Healthy, nourishing, and delicious chia pudding is one of my favorite snacks. It is especially perfect when you’re on the go. Additionally, chia pudding is easily customizable so everyone has the chance to love it!
I love chia pudding so much that I don’t understand why I did not write a whole post about it earlier. I have been taking chia puddings as a quick breakfast or snack with me to work and school for at least three years now. First of all, I love the simplicity of it — it takes only a few minutes to make, plus it can be different every time.
A few mornings in a week I am packing a jar of chia pudding for my husband for a snack. He always enjoys it! Funny enough, he must have been really genuinely enjoying it that one of his clients requested the recipe from me and started making chia puddings since that time!
Check out my other quick breakfast ideas here, here, and here.
Being a student, I must mention that chia pudding is my way to go when I have early classes and need a good nutritious meal. Long-lasting energy is essential for every student who needs to sit in long lectures and pay attention to the new material. I prefer to get my energy in the morning from wholesome sources such as chia and other seeds, nuts, gluten-free grains compare to quick but unhealthy energy from sugary coffee and pastry. In my opinion, the best mental clarity comes from proper nutrition and lifestyle. There is no doubt that great fuel for a body is essential for a good mental performance. For me better concentration while studying was one of those wonderful benefits which I have experienced living a healthy lifestyle.
I feel it is necessary to take a few moments to discuss the amazing benefits of chia seeds.
one-ounce (28 grams) serving of chia seeds contains(1):
Fiber: 11 grams.
Protein: 4 grams.
Fat: 9 grams (5 of which are omega-3s).
Calcium: 18% of the RDI.
Manganese: 30% of the RDI.
Magnesium: 30% of the RDI.
Phosphorus: 27% of the RDI.
They also contain a decent amount of zinc, vitamin B3 (niacin), potassium, vitamin B1 (thiamine) and vitamin B2.
Chia seeds are not only rich in nutrients, omega-3 fat, antioxidants, and fiber but also easy to prepare. People commonly add them to their porridge or smoothies. Studies suggest that they have various health benefits, ranging from weight loss to reduced inflammation (2).
Now let’s talk about the recipe! The essentials of making chia pudding are as simple as liquid base and yes, chia seeds!
Use plant-based yogurt (my favorite is plain cashew yogurt) or non-dairy milk (my favorite is light coconut milk). Check how to make plant-based milk here.
The formula is:
1 cup of milk/yogurt
¼ cup chia seeds.
Optional additions:
1 tsp turmeric powder (yellow version) or
1 tsp cinnamon or
1 tbsp beetroot powder (pink version) or
1 tbsp organic spirulina (blue-green version)
Instructions:
In a glass jar mix together milk/ yogurt, chia seeds, and additional powder of your choice. Stir everything well and close the jar. Leave for an hour or overnight in the fridge.
Put a few tbsp of chia pudding in a bowl, top with a few circles of banana, and a few blueberries. Drizzle nut/seed butter of your choice, sprinkle some superfoods. Voila!
Much love and good vibes,
Zhenya
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