Are you ready to make a delicious and healthy treat? This Strawberry Coconut Chia Jam recipe is easy and refreshing! With just a few fresh ingredients, you can whip up a spread perfect for toast, yogurt, or even as a topping. Trust me, this jam will add a burst of flavor to your meals. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this tasty delight!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Fresh and Fruity: This Strawberry Coconut Chia Jam is bursting with the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries, making it a delightful addition to any meal or snack.
- Healthy Ingredients: With chia seeds packed with fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, this jam is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a guilt-free treat.
- Easy to Make: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, allowing you to whip up a batch of homemade jam without any fuss.
- Versatile Use: Whether you spread it on toast, mix it into yogurt, or use it as a topping for desserts, this jam adds a tropical twist to your dishes.
Ingredients
Fresh Ingredients Required
– 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
– 1/2 cup creamy coconut milk
– 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
– 1/4 cup chia seeds
– 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
– Pinch of coarse sea salt
To make this jam, you need fresh, ripe strawberries. They provide the sweet base for our jam. Creamy coconut milk adds a rich, tropical flavor. You can sweeten the jam using honey or maple syrup, depending on your taste. Chia seeds are essential for thickening. They soak up liquid and create a nice texture. A bit of vanilla extract adds warmth. Finally, a pinch of sea salt enhances all the flavors.
Suggested Substitutions
– Instead of honey, you can use agave syrup or date syrup for a vegan option.
– If you prefer a lighter flavor, try almond milk or oat milk in place of coconut milk.
These swaps let you customize the jam to your liking. They also offer different flavor notes. Using agave syrup makes it vegan-friendly. Almond milk gives a nutty twist. Oat milk keeps it creamy without coconut flavor. This flexibility makes the jam fun and easy to personalize.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Strawberries
Start by hulling and quartering 2 cups of fresh strawberries. Place them into a medium saucepan with 1/2 cup of creamy coconut milk. Heat this mixture over medium heat. Stir gently for about 5 to 7 minutes. Your goal is to soften the strawberries and let their juices flow out. Once they are soft, take the pan off the heat. Use a fork or a potato masher to lightly mash the strawberries. Keep some chunks for a nice texture in your jam.
Mixing the Ingredients
Next, add sweetness to your jam. Pour in 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup. You can adjust the sweetness based on your taste. Then, stir in 1/4 cup of chia seeds. Add 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract for flavor. Don’t forget a pinch of coarse sea salt; it balances the sweetness. Mix all the ingredients well until they blend together.
Cooling and Setting the Jam
After mixing, let the jam sit for 5 to 10 minutes. This resting time allows the chia seeds to absorb moisture and thicken the jam. Once it’s thickened, transfer your jam into a clean jar. Let it cool completely at room temperature. Then, cover the jar with a lid and refrigerate it for at least 2 hours. For the best results, chill it overnight. This gives the flavors time to meld and helps the texture set perfectly.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Jam Consistency
To make the best strawberry coconut chia jam, let the chia seeds rest. I suggest resting them for about 5 to 10 minutes. This time allows them to soak up the liquid and expand, giving your jam a nice thickness. If your jam feels too runny, add more chia seeds. Start with one tablespoon at a time. Let it rest again after each addition. This simple trick can help you achieve that perfect spreadable texture.
Flavor Enhancements
You can easily boost the flavor of your jam. Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth. You can also mix in other fruits like bananas or blueberries for different tastes. If your jam is too sweet, a squeeze of lemon juice can help balance it out. Taste as you go, and adjust until you find your perfect flavor.
Pro Tips
- Use ripe strawberries: Choose strawberries that are bright red and slightly soft to ensure maximum sweetness and flavor in your jam.
- Adjust sweetness: Taste the berry mixture before adding all the sweetener, as the natural sweetness of the strawberries can vary.
- Chia seed consistency: If you prefer a thicker jam, let the mixture sit a bit longer after adding chia seeds, allowing them to absorb more liquid.
- Storage tips: Store the jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks, or freeze it for longer shelf life.
Variations
Different Fruit Combinations
You can mix different fruits to create new flavors. For a berry blend, try adding blueberries or raspberries. These berries pair well with strawberries and add a nice color. You can also make a tropical jam using mango or pineapple. These fruits give the jam a fun twist and a taste of summer.
Dietary Adjustments
If you want a vegan jam, use maple syrup instead of honey. This keeps it plant-based and sweet. For a low-sugar option, try using a sugar substitute. You can also reduce the honey or syrup amount. These changes make the jam fit different diets while still tasting great.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storage
To keep your Strawberry Coconut Chia Jam fresh, use clean glass jars. Make sure they have tight lids. This helps prevent air from getting in and keeps the jam fresh. If you plan to use it within a week, store it in the fridge. Homemade jam lasts about one week in the refrigerator.
Freezing Instructions
For long-term storage, freezing is a great option. Pour the jam into freezer-safe containers, leaving space at the top for expansion. You can also use freezer bags; just squeeze out the air before sealing. When you’re ready to use it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. This method keeps the texture and flavor intact.
FAQs
How long can I store Strawberry Coconut Chia Jam?
You can keep your Strawberry Coconut Chia Jam in the fridge for about one week. Use a clean jar to store it. This will help keep it fresh and tasty. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it. It can last up to three months in the freezer. Just make sure to use an airtight container.
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries for this jam. Just make sure to thaw them first. Drain any excess liquid before you cook them. This will help keep your jam from being too watery. The taste will still be great, and it makes the recipe a bit easier.
Is this jam suitable for children?
Yes, this jam is great for kids. It has fresh fruit and healthy chia seeds. Chia seeds are rich in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. You can serve it with toast or yogurt. Just watch for any allergies to coconut or strawberries. This jam is a fun and healthy treat for the whole family!
You can make easy Strawberry Coconut Chia Jam with fresh ingredients. I shared simple steps, helpful tips, and tasty variations. You can customize the sweetness and add fun flavors. Store the jam well for the best taste. Try using different fruits or adjust for special diets. This jam is perfect for kids too. Enjoy your homemade treat and feel proud of creating something health
