Homemade Strawberry Mango Jam

There’s something special about making homemade jam. The way fresh fruit transforms into a sweet, spreadable treat is pure magic. Today, I’m sharing my Strawberry Mango Jam recipe, a vibrant combination of juicy strawberries and tropical mangoes. The result? A naturally sweet, slightly tangy jam that bursts with flavor in every spoonful.

I love this recipe because it’s simple, requires just a handful of ingredients, and doesn’t need any artificial preservatives. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, swirling it into yogurt, or using it as a topping for pancakes, this jam is a delightful way to enjoy the taste of fresh fruit all year round.

A Perfect Blend of Sweet and Tropical Flavors

Strawberries bring a bright, juicy sweetness, while mangoes add a luscious tropical twist. When combined, they create a well-balanced jam that’s neither too tart nor too sweet. Plus, making jam at home allows you to control the level of sweetness and ensure you’re using only the best ingredients.

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can make it with fresh or frozen fruit, adjust the sugar content to your liking, and even experiment with additional flavors like vanilla or a hint of citrus. The natural pectin in mangoes helps create the perfect consistency, making this jam easy to prepare without the need for added thickeners.

Whether you’re a seasoned jam maker or trying it for the first time, this Strawberry Mango Jam is a fantastic addition to your kitchen. It’s an excellent way to preserve the flavors of summer and enjoy them any time of the year. Get ready to spread, drizzle, and savor every bite!

Ingredients for Strawberry Mango Jam

To make this delicious Strawberry Mango Jam, you’ll need just a few simple, fresh ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in bringing out the best flavors and achieving the perfect consistency.

Key Ingredients:

• Strawberries (2 cups, hulled and chopped) – Fresh strawberries add natural sweetness and a slight tang, balancing the tropical flavor of mango.
• Mangoes (2 cups, peeled and diced) – Ripe mangoes provide a rich, tropical sweetness and natural pectin, helping the jam thicken.
• Granulated Sugar (1 ½ cups) – Sugar preserves the fruit and enhances the flavor. Adjust the amount based on the sweetness of your fruit.
• Lemon Juice (2 tbsp, freshly squeezed) – Adds acidity to balance the sweetness and helps the jam set properly.
• Lemon Zest (1 tsp, optional) – Enhances the brightness of the fruit flavors.
• Water (¼ cup, if needed) – Helps prevent the fruit from sticking to the pan while cooking.

How to Make Strawberry Mango Jam

Making homemade jam is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps to create a fresh, flavorful spread that’s perfect for breakfast, desserts, or gifting.

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit

Wash the strawberries thoroughly, then hull and chop them into small pieces. Peel the mangoes, remove the pit, and dice the flesh into small cubes. This ensures even cooking and a smooth jam texture.

Step 2: Cook the Fruit Mixture

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the strawberries, mangoes, and lemon juice. Stir gently and let the fruit release its juices. If needed, add ¼ cup of water to prevent burning.

Step 3: Add Sugar and Simmer

Once the fruit starts to break down, add the sugar and mix well. Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer. Stir frequently to prevent sticking, and allow it to cook for about 20–25 minutes until it thickens.

Step 4: Mash or Blend (Optional)

For a smoother consistency, use a potato masher to break down the fruit while it simmers. If you prefer a very smooth jam, blend it with an immersion blender for a few seconds.

Step 5: Check for Doneness

To test if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a cold plate. If it thickens and holds its shape, it’s done. If it’s too runny, continue simmering for a few more minutes and retest.

Step 6: Store the Jam

Once the jam reaches the desired consistency, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly. Transfer it to sterilized jars while still warm, seal tightly, and let it cool completely before refrigerating.

This Strawberry Mango Jam is now ready to enjoy! Spread it on toast, swirl it into yogurt, or use it as a topping for desserts.

How Long to Cook Strawberry Mango Jam

Cooking time is key when making homemade jam. The goal is to thicken the fruit mixture without overcooking it, which can alter the flavor. Here’s a general guide to ensure your jam reaches the perfect consistency:

• Soft Set (Spoonable Jam): Cook for 15-20 minutes over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. This results in a thinner jam, great for drizzling over pancakes or mixing into yogurt.
• Thick Spreadable Jam: Cook for 20-25 minutes, allowing more moisture to evaporate. Stir regularly to prevent burning. The jam should coat the back of a spoon and hold its shape when cooled.
• Firm Set (Thicker, Jelly-Like Jam): Cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring constantly towards the end. This results in a firmer jam, ideal for spreading on toast or using in pastries.

You can also test for doneness by placing a spoonful of jam on a cold plate. If it holds its shape and wrinkles slightly when pushed with a spoon, it’s ready. If it’s still runny, cook for a few more minutes and test again.

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How to Store Strawberry Mango Jam

Homemade jam can last for weeks or even months when stored correctly. Here are the best ways to keep it fresh:

• Refrigerator Storage: Store the jam in sterilized, airtight glass jars and keep it in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 3 weeks.
• Freezer Storage: If you want to keep it longer, pour the cooled jam into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. Frozen jam lasts for up to 6 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.
• Canning for Long-Term Storage: For extended shelf life, use a water bath canning method. Properly canned jam can last up to 12 months at room temperature.

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Tips for Perfect Strawberry Mango Jam

Making jam is simple, but these tips will help you get the best results every time:

• Use Ripe but Firm Fruit: Overripe fruit can become too watery, affecting the jam’s texture. Choose fresh, ripe strawberries and mangoes for the best flavor and consistency.
• Don’t Skip the Lemon Juice: The acidity helps the jam set properly and enhances the fruit’s natural flavor.
• Stir Constantly Towards the End: As the jam thickens, it can stick to the bottom of the pan and burn. Stir frequently in the last 10 minutes.
• Adjust Sugar to Taste: If your fruit is very sweet, you can reduce the sugar slightly. However, sugar also helps preserve the jam, so don’t cut it too much.
• Experiment with Flavors: Add a pinch of cinnamon, a splash of vanilla, or a touch of ginger for a unique twist.

Now that you have all the details, you’re ready to enjoy the best Strawberry Mango Jam with the perfect balance of sweetness and texture!

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this jam without sugar?

Yes, but the texture and shelf life will be different. Sugar not only sweetens the jam but also helps preserve it. If you prefer a no-sugar option, try using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. Alternatively, pectin-based sugar-free jam recipes work well. Keep in mind that jams without sugar should be refrigerated and consumed within a week or two.

2. Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Frozen strawberries and mangoes work just as well. Simply thaw them before cooking to remove excess water, or adjust the cooking time to allow the extra moisture to evaporate. Using frozen fruit may slightly alter the texture, but the flavor remains delicious.

3. Why isn’t my jam thickening?

If your jam is too runny, it may need more cooking time. Continue simmering and stir frequently to allow excess moisture to evaporate. You can also add a little more lemon juice, as its natural pectin helps thicken the jam. Another trick is to mash the fruit more to release pectin, which helps with thickening.

4. How do I sterilize jars for storing jam?

Sterilizing jars ensures your jam stays fresh and free from bacteria. Here’s how:

• Wash jars and lids with hot, soapy water, then rinse thoroughly.
• Place jars in a pot of boiling water for 10 minutes or heat them in a low-temperature oven (225°F / 110°C) for 15 minutes.
• Boil the lids separately in a small pot of water for 5 minutes.
• Let everything air dry before filling with jam.

With these answers, you’re all set to make and store Strawberry Mango Jam like a pro!