Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Put the raspberries in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring and gently mashing, until the berries release their juice and soften. Frozen berries may need a little longer; use the juicy, softened texture as your guide.
- Stir in 2 tablespoons maple syrup, the lemon juice and vanilla. Taste carefully and add up to 1 tablespoon more maple syrup if needed for the berries’ tartness.
- Take the saucepan off the heat and stir in the chia seeds thoroughly. Let stand for 5–10 minutes, stirring again once so the seeds distribute evenly. The mixture will become softly thick and spoonable as it cools.
- Transfer to a clean shallow container and allow to cool briefly, then cover and refrigerate promptly, within 2 hours of cooking. Allow about 20 minutes total for initial setting and cooling; it thickens further in the refrigerator. Divide the batch into eight portions for the stated serving basis.
Nutrition
Notes
Texture: This is a spoonable berry-and-chia spread with visible seeds, rather than a smooth clear jelly. Mash less for more berry texture. Frozen fruit and juicy berries can give a looser result; give the chia time to hydrate before judging thickness.
Flavor options: A little lemon zest, cinnamon or rose water can add another fragrant note; begin with a small amount and taste. Mashed dates may replace some maple syrup but change the texture. Maple syrup is the vegan default; honey is not used.
Refrigerator preparation: This recipe is not a canning recipe and is not shelf-stable. Use a clean container and utensil, refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or colder and use within 3–4 days. Do not water-bath can this chia-thickened formula. Freeze portions for up to 2 months for best quality and thaw in the refrigerator.
Serving and nutrition: Eight servings means one-eighth of the finished batch, not a measured tablespoon yield. Nutrition includes 2 tablespoons maple syrup and excludes any additional sweetener, flavor variations and serving accompaniments. Check packaged ingredients for vegan and gluten-free suitability.
