Ingredients
- Wild Blueberries (frozen or fresh): 1 cup
- Filtered Water (still or sparkling): 3 cups
- Chia Seeds: 3 tablespoons
- Maple Syrup (or agave): 1/4 cup (adjust to taste)
- Fresh Lime Juice: 2 tablespoons
- Ice Cubes: 1 cup (for serving)
- Pinch of fine sea salt: 1/8 teaspoon
- Fresh Mint Sprigs: 4 (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Gently mash or lightly blend the wild blueberries in a small bowl until they release their juices, resulting in a chunky puree.
- Step 2: In a large pitcher or jar, combine the mashed wild blueberries, water, maple syrup, lime juice, and sea salt. Stir well until the sweetener and salt are fully dissolved.
- Step 3: Add the chia seeds to the mixture. Stir vigorously for one full minute to ensure the seeds are evenly dispersed throughout the liquid and prevent them from settling or clumping immediately at the bottom.
- Step 4: Refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours, but preferably 4 hours or overnight, allowing the chia seeds sufficient time to swell and create the thick, gelatinous fresca texture.
- Step 5: Stir the mixture thoroughly one last time just before serving, as some of the blueberry sediment may have settled. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity if needed.
- Step 6: Fill tall glasses with ice cubes, pour the Wild Blueberry Chia Fresca over the ice, and garnish each serving with a fresh mint sprig.
Notes
- Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; if the texture becomes overly thick after extended storage, whisk in a splash of fresh water or lime juice before serving.
- Stirring the chia seeds vigorously for the full minute immediately upon adding them is critical, as this prevents clumping and ensures the perfect, uniform hydration for that ideal gelatinous texture.
- For an immediate frozen treat, omit the ice cubes and instead blend the chilled, set fresca with 1 cup of additional ice until smooth, creating a refreshing slushie.
- Use frozen wild blueberries for the initial mash—their softer texture and immediate juice release intensifies both the flavor and the deep purple hue of the final drink faster than fresh berries.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American