Strawberry Chia Jam Recipe
Introduction
Strawberry chia jam is a simple, healthy alternative to traditional jam, bursting with fresh berry flavor and natural sweetness. This no-cook recipe uses chia seeds to thicken the jam without added pectin, making it perfect for quick breakfasts or snacks.
Ingredients
- 1 cup strawberries (frozen or fresh)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- ½ tablespoon lemon juice
- Agave nectar, stevia, maple syrup, or honey (to taste)
Instructions
- Step 1: Place the strawberries in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until the berries break down and the mixture begins to bubble, about 5-7 minutes. Use a spoon or potato masher to mash the berries to your desired consistency.
- Step 2: Stir in the chia seeds and lemon juice. Taste the jam and add your preferred sweetener gradually until it reaches your desired sweetness.
- Step 3: Remove the pan from heat and let the jam cool for 5-10 minutes. The jam will thicken further as it cools.
- Step 4: Use the jam immediately or transfer it to a clean jar and refrigerate.
Tips & Variations
- For a smoother jam, blend the strawberries before cooking or after mashing for a few seconds with an immersion blender.
- Adjust sweetness based on your preference and the natural sweetness of your berries.
- Try using mixed berries instead of just strawberries for a unique flavor twist.
- If you prefer a thicker jam, add an extra teaspoon of chia seeds.
Storage
Store the strawberry chia jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to one week. To enjoy, serve chilled or gently warm it in a microwave-safe dish for a few seconds.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this jam?
Yes, frozen strawberries work well. Just thaw them slightly before cooking to help them break down easily.
Do I need to cook the jam for a long time?
No, cooking until the berries break down and the mixture bubbles (about 5-7 minutes) is sufficient since the chia seeds will thicken the jam as it cools.
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Strawberry Chia Jam Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 1 cup of strawberry chia jam 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This homemade Strawberry Chia Jam is a healthy and easy-to-make alternative to traditional jam. Using fresh or frozen strawberries, chia seeds, lemon juice, and natural sweeteners, this jam is cooked on the stovetop to a perfect spreadable consistency without added pectin or refined sugar. It’s quick to prepare, versatile, and ideal for spreading on toast, mixing into yogurt, or adding to desserts.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup strawberries (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- ½ tablespoon lemon juice
- Agave nectar, stevia, maple syrup, or honey (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the strawberries: Place the strawberries in a pan over medium heat and cook them until they begin to break down and the mixture starts to bubble. Use a spoon or potato masher to mash the berries into a chunky, jam-like consistency.
- Add chia seeds and lemon juice: Stir in the chia seeds and lemon juice thoroughly. Taste the mixture and add your preferred sweetener—such as agave nectar, stevia, maple syrup, or honey—gradually until the desired sweetness is achieved.
- Let the jam set: Remove the pan from heat and allow the jam to cool for 5 to 10 minutes. During this time, the chia seeds will absorb moisture and thicken the mixture to a proper jam consistency.
- Store or serve: You can use the jam immediately or transfer it to a clean jar and refrigerate. The jam will keep fresh in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Notes
- For a smoother jam, mash the strawberries more thoroughly while cooking.
- Adjust the amount of sweetener to suit your taste or dietary needs.
- Use fresh lemon juice for best flavor.
- The jam thickens more as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems slightly runny while warm.
- This recipe is naturally gluten free and can be vegan depending on the sweetener used.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Strawberry chia jam, healthy jam recipe, homemade jam, chia seed jam, quick jam, gluten free jam, no pectin jam
