Chia: (chi-a) and not (CHAAI!) The latest superfood to actually make it to the mainstream retailers shelves, and thats saying something! It means Chia has managed to step out of the small superfood niche and into most households.
Chia is an incredibly nutritious seed and is probably going to make its way into most of my recipes! This tiny seed certainly packs a punch. And even better, it is usually organic and sustainable!
A 4tbsp serving (as per this recipe) of chia seeds contains:
- Protein: 8 grams – a complete protein (all 9 essential amino acids present)
- Fat: 14 grams – loaded with Omega 3’s (ALA), and claims the no 1 spot of all plant based Omegas!
- Fiber: 16 grams – this is more that 4x fibre found in 1 cup of oats
It is also the host of many different trace minerals and micronutrients.
- Calcium equal to 1 cup of milk
- As much potassium as found in a banana
- More than twice the fibre of a cup of oatmeal
- 4x the iron and magnesium of a cup of spinach
- Its antioxidant properties make it equal to most of the red fruits.
Chia was discovered by the Aztecs and Mayans somewhere around 3500 BC, making them one of the oldest sources of nutrition.
CHIA PUDDING RECIPE:
I call this a pudding, but feel free to eat for breakfast, snack or after dinner treat.
Serves 2
Prep time: 5 min
Vegan, Gluten Free, Sugar Free
Ingredients:
4 tbsp Chia Seeds
1 cup coconut milk (depending on the thickness of the milk you use, you may need a little more or a little less)
A few drops Vanilla Extract
Cinnamon (to taste)
Pomegranate Seeds
Roasted Shaved Coconut
Seed & Amaranth Bar Granola See recipe here: https://www.seed-blog.com/seeds-amaranth-powerpacked-goodness/
Method
Stir Chia, vanilla and cinnamon into the Coconut Milk and place in the refrigerator for 20min.
When ready to eat, add coconut shavings (raw or roasted), granola and frsh pomegranate seeds.
When I first tried to de-pip a pomegranate, I was so frustrated; and covered with red pomegranate juice! So, just a quick tip for all pomegranate newbies – cut the pomegranate into segments and de-pip by hand in a bowl of water. The pith will float and the seeds will sink. Pour the pith and water out and you will be left with the seeds.
Happy eating!