An Introduction to Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are one of the most unusual foods in the ‘superfood’ category, and a store cupboard staple for vegans, foodies and everyone with an interest in ‘free from’ food preparation.
Many people don’t understand what they are or what to do with them, but once the benefits and uses of these fantastic little wonders are revealed, they convert many gourmets and cooks to their cause!
Chia seeds are harvested from the Salvia hispanica plant, which is a member of the same botanical family as Sage. They’re oval in shape and grown mainly in South America and Australia.
What do chia seeds taste like?
These tiny black and grey seeds have a very subtle taste which has been compared to alfalfa sprouts, poppy seeds and flax/linseed. They are prized less for their taste than the amazing things you can do with them and their wonderful nutritional profile.
Why are chia seeds so popular?
Chia seeds can absorb up to 12 times their weight in liquid, and form a gel which can be used to thicken liquids or as an excellent egg substitute in baking. When soaked, the seeds’ texture changes from crunchy to something more like cooked tapioca pearls.
Chia seeds are also prized for their excellent nutrition.
What nutrition do chia seeds contain?
36% by weight of chia seeds is fibre, which is essential for a healthy digestive system. They also contain a great amount of protein and alpha linolenic acid (ALA), the plant form of omega-3, making them an invaluable ingredient for anyone following a vegan or vegetarian diet. Chia seeds are digested slowly by the body, which helps keep blood sugar levels stable, making them a superb choice for diabetics too.
Because chia seeds form a gel when liquid is added, they’re fantastic to use in smoothies, shakes and desserts, such as our wonderful Chia Choc Pudding.
You can even make a fantastic, quick fruit jam with them!
Whether you’re after the whole seeds, powdered chia or some chia-containing crispbread, pudding mixes and snack bars, here at Healthy Supplies we have a huge range of choices!