Ingredients
Blueberry Chia Jam
- 2 cups blueberries, fresh or frozen
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 Tbsp chia seeds
- Optional: 1 Tbsp maple syrup
- Optional: dash cinnamon
Raspberry Chia Jam
- 2 cups raspberries, fresh or frozen
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 Tbsp chia seeds
- Optional: 1 Tbsp maple syrup
- Optional: dash cinnamon
Apricot Chia Jam
- 2 cups ripe apricots, chopped into small pieces (about 4 large apricots or 5 small)
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 Tbsp chia seeds (white ones work best to maintain orange colour)
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 Tbsp pure maple syrup
Instructions
- Prepare and cook the fruit mixture: In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine your choice of fruits (blueberries, raspberries, or chopped apricots) with the water. Use a fork to mash and stir the fruits gently until they start to break down and soften, which should take about 5 minutes.
- Add chia seeds and optional flavorings: Stir in the chia seeds along with any optional ingredients like maple syrup, cinnamon, or vanilla extract for flavor enhancement. Continue to mash and cook the mixture for another 5 minutes, allowing the chia seeds to absorb liquid and start thickening the mixture.
- Thicken the jam off the heat: Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the chia seed fruit mixture to sit for about 10 minutes. During this rest period, the jam will thicken to a luscious, spreadable consistency as the chia seeds swell and gel.
- Store the jam: Once thickened, spoon the homemade chia jam into clean glass jars or containers. Seal and refrigerate to preserve freshness. The jam can be enjoyed chilled on toast, yogurt, or as a healthy topping for desserts.
Notes
- Using white chia seeds for apricot jam helps maintain the vibrant orange color of the fruit.
- The chia seeds naturally thicken the jam, eliminating the need for commercial pectin.
- Maple syrup and cinnamon are optional but add a subtle sweetness and spice.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can puree the fruit mixture before cooking.
- Store the jam in the refrigerator and consume within 1-2 weeks for best quality.
- Feel free to mix fruits or adjust sweetness according to your preference.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Condiments
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian