Elderberry Chia Seed Jam
This vibrant Elderberry Chia Seed Jam is a healthy, no-sugar-added spread, perfect for toast, yogurt, or oatmeal. It harnesses the natural gelling power of chia seeds for a quick and nutritious treat.
For 4 servings
Thoroughly rinse the elderberries and ensure all stems are removed. If using frozen elderberries, there is no need to thaw them.
In a small saucepan, combine the de-stemmed elderberries and water. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the elderberries are very soft and have burst open.
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Using a potato masher or the back of a spoon, gently mash the elderberries to your desired consistency. For a smoother jam, you can use an immersion blender briefly.
Stir in the chia seeds and fresh lemon juice. Mix well to ensure the chia seeds are evenly distributed and no clumps form.
Let the jam sit at room temperature for at least 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken to a jam-like consistency. It will continue to thicken as it cools.
Transfer the elderberry chia seed jam to a clean, airtight jar or container.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow it to fully set. The jam will become firmer as it chills.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Adjust Sweetness: While designed to be sugar-free, if your elderberries are particularly tart or you prefer a sweeter jam, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of maple syrup, honey, or a few drops of liquid stevia after cooking, adjusting to your taste.
- 2Smooth vs. Chunky: For a very smooth jam, press the cooked and mashed elderberry mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds and skins before adding the chia seeds and lemon juice.
- 3Storage: This jam will last for up to 1-2 weeks in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers.
- 4Serving Suggestions: Enjoy this jam on toast, stirred into yogurt or oatmeal, as a topping for pancakes or waffles, or even as a healthy filling for thumbprint cookies.
Adapt it for your goals.
Sweetener Boost
For a slightly sweeter jam, add 1-2 tablespoons of maple syrup, honey, or a few drops of stevia after cooking, adjusting to your taste.
Spice It UpSpice It Up
Incorporate warming spices like a pinch of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or a tiny amount of fresh ginger during the simmering process for added depth of flavor.
Mixed BerryMixed Berry
Combine elderberries with other fruits like raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a multi-berry jam. Adjust water content if other fruits release a lot of liquid.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Immune Support
Elderberries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, particularly Vitamin C, known for their immune-boosting properties and ability to help fight off colds and flu.
Digestive Health
Chia seeds are an excellent source of dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion, regulating bowel movements, and contributing to a feeling of fullness.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Chia seeds are packed with plant-based omega-3 fatty acids (ALA), which are beneficial for heart health and reducing inflammation.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, frozen elderberries work perfectly for this recipe. There's no need to thaw them beforehand; simply add them to the pot with water and proceed with the recipe.
