The primary distinction between peanut butter and jam is their ingredients; peanut butter consists of a paste created from roasted peanuts, while jam is made primarily from various fruit types. Peanut butter and jam are well-known spreads used in sandwiches, adding flavor to bread or crackers. In addition to enhancing the taste of your bread, they also provide health benefits.
Key Takeaways
- Peanut butter is made from mashed roasted peanuts and is rich in protein and other health benefits.
- Jam is made from boiled fruit with water and sugar, typically containing only one fruit and providing quick energy.
- Both peanut butter and jam are popular spreads used in sandwiches and on toast or crackers.
What is Peanut Butter?
Peanut butter, as the name suggests, is made from peanuts. It is a paste made by mashing roasted peanuts and often contains additional ingredients such as vegetable oil and molasses to achieve the desired consistency and flavor. Peanut butter is protein-rich and contains a good amount of resveratrol, an antioxidant. It also has other health benefits, including aiding overall health.
Peanut butter is popular worldwide, and the US even celebrates National Peanut Butter Day. It can be used as a spread on bread, toast, or crackers and is a key ingredient in sandwiches, such as peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.
What is Jam?
Jam is made primarily from sliced or whole fruits, which are then boiled with water and sugar. The final product usually resembles jelly. Most jams contain only one fruit, not a mixture of fruits, and typically include both the flesh and juice of the fruit.
Popular fruit jams include strawberry, raspberry, cherry, blueberry, peach, and apricot. Jam is an excellent source of quick energy.
What is the Difference between Peanut Butter and Jam?
Peanut Butter vs Jam
Peanut butter is a paste made from ground roasted peanuts.
Jam is a sweet made by boiling fruit and sugar to a thick consistency.
Main Ingredients
The main ingredient is peanuts.
Various types of fruits such as strawberry, apricot, raspberry, and peach.
Production Process
Mashing roasted peanuts, resulting in a paste-like state.
Mixing the fruit with water and sugar and boiling to create a jelly-like spread.
Calories
A high-calorie food – 100 grams contains 589 calories.
A good source of quick energy – 100 grams contains 250 calories.
Nutrients
An excellent source of protein, it contains folate and dietary fiber.
A good source of Vitamin C but low in other nutritional value.
Summary – Peanut Butter vs Jam
Peanut butter has peanuts as its main ingredient and is a specific sandwich spread. In contrast, jam can be made from any fruit, including but not limited to strawberries, blueberries, or peaches. These two spreads are already staples in many households.
Image Courtesy: Pixabay
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