Simple Strawberry Jam with Just 3 Ingredients Recipe
This simple and delicious strawberry jam recipe requires just three ingredients and no pectin. Made with fresh strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice, it’s easy to prepare and perfect for spreading on toast, adding to desserts, or gifting to friends.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: About 1 to 1.5 cups of strawberry jam
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lb Fresh Strawberries
- 1 Cup Sugar
- 1 Tablespoon Lemon Juice
Instructions
- Prepare the Strawberries: Wash the fresh strawberries thoroughly and remove the stems. Cut the strawberries into halves or quarters depending on their size to ensure even cooking and easier mashing.
- Cook the Mixture: In a large saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. As the mixture heats, the strawberries will release their juices and the sugar will dissolve.
- Mash and Simmer: Use a potato masher or fork to gently crush the strawberries as they cook. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer. Continue stirring occasionally to prevent burning. Simmer until the jam thickens and reaches the desired consistency; this can take approximately 20-30 minutes.
- Test the Jam: To test if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful onto a chilled plate. If it gels and wrinkles when pushed with your finger, it is done. If not, continue to simmer for a few more minutes and test again.
- Cool and Store: Remove the jam from heat and let it cool slightly. Pour into sterilized jars, seal, and refrigerate. The jam will continue to thicken as it cools and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
Notes
- Ensure your jars are properly sterilized to extend the shelf life of your jam.
- You can adjust the sugar quantity depending on the sweetness of your strawberries and your personal preference.
- Lemon juice not only adds flavor but also helps in preservation and setting the jam.
- This recipe does not require pectin; the natural pectin in strawberries together with lemon juice helps the jam to set.
- If you prefer a smoother jam, you can blend the mixture briefly before cooking.
