Chia seed

How to Use Chia Seeds in Cooking

Chia seeds are very versatile in cooking as they can absorb up to 12 times their weight in liquid, making them a good ally for thickening sauces, soups, or making desserts and porridges.

Some Recipe Ideas Using Chia Seeds

• - Mango and Coconut Chia Pudding: mix coconut milk, chia seeds, and maple syrup in a bowl, then let it rest in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight. Then add fresh mango pieces on top before serving;
• - Fruit Smoothie Bowl with Chia Seeds: prepare a smoothie by blending fruits (banana, berries, mango, etc.) with milk or yogurt. Pour it into a bowl, then generously sprinkle chia seeds on top, as well as other toppings like fruit pieces, nuts, or seeds;
• - Fresh Fruit Salad with Chia Seeds: mix diced fresh fruits (watermelon, melon, strawberries, kiwi, etc.) with chia seeds. Let it sit in the refrigerator for some time to allow the chia seeds to slightly hydrate and form a jelly, then serve as a refreshing dessert.
• - Blueberry and Chia Seed Muffins: incorporate chia seeds into blueberry muffin batter to add a crunchy texture and additional nutritional benefits to these morning delights;
• - Chia Seed Energy Bars: mix chia seeds with oats, dried fruits, chopped nuts, honey, and peanut butter. Press the mixture into a rectangular dish and let it harden in the refrigerator before cutting into individual bars.

The Subtle Flavor of Chia Seeds

Chia seeds have a very subtle flavor, which becomes almost nonexistent when mixed with other ingredients. They have a slight nutty smell and a sweet flavor reminiscent of nuts. When chia seeds are soaked in a liquid, such as water or milk, they develop a characteristic gelatinous texture.

Chia Seed and Botanical Origin

Chia seeds are the seeds of a plant in the Lamiaceae family (like thyme, wild thyme, or mint...) native to Mexico. Like all seeds, they have high nutritional values. Already used by the Aztecs, they were one of their main sources of plant food along with corn and beans. They are still widely consumed in Latin America and are beginning to gain recognition in Europe as a "Superfood".

Chia Seeds, a Millenary Journey

Aztec warriors consumed chia seeds to increase their endurance and strength during battles. After the Spanish conquest of America, the use of chia seeds declined, but they remained a traditional food in certain regions of Mexico. Over the past few decades, chia seeds have regained popularity due to their many health benefits, including their high fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acid content.