Strawberry Jam Without Pectin Recipe

Introduction

Making strawberry jam without pectin is easier than you might think. This simple recipe uses fresh strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice to create a naturally thick and flavorful jam that’s perfect for toast, desserts, or gifts.

Ingredients

• 4 cups hulled and quartered strawberries (approx. 1 pound or 500 grams)
• ¼ cup lemon juice (60 ml)
• 2 cups granulated white sugar (400 grams)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Place the strawberries and lemon juice in a large microwave-safe bowl (16 cups/4 liters capacity). Microwave on high for 5 minutes until the fruit starts to release its aroma.
2. Step 2: Add the sugar to the warm strawberries and stir well to dissolve the sugar.
3. Step 3: Return the bowl to the microwave and cook on high for 15 minutes. Stop every 5 minutes to stir and check the jam. It should reach a full rolling boil—be careful not to let it boil over.
4. Step 4: Once cooked, pour the hot jam into sterilized jars and seal with sterilized lids to preserve.

Tips & Variations

• If you prefer a smoother jam, microwave the fruit a bit longer before adding sugar to help it break down further.
• For added flavor, stir in a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a handful of fresh mint leaves after cooking.
• Use ripe, fragrant strawberries for the best flavor and natural sweetness.

Storage

Store sealed jars of strawberry jam in a cool, dark place for up to 3 months. Once opened, keep the jam refrigerated and consume within 2 to 3 weeks. Reheat gently if a softer consistency is desired before serving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries to make this jam?

Yes, frozen strawberries work well. Thaw them first and drain excess liquid before starting the recipe to avoid a runny jam.

Why doesn’t my jam set properly without pectin?

Jam thickens through the natural pectin in fruit and sugar concentration. Using ripe fruit and cooking the jam until it reaches a full rolling boil helps achieve the desired set.

Strawberry Jam Without Pectin Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 87 reviews

• Author: Elara
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 3 cups of strawberry jam 1x

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Description

This simple and quick strawberry jam recipe uses fresh strawberries, lemon juice, and sugar, cooked in the microwave to create a delicious homemade jam without the need for commercial pectin. Perfect for preserving the natural sweetness and flavor of strawberries, this method is convenient and ideal for small batches.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Ingredients

• 4 cups hulled and quartered strawberries (approximately 1 pound or 500 grams)
• ¼ cup lemon juice (60 ml)
• 2 cups granulated white sugar (400 grams)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Strawberries: Place the hulled and quartered strawberries in a large microwave-safe bowl (with at least 16 cups or 4 liters capacity) and add the lemon juice. Microwave on high for 5 minutes until the strawberries start to release their aroma.
2. Add Sugar and Stir: Add the granulated white sugar to the cooked strawberries and stir thoroughly to dissolve the sugar. This step is crucial for the jam’s texture.
3. Cook the Jam: Return the mixture to the microwave and cook on high for 15 minutes total. Stop every 5 minutes to stir and check the jam, ensuring it reaches a full rolling boil. Be attentive to prevent the jam from boiling over.
4. Optional Additional Cooking for Smoothness: If you prefer a smoother jam, extend the cooking time slightly to allow the fruit to break down further before adding sugar, but after adding sugar, the fruit will not break down much more.
5. Jar the Jam: Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars and seal immediately with sterilized lids to preserve freshness and prevent contamination.

Notes

• Use a large microwave-safe bowl to prevent boiling over during cooking.
• Stirring every 5 minutes ensures even cooking and prevents burning.
• For smoother jam, cook strawberries slightly longer before adding sugar.
• Sterilizing jars and lids is essential for safe preservation.
• Store jam in a cool, dark place and refrigerate after opening.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Condiment
• Method: Microwave Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: strawberry jam, homemade jam, no pectin jam, microwave jam, easy strawberry preserves