Ingredients
Jam Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds fresh blueberries
- 3 tablespoons honey (or 4 tablespoons if you prefer it sweeter, or a vegan honey substitute)
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
Instructions
- Heat blueberries and honey: Place a medium saucepan over medium heat and add the fresh blueberries along with the honey. Warm them gently on the stove.
- Soften the berries: As the blueberries soften and start to release their juices, stir them regularly to combine well with the honey.
- Add chia seeds: Once the berries begin to break down, stir in the chia seeds thoroughly; they help thicken the jam while adding fiber, protein, and healthy Omega-3 fats.
- Boil slowly and mash: Bring the mixture to a slow boil, stirring almost constantly. Use a potato masher or fork to crush the blueberries further if necessary, helping to achieve a smoother texture.
- Simmer to gelatinous texture: Reduce the heat to low and continue stirring for about 10-15 minutes until the mixture thickens and achieves a jam-like consistency, then remove from heat.
- Cool the jam: Transfer the jam to a large mason jar and allow it to cool covered at room temperature for 30 minutes before refrigerating to chill completely for 2 hours or preferably overnight.
- Serve and enjoy: Use this healthy blueberry chia seed jam as a spread on toast, gluten-free crackers, scones, or as a topping over yogurt or ice cream.
Notes
- You can substitute honey with a vegan honey alternative to make this jam vegan-friendly.
- Adding an extra tablespoon of honey will increase sweetness if preferred.
- The chia seeds act as a natural thickener; do not skip them for proper texture.
- Jam can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
- Use fresh blueberries for the best flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat