The main ingredient in jam is typically fruit. To make jam, various fruits such as strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, or peaches are cooked down with sugar and pectin, a natural thickening agent. The cooking process helps to break down the fruit, combining flavors and achieving the desired consistency. While sugar not only adds sweetness but also acts as a preservative, the pectin helps to gel the mixture, resulting in the thick texture characteristic of jam. Some recipes may also include additional ingredients like lemon juice for flavor and acidity. Different types of jams can be made depending on the fruit used and preparation methods.