Easy Chia Seed Pudding

Chia Seeds, originally from Central America, have taken the world by storm. They are considered to be a 'superfood' by many, thanks to their incredible benefits such as promoting better sleep, healthy bones and teeth, lower cholesterol, having a high protein content and more.

The many benefits, amazing for such a tiny food, are due to their high nutrient content including omega-3's, tryptophan amino acid, calcium, phosphorus, vitamin A and zinc.

What better way to reap the rewards than a delicious, healthy Chia Seed Pudding!

When I first attempted making these, I was disappointed. My food was bland and tasteless and I made WAY to much as I didn't realise how filling these things are! The secret is knowing how to flavour the pudding properly, rather than trying to get flavouring through the toppings.

Chia Seed Pudding is not crunchy like you'd imagine. In fact, the seeds use the added liquid to create a gel coating around them which results in a jelly-like texture, just like a regular pudding. It's important to use the right ratio of liquid and seeds, which changes depending on the amount of time you will leave the seeds to soak.

If you are leaving them overnight, you need more liquid than if you are eating the pudding straight away. The seeds will absorb more and more liquid overtime, which is part of the reason they're so filling! It almost feels like they expand in your stomach, leaving you full for ages.

The pudding is a great base which you can then add toppings to change the style and flavours of the food. All you need are:

• Chia Seeds

• Water and/or Milk (almond works great!)

• Cinnamon

• Vanilla Essence

• Yoghurt

• Your favourite toppings!

Personally I like to use a roughly 50/50 ratio of milk and water. Too much milk makes the pudding more rich than I like, and without it, the flavour is too watery.

The secret ingredients are the vanilla essence and the yoghurt. These mix really well with the pudding and give delicious flavour and texture. You can use different types of yoghurt to change the basis of the dish as well!

The Method

Serve immediately for one person.

1. Add roughly two tablespoons of chia seeds to a bowl and then a dash of cinnamon and vanilla essence. Stir to combine.

2. Add 1/2 a cup of liquid and stir.

3. Let the mixture stand until a jelly consistency has formed, usually around 10 minutes. Give an extra stir every few minutes to ensure a smooth consistency.

4. Place your favourite toppings on top along with a dollop of yoghurt!

In this example I used the following toppings:

• Frozen Cherries

• Shredded Coconut

• Berry Coconut Yoghurt

• Crunchy Granola

Have a go at this incredible easy recipe!!

Make it in a jar and take for lunch, mix and match your favourite toppings, and enjoy eating a yummy nutritious desert, any time of the day!