Delicious Strawberry Chia Jam

Name: Delicious Strawberry Chia Jam
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 1 cup
Ingredients: 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped; 2 tablespoons chia seeds; 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional); 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Celebration Table Recipes

I absolutely love making my own jams, and this Delicious Strawberry Chia Jam has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen. The sweet, succulent strawberries combined with the slight crunch of chia seeds create a delightful texture that’s both unique and satisfying. Plus, it’s so simple to whip up in just 20 minutes! With no added sugar and packed with nutrients, it’s the perfect spread for my morning toast or added to smoothies. This jam is not only delicious, but it also has a satisfying depth of flavor that keeps me coming back for more.

Created by

Mario

Last updated on 2026-01-13T11:30:33.680Z

When I first experimented with making strawberry jam at home, I was amazed at how easy and quick it was to create. Using chia seeds instead of traditional pectin not only helps to thicken the jam but also boosts its nutritional profile. I love that it can be made with fresh or frozen strawberries, making it a year-round treat!

One of my favorite tips is to slightly mash the strawberries with a fork before cooking. This way, you get that perfect consistency while still having little bites of fruit in your jam. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the natural sweetness of strawberries without overpowering it with sugar.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich strawberry flavor with a hint of crunch from chia seeds
No added sugars or preservatives, just wholesome ingredients
Quick and easy, ready in just 20 minutes

      

The Role of Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are the magic ingredient in this strawberry jam, providing both texture and nutritional benefits. When mixed with liquid, they swell and form a gel-like consistency that mimics traditional pectin-based jams. This not only thickens the jam but also adds a lovely crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, sweet strawberries. If you're looking to boost the nutritional profile further, consider adding flaxseeds or hemp seeds for additional omega-3 fatty acids and protein.

One of the best parts about using chia seeds is that they bind with the natural sugars in the strawberries, creating a harmonious blend without the need for added sugars. Their inherent ability to thicken means you can experiment with different fruits to create unique jams while maintaining the same basic recipe. This flexibility allows for personal touches such as adding spices like cinnamon or ginger for extra warmth.

Perfecting Your Strawberry Jam

For the best flavor, choose ripe, fragrant strawberries. The sweetness of the jam largely depends on the quality and ripeness of the strawberries, so take the time to select the best ones at the market. If strawberries are not in season, frozen berries can work as a substitute; just remember to thaw and drain them well before use to avoid excess moisture in your jam.

During the cooking process, make sure to stir frequently to ensure even cooking and prevent the jam from sticking to the bottom of the pan. You want to cook the strawberries until they become glossy and soft, which should take about 5-7 minutes. This not only enhances their flavor but also ensures a smooth consistency once the chia seeds are added.

Ingredients

These ingredients come together to create a fresh and naturally sweet jam:

Ingredients for Strawberry Chia Jam

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
2 tablespoons chia seeds
2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup (optional)
1 teaspoon lemon juice

Mixing these four simple ingredients can yield a delightful jam you'll enjoy for weeks!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your own strawberry chia jam:

Prepare the Strawberries

In a medium saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries and lemon juice. If you prefer a sweeter jam, add honey or maple syrup at this stage. Heat over medium heat until the strawberries have softened and released their juices, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Chia Seeds

Stir in the chia seeds and let the mixture simmer for another 3-5 minutes until it thickens. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.

Cool and Store

Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the jam cool completely. Transfer it to a clean jar and store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

Enjoy this delicious, healthy jam on your favorite breads, in yogurt, or even spooned over desserts!

Pro Tips

For a twist, try adding a pinch of vanilla extract or some fresh mint to the jam during cooking for an extra flavor dimension.

Storing and Using Your Jam

This strawberry chia jam can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, you may also consider freezing it in small portions. Use freezer-safe containers or silicone molds to make it easy to thaw just the right amount. When ready to use, simply move a portion to the fridge to thaw overnight.

Beyond spreading on toast, this jam can elevate many dishes. Consider adding it to yogurt or oatmeal for a delicious breakfast, or using it as a topping for pancakes and waffles. You can even swirl it into smoothie bowls or use it as a filling for desserts like tarts and pastries.

Customizing Your Jam

Feel free to get creative with flavors by incorporating herbs or citrus zest. Fresh mint or basil can add an unexpected twist that complements the strawberries beautifully. Additionally, a bit of orange or lemon zest can enhance the tartness and freshness of the jam, bringing out the strawberries' natural flavors even more.

If you like a smoother jam, consider blending the cooked strawberry mixture before adding chia seeds. This technique will yield a silkier texture, making it ideal for desserts or as a topping for cheesecakes. Adjust the thickness by varying the amount of chia seeds; for a thicker jam, increase the seeds slightly, keeping in mind that the mixture will continue to thicken as it cools.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, frozen strawberries work well! Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before cooking.

→ How long can I store this jam?

The jam can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

→ Can I use a different sweetener?

Absolutely! You can use any sweetener of choice, such as agave syrup or stevia.

→ Is this jam gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses only fruit and chia seeds.