Most jams rely on pectin or a tonne of sugar to set properly. In this recipe, chia seeds naturally thicken the jam instead. This simple and healthy raspberry chia jam is made using only four natural ingredients. It has the perfect balance of tart and sweet and has the same jammy consistency, minus the sugar overload.
My kids love jam. They eat it on toast, biscuits, pancakes, anything! Because they love it so much, I prefer to use a healthier option without refined sugars. This beautiful raspberry chia jam is a low sugar alternative to regular jam. Full of flavour, this jam can be used for baking and spreading. You can even spoon it over yoghurt or granola with fresh fruit and it is perfect for kids!
Chia seeds are a perfect way to thicken without using excess sugar. When added to liquid, chia seeds become thick and gelatinous and act as a binding agent to hold the jam together. As a bonus, they are also an incredibly nutritious food. They are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants and also fibre, calcium and iron. Great for school lunchboxes and a healthier sweet treat.
I like to use frozen raspberries for this recipe- they provide a lovely extra tart flavour. But you can use either fresh or frozen depending on availability. Keep this jam in the fridge for up to seven days, or freeze it for baking.
Try it on this easy homemade banana bread, pancakes, scones or jam drop cookies.
Ingredients
- 2 cups frozen raspberries
- 2-3 tbs lemon juice
- zest of one lemon
- 2-3 tbs maple syrup
- 2 tbs chia seeds
Instructions
Place the raspberries, lemon juice, zest and maple syrup together in a small saucepan and stir together over low heat until the raspberries break down. Simmer gently for ten minutes.
Remove from the heat and stir through the chia seeds. Transfer to a sterilised jar and allow to cool.
Enjoy!
Some other healthy snacks you may be interested in;
- healthy blueberry quinoa cupcakes
- healthy choc coconut slice
- chia pudding
- no bake muesli slice
- choc mint bliss balls
- healthy fruit gummies
For more lunchbox inspiration, check out these recipes. For tips on time saving and bulk baking school lunches, see this post here.
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