Chia Pudding with Mango (vegan, raw, gluten-free!)

There are many nutritional benefits to the often overlooked chia seeds, which are now gaining more publicity as a "superfood".  Among these benefits Chia seeds contain Omega 3 (30%) & 6 (40%) oil, are rich in calcium, magnesium, and iron, are easily digestible, are rich in antioxidants and fiber, and are a complete protein, containing all 9 amino-acids.  Chia seeds are beneficial to diabetics because they slow down how fast the body converts carbohydrate calories into simple sugars.  They are also consumed by athletes because they increase endurance by being hydrophilic (naturally high water absorption); this in turn also helps dieters by making them feel full faster and for a more extended period of time.  For more information check out William Anderson's article "Chia Seed - The Ancient Food of the Future" and James F. Scheer's book The Magic of Chia: Revival of an Ancient Wonder Food, among many other informative sites/publications.

Chia Pudding with Mango (vegan, raw, gluten-free!)

Ingredients:
- 3/4 cup chia seeds
- 2 cups almond milk (or other non-dairy milk of choice - coconut is delicious!)
- 3-5 pitted dates (amount depends on personal preference for sweetness)
- Cinnamon and vanilla extract to taste
- Mango or other fruit of choice for topping (optional)
Yields 3-4 servings.


Directions:
1. Blend dates with a small amount of non-dairy milk in a food processor until they are fairly broken down - it takes a long time to get all the chunks out and I normally get too impatient to keep food processing them to that point... so, as long as most of the chunks are out, I am satisfied (it's also pretty tasty to get surprise chunks of date in a bite while eating!).
2. Mix all ingredients, except fruit, and let sit for approximately 30 minutes.  Stir once in a while; at first it will seem like there is too much liquid, but over time the chia seeds will absorb this.  The chia seeds will begin to look plump and gelatinous (it will look similar to tapioca pudding).
3. Serve with fresh fruit on top and enjoy!


This is just a base recipe - as long as the first two ingredients are there you can create your own endlessly delicious variations!  For instance, adding raw cacao powder is also extremely delicious (and another healthy superfood!) for all you chocolate lovers out there!!


Chia seeds are also a great addition when sprinkled in smoothies, salads, etc.  Let your imagination run wild!  I'd love to hear of new ways of consuming this wonderfully strange food - please comment if you have an interesting recipe :)