All you need is 2 ingredients for this incredibly delicious and sugar free strawberry jam! So simple to prepare and ready in no time. Even if this is your first time making jam, this foolproof recipe has got you covered!
This recipe was originally published in September 2018. It has been updated for content and photos.
Where are all my jam lovers? If you love jam, but not the loads of calories and sugar that typically come with it, this sugar free option is for you!!
Just like my blueberry jam, this one is naturally sweetened, secretly healthy, and incredibly delicious!
I think you’re going to LOVE this vegan strawberry jam because:
- It’s made with JUST TWO ingredients!
- No chemicals or additives.
- Healthy!! Yes, truly, it’s just strawberries and chia seeds. So you even get a protein boost from your jelly.
- LOW sugar, making it perfect for weight management, and a great, guilt free option for your little ones.
- Simple to make and ready in UNDER 20 minutes.
How to make it
(This is a summary with step by step photos, full recipe measurements and instructions are in the recipe card below.)
All you need is 2 ingredients: strawberries and chia seeds.
If you have a sweet tooth, add in the optional maple syrup. But if your strawberries are fresh and ripe, I promise you won’t need it.
Wash, hull and quarter your strawberries, and add them to a pan. (photo 1)
Now cook over medium heat until bubbling and the strawberries are soft, approx. 6-8 minutes. (photo 2)
Use a potato masher to gently mash the strawberries, but still leaving a few chunks throughout. (photos 3-4)
Once mashed, add the chia seeds (and optional maple syrup, if using) and mix well. (photos 5-6)
Set the pan aside to cool slightly, and then divide into clean jars.
How to use it
Spread it on toast, make PB+J sandwiches, dollop over nice cream, or fudgy brownies, layer it in a cake, and so much more!
Storage
Store your chia strawberry jam in small, clean jars. I like to keep 1 jar in the fridge for immediate use (within 1 week) and freeze the remaining jars for future use, for up to 4 months.
Common Questions
You may use frozen strawberries if you don’t have fresh available. They will take a little longer to cook through, but you may sub them cup for cup.
I use black as I find them the most common and easy to find. However, they do darken the jam a little. You may use white chia seeds for brighter results.
Yes, check out my blueberry chia jam for more inspiration. You may also use raspberries or blackberries, too.
Give your strawberry chia jam enough time to cool and set. As it cools, the chia seeds will absorb any excess liquid, resulting in a thicker, non runny jelly.
Either, not enough chia seeds were used, or not enough time has passed to allow your chia seeds to work their magic. Make sure to refrigerate your jam for at least 4 hours before enjoying.
You may grind your chia seeds before adding them to your strawberries if preferred. Or you may purchase ground chia seeds.
Yes, this jam recipe is easily doubled or more. I like making a big batch to have enough jam to freeze for several months.
Expert Tips
- Use CLEAN jars to store your strawberry jam.
- If the jam appears a little watery once cooked, not to worry. As it cools, the chia seeds will continue to absorb the liquid and leave behind a perfectly textured, thick jelly.
- I use black chia seeds, as those are easiest to find where I live. They do darken the jam colour slightly, but you may use white chia seeds for a brighter coloured jam, if available.
- For a slightly thinner consistency, reduce the chia seeds to 1/4 cup.
More delicious strawberry recipes
- Strawberry Banana Popsicles
- Banana Strawberry Bread
- Strawberry Pineapple Smoothie
- Vegan Strawberry Pie [Low Sugar]
If you tried this recipe, please let me know about it in the comments below. I always love hearing from you! Don’t forget to Subscribe to This Healthy Kitchen to be among the first to get my new recipes! You can also FOLLOW ME on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter to see more delicious food and get all the latest updates.
Buon appetito
Rosa
Equipment
-
Potato Masher
Ingredients
- 2 pounds strawberries washed & hulled (approx. 5 cups quartered)
- 1/3 cup chia seeds
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup optional
Instructions
- Quarter the strawberries and add to a large pan. Cook over medium heat for 6-8 minutes, until soft and bubbling.
- Then remove from the heat and use a potato masher to gently mash the strawberries, but still leaving some chunky fruit pieces. Add the chia seeds and maple syrup, if using, and mix well.
- Set aside to let cool slightly, and then divide the jam into clean, air tight jars. Jam will completely set once refrigerated overnight or at least 4 hours. Refrigerate to use within 1 week or freeze for up to 4 months.
Clare
Do you add any liquid when you are cooking down the berries.
Rosa
Hi Clare, no need to add any liquid, the strawberries will release their own liquid as they heat up. Enjoy! 🙂
Cindy
Made it immediately when I got your email because I happened to have fresh local strawberries available! I skipped the maple syrup because my strawberries were already very sweet and this jam is perfect!! I love how healthy it is, and my kids enjoyed some too. Sure beats the sugar filled processed stuff from the store. Thank you for all you do, Rosa!
Rosa
Thrilled to hear that Cindy! Thanks so much for sharing. 🙂