Are you ready to whip up a delicious treat? This Strawberry Vanilla Chia Seed Jam recipe is not just easy; it’s mouthwatering! With simple ingredients like fresh strawberries and pure vanilla extract, you can make a sweet spread that’s perfect for toast, yogurt, or desserts. Trust me, once you try making this jam, you’ll never go back. Let’s dive into this quick guide and get started!
Ingredients
Fresh Strawberries
You need 2 cups of fresh strawberries for this jam. Make sure they are ripe and sweet. Hull them and chop them into small pieces. Fresh strawberries give the best flavor and color to your jam.
Pure Maple Syrup
Use 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup. This sweetener adds a rich taste. You can adjust this amount based on how sweet you want your jam. If you like it sweeter, feel free to add more.
Chia Seeds
You will need 2 tablespoons of chia seeds. These tiny seeds help thicken the jam. They absorb liquid and create a nice texture. Plus, they add a boost of fiber and nutrients.
Pure Vanilla Extract
Add 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. This ingredient gives the jam a warm, sweet flavor. It blends well with the strawberries and enhances the taste.
Sea Salt
Just a pinch of sea salt is needed. This tiny amount helps balance the sweetness. It brings out the natural flavors of the strawberries and maple syrup.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Strawberries
Start by washing your strawberries. Remove the green tops and chop them into small pieces. This will help them cook faster and release their juices.
Cooking the Mixture
In a medium saucepan, add the chopped strawberries. Pour in 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup and a pinch of sea salt. Turn the heat to medium and stir gently. Cook for about 5-7 minutes. You will see the strawberries soften and break apart.
Mashing the Strawberries
Once the strawberries are soft, grab a fork or potato masher. Mash the strawberries to your liking. If you prefer a smooth jam, mash them well. If you like some chunks, mash a little less.
Adding Chia Seeds and Vanilla
Now it’s time to mix in the chia seeds. Add 2 tablespoons of chia seeds along with 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Stir well to make sure the chia seeds are spread evenly in the mixture.
Resting Time for Thickening
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Let the mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes. During this time, the chia seeds will soak up the liquid. This will help your jam thicken nicely.
Adjusting Sweetness
After resting, taste your jam. If you want it sweeter, add more maple syrup. Stir well to combine any extra sweetness.
Storing the Jam
Carefully pour the jam into a clean jar or airtight container. Let it cool completely before sealing the jar. For best results, refrigerate the jam for at least one hour. This chilling time helps it thicken more and enhances the flavor.
Tips & Tricks
Choosing the Best Strawberries
When picking strawberries, look for bright red ones with a strong scent. They should feel firm but not too hard. Avoid berries with white or green spots. These spots mean they are not ripe. Fresh strawberries give the best flavor for your jam. If you can, buy local or organic strawberries. They taste better and are often fresher.
Adjusting Sweetness to Preference
The recipe calls for maple syrup for sweetness. You can add more or less syrup to fit your taste. Try starting with 1/4 cup, then taste the mixture. If you want it sweeter, add a little more syrup. Remember, the sweetness can change as the jam cools. Always taste before you finish!
Achieving the Perfect Consistency
To get the right jam thickness, let it rest. Chia seeds absorb liquid and help thicken the jam. After cooking, let it sit for 10-15 minutes. If you want it thicker, you can add more chia seeds. If it’s too thick, stir in a bit of water or extra strawberries. Keep adjusting until it’s just right for you!
Variations
Adding Other Fruits
You can mix in other fruits to make this jam unique. Blueberries, raspberries, or peaches work well. Just keep the same amount of fruit. If you want a berry blend, try equal parts strawberries and blueberries. This adds different flavors and colors to your jam.
Infusing with Spices (e.g., cinnamon)
Adding spices can change the flavor profile of your jam. A sprinkle of cinnamon brings warmth. You can also try ginger or nutmeg for a zesty kick. Just add a small amount while cooking the strawberries. Taste it as you go to find the perfect balance.
Sugar-Free Alternatives
If you want a sugar-free jam, you can use stevia or monk fruit sweetener. These options can replace maple syrup. You may need to adjust the amount based on the sweetness you prefer. Using ripe fruit can also help keep the jam sweet without added sugars.
Storage Info
Best Ways to Store Strawberry Vanilla Chia Seed Jam
To keep your jam fresh, store it in a clean jar. Glass jars work best. Make sure to seal it tightly. This helps keep out air and moisture. You can also use an airtight container. If your jam is warm, allow it to cool before sealing. This prevents condensation inside the jar.
Shelf Life at Room Temperature
If you leave your jam out at room temperature, it lasts for one day. After that, you should refrigerate it. Keeping it out can cause spoilage. Always check for any signs of mold or off smells before using. If you see or smell anything unusual, it is best to throw it away.
Refrigeration Tips
In the fridge, your jam can last up to two weeks. Store it in the back of the fridge for the best results. The back is usually cooler than the front. When you open the jar, use clean utensils each time. This prevents bacteria from getting in. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Just pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries! Just thaw them first. The flavor will still be great. The jam may be a bit thinner, so be ready to adjust the chia seeds.
How long does the jam last in the fridge?
The jam lasts about one week in the fridge. Store it in a clean jar. Make sure it’s sealed well to keep it fresh.
What can I use chia seed jam for?
Chia seed jam is super versatile! You can spread it on toast or pancakes. It’s also great on yogurt or oatmeal. Try it in smoothies or as a topping for desserts!
Is this jam gluten-free and vegan?
Yes, this jam is both gluten-free and vegan! It uses only plant-based ingredients. You can enjoy it without any worries about dietary restrictions.
How do I adjust the recipe for larger batches?
To make a larger batch, simply multiply the ingredients. Keep the same ratio for strawberries and chia seeds. Adjust the cooking time slightly if needed. Just make sure to use a bigger pot!
You can create delicious strawberry vanilla chia seed jam using fresh ingredients like berries and maple syrup. We covered steps to prep, cook, and store your jam. I shared tips on choosing berries and achieving the right consistency. You even learned tasty variations. This jam is easy, fun, and fits many diets. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and sharing your results. This jam can brighten any meal or snack. Enjoy the process and the sweet reward!
