National Strawberry Day, observed on February 27, is the perfect occasion to embrace strawberries’ sweet, aromatic flavors.
In honor of this day, I’m thrilled to share my delightful and healthy recipe that lets you uniquely enjoy the essence of strawberries: Strawberry Chia Jam. This recipe captures the vibrant taste of fresh strawberries and offers a healthier alternative to traditional jams, which often contain high amounts of refined sugar.
Why Strawberry Chia Jam?
Strawberry Chia Jam is an excellent choice for several reasons:
Health benefits: By using chia seeds as a thickening agent, this jam provides a boost of fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious addition to your diet.
Ease of preparation: This jam is incredibly easy to make, requiring just 10 minutes and four simple ingredients. It’s a perfect recipe for beginners or anyone looking for a quick, homemade spread.
Versatility: Although this recipe highlights strawberries, it’s adaptable to any juicy fruit you have on hand. Feel free to experiment with raspberries, blackberries, or even a mix to create your custom blend.
Ingredients:
2 cups of strawberries
2 tbsp chia seeds
1 tbsp lemon juice
Honey (to taste)
Method:
Prep the strawberries: Begin by washing and chopping the strawberries to prepare them for cooking.
Cook: Transfer the chopped strawberries to a saucepan and place it over medium heat.
Mash: As the strawberries warm, they will start to break down and release their juices. After approximately 5 minutes, use a potato masher to achieve your desired consistency.
Thicken: Stir in the chia seeds, which will start to thicken the mixture as it cools.
Flavor: Add lemon juice and honey according to your taste preferences, adjusting for the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness.
Cool: Once mixed, remove the saucepan from the heat. The jam will continue to thicken as it cools.
Here’s my Instagram Reel with a step-by-step method that’s easy to follow along!
Storage:
Refrigeration is key: Transfer the jam to a sealed container and refrigerate. Since this jam is made without refined sugar, consuming it within a week is essential to ensure freshness.
Final Thoughts:
This Strawberry Chia Jam is a testament to the simplicity and joy of making your spreads at home. It’s a healthy, quick, and delicious way to celebrate the sweetness of strawberries on National Strawberry Day or any day you crave a fruity treat.
Try making this jam and experience the satisfaction of spreading a dollop of your homemade concoction on toast, yogurt, or oatmeal. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to share your thoughts and variations!
Happy National Strawberry Day!
Let’s make it sweeter with a jar of homemade Strawberry Chia Jam.