Easy chia berry jam

This chia berry jam is one of those recipes that’s barely a recipe at all because it’s so easy! It comes together in minutes, is naturally sweetened by the fruit itself, and works beautifully spooned onto yoghurt, porridge, toast or overnight oats. The chia seeds help create that jam-like texture while also adding fibre and healthy fats, making it a little more balanced and satisfying than many shop-bought jams.

The key here is letting the berries do most of the work when it comes to flavour. Darker berries, such as blueberries, blackberries, and cherries, are especially lovely and naturally rich in polyphenols.

• Makes: 1 small jar

• Time: 5–10 minutes

Ingredients

• 125g berries — blueberries, raspberries and blackberries work well (fresh or frozen, ideally organic where possible)

• Small handful frozen wild blueberries (optional)

• Juice of a lime, ½ a lemon or ¼ of an orange

• Splash of water

• 3 tbsp chia seeds

• Optional flavour additions:

  • pinch of cinnamon

  • pinch of ginger

  • star anise

Method

Step 1

Wash the berries and add them to a small saucepan with the citrus juice and a splash of water.

Step 2

Gently heat over a low to medium heat until the berries begin to soften and break down. They don’t need to become completely smooth.

Step 3

If using, stir through the frozen wild blueberries and allow them to soften slightly in the heat.

Step 4

Add the chia seeds and stir well to combine. If the mixture feels too thick, add another small splash of water.

Step 5

Remove from the heat and allow the jam to cool slightly before transferring to an airtight jar or container.

Step 6

Store in the fridge and enjoy throughout the week on yoghurt, toast, porridge or however you like.