We could write a book about why you should make this blueberry chia jam recipe. For starters, it calls for just four ingredients. (You can even make it with three, depending on your preferences.) It’s also delicious, budget-friendly, and easy to customize. Oh, and did we mention it’s delicious?
This homemade chia jam can also be made with little to no added sugar. So, it’s a heck of a lot healthier than store-bought jam, which often has more high-fructose corn syrup than actual fruit!
The chia seeds are the real stars of the show, though. Since they absorb liquid and swell up, they’re perfect for creating a jam-like texture with ease. It also doesn’t hurt that chia seeds offer important nutrients like omega-3 dats, fiber, and antioxidants.
To use chia seeds to make blueberry jam, you’ll need four ingredients: blueberries, coconut water, sugar, and chia seeds. If you don’t have coconut water, use plain water or even fresh-squeezed orange juice. You can also use white sugar, coconut sugar, or maple syrup. Alternatively, you can ditch the sweetener altogether. The choice is yours.
In a small bowl, combine the chia seeds and coconut water. Set aside for 20 minutes, or until thick and gel-like.
While the chia seeds are soaking up the liquid, place the blueberries in a small pot over medium-low heat. Use a large spoon or fork to smash the berries and release the juices. Simmer for 10 minutes, mixing frequently. Make sure the berries do not boil.
Add the sweetener, if using. Mix well and simmer for another 10 minutes.
Remove from the heat and let cool.
Check on your chia seeds. If the mixture looks like a gel, they’re ready to go.
Add the chia seeds to the pot of cooled blueberries.
Stir until the seeds are evenly dispersed. As the mixture continues to cool, it will thicken.
To store your homemade jam, place it in a sealed container (like a mason jar or old salsa jar) and refrigerate. The jam will last for about 7 days.
You can use other fruits if blueberries aren’t your jam. (Pun absolutely intended.) Juicy fruits like strawberries, raspberries, and peaches are delicious alternatives. Don’t be afraid to combine multiple fruits, too.
If your fruits are tart, you may want to use more sweetener. If the fruits are already quite sweet, swap the sweetener for 1 tablespoon of lemon juice.
We love eating this blueberry chia jam with oatmeal, bagels, and even non-dairy ice cream. Yum!
Blueberry Chia Jam
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cup blueberries
- 3 tablespoons chia seeds
- ¾ cup coconut water
- 2 to 3 tablespoons sugar or maple syrup
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine the chia seeds and coconut water. Let sit for at least 20 minutes.
- Add the blueberries to a small pot over medium-low heat. Smash the berries with a large spoon to release the juices. Continue smashing and mixing for 10 minutes.
- Add the sugar or maple syrup, if using. Mix well.
- Simmer the berries for another 10 minutes. Make sure they do not boil.
- Remove from heat and let cool. Add the thickened chia mixture and stir. Store in the refrigerator for about 7 days.
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I am going to try this. Thanks!
Let us know what you think!