Strawberry Chia Seed Jam

There’s something magical about making your own jam, especially when it comes to Strawberry Chia Seed Jam. I remember the first time I tried to create it. The sweet scent of ripe strawberries filled my kitchen, and I felt an overwhelming sense of nostalgia. Growing up, my grandmother would spend her weekends preserving fruits, and now I was following in her footsteps, turning fresh strawberries into a luscious jam that I could enjoy all year round. This is not just any jam; it’s naturally sweetened with pure maple syrup, which enhances the strawberries’ natural flavors without overwhelming them.

As I stirred the bubbling mixture, the vibrant red hue reminded me of summer days spent indulging in homemade treats. The addition of chia seeds not only thickens the jam beautifully but also adds a delightful nutritional boost rich in omega-3s and fiber. I couldn’t wait to spread this delicious jam on my morning toast or drizzle it over yogurt, making breakfast a little more special.

The simplicity of this recipe is another reason I love it. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create something truly fabulous. The lemon juice brightens the flavor, while a pinch of cinnamon gives it a warm, comforting aroma. Plus, this jam is incredibly versatile; it can be used as a filling for pastries, a topping for pancakes, or even swirled into smoothies. Every jar I make feels like a little piece of summer captured and preserved for the colder months.

So, if you’re looking for a way to bring a taste of summer into your home, or simply want to impress your friends with a homemade delight, give this Strawberry Chia Seed Jam a try. It’s as easy as it is rewarding, and trust me, once you taste it, you’ll want to make it again and again.

Key Ingredients for Strawberry Chia Seed Jam

When it comes to creating the perfect Strawberry Chia Seed Jam, the key ingredients are simple yet powerful. Each component plays a unique role, ensuring that the final product not only tastes incredible but also offers health benefits. The combination of strawberries with chia seeds provides a delightful texture and richness, while the pure maple syrup and lemon juice add the right touch of sweetness and brightness. Let’s delve into these ingredients and discover why they work so well together.

• 4 cups fresh strawberries – Chopped and ready to go, these strawberries are the star of the jam. Their natural sweetness and rich color make the jam vibrant and delicious.
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup – A natural sweetener that enhances the flavor of the strawberries without being overpowering. It adds a depth of flavor that granulated sugar simply can’t match.
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – This brightens the overall flavor of the jam and helps balance the sweetness of the strawberries and maple syrup.
• 1 pinch ground cinnamon – A warm spice that adds depth and complexity to the jam, making it more than just a sweet spread.
• 1 pinch sea salt – A dash of salt enhances the flavors and rounds out the sweetness, allowing the bright flavors to shine.
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds – These tiny seeds swell and thicken the jam, providing a lovely texture and a host of nutritional benefits, including fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract – While not traditional in all jams, this gives a subtle warmth and richness that elevates the overall flavor.

Cooking Method for Strawberry Chia Seed Jam

Cooking Strawberry Chia Seed Jam is an enjoyable process that fills your kitchen with the sweet aroma of strawberries. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll soon have a delicious homemade jam ready for your toast, yogurt, or dessert. Let’s get cooking!

1. Start by placing the chopped strawberries, pure maple syrup, and lemon juice into a medium saucepan. Set the heat to medium-high and cover the pan. Watching the mixture bubble away is a treat as the sweet scent wafts through the air.
2. Allow the mixture to reach a full boil. Once it’s bubbling vigorously, reduce the heat to maintain a controlled boil. You want the strawberries to soften nicely, which should take about 10 to 15 minutes. During this time, the strawberries will break down and release their juices.
3. Once the strawberries are softened, take a fork or potato masher and mash the mixture to your desired consistency. I personally love leaving some chunky bits for texture, which adds to the rustic feel of homemade jam.
4. Now, add the ground cinnamon, sea salt, and chia seeds to the mixture. Stir well to combine everything. The chia seeds will help thicken your jam as they absorb some of the liquid.
5. Cook the jam uncovered for about 8 more minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the mixture thickening, creating that perfect jam texture. Keep an eye on it to avoid sticking to the bottom of the pan.
6. Once it reaches your desired consistency, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for around 10 minutes. Allowing it to cool slightly will help it thicken even more.
7. After cooling, stir in the pure vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor. This little addition makes a big difference!
8. Transfer the jam to a bowl and refrigerate it until chilled. If you want to speed up the process, pop the bowl in the freezer for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9. Once chilled, carefully pour the jam into a sanitized jar. Seal it tightly, and enjoy the satisfaction of your homemade Strawberry Chia Seed Jam.
10. Store the jam in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to two weeks. Enjoy the taste of summer all year round!

