If you are looking for a fresh, flavorful way to enjoy your strawberries all year round, this Healthy Strawberry Jam Recipe is an absolute must-try. Packed with natural sweetness from raw honey, a zesty hint from lemon, and bursting with the fresh essence of ripe strawberries, this jam is delightfully simple yet deeply satisfying. It offers a wholesome alternative to store-bought jams, free from added sugars and preservatives, making it perfect for spreading on your morning toast or dolloping onto your favorite baked goods. Once you make this jam, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a vital role. Fresh strawberries provide vibrant color and a natural sweetness, raw honey lends gentle sweetness and a silky texture, and lemon zest plus juice bring a refreshing brightness that balances the flavors perfectly.
- 2 pounds fresh strawberries: Choose ripe, fragrant berries for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- 1/2 cup raw honey: Acts as a natural sweetener with a rich floral hint and smooth texture.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Adds a burst of citrus aroma that lifts the whole jam.
- 2-3 tablespoons lemon juice: Provides acidity to enhance flavor and help with preservation.
How to Make Healthy Strawberry Jam Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Combine the Ingredients
The first step is all about prepping your fresh strawberries—wash them well, remove the leafy tops, and cut them into halves or quarters. This ensures they cook evenly and release their juices beautifully. Toss the strawberries with raw honey, lemon zest, and freshly squeezed lemon juice in a pot. This mixture creates the base that will turn into your luscious jam.
Step 2: Cook and Mash the Strawberries
Place the pot over medium heat and cover it for 10 minutes to allow the strawberries to soften and release their natural sweetness. After this initial cooking, uncover the pot and mash the berries gently using a wooden spoon or potato masher. This step breaks down the fruit, helping to achieve that classic jam texture you love.
Step 3: Thicken the Jam
Let the strawberries continue to cook uncovered for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmer allows the mixture to thicken and develop deep flavor. If you notice it’s still a bit watery after 20 minutes, just keep cooking, stirring frequently, until the jam reaches a consistency that coats the back of a spoon. This patience pays off with a perfectly set jam.
Step 4: Cool and Store
Once your jam has thickened, transfer it to a clean glass jar and allow it to cool to room temperature before refrigerating. This jam keeps well chilled and will be ready whenever you want to add a sweet, fruity touch to your favorite dishes.
How to Serve Healthy Strawberry Jam Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of powdered sugar can make your jam look as delightful as it tastes. These simple touches add visual appeal and a hint of extra flavor, perfect when serving to guests or elevating everyday breakfasts.
Side Dishes
This strawberry jam pairs amazingly with whole-grain toast, warm muffins, classic pancakes, or light crepes. It also makes an excellent companion to creamy yogurt or a cheese board, bringing that sweet and tangy contrast that everyone loves.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not take your Healthy Strawberry Jam Recipe up a notch by swirling it into homemade ice cream or layering it in parfaits with granola and whipped cream? You can even stir a spoonful into sparkling water or cocktails for a fruity twist. The possibilities are wonderfully endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store your jam in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to two weeks, making it easy to enjoy a spoonful whenever the craving strikes.
Freezing
If you want to keep your jam longer, freezing is a great option. Pour the jam into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. When frozen properly, it can last for several months without losing its flavor or texture.
Reheating
To bring frozen jam back to spreadable goodness, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. Warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave if you prefer a looser consistency. Just be careful not to overheat, a gentle warm-up is enough to revive those fresh strawberry notes.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh in this Healthy Strawberry Jam Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen strawberries can work well, especially when fresh berries are out of season. Just be sure to thaw them fully and drain any excess liquid before cooking to avoid a runnier jam.
Is raw honey essential, or can I substitute another sweetener?
Raw honey adds a unique depth and natural sweetness, but you can substitute with maple syrup or agave nectar if preferred. Keep in mind the flavor and texture might shift slightly depending on your choice.
How do I know when the jam is ready?
A great test is the spoon test: if the jam thickly coats the back of a spoon and doesn’t immediately run off, it’s done. The texture should be spreadable, not watery or overly stiff.
Can I make this jam sugar-free?
Since honey is a natural sweetener, the recipe is already lighter than conventional jams. If you want to omit honey entirely, the jam will be less sweet and less thick. Consider adding a bit of pectin or cooking longer to thicken without added sugar.
What is the shelf life of this Healthy Strawberry Jam Recipe in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, this jam should stay fresh for about two weeks. Always check for signs of spoilage, such as off smells or mold, before consuming after extended storage.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly nothing like the joy of spreading homemade jam made with love and fresh ingredients. This Healthy Strawberry Jam Recipe is quick, easy, and packed with natural, wholesome flavors that will brighten up your breakfast table and snack time. Give it a try—you’re going to fall in love with how simply delicious homemade can be!
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Healthy Strawberry Jam Recipe
- Total Time: 30-40 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Healthy Strawberry Jam recipe uses fresh strawberries, raw honey, and lemon to create a naturally sweet and vibrant spread that’s perfect for pancakes, muffins, crepes, and more. Cooked gently on the stovetop to preserve the fruit’s natural flavors, this jam is a healthier alternative to store-bought varieties with no added refined sugar.
Ingredients
Jam Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh strawberries (about 1 kg)
- 1/2 cup raw honey
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (from one lemon)
- 2–3 tablespoons lemon juice (from the same lemon)
Instructions
- Prepare the strawberries: Rinse the strawberries thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt. Chop off the leafy tops and cut the strawberries into halves or quarters depending on their size. Place the chopped strawberries in a pot along with the raw honey, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Toss gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Cook the jam: Place the pot on medium heat and cover it. Let the strawberries cook for 10 minutes to soften. After 10 minutes, uncover the pot and use a wooden spoon or potato masher to mash the strawberries, breaking them down to release their juices. Continue cooking uncovered for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the mixture thickens.
- Check consistency and finish cooking: If after 20 minutes the jam is still too watery, continue cooking on medium-low, stirring frequently until it achieves a jam-like consistency that coats the back of a spoon. This ensures your jam will set properly when cooled.
- Store and serve: Once thickened, transfer the jam into a clean glass jar and allow it to cool at room temperature. Then store it in the refrigerator. Enjoy your healthy strawberry jam spread on pancakes, muffins, crepes, or bread for a delicious homemade treat.
Notes
- Use ripe but firm strawberries for the best flavor and texture.
- Adjust honey quantity for sweetness preference.
- Ensure proper sterilization of jars if storing for extended periods.
- The jam will thicken further as it cools.
- Consume within 2 weeks for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-30 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
