These amazing little seeds that go by the name of chia have been used since ancient times. It seems that the Aztec, the Incans and the Mayans used chia seeds in their diet and also as an energy boost food. Did you know that chia means “strength” in Mayan language? The health benefits of this amazing food are endless. Chia seeds are not only gluten and grain free, making it a great source of nutrients for allergic people, but one table spoon of chia seeds comes with more calcium than a whole glass of milk. Pretty cool, huh? Chia seeds are also packed with more omega-3s fatty acids than Salmon and have more antioxidants than the king and queen of antioxidants, the blueberries. Let’s look at 10 uses for chia seeds.
10. Egg Substitute
If you are on a vegan diet, the best way to substitute eggs is to eat chia seeds. You can grind 1 tablespoon of chia seeds and add it to 3 tablespoons of water; this way you get a healthy substitute for eggs to use it in baked recipes.
9. Healthy Pudding
Another one of our favorite uses for chia seeds is to make a delicious, energy booster pudding. It’s so easy to make and it’s super healthy. You need 2 cups of coconut milk or any other milk type, 1 half cup of chia seeds, 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder, vanilla and 1 tablespoon of honey. Blend the ingredients until you get a smooth paste. Put it in the fridge for about 10 minutes until it thickens. You will be amazed by the result.
8. Soup and Gravies Thickener
If you don’t want to use thickening agents (that are not always the healthiest option) or cornstarch, there are not that many options with which you can thicken your culinary creations. The good news is that chia seeds can work as a thickener too. Add a couple of chia seeds (you can powder them or not) in your soups or gravies and voila. Tastes great and it’s super healthy.
7. Grain Free Crackers
If you crave for a snack, why not make one yourself. And a very healthy one, too. Chia seeds can be used for making delicious crackers without adding any grains. You can mix them with coconut milk to thicken them, add some sea salt and garlic powder and bake them at a low temperature for a couple of hours.
6. Delicious Jellies and Jams
Being summer and all, fruits are everywhere. If you have some extra berries like strawberries, blueberries or raspberries, make them into a puree, add some chia seeds and you’ve made yourself a delicious and easy homemade jam. The kids will love it.
5. Flour Substitute
This is another great, gluten-free option and one of the best uses for chia seeds. Grounded chia seeds can be the perfect substitute for baking flour. Use it to make bread, pastry deserts or even pizza dough.
4. Super Hair Mask
If you’re looking for a natural way to hydrate your hair, look no further. Chia seeds are full of nutrients and vitamins that will make your hair shiny, hydrated and silky smooth. Add some lemon juice to chia seeds gel and apply the mixture on your hair. Leave it on for 10 minutes and then rinse. You will love the way your hair feels.
3. Natural Skin Exfoliant
One of the great uses for chia seeds is to make a natural exfoliant for your skin. The tiny seeds act as a gentle and natural exfoliants when combined with coconut oil and a little lemon juice. Wet your face with warm water and apply the chia exfoliating scrub on your skin. Leave it on your face for a couple of minutes then remove it with a wet cloth. It will give a natural glow and will calm sensitive skin.
2. Energy Gel – 10 Uses for Chia Seeds
Instead of those sugary sports drinks and commercial energy gels, you can make your own. And much more healthier. Mix chia seeds with coconut water until it thickens and you get a 100% natural energy gel. It’s beneficial for both adults and children.
1. Excellent Breading For Fish and Chicken
If you’re tired of the same old flour based breading, try this: mix chia seeds with some almond flower and garlic powder and you get an excellent breading for chicken and fish. It has a nutty, crunchy flavor and you won’t have to use any grains.
This was our top 10 uses for chia seeds. Have you tried these amazing seeds? Do you use them in any other ways? Please share.
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