How to Make Sweet Strawberry Chia Jam at Home: A Simple & Healthy Recipe
In the world of jams, the strawberry flavor holds a sweet spot in many hearts. Its delightful taste, coupled with the burst of freshness, makes it a favorite. But what if I told you there’s a healthier, simpler way to enjoy this treat without the heaps of sugar and preservatives found in store-bought jams? Enter the Sweet Strawberry Chia Jam, a recipe that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat.
Why Chia?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s quickly talk about why we’re using chia seeds. Chia seeds are tiny powerhouses of nutrition. They’re loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, fiber, iron, and calcium. When mixed with liquid, they expand and turn gelatinous, making them the perfect natural thickener for our jam. This means no need for pectin or heaps of sugar to achieve that jammy texture.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of fresh strawberries (you can also use frozen if out of season)
- 2-4 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup (adjust according to your sweetness preference)
- 2 tablespoons of chia seeds
- Juice of half a lemon
That’s it. Just four simple ingredients.
Tools Needed:
- A medium saucepan
- A potato masher or fork (for mashing the strawberries)
- A jar or airtight container for storage
Instructions:
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Prepare the Strawberries: If you’re using fresh strawberries, rinse them well and cut off the stems. If they’re large, you might want to cut them into halves or quarters so they’ll cook down faster.
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Cook the Strawberries: Place the strawberries in your saucepan and set it over medium heat. As the strawberries heat up, they’ll begin to soften and release their natural juices. This is where the fun begins! Use your potato masher or fork to mash the strawberries to your desired consistency. Some people like their jam chunky, while others prefer it smoother – it’s totally up to you.
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Add Sweetness and Chia: Once the strawberries are mashed and bubbling gently, add your chosen sweetener. Start with the lower amount and add more to taste. Next, sprinkle in the chia seeds and stir well to combine. The chia seeds will start to swell and thicken the mixture.
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Simmer: Continue to simmer the mixture for about 5-10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to help achieve an even consistency. This simmering process allows the jam to thicken and the flavors to meld.
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Add Lemon Juice: After the jam has thickened to your liking, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the lemon juice. The lemon juice not only adds a bright note to the jam but also helps preserve the color and extend its shelf life.
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Cool and Store: Let the jam cool for a few minutes in the saucepan, then transfer it to a clean jar or airtight container. As it cools, the jam will continue to thicken, thanks to the chia seeds. Once at room temperature, screw on the lid, and store your jam in the refrigerator.
Enjoying Your Strawberry Chia Jam
Your Sweet Strawberry Chia Jam is ready to enjoy within a few hours of cooling, but it will taste even better the next day. Spread it on toast, swirl it into yogurt, dollop it on pancakes, or just enjoy it straight from the jar. This jam is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition, making it a guilt-free treat.
Shelf Life
Stored in an airtight container in the fridge, your Strawberry Chia Jam should last for up to two weeks. It’s a fresh, preservative-free product, so it doesn’t have the shelf life of commercial jams, but with its irresistible taste, it’s unlikely to last that long!
Conclusion
Making Sweet Strawberry Chia Jam is a delightful and simple way to savor the flavors of strawberries in a healthier, homemade form. This easy recipe is versatile, allowing you to adjust the sweetness and texture according to your preferences. Give it a try, and you might never go back to store-bought jams again. Enjoy your wholesome creation and the wonderful feeling of making something delightful and nutritious for yourself and your loved ones.