MCP Pectin Strawberry Jam Recipe for Perfect Homemade Jam

There’s something undeniably delightful about homemade strawberry jam. The vibrant color, the fresh aroma, and the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness make it a pantry staple that brightens up any breakfast or snack.

Using MCP pectin in your jam-making process ensures a smooth, consistent set without the need for excessive sugar. MCP (Metamorphic Citrus Pectin) pectin is known for its high-quality gel-forming ability, which is ideal for fruit jams like strawberry.

Whether you’re a seasoned canner or a first-time jam maker, this recipe will guide you through crafting a luscious, spreadable strawberry jam that tastes like summer in a jar.

In this post, I’ll share a step-by-step MCP pectin strawberry jam recipe that’s easy to follow and yields fantastic results. Plus, I’ll include helpful tips, variations, nutrition facts, and serving suggestions to inspire your kitchen adventures.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This strawberry jam recipe stands out because it uses MCP pectin, which sets faster and allows for more control over sweetness levels. Unlike traditional pectin, MCP pectin works well with less sugar, making this jam a healthier option without sacrificing texture or flavor.

Plus, the recipe focuses on using fresh, ripe strawberries to maximize natural flavor. The end product is a vibrant, glossy jam with a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness that spreads beautifully on toast, swirls effortlessly into yogurt, or serves as a delectable topping for desserts.

Whether you’re preserving strawberries from your summer harvest or craving a fresh fruit spread any time of year, this recipe is versatile and reliable. And if you love plant-based creations, be sure to check out some of my other favorites like Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide and Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas for wholesome meal inspiration.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
• 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 tablespoon MCP pectin powder
• ¼ cup water

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed saucepan or jam pot
• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Glass jars with lids, sterilized
• Jar funnel (optional but helpful)
• Potato masher or immersion blender (optional for texture)
• Candy thermometer (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the strawberries: Wash the strawberries thoroughly. Remove the stems and hulls, then cut the strawberries into halves or quarters depending on size. For a smoother jam, you can mash them lightly with a potato masher or pulse briefly with an immersion blender.
2. Cook the fruit: Place the strawberries in your saucepan over medium heat. Add the lemon juice and water. Stir gently and allow the fruit to soften and release its juices, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add MCP pectin: In a small bowl, mix the MCP pectin powder with 2 tablespoons of the sugar to prevent clumping. Stir this mixture into the strawberries once they are soft and simmering.
4. Bring to a boil: Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil while stirring frequently. Boil for 1 minute, then add the remaining sugar, stirring constantly until completely dissolved.
5. Boil to set: Return the mixture to a full rolling boil and boil hard for 1-2 minutes. If using a candy thermometer, the jam should reach about 220°F (104°C).
6. Test the set: To check if your jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate. Let it cool for a minute, then push it with your finger. If it wrinkles and holds its shape, the jam is set. If not, boil for another minute and test again.
7. Jar the jam: Remove the pot from heat. Using a jar funnel if available, ladle the hot jam into sterilized glass jars, leaving about ¼ inch headspace. Wipe rims clean and seal tightly with lids.
8. Process jars (optional): For longer shelf life, process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Otherwise, store in the refrigerator and consume within 3 weeks.
9. Cool and store: Let the jars cool completely at room temperature. Label with the date and store in a cool, dark place or refrigerator.

Tips & Variations

“For a chunkier jam, resist the urge to mash the strawberries too much. If you prefer a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to puree the fruit before cooking.”

• Sugar alternatives: You can substitute part of the granulated sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or agave, but keep in mind this may affect the set and shelf life.
• Flavor twists: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of ground cinnamon for a subtle flavor boost.
• Mix fruits: Try combining strawberries with raspberries or blackberries for a mixed berry jam.
• Low sugar option: MCP pectin allows for lower sugar jams, but be sure to follow the pectin package instructions for precise adjustments.
• Batch size: This recipe can be easily doubled or halved depending on how much jam you want to make.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This strawberry jam is incredibly versatile and elevates many dishes with its fresh fruit flavor. Here are some ways to enjoy it:

• Spread on warm toast, bagels, or English muffins for a classic breakfast.
• Swirl into plain yogurt or vegan yogurt for a fruity snack or dessert.
• Use as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
• Mix into oatmeal or porridge for natural sweetness.
• Pair with vegan cheese platters or nut butter sandwiches.
• Drizzle over vegan ice cream or use as a filling in cakes and pastries.

For more fresh and wholesome vegan recipes, you might enjoy Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food or Budget Bytes Recipe Thai Noodles Vegetarian and Delicious.

Conclusion

Making your own strawberry jam with MCP pectin is a rewarding culinary experience that brings the taste of fresh summer strawberries right to your table all year round. This recipe balances simplicity and precision, delivering a jam that sets perfectly with less sugar, allowing the natural strawberry flavor to shine through.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced jam maker, you’ll appreciate the ease and reliability of this method.

Not only will you enjoy a delicious spread, but you’ll also gain confidence in preserving fruits in a healthy way. Plus, homemade jam makes a thoughtful gift or a charming addition to your breakfast routine.

Don’t forget to explore other delightful recipes on the blog, like the Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or the Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals for even more kitchen inspiration.

Happy jam making!

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