You will probably have heard of chia seeds by now because they are taking the global retail market by storm. Called the new super food, they have more nutrients that acai berries and provide so many extra nutrients so are an invaluable source to any diet but you may be wondering just how you can use chia seeds in your daily diet? It’s a lot easier to incorporate chia seeds into your everyday life than most people think because they have very little flavour of their own, although some people say, they can taste a mild nutty flavour. They make fantastic snacks and are ideal for slipping into a drawer at work just in case you get a mild ‘munchy’ attack.
But, many people are not aware of just how many options you have with chia seeds, for example, did you know that you can use a spoonful of chia seeds and mix with water and it makes a fantastic egg substitute for when baking? This is a great alternative to using eggs so perfect for any vegan bakers.
If you have made a casserole or curry and have made it a bit too watery through inadequate measurement of the fluids, then just add some chia seeds to the meal and it will help to thicken your meal plus you get a real boost of nutrients too.
If you are not that keen on seeds and grains per se, you can add chia seeds to yoghurt or to your smoothie when you are mixing it up; it produces an instant flavoured and very tasty nutrition. If you like omelettes, chia seeds can add a tempting addition, simply soak the chia seeds in the egg mixture for a few moments and then fry in oil. You can also add additional flavours and ingredients such as onions, mushrooms and a sprinkle of herbs.
Like cheesecake? Mix chia seeds with fruit juice and make a wonderful gel topping to your cheesecake, they mix well with any fruit juices, so simply choose your flavour and have a really unusual topping. If you like pancakes grind the seeds and mix with eggs, milk and flour and make a lovely pancake batter.
If you enjoy a stir-fry and want to make it a little bit different, throw in a few chia seeds and add a very mild nutty flavour to the mix, equally if you are a meat lover, you can add chia seeds to a barbecue sauce and brush over the meat for a wonderful textured flavour.
For the bread-makers amongst you, chia seeds can be added to the mixture for a wonderfully tasty, but nutritious bread but it can also be used in numerous baking recipes such as shortbread, scones and even gorgeous chocolate cookies.
If you have someone in the family who loves their mashed potatoes, make an alternative and much more nutritious version by soaking chia seeds in a little milk and then once ready, add to mashed potatoes. It’s best to use the white chia seeds so that the colours mix in well with the potatoes but it won’t affect the taste at all by using the black chia seeds.
There really are no limits to the uses for chia seeds. They are versatile, tasty, energy giving and packed full of protein and nutrients and if you have a little imagination, you can do all sorts with them. Salads, curries and casseroles can be instantly perked up or have a chia baking day and make enough goodies to last a week. The choice is yours, just remember to keep a good stock of chia seeds in and increase your daily nutrients quickly and easily.
