Easy Chia Jam and Gel

Aren’t plump, juicy berries some of the most beguiling things? Flavors that sing, shapes that pop and squish delightfully, and possessing an antioxidant and polyphenol style power that belies their size. For maximal mightiness, combine them with superfood chia seeds and a splash of lemon juice for jam, and toss in some of your favorite supplements while you’re at it (I love Organic India’s Joy).

Any fruit melds beautifully with nutrient-packed chia seeds, and jam is sooo simple to whip up—without all the refined sugars or artificial colors or preservatives, what’s to stop you from trying all your favorites? And, following the same train of thought, the sky’s the limit when it comes to varying with chia gels, too.

Much like the berries paired here, chia seeds are the quintessential proof that good things come in small packages. Like magic, these tiny seeds can absorb up to twelve times their bodyweight, transforming syrupy cooked fruit into thick, luscious jams and creamy puddings. They’re also an amazing plant-based source of omega-3 fatty acids, as well as protein, fiber, and more. That’s a recipe alone for some stupendous sport fuel. Sport fuel that, like this jam, is free from all the stuff you don’t want. You’re in control.

Chia Jam and Gel

To be totally up front, this chia gel tastes a lot like the jam, just thinned out with a different kind of zing—a hint of coconut and a speck of saltiness. And, also in the spirit of full disclosure, I have not tried it out mid-run. I have taken it like any gel about an hour before solid long runs, though, as well as during mountain hikes, and my experience has been that it sets me up with notably good energy.

It only takes minutes of active time—and mere minutes of waiting—to make either version of this chia concoction. The lovely jam is delicious with yogurt, porrdidge, toast, even swirled in cakes and brownies. Enhance that goodness even further with herbal supplements. Play with the flavors, thickness, and zestiness. No matter what you choose, this versatile jam offers delectable taste and TLC.



Chia and Berry (any fruit) Joy Jam
2 cups berries or any fruit of choice, chopped (stemmed, seeded or peeled depending on fruit)
1-2 Tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 Tablespoons chia seeds (plus 1-2 Teaspoons extra if needed)
1 Teaspoon ORGANIC INDIA Joy (or supplement of choice)
1-2 Tablespoons maple syrup, agave, or sweetener of choice (optional)


Prepare your fruit, cutting large fruits into smaller pieces. Berries can be left whole.

Transfer the fruit to a saucepan and set over medium heat. Cook until it begins to break down and becomes syrupy, about 5 minutes. Lightly mash with a potato masher or back of a spatula or large spoon.

Remove the pot from heat and stir in the lemon juice, chia seeds, and ORGANIC INDIA supplement of choice. Add sweetener to taste.

Let the jam stand at least 5 minutes to thicken. After five minutes, feel free to stir in more chia seeds 1 teaspoon at a time.

Homemade chia energy gel

1/2 cup coconut water
2-3 Tablespoons date syrup (or swap in agave or other alternative), optional
1 cup pureed berries
2 Tablespoons chia seeds
pinch salt

chill a few hours