Cookin' with Jazz - Chocolate Chia Pudding

Chocolate Chia Pudding

by Jasmine De La Paz 

It is officially Summer. Not only does that mean longer days of sunshine, BBQs, visits to the beach, and Summer vacations, but also HOT weather. It has been sooo hot here in LA, and all I have been craving is cooling foods such as smoothies, salads, and juices. However, even I can get a bit tired of smoothies from time to time, so I love to make different variations to chia puddings. 

There are literally hundreds of recipes to whip up for chia pudding. I usually make a big batch and eat throughout the week either by itself, with yogurt, topped on smoothies, or mixed in with muesli. It's not only good for breakfast, but also makes the perfect snack or dessert. Speaking of dessert, I made this Chocolate Chia Pudding variation to satisfy my sweet tooth and endless craving for chocolate. It's a lot healthier than reaching for a tub of ice cream - even if it's vegan ice cream! 

I've written about chia seeds before - but they are magical little seeds. Kinda off subject, but did you know they are the same seeds that make chia pets?! Weird. Anyway, back to the magic of chia seeds. These tiny seeds are packed with nutrients, including healthy omega 3-fatty acids, protein, fiber, antioxidants, and more. 

Chocolate Chia Pudding (serves 8)

• 2 bananas
• 1 1/2 cups almond milk
• 1.5 tbsp coconut nectar
• 1/2 tbsp cinnamon
• 2.5 tbsp cacao
• 1 tbsp nut butter
• dash of salt 
• 1/2 cup chia seeds 
• 1/2 tsp maca (optional) 

Blend all the ingredients but the chia seeds in a blender. Once everything is well blended, pour into a bowl. Slowly add the chia seeds in, mixing while you add. Make sure the chia seeds are completely mixed in with the liquid and there are no clumps. Let sit for 5 minutes. Stir again, then place in the refrigerator overnight. Enjoy! 

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