Coconut Matcha Chia Seed Pudding
Who said healthy can't be delicious? Our tropical twist on a classic wellness recipe, this Coconut Matcha Chia Seed Pudding is a satisfying sweet treat that will leave you wanting more. This flavorful and nutritious pudding is an excellent way to kickstart your day or end your evening on a sweet note.
The Magic of Chia Seeds and Matcha
Chia seeds, once used by the Mayans for strength, live up to their historical reputation as a "superfood". They're packed with antioxidants, fiber, protein, and heart-healthy fats. Pair that with matcha, a type of powdered green tea, packed with antioxidants and known for its metabolism-boosting properties, and you have a powerhouse treat that not only sounds exotic but tastes great and spoils the body.
The Health Benefits of Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are high in soluble fiber, which slows down the absorption of sugar molecules from our food, and helps to prevent spikes in blood sugar. Stable blood sugar levels are crucial for maintaining balanced hormone levels, as drastic fluctuations can disrupt hormone balance, leading to issues such as insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome.
In addition to their high fiber content, chia seeds are also rich in alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that the body can't produce on its own. They have been shown to improve hormonal balance, most notably in regulating mood and fighting inflammation.
Moreover, chia seeds are packed with several nutrients necessary for bone health, including calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Hormones play a major role in maintaining bone health. For instance, estrogen in women helps keep calcium in the bones. As estrogen levels drop during menopause, adding calcium-rich foods like chia seeds to your diet can help maintain bone health.
In summary, including chia seeds in your diet can support healthy hormones due to their high fiber content, omega-3 fatty acid levels, and vital nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. With these benefits, chia seeds can contribute to maintaining a balanced hormone profile and overall wellness.
Coconut Matcha Chia Seed Pudding Recipe
Serves 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Passive Time: 2 hours (up to overnight)
Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup chia seeds
- 1 1/2 cups coconut milk
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 2 Tbsp maple syrup
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp matcha powder
- Toppings: fresh berries, sliced kiwi, orange slices, chopped mango, dragonfruit, coconut flakes, sliced almonds
Directions:
- In a bowl, stir together chia seeds, coconut milk, almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and matcha powder until well combined.
- Refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours or up to overnight to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and achieve a pudding-like consistency.
- When you’re ready to serve, give the pudding a good stir and dish it out onto bowls.
- Add your favorite toppings. You can opt for fresh berries for a juicy burst, kiwi for a tangy kick, oranges for a citrusy punch, mango for tropical sweetness, or dragonfruit for a mild sweet taste. Sprinkle some coconut flakes and sliced almonds for added texture and taste.
This Coconut Matcha Chia Seed Pudding is versatile and easy to whip up, making it perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even a midday snack. Its unique pairing of flavors adds an unexpected twist to your regular chia pudding, making it not just a feast for your taste buds but also a delight to the eye.
Enjoy this creamy, refreshing, and nourishing treat that is sure to impress! Cheers!
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