The most delicious and quick chia pudding recipe
Chia seeds are an amazing source of essential fatty acids, making them a natural anti-inflammatory. Talk about using food as medicine!
Therapeutic doses of Omega 3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce inflammation in numerous diseases including cardiovascular disease & gastrointestinal conditions, but also improve cognitive function, mood & behavioural disorders.
These little guys have 1.9g of omega 3 fatty acids and 3.6g of fibre in every 2 teaspoon serving. So imagine how many nutrients you're getting when you eat half a cup of chia pudding! The fibre in chia seeds is mostly soluble fibre, meaning that it helps to slow down digestion by slowing down the emptying process of the stomach, keeping you fuller for longer. This is why chia pudding is a great breakfast option.
So why do we need to soak or grind chia seeds before eating them? Good question! The reason is because the fats in chia seeds are a little harder for the body to break down and absorb. So by grinding or soaking them, we start the digestive process even before the chia seeds enter the body. (You might notice that if you don't soak or grind your seeds that they are present in your stool, as the body hasn't been able to break them down.)
On that note, let's get into the recipe!
CHOCOLATE CHIA SEED PUDDING
Ingredients:
1/2 cup of chia seeds
2 cups of almond milk
1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (not essence)
3 tablespoons of cacao powder
RASPBERRY CHIA SEED PUDDING
Ingredients:
1/2 cup of chia seeds
2 cups of almond milk
1 tablespoon of honey or maple syrup
1/2 - 1/3 cup of pureed raspberries
Method:
1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl
2. Stir until combined (sometimes using a whisk is easier than a spoon)
3. Place in a large jar or container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours
To make a layered pudding like in my picture: Once the puddings have set, simply place a few tablespoons of raspberry chia pudding in the bottom of a glass or jar, then a few tables of the chocolate chia pudding on the top. Sprinkle granola and a sliced strawberry on top.
Note: Everyone has a different preference of consistency when it comes to chia pudding. This is how I like mine, however if you prefer it thicker, add more seeds. If you prefer it thinner, add more liquid.
Toppings:
Chia pudding is so versatile you can add any toppings you wish!
Here are my suggestions:
Natural nut butter (AMAZING with the chocolate flavour!)
Mixed nuts & seeds
Shredded coconut
Banana
Berries
Grated apple
Toasted oats
Cacao nibs
Goji berries
Enjoy!