The Only Strawberry Jam Recipe I Trust – Full of Flavor and No Thickeners
If you’ve ever wanted to make homemade strawberry jam without added thickeners like pectin, this is the perfect recipe for you. This jam is rich, bursting with the natural sweetness of strawberries, and has the perfect consistency without needing any artificial ingredients.
Why This Strawberry Jam Recipe Works
Many store-bought jams rely on pectin or cornstarch to thicken, but this recipe lets the fruit shine naturally. The secret? Cooking it slowly to allow the natural pectin in strawberries to develop, giving you a thick, luscious jam with deep, concentrated flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 kg fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 700 g granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp lemon zest (optional, for extra flavor)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Strawberries
Wash the strawberries thoroughly, remove the stems, and chop them into small pieces. If you prefer a chunkier jam, cut them in halves or quarters.
2. Macerate the Strawberries
In a large bowl, mix the strawberries with sugar and lemon juice. Let them sit for at least 1-2 hours (or overnight in the fridge). This process helps release the juices and intensifies the flavor.
3. Cook the Jam
- Transfer the strawberry mixture to a large, heavy-bottomed pot.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Check for Doneness
To test if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it’s done. If it’s too runny, continue simmering for a few more minutes.
5. Store the Jam
- Once the jam reaches the desired consistency, remove it from heat.
- Let it cool for 5 minutes, then transfer it into sterilized glass jars.
- Seal the jars and let them cool completely before storing.
Tips for the Best Strawberry Jam
- Use ripe strawberries – They have more natural sugars and a stronger flavor.
- Don’t skip the lemon juice – It helps balance the sweetness and enhances the natural pectin.
- Stir frequently – This prevents the jam from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
How to Use This Homemade Jam
This jam is perfect for spreading on toast, mixing into yogurt, topping pancakes, or even using as a filling for cakes and pastries.
Once you try this homemade strawberry jam, you won’t go back to store-bought! Enjoy the pure taste of fresh strawberries in every spoonful.