Small-Batch Strawberry Jam Without Pectin

Name: Small-Batch Strawberry Jam Without Pectin
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 2 jars
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 450 g fresh strawberries (hulled and halved); 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

40 min 2 jars Easy

All Recipes

Capture summer's sweetness in this easy, three-ingredient strawberry jam recipe without commercial pectin.

Prep

15 min

Cook

25 min

Total

40 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

There's something truly special about making your own strawberry jam at home. With just a few simple ingredients, you can capture the essence of fresh strawberries in a jar, perfect for spreading on toast or swirling into yogurt. This small-batch recipe is ideal for those who love the taste of homemade but don't want to commit to a long canning session. Forget about commercial pectin; this recipe relies on the natural pectin in strawberries and the right amount of sugar to thicken. Plus, you'll learn how to test your jam for the perfect set using the cold-plate method, and how to store it safely, whether in the fridge or pantry.

Instructions

Prepare strawberries

Wash, hull, and halve the strawberries. Mash them slightly with a fork or potato masher for a chunkier texture.

Combine ingredients

In a medium saucepan, combine the mashed strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine.

Cook the jam

Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a boil, stirring frequently. Continue to cook until the mixture thickens and reaches 220°F (105°C) on a candy thermometer, about 20-25 minutes.

Pro tip: Stir constantly to prevent the jam from sticking to the bottom and burning.

Test for set

To test the jam's set, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate. Return it to the freezer for 1 minute, then push the edge with your finger. If it wrinkles, the jam is ready.

Pro tip: If the jam doesn't wrinkle, continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes and test again.

Sterilise the jars

While the jam is cooking, sterilise jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes. Keep them hot until ready to fill.

Pro tip: Sterilising jars ensures the longevity and safety of your jam.

Fill the jars

Ladle the hot jam into the prepared jars, leaving 1/4 inch (0.5 cm) headspace. Wipe the rims clean and seal with lids.

Process the jars

For shelf-stable jam, process the sealed jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. For refrigerator jam, let cool completely and store in the fridge.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Mash strawberries with a fork for a chunkier texture.
Use a candy thermometer to ensure the jam reaches 220°F (105°C).
Chill a small plate in the freezer for the cold-plate test.
To sterilise jars, boil them for 10 minutes before use.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make strawberry jam without pectin?

Use fresh strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook until it thickens and reaches 220°F (105°C). Test set with a cold plate.

What is the water-bath processing time for strawberry jam?

Process sealed jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure shelf stability.

What temperature should jam reach to set?

Jam should reach 220°F (105°C) to achieve the proper set.

How can I tell if my jam is set without a thermometer?

Use the cold-plate test: place a spoonful on a chilled plate, freeze briefly, and check for wrinkles.

How long does homemade strawberry jam last?

Properly processed jars last up to a year on the shelf. Refrigerated jam keeps for about three weeks.

Serving Suggestions

Once your jam has reached the perfect set, you can enjoy it immediately or store it for later. For long-term storage, process the filled jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure they are shelf-stable. If you prefer, you can simply let the jam cool and store it in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. Homemade strawberry jam is a delightful treat that pairs beautifully with a variety of foods. Spread it on fresh bread, add it to desserts, or even use it as a glaze for meats. Whatever your choice, this jam is sure to bring a touch of homemade comfort to your meals.

Nutrition per serving

290

Calories

Protein

Fat

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