Easy Homemade Strawberry Jam No Pectin Recipe for Perfect Spread
A simple and quick homemade strawberry jam recipe that requires no commercial pectin, using fresh strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and slow simmering to achieve a perfect set and delicious flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: About 4 cups (approximately 16 servings of 1 tablespoon each) 1x
- Category: Preserves
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups fresh strawberries (about 600g), hulled and halved
- 2 cups granulated sugar (400g)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (30ml)
- 1/4 cup water (60ml)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)
Instructions
- Wash strawberries gently under cold water. Hull and halve them (about 10 minutes).
- In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and water. Let sit for 10-15 minutes to draw out juices.
- Place the pan over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring often and breaking down strawberries, for 25-35 minutes until thick and glossy.
- Test for set by placing a spoonful on a cold plate; if it wrinkles when pushed, jam is ready. If not, continue simmering and test every 5 minutes.
- If using, stir in vanilla extract or chia seeds and simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
- Pour hot jam into sterilized glass jars, leaving about 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe rims and seal tightly.
- Let jars cool to room temperature, then refrigerate. Jam will thicken as it cools.
Notes
Use ripe strawberries for best natural pectin and flavor. Slow simmering is key to prevent burning and achieve the right thickness. Test jam set on a cold plate frequently. Optional chia seeds can be added as a natural thickener. Sterilize jars before use to extend shelf life. Jam thickens further as it cools.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon (20g)
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 12.5
- Carbohydrates: 13
- Fiber: 0.5
Keywords: strawberry jam, homemade jam, no pectin jam, easy jam recipe, strawberry preserves, natural jam, vegan jam, gluten-free jam