Fruit spreads and jams are popular breakfast condiments that are commonly spread on toast, bagels, or biscuits. Although both are made from fruit, there are some key differences between the two. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between fruit spreads and jams, and help you understand which one might be the best choice for your next breakfast.
What is Jam?
Jam is a sweet, spreadable fruit preserve that is made by cooking fruit and sugar together until it thickens and sets. The fruit is usually crushed or chopped, and can be either cooked with or without the skin and seeds, depending on the desired texture. The mixture is then heated until the sugar dissolves, and brought to a boil until it reaches the desired thickness.
The most common fruits used for making jam are strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and apricots, but any fruit can be used. Jams can also be made with a combination of different fruits, spices, and even alcohol.
One of the defining characteristics of jam is its texture. It has a thick, spreadable consistency, and often contains chunks of fruit. It is typically used as a spread on toast, or as a filling for cakes and pastries.
What is Fruit Spread?
Fruit spread, on the other hand, is a type of fruit preserve that is similar to jam, but with a few key differences. Like jam, fruit spread is made by cooking fruit and sugar together until it thickens and sets. However, fruit spread is typically made with a higher proportion of fruit and a lower proportion of sugar than jam. This gives it a more natural, fruity flavor, and a softer, smoother texture.
Fruit spreads are also usually made without the skins and seeds of the fruit, which results in a smoother texture and a more uniform color. Some fruit spreads are made with added pectin, a natural thickener that helps the mixture set and gives it a jelly-like consistency.
Fruit spreads are available in a wide variety of flavors, including strawberry, raspberry, blueberry, peach, and apricot, as well as less common flavors like mango, pineapple, and mixed berries. They can be used in the same way as jam, as a spread on toast or as a filling for cakes and pastries.
So, what are the differences between Jam and Fruit Spread?
The main differences between jam and fruit spread are the texture, the ratio of fruit to sugar, and the presence of skins and seeds.
Texture: Jam has a thicker, chunkier texture than fruit spread, with visible pieces of fruit throughout. Fruit spread, on the other hand, has a smoother, softer texture, with no visible pieces of fruit.
Ratio of fruit to sugar: Jam is typically made with a higher proportion of sugar than fruit, which gives it a sweeter taste and helps it to set. Fruit spread, on the other hand, is made with a higher proportion of fruit and a lower proportion of sugar, which gives it a more natural, fruity flavor.
Presence of skins and seeds: Jam can be made with or without the skins and seeds of the fruit. If the skins and seeds are left in, the jam will have a slightly more rustic texture and appearance. Fruit spreads, on the other hand, are usually made without the skins and seeds, resulting in a smoother texture and a more uniform color.
Which one should you choose?
The choice between jam and fruit spread ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a chunkier texture and a sweeter taste, then jam is the way to go. If you prefer a smoother texture and a more natural, fruity flavor, then fruit spread is the better choice.
In addition to taste and texture, it is also important to consider the ingredients when choosing between jam and fruit spread. Many commercial brands of jam and fruit spread contain added sugars, preservatives, and artificial flavors, so it is important to read the label and choose a product that uses natural ingredients.
If you are looking for a healthier option, fruit spread is a better choice as it typically has a lower sugar content and is made with more natural ingredients. Some fruit spreads are even made with organic fruit, which is free from pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
Another factor to consider is the versatility of the product. Both jam and fruit spread can be used as a spread on toast or as a filling for cakes and pastries, but jam can also be used in savory dishes, such as glazes for meats or as a condiment for cheese.
In summary, jam and fruit spread are both delicious breakfast condiments made from fruit and sugar, but they differ in texture, ratio of fruit to sugar, and presence of skins and seeds. Ultimately, the choice between jam and fruit spread comes down to personal preference, but it is important to choose a product that uses natural ingredients and fits with your dietary goals.
