Strawberry Chia Jam

This Strawberry Chia Jam recipe is a healthy, homemade spread made with fresh strawberries, chia seeds, and natural sweeteners like maple syrup. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy a low-sugar, gluten-free, and vegan jam with the added benefits of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Perfect for spreading on toast, yogurt, or pancakes, this jam is a healthier alternative to store-bought options. With a refreshing hint of lime juice and zest, this strawberry chia jam is not only delicious but also customizable to your taste with various fruit and sweetener options. Ideal for meal prepping or as a topping for breakfast and snacks!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups frozen strawberries
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (plus zest of 1 large lime)
• 2 tablespoons water
• ⅓ cup maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons chia seeds

Instructions:

1. In a small skillet, combine the frozen strawberries, lime juice, and water. Simmer over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Halfway through the cooking process, use a fork to mash the strawberries into a chunky yet uniform texture.
2. Once the berries have broken down, stir in the maple syrup, vanilla extract, chia seeds, and lime zest. Mix well for about 30 seconds.
3. Turn off the heat and let the mixture sit for 5-7 minutes. The chia seeds will thicken the jam to the desired consistency.
4. Transfer the jam to a jar and refrigerate. The texture will firm up further once chilled.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Strawberry Chia Jam is the perfect homemade spread for those looking for a healthier alternative to store-bought jams. Made with simple, whole ingredients like frozen strawberries, chia seeds, and maple syrup, it’s naturally sweetened and packed with fiber and healthy omega-3 fatty acids. The addition of fresh lime juice and zest gives the jam a refreshing citrus kick, elevating the flavor. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, with no added preservatives or artificial ingredients!

Tips

• For a smoother jam: If you prefer a smoother consistency, feel free to blend the mixture after cooking to remove any chunky bits before adding the chia seeds.
• Consistency: If the jam becomes too thick, you can add a little more water or lime juice to reach your desired texture.
• Adjust sweetness: Depending on the sweetness of your strawberries, you can adjust the amount of maple syrup to suit your taste.

Variations and Substitutions

• Other fruits: Feel free to swap out the strawberries for other fruits, such as blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries. You can even mix different fruits for a custom jam.
• Sweetener options: If you prefer, you can substitute maple syrup with honey, agave, or coconut sugar.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger for an extra flavor boost.

FAQs

• Can I use fresh strawberries instead of frozen?
  Yes, fresh strawberries work just as well in this recipe. You can use the same amount of fresh berries as the recipe calls for frozen ones.
• How long will the jam last in the fridge?
  The jam will last up to 1-2 weeks when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Can I freeze this jam?
  Yes, you can freeze the jam! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and freezing for up to 3 months. Let it thaw in the fridge before using.

Serving Suggestions

This homemade Strawberry Chia Jam is perfect for spreading on toast, English muffins, or pancakes. It’s also a delicious topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or parfaits. Use it as a filling for homemade pastries, or mix it into smoothies for a natural fruit boost. For a savory twist, pair it with cheese and crackers for an easy appetizer.