Strawberry Rhubarb Chia Seed Jam (No Pectin) Recipe
This Strawberry Rhubarb Chia Seed Jam is a simple, homemade preserves recipe that requires no pectin. Combining fresh strawberries, diced rhubarb, brown cane sugar, and chia seeds, this jam thickens naturally to create a perfectly sweet and tangy spread. The chia seeds not only add a nutritional boost but also help the jam achieve the ideal gel-like consistency without traditional thickeners. It’s cooked gently on the stovetop and ideal for those seeking a natural, easy, and delicious fruit preserve.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 18 minutes
- Yield: About 1.5 cups of jam 1x
- Category: Preserves
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit and Base Ingredients
- 2 cups sliced fresh strawberries
- 2 cups rhubarb, diced small (leafy ends removed)
Sweetener and Thickener
- 1/3 cup brown cane sugar (can add more to taste as it cooks down)
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
Flavor Enhancer
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Cook the Fruit: In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, diced rhubarb, brown cane sugar, and water. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a steady bubble. Stir occasionally and cook for about 8 minutes or until the fruit is completely softened and broken down, with almost no visible strawberry pieces remaining. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.
- Mash and Mix: Remove the saucepan from heat. Use a potato masher to further break down any remaining large fruit pieces for a smoother jam texture. Stir in the chia seeds and fresh lemon juice thoroughly, which will help thicken the jam naturally.
- Cool and Thicken: Set the jam aside to cool at room temperature. Allow it to sit for at least one hour, during which the chia seeds will plump and help the jam firm up to the perfect consistency.
- Store the Jam: Transfer the cooled jam into a sealable canning jar or airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and further set the jam.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once chilled and set, your Strawberry Rhubarb Chia Seed Jam is ready to enjoy on toast, yogurt, or as a sweet addition to desserts.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of brown sugar to taste depending on your preferred level of sweetness.
- Make sure to remove the leafy ends of the rhubarb before dicing as they are toxic.
- The chia seeds work as a natural thickener and also add omega-3 fatty acids and fiber.
- Store jam in the refrigerator and consume within 2 weeks for best quality.
- If you prefer a smoother jam, you can blend the fruit mixture before adding chia seeds.
Keywords: strawberry rhubarb jam, chia seed jam, no pectin jam, homemade preserves, easy fruit jam, healthy jam, natural thickener
