As fresh berries come into season, it’s the perfect time of year to make jam! Not everyone has time to go about the traditional canning process, so thank goodness for this simple, quick, and healthy jam recipe! The secret to this jam is chia seeds, which absorb the juice from the berries, thickening the jam and giving it a perfect consistency. Bonus - they’re full of fiber, protein, and Omega-3 fatty acids! Not only is this jam nutritious and guilt free… it’s delicious on toast, scones, ice cream, a charcuterie board, and anywhere else you might use regular jam or jelly!

Ingredients:

· 3 cups fresh (or frozen) berries

· 1/2 Tbsp lemon juice

· 2-3 Tbsp honey, maple syrup, or other sweetener

· 2-3 Tbsp chia seeds

· 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

Directions:

1. In a medium saucepan, bring berries, sweetener and lemon juice to a simmer over medium low heat. Add a little extra lemon if you like your jam slightly tart.

2. Gently mash the berries, and let simmer about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Remove from heat. Stir in the chia seeds (and vanilla if using) and let it sit for 10-15 minutes, until thickened.

If it doesn’t thicken as much as you’d like, add some extra chia seeds.

4. Let the jam cool. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, or freeze to use later.

*This recipe took inspiration from the website frommybowl.com