Easy Berry Chia Seed Jam (Print version)
A quick, vibrant spread made with mixed berries and chia seeds. Naturally sweetened and ready in 15 minutes.
# Ingredient List:
→ Fruit
01 - 2 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen; strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries)
→ Sweetener
02 - 2-3 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (to taste)
→ Thickener
03 - 2 tablespoons chia seeds
→ Flavor
04 - ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
05 - ½ teaspoon lemon juice
# How To Make It:
01 - Place the berries in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the berries begin to break down and release their juices, about 5 minutes.
02 - Use a fork or potato masher to mash the berries to your desired consistency, whether chunky or smooth.
03 - Stir in the maple syrup (or honey), chia seeds, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until well combined.
04 - Remove from heat and let the mixture sit for at least 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The jam will thicken as the chia seeds absorb the liquid.
05 - Taste the jam and adjust sweetness with additional sweetener if necessary.
06 - Transfer the jam to a clean jar. Allow to cool completely before sealing. Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
# Expert Advice:
01 -
- Ready in fifteen minutes with zero canning equipment or complicated steps
- Naturally sweetened and packed with omega-3s that store-bought jams never offer
02 -
- This jam must stay refrigerated and will keep for about one week, though it never lasts that long in my house
- The chia seeds continue absorbing liquid overnight, so the jam will be even thicker the next day
03 -
- Mash the berries while they're still hot since they soften and break down much easier than when cooled
- For the smoothest jam, blitz the cooked berries in a blender before adding the chia seeds