Cherry Berry Chia Jam Recipe
Introduction
This Cherry Berry Chia Jam is a quick and healthy way to enjoy homemade fruit preserves. Made with fresh cherries, strawberries, and chia seeds, it’s naturally sweetened with honey and perfect for spreading on toast or adding to yogurt.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cherries
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries
- Honey, to taste
- 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small stockpot, combine the cherries, strawberries, and honey. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, mashing the fruits with a fork or spoon until they break down into a juicy mush.
- Step 2: Remove the pot from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Stir in the juice of one lemon and the chia seeds until well combined.
- Step 3: Transfer the jam to the refrigerator and let it chill until it thickens. Store in an airtight container once cooled.
Tips & Variations
- Use frozen berries if fresh are out of season; thaw them before cooking.
- Adjust honey quantity to your preferred sweetness level or substitute with maple syrup for a different flavor.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract for extra warmth in flavor.
Storage
Store the jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Before using, give it a good stir if the chia seeds have settled. It can be served chilled or at room temperature. If it thickens too much, stir in a little water to loosen.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other fruits for this jam?
Yes, this recipe works well with many berries or stone fruits. Just ensure they are soft and juicy for the best texture.
Do I need to cook the chia seeds?
No, chia seeds don’t require cooking. They thicken the jam naturally when mixed in and chilled.
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Cherry Berry Chia Jam Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: About 1 cup 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Cherry Berry Chia Jam is a healthy, naturally sweetened spread combining fresh cherries, strawberries, lemon juice, honey, and chia seeds. Perfect for breakfast or snacks, this no-added-sugar jam uses chia seeds to thicken naturally, offering a nutritious and delicious option that’s easy to prepare on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Fruits
- 1/2 cup fresh cherries, pitted
- 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, hulled
- 1 lemon, juiced
Sweetener
- Honey, to taste (approximately 1-2 tablespoons)
Seeds
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
Instructions
- Combine and cook fruits: In a small stockpot, mix 1/2 cup of fresh cherries and 1/2 cup of fresh strawberries. Add honey to taste (start with about 1 tablespoon). Cook the mixture over medium heat for about 10 minutes, mashing the fruits periodically with a fork or spoon until they break down into a juicy mush.
- Add lemon juice and chia seeds: Remove the pot from heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Stir in the juice of one lemon and 2 tablespoons of chia seeds, mixing thoroughly to incorporate all ingredients.
- Chill and thicken: Transfer the jam to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the mixture to thicken for at least 2 hours or overnight before using.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen cherries and strawberries if fresh are unavailable. Thaw frozen fruit before cooking.
- Adjust the honey amount depending on your sweetness preference and the sweetness of the fruit.
- The chia seeds act as a natural thickener, so avoid cooking them to preserve their gel-forming properties.
- Store the jam refrigerated in an airtight container for up to two weeks.
- Serve on toast, yogurt, oatmeal, or as a topping for desserts.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Chia Jam, Cherry Jam, Berry Jam, Healthy Jam, No Sugar Jam, Homemade Jam, Low Fat Jam, Fruit Spread
