Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen berries (e.g., strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or a mix)
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1-2 tablespoons water (optional, depending on the juiciness of the berries)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Berries:
- If using fresh berries, rinse them and remove any stems or leaves. For larger berries like strawberries, chop them into smaller pieces.
- Cook the Berries:
- Place the berries in a medium-sized saucepan over medium heat. If the berries are not very juicy, add 1-2 tablespoons of water to prevent sticking.
- Cook the berries, stirring occasionally, until they start to break down and release their juices (about 5-10 minutes).
- Mash the Berries:
- Use a fork or potato masher to mash the berries to your desired consistency. If you like a chunkier jam, leave some pieces whole.
- Add Chia Seeds and Lemon Juice:
- Stir in the chia seeds and lemon juice. The chia seeds will help thicken the jam as they absorb the liquid.
- Simmer and Thicken:
- Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. The jam will thicken as it cools, thanks to the chia seeds.
- Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the jam and adjust the sweetness if desired. If you find it needs a bit more sweetness, you can add a natural sweetener like a bit of honey, maple syrup, or a pinch of stevia. However, this is optional and can be skipped for a completely sugar-free version.
- Cool and Store:
- Remove the jam from the heat and let it cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the jam to a clean jar or airtight container.
- Refrigerate:
- Store the jam in the refrigerator. It should keep for about 1-2 weeks.
Serving Suggestions:
- Spread the jam on whole-grain toast, muffins, or pancakes.
- Swirl it into yogurt or oatmeal for a burst of flavor.
- Use it as a topping for desserts or mix it into smoothies.
Enjoy this easy, no-sugar-added jam as a delightful addition to your breakfast!
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