No refined sugar and just as tasty as traditional jam, this Healthy Strawberry Chia Jam is about to become a breakfast favorite.
Whenever I come home from a trip to the health food store and start unpacking my groceries, my husband always jokes about the various bags of “bird seeds” I’ve bought again. I get it. There’s the usual stash: green pumpkin seeds, grain-like hemp seeds, toasted sesame seeds, tiny teardrop-shaped sunflower seeds, shiny brown flax seeds, and, of course, my favorite, chia seeds. These seeds are great in everything from hearty grain bowls to baked goods, but like flax seeds, chia seeds offer a host of culinary superpowers. And I’m not exaggerating.
Beyond their nutritional benefits, chia seeds work as a natural thickener, making them perfect for overnight oats, puddings, and healthy jam recipes like this strawberry chia jam. Instead of traditional sugar or pectin, chia seeds absorb the fruit’s liquid, creating a thick, jammy consistency. The best part? They actually make the jam healthier, adding fiber, protein, and good fats.
This jam is a breeze to make and ready in a fraction of the time of traditional jam. You’ll love its bright, zingy flavor and the beautiful, vibrant color it brings to your breakfasts and desserts.
Is This Strawberry Chia Jam Healthy?
You better believe it! Chia seeds are a good source of antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids. Strawberries are naturally low in calories and a source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Unlike traditional jam recipes, which rely on large amounts of refined sugar to thicken and preserve the fruit, this jam doesn’t need it. The only sweetener used is honey or agave, though you can also substitute date syrup for a whole-food, natural option. In fact, if your strawberries are perfectly ripe and in season, you may not need any added sweetener at all!
The Almighty Chia Seed
The chia seed is the ultimate proof that good things come in small packages. Classified as a superfood, this tiny but mighty nutritional powerhouse is as versatile as it is healthy. Chia seeds can absorb up to ten times their weight in liquid, forming a gel-like layer that naturally thickens mixtures. In fact, chia seeds can even be used to make flax “eggs” for cakes, muffins, and other baked goods. Per egg, simply mix one tablespoon of ground chia seeds with three tablespoons of water. Leave this for ten minutes until it becomes gelatinous, and use it instead of eggs. Chia can also be used to thicken smoothies and salad dressings. Of course, you can also sprinkle it on salads, bowls, oats, breakfast cereals, yogurt, and even ice cream. Plenty of reasons to stock up on these almighty seeds!
How To Make Ahead And Store
If stored in an airtight container or mason jar, this strawberry chia jam will stay good for up to 1 week. The jam can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
Strawberry jam is perfect on a piece of warm, buttered toast. It adds a fruity touch to a thick slice of this Almond Flour Banana Bread. I love to dollop it over a bowl of Easy Overnight Steel-Cut Oats or even on a stack of Sourdough Waffles.
You can use the jam in other recipes that call for traditional jam as well, such as this Healthy Stuffed French Toast With PB & J. Enough reasons to get into the kitchen and try this jam recipe, I’d say!
Ingredients
- 2 cups strawberries, roughly chopped (300g)
- 4 teaspoons water
- 2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- 4 teaspoons honey or agave
- 4 teaspoons chia seeds
Instructions
- Place the strawberries, water, and lemon juice into a large saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and cook, stirring frequently, until the strawberries begin to break down, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and mash them with a potato masher.
- Return to medium heat, stir in the honey and chia seeds, and simmer until thick, about 5 minutes.
- Transfer to an air-tight container and let cool to room temperature on the counter. The jam will thicken a lot.
- Refrigerate and devour when desired!
Tips & Notes:
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
Leave a Comment