Recipe Variations about Strawberry Chia Seed Jam

There are countless ways to enjoy and customize your Strawberry Chia Seed Jam. Below are some ideas to inspire you to get creative with this versatile recipe.

• Mix It Up: Try combining strawberries with other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a mixed berry jam.
• Spices: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom for a unique twist on flavor.
• Sweeteners: If you’re looking for a different sweetener, consider using honey or agave syrup instead of maple syrup.
• Serving Suggestions: Use the jam as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or ice cream. It also works beautifully in baked goods like muffins or cakes.
• Homemade Gifts: Consider making small jars of jam to give as gifts. They make thoughtful presents for friends and family.
• Storage: Keep your jam in airtight containers in the refrigerator for optimal freshness. You can also freeze portions for later use.
• Flavor Boost: For a zesty flavor, add a splash of orange juice or zest to the mixture while cooking.

Best Served With

When it comes to enjoying your Strawberry Chia Seed Jam, the possibilities are endless. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve this delightful spread:

• Toast: Spread it on warm, toasted bread for a simple breakfast treat or snack.
• Yogurt: Swirl it into your morning yogurt for a burst of fruity flavor and added sweetness.
• Pancakes: Serve it as a topping for pancakes or waffles, adding a homemade touch to your brunch.
• Cheesecake: Use it as a topping for cheesecake or as a filling in pastries for a delightful dessert.
• Smoothies: Blend it into smoothies for a natural sweetness and added fruitiness.
• Seasonal Occasions: Perfect for summer picnics or holiday gatherings, bringing a taste of summer into festive meals.
• Gift Giving: Present it in decorative jars as a homemade gift for friends and family.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Strawberry Chia Seed Jam is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings the sweetness of summer into your kitchen, one jar at a time. With its fresh ingredients and natural sweetness, it’s a delightful addition to any meal. I encourage you to give it a try and savor the flavors of this homemade treat. You won’t regret it!

Strawberry Chia Seed Jam

The perfect homemade treat to satisfy your sweet cravings! This Strawberry Chia Seed Jam is naturally sweetened and packed with flavor. Enjoy it on toast, yogurt, or as a delightful gift. Make your kitchen feel like summer with this easy recipe tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 3 cups

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 50

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 4 cups fresh strawberries Chopped
• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup To taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 pinch ground cinnamon
• 1 pinch sea salt
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Equipment

• Food Processor
• Frying Pan
• Large Pot
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. Start by placing the chopped strawberries, pure maple syrup, and lemon juice into a medium saucepan. Set the heat to medium-high and cover the pan. Watching the mixture bubble away is a treat as the sweet scent wafts through the air.
2. Allow the mixture to reach a full boil. Once it’s bubbling vigorously, reduce the heat to maintain a controlled boil. You want the strawberries to soften nicely, which should take about 10 to 15 minutes. During this time, the strawberries will break down and release their juices.
3. Once the strawberries are softened, take a fork or potato masher and mash the mixture to your desired consistency. I personally love leaving some chunky bits for texture, which adds to the rustic feel of homemade jam.
4. Now, add the ground cinnamon, sea salt, and chia seeds to the mixture. Stir well to combine everything. The chia seeds will help thicken your jam as they absorb some of the liquid.
5. Cook the jam uncovered for about 8 more minutes, stirring occasionally. You'll notice the mixture thickening, creating that perfect jam texture. Keep an eye on it to avoid sticking to the bottom of the pan.
6. Once it reaches your desired consistency, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for around 10 minutes. Allowing it to cool slightly will help it thicken even more.
7. After cooling, stir in the pure vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor. This little addition makes a big difference!
8. Transfer the jam to a bowl and refrigerate it until chilled. If you want to speed up the process, pop the bowl in the freezer for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9. Once chilled, carefully pour the jam into a sanitized jar. Seal it tightly, and enjoy the satisfaction of your homemade Strawberry Chia Seed Jam.
10. Store the jam in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to two weeks. Enjoy the taste of summer all year round!

Notes

When making Strawberry Chia Seed Jam, it’s important to be mindful of fresh ingredients for the best flavor. Always use ripe strawberries and store your jam in clean jars. You can customize the sweetness according to your taste and experiment with different fruits for unique flavors!

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Meet Zara Knight

I founded Zest Home Recipes because I believe home cooking should never be boring. My mission is to wake up your palate with recipes that are vibrant, easy, and full of life. I personally cook, photograph, and approve every dish on this site to ensure it brings a spark of joy and a burst of flavor to your kitchen table.