Strawberry Jam with Monk Fruit: A Low-Sugar Recipe

Do you love the taste of strawberry jam but hate all the added sugar? You're not alone. Many people are now turning to low-sugar alternatives for their favorite spreads. One option is to use monk fruit as a sweetener. In this article, we'll explain why monk fruit is a great choice for making low-sugar strawberry jam and share a delicious recipe with you.

Why Choose Monk Fruit for Your Strawberry Jam

Monk fruit is a natural sweetener that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine. It's extracted from the fruit of the monk fruit plant and is up to 200 times sweeter than sugar, but with zero calories. This makes it a great option for those looking to reduce their sugar intake without sacrificing flavor. When used in strawberry jam, monk fruit allows you to enjoy the natural sweetness of the fruit without all the added sugar.

In addition to its natural sweetness and zero calorie content, monk fruit also has antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help to protect your body from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to the development of chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. By choosing monk fruit as a sweetener for your strawberry jam, you're not only reducing your sugar intake, but also adding a beneficial ingredient to your diet.

The Benefits of Using Monk Fruit Sweetener

There are many benefits to using monk fruit sweetener over traditional sugar. For one, it doesn't raise your blood sugar levels like sugar does, so it's a good choice for those with diabetes or anyone looking to reduce their sugar intake. Additionally, monk fruit has been shown to have antioxidant properties, which can help protect your body against damage from free radicals. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in your body.

Another benefit of using monk fruit sweetener is that it is a natural sweetener, unlike many artificial sweeteners that are commonly used. This means that it is a healthier option for those who want to avoid consuming artificial ingredients. Monk fruit sweetener is also low in calories, making it a great option for those who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. Finally, monk fruit sweetener has a unique taste that many people find appealing, with a slightly fruity flavor that can enhance the taste of many different foods and beverages.

How to Make Low-Sugar Strawberry Jam with Monk Fruit

Making low-sugar strawberry jam with monk fruit is easy and requires only a few basic ingredients. Here's a step-by-step guide:

First, gather your ingredients. You will need 2 pounds of fresh strawberries, 1/4 cup of monk fruit sweetener, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1 tablespoon of chia seeds.

Next, wash and hull the strawberries, then chop them into small pieces. Place the chopped strawberries in a large saucepan and add the monk fruit sweetener and lemon juice. Stir to combine and let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juices.

After 10 minutes, place the saucepan on the stove over medium-high heat. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The jam will thicken as it cooks.

Once the jam has thickened, remove it from the heat and stir in the chia seeds. Let the jam cool for a few minutes, then transfer it to a jar or container and refrigerate until ready to use.

This low-sugar strawberry jam is perfect for spreading on toast, topping yogurt or oatmeal, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries. Plus, it's a healthier alternative to traditional jam, as it's sweetened with monk fruit instead of sugar.

One thing to keep in mind is that monk fruit sweetener can be quite expensive, so you may want to look for deals or buy in bulk to save money. Additionally, if you prefer a sweeter jam, you can adjust the amount of monk fruit sweetener to your liking.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Strawberry Jam with Monk Fruit

1. Start by washing and hulling your strawberries. Remove any stems and green leaves. You can chop them up into small pieces or leave them whole depending on your preference.
2. Add your strawberries to a large pot along with your monk fruit sweetener. Stir to combine.
3. Place the pot on medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and becomes syrupy.
4. If you want a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender or transfer the mixture to a blender to puree until smooth.
5. Let the jam cool for a few minutes before transferring it to a jar. You can store it in the fridge for up to two weeks.

Did you know that monk fruit sweetener is a natural, zero-calorie sweetener that comes from the monk fruit plant? It's a great alternative to sugar for those who are watching their sugar intake or have diabetes. Monk fruit sweetener is also known for its antioxidant properties and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries.

Ingredients You Will Need for Low-Sugar Strawberry Jam

Here's a list of ingredients you'll need to make low-sugar strawberry jam with monk fruit:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, washed and hulled
• 1/4 cup monk fruit sweetener

Aside from the strawberries and monk fruit sweetener, you will also need:

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds

The lemon juice adds a tangy flavor to the jam, while the chia seeds help thicken the mixture without the need for additional sugar or pectin.

