Homemade Strawberry Jam

Ripe red strawberries are the perfect berries for summer. They are packed with Vit.C and fiber. Rich in antioxidants strawberries are well known for their cancer fighting properties. They contain Ellagic acid which helps reduce wrinkles. Low in calorie, cholesterol free, strawberries are a good source for potassium and manganese. Bursting with their sweet sour flavor they can be made in squashes, jams, and chutneys or just enjoyed as they are. This recipe is made without pectin, which is used as a preservative in commercially made jams.

INGREDIENTS

Makes 250 gm Jam

• 500gm medium strawberries , hulled and cut in quarter
• 500gm organic sugar
• 1 tsp of lime juice
• 1 sterilized bottle. 

METHOD

Place the cut strawberries in a glass bowl and with a back of the spatula or fork lightly crush them till they are pulpy. Transfer these strawberries in to a deep bottom pan and add the sugar. Mix it well. Now place the pan on a low flame, constantly stirring the mixture. Once the sugar is dissolved and the mixture acquires the jam consistency, add the lemon juice. Take the pan out of the flame & stir to mix the lemon juice.  Pour the mixture in to the jar and secure the lid tightly. Process it in water bath if you need to store jam for more than a month.

No need to process if you consume the jam within a month. Keep it refrigerated.

SUBSTITUTE

• Blue berries and mulberries can be used in place of strawberries.
• You can add crushed mint leaves and ground peppercorn while cooking the jam for a distinct flavor.