Image Source from kdm107

Instant Pot Strawberry Jam | Recipe This

Strawberry jam is a delightful pantry staple that adds a burst of sweetness to breakfasts, desserts, and snacks. Making jam can often be a time-consuming affair, but with the advent of appliances like the Instant Pot, the process has become so much simpler and quicker. In this article, we’ll guide you through an easy and delicious Instant Pot strawberry jam recipe that you can whip up in no time.

Why Choose Instant Pot for Jam Making?

Using an Instant Pot for jam making has several advantages:

1. Speed: Traditional jam-making can take hours, but the Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time.
2. Convenience: One pot does it all—no need for multiple pans and endless stirring.
3. Consistent Results: The pressure cooking function allows for even cooking, ensuring that your jam has a consistent texture.

Ingredients

To make your Instant Pot strawberry jam, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 500g fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
• 250g granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed for the best flavour)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• 1 teaspoon pectin (for a thicker jam, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries

Start by washing the strawberries thoroughly. Remove the green tops and halve or quarter them, depending on your preference for chunkiness in the jam. Place the prepared strawberries into your Instant Pot.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add the granulated sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract (if using) to the strawberries in the Instant Pot. If you prefer a thicker jam, incorporate the pectin at this stage. Gently stir the mixture to combine the ingredients.

Step 3: Cook the Jam

Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to sealing. Select the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook’ setting and set the timer for 3 minutes on high pressure. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes before carefully switching the valve to venting to release any remaining steam.

Step 4: Mash and Thicken

After removing the lid, you’ll find the strawberries have softened and released their juices. Use a potato masher or a fork to mash the strawberries to your desired consistency. If you prefer a smoother jam, you can use an immersion blender.

If you’d like a thicker jelly-like consistency, you can switch the Instant Pot to the ‘Sauté’ mode and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring frequently until the desired thickness is reached. Remember that the jam will continue to thicken as it cools.

Step 5: Jar the Jam

Once you have your strawberry jam at the desired consistency, carefully ladle it into sterilised jars while it’s still hot. Leave a small amount of space at the top of each jar to allow for expansion. Secure the lids on the jars, and let them cool to room temperature before refrigerating.

Storage

Your Instant Pot strawberry jam can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three weeks or frozen for up to a year. For long-term storage, consider properly sealing and processing the jars in a water bath canner.

Conclusion

Making strawberry jam in the Instant Pot is an efficient and enjoyable experience that results in a delicious homemade product. Whether you spread it on toast, use it as a topping for desserts, or mix it into yogurt, this strawberry jam is sure to be a hit. So gather your ingredients and get started on this wonderful culinary adventure—you’ll never look back to the old way of jam-making! Enjoy!