2 Ingredients Pineapple Jam Recipe
2 Ingredients Pineapple Jam Recipe is a easy Indian recipe that serves 6. 120 calories per serving. Recipe by The Terrace Kitchen on YouTube.
Prep: 30 min | Cook: 35 min | Total: 1 hr 20 min
Cost: $2.55 total, $0.43 per serving
Ingredients
- 650 g Pineapple (fresh, peeled, core removed, chopped)
- 560 g Granulated Sugar (adjustable; use pineapple weight ÷ 1.16 for ideal sweetness)
- 100 ml Water (for extracting remaining juice from pulp)
Instructions
Prepare Pineapple
Remove the core, peel, and chop the pineapple into bite‑size pieces. Weigh the chopped pineapple; you should have about 650 g.
Time: PT10M
Puree the Fruit
Add the chopped pineapple to the mixer grinder jar and blend until you obtain a smooth puree.
Time: PT5M
Strain the Juice
Place a fine mesh strainer over a bowl and pour the puree through it. Use the back of a spoon to press gently and extract as much juice as possible. Discard the pulp.
Time: PT10M
Extract Remaining Juice
Add about 100 ml of water to the discarded pulp, stir, and strain again into the same bowl. Combine this second extraction with the first juice.
Time: PT5M
Calculate Sugar Amount
Divide the weight of the chopped pineapple (in grams) by 1.16. For 650 g pineapple, the sugar needed is roughly 560 g. Adjust to taste if you prefer a less sweet jam.
Time: PT2M
Cook the Jam
Transfer the pineapple juice to a kadhai or thick‑bottom pan. Add the measured sugar and stir to dissolve. Cook over low to medium heat, gradually increasing to medium‑high. When a frothy layer forms on top, skim it off and discard.
Time: PT15M
Temperature: Medium heat
Thicken the Jam
Continue cooking, allowing the mixture to bubble. Keep the flame at medium‑high; if it bubbles too aggressively, reduce to medium. The jam will thicken gradually. To test, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate – if it holds its shape and does not run, it’s done.
Time: PT15M
Temperature: Medium‑high heat
Cool and Store
Turn off the heat and let the jam cool for a few minutes. Transfer it to a sterilized glass jar, seal tightly, and refrigerate. The jam will set further as it cools and can be kept 2‑3 months in the fridge.
Time: PT8M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 120
- Protein
- 0 g
- Carbohydrates
- 30 g
- Fat
- 0 g
- Fiber
- 1 g
Dietary info: Vegan, Gluten‑Free, Dairy‑Free
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Pineapple: Canned pineapple (drained), Fresh mango for a different flavor
- Instead of Granulated Sugar: Honey, Jaggery, Brown sugar
Equipment Needed
- Mixer Grinder
- Fine Mesh Strainer
- Kadhai or Thick‑Bottom Pan
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
- Glass Jar with Lid
- Digital Kitchen Scale
- Cutting Board
- Chef’s Knife
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Straining the pineapple puree to remove fibers.
- Using the correct pineapple‑to‑sugar ratio (weight ÷ 1.16).
- Testing jam set‑point before removing from heat.
Chef Tips from the Video
- Use fully ripe pineapple for maximum sweetness and aroma.
- A pinch of lemon juice can brighten the flavor and help preserve color.
- Stirring with a wooden spoon prevents metal reactions with the acidic fruit.
Troubleshooting
Jam is too runny after cooling.
Return the jam to low heat and simmer until it reduces further; test again on a chilled plate.
Jam crystallizes or becomes grainy.
Make sure the sugar is fully dissolved before it starts boiling; stir continuously and avoid high heat spikes.
Jam is overly thick and hard to spread.
Add a tablespoon of water, reheat gently, and stir until the desired consistency returns.
Storage
Refrigerator: 2‑3 months in a clean, airtight glass jar.
Freezer: Up to 6 months; thaw in refrigerator before use.
Room temperature: Not recommended unless jars are sterilized and sealed; store in a cool, dark place for up to 1 month.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Sterilize jars by boiling them for 10 minutes; this extends shelf life.
- Jam can be frozen in portion‑size containers for later use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of pineapple jam in Indian cuisine?
Pineapple jam is a modern adaptation of traditional Indian fruit preserves, which historically used seasonal fruits like mango, guava, and amla. With the rise of tropical fruit imports, pineapple became popular for its bright flavor, and home cooks now make jam without pectin, preserving the fruit’s natural sweetness.
What are the traditional regional variations of pineapple jam in Indian cuisine?
While pineapple is not native to India, many regions add local spices such as cardamom, clove, or a hint of chili to create a spicy‑sweet jam. In South India, a touch of grated coconut is sometimes mixed in, whereas in the West, the jam is kept simple and used as a toast spread.
How is pineapple jam traditionally served in Indian households?
Pineapple jam is commonly served with Indian breads like roti or paratha, as a sweet accompaniment to cheese platters, or simply spread on toast for breakfast. It also pairs well with curd (yogurt) as a sweet dip.
During which occasions is pineapple jam typically prepared in Indian culture?
Homemade jams, including pineapple jam, are often prepared during festive seasons such as Diwali or during family gatherings when a variety of preserves are offered alongside pickles and snacks.
What authentic traditional ingredients are used in pineapple jam versus acceptable substitutes?
The authentic recipe uses fresh pineapple, granulated sugar, and optionally a splash of lemon juice. Substitutes include honey or jaggery for sugar, and canned pineapple (drained) if fresh fruit is unavailable, though texture may differ.
What other Indian dishes pair well with pineapple jam?
Pineapple jam pairs nicely with paneer tikka, spiced cheese toast, and even as a glaze for grilled chicken or fish. It also complements Indian breakfast items like poha or upma when a sweet contrast is desired.
What makes pineapple jam special or unique in Indian cuisine?
Unlike many Indian fruit preserves that rely on added pectin or thickening agents, this pineapple jam relies solely on the natural pectin of the fruit and the precise sugar ratio, resulting in a clean, natural flavor without artificial additives.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making pineapple jam?
Common errors include using too little sugar, which prevents proper setting; overheating the mixture, causing caramelization; and skipping the straining step, which leaves the jam overly fibrous.
Why does this pineapple jam recipe use a pineapple‑to‑sugar ratio of weight ÷ 1.16 instead of a fixed amount?
The ratio ensures the jam reaches the right pectin balance for setting, regardless of the fruit’s natural sweetness. Different pineapples vary in sugar content, so scaling the sugar proportionally yields consistent texture.
Can I make pineapple jam ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, the jam can be prepared a day ahead. After cooling, store it in a sterilized glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 2‑3 months. For longer storage, keep the hot jam in sterilized jars and seal them while still hot, then refrigerate or freeze.
What does the YouTube channel The Terrace Kitchen specialize in?
The Terrace Kitchen focuses on simple, home‑cooked Indian recipes that use everyday ingredients. The channel emphasizes clear step‑by‑step tutorials, minimal equipment, and techniques that suit busy home cooks.
How does the YouTube channel The Terrace Kitchen's approach to Indian cooking differ from other Indian cooking channels?
The Terrace Kitchen prioritizes quick, two‑ingredient or minimal‑ingredient dishes like this pineapple jam, whereas many other Indian channels often feature elaborate spice blends and multi‑step preparations. Priyanka’s style is relaxed, practical, and aimed at beginners.
Last updated: August 28, 2026
