Olivia Carter
Are you looking for a healthy and delicious way to enjoy the taste of fresh strawberries all year round? Look no further! In this article, we will guide you through the process of making homemade strawberry freezer jam with stevia. Not only is this jam low in sugar, but it also preserves the natural taste and vibrant color of strawberries.
Stevia, a natural sweetener derived from the stevia plant, is a perfect alternative to traditional sugar. It is known for its zero-calorie content and low glycemic index, making it a great choice for those watching their sugar intake or managing diabetes. By using stevia instead of sugar, you can satisfy your sweet tooth without the guilt.
Making strawberry freezer jam with stevia is incredibly simple and requires just a few ingredients. You will need fresh strawberries, stevia powder or liquid, lemon juice, and pectin. The pectin is necessary to help the jam set and achieve the perfect jelly-like consistency. Within a short amount of time, you’ll have a batch of homemade jam that you can enjoy on toast, muffins, or mixed into yogurt.
So, if you’re ready to indulge in the taste of summer all year long, gather your ingredients and let’s get started on making strawberry freezer jam with stevia. Your taste buds will thank you!
Preparation: Gathering Ingredients and Supplies
Before making strawberry freezer jam with stevia, you will need to gather a few key ingredients and supplies. Here is a list of what you will need:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of fresh strawberries
- 1 cup of stevia powder
- 3 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 1 packet of pectin
Supplies:
- A large mixing bowl
- A potato masher or fork
- A saucepan
- A whisk
- Airtight containers for storing the jam
Make sure to have all the ingredients and supplies ready before you start making the strawberry freezer jam. This will make the process easier and more efficient.
Choosing the Right Strawberries
When making strawberry freezer jam with Stevia, it’s essential to select the right type of strawberries to ensure the best flavor and texture. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect strawberries:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Look for vibrant red color strawberries without any green or white spots, as this indicates ripeness. The strawberries should also be firm and plump. |
| 2 | Avoid strawberries that are overly soft or mushy, as these may not have the best flavor and could affect the texture of the jam. |
| 3 | Smell the strawberries to check for a sweet, fragrant aroma. The scent should be strong and fresh. |
| 4 | Consider the size of the strawberries. While larger strawberries may be visually appealing, smaller ones tend to have a more concentrated flavor. |
| 5 | Organic strawberries are a great choice if you want to avoid pesticides and other chemicals. They may have a shorter shelf life, so be sure to use them promptly. |
By selecting the right strawberries, you can enhance the overall taste and quality of your strawberry freezer jam made with Stevia. Enjoy the natural sweetness and freshness of the strawberries while keeping the sugar content low using Stevia as a sweetener.
Cleaning and Prepping the Strawberries
Before making strawberry freezer jam, it’s important to clean and prep the strawberries properly. This ensures that your jam will have a fresh and delicious taste. Follow these steps to clean and prep your strawberries:
Gather the Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 pounds of fresh strawberries
- 1/4 cup of stevia
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1 package of powdered pectin
- Freezer-safe jars or containers
Wash the Strawberries
Start by rinsing the strawberries under cold running water. Gently rub each strawberry to remove any dirt or debris. Make sure to remove the green stems and hulls.
Pat Dry
Use a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to gently dry the strawberries. It’s important to dry them thoroughly to prevent any excess water from diluting the jam.
Cut the Strawberries
Once the strawberries are dry, cut them into small pieces. You can either dice them or mash them with a potato masher, depending on your preference. Remember, the size of the pieces will affect the texture of the jam.
Measure the Strawberries
Measure 2 cups of the cut strawberries and place them in a bowl. This will be the main ingredient for your strawberry freezer jam.
Note: If you have extra strawberries, you can always save them for later use or enjoy them as a snack.
Now that you’ve cleaned and prepped the strawberries, you’re ready to move on to the next steps of making strawberry freezer jam with stevia!
Making the Stevia Syrup
To make the stevia syrup for the strawberry freezer jam, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup of water
- 1 tablespoon of stevia powder
Here’s how to make the stevia syrup:
- In a small saucepan, bring the water to a boil.
- Once the water is boiling, remove it from the heat.
- Add the stevia powder to the hot water and stir until it is completely dissolved.
- Let the stevia syrup cool down to room temperature.
Once the stevia syrup has cooled down, it will be ready to use in the strawberry freezer jam recipe. The stevia syrup replaces the sugar typically used in traditional jam recipes and provides a natural sweetener alternative. It’s important to note that the sweetness level may vary depending on the brand of stevia powder you use, so feel free to adjust the amount of stevia to your taste preferences. Now that you have made the stevia syrup, you can move on to the next step in making your delicious strawberry freezer jam!
