Sugar-free cherry chia jam
When I was little, my grandmother often made jam, mainly from red currants (a family’s favourite), but peaches, strawberries and oranges also frequently made their way into mouth-watering jellies.
To me, homemade jam belonged exclusively to a grandmother’s skillset and I never imagined making my own jam before I would have grandchildren myself.
For my family, store-bought jams were never an option either because a) when you grow up with the real thing no commercial jam ever comes close, and b) they often contain more refined sugar and additives than actual fruit.
So no jam for me and my kids … Until I came across the concept of chia jam!
This super easy way of making quick and healthy jam is a must try for every health-conscious family with a tight schedule, because:
- It’s incredibly easy and quick to make
- It’s super healthy
- It’s refined sugar-free
WHAT ARE THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF CHIA JAM?
Well first, it’s made with real fruit (fresh or frozen) which is high in antioxidants and vitamins. Secondly, each jar contains 2 tablespoons of chia seeds which are true powerhouses when it comes to protein and fiber. In addition, they’re full of calcium, manganese, magnesium, phosphorus (all essential for good bone health), iron, and anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids. They also help clean out the intestines and are especially great for people suffering from constipation.
When mixed with a liquid they expand to 10 times their size and become gelatinous, which makes them the perfect ingredient for this easy healthy jam.
Ingredients
Makes one medium jar
*Unless stated differently, my recipes are measured with US measuring cups like these ones.
Directions - 2 methods
If you like some texture: place the cherries in a saucepan over medium heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until it bubbles and breaks down. Use a potato masher to mash the fruit. Remove from the heat and add the chia seeds. Add honey or maple syrup if desired. Stir until well combined and let it rest for at least 15 minutes to allow the mixture to gelatinize.
For a smoother texture: place the cherries in a saucepan over medium heat and simmer for about 10 minutes until it bubbles and breaks down. Remove from the heat and place cherries in your food processor or blender and puree to your desired consistency. Add the chia seeds. Stir until well combined and let it rest for at least 15 minutes to allow the mixture to gelatinize.
A FEW NOTESYou can make this easy refined sugar-free jam with any fruit, but in my experience, the following fruits work best: strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, cherries, and peaches.
Allow to cool completely before storing in your fridge for about 2 weeks, or in your freezer for up to 6 months (except if using frozen fruit).
The jam will thicken further and become more set once completely chilled. If you find your jam too liquid once cooled, feel free to add a bit more chia seeds.
Ingredients
Directions
You can make this easy refined sugar-free jam with any fruit, but in my experience, the following fruits work best: strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, cherries, and peaches.
Allow to cool completely before storing in your fridge for about 2 weeks, or in your freezer for up to 6 months (except if using frozen fruit).
The jam will thicken further and become more set once completely chilled. If you find your jam too liquid once cooled, feel free to add a bit more chia seeds.
