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Another health craze has hit the food sphere, and this one you will want to pay attention to for sure. Chia seeds are trending and have been creeping into everything from health drinks to crackers, but what the heck are they and why do you need to eat them?
These little seeds are native to South America and are considered one of the healthiest food on the planet. Packed with fiber, protein, and omega-3s they are a great low-calorie way to add a boost of nutrients into your favorite food. Similar to flaxseed, chia seeds have a minimal flavor which makes them a versatile additive to your diet.
Healthline.com says:
A 1 ounce (28 grams) serving of chia seeds contains:
- Fiber: 11 grams.
- Protein: 4 grams.
- Fat: 9 grams (5 of which are Omega-3s).
- Calcium: 18% of the RDA.
- Manganese: 30% of the RDA.
- Magnesium: 30% of the RDA.
- Phosphorus: 27% of the RDA.
- They also contain a decent amount of Zinc, Vitamin B3 (Niacin), Potassium, Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) and Vitamin B2.
This is particularly impressive considering it’s just a single ounce (about 2 tablespoons), which supplies only 137 calories and one gram of digestible carbohydrate!
What Do Chia Seeds Taste Like?
They have a seemingly neutral flavor and can be sprinkled over anything from yogurt, breakfast cereals, or even to add some crunch to your salad.
How to Use Chia Seeds?
You can sprinkle directly on your food and eat them in their crunchy form. When soaked in liquid, chia seeds act as a thickening agent and expand to puffy little balls similar to small tapioca. They are perfect for pudding, soups, and stews.
Where to buy Chia Seeds?
They are available in the breakfast aisle of your local grocery store, typically near the flaxseeds and granola. I recommend trying the bulk food area as well since they are often cheaper and you can buy as much or as little as you like.
I’ve jumped on the chia seed bandwagon and actually find them fun to eat. Pictured here is my chia seed pudding recipe. It is a delicious and colorful breakfast alternative that combines chia seeds, milk of your choice, honey and Greek yogurt, that you can prepare the night before. Add some honey to sweeten and top with your favorite fruit, and you have a protein and fiber-packed breakfast the will fuel your morning.
Chia Seed Pudding
Ingredients
Chia Seed Pudding
- 1/4 cup Chia Seeds
- 1 cup Milk of your choice - almond, soy, or regular
- 1 cup Greek Yogurt - 0%
- 2 Tbsp Honey
Topper
- 2 whole Strawberries - frozen if you have
- 1/4 cup Greek Yogurt
- 2 Tbsp Milk
- 4 large Strawberries - sliced vertically
- 1 small Banana - sliced
Instructions
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In a medium bowl, gently whisk the milk, yogurt, and 2 tablespoons of honey. Whisk in the chia seeds; let stand 30 minutes. Stir to distribute the seeds, cover and refrigerate overnight.
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The next day, in a blender, mix together frozen strawberries, 1/4 cup of yogurt and milk. Spoon the pudding into 2 bowls or glasses; pour in the strawberry mixture and top with sliced fruit and additional honey if desired, then serve.
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Have you ever tried chia seeds? What is your favorite way to eat them?