How to Soak the Chia Seeds:
- To a small glass food storage container (or bowl), add 1 tablespoon of chia seeds and 1/4 cup of filtered water.
- Stir with a fork and allow it to sit to soak, while stirring it a few times for the first 20 minutes. Set it aside to continue soaking.
- For best results, the chia seeds should be soaked for about 1-2 hours or preferably overnight. If soaking overnight, cover the container with its lid and allow it to soak overnight in the refrigerator. When ready, the chia seeds should have a gelatinous-like texture.
- The soaked chia seeds can be used once ready or kept in the refrigerator until ready to use.
How to Prepare the Blueberry Chia Jam:
- Add the blueberries and lemon juice to a saucepan, mix, and cook uncovered (over medium heat) for 5 minutes.
- Stir frequently while mashing the berries with the back of your cooking utensil.
- After 5 minutes, add the maple syrup and the soaked chia seeds.
- Mix to combine and cook (stirring frequently) for an additional 3 minutes or until thickened (decrease the heat a bit, if needed). Taste and add more sweetness, if desired.
- Transfer to a glass heat-proof bowl (or container) and set it aside to thicken and cool. Once cooled, use immediately or cover it with its lid and keep it in the refrigerator until ready to use. I like to keep mine for 3-5 days.