Vitamix Chia Seed Pudding

Chia seeds have become such a fad in the last 5 to 10 years or so. People assume if they consume chia seeds in abundance then they are magically going to get all of its benefits. However, chia seeds should not be consumed raw in large quantities or sprinkled on top of dishes. In fact, I would go as far as to say – NEVER eat chia seeds raw. This is because, chai seeds have the ability to increase 12 to 15 times its size when soaked in liquid.  When eaten raw, there is the potential of chia seeds swelling up in the esophagus and causing a blockage.  These seeds should not be eaten dry, allow them to swell up completely in some form of liquid  before consuming. Our bodies are better able to absorb all of the nutrients from chia seeds once it has been soaked and increased in size. When mixed in water chia seeds take on a gelatinous consistency. This is why they can be substituted for eggs and used as a thickening agent when baking and making desserts, like my recipe below. 

Chia seeds are certainly high in nutrients as per what the experts tell us, providing a good source of fiber, protein, healthy fats and micronutrient. Consuming them regularly provides numerous health benefits. I often use chia seeds in my kitchen, but I NEVER use them raw. I always make sure to soak them before consuming or adding them in my baking etc. The only other safe way to consume chia seeds without soaking is to blend them in a high powered blender such as a Vitamix until they are completely broken down. When consumed this way, it helps in increasing the absorption of their nutrients. 

Finally you should know, if you soak your chia seeds in any liquid and they don’t start swelling up in 15 minutes or so, they are spoilt. You don’t have to throw them away. Blend them up and use in your recipe or bake with them. If you are making chia pudding without a blender then you will have to start with good quality chia seeds.

 In the recipe below, I blend the chia seeds with cashew milk, because I wanted a quick dessert for my guests who were arriving in less than two hours. However, I still allowed them to thicken up while we ate supper (a total of 4 hours). If you want to follow my recipe below but dont’t want to blend all the ingredients together, as I do. Then you can mix all the ingredients really well in a bowl, give it a good stir with an egg beater and allow the chia seeds to soak overnight in the fridge. You can store either in individual containers or in one large bowl. You can top with whatever you like either before refrigerating or when eating the next day.

Sometimes I will eat this for breakfast with granola and fruit. If I am going to eat it with granola, I don’t add maple syrup or any sweetener as my home-made granola has honey in it and I find it sweet enough.