Olivia Carter
There’s nothing quite like the taste of fresh strawberry jam spread over a warm piece of toast. Growing up, my family always made homemade jam during the strawberry season, and it became a beloved tradition that I still continue today. But as I’ve gotten older, I’ve become more conscious of the ingredients I use in my cooking and have been seeking out healthier alternatives. That’s why I’ve fallen in love with this recipe for the best strawberry freezer jam without pectin.
Traditional jam recipes often call for pectin, a naturally occurring substance that helps jam thicken. While pectin is generally safe to consume, some people prefer to avoid it due to the high sugar content that is required to activate its thickening properties. Plus, pectin can be tricky to work with and sometimes leads to a jam that is too firm or doesn’t set properly. This recipe eliminates the need for pectin, allowing you to enjoy the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries without any added sugar or artificial ingredients.
The secret ingredient in this recipe is chia seeds, which act as a natural thickening agent. Chia seeds are packed with fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids, making them a nutritious addition to any dish. When mixed with the strawberries and a touch of honey, the chia seeds absorb the fruit’s liquid and create a thick, spreadable consistency that is perfect for jam. The best part is that the chia seeds don’t alter the taste of the jam, so you can still savor the fresh flavor of the strawberries.
My Homemade Strawberry Freezer Jam Recipe
A Burst of Fresh Strawberry Flavor
What sets my strawberry freezer jam apart from others is its intense and fresh strawberry flavor. By using ripe and juicy strawberries, the jam takes on the natural sweetness and tanginess of the fruit. The absence of pectin allows the strawberries’ flavors to shine through, creating a jam that tastes just like biting into a fresh strawberry.
To enhance the natural flavors, I add a hint of lemon juice to balance the sweetness. This adds a subtle tang that complements the strawberries perfectly. The result is a jam that bursts with bright and vibrant flavors, making it the ideal topping for toast, biscuits, or even ice cream.
No Pectin Needed
One of the main advantages of my strawberry freezer jam recipe is that it doesn’t require pectin. Pectin is a natural thickening agent often used in store-bought jams, but it can alter the taste and texture. By omitting pectin, my recipe creates a jam with a softer and more spreadable consistency, making it easier to enjoy.
Instead of pectin, I rely on a combination of sugar and lemon juice to help thicken the jam naturally. The sugar acts as a preserving agent, while the lemon juice helps activate the natural pectin present in strawberries. This unique method allows the jam to set perfectly without the need for artificial additives.
- 1.5 pounds of fresh strawberries, hulled and crushed
- 2 cups of granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
When preparing the strawberries, it’s important to crush them thoroughly to maximize their flavor and release the natural pectin. This will ensure the jam achieves the perfect consistency and texture that everyone will love.
So, if you’re looking for the best strawberry freezer jam without pectin, try my homemade recipe. You’ll be amazed at how simple and delicious it is, and you’ll never go back to store-bought jams again. Enjoy the burst of fresh strawberry flavor in every bite!
Why Make Strawberry Freezer Jam Without Pectin?
If you’re looking to make a delicious and easy strawberry jam without using pectin, you’ve come to the right place. Making strawberry freezer jam without pectin has its advantages and can produce a fresher and more natural tasting jam.
Preservative-free: One of the main reasons to make strawberry freezer jam without pectin is that it allows you to avoid artificial preservatives. Traditional jams made with pectin often contain additives to extend their shelf life, but making jam without pectin allows you to enjoy a more natural jam without any unnecessary additives.
Control over ingredients: By making your own strawberry freezer jam without pectin, you have complete control over the ingredients that go into your jam. You can choose to use organic strawberries, reduce the amount of sugar added, or even experiment with different flavors by adding herbs or spices to enhance the taste.
Fresher taste: When you make strawberry freezer jam without pectin, you’ll find that the finished product has a fresher taste compared to traditional jams. Pectin can sometimes give jams a slightly artificial or gelled texture, but without it, your homemade jam will have a smoother and more fruit-forward taste.
Simplified process: Making strawberry jam without pectin is also a simpler process as you won’t need to worry about adding and dissolving pectin or following specific cooking times and temperatures. It’s a great option for those who are new to making jam or prefer a more straightforward approach.
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to enjoy strawberry jam with a fresher taste and control over the ingredients, making strawberry freezer jam without pectin is a great choice. Give it a try and savor the natural sweetness of homemade jam.
Ingredients for Strawberry Freezer Jam Without Pectin
As someone who enjoys making homemade preserves, I have experimented with different recipes and techniques over the years. One of my favorite strawberry jam recipes is a freezer jam without pectin. This type of jam is so easy to make and has a fresh and vibrant flavor that I absolutely love. Today, I want to share with you the ingredients that you will need to make this delicious strawberry freezer jam.
Fresh strawberries: The star ingredient of this jam is, of course, fresh strawberries. Look for ripe and juicy strawberries that are sweet and flavorful. The quality and freshness of the strawberries will greatly impact the taste of the jam.
