3 Ingredient Blueberry Chia Jam
This the Jam, right here!
Sweet summertime is rolling in! Easy living, pool days, picnics, farmer’s markets and berry season! Buying those juicy little berries while they are in season has all the perks! In season means they are at their absolute freshest, sweetest and most flavorful state, but also their most nutritious!! Plus, since they are abundant and overflowing at farms everywhere, you will also find them at their cheapest prices of the year! Get out there and stock up on those beauties.
This Blueberry Chia Jam is a real showstopper! Only 3 ingredients, no added sugar, antioxidant-dense, and a great source of Omega-3 fatty acids.
Jams and jellies tend to be loaded with added sugar, food colorings, and gelatins. When using the freshest of berries there is no need for sugar or artificial flavors or colors. Easily ditch that gelatin by swapping in magical chia seeds. Chia seeds themselves are flavorless, however, they take on the flavor of any liquid or food they are mixed with. When chia seeds are mixed with liquid they plump up to several times their size and form a gelatinous coating that is easy to swallow and easy to digest. This form of soluble fiber also slows down digestion, which keeps you fuller longer and helps balance blood sugar. Not your average jam!
Load this jam on all your usual favorites and maybe somewhere new. Toast, waffles, oatmeal, smoothie bowls, sandwiches, burgers, ice cream or even smores!
3 Ingredient Blueberry Chia Jam
(Makes approx. 1 cup of jam)
Ingredients:
1-pint fresh blueberries*
1/2 TBSP fresh squeezed lemon juice
1 TBSP chia seeds
1 TBSP maple syrup or honey, optional
Directions:
Wash blueberries and add to a small saucepan. Simmer over medium-low heat for 5-10 minutes, smashing blueberries with the back of a spoon or spatula as they soften. *Watch your clothing! The blueberries can squirt and stain if you are not careful.
Continue simmering and smashing until you reach your desired consistency. I like it almost completely smooth, which takes around 10 minutes. Then remove from heat and stir in lemon juice and chia seeds.
Taste mixture. If your berries were not in season and you need extra sweetness, add up to 1 TBSP maple syrup or honey to reach desired flavor.
Allow mixture to cool, about 10 minutes, transfer to a container and chill completely in refrigerator. Best if used within 7-10 days.
Notes:
Frozen blueberries can be substituted for fresh. Thaw blueberries in refrigerator before simmering.
Try swapping blueberries with strawberries or blackberries!