There’s something magical about transforming fresh, sun-ripened strawberries into a luscious jam without a speck of sugar—it’s like bottling summer’s essence. This Strawberry Chia Seed Jam is a delightful paradox: both indulgent and health-conscious, a sweet symphony without the sugar crash. And honestly, isn’t it wonderful to spread a bit of that magic on your morning toast or swirl it into yogurt?
Steps
- Rinse the strawberries thoroughly and remove the stems. Chop them into small pieces for easier cooking.
- Place the chopped strawberries in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the strawberries start to release their juices and soften.
- Add a sweetener of your choice to the saucepan. Stir it in well, adjusting to taste, and let the mixture simmer for a few more minutes.
- Sprinkle in some chia seeds and mix thoroughly. Allow the mixture to thicken as it continues to cook for a couple more minutes.
- Once thickened to your desired consistency, remove the jam from heat. Let it cool before transferring it to a jar or container for storage.
- Store the jam in the refrigerator and enjoy it as a spread on your favorite foods.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 1/2 cup of powdered sweetener (erythritol or monk fruit blend recommended)
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon of gelatin powder
FAQ
- What are the benefits of making sugar-free strawberry jam?
- Creating sugar-free strawberry jam allows you to enjoy a sweet spread without the added sugars. It’s a healthier choice that can help you maintain a balanced diet, especially if you’re watching your sugar intake.
- Can I use frozen strawberries for this jam recipe?
- Yes, you can use frozen strawberries if fresh ones are not available. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using them in the jam.
- How do I store sugar-free strawberry jam?
- Store the sugar-free strawberry jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in a suitable container.
- Is it possible to can this sugar-free jam for long-term storage?
- Yes, you can preserve this sugar-free jam by using a water bath canning method. Be sure to follow proper canning guidelines to ensure safety and quality.
- Can I use this recipe with other fruits besides strawberries?
- Absolutely, this recipe can be adapted for other fruits. Feel free to experiment with your favorite fruits to create a variety of sugar-free jams.
Tips
- Opt for ripe strawberries to ensure maximum sweetness and flavor, which is especially important since the recipe is sugar-free.
- Use a potato masher or fork to crush the strawberries to your desired consistency, allowing you to control the texture of your jam.
- Consider adding a pinch of salt or lemon juice to enhance the natural flavors of the strawberries.
- Sterilize your jars and lids before use to ensure the jam is preserved safely and stays fresh for a longer period.
Equipment
- Jam or Canning Jars – Essential for storing homemade jam.
- Canning Funnel – Helps in easily transferring jam into jars without spills.
- Jar Lifter – Useful for safely handling hot jars during the canning process.
- Ladle – For scooping and pouring the jam into jars.
- Potato Masher or Immersion Blender – For mashing or blending strawberries.
- making and might not be found in every home kitchen.