Sugar: Sugar is essential in this recipe as it not only adds sweetness but also helps to preserve the jam. The amount of sugar you will need depends on the sweetness of the strawberries. You can adjust the sugar amount to suit your taste preferences.
Lemon juice: A little bit of lemon juice is added to the jam to enhance the flavor of the strawberries and bring a hint of acidity. It also acts as a natural preservative.
Water: Water is used to create a syrup with the sugar and lemon juice. This syrup helps to bind the jam together and give it a perfect texture.
Vanilla extract: I like to add a touch of vanilla extract to my strawberry freezer jam to add an extra layer of flavor. This is completely optional, but I find that it elevates the taste of the jam and makes it even more delicious.
- Fresh strawberries
- Sugar
- Lemon juice
- Water
- Vanilla extract (optional)
With these simple and readily available ingredients, you can create a tasty strawberry freezer jam without pectin. The combination of fresh strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and a little bit of water and vanilla extract results in a jam that is bursting with flavor and perfect for spreading on toast, pancakes, or using in various recipes. Give it a try and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade strawberry jam!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Strawberry Freezer Jam Without Pectin
As someone who loves homemade jams and jellies, I have always been on the lookout for simple recipes that don’t require pectin. Today, I am excited to share with you my step-by-step instructions for making delicious strawberry freezer jam without pectin.
Gather Fresh Strawberries: The first step in making strawberry freezer jam without pectin is to gather fresh, ripe strawberries. Look for berries that are bright red in color and have a sweet aroma. Wash the strawberries thoroughly and remove the stems.
Mash the Strawberries: After washing the strawberries, place them in a large bowl and use a potato masher or a fork to mash them until you achieve your desired consistency. Some people prefer their jam to have small chunks of strawberries while others prefer a smoother texture.
Add Sugar: Once the strawberries are mashed, add sugar to the bowl. The ratio of strawberries to sugar is usually 1:1, but you can adjust the amount of sugar based on your personal preference and the sweetness of the strawberries. Mix the strawberries and sugar together until well combined.
Let the Mixture Sit: After mixing the strawberries and sugar, let the mixture sit for about 15-20 minutes. This will allow the sugar to dissolve and the flavors to meld together.
Store in Containers: Pour the strawberry mixture into clean, airtight containers. I prefer using glass jars as they are freezer-safe and easy to clean. Make sure to leave some room at the top of the containers to allow for expansion during freezing.
Freeze and Enjoy: Place the containers of strawberry freezer jam in the freezer and let them set for at least 24 hours before using. The jam can be stored in the freezer for up to 6 months. When you’re ready to enjoy the jam, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. Spread the delicious homemade strawberry jam on toast, pancakes, or use it as a topping for desserts.
Making homemade strawberry freezer jam without pectin is a fun and rewarding process. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can enjoy the taste of summer all year round. Give it a try and see how easy it is to create your own delicious jam without the need for pectin!
Tips for Storing and Using Strawberry Freezer Jam Without Pectin
Once you’ve made your delicious strawberry freezer jam without pectin, it’s important to know how to store it properly and get the most out of your homemade jam. Here are some tips to help you enjoy your jam for as long as possible:
1. Storing the Jam:
- Transfer the jam into clean, sterilized glass jars or plastic containers with airtight lids.
- Leave a small amount of headspace at the top of the jar to allow for expansion during freezing.
- Label each container with the date and contents to keep track of freshness.
- Store the jam in the freezer to maintain its consistency and preserve flavor.
2. Thawing and Using the Jam:
- When you’re ready to use the jam, remove a jar from the freezer and place it in the refrigerator overnight to thaw.
- Once thawed, the jam can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
- Use the strawberry freezer jam as a spread on toast, biscuits, or pancakes.
- Add it to yogurt, oatmeal, or smoothies for an extra burst of fruit flavor.
- Get creative and use the jam as a topping for desserts like ice cream or cheesecake.
3. Variation and Customization:
If you want to experiment and customize your strawberry freezer jam, you can try adding different fruits or spices to create unique flavors. Some popular additions include lemon zest, cinnamon, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist.
Now that you have these tips, you can confidently make, store, and enjoy your strawberry freezer jam without pectin. Get creative with how you use it, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors to make it your own!
10 Best strawberry freezer jam without pectin
Hoosier Hill Farm Fruit Pectin, 6LB (Pack of 1)
Features
| Color | White |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Size | 96 Ounce (Pack of 1) |
- Hoosier Hill Farm Fruit Pectin is a specially formulated dry blend that’s perfect for thickening jams and jellies. It is a naturally occurring thickening agent found in many fruits.
- Many recipes featuring pectin use the ingredient to add a stable, slightly gelled consistency to fillings, jams, and jellies when cooked.
- This sweet and fruity powder is the perfect pantry staple. Use it for thickening, canning, and preserving in a variety of recipes.
