Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This blueberry chia jam is not only quick and easy to make, but it’s also free of refined sugars and preservatives, making it a healthier option than traditional jams. The chia seeds create a naturally gelled texture without the need for pectin or artificial ingredients. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the sweet, tangy flavor of blueberries all year round. You can use it in so many ways—spread on toast, dolloped on oatmeal, mixed into smoothies, or simply enjoyed by the spoonful!

Ingredients

2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
2 tablespoons chia seeds
1-2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey (or sweetener of choice, to taste)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional, for a zesty kick)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the blueberries:
In a small saucepan, add the blueberries and cook over medium heat. Stir occasionally and let the berries release their juices and start to break down, about 5-7 minutes.
Mash the blueberries:
Once the blueberries have softened, use a spoon or potato masher to mash them to your desired consistency. If you prefer a smoother jam, you can also use an immersion blender or a regular blender (just let the jam cool a bit first).
Add sweetener and flavor:
Stir in the maple syrup or honey, lemon juice, and vanilla extract (if using). Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness as needed.
Add chia seeds:
Stir in the chia seeds and continue to cook the mixture on low heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly. The chia seeds will absorb the liquid and thicken the jam.
Cool and thicken:
Remove the jam from heat and let it cool for 10-15 minutes. The jam will thicken as it cools. If you’d like it thicker, you can add more chia seeds (1 tablespoon at a time) and let it sit for a bit longer.
Store the jam:
Transfer the jam to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1-2 weeks. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Serve:
Enjoy your blueberry chia jam on toast, in yogurt, mixed into smoothies, or as a topping for pancakes!

Servings and Timing

Servings: About 1 cup of jam (enough for several servings)
Total time: 15-20 minutes

Variations

Other Berry Chia Jam: Swap the blueberries with other berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries for a different flavor profile. You can even mix different berries for a berry medley jam!
Spiced Blueberry Chia Jam: Add a pinch of cinnamon or ground ginger for a spiced twist on your jam.
No-Sweetener Chia Jam: Skip the sweetener for a more naturally tart jam, or use a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit to reduce sugar.
Herb-Infused Jam: Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme during the cooking process to infuse the jam with a unique flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store the jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 weeks. The chia seeds help preserve the jam, but it’s best consumed within a week or two.
Freezing: You can freeze the jam for up to 3 months. Store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe jar, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
Reheating: To reheat the jam, simply warm it in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen blueberries?

Yes, frozen blueberries work just as well as fresh. Simply thaw them slightly before starting the recipe.

2. Can I make this jam without chia seeds?

Chia seeds are what help thicken this jam naturally. If you don’t have chia seeds, you could use pectin, agar-agar, or a cornstarch slurry, but the texture and consistency will differ.

3. Can I make this jam without sweetener?

Yes! The blueberries have enough natural sweetness for some people, but if you prefer a sweeter jam, you can add a little honey, maple syrup, or your preferred sweetener.

4. Can I make this jam with other fruits?

Absolutely! This recipe works with many fruits. You can use strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, or even a mix of fruits for a unique jam.

5. Can I adjust the thickness of the jam?

Yes, if you prefer a thicker jam, you can add more chia seeds, let it cook for a longer time, or even refrigerate it for an additional thickness boost.

6. How long will the jam last in the fridge?

The jam will stay fresh in the fridge for about 1-2 weeks. The chia seeds help preserve it, but it’s best to use it within a week or so.

7. Can I use this jam in baking?

Yes, you can use this chia jam as a filling for pastries, cookies, or cakes. It also makes a great topping for yogurt or oatmeal.

8. Can I use a blender to mash the berries?

Yes, you can use an immersion blender or a regular blender to create a smoother consistency. Just be careful not to over-blend if you want some chunks of fruit in your jam.

9. Can I use another thickening agent besides chia seeds?

If you prefer, you can use agar-agar or pectin as a thickening agent, though chia seeds offer the added benefit of healthy fats, fiber, and omega-3s.

10. How do I make this jam lower in sugar?

You can reduce or eliminate the sweetener entirely, or use a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit for a lower-sugar version of the jam.

Conclusion

This Ingredient Blueberry Chia Jam is a healthy, easy-to-make alternative to traditional jams, and it’s a great way to enjoy the sweet, tangy flavor of blueberries while benefiting from the nutritional power of chia seeds. It’s perfect for spreading on toast, adding to yogurt, or incorporating into other recipes. With minimal ingredients and prep time, this jam is a delicious, homemade addition to your pantry that’s as versatile as it is nutritious!