Remember this little guy? I definitely had one of these chia pets growing on my counter every year (kind of a family tradition). I remember putting the seeds in water, waiting for them to turn into a gel, then slathering on the terra cotta "shell". Fast forward 10 years - and people are saying you can eat the seeds? Mind. Blown.
Before I move on, can I just show you some hilarious pictures of chia pets that exist now? Because they made me giggle inside...
Before I move on, can I just show you some hilarious pictures of chia pets that exist now? Because they made me giggle inside...
and this one's not real... but it made me laugh :)
Now, I wouldn't recommend eating chia seeds from the planter - you have to get food-grade chia seeds (found at nutritional supplement stores).
Chia seeds are high in :
omega-3 fatty acids (good for your cholesterol)
fiber (keeps you fuller longer)
antioxidants (help prevent cancer)
Calcium (strong bones)
Protein (strong muscles - I like those :)
They are also gluten-free and don't have to be ground (like flax seed) in order to enjoy their health benefits! You can toss them in smoothies, cereal, baked goods etc. I'm still experimenting with them but haven't had a bad experience yet! I discovered this extremely easy and tasty recipe and i'll definitely be making it again.
Chia seeds are high in :
omega-3 fatty acids (good for your cholesterol)
fiber (keeps you fuller longer)
antioxidants (help prevent cancer)
Calcium (strong bones)
Protein (strong muscles - I like those :)
They are also gluten-free and don't have to be ground (like flax seed) in order to enjoy their health benefits! You can toss them in smoothies, cereal, baked goods etc. I'm still experimenting with them but haven't had a bad experience yet! I discovered this extremely easy and tasty recipe and i'll definitely be making it again.
Banana Chia Pudding Recipe
Ingredients:
1 banana
1/4 C chia seed
1 1/2 C Soy Milk (you can use almond or regular milk here too0
1 tsp vanilla
1 packet truvia
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 C sliced almonds
Mash the banana in a bowl then add all other ingredients and mix. Refrigerate until set (usually about 2+ hours). You're done.
1 banana
1/4 C chia seed
1 1/2 C Soy Milk (you can use almond or regular milk here too0
1 tsp vanilla
1 packet truvia
1 tsp cinnamon
1/4 C sliced almonds
Mash the banana in a bowl then add all other ingredients and mix. Refrigerate until set (usually about 2+ hours). You're done.
Was that not the easiest recipe ever? You're welcome. It doesn't look very pretty- I'll admit that. In fact, it looks kind of ugly. But just close your eyes and the texture and taste is similar to that of tapioca pudding - but without all the added sugar. Plus, if you made it how I did it's vegan! I'm looking forward to experimenting with other flavors - I'm thinking a pumpkin chia pudding and chocolate chia pudding are in my future...