Prepare the Strawberries - Wash your strawberries thoroughly under running water and remove the stems. Chop them into slices or small pieces.
Cook the Strawberries - Place the chopped strawberries and lemon juice in a saucepan and cook them over medium heat until they start to break down and release their juices. Mash them with a potato masher or large spoon and stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning. This process usually takes around 5-7 minutes.
Add the Chia Seeds - Once the strawberries have softened and become slightly mushy, add the chia seeds to the saucepan. Stir well to evenly distribute the seeds throughout the mixture. The chia seeds will absorb the liquid and help thicken the jam.
Sweeten and Flavor - Now it's time to add a touch of sweetness to your jam. Pour your sweetener of choice into the saucepan. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld. Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness according to your preference.
Thicken and Cool - Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for an additional 5 minutes, or until it reaches your desired consistency. The jam will continue to thicken as it cools, so don't worry if it seems slightly runny at this stage. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the jam cool down to room temperature.
Store and Enjoy - Once your Strawberry Chia Jam has cooled, transfer it to a clean glass jar or airtight container. Seal it tightly and refrigerate for a few hours or overnight to allow the chia seeds to fully absorb the liquid and set the jam.
Notes
You can eat the jam immediately or allow it to cool for a few hours in the fridge first.
Remember that the jam will continue to thicken for a few hours after cooking.
If you prefer a smoother jam, you can blend the jam briefly in a food processor or blender.