Name: Easy Strawberry Chia Jam
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 5 cups strawberries (rinsed, hulled, and cut); 1/4 cup honey (or maple syrup); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 tablespoons chia seeds

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The Easy Strawberry Chia Jam is more than just a sweet spread; it’s a nostalgic journey back to my childhood summers spent in my grandmother’s kitchen. I can still remember the juicy strawberries picked fresh from the garden, their vibrant red hue beckoning us. We would gather around, our little hands eagerly mashing the fruits, watching as they transformed into a delightful jam. There’s something magical about crafting your own jam—it’s not just about the taste; it’s about the memories you create along the way. Whether spread on warm toast in the morning or swirled into yogurt for a midday snack, this Easy Strawberry Chia Jam encapsulates the essence of summer. Plus, with just a few simple ingredients, it’s incredibly easy to whip up! The best part? It’s packed with chia seeds, which not only thicken the jam but also add a nutritional punch, making it a guilt-free treat that you can enjoy any time of the day.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
25 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
120 kcal

Protein:
1 g

Diet:
Paleo, Vegan, Gluten-Free

Fat:
0 g

Tools Used:
Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Saucepan

Why This Easy Strawberry Chia Jam Works

Healthy and Nutritious

One of the reasons I adore this recipe is its health benefits. The chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, making this jam a guilt-free indulgence. You can savor the sweetness of strawberries while simultaneously nourishing your body.

Quick and Easy

You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to create something delicious. The Easy Strawberry Chia Jam can be ready in under thirty minutes, perfect for anyone with a busy lifestyle. Just a little prep and you’ll have a delightful jam you made yourself!

Versatile Use

This jam isn’t just for spreading on toast. It’s a versatile addition to many dishes. Use it in smoothies, as a topping for pancakes, or even as a filling for pastries. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to explore your creativity in the kitchen.

Natural Sweetness

I appreciate that this recipe relies on the natural sweetness of strawberries and a touch of honey or maple syrup. It’s a refreshing change from store-bought jams loaded with artificial sweeteners and preservatives. You know exactly what you’re putting in your body.

Seasonal Delight

This jam is a celebration of spring! With strawberries in season, it’s the perfect time to make this delicious spread. It’s a lovely way to capture the flavors of the season and enjoy them year-round.

Family Tradition

Making jam is a wonderful tradition to pass down through generations. Gather your loved ones and get them involved in the process. Not only does it create great memories, but everyone will appreciate the homemade jam together!

Ingredients Overview for Easy Strawberry Chia Jam

The ingredients for this Easy Strawberry Chia Jam are simple yet delightful. Each component plays a crucial role, working together to create a luscious, sweet spread. The star of the show is, of course, the strawberries, which bring a burst of flavor and freshness. Coupled with chia seeds, which provide a satisfying texture and nutrition, this jam is a wholesome choice. Let’s dive into the key players!

5 cups strawberries – Rinsed, hulled, and cut. The base of your jam, these strawberries provide natural sweetness and vibrant flavor.
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup – A natural sweetener that complements the strawberries perfectly, adding just the right amount of sweetness.
1 tablespoon lemon juice – This adds acidity, balancing the sweetness of the strawberries and enhancing the overall flavor profile.
2 tablespoons chia seeds – These magical little seeds not only help thicken the jam, but they’re also packed with nutrients, adding a healthy twist.

Recipe Directions for Easy Strawberry Chia Jam

Making your own jam might seem daunting, but with the Easy Strawberry Chia Jam, it’s a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious homemade jam that’s perfect for any meal.

