Do you love jam and jelly, but would like a healthier alternative? Or maybe you’re like me and buy a little more produce than your family can eat before it goes bad. The last time my produce drawer was a bit too full, I made a guilt-Free Jam, that I absolutely loved!

Chose your fruit

The recipe is based on one found online, with a few modifications. I had strawberries, blueberries and a mango that needed to be used before they were too far gone. A few frozen blueberries were also added to get just the right flavor.

First choose your fruit, weather it’s growing in your garden, already in your fridge, or you’re heading to the store. You’ll want to choose fruits that fit your preferences and have flavors that blend well together.

You’ll also need agave syrup, chia seeds, lemon juice and vanilla extract. No pectin needed!

The agave syrup will sweeten your jam. Chia seeds will act as your thickener. While lemon juice and vanilla extract will both enhance the flavor of the fruits you choose.

Let’s get to the specifics of the recipe!

The Recipe

• Fruit of choice
  • For each pint of fruit, you need the following:
• 2-3 tablespoons agave syrup, depending on how sweet you like your jam
• 3 tablespoons chia seeds
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Salt (optional)

Directions:

Remember all measurements are per pint of fruit you’re using.

• Cut up fruit into bite size pieces/slices
• Place fruit and agave syrup into sauce pan
• Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-low/medium heat
• Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring frequently
• Once fruit is softened, mash in pan using meat mallet, fork, potato masher, etc.
• Turn heat to low and stir in chia seeds
• Cook an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until desired consistency is reached

---

• Once desired consistency is reached, remove from heat
• Stir in vanilla extract and lemon juice.
• Add a pinch of salt and additional agave to taste if desired

---

After cooling, pour jam into sealable containers and store in refrigerator.

Notes:

I used this recipe using roughly 3 pints of fruit, which yielded approximately 2 pints of jam. If you adapt it to a large batch please let me know your results!

I typically can my jam, but did not with this batch. I will update this post once I have canned a jam made using this recipe. My jam stored well in the refrigerator for several weeks.

Citrus fruits are different from other types of fruits and usually are made into marmalade. i.e. orange marmalade. I’ve never made marmalade or any jam using a citrus fruit. I wouldn’t recommend this recipe for citrus fruit. If you decide to try it please let me know your results!

No Guilt

If you love jam, but not the sugar and calories, this a great option for you! Quick and easy to make. Pure fruit, added plant based protein from chia seeds and a minimal amount of natural sweetener you can enjoy this jam with absolutely no guilt, knowing you are fueling your body well!

Find gardening and sustainable living tips on my website: Simple Living by Simply Julie Co.

Original recipe from Showmetheyummy.com