Blueberry Chia Seed Jam
Blueberry Chia Seed Jam is a naturally sweet, nutrient-rich alternative to traditional jams—made with just a handful of wholesome ingredients. Bursting with fresh blueberry flavor and thickened with chia seeds (instead of refined sugars and pectin), this jam is incredibly easy, fast, and healthy. It’s great on toast, yogurt, oatmeal, or even stirred into smoothies.
Prep & Cook Time:
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10–15 minutes
Cool Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: ~30–35 minutes
Yield: ~1 cup (8 servings of 2 tbsp each)
Ingredients:
2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
1–2 tbsp maple syrup, honey, or agave (adjust to taste)
1 tbsp lemon juice (for brightness)
2 tbsp chia seeds
½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the Berries:
In a small saucepan over medium heat, add the blueberries.
Stir occasionally and cook until they start to break down and release juice (about 5–7 minutes).
Mash the berries lightly with the back of a spoon or a potato masher for a smoother texture.
2. Add Sweetener and Lemon Juice:
Stir in the maple syrup (or preferred sweetener) and lemon juice.
Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
3. Stir in Chia Seeds:
Remove from heat.
Stir in chia seeds and vanilla (if using).
Let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes to thicken as it cools.
4. Cool & Store:
Once thickened and cooled, transfer to a clean glass jar or container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Notes & Tips:
Texture: For smoother jam, blend briefly with an immersion blender before adding chia seeds.Frozen berries work just as well—no need to thaw beforehand.
Flavor variations: Add a pinch of cinnamon, a few drops of almond extract, or mix in other berries like raspberries or blackberries.
No-cook option: Use thawed frozen berries, mash them raw, and mix with chia seeds and sweetener—let thicken overnight in the fridge.
Frequently asked questions FAQs:
Q: Can I use other fruits?
A: Absolutely! Try raspberries, strawberries, peaches, or a berry mix. The method stays the same.
Q: Is it safe to can this jam?
A: No, this chia jam is not suitable for traditional canning due to its low sugar and acidity. Store in the fridge or freezer.
Q: How do I make it sweeter or tarter?
A: Add more maple syrup or lemon juice based on your taste preference.
Q: Can I skip the lemon juice?
A: Lemon juice adds brightness and helps preserve flavor, but you can skip it if desired.
Q: Is this jam keto-friendly?
A: Use a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or stevia, and it becomes a great keto option.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 45 kcal
Carbohydrates: 8 g
Fiber: 3 g
Net Carbs: 5 g
Protein: 1 g
Fat: 1.5 g
Sugar: 5 g (from fruit and added sweetener)
Cholesterol: 0 mg
Sodium: 0 mg
Omega-3 fatty acids: ~1,000 mg (from chia seeds)
Note: Nutrition may vary depending on sweetener and berries used.