Easy Chia Seed Pudding Recipe

They are no longer just the gag gift you bring to the office to stimulate water cooler talk. Chia seeds are now piled high on health food shelves, and consumers love them. Why? Well, chia seeds are mightily versatile and nutritious.

Chia seeds add a terrific crunch to your post-workout smoothie. They are fun to slurp down in a bubbly kombucha. And they are lovely in pudding.

Chia means “strength” among Mayans. They were known as the “Indian Running Food” because of their reliable sustenance while running long distances or during battle.

These baby seeds offer more than just fun texture.

Here are some of the highlights regarding why you would benefit from eating more chia.

1. 1. The fiber benefits your digestion.
   2. The fiber helps keep you full for longer.
   3. They are very high in omega-3’s, which is important if you consume a lot of soy, corn, canola, or sunflower oils.
   4. There is some evidence that they help stabilize blood sugar, which is important for weight loss and for diabetics.
   5. They are high in antioxidants – you know, those plant chemicals that help protect you from cellular aging.

#ChiaSeeds are beloved, healthy little seeds and this easy #pudding is sure to delight the taste buds! http://t.co/JSi3lQm9gT

— Frances Arnold (@FrancesLArnold) January 18, 2014

Easy Chia Seed Pudding Recipe:

• 1/2 cup chia seeds
• 2.5 cups almond milk or coconut milk
• 3 tbsp organic sugar (avoid beet sugar – it is genetically engineered)
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl and mix well with a large spoon until all ingredients are combined.
   1. Note: if you want SMOOTH pudding, blend these ingredients well FIRST.
2. Cover and place in refrigerator for 4 hours minimum
3. Top with fresh berries or lemon zest
4. Give thanks to the truckers who helped deliver food to your grocer. =-)

Serves 6 and keeps in the refrigerator for 3 days.