Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Cooling Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 12 servings
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon honey or pure maple syrup (optional)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- Pinch of sea salt
Equipment Needed
- Small saucepan
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Potato masher or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Clean glass jar with lid
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Blueberries
Place the blueberries into a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally as the berries begin to soften and release their juices. This usually takes about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Mash the Fruit
Use a potato masher or the back of a fork to gently mash the blueberries. Leave some larger pieces if you enjoy a chunkier jam, or mash thoroughly for a smoother texture.
Step 3: Add Flavor
Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, vanilla extract, honey or maple syrup if using, and a pinch of sea salt. Mix everything well and allow it to simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 4: Stir in Chia Seeds
Remove the saucepan from the heat and immediately stir in the chia seeds. Mix continuously for about one minute to ensure the seeds are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 5: Allow the Jam to Thicken
Let the mixture sit for approximately 10 to 15 minutes. During this time, the chia seeds will absorb the liquid and naturally thicken the jam.
Step 6: Taste and Adjust
Taste the jam and adjust the sweetness if desired by adding a little more honey or maple syrup. If you’d like more acidity, add a small squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Step 7: Store
Transfer the cooled jam into a clean glass jar with a tightly fitting lid. Refrigerate before serving.
Tips for Success
- Frozen blueberries work just as well as fresh blueberries.
- For a smoother consistency, blend the cooked blueberries before adding the chia seeds.
- Add cinnamon for a warm flavor variation.
- Stir occasionally while the jam cools to prevent the chia seeds from settling.
- Make a double batch if you enjoy meal prepping.
Serving Suggestions
This healthy blueberry chia seed jam pairs beautifully with:
- Whole grain toast
- English muffins
- Greek yogurt
- Overnight oats
- Pancakes
- Waffles
- Cottage cheese
- Smoothie bowls
- Peanut butter sandwiches
- Homemade biscuits
Storage Instructions
Store the jam in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Because this recipe contains no preservatives, it is best enjoyed fresh.
For longer storage, freeze the jam in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
Recipe Variations
- Replace blueberries with raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries.
- Add orange zest for a bright citrus flavor.
- Mix blueberries with blackberries for a mixed berry version.
- Add a pinch of ground cinnamon or ginger for extra warmth.
- Stir in a teaspoon of vanilla bean paste for a richer flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Naturally sweetened
- No refined sugar required
- Rich in antioxidants
- High in dietary fiber
- Naturally gluten-free
- Vegan when made with maple syrup
- No commercial pectin needed
- Ready in just 30 minutes
- Great for meal prep
- Family-friendly and delicious
Nutrition Information
Per Serving (Approximate)
- Calories: 38
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Protein: 1 g
- Total Fat: 1.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 5 mg
- Potassium: 45 mg
- Vitamin C: 6 mg
- Calcium: 30 mg
- Iron: 0.4 mg
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: 1.2 g