Chia Seeds and Chia Gel - Health benefits and uses for Baking and Cooking

Chia seeds, yes the same ones that you may remember growing in Chia Pets with the popular Ch-ch-ch-chia slogan.  Aww, how I am reminded of my frizzy haired childhood, the days before flat irons, and the sound of classmates signing Ch-ch-ch-chia as I passed by. These tiny seeds are also superfoods and are the reason Chia Pets grew their trademark manes.  

In 2014, chia has become known as a great source of fibre and omega-3 fatty acid (that healthy stuff in fish.)  More than any time before; we have become focused on living a healthy lifestyle and creating /maintaining a beautiful exterior. 

As a chef, I am constantly surrounded by delicious and not so nutritious food, and therefore; constantly dieting.  The addition of chia seeds to my diet and recipes assists me in weight loss and maintenance.  You see chia seeds, when consumed, keep you feeling full for longer as a result of their unique gelling action.  When exposed to liquid, a gel like coating forms which increases the size and weight, this helps your body feel full.  

Chia Gel, the liquid form of chia seeds, may be taken by itself or added to creamy and liquid foods, significantly boosting nutrition and acting both as a food extender and a calorie displacer. I have a hyper thyroid and stable blood sugar levels help me to avoid cravings for foods, like carbs which I crave all the time.  Chia helps me to avoid the “highs” and “lows” and sustains my blood sugar level. 

Some cooking and baking uses for chia seeds are:

• Mix chia seeds with bread crumbs or flour when dredging fried foods
• Use as a replacement for poppy seeds in any recipe
• Add to oatmeal or porridge
• Add to smoothies and work-out drinks
• Add to jams /jellies /pudding
• Add chia seeds to salads or sprinkle over pasta

Some cooking and baking uses for chia gel are:

• A natural thickener for soups and sauces
• A great addition to protein shakes
• A binder in stuffing/meatloaf/meatballs instead of eggs or breadcrumbs.
• Use chia gel instead of oil in salad dressings
• Add to batter in replacement of oil
• Combat heartburn/acid reflux by drinking a few spoonful’s daily
• Add a few tablespoons to scrambled eggs instead of water or milk
• Mix with almond / nut butter for additional nutrition 

 

Chia Seeds and Gel - Try some today!