What exactly are Chia Seeds?
Salvia Hispanica, or chia as it is commonly known, belongs to the mint family of plants. With its distinct oblong shaped leaves, small blue flowers grow on the plant. The seeds from the plant are known to have a host of health benefits, including providing most of the nutrients required by the human body on a daily basis.
The first recorded instance of people consuming chia seeds is from way back in 3,500 BC. The Aztecs and Mayans both ate the seeds for many centuries. They used to either grind the seeds down into flour or squeeze them to extract oil. It was also the Aztecs and Mayans who discovered that chia seeds mixed with water form a potent blend. This gave birth to the chia gel which is commonly used for culinary and other purposes till today.
A significant feature of chia seeds is that they boost the energy and stamina of the person eating them. This was the reason why chia seeds were carried into battle by Aztec warriors. Not only did their stamina improve but they were able to fight over longer periods of time without feeling fatigued.
What are some of the health benefits of Chia Seeds?
- High in Fiber
- Rich in Omega 3 fatty acids (the good fat)
- Rich in antioxidants
- Gluten Free
- Helps regulate your blood sugar levels
- Rich in calcium, manganese, and phosphorous.
- High in protein
What are some uses of Chia seeds in food?
Chia seeds can be used in:
- Toppings
- Beverages
- Puddings
- Your own food experiments!
Is it difficult to cook with Chia Seeds?
Absolutely not! We show you step by step how to make healthy and delicious recipes including:
- Buckwheat Chia Porridge with Spiced Apple
- Hearty Chia Breakfast Eggs
- Sweet Blueberry Chia Brownies
- Chia Creamed Brown Rice
- Chia Miso Super Soup
- Chili Chia Fish Cakes
- Chia Omelet with Asparagus
- Whole Wheat Chia Seed Pancakes
- Italian Chia Meatballs
- Orange Mango Cream Smoothie
- Chia Pan Bread
- Savory Chia Seeds
- Chia Almond Butter
- Chia Fresca
- Chia Fruity Green Tea
- Chia Traditional Oatmeal Cookies
- Quinoa, Chia & Coconut Flapjacks
- Chia Banana Pikelets
- Chia Granola
- Turkey Chia Meatloaf
- Chicken Chia Stuffed Surprise
- Chia Coffee Cream Dessert
- Chocolate Chia Seed Pudding
- Strawberry Babycakes
- Fig Squares
- Creamy Chia Mushroom Soup
- Curried Potato Salad
- Fennel Chia Seed Crackers with Arugula Pesto
- Instant Chia Vegetable Broth
- Berry Beautiful Chia Bowl