Start by bringing a pot to the kitchen. Add the rinsed and hulled strawberries, the sweetener (be it honey or maple syrup), and the lemon juice. Let the mixture sit for about five minutes. This step helps the strawberries release their juices, creating a flavorful base.
Turn the heat to medium and gently mash down the strawberries with a fork or a potato masher. You want to break them down a bit, but don’t worry about making it completely smooth. The chunks will add texture to your jam!
Allow the mixture to come to a simmer. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally. Let it cook at a simmer for about five minutes. During this time, you’ll notice the strawberries breaking down further and the mixture starting to thicken.
Now it’s time to add the chia seeds. Stir them into the mixture, ensuring they’re evenly distributed. Continue to simmer for another ten to fifteen minutes. This is where the magic happens, as the chia seeds absorb the liquid and help the jam to thicken even more.
Keep stirring frequently to prevent sticking. You’ll want to check the consistency. If it coats the back of a spoon, you know it’s ready! Once it thickens to your desired texture, remove it from heat.
Let the jam cool in the pot for a few minutes. As it cools, it will thicken even more. Once it’s at room temperature, transfer your Easy Strawberry Chia Jam into air-tight containers.
Store the jam in the fridge for up to ten days. Enjoy spreading it on your favorite toasted bread or mixing it into yogurt!

Things Worth Knowing

Texture matters: You can adjust the texture of your jam by mashing the strawberries to your preference. For chunkier jam, mash less!
Sweetness level: Feel free to adjust the amount of honey or maple syrup based on your taste buds. Some strawberries can be sweeter than others!
Chia seeds: Allow the jam to sit for a while once made so the chia seeds can fully absorb the liquid, enhancing the thickness.
Storage tips: Use clean, dry jars to store your jam to extend its shelf life.

Tips and Tricks about Easy Strawberry Chia Jam

Creating the perfect jam is an art, and I’d love to share some tips to make your experience even better! Here are some insights to keep in mind:

Storage: Store your Easy Strawberry Chia Jam in clean, dry glass jars to keep it fresh. Ensure they are tightly sealed to maintain flavor.
Freezing: Can you freeze this? Yes! This jam freezes well. Just make sure to leave some space in the jars, as it will expand when frozen.
Pairing: Serve your jam with scones, pancakes, or as a filling in pastries. It also works beautifully as a topping for oatmeal or yogurt!
Experiment: Customize your jam by adding other fruits along with the strawberries. Try adding a handful of raspberries or blueberries for an exciting twist!
Batch size: Consider doubling the recipe if you want to share your homemade goodness with friends and family.

Serving Ideas for Easy Strawberry Chia Jam

Serving your Easy Strawberry Chia Jam is just as delightful as making it! Here are some fun and creative ways to enjoy this sweet treat:

Breakfast Delight: Spread the jam on warm toast or bagels for a refreshing start to your day.
Smoothie Boost: Add a spoonful of jam to your morning smoothie for a burst of flavor and natural sweetness.
Cheese Board Star: Include your Easy Strawberry Chia Jam as part of a cheese board. It pairs wonderfully with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese.
Dessert Topping: Use it as a topping for panna cotta, cheesecake, or ice cream, adding a fresh twist to your desserts.
Picnic Essential: Bring your homemade jam along on picnics. It’s a fantastic companion for sandwiches and snacks!
Gifting: Package the jam in pretty jars with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift during holidays or special occasions.

FAQ

Absolutely! Frozen strawberries work perfectly for the Easy Strawberry Chia Jam. Just make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid before starting the recipe. This allows you to enjoy the jam all year round, even when fresh strawberries are out of season!

This jam will last up to ten days in the refrigerator. To keep it fresh, store it in a clean, airtight container. If you’re making a larger batch, you can also freeze it, which can extend its shelf life considerably!

Yes! The beauty of making your own jam is that you can adjust the sweetness to your taste. If you prefer your jam less sweet, reduce the amount of honey or maple syrup. You can also experiment by using other natural sweeteners!

Chia seeds are small seeds packed with nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. In this jam, they serve as a natural thickener, giving the jam its delightful texture while adding health benefits. They absorb liquid and expand, making them perfect for creating a luscious jam!

Conclusion

The Easy Strawberry Chia Jam is a delightful blend of flavors and memories that you can enjoy any time of the year. Its simple ingredients and quick preparation make it a must-try for anyone who loves homemade treats. I encourage you to try this recipe—it’s not just about making jam, but about creating something special to share with those you love.