Chia seeds

About the ingredient chia seeds. Including 9 recipes with chia seeds.

What are chia seeds?

Chia seeds are very rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Of total fats, the oil is typically 55% omega-3 and 18% omega-6.

Chia seeds are typically small ovals with a diameter of about 1 mm (0.039 in). They are mottle-colored with brown, gray, black and white.

Chia seeds can absorb up to 12 times their weight in liquid when soaked. While soaking, the seeds develop a gel-like coating that gives chia-based beverages a distinctive texture.

Chia seed is traditionally consumed in Mexico, and the southwestern United States, but is not widely known in Europe.

Chia seed is commercially grown in Nicaragua, Australia, and Guatemala. In 2008, Australia was the world's largest producer of chia.

According to the USDA, a one ounce (28 gram) serving of chia seeds contains 9 grams of fat, 5 milligrams of sodium, 11 grams of dietary fiber and 4 grams of protein. The seeds also have 18% of the recommended daily intake of calcium, 27% phosphorus and 30% manganese, which is similar in nutrient content to other edible seeds such as flax or sesame.

Even though preliminary research indicates potential for dietary health benefits, this work remains sparse and inconclusive as of 2013.

Typical use of Chia seeds for consumption may be added to other foods as a topping or put into smoothies, breakfast cereals, energy bars, yogurt, made into a gelatin-like substance, or consumed raw.

Preliminary research

One pilot study found that 10 weeks ingestion of 25 grams per day of milled chia seeds, compared to intact seeds, produced higher blood levels of alpha-linolenic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid, an omega-3 long-chain fatty acid considered good for the heart, while having no effect on inflammation or disease risk factors.

In Chinese:	嘉种子
British (UK) term:
en français:	graines de chia
en español:	semillas de chia

Recipes using chia seeds

There are 9 recipes that contain this ingredient.

Open Face Spinach Egg Sandwich

This delicious breakfast sandwich takes no time to make, and it has all the nutritions you need before lunch. No excuse to skip your breakfast.

Sunshine Smoothie

When making smoothies, use the whole fruit or vegetable and blend in a good high powered blender (Vitamix and Blendtec are two of the best ones). Fresh fruits and vegetables contain large amounts of soluble and insoluble fibre which will help keep blood sugars stable and keep you full for longer. The combination of ingredients in this smoothie makes it an ideal breakfast as it contains protein, fibre, omega-3 fatty acids and probiotics for healthy digestion.

Gluten-Free Lemon & Chia Seed Muffins

Sometimes it is hard to get the texture just right when you are attempting the art of gluten-free baking. Gluten-free flour can often leave a gritty consistency that is not desirable in your baked goods. This recipe includes a not-so-secret ingredient which will help you tackle that problem with ease. Coconut oil is just the right thing to combine with your gluten-free flour to make your muffins come out light, airy and smooth. You won’t be able to tell the difference in these treats and their less healthy counterparts. The best part about this recipe is that you will be adding chia seeds. These little powerhouses are full of Omega 3 fatty acids to help control your cholesterol. They also offer lots of antioxidants and fibre to keep you feeling great. These little snacks are going to get you really excited about healthier baking, so let’s hear a big chia!

Superfood Green Smoothie

This smoothie packs a real superfood punch with a combination of wolfberries, hemp seeds, chia seeds, maca and spirulina. Wolfberries, hemp seeds, chia seeds and spirulina are all complete proteins. In addition, chia seeds and hemp seeds are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Maca is a great hormone regulator and has traditionally been used to enhance fertility. Spirulina is one of nature's wonder foods and its GLA content (gamma linolenic acid, an important fatty acid) is second only to mother's milk.

Bircher Muesli with Pear, Coconut & Chia Seeds (Breakfast)

Bircher muesli was first developed by a Swiss physician, Maximilian Bircher-Benner as part of the therapy he prescribed for his patients. Often called simply ‘overnight oats’ Bircher muesli is an ideal breakfast food – it can be assembled the night before, left in the fridge overnight and enjoyed in the morning – there is no cooking required. It's also a perfect combination of plant-based protein, slow-release wholegrain carbohydrates, and essential fats. The version below calls for pears and coconut, but alternative combinations are provided in the notes.

Peach & Oat Smoothie

If you cannot find fresh peaches, use frozen ones (they will further thicken the smoothie). Peaches were first cultivated in China where they are considered a symbol of immortality and friendship. Nutritionally, they are a good source of selenium and vitamins A and C. Chia seeds are not only a complete protein, but supply the much needed omega-3 fatty acids missing from so many modern diets.

Carrot Cake Pancakes

These are not only delicious and reminiscent of your favourite carrot cake, they are also good for you! With no added sweeteners and completely gluten and dairy free, these are as tasty as they are good for you and make the perfect Sunday brunch or dessert.

Dragonfruit & Coconut Smoothie

This tropical fruit is not only beautiful to look at, but is also highly nutritious. It contains significant amounts of heart-healthy fibre, antioxidants, vitamin C and has been shown to keep blood glucose levels stable. Chia seeds provide a boost of omega-3 fatty acids.