Chia Pudding

Chia is an ancient Pre-Colombian seed that served as an essential source of energy in both Aztec and Mayan diets. Aztecs also used the seed medicinally for joint pain and skin health. Chia is now considered a superfood and is found in almost all grocery stores and natural food markets. It's high in Omega-3s - the "good" fats that promote brain health and help regulate metabolism. Chia seeds are also high in plant protein, antioxidants, magnesium, potassium and fiber.

Chia pudding is a delicious, quick and easy breakfast high in good fat and protein to help you sustain energy in the morning. Pair it with popped amaranth or granola for a nutritionally complete meal!

CHIA SEED PUDDING

Prep time: 6 min Cook time: 0min Total time: 6 min

Makes 3-4 servings

INGREDIENTS

1/3 cup chia seeds

1 cup coconut milk, unsweetened and canned

1/2 cup water

1-2 tsp ground cinnamon

1 tsp ground cardamon

1 tbsp maple syrup (optional)

1/3 cup fruit (berries, figs, mango or any other fruit in season)

1/4 cup nuts (pecans, hemp seeds, almonds, sunflower seeds, etc)

DIRECTIONS

1. In a medium bowl, add coconut milk, water, chia seeds, maple syrup and spices.

2. Stir well and let it sit for 5-7 minutes so that the seeds can expand.

3. In the meantime, chop fruit slices and nuts.

4. Once the pudding thickens, add in the fruit and nuts.

5. Eat right away or refrigerate overnight.

TIPS

You can always make this the night before for a breakfast on the go.
If you refrigerate overnight, make sure to add extra liquid to prevent the chia from turning into a thick paste. If that ever happens, no need to worry! Just add more nut milk or water and use a spoon to slowly loosen up the pudding to get it to the right consistency
For a lower calorie version, you can sub almond milk or hemp milk for the coconut milk and water.
You can also use cacao powder to make a chocolate chia pudding dessert.
If you don't have coconut milk or any nut milk, you can use almond butter blended in 1.5 cups of water to make it creamy!