October 13, 2014

Chia Seed Chocolate Pudding

Chia seeds come from the Salvia hispanica plant, which belongs to the mint family and is native to Central America. Among the Aztecs, it was considered a dietary staple as well as a valuable currency.

Don’t let its size fool you; it packs quite a bit of nutritional punch!

Just 3 tbsp of chia seeds have the same amount of calcium(270mg) and protein(7g) as a cup of whole milk. It is high in antioxidants, with an ORAC(Oxygen radical absorbance capacity) value four times higher than blueberries. It has about eight times more Omega 3 than salmon without mercury, dioxins, PCBs, cholesterol, and saturated fat, to name a few. Other healthy sources of omega-3s include walnuts, soy products, flaxseed oil, and of course, the very source where fish get their omega-3, seaweed.

Chia seeds also have more than three times the iron in spinach, more potassium than bananas, are very high in dietary fiber, and are gluten-free. You can consume them by mixing a spoon or two into your water, juice, smoothie, cereal, oatmeal, or salad dressing. They are also great in baked goods and work really well as a replacement for eggs and oil. Here is a really easy recipe that is sure to satiate your palate and nourish your body.

Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding – Gluten-free and Vegan

1 1/4 cups unsweetened non-dairy milk

1/4 cup chia seeds

3 tablespoons raw cacao powder

10 dates or to taste

Dash of pink Himalayan sea salt

A small handful of hazelnuts (optional)

Dark chocolate shavings for garnish

Directions

Cacao powder, dates, hazelnuts & Himalayan salt in the blender.

Add all ingredients besides the chia seeds and dark chocolate to a blender. Alternatively, you can blend all the ingredients, including the chia seeds, for a smooth texture.

I used homemade hazelnut milk; you can find the recipe here.

Blend on high until it’s smooth and creamy.

My little helper mixing in the chia seeds.

Transfer this chocolaty goodness into a bowl and slowly mix in the chia seeds.

Cover and refrigerate until it’s thick like a pudding, about 4 to 8 hrs. You can also spoon it into individual serving dishes and cover them with plastic wrap before refrigerating.

Remember to garnish with dark chocolate shavings before you dig in! Here is a list of vegan chocolates. Personally, I like Earth Circle Organics the most.