Chia (Salvia hispanica) is a black tiny seed originated in Mexico. It was a staple food and curative ingredient for the Aztecs and Mayas. Chia was known as an optimal food for endurance. The word Chia comes from the Mayan chiabaan, meaning strengthening. In fact, it is believed that Aztec warriors would survive on 1tablespoon of chia seed a day as their only food during hostile times.
Because of religious reasons, the Spaniards forbidden the utilization and cultivation of the Chia. Since then, consumption remained only in some regions of Mexico and Central America.
But when the Omega-3 fatty acids healthy benefits boomed in the late 90's, chia became popular again!
Chia's rich content of Omega-3 and its adequate omega-3:omega-6 ratio makes this seed a highly nutritious food. In addition, chia is rich in dietary fiber, protein, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
Because of it's unique antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, chia consumption may decrease the risk of diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer's, depression and chronic inflammation.
So, what about adding chia daily to your favorite foods! It has basically no flavor and it can add a lot of texture. Try it with yoghurt, oatmeal, apple sauce, salad dressings, fruit smoothies, soups, stir-frys, or anything you like! Following are some recipes:
Coconut Chia Water
(4 servings)
This beverage is the best endurance drink you can have! It provides lots of energy and electrolytes. So forget the colored commercial sports drinks packed with artificial colorants and additives.
Ingredients
4 cups natural coconut water (You can buy it at any grocery store)
4 Tbsp Chia seeds
4 Tsp brown sugar
Instructions
Mix all the ingredients together. Let sit for 15 minutes. Whisk to break any clumps of seeds. Refrigerate and drink in the following 24 hours. Shake each time before drinking.
Almond, chocolate chips and Chia Pudding
(4 servings)
This is a delicious and nutritious dairy free dessert.
Ingredients
2 C almond milk
1/3 C chia seeds
2 Tsp brown sugar
2 Tbsp silvered toasted almonds
2 Tbsp semi-sweet mini chocolate chips
1/2 Tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
In a bowl, stir all the ingredients together except the almonds and chocolate chips. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. When ready to serve, stir well. Spoon into bowls and top with the almonds and chocolate chips. (You can also top it with fruits)
Cilantro and Chia dressing
(12 servings)
Chia can be used not only in sweet recipes but in any recipe! This dressing will make any salad delicious and with a unique nutritional value.
Ingredients
1 C Cilantro leafs
1/4 C olive oil
1/4 C wine vinegar
Juice of 2 limes
1 egg boiled for 3 minutes
2 garlic cloves
2 Tbsp Chia
Salt to taste
Instructions
In a blender, mix well the cilantro, olive oil, vinegar, lime, egg and garlic. Pour the mixture in a glass jar with lid. Add the chia and salt to taste. Close the jar and shake well. Refrigerate for 4 hours. Add the dressing to your favorite salad.
Because of religious reasons, the Spaniards forbidden the utilization and cultivation of the Chia. Since then, consumption remained only in some regions of Mexico and Central America.
But when the Omega-3 fatty acids healthy benefits boomed in the late 90's, chia became popular again!
Chia's rich content of Omega-3 and its adequate omega-3:omega-6 ratio makes this seed a highly nutritious food. In addition, chia is rich in dietary fiber, protein, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
Because of it's unique antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, chia consumption may decrease the risk of diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer's, depression and chronic inflammation.
So, what about adding chia daily to your favorite foods! It has basically no flavor and it can add a lot of texture. Try it with yoghurt, oatmeal, apple sauce, salad dressings, fruit smoothies, soups, stir-frys, or anything you like! Following are some recipes:
Coconut Chia Water
(4 servings)
This beverage is the best endurance drink you can have! It provides lots of energy and electrolytes. So forget the colored commercial sports drinks packed with artificial colorants and additives.
Ingredients
4 cups natural coconut water (You can buy it at any grocery store)
4 Tbsp Chia seeds
4 Tsp brown sugar
Instructions
Mix all the ingredients together. Let sit for 15 minutes. Whisk to break any clumps of seeds. Refrigerate and drink in the following 24 hours. Shake each time before drinking.
Almond, chocolate chips and Chia Pudding
(4 servings)
This is a delicious and nutritious dairy free dessert.
Ingredients
2 C almond milk
1/3 C chia seeds
2 Tsp brown sugar
2 Tbsp silvered toasted almonds
2 Tbsp semi-sweet mini chocolate chips
1/2 Tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
In a bowl, stir all the ingredients together except the almonds and chocolate chips. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. When ready to serve, stir well. Spoon into bowls and top with the almonds and chocolate chips. (You can also top it with fruits)
Cilantro and Chia dressing
(12 servings)
Chia can be used not only in sweet recipes but in any recipe! This dressing will make any salad delicious and with a unique nutritional value.
Ingredients
1 C Cilantro leafs
1/4 C olive oil
1/4 C wine vinegar
Juice of 2 limes
1 egg boiled for 3 minutes
2 garlic cloves
2 Tbsp Chia
Salt to taste
Instructions
In a blender, mix well the cilantro, olive oil, vinegar, lime, egg and garlic. Pour the mixture in a glass jar with lid. Add the chia and salt to taste. Close the jar and shake well. Refrigerate for 4 hours. Add the dressing to your favorite salad.