Description
This vibrant and versatile Chia Berry Sauce is a quick and healthy way to enjoy the natural sweetness and tartness of berries. Made with frozen fruit, orange juice or water, maple syrup, and chia seeds, this sauce thickens naturally into a jammy texture without added preservatives. Perfect as a topping for yogurt, pancakes, or toast, it’s a nutritious, fiber-rich option that’s ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit Base
- 3 cups frozen fruit (berries of your choice)
- 2 tablespoons orange juice or water (orange juice helps cut tartness)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
Thickening Agent
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds (add 1 tablespoon extra for a more jammy consistency)
Instructions
- Heat the Fruit: Place 3 cups of frozen fruit into a medium-sized pot. Add 2 tablespoons of orange juice or water and 1 tablespoon of maple syrup if using. Turn the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Muddle the Fruit: Once simmering, use a potato masher to mash the fruit to your preferred consistency. This helps release the natural juices and breaks down the fruit to create the base of the sauce.
- Add Chia Seeds: Remove the pot from heat and stir in 2 tablespoons of chia seeds thoroughly, making sure they are evenly dispersed throughout the fruit mixture.
- Let it Thicken: Allow the mixture to sit for 20 to 25 minutes. During this time, the chia seeds will absorb liquid and thicken the sauce. For a thicker, more jam-like consistency, stir in an additional 1 to 2 tablespoons of chia seeds after the resting period.
- Store the Sauce: Transfer the finished chia berry sauce to a mason jar or airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days for best freshness.
Notes
- Use any combination of berries such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup or omitting it for a more tart sauce.
- For a smoother sauce, mash fruit more thoroughly, or blend briefly after cooking.
- Adding extra chia seeds increases thickness but also intensifies the texture; adjust to your preference.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature over toast, yogurt, oatmeal, or pancakes.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: berry sauce, chia seed jam, healthy fruit sauce, vegan sauce, breakfast topping, easy sauce