When making low-sugar strawberry jam, it's important to use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor. You can also experiment with different types of fruit and sweeteners to create your own unique jam recipes.

Tips for Choosing the Best Strawberries for Your Jam

When choosing strawberries for your jam, look for ones that are ripe but not mushy. They should be bright red and have a sweet smell. You can also taste a few to make sure they're sweet enough. It's important to use fresh strawberries, as frozen or overripe ones will affect the flavor and texture of your jam.

Another important factor to consider when choosing strawberries for your jam is the variety. Some varieties, such as the Chandler or Seascape, are known for their sweetness and are great for making jam. Others, like the Albion or Camarosa, have a more tart flavor and may require more sugar to balance out the taste.

It's also important to wash your strawberries thoroughly before using them in your jam. Rinse them under cold water and gently pat them dry with a paper towel. Removing the stems and hulls is also necessary before cooking the strawberries. This can be done with a paring knife or a strawberry huller.

The Science Behind Making Preserves with Monk Fruit

The science behind making preserves with monk fruit is fairly simple. The sweetness of monk fruit comes from mogrosides, a group of compounds found in the fruit. When heated, these compounds break down and release their sweetness. This sweetness binds with the natural pectin in the strawberries to form a gel-like consistency, which is why your jam thickens as it cooks.

Monk fruit is a great alternative to sugar for those who are looking to reduce their sugar intake. Unlike sugar, monk fruit has zero calories and does not raise blood sugar levels. This makes it a popular choice for people with diabetes or those who are trying to lose weight.

Another benefit of using monk fruit in preserves is that it has a longer shelf life than sugar. Sugar can cause preserves to spoil quickly, but monk fruit preserves can last for several months when stored properly. This is because the mogrosides in monk fruit have antimicrobial properties that help to preserve the fruit.

Freezing vs Canning: Which Method is Best for Preserving Your Jam?

If you want to store your jam for longer than two weeks, you can either freeze it or can it. Freezing is the easiest method, as you simply need to store your jam in an airtight container and freeze it for up to six months. Canning requires a bit more preparation, as you need to sterilize jars and lids before filling them with hot jam and processing them in a water bath. However, canned jam can be stored at room temperature for up to a year.

Another advantage of freezing your jam is that it preserves the fresh taste and texture of the fruit. When you thaw the jam, it will taste just as good as when you first made it. On the other hand, canned jam may lose some of its flavor and texture over time, especially if it is stored in a warm or humid environment.

However, if you have limited freezer space or prefer not to use plastic containers, canning may be a better option for you. Canned jam also makes a great gift, as it can be beautifully packaged and decorated. Additionally, the process of canning can be a fun and rewarding activity, especially if you enjoy cooking and experimenting with different flavors and ingredients.

Creative Ways to Use Your Homemade Strawberry Jam with Monk Fruit

Now that you've made your low-sugar strawberry jam with monk fruit, it's time to start using it! Here are some creative ways to enjoy your homemade jam:

• Spread it on toast or English muffins for a sweet breakfast treat.
• Layer it with yogurt and granola for a tasty parfait.
• Use it as a filling for cakes and pastries.
• Stir it into oatmeal or overnight oats for extra flavor.
• Whip it into cream cheese for a delicious fruit dip.

Another great way to use your homemade strawberry jam with monk fruit is to add it to your favorite smoothie recipe. Simply blend together some frozen fruit, yogurt, milk, and a spoonful of your jam for a delicious and nutritious drink. You can also use it as a topping for ice cream or pancakes, or mix it with some balsamic vinegar and olive oil for a flavorful salad dressing. The possibilities are endless with this versatile and tasty jam!

How to Store Your Low-Sugar Strawberry Jam with Monk Fruit

To store your low-sugar strawberry jam with monk fruit, simply transfer it to a clean, airtight jar and store it in the fridge for up to two weeks. If you've canned or frozen your jam, follow the appropriate storage guidelines for those methods.

With this low-sugar strawberry jam recipe, you can enjoy the delicious taste of fresh strawberries without all the added sugar. Give it a try and see how easy it is to make your own homemade jam!