BERRY DELICIOUS CHIA PUDDING
Who knew that the seeds of those fluffy grass aminals would be the next superfood?
As it turns out, we are super late to the game when it comes to Ch-Ch-Ch-Chia. Chia seeds have been a staple in Mayan and Aztec diets for centuries! Today, they draw the interest of many people for their health benefits and uses in cooking. It turns out chia seeds are a rich source of nutrients, fiber and antioxidants, and they create an awesome gel-like texture that is perfect for making a pudding-style dessert, woo hoo! Nutritionally speaking, we covet them because they are super-rich in polyunsaturated fats, especially omega-3 fatty acids. The omega-3s in chia seeds can help reduce inflammation, enhance cognitive performance and reduce high cholesterol. How can we not love these little beauties? Here is one of my favorite recipes for Chia Pudding, which incorporates fresh pureed summer berries. (You can also use frozen berries, just thaw them out, drain them, and blend per the recipe below). This makes about 3 pint-size jars full, so double it up if you need to!
1 1/2 Cups fresh berries (your favorite variety...I'm a blueberry gal, por ejemplo.)
1 Cup water
1 Cup hemp milk
2 pitted dates
1/4 c. chia seeds
1/4 t. vanilla extract
1/2 c. raw macadamia nuts (optional for garnish)
1. Start blending the berries with 1/4 c. of water on high until you have a thick sauce. Add more water as needed by the tablespoon to get the blender going. Pour the berry sauce evenly into 2 glasses or bowls. Set in the fridge.
2. Blend the hemp milk and two dates until smooth. Pour sweetened hemp milk into a small mixing bowl. Stir the hemp milk, chia seeds, and vanilla until it becomes a thick pudding. Stir constantly for 3-4 minutes then let stand for about 5 minutes to thicken. (You could also leave out the dates, if you prefer a less-sweet version of the pudding!)
3. Pour the chia mixture on top of the berry sauce in even portions. Allow to set for at least 4 hours in the fridge or overnight. You can make a double batch and have snacks on hand for 4 days. Be sure to cover if you are storing over 1 day, it lasts 4 days in the fridge, covered.
*Serve with chopped nuts, toasted coconut, granola, etc. (optional)
