How to make chia seed pudding!

In the superfoods category, chia seed is one that you regularly hear. Yet chances are that you have never started it either. After all, it's quite an exotic seed, and to say it looks tasty… Still, it can be really worthwhile to give chia seed a try.
In the superfood category, chia seed is one that you regularly hear. Yet chances are that you have never started it either. After all, it is quite an exotic seed, and to say it looks tasty… Still, it can be really worthwhile to give chia seed a try.

We will explain exactly why it is so healthy below. And because you are of course not going to eat a dry spoonful of seeds, you also get a few recipes. For chia seed pudding, that is: the best way to process the jelly properties of these seeds!

What is chia seed?

Until a few years ago, no one in the Netherlands had ever heard of chia seed. That is not very strange, because the seeds are originally from South America. They have been used there for centuries: research shows that Aztecs and Mayans already ate them. In fact, there are the most insane legends about chia seeds.
Until a few years ago, no one in the Netherlands had ever heard of chia seed. That is not very strange, because the seeds are originally from South America. They have been used there for centuries: research shows that Aztecs and Maya already ate them. In fact, there are the most insane legends about chia seeds.

For example, the Aztec warriors could fight for 24 hours with one spoonful of seeds on their stomach. Although such reports are of course not completely reliable, it does indicate that chia seed was seen as a real panacea. Even today, it is still mainly imported from South America.

Chia seed is not necessarily a slim product. It contains about 443 calories per 100 grams. This is mainly due to the fat percentage, which, as with all seeds, is quite high. Every 100 grams contains 31 grams of fats, mostly unsaturated.

In addition, the chia seeds contain 16.5 grams of proteins per 100 grams. Finally, there are about 8 grams of carbohydrates, plus a good amount of fiber. Also when it comes to micronutrients, chia seed is certainly not bad off. It contains quite a lot of vitamins B1, B2 and C. In terms of minerals, it is, for example, rich in calcium, iron and potassium.

For a seed, chia seed is exceptionally rich in fiber. Every 100 grams of seed contains no less than 34 grams of fiber! For that reason, it clearly makes a significant contribution to your total daily fiber consumption. That has a number of significant advantages. For example, fiber keeps your intestines healthy. By absorbing water, they also ensure that your stool remains flexible.
For a seed, chia seed is exceptionally rich in fiber. Every 100 grams of seed contains no less than 34 grams of fiber! For that reason it clearly makes a significant contribution to your total daily fiber consumption. That has a number of significant advantages. For example, fiber keeps your intestines healthy. By absorbing water, they also ensure that your stool remains flexible.

Another advantage is that you feel more saturated with fiber. In the case of chia seed, this is even more the case. When you soak them, a gelatinous substance is created, a bit like regular pudding. A bowl of chia seed pudding will undoubtedly keep you filled for a long time!
Another advantage is that you feel saturated faster with fiber. In the case of chia seed, this is even more the case. When you soak them, a gelatinous substance is created, a bit like regular pudding. A bowl of chia seed pudding will undoubtedly keep you filled for a long time!

Another big advantage is that chia seed contains quite a lot of omega 3 fatty acids. Many people get too little of it compared to omega 6 fats. Especially for vegetarians who do not eat oily fish, chia seed can really be a solution. The omega 3 fats keep your heart and blood vessels healthy for longer and lower your cholesterol. This also indirectly reduces the risk of diabetes.

An extra plus is that chia seed also contains many antioxidants. These counteract the damage done by free radicals in your body. That means less chronic inflammation, and again fewer heart and blood problems.

Chia seed is therefore a fantastic addition to your diet. Nevertheless, we must add very clearly that it is not wise to eat too much of it. This is especially true if your digestive system is not quite used to it yet. The large amount of fiber can then cause unpleasant side effects. Think of flatulence, stomach pain or even diarrhea in the beginning.

In short: start with little bits. If that doesn't bother you, you can always eat more. Everything in moderation, as usual!

Making your own pudding from chia seed is very easy. It works about the same as with overnight oats, for example! You simply put the chia seeds in the fridge with a good amount of liquid. The next morning the seeds have absorbed everything. Of course it is not particularly tasty to eat bare seeds with water. So we give you a few quick and delicious options below!
Making your own pudding from chia seed is very easy. It works about the same as with overnight oats for example! You simply put the chia seeds in the fridge with a good amount of liquid. The next morning the seeds have absorbed everything. Of course it is not particularly good to eat bare seeds with water. So we give you a few quick and delicious options below!

Mix 2 tbsp chia seed with 100 g almond milk. Add a little honey or a pinch of cinnamon if you like. Put in the fridge overnight. Serve the pudding the next morning with, for example, forest fruits, grated coconut, or almond flakes. (Or all at once, of course!)

Mix 2 tbsp chia seed with 150 g coconut milk (or another vegetable milk). Place in a blender with 100 g of red fruit and grind. Add honey to taste and refrigerate. For example, serve the next morning with more red fruit and cocoa nibs.

Mix 2 tbsp chia seed with 150 g coconut milk (or another vegetable milk). Add 1–1.5 tbsp cocoa along with a good pinch of honey. You can also add anise or cinnamon, for example. Put in the fridge to stiffen. Serve with grated chocolate, hazelnuts or coconut chips.