Chia Seed Breakfast Pudding

When this simple seed is soaked in almond milk, it creates a tapioca-like pudding. A fantastic, healthy breakfast option - gluten free and vegan!

Oh wait... What are chia seeds you ask?

Chia seeds are the highest known plant source of Omega-3, with 8 times more Omega-3 than salmon! Unlike other sources of this O3 eg Flax or fish oil, it is in a highly stable form due to its powerful naturally occurring antioxidants, and two tablespoons contain 44% of your daily fiber needs! The plant originates from central America, it is heat loving and can grow in virtually desert - like conditions, with beautiful purpley - blue or white flowers. In 2008 Australia was the biggest exporter for chia seeds!


For general purposes of health, nutrition and energy an adult would usually consume about 1 tbsp dry seeds (or 9 tablespoons of gelled seeds) in one day. If you are using the seeds to fight hunger/stay feeling full longer you can, of course, use more. Chia is extremely safe. Only you know when you're feeling full, so let your body tell you the amount that's right for you.

And the best bit?

Nutritionally, chia is an easy way to add healthy and essentional vitamins and minerals to your daily diet with Vitamins A, B12 and C, complete protein (18 Amino Acids), minerals including potassium, phosphorous, folate, zinc, iron, and calcium as well as bowel-regulating soluble and insoluble fibre.

If you don't want to use chia in this pudding, but want the amazing benefits it has to offer, simply sprinkle these flavourless seeds in salads, muesli, oatmeal, stirfrys, smoothies, muffin or bread batter, or cereal! What a clever little seed.

Let's get started...

2 1/2 cups almond milk
3 tablespoons agave nectar
1/2 cup chia seeds
1/2 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest

In a large jar, combine the almond milk with the agave nectar. Close the jar and shake like crazy for a moment or two to combine. Add the chia seeds and lemon zest to the jar, then close and shake well. Refrigerate until very thick and pudding-like, generally this is at least 4 hours or overnight, shaking or stirring occasionally. Serve the pudding in bowls.

When serving, just add one of your favorite elements:
Citrus sections, lemon zest, diced mango, almonds, fresh berries, sliced banana, shaved coconut, saltanas and extra agave nectar.

You can purchase chia seeds at Woolworths  in the health food section one bag is $9 but will last you over 2 months!

Make this pudding on a Sunday night as it can be refrigerated for up to 3 days! Healthy and time saving!

Enjoy.

- O&O