Strawberry Cherry Spice Jam (No Sugar, No Preservatives)
Sweetened only by fruit. Thickened naturally with agar agar.
Ingredients:
1 cup strawberries, hulled and chopped
1 cup cherries, pitted and halved
1/2 tsp agar agar powder (natural vegan gelatin substitute)
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1/8 tsp salt
1 small cinnamon stick (or 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon)
1/8 tsp nutmeg (freshly grated if possible)
Instructions:
In a saucepan over medium heat, add strawberries, cherries, lemon juice, salt, cinnamon stick, nutmeg.
Simmer gently for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fruit softens and breaks down.
Remove cinnamon stick, then mash fruit with a fork or blend for a smoother texture (optional).
Sprinkle in the agar agar powder while stirring constantly to prevent clumping.
Simmer for another 2–3 minutes, until mixture thickens.
Remove from heat. Let cool slightly, then transfer to a clean glass jar.
Chill in the fridge to set fully—jam will thicken more as it cools.
Why It’s Good for You:
No sugar or preservatives – sweetened naturally by fruit
Agar agar – gut-friendly, plant-based thickener from seaweed
Cherries & Strawberries – high in antioxidants & fiber
Cinnamon & Nutmeg – boost flavor, blood sugar control, and warmth
Lemon juice – helps preserve and balance the flavor naturally