Chia Seeds

I'm so excited about my newest discovery and addition to our diet around here. Have you heard of Chia Seeds? They are extraordinary tiny seeds, which, when soaked in liquid, take on the flavor of that liquid and become delightful little tapioca-like bits added to just about anything! What is the point, you may ask? Well, they are much higher in Omega-3 oils than the flax seed, for one. They also have a much longer life than the flax before going bad. Additionally, they contain the perfect 2-to-1 ratio of omega 3's and 6's. They are very high in fiber, help stabilize blood sugar levels, are high in protein, high in antioxidants, and are very low in calories and carbs, just to mention a few benefits! I've been enjoying them in my little ritualistic morning cup of coffee and also in Superfood (our morning green food smoothie) all mixed up in our Vitamixer. The kids like them in apple juice or water. Lately, I've presoaked them. (They really should be presoaked, as they absorb a lot of liquid which can mess up an otherwise yummy creation. 1/3 cup seeds to 2 cups water. Let sit and soak for 5 minutes. I keep some made up in a canning jar in the fridge for quick access. Use within 3 days, if presoaked.) I add them to applesauce, or plain yogurt with a few drops of Stevia and vanilla. YUM! My kiddos are happy about my discovery, as these little seeds have taken the place of the liquid fish oil they used to have to gag down! :-)

(If I knew even a tiny bit about blogging, I'd have a picture of them posted here!)