Vanilla Chia Pudding

 

Think she likes it?

Littlest polished off the Vanilla Chia Pudding almost single handedly. Please forgive the manners. She doesn’t always eat this way. Sometimes she forgoes the spoon altogether.

If your eyes glazed over the word chia in the recipe title, fix your gaze on these nutritional facts for the super seed. Ancient Mayan and Aztec cultures treasured the tiny chia seed. From the Mayan word for ‘strength’, chia seeds are very nutritious, best known as a super rich source of protein. A member of the mint family, the seeds are bursting with Omega-3 and Omega-6 essential fatty acids, fiber, and B vitamins.

Chia seeds have a very mild flavor and are easy to add to your meals. Sprinkle them in salads, cereals or blend them into your favorite smoothie. If you soak them in water, the seeds plump up into a thick jello-like consistency which makes them a perfect base for Littlest’s favorite dessert.

I make this in my Vita-Mix. If you have one follow the recipe. If you do not have the super-sonic-mother-of-all-blenders, have not fear, just substitute 3 1/2 cups of your favorite kind of milk – almond, soy, rice, or dairy. Coconut milk might be really yummy too.

Next time I make Vanilla Chia Pudding I’m not even going to bother serving it to Littlest in a bowl. She can just enjoy it straight out of the dish! Speaking of dishes, isn’t that blue baking dish darling? Mrs. Kravitz surprised me with a set of spring colored bakers last week. How sweet was that? Love that Mrs. Kravitz.

Vanilla Chia Pudding

1 cup raw almonds

3 cups water

1/2 cup chia seeds

2 TBS agave nectar

2 tsp vanilla

dash of ground cinnamon

Blend the almonds and water in a Vita-Mix blender until smooth and creamy. If you do not have a Vita Mix, substitute 3 1/2 cups of your favorite milk.

Add chia seeds, agave nectar, vanilla, and cinnamon to the blender. Pulse several times, just to mix.

Pour the mixture into a baking dish and chill for at least 1 hour to thicken. Store, covered, in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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And now, the question I know you are all dying to ask. Is the super nutritious Chia Seed any relation to the infamous Chia Pet?

Yep. Only please buy your chia seeds from your local grocer or health food store. Unless, of course, you’d rather decorate with them.

Love,