Strawberry Jam Recipe – Easy Homemade Indian Strawberry Preserve

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Strawberry Jam Recipe – Easy Homemade Indian Strawberry Preserve

Hey everyone! There’s just something so comforting about a jar of homemade jam, isn’t there? Especially when it’s bursting with the sweet, summery flavour of strawberries. I remember making this for the first time, trying to recreate the taste of my grandmother’s strawberry jam – and honestly, it was a huge success! This recipe is super easy, even if you’ve never made jam before, and the result is so much better than anything you can buy in a store. Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This strawberry jam recipe is a winner for so many reasons. It’s incredibly simple, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort. Plus, homemade jam tastes unbelievably fresh and vibrant. You control the sweetness, and there are no artificial preservatives – just pure strawberry goodness! It’s a little taste of sunshine in a jar, perfect for spreading on toast, stirring into yogurt, or even enjoying straight from the spoon (no judgement here!).

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious strawberry jam:

• 800 gms Fresh Strawberries (about 4 cups, hulled)
• 2 cups Raw Sugar
• 2 tsp Lemon juice

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec! Using fresh, ripe strawberries is key – the sweeter they are, the less sugar you’ll need. I always look for strawberries that smell amazing!

Now, about that raw sugar… I love using raw sugar (also known as unrefined sugar) in this recipe. It adds a lovely, subtle molasses flavour that complements the strawberries beautifully. It also creates a slightly more textured jam, which I personally prefer. You can use regular granulated sugar if you like, but the raw sugar really elevates the flavour.

Strawberries are typically in season in India from November to April, especially in hill stations like Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani. But you can find them imported throughout the year, though they might be a bit pricier.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s make some jam!

1. First, gently wash your strawberries. Then, soak them in water for about 15 minutes. This helps remove any dirt or residue.
2. Drain the strawberries well and pat them dry with a clean towel. Then, spread them out on a towel and let them air-dry for another 15-20 minutes. Getting rid of excess moisture is important for a good jam consistency.
3. Remove the stems and grind the strawberries into a puree. You can leave it a little chunky if you like a rustic jam, or blend it until completely smooth – it’s totally up to you!
4. In a thick-bottomed pan (this prevents scorching!), combine the strawberry puree, raw sugar, and lemon juice.
5. Place the pan over low heat and stir constantly. This is important! We don’t want the jam to stick and burn.
6. Keep stirring for about 20 minutes, or until the jam thickens to your desired consistency. A good way to test is to place a small spoonful on a chilled plate – if it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it’s ready!
7. Once the jam has cooled completely, carefully transfer it to a sterilized glass jar.

Expert Tips

• Low and Slow: Cooking the jam over low heat is crucial for developing the flavour and preventing burning. Patience is key!
• Constant Stirring: Seriously, don’t walk away! Stirring prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
• Lemon Juice is Your Friend: The lemon juice not only adds a lovely brightness but also helps with the setting process.
• Don’t Overcook: Overcooked jam will be too firm. Remember, it will thicken a bit more as it cools.

Variations

Want to get creative with your jam? Here are a few ideas:

• Low Sugar Option: Reduce the sugar to 1.5 cups, but be aware that the jam might be slightly softer. You can also use a sugar substitute, but it might affect the flavour and texture.
• Spice Infusion: Add a pinch of cardamom powder or a tiny grind of black pepper during the cooking process. It sounds unusual, but it adds a wonderful warmth! My friend, Priya, swears by a tiny piece of cinnamon stick too.
• Festival Adaptations: Homemade jam makes a wonderful gift! During Diwali or Christmas, I love to decorate the jars with ribbons and labels and give them to friends and family. It’s a thoughtful and delicious present.

Serving Suggestions

Okay, so you’ve made a beautiful jar of strawberry jam. Now what? Here are a few ideas:

• Spread it generously on toast, scones, or muffins.
• Stir a spoonful into your morning yogurt or oatmeal.
• Use it as a filling for cakes and pastries.
• Pair it with cheese and crackers for a sweet and savoury snack.
• Honestly? Just enjoy it straight from the spoon!

Storage Instructions

To keep your jam fresh and delicious:

• Refrigerated: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 months.
• Room Temperature: In dry climates, you can store it at room temperature for up to 1 week. Make sure the jar is sealed tightly.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

• Is this jam recipe suitable for beginners? Absolutely! It’s a very straightforward recipe, and I’ve included lots of tips to help you succeed.
• Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe? You can, but the jam might be a little softer. Thaw the strawberries completely and drain off any excess liquid before using.
• How do I sterilize glass jars for jam storage? Wash the jars and lids in hot, soapy water. Then, place the jars in a boiling pot of water for 10 minutes. Remove them carefully and let them air dry completely.
• What is the shelf life of homemade strawberry jam? Properly stored, homemade strawberry jam can last for up to 2 months in the refrigerator.
• Can I adjust the sweetness level of the jam? Yes, you can! Start with the recommended amount of sugar and taste as you go. Add more sugar if needed, but remember that sugar also helps with preservation.