Whether you’re following a low-sugar diet or simply looking for a cleaner alternative to store-bought jams, this easy recipe lets you savor sweetness the natural way—all year long.
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What is No-Sugar Added Strawberry Jam?
No-Sugar Added Strawberry Jam is a delectable and healthy twist on the classic preserve. It’s crafted using ripe, juicy strawberries, a natural sweetener like stevia or erythritol (optional), and a pectin specifically designed for low-sugar or no-sugar recipes. This jam allows you to savor the bright, summery flavor of fresh strawberries without the added calories or processed sugar.
The natural sweetness of the strawberries is enhanced, creating a balanced and satisfying taste. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the taste of summer all year round while maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Whether you’re spreading it on your morning toast, mixing it into yogurt, or using it as a topping for desserts, this jam is a guilt-free indulgence you can feel good about. Ready to enjoy the sweet taste of summer without the sugar? Give this recipe a try! You won’t be disappointed.
Key Ingredients for No-Sugar Added Strawberry Jam:
- 6 cups crushed fresh strawberries: Choose ripe, flavorful strawberries for the best results. Hulled and crushed, they form the base of this delicious jam.
- 1/4 cup lemon juice: Adds acidity, which helps with the gelling process and enhances the flavor of the strawberries.
- 1 package (1.75 oz) pectin for low or no-sugar recipes: This type of pectin is essential for jelling the jam without the need for large amounts of sugar. Ensure that the pectin is specifically designed for low or no-sugar recipes, such as Pomona’s Universal Pectin which works for a variety of purposes!
- Optional: Sweetener (Stevia, Erythritol): Use to taste, but consider that the natural sweetness of strawberries alone can be delightful. Start with no sugar and taste as you cook, so you can add little by little to your preference.
How to Make No-Sugar Added Strawberry Jam:
This recipe brings the sweet taste of summer to your table without the added sugar. It’s surprisingly simple to make, starting with fresh, ripe strawberries and a touch of lemon juice for brightness. The star of the show is the low or no-sugar pectin, which ensures the jam sets beautifully. Enjoy the rich, fruity flavor and spread it on your favorite treats! The entire process should take around 45 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Jars: Sanitize your canning jars and keep them hot. You can do this by boiling them in a large pot of water for 10 minutes or running them through a hot cycle in your dishwasher. Keep the jars hot until you’re ready to fill them.
- Prepare the Lids and Rings: Place the canning lids in a small saucepan with water and bring to a simmer. Keep them hot until needed. Rings do not need to be heated.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the crushed strawberries, lemon juice, and half of the pectin powder. Stir well to ensure the pectin is evenly distributed.
- Bring to a Boil: Over medium-high heat, bring the mixture to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down. This is crucial for activating the pectin.
- Add Sweetener (Optional): If using a sweetener, add it now and stir until completely dissolved. Taste the jam and adjust the sweetness as needed. Remember, you can always add more but you can’t take it away!
- Add Remaining Pectin: Stir in the remaining pectin powder. Continue stirring constantly to ensure the pectin is evenly distributed and doesn’t clump.
- Boil Again: Return the mixture to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down. Boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This ensures the pectin is fully activated and the jam will set properly.
- Remove From Heat: Take the pot off the burner. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface of the jam. This helps to create a clearer, more appealing final product.
- Fill the Jars: Using a ladle, carefully pour the hot jam into the sterilized jars, leaving ¼-inch headspace at the top. Ensure that the jar rims are clean by wiping with a damp cloth before placing the lids.
- Seal the Jars: Place a lid on each jar and screw on the ring until fingertip tight. Avoid over-tightening, as this can prevent proper sealing.
- Process in a Water Bath Canner: Place the filled jars in a boiling water bath canner. Ensure that the jars are completely covered with at least 1-2 inches of water. Bring the water to a rolling boil and process for 10 minutes for half-pint or pint jars. Adjust processing time for altitude, if necessary.
- Cool and Check Seals: Turn off the heat and carefully remove the jars from the canner using a jar lifter. Place the jars on a towel-lined surface, allowing space between them for air circulation. Let the jars cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours.
- Check for Seals: After the jars have cooled completely, check the seals by pressing down on the center of each lid. If the lid does not flex or pop, the jar is properly sealed. If a jar did not seal, refrigerate it immediately and use the jam within a few weeks.
- Store the Jam: Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to one year. Enjoy your homemade No-Sugar Added Strawberry Jam on toast, yogurt, or your favorite baked goods!
Final Thoughts:
These No-Sugar Canning Recipes prove that you don’t need refined sugar to create delicious and satisfying preserves. By harnessing the natural sweetness of fruits and using no-sugar-added pectin, you can enjoy homemade jams, jellies, and fruit butters that are both healthy and flavorful. These recipes are perfect for those looking to reduce their sugar intake while still enjoying the pleasures of home canning.
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No-Sugar Canning Recipes FAQs:
Q: Can I use other types of fruit for no-sugar canning?
A: Yes, you can use a variety of fruits such as peaches, blueberries, raspberries, and plums. Just be sure to adjust the amount of pectin and acid (lemon juice or vinegar) accordingly, as different fruits have varying levels of pectin and acidity.
Q: Do I need to use a special type of pectin for no-sugar canning?
A: Yes, it is essential to use a pectin specifically designed for low or no-sugar recipes. Regular pectin requires sugar to gel properly, while low-sugar pectin is formulated to work with limited or no sugar.
Q: How long will no-sugar added canned goods last?
A: When properly processed and sealed, no-sugar added canned goods can last up to one year in a cool, dark place. Always check the seals before using, and discard any jars that show signs of spoilage.