Want a touch of fruity luxury that is actually good for you? Try chia jam! This luscious fruity jam is so easy and quick to make. It seems like a decadent treat but is actually healthy!

You can make this with any berry (my favourites are blackberry and raspberry). Then spoon it onto toast, porridge, rice puddings, nice cream, yoghurt, chia parfaits, cheesecake, pancakes, and waffles, as desired!

Chia parfait

Loaded oats

Raspberry ripple nice cream

Chia jam is runnier than regular jam; relying on the absorbent nature of chia seeds to thicken the jam rather than setting agents. However, it is it much healthier and in my opinion, tastier!

Some chia jam recipes recommend you heat up the berries to try to extract all the juices from the fruit; but I prefer to just mush up the berries using a fork or blender; this retaining the nutrition better.

If you want a thicker jam, just add a little more chia seeds….it is as simple as that! This jam keeps in a sealed container in the fridge for about 5-6 days and can even be frozen!

Preparation time: 5 mins

Setting time: 5-15 mins

Makes: 1 pot:

Ingredients:

• 120g berries of choice. (I love blackberries and raspberries. Frozen works well too. If using these, allow to defrost)
• 3 tbsp. chia seeds (1/2 tbsp. more for a thicker chia jam)
• 1 tbsp. lime juice or ½ tbsp. apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp. sweetener of choice: maple, coconut sugar, erthritol or ½ tsp. stevia
• 60ml water or coconut water (cooled green tea also works!)

Method:

• In a medium sized bowl, add the berries or defrosted frozen berries.
• Using the back of a fork, mash the berries up coarsely, making a compote-like purée.
• Add the chia seeds, lime juice or apple cider vinegar, sweetener of choice and water of choice. Mix.
• Pop in the fridge to allow to set. Serve as desired. Note: due to the lack of preservatives this jam should be eaten within 6 days, but can also be frozen. Enjoy!

Peanut butter chocolate and raspberry chia jam smoothie bowl