Eat-Clean Recipe :: Banana Chia Pudding

Have you ever craved for dessert so bad that you just gotta satisfy it no matter rain or shine? But at the back of your mind, you thought of how guilty it would be?

Well ahoy there, welcome aboard, because we are on the same boat!

Did I mention that I have a sweet-tooth, and could totally diss dinner for some deliciously sweet dessert? It's always been a tough one for me. In the past, way before I started out on this journey, I would shamefully have my dessert after my somewhat heavy dinner. And in Singapore, you can find dessert anywhere, everywhere, and talk about cost, just with a dollar, you could easily get your hands on those street ice-cream. You can say, I am guilty as charged for being a dessert monster!

So I am going to spill my secret today to those people who are onboard with me. 

Let's talk about ch-ch-ch-chia seeds for a minute. 

In case you’re not familiar with the trendy superfood, these unprocessed seeds, which come from a desert plant grown in Mexico, have been around for thousands of years and were a staple in the diet of the ancient Mayans and Aztecs. Aztec soldiers used to crush chia on the reg to boost energy, and the seeds were thought to have magical powers based on their ability to increase stamina over long periods of time.


It is considered a “superfood” because of the maximum amount of nutrients with minimal calories. The seeds are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fabulous antioxidants that protect your body against free radicals, prevent cancer, and fight aging. Chia also contains significantly more protein than other whole grains, and it has a ridiculously high fiber content. Two tablespoons of chia seeds contain 11 grams of fiber (40% of your daily value!), which will keep you feeling full and satisfied while improving digestion and regulating blood sugar. Oh yes!

Most importantly, chia seeds are the best plant-based source of omega-3 fatty acids on the planet. Omega-3s are glorious, and because they are not made in our bodies, we need to get them from our diet. These fatty acids help build new cells, reduce inflammation, regulate physiological functions, and prevent heart disease and diabetes. They also reduce depression levels (be happier!), improve cognitive function (be smarter!), and promote healthy skin, hair and nails (be prettier!). What's up, plant-based peeps! 

Another thing for Asians, I am pretty sure you are familiar with Basil Seeds, the one you easily found in the local dessert, yes those black, weird-looking seeds. To clear the air, both have similar characteristics, however, Basil Seeds is bigger as compared, and black in color, found mainly in the Mediterranean and Asia. Now, before I hear people saying how expensive chia seeds can be, you could totally use Basil Seeds instead. Well, obviously it would be great if you could get your hands on Chia Seeds, but Basil Seeds are good for those who are looking for a cheaper alternative.

Alright, enough of me talking, ready for the recipe? 

Aye aye Captain!

Recipe

Ingredients

Basic:

2 cups Unsweetened Soy Milk/ Almond Milk (any preferred milk)

6 tbsp Chia Seeds/ Basil Seeds

1 tsp pure Vanilla extract

Sweetener to taste

Optional Combo:

- Mashed Ripe Banana with Cinnamon 

- Matcha powder with Berries

- Cocoa Powder with Sliced Banana

- Strawberry with Soy Yogurt (greek yogurt for non-vegan)

Directions

In a big bowl, combine all the ingredients and give it a good stir. Transfer to a jar or a sealed container and allow to chill for at least an hour or, best, overnight. 

Note: It takes practice to get the texture "just right", so you can always feel free to adjust the amount of chia seeds used or the milk to achieve the desired texture (thick or thin pudding).

My favorite combo is to mash a very ripe banana (super sweet!) and mix it with the chia pudding, what can I say, purrffecctttt combo! There are simply way too many combos that I can think of but have yet to give it a try, hopefully I can show you some of my unique combos soon. As of now, enjoy this smooth and crunchy pudding as a dessert, or even breakfast. This is perfect to have it on-the-go as well, so now you have no excuse to skip your breakfast! 

I hope you have a clearer understandings regarding these super seeds, and oh don't forget to share with me your favorite combo below..

As always, 

eat clean, and stay fit!