Satisfy your sweet tooth and stay healthy at the same time with chia pudding, a treat that’s easier to make than it is to drive to the nearest bakery for a deadly dessert. Win, win!
Why Chai?
The tiny South American seeds boast even more omega-3 fatty acids (which reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol and enhance cognitive performance) than salmon.They are also rich in minerals, like calcium and magnesium, antioxidants and fiber, with 10 grams of fiber per 2 tablespoons of seeds-one-third of your recommended daily dose. To top it all off, chia seeds are also gluten-free.
Chia seeds are packed with Omega-3 and protein, so they help you get full faster and stay full longer. The tiny seeds expand in liquid to create a taste and texture similar to tapioca, which meshes well with endless variations of pudding flavors.
Check out this simple recipe first and add chia seeds to your grocery list for the next time you want a customizable sweet treat that won’t mess up your diet.
PREP: 5 MINUTES
YIELD: 2 SERVINGS
What you need
¦ 1/3 cup of chia seeds
¦ 1 ½ cups of milk (any kind of milk works; vanilla almond milk is a popular and flavor-enhancing choice)
¦ 2 tablespoons maple syrup
¦ ½ teaspoon vanilla
What you do
Combine all ingredients in a pint jar (a mason jar works perfectly). Cover the jar with a lid and give it a vigorous shake.
Chill for about an hour, then return to the jar and shake it up. Let chill for at least four hours. (Tip: the longer you let it chill, the better it will be.)
Chia seeds will expand and turn into pudding the consistency of apple sauce.
Serve cold with fruit or toasted nuts on top.
Options
Take it up a notch and try this simple dessert in a variety of flavors. Try different kinds of milk, substitute honey for syrup or even add some cocoa powder to make chocolate pudding. Get creative and mix and match-the possibilities are endless.