Have you ever had chocolate chia seed pudding before? It's a dessert and snack food that doesn't require a lot of time in the kitchen (it literally takes 2 minutes to create), and it's SO good because it's 100% vegan and dairy-free.

It's easy to make, creamy, chocolatey, can be made without an oven, and it's healthy! That’s because chia seeds are little nutritional packages that contain a lot of omega 3 fatty acids and a whole lot more.

Their neutral flavour is useful, because it can be combined with other flavours to make quick recipes like this. It's also incredibly versatile, as chia seeds can be used to make anything from vegan desserts and burgers to being used as an egg replacement. (It's simple, just add 1 tablespoon of chia seeds to 2.5 tablespoons of water to make one chia egg.)

The best feature about this recipe is that you probably already have all the ingredients on hand, but if you don't, they're not hard to find!

What are chia seeds? Can I use sabja seeds instead?

Chia seeds are the edible seeds of salvia hispanica, a flowering plant native to Mexico. They’re loaded with heart-healthy omega 3 fatty acids, contain lots of fibre and protein, and absorb moisture incredibly well to become soft and gel-like.

If you would like, you can use sabja seeds for this recipe, or in any recipe that calls for chia seeds. Sabja seeds (also known as tukmaria or basil seeds) are native to India, so they may be easier to find, more affordable, and better for the environment as they don't need to be imported from the other side of the world! 

Just like chia seeds, they're rich in protein, essential fats, carbs, fibre, and so many other nutrients our bodies need.

What is in chocolate chia seed pudding?

The base ingredients for chocolate chia seed pudding are vegan milk, chia seeds, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and a sweetener like maple syrup. 

How do you make chocolate chia seed pudding?

You simply combine all the ingredients in a bowl and let it chill for at least 20 minutes! If it’s your first time making chocolate chia seed pudding and you don’t like the tapioca-like texture, you can just grind it until it’s smooth and creamy. 

How long does chocolate chia seed pudding last in the fridge?

This chocolate chia seed pudding recipe can be in the fridge for about 4 days, making it a great option for those who enjoy meal prepping. It can also be freezed to extend its shelf life for a few months, and thawed for when cravings strike!

Is chia seed pudding good for you?

Chia seed pudding is definitely healthy. Chia seeds are loaded with omega 3 fatty acids, protein, antioxidants, and fibre. On top of that, they taste incredibly good, especially in a pudding. You won’t believe the texture! And, you won’t believe how good it makes you feel after eating it.

Can you eat chia seeds raw?

You can, but it’s not ideal. 

Chocolate chia seed pudding recipe (serves 1)

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons chia seeds or sabja seeds
• 1 200 ml pack of One Good chocolate mylk
• 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder or cacao powder
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup or sweetener of choice

Directions:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, add all the ingredients and stir/whisk to combine. 
2. Leave the ingredients to sit for at least 20 minutes so that the seeds can gel up. We recommend putting the bowl in the fridge (with a lid) for this step to produce a cold pudding. Once it has sat for at least 20 minutes, you can enjoy it with a garnish of choice.
3. For best results, stir it after 20 minutes and let it sit in the fridge for another 3-4 hours, or keep it in the fridge overnight. 
4. Top with your favourite fruit, chocolate pieces, or other garnishes. 

Garnish ideas:

• Banana slices
• Chopped Strawberries
• Pomegranate seeds
• Raspberries
• Blueberries
• Granola
• Chocolate shaving
• Toasted coconut

Share this recipe with someone who loves chocolate, and let us know in the comments how it turned out!