Chia pudding with yogurt is one of my favorite breakfasts or snacks. It’s so easy to make, super creamy and delicious, and packed with nutrition. You can customize it with different flavors and toppings, and enjoy it any time of the day. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly and gluten-free!
What are chia seeds and why are they good for you?
Chia seeds are tiny seeds that come from a plant in the mint family, native to Mexico and Guatemala. They have been used for centuries by the Aztecs and Mayans as a source of energy and health.
Chia seeds are rich in protein, fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and minerals. They have many benefits for your heart, brain, joints, skin, and digestion. They also help regulate your blood sugar levels and keep you feeling full for longer.
How do chia seeds turn into pudding?
Chia seeds have a special property: they can absorb up to 10 times their weight in liquid. When you soak them in milk, water, or juice, they swell up and form a gel-like texture. This is what makes chia pudding so thick and creamy.
You don’t need to cook chia pudding at all. All you need is a bowl or a jar, some chia seeds, some milk of your choice (I like to use almond milk or coconut milk), some sweetener (I use honey or maple syrup), some vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. You can also add some yogurt (I use Greek yogurt or vegan yogurt) for extra creaminess and protein.
You just mix everything together and let it sit in the fridge for at least an hour, or overnight for best results. The chia seeds will do their magic and create a pudding-like consistency that you can spoon out and enjoy.
How to flavor your chia pudding
The best part about chia pudding is that you can make it different every time by adding different flavors and toppings. Here are some of my favorite variations:
- Golden Glow: Add some turmeric powder, fresh or frozen mango chunks, and chopped dates to your chia pudding base. Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory spice that gives your pudding a beautiful golden color and a warm flavor. Mango and dates add natural sweetness and tropical vibes.
- Mexican Cacao Dream: Add some cocoa powder, a pinch of ancho chili powder, and some cinnamon to your chia pudding base. Cocoa is rich in antioxidants and gives your pudding a chocolatey taste. Ancho chili adds a subtle heat and smokiness that complements the chocolate well. Cinnamon adds warmth and sweetness.
- Berry Happy: Add some cardamom powder and fresh or frozen berries to your chia pudding base. Cardamom is a fragrant spice that adds a floral note to your pudding. Berries are loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants, and give your pudding a burst of color and flavor.
I hope you try this chia pudding recipe and love it as much as I do. It’s a great way to start your day with a healthy and satisfying breakfast, or to treat yourself to a yummy snack anytime. Let me know what flavors you come up with!
