How to Make Vegan Strawberry Jam at Home

Making your own vegan strawberry jam at home is easy, fun, and a healthier alternative to store-bought versions. With just a few ingredients, you can enjoy the sweet taste of homemade jam without the added sugars or preservatives. Here’s a simple recipe to create delicious vegan strawberry jam that’s perfect for toast, desserts, or even as a topping for pancakes!

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and chopped)

• 1/4 cup maple syrup (or your preferred sweetener)

• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

• 2 tablespoons chia seeds (as a natural thickener)

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Strawberries:
Wash and hull the strawberries. Cut them into small pieces to help them break down easily while cooking.

Cook the Strawberries:
In a large saucepan, add the chopped strawberries, maple syrup, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine. Heat the mixture over medium heat, bringing it to a simmer. Mash the strawberries with a potato masher or fork as they soften.

Simmer the Jam:
Let the mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The strawberries will break down, and the liquid will start to thicken. If you’d like a smoother jam, you can continue mashing it or use an immersion blender for a finer texture.

Add the Chia Seeds:
Stir in the chia seeds, which will help thicken the jam and give it that jelly-like consistency. Continue to cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and further thicken the jam.

Taste and Adjust:
Taste your jam and adjust sweetness by adding more maple syrup if needed. You can also add a touch of vanilla extract for extra flavor if desired.

Cool and Store:
Remove the pan from the heat and let the jam cool to room temperature. The jam will continue to thicken as it cools. Once it has cooled, transfer it to a jar or airtight container and refrigerate. The jam should keep for about 1-2 weeks in the fridge.

Tips for Perfect Vegan Strawberry Jam:

• Sweetener Options: If you prefer other sweeteners, you can use agave syrup, coconut sugar, or even stevia as a substitute for maple syrup.

• Texture: For a chunkier jam, mash the strawberries less. For a smoother texture, blend or mash the strawberries more.

• Storage: If you want to store your jam for longer, consider canning it using sterilized jars. Make sure the jam is sealed properly to ensure its longevity.

Conclusion:

Making your own vegan strawberry jam is a simple way to enjoy a healthier version of this classic spread. With natural ingredients like fresh strawberries, maple syrup, and chia seeds, you can create a delicious, guilt-free treat that’s perfect for any time of the day.