There are plenty of chia seed recipes available online, but one of the easiest to make is this banana chocolate chia seed mousse.
Originally known as Raw Chocolate Pudding, this dessert has a mousse-like texture due to the chia seeds puffing up when they come in contact with liquid.
No need for any binders or whipping, simply blend the ingredients in a juicer or blender until smooth and creamy. Not only is this dessert delicious, but it's also a healthy treat that even kids will enjoy.
Here's how to make it:
Ingredients:
2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
2 ripe bananas (cut a few slices first for decoration)
1 tbsp chia seeds
180 ccs organic oat milk (1.5 tbsp milk powder mixed with water to make 180 ccs of milk)
1 tbsp sugar (add or subtract according to preference)
Shredded coconut to taste
Instructions:
1. Gather all the ingredients, put them into the juicer or blender, and mix well. Then pour the mixture into a small round cup.
2. Chill the mousse in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours (or longer for a better texture). Before serving, add banana slices and sprinkle shredded coconut on top.
Chia seeds have become increasingly popular in the health food world over the last 20 years. They were once a staple food of the Aztecs in South America a thousand years ago.
Today, chia seeds are considered a superfood because they are rich in many nutrients, and they have also considered a weight-loss food because they expand when they absorb water and are high in fiber, which slows down the conversion of starch into sugar in the gut.
Here are some of the health benefits of chia seeds:
1. Chia seeds are packed with nutrients
Chia seeds are used as a staple food because they are full of nutrients that provide energy after consumption. In addition, they contain vitamins B1, B2, and B3, making them a nutrient-dense whole-grain food.
2. Chia seeds are low in calories and high in fiber
Chia seeds contain 44g of carbohydrates per 100g, with 38g of that being dietary fiber, accounting for about 40%. This makes them a great source of fiber, as the dietary fibers contain no calories and do not cause a rise in blood sugar.
They are also used as food by good bacteria in the intestine, which can help them grow and promote gastrointestinal function.
Additionally, chia seeds can absorb up to 10 times their own volume of water and become a gel-like substance when they meet water. This can increase the feeling of fullness, reduce the desire for sweets, and slow down the rate of sugar absorption, helping to prevent overconsumption of calories.
3. Chia seeds are rich in protein
With approximately 14% protein, chia seeds have a very high protein content for a portion of plant-based food. Due to their complete ratio, the body can easily absorb this protein.
Protein is an essential nutrient for the body and can even help with weight loss. Studies have shown that adequate amounts of protein can increase satiety, reduce snack cravings by 60%, and help dieters reduce their intake of starchy foods.
4. Chia seeds are rich in plant antioxidants
Chia seeds are also rich in antioxidants, which can slow down the acidification of fat in the seeds and make them last longer. More importantly, antioxidants can fight free radicals that cause aging and disease.
Consuming natural antioxidants from food is a great way to maintain good health, and it's free from the criticisms associated with artificial health food.
