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
Scale
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
