No joke, this jam took less than 10 minutes to make. I do have to mention that a microwave played a major role, and I’m usually not one to rally behind nuked foods. But when a recipe claims to take a mere ten minutes, well, I’m a sucker for that kind of thing.
When it first came out of the microwave, the mixture had ballooned considerably and then slowly deflated, leaving a soupy mixture. As it cooled, the jam thickened, and I have to say, it’s scrumptious. K, of course, thought it was a fabulous science/cooking experiment, which I guess it kind of is, and she loves the jam.
I’m always happy to try out new things, but it does make me a little uncomfortable to consume microwaved food. Every time I heat up leftovers, I feel a pang of guilt. But oh, the convenience! At any rate, this jam was definitely worth the try, and now that my curiosity is sated, I’m back to healthy cooking!
Here’s a behind the scenes look-see of K styling the jam and taking test shots with her little camera, setting it all up for me to shoot. I think she might have a real future in this line of business…
I don’t think you have to justify your use of a microwave or feel guilty about using it. It’s a really efficient machine – and think of how many hours of electricity and stove-top cooking time you saved by not using the boiling down method of jam making/ canning. Also, the microwaves are merely activating the water and fat molecules to create heat. I think microwaves get a bad rap, but they have their uses. I just don’t microwave anything in plastic and it’s all good.
No judging here! And thanks for sharing the recipe link!
Thanks for making me feel better about the microwave, Adri
It’s probably because I live in Seattle where I know too many people who treat the microwave like the devil!
if she’s inherited any of her mom’s creative genes, then yes – she will have a great eye for photo styling:)
we’re huge homemade jam fans here, and I’m excited about the strawberry season being a month away (or perhaps a tad longer than usual as spring seems reluctant to arrive). the trick for me is finding low sugar recipes that actually set up!
I love strawberry jam, and a low sugar version sounds fantastic, Lucinda! I have a friend who swears by freezer jams – have you ever tried?
that’s all I do:) Canning is so. much. work.
That’s what I hear about canning, so I’ve been avoiding it like the plague! I’ll have to try freezer jam next!
O wow, that looks really good — thank you for sharing! Trust you are doing well
Hi Janice! Hope all is well on your end, and yes, things are dandy around here
I’m so glad you tried it an enjoyed the results – I don’t love using my microwave either, but we LOVE our jam
It’s a great recipe, Heather! I’m so glad I stumbled upon it (via Pinterest, where I seem to get all of my recipes these days). You have a beautiful blog!!