Name: Instant Pot Strawberry Jam
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2.5 cups strawberries (hulled and crushed); 0.5 cup sugar; 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)

Nourish your mornings with a delightful twist on a classic recipe: savor the homemade bliss of strawberry jam made effortlessly with the Instant Pot. This world-class, homemade delight captures the natural sweetness of strawberries and is made using only simple ingredients, delivering a store-like perfection in just a fraction of the time.

Every summer, my grandmother would prepare batches of strawberry jam, filling our home with an aroma that promised sweet summer mornings even in the depths of winter. In this fast-paced world, recreating those cherished moments became a task, until I discovered the magic of using an Instant Pot. In just under an hour, I was whisked back to those sunlit kitchens of my childhood, breathing in nostalgia with every bubble of simmering strawberries.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a game-changer for both novice and seasoned home cooks. With minimal prep, the Instant Pot does the hard work, reducing time and effort while enhancing flavors to perfection. This method preserves the essence of strawberries, yielding a luscious jam with a rich, deep color and irresistible taste. Plus, it’s customizable for sugar levels, making it as healthy or indulgent as desired.

Ingredients Notes

Fresh, ripe strawberries are the heart of this recipe. If out of season, frozen strawberries are an excellent substitute, ensuring year-round enjoyment. Lemon juice adds a tangy brightness, enhancing the fruit’s natural flavor while helping with pectin development. Opt for organic cane sugar or experiment with honey for a natural sweetener alternative.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Begin by washing and hulling the strawberries, slicing them in halves or quarters depending on size. Place them directly into the Instant Pot, allowing them to sit for about 10 minutes to release some of their natural juices.

Step 2

Pour lemon juice over the strawberries, then sprinkle the sugar evenly on top. Gently stir everything together to combine the flavors and allow the strawberry mixture to sit for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 3

Secure the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to sealed position, and select the “Pressure Cook” setting on high for 1 minute. Once finished, allow for a 15-minute natural pressure release.

Step 4

After the pressure is released, remove the lid and select the “Sauté” function. Your aim is to reduce the liquid until the jam reaches your desired consistency, which will take about 10-15 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid sticking.

Step 5

Optionally, use an immersion blender for a smoother texture. Once ready, allow the jam to cool slightly before transferring it to sterilized jars.

Storage Options

Store your jam in clean, airtight jars and refrigerate for up to three weeks. For longer storage, seal the jars properly and keep them in the freezer for up to a year. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before use and enjoy the taste of fresh jam anytime.

Variations & Substitutions

For a delightful twist, add a touch of vanilla extract or fresh basil for a unique flavor profile. Need a sugar-free version? Use a natural sweetener like stevia or erythritol. If you fancy a mix of flavors, try incorporating blueberries or raspberries, adjusting the sweetness as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Perfect on a toasted slice of whole-grain bread, scrumptious stirred into yogurt, or delightful as a topping for pancakes or waffles, this jam elevates simple dishes. It also makes a charming homemade gift, evoking a sense of culinary comfort and warmth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other fruits instead of strawberries?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile and works well with other berries like raspberries or blueberries. Adjust the sugar and lemon juice according to the fruit’s natural sweetness and acidity for optimal results.

Do I need to add pectin?
The natural pectin in strawberries and lemon juice is sufficient if cooked thoroughly. Avoiding additional pectin gives the jam a softer, more natural consistency. However, for a firmer texture, a small packet of commercial pectin can be included.

How can I thicken the jam if it’s too runny?
If the consistency is too liquid for your preference, continue to simmer while stirring on the “Sauté” setting until it reaches the desired thickness. Remember that the jam will thicken further upon cooling.

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