This is a special occasion chia pudding that will fit in with your health goals and is easy to make. Chia is a grain that is healthy and nutritious. They are an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, fiber, iron and calcium. The recipe includes cacao powder, the unsweetened form of chocolate which is very nutritious. Without all the nasties like sugar and fat that are added to it to make milk chocolate, it has many health benefits. It can improve your memory, reduce heart disease, increase immunity and is an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. You can find chia seeds and cacao powder in the health food section at the supermarket. I use almond milk for this recipe but you can substitute it for cows milk, soy milk or whichever milk you prefer.

vegetarian, vegan skill level: easy

Prep. time 15 mins. Resting time 4 hours Calories: 191kcal

• INGREDIENTS [PER PERSON]
• 2 tbsp chia seeds
• 1/2 cup almond milk
• 1 tbsp cacao powder
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Mix the chia seeds and milk together in a bowl
2. Add the remaining ingredients and stir well
3. Let the chia seed mixture sit for 15 minutes until it thickens. Stir again.
4. Pour into decorative glasses, e.g. parfait glasses
5. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving
6. Top with your favourite berries, cherries or fruit.

NUTRITION INFORMATION

• Calories 191kcal
• Carbohydrates 16g
• Protein 8g
• Fat 11g
• Saturated fat 3g
• Cholesterol 12mg
• Sodium 56mg
• Potassium 259mg
• Fiber 8g
• Sugar 6g
• Vitamin A 4%
• Calcium 28.9%
• Iron 10.3%

IDEAS FOR TOPPINGS:

• Cherries
• Berries
• Mango
• Pineapple
• Peaches
• Nectarines
• Apricots
• Kiwifruit
• Passionfruit
• Purees or sauces made from fruit and/or berries
• Nut butters
• Dried fruit
• Cacao nibs or a sprinkling of cacao powder
• Spices
• Shredded coconut
• Candied ginger
• Muesli or granola
• Nuts and seeds
• Creme Fraiche or whipped cream
• chocolate nibs, sauce or flakes

Images: Left – Christina Henry; Right Bottom – David Disponett, Pexels; Right Top – Pixabay, Pexels