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Easy Homemade Pure Strawberry Jam Without Pectin

homemade pure strawberry jam without pectin - featured image

A simple and delicious homemade strawberry jam recipe that requires no pectin, using only fresh strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice for a perfect natural set and flavor.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
  • 2 to cups granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse about 4 cups (about 600g) of fresh strawberries under cold water. Hull them by removing the green tops, then halve or quarter the berries depending on size. (10 minutes)
  2. In a large heavy-bottomed pot, combine the strawberries with 2 to 2½ cups (400 to 500g) of granulated sugar and 2 tablespoons (30ml) of fresh lemon juice. Stir gently to coat all berries with sugar. Let the mixture sit for 15-20 minutes to macerate.
  3. Place the pot over medium heat. Stir frequently as the sugar dissolves and the mixture starts to bubble. Once bubbling, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer gently. Stir every couple of minutes to prevent sticking and burning. Cook for about 25-30 minutes until thickened and color deepens.
  4. Test the jam by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate and letting it sit for 1-2 minutes. Run your finger through the jam—if it wrinkles and doesn’t flood back, it’s set. If not, continue simmering and test every 5 minutes.
  5. Once the jam reaches the perfect consistency, stir in ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract if using. Remove from heat immediately.
  6. Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized glass jars, leaving about ¼ inch headspace. Wipe rims clean, seal with lids, and let cool to room temperature before refrigerating.

Notes

Keep the jam uncovered for the first 10 minutes to reduce foam. Stir gently but often to avoid breaking down the strawberries too much. Use the plate test to check the set if you don’t have a thermometer. Lemon juice is essential to activate natural pectin and balance sweetness. Store jam in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or freeze for up to 6 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: strawberry jam, homemade jam, no pectin jam, easy jam recipe, fruit preserves, natural jam, vegan jam