James Martin Strawberry Jam

Name: James Martin Strawberry Jam
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Ingredients: 1kg fresh strawberries, hulled; 1kg granulated sugar; Juice of 1 lemon

James Martin Strawberry Jam is a classic homemade preserve made with fresh strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. It has a soft, glossy texture with a bright, sweet flavour that captures the taste of summer in every spoonful. This recipe is simple and beginner friendly, making it perfect for anyone new to jam making. The total time is about 40 minutes, including cooking and setting.

Ingredients

For the Strawberry Jam

1kg fresh strawberries, hulled
1kg granulated sugar
Juice of 1 lemon

How to Make James Martin Strawberry Jam

Prepare the jars: Wash jam jars and lids in hot soapy water. Rinse well and place them in a low oven at 120°C for about 10 minutes to sterilise. This helps the jam keep safely for longer.
Prepare the strawberries: Place the hulled strawberries in a large heavy-based saucepan. Lightly crush some of the berries with a potato masher to release their juices while leaving some pieces whole for texture.
Add sugar and lemon: Stir in the granulated sugar and lemon juice. Place the pan over low heat and stir gently until the sugar has completely dissolved.
Bring to a boil: Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Boil rapidly for about 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Check the setting point: Spoon a little jam onto a chilled plate. Leave for a few seconds then push it with your finger. If it wrinkles slightly, the jam is ready. If not, boil for another 1 to 2 minutes and test again.
Skim and jar: Remove any foam from the surface with a spoon. Carefully pour the hot jam into the warm sterilised jars.
Seal and cool: Seal the jars immediately and allow them to cool completely at room temperature. The jam will thicken further as it cools.

Tips for the Best Strawberry Jam

How do I stop my jam from being too runny?

Make sure the jam reaches the proper setting point. If it remains runny, return it to the pan and boil for a few more minutes before testing again.

Why add lemon juice to strawberry jam?

Lemon juice provides natural pectin and acidity, which helps the jam set properly while balancing the sweetness.

Can I reduce the sugar?

Sugar helps preserve the jam and affects the texture. Reducing it too much can prevent the jam from setting and shorten its shelf life.

How do I keep strawberries from floating in the jar?

Allow the jam to cool for about 5 minutes before pouring into jars and stir gently. This helps distribute the fruit evenly.

Serving Suggestions

Spread on warm toast or buttered bread
Serve with scones and clotted cream
Use as a filling for sponge cakes
Stir into yogurt or porridge
Swirl through cheesecake or desserts

Storage

Room Temperature

Unopened jars can be stored in a cool, dark cupboard for up to 12 months.

Refrigerator

Once opened, keep the jar in the refrigerator and use within 3 to 4 weeks.

Freezing

Strawberry jam can be frozen for up to 6 months in freezer safe containers. Leave a little space at the top for expansion.

Nutrition

Calories: 50 kcal
Carbohydrates: 13g
Protein: 0.1g
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Sodium: 1mg

Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients used.

FAQs

How long does homemade strawberry jam last?

Unopened jars stored in a cool dark cupboard can last up to 12 months. Once opened, the jam should be kept in the refrigerator and used within 3 to 4 weeks.

Do I need pectin for strawberry jam?

No. Strawberries combined with lemon juice contain enough natural pectin for this recipe to set properly.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries work well. Thaw them first and include any juices when cooking the jam.

Why did my jam crystallise?

Crystallisation can happen if the sugar does not fully dissolve before boiling. Always heat gently and stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.