Why is chia pudding with homemade coconut milk so good for you? Actually, there are several health benefits and it is super easy to make!
Here is a list of the numerous reasons why you should put this tiny seed in your body:
- Chia seeds contain more antioxidants than blueberries
- Chia seeds contain more omega-3 fatty acids than salmon
- Chia seeds contain more calcium than milk
- Chia seeds provide fiber and iron
- Chia seeds true carb content is only 1 gram per ounce
- Chia seeds are a high quality protein
- Chia seeds can cause major improvement in Type 2 diabetes
I would say that line up is pretty convincing! And the best part is the ease of making chia pudding with homemade coconut milk.
How to make Coconut Milk using Shredded Coconut
I recently visited a dear friend of mine in Little Rock and she taught me how to make homemade coconut milk. It is super easy to make and so yummy. It’s 100% better tasting than coconut milk in a box and it has no added carrageenan or other preservatives. To make the coconut milk you will need two items: organic shredded coconut and filtered water. Yep, that’s it, unless you want to add a little vanilla extract.
Let the hot water sit over the shredded coconut for about 30 seconds to 1 minute before blending. Then blend on high for approximately one minute in a high-powered blender. Once you are finished blending the coconut and water into coconut milk, use a fine mesh strainer to separate the coconut pulp from the coconut milk. Place the coconut milk in a glass jar with a secure lid and refrigerate up to four days. I use it in my morning coffee in place of cow’s milk; it is a great dairy-free alternative.
Here is a recipe from the Nourished Kitchen on how to make coconut milk from fresh brown coconuts!
Homemade Coconut Milk
Print recipe
| Serves | 4 |
| Prep time | 15 minutes |
| Dietary | Dairy-free, Gluten-free, Paleo |
| Meal type | Beverage |
Ingredients
- 2 cups Organic Shredded Coconut
- 4 cups Filtered Water (hot)
Optional
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
Directions
| Step 1 | |
| Place the shredded coconut in a high powered blender. | |
| Step 2 | |
| Pour hot water over the coconut and allow to stand for 30 seconds to 1 minute. | |
| Step 3 | |
| Blend on high for one minute. | |
| Step 4 | |
| Pour coconut milk through a fine mesh strainer into a large spouted container. Use a large spoon to press out any excess milk in the coconut pulp. | |
| Step 5 | |
| Place coconut milk in a glass container with lid and keep refrigerated for up to four days. | |
How to make Chia Seed Pudding
Start with 2 1/2 cups of fresh coconut milk and add 1/2 cup chia seeds. Stir immediately, as the chia seeds will tend to clump together. Add 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract, 15-20 drops of vanilla flavored stevia drops (or 1/4 cup maple syrup, and a 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon.
Stir until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. Chia seeds will absorb a large portion of the liquid as it sits over time.
Pour the chia pudding with homemade coconut milk mixture into small jam jars, place a lid on top and put them in the refrigerator to enjoy the next morning for breakfast or a mid-day snack. You can always add fresh fruit on top but I find this a satisfying treat all on its own. Enjoy this nutritionally dense treat!
Chia Pudding with Homemade Coconut Milk
| Serves | 3 |
| Prep time | 20 minutes |
| Dietary | Dairy-free, Gluten-free, Paleo, Vegan |
| Meal type | Breakfast, Snack |
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups Homemade Coconut Milk
- 1/2 cup Chia Seeds
- 15-20 drops Vanilla Cream Liquid Stevia (or 1/4 cup maple syrup)
- 1/2 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon
Optional
- 1/4 cup Fresh Fruit (added on top)
Directions
| Step 1 | |
| Place homemade coconut milk in a medium size bowl and add chia seeds to milk. Stir immediately. | |
| Step 2 | |
| Add liquid stevia drops (or maple syrup) and vanilla extract. Stir | |
| Step 3 | |
| Add cinnamon and stir vigorously to blend all the cinnamon. | |
| Step 4 | |
| Place pudding mixture in small jam jars, cover with lids and place in refrigerator for up to four days. | |
