Strawberry jam recipe and its health benefits

The strawberry jam recipe is a simple homemade option that you can prepare with basic ingredients to create a natural product free from preservatives.

Strawberry jam is a delicious and popular choice that you can add to various dishes and desserts. in this article, we present the strawberry jam recipe and its health benefits for preparing a healthy option that suits a balanced lifestyle.

Health benefits of strawberry jam

Here are the main nutritional benefits of strawberry jam and its positive impact on health:

• It contains high amounts of natural sugars and carbohydrates, making it an excellent option to provide the body with quick energy.
• It is especially recommended for individuals needing an immediate energy boost, such as athletes or growing children.
• Helps improve skin health due to its antioxidants and vitamin C content. It reduces wrinkles and dark spots while maintaining skin radiance.
• Strawberry jam contains natural sugars that elevate serotonin levels in the brain, a hormone that helps enhance mood and alleviate stress.
• Consuming it in moderation can be part of a diet that promotes relaxation.
• It includes antioxidants derived from fresh strawberries, such as vitamin C and phenolic compounds. These antioxidants combat free radicals, protecting the body from premature aging, heart diseases, and certain types of cancer.
• Homemade strawberry jam avoids adding preservatives or artificial flavors found in commercial products, making it a healthier and more natural option, particularly for children.
• Enhances the immune system thanks to its vitamin C content, reducing the risk of colds and boosting the body’s ability to fight infections.
• If prepared with fresh fruit and some peels retained, strawberry jam becomes a source of dietary fiber. Fiber helps improve digestion, regulate bowel movements, and reduce the risk of constipation.
• You can use it in various foods like sandwiches, desserts, or as a sauce for both cold and hot treats, offering a rich flavor and a budget-friendly alternative to buying ready-made sweets.
• Contains a moderate amount of potassium naturally found in the fruit, which helps regulate blood pressure and reduce the risk of hypertension.

Tips for preparing it

Here are some tips for making healthy strawberry jam:

• Choose fresh, ripe strawberries as they naturally contain a higher sweetness level, reducing the need for large amounts of added sugar.
• Opt for organic strawberries to ensure they are free from harmful pesticides.
• Preservatives are often added to extend the shelf life of commercial jam, but they can be avoided in homemade recipes. Ensure jars are well-sterilized before filling them to keep the jam fresh longer.
• Reduce the sugar used in traditional recipes or use natural alternatives like honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar.
• Stick to simple, natural ingredients and avoid adding artificial colors or sweeteners that may negatively impact health.
• Prepare small quantities of strawberry jam to minimize the need for preservatives. Enjoy the fresh jam immediately after preparation or store it in the fridge for a few weeks.
• Pectin gives jam its thick texture and is naturally present in fruit.
• Instead of commercial pectin, use natural sources like apple peel, apple juice, or lemon juice, which also enhances flavor and preserves the jam’s natural color.
• Cook strawberries over low heat to preserve their vitamins and nutrients, and avoid overcooking to retain their nutritional value.
• To enhance the flavor without adding more sugar, include natural flavors like orange juice, or vanilla extract.
• Consume jam in moderation as it still contains sugars. Use a small teaspoon as a topping for sweetening foods.

Strawberry jam recipe

Strawberry jam is a delightful treat for lovers of natural sweets, combining delicious flavor and beneficial nutritional value. It can be prepared with simple ingredients and easy steps, offering significant health benefits for a balanced diet.

Servings 10 people

Prep Time 2 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Print Recipe

Ingredients

  

• 1 kg fresh strawberries
• 800 gram white sugar
• 2 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

 

• Wash the strawberries thoroughly under running water, then remove the green leaves. Cut the strawberries into halves or quarters.

  Place the sliced strawberries in a deep bowl. Add sugar and lemon juice, then mix well until the ingredients are combined. Leave the mixture in the refrigerator for at least two hours to release the strawberries' natural juices.

  Transfer the mixture to a pot over medium heat. Cook the strawberries while stirring continuously to prevent sticking. Lower the heat once it begins boiling and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, removing the foam that appears on the surface.

  Test the jam’s consistency by placing a small spoonful on a cold plate and allowing it to cool. If it holds its shape when pressed, it’s ready.

  Pour the hot jam into sterilized glass jars and let it cool before sealing tightly. Store the jars in a cool, dry place.

Notes

Use fresh, seasonal strawberries for the best taste and texture. Avoid soft or blemished strawberries, as they may affect the quality of the jam.

Ensure jars are properly sterilized to prevent bacterial growth and extend the jam’s shelf life.

Add a personal touch to the recipe by incorporating vanilla extract, cinnamon, or grated ginger for a unique flavor.

Use lemon juice to adjust the jam’s texture as it contains natural pectin and adds a balance to the sweetness.

Stir the mixture consistently during cooking to prevent sticking or burning. If the jam remains runny after cooling, reheat it over low heat with a small amount of sugar and lemon juice to improve consistency.

Store strawberry jam in the refrigerator after opening the jar, and it can stay fresh for up to two months.

Calories: 3436kcal

Keyword: healthy recipe, strawberry jam recipe

Now, you can try the strawberry jam recipe we shared and prepare a delicious treat that suits your diet while promoting your health. It’s also a healthier alternative to canned products with preservatives.