- How to Use Fruit Pectin: Mix our powdered fruit pectin into jams and pie fillings to help your preserves thicken, or try mixing it with a fruit puree to make jelly candies.
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry place. We do not recommend refrigerating or freezing powdered pectin.
- Packaged in a facility that processes dairy, soy, peanuts, and wheat products.
Weaver's Country Market Bulk Fruit Pectin Powder for Jam and Jellies - Made in USA Pectin for Canning Jelly, Cost Effective Pectin for Canning Jam (5 Lb....
Features
| Part Number | 127-8617 |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Size | 80 Ounce (Pack of 1) |
- Bulk Fruit Pectin - Our fruit pectin helps jams and jellies set properly, ensuring the perfect texture and consistency in your homemade preserves.
- Stock Up & Save - Buy powdered pectin in bulk to reduce costs and have plenty of pectin mix on hand for all your jam and jelly creations.
- Make Your Own Jam & Jellies - Craft jams and jellies with our organic pectin exactly how you like them, using fresh ingredients for a delicious and customizable taste.
- Cost-Effective, Made in the USA - Enjoy budget-friendly jam and jelly making with sure jell pectin US-made ingredients, without sacrificing quality and supporting local jobs.
- Usage Instruction on Product Label - Simple instructions on the freezer pectin label ensure successful jam-making for beginners and experienced cooks alike. May be refrigerated to prolong shelf life
Sure Jell Premium Fruit Pectin, 1.75 Oz (Pack of 24)
Features
| Part Number | 118783 |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Size | 1.75 Ounce (Pack of 24) |
Ball 71065 5.4 Oz Pectin Flex Batch Mix (Pack of 12)
Features
| Part Number | 1440071065 |
| Model | 1440071065 |
| Size | 12 Count (Pack of 1) |
- Flex batch makes up-to 22 half pints
- Pectin is a natural, jelling ingredient derived from apple and citrus fruits, however, not all pectins are created equal
- Now Includes Reduced Sugar Recipe For Healthier Jam
- It Has Been Reformulated For Improved Flavor And Performance
- Capture The Freshness And Flavor Of Handpicked Fruit Anytime
Cornaby's Jam in a Jiffy - Instant Fresh or Freezer, No Cook, Low Sugar Jam Mix, Pack of 8, Make Delicious, Low Sugar, Low Calorie Homemade Jam, 18 Oz
Features
| Size | 1.12 Pound (Pack of 8) |
- DELICIOUS JAM: Jam in a Jiffy is a revolutionary, low sugar, instant fresh fruit JAM & TOPPING mix! Now, with a daily dose of VITAMIN-C! It’s the easiest way to make delicious, low-sugar, low-calorie homemade jam and dessert toppings!
- INGREDIENTS: Non-GMO Cane Sugar, Non-GMO corn starch, pectin, citric acid, Non-GMO Xanthan gum, potassium sorbate.
- LOW SUGAR JAM: Traditional jams have more sugar and sweetened syrups added into the making of jams and jellies, but our low sugar jam contains all natural ingredients that deliver excellent taste and guilt-free eating.
- INSTANT JAM MIX: With one pouch of Jam in a Jiffy, two pounds of fresh or frozen fruit and five minutes you can make six cups of amazing freezer jam. Includes sweeteners, citric acid and thickeners - just add fruit. No Cooking required. 18 calories per serving.
- DIRECTIONS: Prepare two pounds of any soft fruit (strawberries, raspberries, peaches, etc.) by peeling, washing and crushing in a medium sized bowl. Add Jam in a Jiffy mix and stir well. It is designed for use by the most experienced chef to the most inexperienced teenager. Can be refrigerated for 3-weeks; Frozen for 18-months
FAQ:
What is the best strawberry freezer jam recipe without pectin?
One of the best strawberry freezer jam recipes without pectin is to combine mashed strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved. Then, bring it to a boil and let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until it thickens like jam. Let the mixture cool before transferring it to jars and freezing.
Can I use honey instead of sugar in my strawberry freezer jam without pectin?
Yes, you can use honey as a substitute for sugar in your strawberry freezer jam without pectin. Keep in mind that honey is sweeter than sugar, so you’ll need to adjust the amount accordingly. You may also need to cook the mixture for a bit longer to achieve the desired consistency since honey doesn’t provide the same thickening properties as sugar.
Conclusion
In conclusion, making strawberry freezer jam without pectin is a simple and delicious way to preserve the taste of fresh strawberries. By using natural sweeteners like honey or sugar, this homemade jam captures the true essence of the strawberries while ensuring a longer shelf life. The absence of pectin also makes this recipe accessible to those with dietary restrictions. Whether spread on toast, mixed into yogurt, or used as a topping for desserts, this strawberry freezer jam is sure to become a favorite in any kitchen. With its vibrant color, intense strawberry flavor, and ease of preparation, this recipe proves that sometimes the simplest methods yield the most fantastic results. So why not give it a try and taste the difference for yourself?
