Description
This Homemade Blueberry Chia Seed Jam is a quick, healthy, and naturally sweetened spread made with fresh or frozen blueberries, chia seeds, and a touch of honey or maple syrup. It’s a perfect nutritious addition to toast, oatmeal, or yogurt, combining the antioxidant benefits of blueberries with the fiber and omega-3s from chia seeds.
Ingredients
Scale
Jam Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Blueberries: In a medium saucepan, combine the blueberries, honey (if using), and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the blueberries begin to break down and release their juices.
- Mash Blueberries: Use a fork or potato masher to mash the blueberries to your desired consistency, leaving some chunks if you prefer a rustic jam texture.
- Add Chia Seeds and Water: Stir in the chia seeds and water into the blueberry mixture. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid, thickening the jam.
- Finish the Jam: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, if using. Let the jam cool to room temperature before transferring it to a jar or airtight container.
- Chill and Serve: Refrigerate the jam for at least 1 hour to allow it to thicken further. Enjoy it on toast, oatmeal, yogurt, or as a dessert topping.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen blueberries depending on availability; frozen fruit works well and should be thawed slightly before cooking.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less honey or maple syrup, or omit it for a naturally tart jam.
- If you prefer a smoother jam, blend the blueberry mixture before adding chia seeds.
- This jam can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- Chia seeds not only thicken the jam but also add nutritional benefits like fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
