Low Sugar Homemade Strawberry Jam with Chia Seeds

Learn how to make healthy strawberry jam at home using fresh fruits. Bidding farewell to store-bought jam varieties packed with white sugar.

Sweet Lessons: Exploring the Journey from Strawberry Picking to Homemade Jam

For a while now, I've had the urge to whip up a batch of homemade fruit jam. But somehow, I kept putting it off. Living here in Melbourne, Australia, we're fortunate to have a strawberry farm nearby that my kids have been eager to visit.

As luck would have it, last week marked the end of the strawberry season. So we knew we had to seize the opportunity. Taking the kids to the farm was about more than just a fun outing – it's a valuable lesson in understanding where our food comes from. Witnessing the entire process, from plucking ripe strawberries straight from the vine to transforming them into sweet, delicious jam, was an eye-opening experience for all of us.

Now, as we enjoy our homemade jam spread generously on our breakfast toast. We're reminded of the journey those strawberries took from farm to table, creating cherished memories along the way.

Perfect Gift Idea

At the end of our visit, we found ourselves with an abundance of strawberries. It was prompting us to transform them into jams and coinciding with Mother's Day just around the corner. We made 10 jars of strawberry jam as heartfelt gifts for our loved ones.

The delightful harmony of Strawberry Chia Jam

Incorporating chia seeds into Strawberry Chia Jam offers a flavourful solution for reducing sugar content. Chia seeds, rich in fibre, play a pivotal role in this endeavour, helping to naturally lower sugar levels.

Harnessing the nutritional potency of these tiny seeds, this strawberry chia seed jam provides a boost of essential fatty acids, fostering heart health and overall well-being.

Unlike conventional jams laden with refined sugars. Our recipe relies on the inherent sweetness of coconut sugar or pure maple syrup, ensuring a guilt-free indulgence.

While a touch of brown sugar enhances the flavour profile, feel free to omit it entirely or substitute it with pure maple syrup. Opting for these low sugar alternatives allows you to relish each spoonful with the knowledge that it's a healthier choice.

The vibrant red of ripe fresh strawberries blends seamlessly with the nutty essence of chia seeds, resulting in a luscious spread ideal for topping toast, swirling into yogurt, or drizzling over pancakes.

Simple Ingredients

I appreciate that this homemade jam recipe utilises straightforward and minimal ingredients.

• Fresh strawberries: Provide the main flavor and sweetness for the jam, contributing a vibrant and fruity taste.
• Chia seeds: Act as a natural thickening agent, helping to create a gel-like consistency for the jam without the need for added pectin.
• Coconut sugar: Offers a natural sweetness with a hint of caramel flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the jam while being less refined than white sugar.
• Brown sugar: Adds a deeper, richer sweetness compared to white sugar, complementing the flavor profile of the strawberries and providing a touch of molasses flavor.
• Cinnamon: Infuses warm and aromatic notes into the jam, complementing the sweetness of the strawberries and adding depth to the flavor.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness of the jam and enhances the other flavors, helping to create a well-rounded and more complex taste profile.

Optional:

• Zest of a lemon
• Freshly squeezed lemon juice

How To Make Healthy Strawberry Jam

Marinating the strawberries in sugar in a large saucepan for about 30 minutes is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, this step allows the strawberries to macerate, which means the sugar draws out the natural juices from the strawberries.

Ensure room temperature strawberries simplify preparation and enhance flavour. Soak them in sugar to draw out natural juices, eliminating the need for water and resulting in a rich, concentrated jam bursting with strawberry goodness.

Position the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to low heat.

Utilise a potato masher to crush any sizable strawberry chunks. Then, incorporate the chia seeds and allow the mixture to rest before transferring it into jars.

Remove the hot jam from the heat and allow it to cool.

Crafting the Perfect Healthy Strawberry Jam Recipe

In crafting our fresh strawberry jam, we've concocted a recipe that stands out among traditional jam recipes.

By adding chia seeds to this simple recipe, we've transformed the regular jam experience into a healthy jam. Perfect for those seeking a delicious yet nutritious spread. Once prepared, simply store your jam in an airtight container or mason jar to maintain its freshness and preserve its flavours.

This easy strawberry jam recipe requires just the right amount of sugar to achieve the perfect balance of sweetness without compromising on health.

With juicy strawberries as the star ingredient, this simple recipe guarantees the best results every time. Whether you're spreading it on English muffins or layering it between slices of bread for classic jelly sandwiches. Plus, the gel-like consistency ensures it's easy to spread and enjoy.

Packed with the goodness of fresh fruit, our small-batch strawberry jam recipe is a delightful addition to any pantry. Offering a sugar-free strawberry jam option that supports a strong immune system. So whip up your own jar of jam today and savor the taste of homemade goodness in every spoonful.