Easy Small Batch Strawberry Jam Recipe without Pectin

Ditch the store-bought jam and impress your taste buds with our 3-ingredient, small batch strawberry jam recipe without pectin! Learn the secret techniques for avoiding burning and creating a versatile spread without any added preservatives or artificial ingredients in this must-read recipe. If you love the taste of fresh, homemade strawberry jam, but don't want to make a huge batch, this small batch strawberry jam recipe is perfect for you.

Strawberry Jam Recipe Ingredients :

1 lb of fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped

1 ½ cups of granulated sugar

2 tablespoons of lemon juice

Equipment needed to Make Strawberry Jam Recipe:

• Potato masher
• 12 oz Mason jar
• Candy thermometer

Instructions To Make strawberry jam recipe without pectin:

Start by washing and hulling your strawberries. Chop them into small pieces and place them in a medium-sized pot or jam pan.

strawberry jam recipe

Add 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice to the pot. The acidity in the lemon juice will help to thicken the jam without the use of pectin.

Simmer the strawberries over medium heat, stirring continuously for 10 minutes until they become tender. Smush them with a potato masher. Turn up the heat to medium-high and keep stirring the mixture for an additional 15 minutes or until it reaches a temperature of 220°F (measured with a candy thermometer). This will ensure that the jam reaches its perfect consistency.

Once your jam is done, you can transfer it to clean and sterile jars. Be sure to leave some headspace, about ¼ inch, to allow for expansion during cooling. You can also store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.

How to tell if your jam is ready

Not sure if your jam is done? No worries! You can check by taking a small spoonful and spreading it on a plate. Wait for a minute and then gently prod it with your finger. If it holds its shape, then it's ready to go.

Another way to check if your strawberry jam recipe is ready is by placing a plate in the freezer before you start cooking. When you think the jam is ready, drop a spoonful of it on the cold plate. Let it sit for a minute then push it gently with your finger. If the jam wrinkles and holds its shape, it's ready. If the jam is still runny, it needs to cook for a little longer. This method is called the "plate test" and it's commonly used in making jams, marmalades, and jellies.

How to keep your jam from burning

Preventing burning is crucial when making jam without pectin. The jam can easily burn if it is overcooked or if the heat is too high. To avoid this, it's important to stir the jam frequently. Keep a close watch on the cooking process and take it off the heat as soon as it reaches 220 degrees Fahrenheit, as this is the ideal temperature for jam to achieve its desired consistency.

If the jam burns, unfortunately, it will be inedible. It will have a burnt smell and a harsh taste. But if you notice that the jam is starting to burn, remove it from the heat immediately and carefully pour it into a heatproof bowl. Let it cool completely and then transfer it to the trash.

Here are some tips and tricks for making strawberry jam Recipe without pectin

• Do not use over-ripened strawberries: un-ripened strawberries have the highest natural pectin content, which will help thicken the jam.
• Add lemon juice: Lemon juice contains natural pectin and will help thicken the jam.
• Cook the jam to the right temperature: Using a candy thermometer, cook the jam to 220 degrees Fahrenheit to reach the proper consistency.
• Stir frequently: Stir the jam frequently while cooking to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
• Test the jam for doneness: To test if the jam is done, place a small spoonful on a plate and let it cool. If the jam wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it is done.
• Store it properly: Once the jam is done, let it cool completely before storing it in a sterilized jar with a tight-fitting lid.

Ideas for using your strawberry jam recipe

• On toast: This is the classic way to enjoy jam. Spread some on your toast for a delicious breakfast or snack.
• In sandwiches: Use it as a spread for a PB&J, grilled cheese, or any other sandwich for added sweetness and flavor.
• As a topping for ice cream: Add a spoonful of jam to your favorite vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a delicious and easy dessert.
• On pancakes or waffles: Spread some jam on top of pancakes or waffles for a sweet and fruity breakfast treat.
• In yogurt: Mix some jam into plain or vanilla yogurt for a sweet and healthy snack.
• As a filling for cakes, cookies, or pastries: Use it as a filling for homemade cakes, cookies, or pastries for added sweetness and flavor.
• As a glaze for meats: Mix it with a little bit of balsamic and brush it on chicken or pork for a sweet and savory dish.
• In a cocktail: Mix it with a little bit of vodka for a sweet and fruity cocktail.

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