Combining the Strawberries and Stevia Syrup
Once the stevia syrup has cooled, it’s time to combine it with the strawberries to create the perfect sweet and tangy jam. Follow these simple steps to ensure your jam turns out delicious:
- Wash and hull the strawberries, removing the stems and any damaged spots.
- Slice the strawberries into small, bite-sized pieces. You can also mash them slightly with a fork for a smoother consistency.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced strawberries and the cooled stevia syrup. Stir gently to coat the strawberries evenly.
- Allow the mixture to sit for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- If desired, use a potato masher or immersion blender to further break down the strawberries and create a smoother jam consistency.
At this point, your strawberry freezer jam is ready to be transferred into jars and stored in the freezer for future enjoyment. Remember to leave some room at the top of the jars for expansion during freezing.
Freezing and Storing the Jam
Once you have prepared your strawberry freezer jam with stevia, it’s time to think about how to store it properly so that it can be enjoyed for months to come. Freezing the jam is the best option to ensure its freshness and taste.
1. Choosing the Right Containers
When it comes to freezing jam, it’s important to use the right containers to prevent freezer burn and maintain the quality of the jam. Opt for airtight containers made of BPA-free plastic or glass. Mason jars are a popular choice, as they are freezer-safe and provide a tight seal.
2. Filling the Containers
Fill the containers with the strawberry jam, leaving about an inch of headspace at the top. This allows for expansion as the jam freezes. Be careful not to overfill the jars, as the jam may expand and cause the lids to pop off during freezing.
3. Labeling and Dating
Before placing the containers in the freezer, make sure to label them with the name of the jam and the date it was made. This will help you keep track of how long the jam has been stored and ensure that you use the oldest ones first.
4. Freezing the Jam
Place the containers in the freezer, ensuring they are standing upright to prevent leakage. Leave them undisturbed for at least 24 hours to allow the jam to freeze completely. After that, you can organize them in the freezer as needed.
5. Defrosting and Using
To use the strawberry freezer jam, simply move a container from the freezer to the refrigerator a few hours before you plan to enjoy it. The jam will thaw gradually and be ready to use. Once thawed, consume it within a week for the best taste.
By following these steps, you can safely freeze and store your homemade strawberry freezer jam with stevia, ensuring that you always have a delicious and healthy treat on hand.
Enjoying Your Homemade Strawberry Freezer Jam with Stevia
Once you have made your delicious strawberry freezer jam with stevia, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor! Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your homemade jam:
Spread it on Toast or Bagels
One of the simplest and most satisfying ways to enjoy your strawberry freezer jam is to spread it on a slice of toasted bread or a fresh bagel. The sweet and tangy flavors of the jam complement the crispy texture of the bread or bagel perfectly. It’s a delightful treat for breakfast or a quick snack.
Pair it with Yogurt
If you are looking for a healthy and refreshing snack, try mixing a spoonful of your homemade strawberry freezer jam into a bowl of plain or vanilla yogurt. The jam adds a burst of fruity flavor to the creamy yogurt, making it a perfect combination for a light breakfast or an afternoon pick-me-up.
Make PB&J Sandwiches
The classic peanut butter and jelly sandwich is a timeless favorite for both kids and adults. Take your PB&J game to the next level by using your homemade strawberry freezer jam with stevia instead of regular jelly. The natural sweetness of the strawberries combined with the nuttiness of the peanut butter creates a heavenly combination that will leave you wanting more.
Create Sweet Treats
Your homemade strawberry freezer jam can also be used as a versatile ingredient in various desserts. Add a dollop of jam on top of your favorite ice cream flavor, swirl it into homemade yogurt popsicles, or use it as a filling for thumbprint cookies. The possibilities are endless, and you can let your creativity shine in the kitchen.
Remember to store your homemade strawberry freezer jam in an airtight container in the freezer to ensure its freshness. Once thawed, it will last for approximately two weeks in the refrigerator. Enjoy this sweet and satisfying treat while it lasts!
FAQ
What ingredients do I need to make strawberry freezer jam with stevia?
To make strawberry freezer jam with stevia, you will need fresh strawberries, stevia sweetener, pectin, lemon juice, and water.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries to make freezer jam. Just make sure to thaw and drain them before using in the recipe.
Is stevia a healthier alternative to sugar?
Stevia sweetener is often considered a healthier alternative to sugar because it has zero calories and does not raise blood sugar levels like regular sugar. However, it is important to use stevia in moderation as it can have a slightly bitter aftertaste.
How long does strawberry freezer jam with stevia last in the freezer?
When stored properly in an airtight container, strawberry freezer jam with stevia can last up to 1 year in the freezer.
Can I use a different fruit instead of strawberries?
Yes, you can use different fruits like raspberries or blueberries to make freezer jam with stevia. Just adjust the amount of stevia sweetener and lemon juice to taste.
