If you are a fan of strawberries and jellies, you may be wondering how many calories are in 1 tbsp of strawberry jelly. Well, you will be pleased to hear that it contains only 50 calories per tablespoon.
Apart from being low in calories, strawberry jelly is also packed with essential nutrients that provide numerous health benefits. Let's take a closer look at them.
In this article, we'll explore the nutritional benefits and potential health risks of consuming too much strawberry jelly. We'll also provide some creative ways to use it in your recipes and tips on how to make your own homemade strawberry jelly.
How Many Calories in 1 tbsp of Strawberry Jelly?
As mentioned earlier, 1 tbsp of strawberry jelly contains only 50 calories. This means you can enjoy it without worrying about ruining your diet. However, keep in mind that excessive consumption can lead to weight gain and other health issues, which we will discuss later.
What are the Nutritional Benefits of Strawberry Jelly?
Strawberry jelly is a rich source of vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system, promotes skin health, and improves iron absorption. It also contains antioxidants, which protect the body against free radicals and lower the risk of chronic diseases. Moreover, it contains fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain healthy bowel movements.
How to Use Strawberry Jelly in Your Recipes?
Strawberry jelly can be used in a variety of recipes, such as sandwiches, cakes, tarts, and smoothies. You can spread it on toast, mix it with yogurt, or add it to your oatmeal. The possibilities are endless! Here are some recipe ideas to inspire you: - Strawberry and cream cheese sandwich: Spread some cream cheese and strawberry jelly on a slice of bread and top it with another slice. - Strawberry jelly muffins: Add a spoonful of strawberry jelly to your muffin batter and bake it in the oven.
What are the Health Risks of Consuming Too Much Strawberry Jelly?
While strawberry jelly offers numerous health benefits, consuming too much of it can have negative consequences. Due to its high sugar content, excessive consumption can lead to weight gain, tooth decay, and other health problems. It is also important to note that store-bought strawberry jelly may contain preservatives and additives that can be harmful to your health.
Strawberry Jelly vs. Other Types of Jam
Strawberry jelly differs from other types of jam, such as strawberry jam or preserves, in that it contains no fruit chunks or seeds. Instead, it is made by boiling strawberries in sugar, water, and pectin until they reach a smooth, gel-like consistency. While this gives it a smooth texture and sweeter flavor, it also means that it has a lower nutritional value than whole fruit preserves.
How to Make Homemade Strawberry Jelly?
Making your own homemade strawberry jelly is easy and fun. Here is a simple recipe to get you started: - Ingredients: 1 lb fresh strawberries, 2 cups sugar, 1/2 cup water, 1/4 cup lemon juice, 1 packet powdered pectin. - Directions: Wash and hull the strawberries. In a large saucepan, mix the strawberries, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Add the pectin and continue boiling for 1 minute. Remove from heat and transfer the mixture to sterilized jars. Let cool and refrigerate. Enjoy!
What are Some Creative Ways to Serve Strawberry Jelly?
Apart from using strawberry jelly in recipes, you can also serve it in creative ways to impress your guests. Here are some ideas to try: - Strawberry jelly shots: Mix strawberry jelly with vodka and pour it into shot glasses. Let it set in the refrigerator for a few hours and serve. - Strawberry jelly parfait: Layer strawberry jelly, yogurt, and granola in a glass to make a healthy and delicious dessert.
How to Store Strawberry Jelly Properly?
Store-bought strawberry jelly can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 6 months. Once opened, it should be consumed within a month. Homemade strawberry jelly can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks, or in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Top Brands to Buy Strawberry Jelly
There are many brands of strawberry jelly available in the market, but some of the most popular ones include Smucker's, Welch's, and Knott's Berry Farm. It is important to read the labels and choose a brand that uses high-quality ingredients and has no preservatives or artificial additives.
Frequently Asked Questions about Strawberry Jelly
Q: Is strawberry jelly vegan? A: Yes, strawberry jelly is vegan, as it contains no animal products. Q: Can I make strawberry jelly without pectin?
FAQs about 1 tbsp Strawberry Jelly
1. Is 1 tbsp of strawberry jelly high in calories?
Yes, 1 tbsp of strawberry jelly contains 50 calories, which is a considerable amount if you are on a low-calorie diet.
2. Is strawberry jelly healthy?
While strawberry jelly is made from fruit, it is often high in sugar and may contain additives or preservatives. Therefore, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a healthy diet.
3. How can I use 1 tbsp of strawberry jelly?
1 tbsp of strawberry jelly can be used as a topping for toast, biscuits, or pancakes. It can also be added to yogurt, smoothies, or oatmeal for extra flavor.
4. How can I make homemade strawberry jelly?
To make homemade strawberry jelly, you will need fresh strawberries, sugar, pectin, and water. First, mash the strawberries and cook them with sugar and water. Then, add pectin and boil the mixture for a few minutes. Finally, pour the jelly into jars and let it cool.
5. How long does strawberry jelly last?
Store-bought strawberry jelly can last for several months if stored in a cool, dry place. Once opened, it should be kept in the refrigerator and consumed within a few weeks. Homemade strawberry jelly can last for several weeks if stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.