BUMP + BEYOND : ENERGISING BERRY CHIA PUDDING

Nov 3

This recipe is so simple, requires just 5 ingredients, can be bulk prepared and doubles as a breakfast, snack or pudding. Importantly it tastes delicious. It’s made using chia seeds - these super seeds act a powerhouse for pregnant women, as they are:

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids which help in the development of the brain and nervous system of the baby and boost the mother’s immunity
Rich in protein which is needed for growing and repairing cells and tissues
Good source of iron which supports the development of extra red blood cells (during pregnancy your blood volume will increase by almost 50%)
Good source of calcium which helps the growth of a baby’s bones
Good source of dietary fibre which supports a healthy digestive system

Chia seeds soak up any liquid they come into contact with (expanding up to 9-10 times their original size) to form a gel-like substance. Allowing them slowly release energy and will keep you feeling fuller for longer. Therefore this recipe is great for new mammas too! In fact, the Aztec Warriors relied on chia seeds for energy.

Recipe

Servings: 1 large portion (breakfast) or 2 smaller portions (snack or pudding)

Ingredients:

160ml almond milk (or your choice of milk)
3 tbsp chia seeds
3 tbsp yogurt (I used plain coconut)
100g strawberries
Squeeze of lemon
Your favourite toppings: fresh berries, toasted almonds, granola, nut butter

Method:

Pop the chia seeds in a bowl and add the almond milk and yogurt. Give it a really good stir - this is really important to prevent it forming clumps.
Decant the mixture into an airtight jar and pop in the fridge to set. Leave for at least 30 minutes, but ideally overnight (for a super simple breakfast the following day).
Whilst the chia pudding is chilling, pop the strawberries in a blender with a squeeze of lemon and blitz until smooth.
When you are ready to serve, pour the strawberry mixture into the bottom of a glass jar (or 2 if you are making 2 portions) and then top with the chia pudding mixture.
Add your favourite toppings, sit back, relax and enjoy.

Top tips: If you are using plain yogurt add 1/2 tsp of vanilla extract for extra flavour. The chia pudding mixture will keep in the fridge for 2-3 days so make a big batch and mix up the toppings so you always have a nutritious breakfast to hand!