It's cabinetry installation day at my #foodstudio - my heart is pounding http://t.co/TiXQLYT0df
The super seed that keeps on giving!
December 6, 2010
Chia seeds
That’s right I’m talking about ch ch ch CHIA! This super seed is power-packed full of nutrients and is most definitely on my top superfoods list. I even think it is a daily must! You will not regret making chia one of your new favourite items in your diet! It is loaded with heart healthy fiber, essential fats, protein and will give you long lasting energy. If I were you, I would start your day with some Chia!
Nutritional Benefits:
As mentioned it is a soure of amazing long term energy, which overtime can actually help your body to function at it’s best and burn more calories throughout the day! Chia is also contains a high source of Omega 3 fatty acids – similar to flax. But where they differ, is that Chia actually contains a healthy dose of omega 6 – which makes it more well rounded. Be sure to get dark grayish Chia as it is nutritionally superior to the lighter kind.
Another thing to be aware of, is that Chia becomes mucilaginous when soaked; so go ahead and make a pudding, jam or smoothie out of it! The soothing gel derived from Chia helps to lubricate dryness on the skin and reduces nervousness, treats insomnia and improves mental focus. Also if you find you are a little backed up – take a dose of Chia and things will move along just fine. Chia is brilliant for relieving constipation!
How you use it:
Chia seeds can be added directly into a recipe, whether it is a soup, smoothie, salad or your morning porridge – it goes with anything. However if you want to soak it, place 2 tbsp or more in a bowl and cover with some water. Wait about 20 minutes, and it will double in size and you will have a thick gooey pudding. Delicious! You can also add the whole seeds or ground chia into baked goods, granola or trail mixes or use it as a condiment or garnish. I actually use Chia seeds to substitute an egg in my muffin and baked recipes.
FYI – 1 tbsp chia + 3 tbsp water or 1/4 cup applesauce – is equivalent to 1 egg.
Where to buy it:
You can get Chia seeds at most health food stores in your local area. There are many varieties and brands popping up all over the place. I am a big fan of Navitas Naturals Chia, they are clean, pure and fresh tasting!
They do come from South America, so if you happen to be traveling down there, be sure to get your hands on some, along with other favourites like quinoa and cacao!
How to Store it:
Chia seeds are best stored in a sealed glass jar. You can keep them in the cupboard or place them in the fridge – especially for long term storage. Ground Chia is best kept in the fridge or even the freezer. I love to just keep a small jar on my counter for everyday use, I add about 1 tbsp to my smoothie or cereal every morning!
Super Chia Breakfast
1/2 cup rolled oats, cooked or sprouted buckwheat
3/4 cup almond or hemp milk
1 tbsp Chia seeds
1 tbsp Goji berries
1/2 tsp Cinnamon
1 tbsp Raw honey
Place rolled oats or cooked buckwheat into a pot.
Top with milk, chia, goji and cinnamon.
Bring to a low simmer for 5-10 minutes.
Stir in raw honey.
Enjoy!
For a Raw Version- Place sprouted buckwheat or Raw Oats in your bowl and top with toppings! (oats can be soaked over night to make them creamy and soft.)
Top with fresh berries, banana slices, cacao or coconut flakes!
What goes in your cereal?
Comments
6 Responses to “The super seed that keeps on giving!”
Speak Your Mind
Tell us what you're thinking...
and oh, if you want a pic to show with your comment, go get a gravatar!
-
-
Now that's a SUPER #smoothie with #strawberries #banana #gojiberry #camucamu @Sunwarrior #beepollen… instagram.com/p/Zp9v55q9Pb/
Now that's a SUPER #smoothie with #strawberries #banana #gojiberry #camucamu sunwarrior #beepollen… instagram.com/p/Zp9v55q9Pb/
That’s pretty much what I make for my son for breakfast most mornings. Although yesterday he had your oatmeal pancakes with homemade apple/blueberry puree. Yum.
Yummy, that sounds good!
This is a wonderful b-fast combo! I love the warming cinnamon with the tart gojis, and of course the staying power of buckwheat & chia.
Hi Marni,
Does it matter if chia seeds are not organic? Some sources say chia is not a heavily sprayed crop because of its high antioxidant status (insects leave it alone!) whereas other sources say it is a heavily sprayed crop.
Thanks,
Marlene
Best to buy organic whereever and whenever possible!