One of the most common questions I get asked is "What are your favorite snacks?". Honestly, this is one of my favorite questions because I love snacks and I love talking about food. Best of both worlds.
Chia seed pudding is a great snack option and I keep it on regular rotation in our house not just for snacks, but also for breakfast and dessert too. It's versatile because of all of the different toppings you can add, making it easy to not get bored with it.
Chia seeds are a gelatinous seed, you can find black or white varieties. Both have the same taste and texture, they just look different. When chia seeds are mixed into a liquid they plump, absorbing the liquid. If you've never had chia seed pudding it reminds me of the texture of tapioca pudding. If that's not your favorite texture you can also blend it in a high-powered blender to make it into a smooth consistency. Chia seeds are a great source of fiber, healthy fats, and have a nice protein boost too. Be mindful of how much you are consuming as they can cause some bloating and digestive distress if you aren't used to eating a lot of fiber. In other words, I wouldn't eat it for every meal of the day.
One of my family's favorite ways to eat chia seed pudding is Banana Chia Seed Pudding. We top it with sliced bananas, nut-ola, cacao nibs, and sometimes a drizzle of almond butter. I hope you love it!
Banana Chia Seed Pudding
Serves 4
Ingredients:
1 C. Coconut Milk (from a can)
1 C. Water
1/2 C. Chia Seeds
1/2 tsp. Vanilla Extract
2T Pure Maple Syrup (optional)
1 Scoop Collagen or Protein Powder
1 Banana, ripe
Directions:
1. In a blender place coconut milk, water, vanilla, maple syrup, collagen, and banana. Blend.
2. Pour into a bowl and whisk in chia seeds.
3. Cover and place in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to thicken.
4. Stir before serving to break up any clumps.
5. Top with desired toppings and enjoy!
*Tip: After this thickens I divide it out into serving sizes, making for a quick grab and go snack option. Don't like banana? You can leave it out for a vanilla chia seed pudding option!