It's Time to JAM!!

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Jam, jam, jam. While some of you may think that making jam is for Grandma, I am here to show you how easy, healthy, and delish it is to make your own homemade healthy jam.  You may never buy that store stuff again....

What is the going rate from some real fruit jam these days?  $3 or $4 or more, depending on location. I know I have paid obscene amounts in the past, but those days are past.  Berries are in season which means they are at their lowest prices!!!  I am in love!

The base of these jams are berries and chia seeds.  The chia seeds absorb the liquid and will give you the "jam like" texture.

Without further adieu, Suzy Homemaker here to show you how to make 3 different natural, healthy and tasty fruit jams. 

**These are fresh jams.  They will only be good for 1 to 1.5 weeks in the fridge**  
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Don't make more than you can finish or share with friends!  BUT - you can freeze your fresh, low cost berries and make this any time you wish!!!

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FRESH HOMEMADE STRAWBERRY CHIA SEED JAM

INGREDIENTS

• 16 oz. fresh strawberries, stems removed

(if using frozen berries, allow them to defrost first)

• juice of 1/2 of a lemon
• 3 T chia seeds
• 2-3 T 100% pure maple syrup

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a food processor, pulse strawberries to puree. I like chunks of strawberries in my jam so I don't process them until completely smooth. Process to the desired smoothness.
2. Pour into a small mixing bowl and stir in lemon juice, maple syrup and chia seeds.
3. Transfer to a glass container with an airtight lid, such as a mason jar.
4. Cover and refrigerate for about 3-4 hours or until thickened to the desired consistency.

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HOMEMADE BLUEBERRY CHIA JAM

INGREDIENTS

• 3 cups fresh blueberry

(if using frozen berries, allow them to defrost first)

• 3-4 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Combine blueberries and 3 tablespoons maple syrup in a medium non-stick saucepan over medium heat and bring to a low boil. Reduce heat slightly and simmer about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, or until all berries have turned dark and shiny, like little marbles. Mash with a potato masher, leaving some berries whole for texture.
2. Stir in chia seeds and reduce heat to low. Let simmer about 15 minutes, stirring frequently, or until thickened--it will continue to thicken in the fridge.
3. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Keep in an airtight container in the fridge.

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HOMEMADE RASPBERRY & VANILLA CHIA SEED JAM
 
INGREDIENTS

• 1.5 cups raspberries 

(if using frozen raspberries, allow them to defrost first)

• 1 tbsp honey
• ½ tsp vanilla
• 1.5 tbsp chia seeds

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Put the raspberries into a saucepan over a medium heat on the hob. Mash the raspberries as they begin to heat up. If they are not very juicy you can add a little water to help them break down.
2. When the raspberries have broken down to a saucy consistency add the honey and vanilla and stir until combined. Remove from the heat and allow the mixture to cool a little before add the chia seeds.
3. Transfer the jam to a jar and allow it to cool completely. Once the jam has reached room temperature transfer it to the fridge for an hour to set.
4. Store in an air tight jar in the fridge.

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Simple right?  If your feeling extra creative, try making a mixed berry!

You can enjoy these jams on muffins, bagels, toast, yogurt, in oatmeal, on ice cream or homemade banana based "ice cream", in a smoothie, pancakes, french toast, and more.  Just because it is called "Jam" doesn't mean its uses are limited. Remember, you made this out of fresh fruit and a chia seeds.  

Which one will you be making?
Bodynista