How to Make Chia Seed Jam Recipe
Introduction
Chia seed jam is a quick and healthy alternative to traditional jams, made with fresh berries and naturally thickened with chia seeds. It’s perfect for a delicious, homemade spread without the added sugar and preservatives.
Ingredients
- 3 cups fresh berries of choice
- ¼ cup filtered water
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 2-3 tbsp chia seeds
- Juice of ½ lemon
Instructions
- Step 1: Add the berries, water, and maple syrup to a nonstick saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Mash some berries with your spoon while stirring to help them break down.
- Step 2: Remove the pan from heat, stir in the chia seeds until well combined, and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes to thicken.
- Step 3: Stir in the lemon juice, transfer the jam to a glass jar, and refrigerate. Use as desired.
Tips & Variations
- Adjust the amount of chia seeds for thicker or thinner jam according to your preference.
- Try different berries or a mix, like strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, for varied flavor.
- Add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon to enhance the taste.
- If you prefer it sweeter, add a little more maple syrup or honey.
Storage
Store the chia seed jam in an airtight glass jar in the refrigerator for 7-14 days. Before using, give it a quick stir if it has thickened too much. You can enjoy it chilled or spread on toast, yogurt, or oatmeal.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen berries for this jam?
Yes, frozen berries work well. Just thaw them slightly before cooking and proceed with the recipe as usual.
Does chia seed jam need to be cooked?
This recipe involves cooking to break down the berries and release their juices, but the jam thickens mostly from the chia seeds, which absorb the liquid without heating. For a no-cook version, mash fresh berries and add chia seeds and sweetener, letting it sit to thicken.
PrintHow to Make Chia Seed Jam Recipe
This vibrant and healthy chia seed jam recipe uses fresh berries simmered with a touch of maple syrup, then thickened naturally with chia seeds. It’s quick to make, no refined sugars, and perfect for spreading on toast, yogurt, or adding to desserts.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 jar (~1 cup) 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Jam Ingredients
- 3 cups fresh berries of choice (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries)
- ¼ cup filtered water
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 2–3 tbsp chia seeds
- Juice of ½ lemon
Instructions
- Simmer Berries: Add the fresh berries, filtered water, and maple syrup to a nonstick saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to medium-low and let it simmer for 10-12 minutes. Stir occasionally and gently mash some of the berries to help break them down, allowing the natural juices to release and thicken the mixture.
- Add Chia Seeds: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the chia seeds until evenly incorporated. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb liquid and thicken the jam naturally.
- Finish with Lemon Juice: Stir in the juice of half a lemon to brighten the flavors. Transfer the jam into a clean glass jar, let cool completely, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 7-14 days. Use as desired to enhance your breakfasts or snacks.
Notes
- Use a mix of berries or single variety depending on your taste preference.
- Maple syrup can be adjusted or substituted with honey or agave nectar if preferred.
- For a smoother consistency, you can blend the berries before simmering.
- Store jam in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh.
- Chia seed jam thickens further as it cools.
- Great for a naturally sweetened, fruit-packed spread without added pectin.
Keywords: chia seed jam, berry jam, vegan jam recipe, healthy spread, no pectin jam, homemade jam, quick jam recipe
