Nutty Slices with Strawberry Chia Jam Recipe

Introduction

Welcome to Love With Recipes, your trusted source for culinary inspiration and detailed, high-quality recipes. Today, we explore a sophisticated dessert that elegantly combines the richness of nuts with the vibrant sweetness of strawberry chia jam—Nutty Slices with Strawberry Chia Jam. This delicately layered treat is perfect for those who appreciate gourmet flavors, healthful ingredients, and creative presentation. Rooted in a fusion of traditional nut-based confections and contemporary superfood enhancements, this recipe exemplifies how simple ingredients can be transformed into an indulgent yet wholesome dessert. Whether you’re preparing for a special occasion, a refined afternoon tea, or simply wish to elevate your dessert repertoire, this recipe offers a blend of nutritional benefits, delightful textures, and visual appeal that will impress your guests or satisfy your personal sweet tooth with elegance.

Time

Total preparation and cooking time: Approximately 1 hour and 40-55 minutes.

• Preparation time: 30-40 minutes
• Chilling and setting time for jam: 1 hour
• Assembly time: 10-15 minutes

The majority of this time is dedicated to preparing the nutty base and allowing the strawberry chia jam to set, ensuring optimal texture and flavor integration.

Needed Equipment

• Food processor: For chopping nuts and blending the base mixture.
• Saucepan: To cook the strawberries and prepare the chia jam.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Precision in ingredient measurement.
• Silicone spatula or wooden spoon: For stirring and mixing ingredients.
• Square or rectangular baking dish: For assembling and setting the nutty base.
• Parchment paper: To line the baking dish for easy removal.
• Knife and chopping board: For preparing strawberries and other ingredients.
• Glass jar or airtight container: For storing the strawberry chia jam.
• Refrigerator: To chill and set the jam and assembled dessert.

Tags

• Healthy dessert
• Nut-based
• Vegan
• Gluten-free
• Raw and cooked
• Chia seed recipe
• Fruit jam
• Gourmet
• Vegetarian

Serving Size

Each serving is approximately one slice or square, with a typical portion weighing about 100 grams. The recipe yields approximately 8-10 slices, depending on the size of cuts.

Difficulty Level

This recipe is classified as moderate. It requires some familiarity with food processing, cooking strawberries, and assembling layered desserts, but it is accessible to home cooks with basic kitchen skills and patience.

Allergen Information

Dietary Preference

This recipe is suitable for:

• Vegan (if honey is replaced with maple syrup or agave nectar)
• Vegetarian
• Gluten-free (assuming gluten-free oats are used if included)
• Refined sugar-free (if honey or maple syrup is used sparingly)

Course

Desert / Sweet Snack

Cuisine

Fusion of contemporary health-conscious cuisine with Mediterranean and global influences.

Ingredients

Nutty Slice Base

Strawberry Chia Jam

Instructions

Preparing the Nutty Slice Base

1. **Chopping the Nuts:** Begin by placing the mixed nuts into the bowl of a high-powered food processor. Pulse in short bursts until the nuts are finely chopped but not turned into a paste. The goal is a coarse, crumbly texture that will bind together when combined with the dates.

2. **Processing the Dates and Other Ingredients:** Add the pitted dates, shredded coconut, cacao powder, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt into the food processor. Continue blending until the mixture becomes sticky and starts to clump together. If it feels too dry, incorporate a teaspoon of water or a small splash of almond milk to facilitate binding.

3. **Forming the Base:** Line your baking dish with parchment paper, ensuring some overhang on the sides for easy removal. Transfer the mixture into the dish and press firmly into an even layer using the back of a spoon or a small spatula. Apply consistent pressure to ensure the base is compact and level. For best results, refrigerate the base while preparing the jam.

Making the Strawberry Chia Jam

1. **Cooking Strawberries:** In a saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries with honey (or maple syrup). Set over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries release their juices and soften, about 5-7 minutes. Use a spoon or potato masher to gently mash the strawberries if you prefer a smoother jam.

2. **Adding Chia Seeds:** Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the chia seeds and vanilla extract. The chia seeds will absorb the fruit juices and thicken the mixture, creating a jam-like consistency. Allow the mixture to cool for 5-10 minutes, then transfer it into a sterilized glass jar or container.

3. **Chilling:** Seal the jar and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or until the jam is fully set. Chia seed jams tend to thicken further upon cooling, so patience yields the best texture.

