easy vanilla chia pudding & chocolate chia pudding

Chia seeds have been all the rage lately.

Because they are just so darn good for you… they’ve even been called 2014's  "beauty food.“

I love putting chia seeds in my green smoothies.

But, if you read any health magazines, food blogs, or pinterest boards… you have probably seen pictures and recipes for "chia pudding."  Was I missing out on this other chia seed possibility?

I figured that it was about time I hop on this chia "pudding” bandwagon and see what it is all about.  And I am glad I did!

So, today I am showing you how easy it is to hop on with me.

Chia seeds help you feel full because they absorb in water, forming a bulky gel.  So, when you soak chia seeds in almond or coconut milk, the seeds will soak it up and expand to form a pudding.

I know, I know…this may seem odd, complicated, and yes, it does look kind of funny.

But, it is SO easy.

And it tastes pretty awesome.

Just stir chia seeds into coconut milk and let it set in your refrigerator. It’s magic… it turns into scoopable pudding.

I recommend topping this with sliced bananas and chopped, roasted almonds.

This stuff is uber healthy.  Enjoy for breakfast, snack, or a light dessert.

 Vanilla Chia Pudding

makes 1 serving (from “A Beautiful Mess”)

• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• ½ cup coconut milk
• a splash (1/8 tsp.) of vanilla extract 
• ½ tablespoon honey or maple syrup (more or less, depending on how sweet you want it)

Directions

- In a small bowl or jar combine the first four ingredients. Give it a good stir and refrigerate for at least one hour.

- After the first thirty minutes give the mixture a stir. Once you’re ready to eat, stir in the honey (add more if you don’t think it’s sweet enough).

- Let set in the refrigerator for an hour or even overnight. (just give it a good stir when you take it out)

- Top with your favorite fruit or chopped nuts.

Wanting something a bit more decadent? 

Just add some cocoa powder and you have yourself a pretty sweet dessert!

Chocolate Chia Pudding,

makes 1 serving.

• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• ½ cup coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
• pinch of salt
• pinch of cinnamon
• 1 tablespoons grade a maple syrup

Directions:

- In a small bowl or jar combine the first four ingredients.

- Give it a good stir and refrigerate for at least one hour (it’s okay if the cocoa won’t dissolve all of the way). Add more maple syrup If you want it sweeter.

- After the first thirty minutes give the mixture a stir, so it doesn’t clump together.  You can let it chill overnight. You will need to stir it when you take it out to blend and smooth it all together (it will be thick and that is what you want).

- Once you’re ready to eat, stir in the maple syrup (to taste).

- Top with your favorite fruit or chopped nuts. I like sliced bananas.

Question for the day: Chocolate or Vanilla?

Try them both and decide which way you swing.  Lately…I’ve been on vanilla’s team.

But, do what you will.