Berry Chia Seed Jam (Healthy & Easy Recipe) - The Simple Veganista (2024)

FAQs

What are the benefits of chia seed jam? ›

They are full of antioxidants that protect our bodies against free radicals and they are also full of fiber which is excellent for our digestive health. Chia seeds are an easy way to add minerals to your diet- they're are full of calcium, iron, zinc, copper, manganese, niacin, and magnesium.

That is right – chia seeds can be used as a direct substitute to pectin! This strawberry chia jam comes together in minutes and uses no refined sugar or pectin. Better still it is PACKED with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals!

Chia seeds can be frozen and retain their nutritional value for up to 2 years. If you freeze them, use an airtight freezer bag that is either black or other dark color to retain the seeds' original color. If you don't care about the original color, any freezer bag works.

Egg Substitute

The thickening power of chia lets you replace an egg with 1 tablespoon of ground chia seeds and 3 tablespoons of water when baking. It only works with baking though.

Chia seeds are rich in fiber, which can help improve stool frequency and consistency. Experts recommend waiting for chia seeds to become gel-like while soaking in liquid in order to avoid making your constipation worse.

Chia seeds may be small, but they're incredibly rich in nutrients. A staple in the ancient Aztec and Maya diets, these seeds have been touted for their health benefits for centuries. The nutrients in chia seeds may promote heart health, support strong bones, and improve blood sugar management ( 1 ).

The fiber in chia seeds is mainly soluble fiber and mucilage, the substance responsible for the gluey texture of moistened chia seeds. These fibers may help to lower LDL cholesterol and slow down digestion, which can prevent blood sugar spikes after eating a meal and promote a feeling of fullness.

The first is to check for signs of moisture or mold. Mold grows very quickly in chia seeds that have gotten moist, so if you see any dampness at all, you can conclude that the seeds are no longer edible. Next, look for seeds that have clumped together, as this is a sign that the oil inside the seeds is rancid.

One of the most noticeable signs that chia seeds have gone bad is a rancid or musty smell. Fresh chia seeds have a mild, nutty aroma. If you detect any off-putting odors when you open the container, it's a clear indication that the seeds have spoiled and should not be consumed.

These tiny seeds can provide fiber that helps lower cholesterol, boost your heart health and reduce your risk of developing chronic disease. That said, because chia seeds are packed with fiber and are calorie dense, stick with no more than 2 tablespoons per day.

What happens if you eat chia seeds without soaking? ›

Eating them dry can give a crunchy feeling and they're great in smoothies or baking. Just remember to drink enough water when you eat them dry so they don't soak up water in your stomach, which might make you feel thirsty. So, soaking chia seeds is good, but it's not compulsory. You can enjoy them dry too.

Chia seeds come in black and white and, the good news is, according to Southern, that there's very little nutritional difference between the two. The black seeds tend to be slightly smaller than the white, so are more often used for eating; while the white ones work well ground into flour.

This superfood can soak up to 10 times its weight in liquid, which is what creates that gel-like texture, so it's important to let it thicken before making your beverage. All you have to do is mix a few tablespoons of chia seeds together with hot or cold water, depending on what type of coffee you're making.

A 2-tablespoon serving (which is a TON of seeds) has 150 calories, 10g of fiber, 6g of protein and 10g of fat, most of which is the healthy polyunsaturated variety. In terms of how much chia to eat each day, it's smart to stick to the 2-tablespoon serving size.

Because they quickly swell after absorbing liquid, it is advised to eat chia seeds that have already been soaked in liquid or are served with a moist food, such as oatmeal or yogurt. Do not eat dry chia seeds by themselves.