Ch-Ch-Ch-Chia

When I started in the Natural Chef program at Bauman College a couple years ago, I was confused by all the chia talk in the first couple weeks.  "Why are they so interested in eating a plant shaped like a hippo?"  I was convinced that this place and the people in it were weird.  I discovered that they were talking about chia seeds, not pets, and that the seeds were powerfully nutritious.

They're full of antioxidants, fiber, and Omega-3's. They contain more iron than a bowl of spinach and more calcium than a glass of milk.....so bring it on!  Additionally they absorb nine times their weight in liquid and create a gelatinous goodness when soaked.  It's believed that ancient Aztec warriors filled their pockets with chia seeds when they travelled long distances into battle, and the seeds could sustain them for up to 24 hours. Because they absorb so much liquid, the seeds would keep them hydrated.  I don't know any aztec warriors, but I know plenty of people who just throw a tablespoon into a glass of water and drink it down.  Yuck!  I say let's make some pudding!!

Orange-Infused Chocolate Chia Pudding
Makes 4 half-cup servings

1/4 cup raw cashews, soaked in water for 1 hour
1/4 cup cacao powder (I love Navitas Naturals brand for the cacao and the chia seeds)
1 cup Straus Family organic half & half
5 dates, pitted and chopped
2 tablespoons orange juice concentrate
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoon chia seeds, soaked in 1/2 cup water for 20 minutes

• Drain cashews and place in blender.
• Add cacao powder, half & half, dates, juice concentrate, and vanilla and process until smooth.
• Add chia seeds and their soaking liquid and process again until smooth.

You're gonna love a dessert that's this tasty AND good for you!!
Trust me....and get blending!