Ideal Growing Conditions
Growing chia plants to harvest seeds is quite simple with the proper information. Soil is one of the most important factors to consider before getting started. Chia requires light to medium clay or sandy soils for optimal results. The plant also thrives in hotter, more tropical climates. The seeds should be first sprinkled over soil and then pushed into the earth to ensure adequate coverage. It’s important that the seeds are watered at regular intervals to ensure a good yield.
How to Use Chia Seed
If you’ve ever wondered how Chia Seeds can be eaten, then you’ve come to the right place. Chia Seeds are a versatile ingredient that taste great when eaten raw or cooked, depending on the recipe at hand. Try grinding into a paste, soaking overnight or baking as a garnish to crown gourmet creations. We like to think of Chia Seeds as being similar to poppy seeds, in that they can be used in both sweet and savoury dishes.
Expect a mild, nutty flavour that will delight the senses but be prepared for things to change, if you decide to cook them. When eaten raw, chia seeds have a crunchy and dense texture that can provide a brilliant contrast to soft, doughy treats such as bread rolls and loaves. When soaked, Chia Seeds will absorb liquid and acquire a gel form that is soft and watery, not unlike tapioca pearls.
You can bring these tiny specks of wholesome goodness to life by adding them to things like bread batter, soups, salads, oatmeal, muffins, cakes, smoothies and healthy puddings. Feel free chop and change based on how you’re feeling and enjoy chia seeds in both their raw and cooked form.
Recipe Ideas
You’ll find Chia Seeds in a wide variety of recipes because they are extremely versatile. They are commonly added to breakfast foods including muesli, porridge and yoghurt. Feel free to use Chia Seeds in puddings, cakes, milkshakes and much more. You can even sprinkle them over the top of salads for added texture. However you decide to use chia seeds, know that you will be benefiting from a world of health benefits that are sure to keep you in good stead.
Check out these two great recipe ideas below.
Chia Seed pudding
If you’re looking to feed friends or family in a hurry, then this delicious Chia Seed pudding is the thing for you. It boasts a rich and creamy texture that will delight everyone at the dinner table. Just be sure to make plenty so everyone can get their fill!
You’ll need:
- ½ cup Chia Seeds
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
The Simple Process
The beauty of this recipe is that it’s simple to make.
To start, grab a mixing bowl and whisk together the chia seeds, coconut milk, maple syrup and vanilla extract.
Cover the bowl and place in the fridge for at least 6 hours (preferably overnight).
In the morning, serve in individual bowls or cups and top with dried or fresh fruit pieces to really impress. We recommend sliced peach or tasty berries in a range of colours.
Chia Seed Oat Crackers
There’s nothing like biting into a crunchy bicky and this tasty recipe definitely lives up to expectation.
You’ll Need:
How to bring it all together
Start by preheating your oven to 375°C.
Add oats, seeds and salt in a large bowl and mix thoroughly with your hands.
Pour oil and maple syrup plus ¾ cup of water into a separate bowl and mix well.
Combine both mixtures into one bowl and stir well to create an even consistency.
From there, form into little balls and place on a baking sheet and bake until golden brown (around 15-20 minutes).
Allow to cool and then serve as you wish!
