Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh or frozen berries – I particularly like raspberries
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- 2–3 tablespoons pure maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Optional: 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh lemon balm
- Optional: 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh mint
- Pinch of sea salt (optional, but it really brightens the fruit)
Instructions
- Add the berries and water to a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook for about 3–4 minutes until the berries begin to soften and release their juices.
- Mash the berries with a fork or potato masher, leaving them as chunky or smooth as you prefer.
- Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, maple syrup, vanilla, and chia seeds.
- Simmer for another 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- If using herbs, stir in the chopped lemon balm and mint during the final minute of cooking so they stay fresh and fragrant.
- Remove from the heat and let the jam cool for 5–10 minutes. As it cools, the chia seeds will continue to thicken the mixture.
- Transfer to a clean glass jar and refrigerate.
Notes
I hope this little jar of homemade goodness brings a bit of everyday magic to your kitchen. Whether you’re stirring it into your morning yogurt, spreading it over warm toast, or spooning it onto pancakes, it’s a simple reminder that wholesome food can be both nourishing and incredibly delicious.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: stove top
- Diet: Vegan