Store-bought jams may be convenient, but they often come with added sugars, preservatives, and other ingredients that are difficult to keep track of. Making jam at home gives you complete control over what goes into it, allowing you to create a fresher, more wholesome alternative using simple, real-food ingredients.
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Berries are particularly well-suited for homemade jams because of their natural sweetness and rich nutrient profile, and when paired with chia seeds, they can become a fibre-packed spread that works just as well on breakfast dishes as it does in snacks and desserts.
Dr Joseph Salhab, a gastroenterologist and health content creator from Florida, specialising in digestion, liver, pancreas and nutrition, has shared a simple recipe for homemade strawberry chia seed jam.
In an Instagram video posted on June 1, he walks viewers through the step-by-step preparation and highlights the many ways this naturally sweet, fibre-rich spread can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet. For those looking for an easy, healthier alternative to packaged jams, this homemade version offers a simple solution.
Check out the recipe below:
Ingredients
- 2 cups frozen strawberries
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- Juice from 1 lemon
- 1 to 2 teaspoons maple syrup, or to taste
- Optional: splash of water if the berries need help softening
Method
- Add the frozen strawberries to a small saucepan and place it over low to medium heat.
- Cook the strawberries, stirring occasionally, until they soften completely and begin to release their natural juices.
- Once softened, use a fork or potato masher to gently mash the berries to your preferred consistency.
- Continue cooking for another few minutes, allowing the mixture to simmer and develop a thick, saucy texture.
- Remove the pan from the heat and immediately stir in the chia seeds, which will help naturally thicken the jam.
- Add the juice of one freshly squeezed lemon to brighten the flavour and balance the sweetness.
- If you prefer a sweeter jam, stir in a small drizzle of maple syrup and mix well until everything is fully combined.
- Transfer the mixture to a clean glass jar or airtight container and allow it to cool slightly.
- Refrigerate for around two hours, or until the chia seeds have absorbed the liquid and the jam has thickened.
- Enjoy the homemade strawberry chia seed jam spread on toast, swirled into yoghurt, spooned over oatmeal, or paired with your favourite breakfast and snack options.
Why this works
- Easy to incorporate into breakfast recipes.
- Works as a healthy and tasty snack.
- Works well in strawberry and chia seed recipes.
- A natural, homemade, no-canning jam without preservatives and additives.
- Great as a topping for Greek yoghurt.
- Can be used to top oatmeal.
- Can be incorporated as a healthy addition to desserts.
- Simple recipe using real, whole-food ingredients.
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