Homemade Fruit Jam

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🍓 Homemade Fruit Jam Recipe

📖 Description

Homemade fruit jam is a delicious spread made by cooking fresh fruits with sugar and a touch of lemon juice until thick and glossy. Unlike store-bought jams, this version is free from preservatives, artificial colors, and excess additives. It’s perfect for spreading on toast, filling pastries, topping yogurt, or gifting in cute jars.

⏱️ Preparation & Cooking Time

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 25–30 minutes

  • Total Time: 40 minutes

🍽️ Servings

  • Makes: About 1½ cups (serves 12–15 tablespoons)

📝 Ingredients

  • 2 cups fresh fruit (strawberries, mango, mixed berries, peaches, or pineapple – chopped)

  • ¾ cup sugar (adjust to taste)

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

  • 2 tablespoons water (if fruit is dry)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Wash, peel (if needed), and finely chop the fruit.

  2. Add fruit, sugar, and water to a heavy-bottom pan.

  3. Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally until the fruit softens.

  4. Mash the fruit slightly for a smoother texture.

  5. Add lemon juice (and zest if using).

  6. Simmer on low heat for 15–20 minutes, stirring frequently until thick.

  7. To test doneness, place a drop on a cold plate—if it sets and doesn’t run, it’s ready.

  8. Let cool completely before transferring to a sterilized jar.

  9. Store refrigerated.

🧾 Recipe Notes

  • Jam thickens more as it cools.

  • Texture can be chunky or smooth depending on how much you mash or blend.

  • Lemon juice helps natural pectin activation and improves shelf life.

💡 Tips for Perfect Jam

  • Use ripe, flavorful fruits for best taste.

  • Stir constantly near the end to avoid burning.

  • Avoid overcooking—jam will become rubbery.

  • For low-sugar jam, use honey or jaggery (results may vary).

  • Sterilize jars with hot water for longer storage.

🧮 Nutritional Information (Per 1 Tbsp – Approx.)

  • Calories: 45 kcal

  • Carbohydrates: 11 g

  • Sugar: 10 g

  • Fiber: 0.5 g

  • Vitamin C: 6% DV

  • Fat: 0 g

  • Protein: 0 g

(Values vary depending on fruit used)

🌱 Health Benefits

  • Rich in antioxidants from fruits

  • Supports digestion due to natural fruit fiber

  • Provides quick energy

  • Free from preservatives and artificial ingredients

  • Can be customized for low-sugar diets

❓ Q & A Section

Q: How long does homemade jam last?
A: Up to 2–3 weeks in the refrigerator when stored in a sterilized jar.

Q: Can I make jam without sugar?
A: Yes, but sugar helps with preservation and thickness. You can use honey or dates as alternatives.

Q: Why is my jam runny?
A: It may need more cooking time or additional lemon juice for pectin activation.

Q: Can I freeze homemade jam?
A: Yes, freeze in airtight containers for up to 6 months.

Q: Which fruits work best for jam?
A: Berries, mango, apple, peach, plum, and pineapple work exceptionally well.

🥖 Serving Suggestions

  • Spread on toast or chapati

  • Swirl into yogurt or oatmeal

  • Use as cake or pastry filling

  • Serve with pancakes or waffles

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