Description
This easy and healthy chia seed jam recipe uses fresh berries, chia seeds, and a touch of maple syrup to create a naturally sweet and nutritious fruit spread. It’s perfect for toast, yogurt, or as a topping, made quickly on the stovetop without added pectin or refined sugars.
Ingredients
Scale
Jam Ingredients
- 3 cups fresh berries of choice (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
- ¼ cup filtered water
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 2–3 tbsp chia seeds
- Juice of ½ lemon
Instructions
- Simmer the 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, stirring occasionally. Mash some of the berries gently while cooking to encourage them to break down and release their juices.
- Incorporate Chia Seeds: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the chia seeds until they are well mixed into the berry mixture. Let the jam sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the chia seeds to thicken the jam naturally.
- Add Lemon Juice and Store: Stir in the juice of half a lemon to add brightness and preserve the flavor. Transfer the jam into a clean glass jar and store it in the refrigerator. Use the jam within 7 to 14 days for the best freshness.
Notes
- Use fresh or thawed frozen berries for the best texture and flavor.
- Maple syrup sweetness can be adjusted or substituted with honey or agave nectar if preferred.
- Chia seeds act as a natural thickener, so no pectin is needed.
- Store jam in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and extend shelf life.
- Try mixing berry varieties for a custom flavor blend.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: chia seed jam, homemade berry jam, healthy fruit spread, vegan jam, no pectin jam, easy jam recipe
