who says jam has to be loaded with sugar? This recipe whips up a delicious, sugar-free jam in minutes, perfect for topping toast, yogurt, or even enjoying by the spoonful!
The Secret Weapon: Chia Seeds!
Forget the pectin and the long cooking times. This recipe uses chia seeds, a nutritional powerhouse, to thicken the jam naturally. Packed with fiber and healthy fats, chia seeds transform this jam into a guilt-free treat.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen berries (strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, or a mix!)
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- Optional: Drizzle of honey or pure maple syrup for extra sweetness (use sparingly!)
Instructions:
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Prep Your Berries:
- Fresh berries? Rinse them gently and chop them into bite-sized pieces, if desired.
- Frozen berries work too! No need to thaw them beforehand.
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Cook Up a Fruity Delight:
- Place your berries in a saucepan over medium heat. As the berries warm, they’ll release their juices. Feel free to mash them a bit with a fork or potato masher to help things along.
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Lemon Zest:
- Stir in the fresh lemon juice. This brightens up the natural flavors of the fruit and adds a touch of tang.
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Chia Seed Magic:
- Once the fruit has softened and become saucy, sprinkle in the chia seeds and give it a good stir. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for a few minutes. Watch as the chia seeds absorb the liquid and thicken the jam to your desired consistency.
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Cool and Conquer:
- Take the jam off the heat and let it cool down. Remember, it will continue to thicken as it cools!
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Store and Savor:
- Transfer your delicious sugar-free jam to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Enjoy it on toast, yogurt, oatmeal, or even straight from the spoon!
Tips and Tricks:
- Want a specific flavor profile? Experiment with different berry combinations!
- For a touch of extra sweetness, drizzle in a tiny bit of honey or pure maple syrup at the end (remember, a little goes a long way!).
- This jam is best enjoyed within a week, but it can keep in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
So ditch the sugary store-bought jams and whip up this quick, healthy, and oh-so-delicious sugar-free version at home! Your taste buds (and your waistline) will thank you.
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