When planning healthy dinner menus, its easy to gloss over breakfast. A time when the cravings for sugary, carby foods are ingrained into our culture. Today I want to boost your breakfast menu with this incredibly easy chia seed pudding.
Chia seed pudding is basically chia seeds soaked in some sort of liquid until thick and creamy. Chia seeds are tiny grey/black seeds that soak up liquid and expand. They get a gel like coating after soaking and create a thick, creamy texture. They are a good source of fiber, protein, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. A little go a long way, so a bag of seeds will last you a long time. If you just want to try them once without committing to a larger amount, get a small amount from a bulk bin and give them a try.
This chia seed pudding takes about 5 minutes to prep, but a long standing time, so plan ahead. I sweetened this with pureed mango, but its just lightly sweetened. I think its enough when you add the toppings, but if you want it to be sweeter, just add a little natural liquid sweetener (maple, honey, agave) to taste.
The dish wouldn’t be complete without the toppings, so don’t skimp. Add more as you eat, if needed. I found my toasted coconut ( Edward & Sons) at a Neighborhood Walmart in the baking section. It is divine. What ever coconut you buy, just make sure the only ingredient is “coconut”, if you are looking for the healthiest option. You could also toast your own by baking it on a sheet for a few minutes until it is golden and toasty. Make sure your mangoes are nice and ripe or this recipe wont be nearly as good.
A healthy tropical pudding thickened by chia seeds and topped with fresh fruit. No added sugar!
Ingredients
- 3/4 C. light coconut milk
- 1/4 C. chia seeds
- 1 ripe mango, pureed (I used my blender and added just a splash of water)
- Toppings: sliced banana, toasted unsweetened coconut flakes, diced mango
- natural liquid sweetener (maple, honey, agave)- OPTIONAL
Instructions
- In a medium sized tupperware or mason jar, mix together light coconut milk, chia seeds, and pureed mango. Put the lid on the container and store in the fridge for at least 1 hour, but preferably overnight. Long enough for the chia seeds to soften and develop a gel like coating.
- After the waiting period, remove from fridge. Top with sliced banana, chopped mangoes, and toasted coconut shavings. If aren’t trying to avoid added sugar, feel free to stir in some liquid sweetener to taste before you add toppings. If you are avoiding added sugar, top generously and eat as is.
Notes
This dish wouldn't be complete without the toppings, so don't skimp! I think its sweet enough on its own, but if you want it sweeter feel free to add a little drizzle of agave, honey, or maple.
Gluten free, sugar free, nut free, paleo, vegan, and vegetarian
I can't believe I have everything for this yummy treat! I hope it's ok if I use frozen mango. I'm going to anyway!
Those lovely photos make this dish look very appealing. I'm desperate for some kind of indulgent treat. Thank you!