Diabetic-friendly Strawberry Jam

Diabetic-friendly Strawberry Jam Recipe - Low Sugar & Delicious

Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

This diabetic-friendly strawberry jam recipe is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional jams. Made with fresh strawberries, concentrated white grape juice, and a touch of lemon, this jam is bursting with flavor without the added sugars.

History

Strawberry jam has been a popular preserve for centuries, dating back to ancient times when sugar was a luxury item. This diabetic-friendly version of the classic jam recipe allows those with dietary restrictions to enjoy the sweet taste of strawberries without the added sugars.

Ingredients

4 cups strawberries, halved
0.5 cup concentrated white grape juice (simmered down from 1.5 cups)
2.5 tbsp lemon juice
0.25 tsp grated lemon rind
1.5 tbsp unflavored gelatin (1.5 envelopes)

How to prepare

Place the berries, juices, and lemon rind in a saucepan.
Slightly mash the berries to release their juice.
Heat the mixture until it reaches boiling point.
Sprinkle the mixture with unflavored gelatin.
Remove the saucepan from heat, skim off any impurities, and pack the mixture into hot jars with hot lids.
Allow the jars to cool to room temperature before placing them in the freezer.
Since this recipe is meant to be stored in the freezer, you can use any airtight and leak-proof freezer container, including plastic containers.
For optimal taste, it is recommended to let the mixture sit for a week before consuming.
This recipe can be frozen for up to 6 months and will maintain its quality.

Variations

Try using different berries such as raspberries or blueberries for a unique twist on this recipe.
Add a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm and spicy flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to slightly mash the berries to release their juices for a more flavorful jam.

- Skim off any impurities that rise to the surface while cooking to ensure a clean and smooth jam.

- Allow the jam to cool to room temperature before placing it in the freezer to prevent condensation and ice crystals from forming.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy this diabetic-friendly strawberry jam on whole grain toast, yogurt, or as a topping for oatmeal.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe requires simmering the berries and juices until they reach a boiling point, then adding the gelatin to thicken the mixture before packing it into jars.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have concentrated white grape juice, you can use apple juice or another fruit juice as a substitute.

Make Ahead Tips

This jam can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer for up to 6 months.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this diabetic-friendly strawberry jam in a small jar with a decorative label for a charming presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This jam pairs well with whole grain crackers, cheese, or as a topping for pancakes or waffles.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store this jam in the freezer in an airtight container. To serve, simply thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this diabetic-friendly strawberry jam contains approximately 30 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this diabetic-friendly strawberry jam contains approximately 8 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This recipe is low in fat, with less than 1 gram of fat per serving.

Proteins

There is minimal protein in this recipe, with less than 1 gram per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

Strawberries are a good source of vitamin C, manganese, and antioxidants, making this jam a nutritious choice for those looking to boost their intake of vitamins and minerals.

Alergens

This recipe is free of common allergens such as nuts, dairy, and gluten.

Summary

Overall, this diabetic-friendly strawberry jam is a low-calorie, low-fat, and low-carb option for those looking to enjoy a sweet treat without the added sugars.

Summary

This diabetic-friendly strawberry jam is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional jams, perfect for those looking to enjoy the sweet taste of strawberries without the added sugars. With minimal fat, carbs, and calories, this jam is a guilt-free treat that can be enjoyed on a variety of dishes.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Diabetic-friendly Strawberry Jam. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl living in a small town surrounded by lush green fields and bountiful fruit orchards. My grandmother, who was known far and wide for her delicious preserves and jams, had passed down her love of cooking to me. I spent countless hours by her side in the kitchen, watching in awe as she worked her magic with fresh ingredients and secret family recipes.

One sunny morning, as I was helping my grandmother gather strawberries from the garden, she told me about a special jam recipe that she had recently learned about. It was a diabetic-friendly version that used a natural sweetener instead of sugar, making it safe for those with dietary restrictions. Intrigued, I begged her to teach me how to make it.

With a twinkle in her eye, my grandmother agreed and we set to work. We washed and hulled the strawberries, cutting them into small pieces and placing them in a large pot. As they simmered on the stove, releasing their sweet aroma, my grandmother told me about how she had come across the recipe.

It was during a visit to the local farmer's market that she had met an elderly woman who shared her secret for making diabetic-friendly jams. The woman had explained that she had been diagnosed with diabetes many years ago and had to give up her beloved homemade jams. Determined to find a solution, she had experimented with different sweeteners until she discovered a combination that was both healthy and delicious.

My grandmother listened intently as the woman shared her tips and tricks, taking notes and asking questions along the way. She had always been a curious and resourceful cook, eager to learn new techniques and adapt them to fit her own style.

As the strawberries cooked down into a thick, fragrant jam, my grandmother added the special sweetener – a blend of honey and stevia – to taste. She explained that this natural combination provided the perfect amount of sweetness without spiking blood sugar levels, making it ideal for those with diabetes. I watched in awe as she stirred the jam, tasting and adjusting until it was just right.

Once the jam had reached the perfect consistency, my grandmother poured it into sterilized jars and sealed them tight. She explained that the jam would keep for several weeks in the refrigerator, or could be preserved using a hot water bath for longer storage. I marveled at the vibrant red color and rich aroma of the jam, eager to taste the fruits of our labor.

When the time came to sample the jam, I couldn't believe how delicious it was. The strawberries were sweet and juicy, with a hint of tartness that balanced perfectly with the natural sweetener. I savored each bite, knowing that this special recipe would be a cherished addition to my own collection.

From that day on, I made the Diabetic-friendly Strawberry Jam whenever I could, sharing it with friends and family who marveled at its unique flavor and health benefits. I felt a sense of pride knowing that I had learned such a valuable recipe from my grandmother, who had passed down her love of cooking and tradition to me.

As the years passed, I continued to experiment with different fruits and flavors, always keeping in mind the lessons I had learned from my grandmother. I cherished the memories of our time spent together in the kitchen, learning and growing as cooks and as family.

And so, whenever I make a batch of Diabetic-friendly Strawberry Jam, I think of my grandmother and the joy we shared in creating something special and delicious. I am grateful for her guidance and inspiration, and I know that her spirit lives on in every jar of jam I make.