Ingredients
Jam Ingredients
- 3 cups fresh berries of choice (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- ¼ cup filtered water
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (adjust for sweetness)
- 2-3 tbsp chia seeds
- Juice of ½ lemon
Instructions
- Cook the Berries: Add the fresh berries, filtered water, and maple syrup to a nonstick saucepan. Place over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. As the berries cook, mash some with your spoon to help them break down and create a jam-like texture.
- Add Chia Seeds: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the chia seeds thoroughly. Allow the mixture to sit for 5-10 minutes so the chia seeds can absorb the liquid and thicken the jam naturally.
- Finish with Lemon Juice: Stir in the juice of half a lemon to add brightness and balance the sweetness. Transfer the jam to a clean glass jar and let it cool completely before storing.
- Store and Use: Keep the chia seed jam refrigerated for up to 7-14 days. Use it as a spread on toast, a topping for yogurt, or to add fruity sweetness to desserts.
Notes
- You can use any fresh or frozen berries depending on what’s in season or available.
- Maple syrup quantity can be adjusted or substituted with honey or agave nectar to taste.
- Chia seeds are the natural thickener and provide extra fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Allowing the jam to sit after adding chia seeds is crucial for proper thickening.
- The jam can also be blended slightly if you prefer a smoother consistency.
- Store jam in a sealed jar in the refrigerator and consume within two weeks for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
