Banana Chia Seed Pudding

Chia seeds are all the rage these days. A lot of you may remember them from the old-school Ch-ch-ch-chia pet commercials, but now they are making their way into many kitchens across the country not as plant heads & pets, but as a high-nutrient ingredient that is keeping people healthy & providing energy. They are the highest source of Omega 3’s on the planet and they also contain protein, fiber and so many other great nutrients. They help to lower cholesterol and have heart-healthy antioxidants. I love to bake with them as they can be used as an egg substitute in a lot of recipes, they have the same binding properties. You can also throw them in smoothies for a little extra nutrient kick!

This recipe is simple to make and has only 6 ingredients and all you need is a high-powered blender, such as a Vita Mix or Blend-tec. You won’t miss the dairy in this awesome recipe, and you don’t need to use tofu either, as most vegan puddings do these days.

INGREDIENTS

• 3 large ripe bananas
• 1-1/2 c. almond milk, unsweetened
• 1 tbs vanilla extract
• 1/3 c. pitted dates
• 2 tbs chia seeds soaked in 4 tbs water for 10 minutes until gelatinous
• 3 tbs raw cashew butter

Place all ingredients in high power blender and blend until thick and creamy. Pour into bowls and refrigerate to firm up for 2 hours. Serve with fresh berries.

Here are some of my favorite resources for Chia Seeds

Mila by LifeMax – 3 varities of the best chia seeds you can find in the world all blended together!

Nutiva Brand – different organic varieties of Chia