Raspberry Chia Jam 

KDHamptons  Health and Wellness Editor, Charlotte LaGuardia offers up a new way to supercharge your breakfast with easy homemade raspberry jam and sweet potato toast!

Hot toast fresh from the toaster with melted butter and a dab of sweet jam was a go to in my house growing up. I didn’t think much of the sugar content, processing byproducts, or pesticides lurking in the jar. As I grew older I began to make different choices with my health in mind. However, sometimes there is a real craving for a crispy piece of toast with jam and I was determined to make a delicious healthy alternative.

Chia seed jam has a similar texture and flavor to conventional options however it contains whole, nutrient dense, fruits, anti-inflammatory chia seeds, and the added sugar is always optional!  Due to the availability of fresh produce, I chose to use frozen raspberries instead of fresh. In the winter, when I can no longer run down to the farmstead, frozen berries are a more nutritious option because flash freezing locks nutrients in. 

Chia seeds are a great plant-based source of anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids and contain soluble fiber to promote regularity, hydration, and the elimination of excess cholesterol and toxins. 

Sweet potato toast is a fun alternative to bread. It comes packed with vitamin A, fiber, and antioxidants. Simply bake thin slices in the oven at 450 degrees for 15 minutes. 

Raspberry Chia Jam

3 Cups Frozen Organic Raspberries

1 TBS Fresh Lemon Juice

2 TBS Filtered Water

1.5 TBS Chia Seeds

Splash Vanilla Extract

Pinch of Pink Salt 

Optional: 2 TBS Maple Syrup

Add raspberries, water, lemon juice, and if using, maple syrup to a saucepan. Over medium heat, bring to a boil. Be sure to constantly stir to break up the berries, roughly 10 minutes. 

Add chia seeds and stir until thick, about 8 minutes. Let cool and add vanilla and salt. Place in an airtight container and cool in the fridge for 2 hours. This will give it that jelly texture! Store in the fridge for up to 3 weeks 

Lastly, feel free to experiment with other types of berries and flavorings!

Surrounded by our local small farms, fresh seafood, and wineries Charlotte learned the benefits of nutrient dense foods first hand and will share her integrative approach, rooted in science, with KDHamptons readers through recipes, tips, and features on health and wellness. (Be sure to follow her on Insta @thriveeastnutrition)