Strawberry Chia Jam (No Refined Sugar) Recipe
This Strawberry Chia Jam is a healthy, no refined sugar alternative to traditional jam, sweetened naturally with pure maple syrup and thickened with nutrient-rich chia seeds. It’s quick to prepare, simmering fresh strawberries to a luscious consistency, then cooled to set. Perfect for spreading on toast, mixing into oatmeal, or using as a natural filling for baked goods.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Jam Ingredients
- 450 g fresh strawberries (or frozen strawberries)
- 50 ml pure maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (or lime juice)
- 25 g chia seeds
Instructions
- Prepare Strawberries: If using fresh strawberries, wash them thoroughly, remove the stems, and hull them. Slice the strawberries into quarters to allow for even cooking.
- Cook the Mixture: Place the strawberries, maple syrup, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Heat over medium-high heat until the mixture begins to simmer and bubble. Reduce heat to medium and continue simmering for 10-12 minutes, stirring often to prevent burning and help the strawberries break down.
- Add Chia Seeds: Once the strawberries are softened and broken down, turn off the heat. Whisk in the chia seeds, removing the saucepan from the heat. Stir the mixture frequently for 10-12 minutes as it cools to help break up any chia seed lumps and to allow the seeds to absorb the liquid and thicken the jam.
- Store the Jam: Transfer the chia jam into an airtight jar or container. Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks; the jam will continue to thicken as it chills. Alternatively, freeze the jam in a suitable container or ice cube tray for up to a couple of months, defrosting overnight in the fridge before use.
- Serve: Enjoy the strawberry chia jam as a spread on crusty bread or toast, mixed into oatmeal, drizzled over pancakes or waffles, or used as a natural filling for cupcakes and cakes.
Notes
- Use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are not available – they work just as well.
- The jam thickens more as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems runny initially.
- Maple syrup serves as a natural sweetener; you can adjust the amount to your taste.
- Chia seeds not only thicken the jam but also add extra fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein.
- Store the jam in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
Keywords: strawberry jam, chia jam, no refined sugar jam, healthy jam, natural sweetener, maple syrup jam, easy homemade jam, low fat jam, vegan jam
