What are Chia Seeds?

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What are chia seeds? Are chia seeds healthy? What can I make with chia seeds? Read on for answers to these questions!

Are you wondering what a chia seed is? Although hearing the name “chia” may remind you of the popular “Ch-Ch-Ch-Chia!” Pets from the 80’s (and you’re not wrong!), chia seeds may not be exactly what you might think.

What are Chia Seeds?

Chia seeds are tiny (I mean, TINY), smooth black or white seeds from a desert plant in the mint family known as Salvia hispanica. This plant grows primarily in Mexico and Guatemala and dates back to Mayan and Aztec cultures, the time period in which the seeds were a staple crop. While the seeds date back thousands of years, they have recently become wildly popular among health-conscious individuals, and for good reason! Despite their small size, chia seeds pack a powerful nutritious punch!

Are Chia Seeds Healthy?

Chia seeds are a powerhouse of nutrients for your body (which is why many people call them a “superfood”!). The seeds are a good source of fiber, calcium, iron, magnesium, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants. They have even more omega-3 fatty acids than flax seeds, and (unlike flax seeds) they don’t need to be ground up for the body to absorb their nutrients.

All chia seeds are naturally gluten-free and vegan, so they are appropriate for a wide variety of diet plans. Another benefit to chia seeds is the various ways you may consume them.

How to Eat Chia Seeds

Raw. Soaked. Baked. Cooked. Blended. Chia seeds are very versatile and perfect to add into many foods and beverages for an extra boost of nutrients! Smoothies, snack bars, jams, cookies, and more are popular ways to enjoy chia seeds. Other uses for the superfood seeds are toppings for yogurts, salads, smoothie bowls, drinks, oatmeal, and more.

Mixing chia seeds with a liquid, such as almond milk, yields delicious chia “pudding” you’ve likely seen as a popular healthy recipe on Pinterest! This happens because chia seeds absorb liquid and thicken, creating a pudding-like consistency! In a similar way, you can use the seeds to thicken and “set” various flavors of chia fruit jam.

When combined with water, chia seeds can even be used as a vegan egg substitute! After chia seeds sit in water for a few minutes, they become gelatinous, similar to the texture of an egg. Chia “eggs” work well to bind baked goods together. Amazing!

What Do Chia Seeds Taste Like?

If you’ve never had chia seeds and are concerned you won’t like the taste, I have good news! Chia seeds are neutral in flavor and perfect to add to virtually any recipe to boost the nutritional profile.

More Recipes Using Chia Seeds:

• Easy Blackberry Chia Jam
• 5-Minute Granola Bars
• Easy Strawberries and Cream Smoothie
• Cinnamon Apple Overnight Oats

Where to Buy Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are available in most grocery stores, health food stores, and specialty food stores (both in-person and online). Amazon has many great options as well, such as this bag of organic chia seeds from Mamma Chia.

Storage

Store chia seeds in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Thanks to their antioxidant properties, they will last several years without refrigeration!

Did you know? National Chia Day is celebrated every year on March 23! Comment below: Have you ever tried chia seeds? If you have, what is your favorite way to eat them?