Almond Cacao Chia Pudding

A bit of sweet is a necessity – I have bars of chocolate hidden away in drawers all around my home and office. I live in a home that takes ‘survival of the fittest’ to a whole new level – if you didn’t eat your tiffin as soon as it came, it was sure to be gone. I learnt this the hard way, and have had to use Swiggy for late lunches many a times. It is perhaps the main reason why I eat incredibly fast and after 30 years, I still wolf down french fries, ice cream and packet crisps like someone is going after them! If you’re taking me out on a date, understand why I said no to an ice cream drive! So, going back to the point, I need dark chocolate – on a daily basis, regardless of the ‘diet’ I’m on.

And a detox or healthy January (whatever tickles you!) doesn’t mean you have to let go of the sweet tooth. Here’s a chia seed pudding that’s not just a sweet tooth buster, but also incredibly good for you! Chia seeds (chia = Mayan word for strength) are loaded with healthy omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, antioxidants, iron, and calcium. They have roughly 2 grams of plant-based protein per tablespoon, and will keep you full for hours due to the satiating fat and fiber content. Chia seeds are higher in quality protein than most plant foods. And we all know protein is the most weight loss friendly macronutrient and can drastically reduce appetite and cravings.

I swirl this in with almond unsweetened milk (you can use soy milk, cashew milk, coconut milk or any other dairy-free option!) along with honey to sweeten – which means this is not vegan. If you want a vegan option, opt for palm sugar or jaggery powder – that’s if you even want more sweetness! It’s an indulgent ingredient list – vanilla bean, cacao powder, cinnamon and sea salt. You don’t even need a whisk – just a spoon and an arm work out! Have this for breakfast, mid morning meal, afternoon pick me up or post dinner!