Assembling the Nutty Slices with Strawberry Chia Jam

1. **Removing the Base:** Once the nutty base has set and firmed up in the refrigerator (preferably for 30 minutes), lift it out of the dish using the parchment overhang. Place it on a cutting board.

2. **Spreading the Jam:** Spread an even layer of the prepared strawberry chia jam over the nutty base using a spatula or the back of a spoon. Cover the entire surface, ensuring an even thickness for consistent slices.

3. **Cutting into Servings:** Using a sharp knife, cut the assembled dessert into slices or squares of your desired size. Serve immediately or store in the refrigerator for later enjoyment.

Preparation Tips

• Choosing the Nuts: Use a mix of your favorite nuts for a balanced flavor profile. Toasted nuts can add a deeper aroma, but raw nuts are fine for a more delicate taste.
• Sweetening Options: Adjust the sweetness of the jam according to the ripeness of strawberries and personal preference. You can substitute honey with agave nectar or coconut nectar for vegan options.
• Texture Variations: For a crunchier base, add chopped nuts or seeds on top before pressing into the dish.
• Jam Consistency: If your jam is too thick, stir in a little warm water or lemon juice to loosen it up. If too runny, add extra chia seeds and refrigerate to set further.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Enhancing Flavors: Add a dash of lemon juice or zest to the strawberry jam for brightness.
• Presentation: Serve slices on a bed of fresh berries or with a dollop of coconut whipped cream for an elegant touch.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the nutty base and jam a day in advance. Assemble just before serving to maintain freshness.
• Customizations: Incorporate other fruits like blueberries or raspberries into the jam for variety.

Add-ons

• Top with toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts for extra crunch.
• Drizzle with dark chocolate or vegan caramel sauce for added decadence.
• Add a layer of dairy-free yogurt or cashew cream for a creamy contrast.

Side Dishes

• Fresh mixed berry salad
• Coconut yogurt parfaits
• Herbal tea or floral infusions to complement the sweetness
• Light fruit sorbets or sherbets

Improvements

• Integrate other superfoods like matcha powder into the base for added antioxidants.
• Use different nuts or seeds to vary the flavor profile and texture.
• Experiment with different fruit jams, such as raspberry or mango, for diversity.
• Incorporate a thin layer of dark chocolate or cacao nibs for a richer taste.

Save and Store

Store the assembled slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness. The nutty base can be prepared in advance and kept refrigerated for up to 5 days. The strawberry chia jam, stored in a sealed jar, lasts for about 1 week in the fridge. For longer storage, the nut base and jam can be frozen separately for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and assemble fresh slices.

FAQ

Can I use other nuts besides almonds, walnuts, and pecans?

Yes. Cashews, hazelnuts, or macadamia nuts work well, offering different textures and flavors. Adjust processing time accordingly, as some nuts are softer or oilier.

Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?

Absolutely. Just replace honey with a plant-based sweetener like maple syrup, agave nectar, or coconut nectar to keep it vegan-friendly.

Can I make the jam ahead of time?

Yes. The strawberry chia jam can be prepared up to 1 week in advance and stored in the refrigerator. It tastes even better after flavors meld.

Can I substitute other fruits for strawberries?

Definitely. Raspberries, blueberries, or mango can be used, but adjust cooking time and sweetness accordingly. Adjust chia seed quantity if necessary for desired consistency.

What are the best nuts for flavor and texture?

Almonds and pecans provide a mild, sweet flavor, while walnuts add a slightly bitter note. Toasting nuts beforehand enhances aroma and flavor.

Conclusion

Nutty Slices with Strawberry Chia Jam exemplify how natural ingredients can be combined to craft a dessert that is not only indulgent but also nourishing. Its layered textures, vibrant flavors, and healthful ingredients make it a versatile addition to any meal or celebration. The process encourages creativity—whether in choosing nuts, adjusting sweetness, or experimenting with fruit variations—making each batch uniquely yours. Remember, the key to a perfect Nutty Slice lies in patience: allowing the base to firm up and the jam to set ensures clean cuts and a delightful eating experience. Share this recipe with friends or enjoy it as a reward for your culinary efforts. For more gourmet recipes and detailed cooking guides, stay tuned to Love With Recipes, your culinary partner in creating extraordinary dishes from everyday ingredients.

References

• Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health – The Nutrition Source: Nuts and Health
• Harvard Health Publishing – The Benefits of Chia Seeds