Matcha Chia Seed Pudding

Like matcha, the tiny, yet mighty South American chia seed is becoming a staple in clean-living diets. The whole grain is packed with concentrated amounts of omega-3s, healthy carbohydrates, protein, and especially fiber — the latter of which causes the seeds to expand and release their gelatin-like properties — and creates a delightful “pudding.” After my morning run, there’s nothing I look forward to more than refueling with this chilled breakfast treat.

Ingredients

• ¼ cup chia seeds
• 1½ tsp Organic Signature Matcha
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk (or organic milk of your choice)
• Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, coconut, cacao nibs, chopped pecans, or granola to garnish
• Optional: Preferred sweetener, to taste (I suggest agave syrup because it dissolves quickly and evenly, and its smooth flavors nicely balance matcha's delicate bitterness)

Recipe

1. Add chia seeds and matcha to a small bowl (a traditional chawan (matcha bowl) or mason jar works just fine) and gently swirl to combine. 
2. Drizzle the vanilla and top with almond milk. Add optional sweetener. 
3. Refrigerate overnight.
4. When ready to enjoy, add your favorite toppings. 

Author Note: How else can you use chia? Let me count the ways… toss a teaspoon in your matcha waffle or pancake batter, or in a matcha smoothie. Sprinkle a teaspoon over your matcha oatmeal or yogurt, or even over savory salads with a matcha salad dressing or soba noodles. Itadakimasu! Enjoy.