Description
This Strawberry Chia Jam is a healthy, no refined sugar alternative to traditional jam, perfect for spreading on toast, mixing into oatmeal, or using as a natural sweetener in desserts. Made with fresh strawberries, pure maple syrup, lemon juice, and chia seeds, it thickens naturally as it cools, offering a deliciously sweet and slightly tangy flavor with added fiber and omega-3 from chia seeds.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 450 g fresh strawberries (or frozen)
- 50 ml pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (or lime juice)
- 25 g chia seeds
Instructions
- Prepare the strawberries: If using fresh strawberries, wash them well, remove the stems, and hull them to remove the green core. Slice the strawberries into quarters to help them cook down evenly.
- Cook the fruit mixture: Place the sliced strawberries, pure maple syrup, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Heat the mixture over medium-high heat, allowing it to come to a simmer. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and continue simmering for about 10-12 minutes, stirring frequently so the strawberries break down and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Add chia seeds: Turn off the heat and whisk in the chia seeds thoroughly. This will help thicken the jam as the seeds absorb the liquid. Allow the mixture to cool for 10-12 minutes, stirring often to prevent chia seed clumps.
- Store the jam: Transfer the jam into an airtight container or jar. Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks; the jam will continue to thicken as it chills. For longer storage, freeze the jam in suitable containers or ice cube trays for up to a couple of months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before use.
- Serve: Use the strawberry chia jam as you would regular jam—spread on bread or toast, stirred into oatmeal, atop pancakes or waffles, or as a flavorful filling for cupcakes and cakes.
Notes
- You can substitute frozen strawberries if fresh are not available. Thaw them first before cooking.
- The jam will thicken further as it cools and after refrigeration due to the chia seeds absorbing the liquid.
- This recipe contains no refined sugar, making it a healthier alternative to store-bought jams.
- Use an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent absorbing odors from other fridge items.
- Freezing in ice cube trays allows for easy portioning of jam servings.
