Easy Vegan Blueberry Chia Jam
Diet Category: Vegan • Vegetarian • Plant-Based • Dairy-Free • Gluten-Free • High-Fibre • Refined-Sugar-Free
Introduction
This easy Vegan Blueberry Chia Jam is a naturally fruity homemade jam made with juicy blueberries, chia seeds, maple syrup, fresh lemon juice, vanilla and a hint of cinnamon. With no pectin and no refined sugar required, it's a simple plant-based alternative to traditional jam.
Blueberries provide plenty of natural sweetness and their beautiful deep-purple colour, while chia seeds naturally thicken the mixture as they absorb liquid. A small amount of maple syrup enhances the sweetness, and lemon, vanilla and cinnamon bring out the flavour of the berries.
Perfect for spreading over vegan pancakes, toast or overnight oats, swirling into plant-based yogurt or adding to porridge and smoothie bowls, this homemade blueberry chia seed jam is an easy way to add more berries, fibre and seeds to breakfast.
Benefits of the Main Ingredients
Blueberries
Blueberries provide fibre, vitamin C, vitamin K and manganese. They're particularly well known for their naturally occurring anthocyanins, the polyphenol pigments responsible for their distinctive blue-purple colour.
Chia Seeds
Chia seeds provide an impressive amount of dietary fibre and naturally absorb liquid, allowing them to thicken homemade jam without traditional pectin. They're also a source of plant-based protein, calcium, magnesium and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an essential omega-3 fatty acid.
Maple Syrup
Maple syrup adds a gentle sweetness that complements the natural flavour of the blueberries. Although it's less processed than conventional white sugar, maple syrup is still considered a free sugar, so only a small amount is needed in this fruit-based recipe.
Lemon Juice
Fresh lemon juice provides acidity that brightens the flavour of the blueberries and balances their sweetness. It also contributes vitamin C and helps give homemade chia jam its fresh, fruity flavour.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon adds warmth and subtle sweetness without requiring additional sugar. It also provides naturally occurring polyphenol plant compounds and pairs particularly well with blueberries.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla enhances the natural sweetness and fruity flavour of the blueberries without adding significant sugar. Its warm aroma works beautifully alongside both cinnamon and maple syrup.