Delicious Chia Jam
The easiest and quickest way to make your own jam, with little or no added sugar!
Jam is, and always has been, a staple of childhood. It’s easy to store, versatile and universally loved by children and adults alike. Yet, most store-bought jams usually contain high amounts of sugar and not much whole fruit. This is where this lovely Chia Jam recipe differs from the rest! Firstly, it relies on the sweetness of the berries alone (rather than added sugar), for its amazing, fruit-bursting flavour - although you can always add a touch of honey, if desired, if berries are too sharp. Secondly, Chia Jam uses the magic of chia seeds to set the jam, so there is no need for access sugar, or fear of it not setting properly, making this a definite fool-proof recipe. Finally, it’s just so easy and quick to prepare, taking as little as 10 minutes cooking time, depending on the quantity you’re preparing. Storage is also straightforward, as Chia Jam can be placed directly in clean jars or airtight containers and stored in the fridge for up to two weeks – that is, if you can keep it for that long!
Chia seeds are an amazing super food that add to the nutritional value of this jam. To learn more about chia seeds, their incredible properties and health benefits, check out our Chia Seed Pudding blog here.
For our Boysenberry Chia Jam recipe below, we used frozen boysenberries, however, any type of fresh or frozen berry, and most fruits, would work.
Boysenberry Chia Jam
Recipe by Clean Plate
Ingredients:
2 cups frozen boysenberries
2 Tbsp chia seeds
1 Tbsp honey* (optional)
*Omit honey if serving Chia Jam to children under 1 year old.
Method:
Stew the berries over medium heat until they break down.
Add chia seeds and honey (if using) and mix through.
Turn off the heat and leave to set and cool, stirring occasionally.
Once cool, transfer jam to a clean, dry jar or container, to store (we reused a jam jar). Screw on lid.
Chia Jam will keep in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Serving Suggestions:
Chia Jam can be used just like store-bought jam. It’s perfect for sandwiches (we love jam and cream cheese!), spreading on toast, scones or pikelets, or using as a dip for fruit or mixed with natural yoghurt for an instant pudding. It’s also a great and healthier alternative for lunchboxes, as it can be very versatile, and easy to make and store.
Try out your own version and let us know how it goes!