cha-cha-cha-chia!
The versatility of chia pudding is just phenomenal — it can be a dessert, it can be a breakfast, it can be a snack. I could personally eat chia pudding all day long, but that could potentially lead to some major fiber overload. Moderations really is always the key. Check out my basic recipe below that can be amped up or dialed back pending the current desires :)
CHIA SEED PUDDING
✧ 2 tbsp chia seeds
✧ 1/2 c almond milk
✧ 1 tsp Manuka honey
OPTIONAL DIY ALMOND MILK
✧ 1/2 c raw almonds soaked overnight in cool water or 1 - 2 hrs in hot filtered water
✧ 2.5 c filtered water — less to thicken, more to thin
✧ 1 date
✧ 1/2 tsp vailla extract
OPTIONAL TOPPINGS
✧ Toasted coconut flakes
✧ Strawberries, blueberries, pineapple, kiwi…and basically anything else nutritious & delicious your heart craves!
NOTES
꩜ Shop organic (spices & oils included) & in season whenever possible, plus make sure to fully clean all residue off produce with baking soda prior to cooking.
꩜ I love to make my own almond milk — I think it’s less watery than store-bought and of course, there’s the benefit of not needing to check the label for preservatives. Plus, for chai seed pudding, I find the slightly thicker consistency more stabilizing.
INSTRUCTIONS
1. (If making own almond milk) Soak your almonds overnight — it will make the milk creamier and more nutritious.
2. (If making own almond milk) Blend almond milk ingredients in a NutriBullet or Vitamix.
3. Combine all chia see pudding ingredients in a mason jar, shake and chill overnight, or for at least 2 hours.
4. Enjoy! Chia pudding can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.
Some functional food for thought —
CHIA SEEDS
These tiny little seeds contain a powerful antioxidant called quercetin, which can reduce our risk of developing many health conditions, as well as support beautiful skin and graceful aging. High in fiber, chia seeds can help boost digestion, aid in weight management, fight high blood pressure and reduce our risk of developing heart disease. Chia seeds are also enriched with various nutrients like calcium, phosphorous, zinc and Vitamin A — all of which support our dental health!
PINK HIMALAYAN SALT
Since pink Himalayan salt is less processed than table salt, your body has an easier time processing it, as it doesn’t require as much water to clear out the excess sodium! It also contains more than 80 minerals and elements, including potassium, iron, calcium and (naturally occurring) iodine, aiding our body’s natural detoxification process and promoting the removal of bacteria. This can even help lower blood pressure, as iodine supports our body’s electrolyte balance, allowing our intestines to absorb more nutrients.
As with everything I make, I love to know the ingredients will fuel not only a beautiful plate, but a beautiful feeling inside. Steeped in the culture of being raised in Japanese and Italian homes, I understand the magnitude of importance food holds. I also believe in the philosophy of eating to live versus living to eat. It really is not about deprivation, it’s about remaining mindful and raising the vibration — no matter how incredible something taste’s, it’s also about how it “tastes” to our minds, bodies and souls that will keep the true “deliciousness” with us long past the moment of actual consumption. Pillars I continue to remind myself:
1. The quality of ingredients matter.
2. Less is always more.
3. Think loving thoughts while cooking and the food will taste better! #truth
4. Remain present while enjoying the intimate act of eating, it’s a game changer.
With love & gratitude, cheers to your good health!
medical disclaimer: all information is intended for general information purposes only and should not be considered as personal medical advice. individuals should always consult their healthcare provider before administering any of the suggestions made on thebalancedcalm.com to ensure they are appropriate for their specific circumstance.
