For the Chia Stovetop Jam:

• 2 cups of Berries (Fresh or Frozen): The foundation of our jam is a generous amount of berries. You can opt for fresh berries when they are in season for the most vibrant flavor and texture. Frozen berries are an excellent alternative, especially during off-seasons, and they work just as well in this recipe. A mix of berries like strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries offers a complex and rich flavor, but you can also choose a single type of berry based on your preference and availability. Consider the sweetness and tartness of the berries you choose; this will impact the final sweetness of your jam.
• 2 tablespoons of Chia Seeds: These tiny powerhouses are the magic ingredient that transforms the berry mixture into a luscious jam. Chia seeds are hydrophilic, meaning they absorb water and create a gel-like consistency. They are also incredibly nutritious, packed with fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein. Both black and white chia seeds will work equally well; the choice is purely aesthetic. Make sure your chia seeds are fresh for the best gelling properties.
• 2 tablespoons of Sweetener (Maple Syrup, Honey, or Agave): To balance the natural tartness of the berries and enhance the overall flavor, we need a touch of sweetener. Maple syrup offers a warm, caramel-like sweetness that complements berries beautifully. Honey provides a floral and slightly richer sweetness, while agave nectar is a vegan option with a milder flavor. Adjust the amount of sweetener to your personal preference and the sweetness of your berries. For a less sweet jam, you can reduce the sweetener or even omit it entirely if your berries are naturally very sweet.
• 1 tablespoon of Lemon Juice (Freshly Squeezed): A squeeze of fresh lemon juice is essential to brighten the flavors of the jam and add a touch of acidity. The lemon juice not only enhances the berry flavor but also acts as a natural preservative and helps to balance the sweetness. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always preferred for its brighter and more complex flavor compared to bottled juice.
• 1/4 cup of Water (Optional): Depending on the moisture content of your berries, you might need a little bit of water to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. If you are using frozen berries, they tend to release more liquid as they thaw and cook, so you might not need to add any water. If using fresh berries, especially less juicy varieties, a quarter cup of water will help to kickstart the cooking process and prevent scorching.

For the Seedy Yogurt Bowl:

• 1 cup of Yogurt (Greek Yogurt, Plant-Based Yogurt, or Regular Yogurt): The creamy base of our bowl is yogurt. Greek yogurt is a fantastic choice for its thick and creamy texture and high protein content. It provides a satisfying and substantial base for the jam and seeds. If you prefer a vegan or dairy-free option, plant-based yogurts like coconut yogurt, almond yogurt, or soy yogurt work equally well. Consider the flavor profile of your chosen yogurt; plain, unsweetened yogurt is recommended to allow the flavors of the jam and seeds to shine through. However, you can also use vanilla yogurt for a slightly sweeter base if desired.
• 1/4 cup of Mixed Seeds (Pumpkin Seeds, Sunflower Seeds, Flax Seeds, Hemp Seeds, Sesame Seeds, etc.): This is where the “seedy” part of our bowl truly comes to life! A mix of different seeds adds a wonderful textural contrast and a boost of nutrients. Pumpkin seeds (pepitas) offer a nutty flavor and satisfying crunch. Sunflower seeds are mild and slightly sweet. Flax seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and add a subtle nutty flavor. Hemp seeds are a complete protein source with a slightly earthy taste. Sesame seeds contribute a delicate nutty flavor and a bit of crunch. Feel free to customize your seed mix based on your preferences and what you have on hand. Toasting the seeds lightly in a dry pan before adding them to the bowl can enhance their flavor and crunch even further.
• Optional Toppings (Fresh Fruit, Granola, Nuts, a Drizzle of Honey or Maple Syrup): While the chia jam and mixed seeds are the stars of the show, you can further enhance your yogurt bowl with a variety of optional toppings. Fresh fruit like sliced bananas, berries, peaches, or kiwi adds extra vitamins and natural sweetness. A sprinkle of granola provides additional crunch and carbohydrates for sustained energy. Chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans offer healthy fats and protein. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can add a touch of extra sweetness if you desire a sweeter bowl. These toppings are entirely customizable to your liking and what you have available.