Low Sugar No Sugar Strawberry Jam Recipe

Strawberries: Fresh strawberries are the star of this recipe, providing natural sweetness and flavor.

Water: Used to help dissolve the pectin and create the right consistency.

Lemon juice: Adds a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness and helps in the gelling process.

Pectin: A natural thickening agent that allows the jam to set without the need for large amounts of sugar.

When making strawberry jam, ensure that the pectin is fully dissolved by gradually stirring it into the strawberry mixture before bringing it to a boil. This helps to avoid clumping and ensures a smooth consistency. Additionally, always use freshly squeezed lemon juice as it provides the necessary acidity to help the jam set properly and enhances the flavor of the strawberries.

• hulled and mashed strawberries - Substitute with hulled and mashed raspberries: Raspberries have a similar texture and tartness, making them a good alternative for a berry jam.

• water - Substitute with unsweetened apple juice: Apple juice adds a natural sweetness and additional flavor without adding sugar.

• freshly squeezed lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidity and tanginess, which helps in setting the jam.

• low or no sugar needed type pectin - Substitute with chia seeds: Chia seeds can act as a natural thickener and add a slight crunch, making them a healthy alternative to pectin.

• Ensure your strawberry jam has cooled to room temperature before storing or freezing.
• For short-term storage, transfer the jam into clean, airtight containers. Mason jars work wonderfully for this purpose.
• Store the jars in the refrigerator. Your low sugar strawberry jam will stay fresh for up to three weeks.
• For long-term storage, consider freezing the jam. Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• Label each container with the date of preparation to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to use, thaw the frozen jam in the refrigerator overnight.
• Avoid refreezing the jam once it has been thawed to maintain the best texture and flavor.
• If you prefer, you can also use a vacuum sealer to extend the shelf life of your no sugar strawberry jam even further.
• Remember to always use clean utensils when scooping out the jam to prevent contamination and extend its shelf life.

• Place the jar of strawberry jam in a bowl of warm water for about 10-15 minutes. This gentle method will gradually bring the jam to room temperature without altering its texture or flavor.
• Scoop the desired amount of jam into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 10-15 seconds, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the pectin to break down.
• For a stovetop method, spoon the jam into a small saucepan. Warm over low heat, stirring frequently until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat more precisely and prevents scorching.
• If you prefer a more traditional approach, place the jam in a heatproof bowl and set it over a pot of simmering water (double boiler method). Stir occasionally until the jam is warmed through. This gentle, indirect heat helps maintain the jam's consistency and flavor.
• For a quick fix, spread the jam on a piece of toast or pancakes and let the residual heat from the food warm the jam naturally. This method is perfect for a speedy breakfast or snack.

• Large pot: Used to combine and cook the strawberries, water, lemon juice, and pectin.

• Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring the strawberries, water, and lemon juice.

• Measuring spoons: Needed for measuring the lemon juice and pectin.

• Masher: Used to mash the strawberries to the desired consistency.

• Stirring spoon: Necessary for stirring the mixture constantly while it cooks.

• Ladle: Used to transfer the hot jam into the sterilized canning jars.

• Canning jars: Sterilized jars to store the jam.

• Lids: Used to seal the canning jars.

• Boiling water bath canner: Used to process the filled jars to ensure they are properly sealed.

• Jar lifter: Helps safely remove the hot jars from the boiling water bath.

• Towel: Used to wipe the rims of the jars before sealing them.

• Timer: Essential for timing the boiling process accurately.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Hull and mash the strawberries ahead of time to save prep time.

Use a food processor: Quickly mash strawberries using a food processor instead of mashing by hand.

Sterilize jars early: Sterilize your canning jars while preparing the jam mixture to streamline the process.

Measure ingredients beforehand: Have all ingredients measured and ready to go before you start cooking.

Use a timer: Set a timer for the boiling and processing steps to ensure you don’t overcook or undercook the jam.