Super Simple Chia Jam

One of my favourite little nutrition-boosting secret ingredients is chia seeds. Yep, the tiny little seeds that get stuck in your teeth!

Mixed berry chia jam on top of pancakes, with sliced fruit and greek yogurt + maple syrup on the side.

Most people have tried them at this point; they’ve been around for years and you’ll spot them in everything from chia pudding to vegan egg replacement recipes online. They’ve earned their place in your cupboard for their versatility!

However, if you haven’t tried them just yet, this recipe is the perfect introduction. Simple, easy enough for all skill levels, and similar to foods you’re used to already - what more could you ask for?

Super Simple Chia Jam

Time: Approximately 10-20 minutes, plus cooling time.

Servings: Approximately 3 cups of jam (48 tbsp).

Ingredients:

• 3 cups fresh or frozen berries

• 3-4 tbsp chia seeds

• 1 tbsp vanilla

• 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)

• 1-2 tbsp maple syrup or other sweetener of choice (optional)

Directions

• Add berries to a medium pot; heat on medium while stirring occasionally until berries begin to break down, about 3-6 minutes.

• Mash with fork or potato masher if desired. Cook until soft through and bubbling.

• Remove from heat; stir in chia seeds, vanilla, lemon juice and sugar/sweetener. Let sit until cool, stirring occasionally. Jam will thicken as it cools.

• Pour into container or jar with airtight lid; keep in fridge for 1 week.

Dietitian Notes:

• You can use any berries: strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries. Combine them or even experiment with adding in other fruits like peaches or mango.

• Chop fruit into smaller pieces to speed up cooking time.

• Removing peels is optional but recommended for apple or pear skins if not grating or blending later.

• For a smoother texture, add cooled jam to your blender or food processor and pulse until desired texture. Alternatively, use a stick blender.

• Use to top toast, yogurt, oatmeal, or as filling inside crisps or jam bars.

• If it’s too thick once cooled, add 1 tbsp water, stir and let sit. Repeat if necessary.

• If it’s too thin once cooled, add 1/2 -1 tbsp additional chia seeds, stir and let sit. Repeat if necessary.

This is a favourite in our house - I love mine with mixed berries, cherries and mango and loaded with chia seeds! I often use the frozen options but it’s a great way to use up overripe fruit hiding in the fridge too.

You’ll find the printable PDF in our meal inspiration e-book or save this page to refer back to later! Once you’ve made it, let us know your favourite version below & then tag us on social media so we can see your delicious creation!

Happy eating!

Ann Marion & Danielle