Chia Seed Pudding

I've been hearing a whole lot about Chia pudding lately. It seems  that instagram is half filled with pictures of beautiful layered breakfasts and desserts - topped to perfection with a mix of fruits, seeds, nuts and other flavourings. 

I decided to do my own research into the benefits of Chia Seeds and found that they have - 

Twice the potassium of bananas
Three times the antioxidant power of blueberries
Three times the iron of spinach

They also hold 9-12 times their weight in water, so they are both incredibly nutrient-rich and make you feel fuller for longer after eating less food!

After learning all of this I thought it was finally time for me to try making my very own Chia Seed Pudding…

As it happens, Chia Pudding is incredibly easy to make and delicious to boot! These little gems have very quickly made their way into my daily routine; whether for breakfast, dessert or just a tasty snack.

I recommend preparing a batch of chia seeds and your chosen plant or nut based milk in a large bowl and leave to set in the fridge overnight. When you want to eat your puddings, you have it ready to top with whatever you fancy. 

All you need to do is remember the ratio of 1 cup of liquid to 3 tbsp of chia seeds. 

3 of my favourite flavour combinations are below…

Dairy + Gluten Free and Vegan

Ingredients:
(Each serves 2-3)

Indulgent Hazelnut with Banana and Cacao Nibs:

1 cup Hazelnut Milk
3 tbsp Chia Seeds
1 Banana, sliced
Hazelnut Butter
Cacao Nibs

Simple Vanilla with Coconut and Blueberries:
1 cup Almond Milk
3 tbsp Chia Seeds
Vanilla Bean Paste
Blueberries
Desiccated Coconut
Agave Syrup (optional)

Winter Fruit and Spices:
1 cup Almond Milk
3 tbsp Chia Seeds
1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
1/2 tsp Freshly Grated Nutmeg
Dried Cranberries
Dates
Maple Syrup (optional)

To Make:

• Combine the milk and seeds together in a small bowl and mix well. (You could pop them in a jar and shake to mix)
• Pop in the fridge and leave for at least 1 hour (Overnight is best).
• When you're ready to serve up, remove the mix from the fridge and mix well again. The seeds should have soaked up a lot of the liquid so it is all well incorporated, relatively thick and set.
• Now, either leave in one big bowl or divide into smaller portions and top with your own preference of fruits, nuts, seeds and other flavourings.
• It can now be placed back in the fridge and kept for a few days or eaten straight away.