How do you use chia seeds in your cooking?

Chia seeds are small, but they contain lots of nutrients.. It is a really good and rich ingredient that you can easily use in your dishes to benefit from the nutritional benefits that chia seeds contain. Chia seeds contain fatty acids (Omega-3), dietary fiber, protein and minerals.

I have written an article about chia seeds: Chia seeds – natural detox, energy and satiety. Perfect for healthy meals.
You are welcome to read the article if you don't know much about chia seeds and want more in-depth information about chia seeds. In this article I will tell you how you can easily use chia seeds in your cooking. 

When buying chia seeds, it is important to make sure that they do not smell rancid. Once you open the bag, you should store the chia seeds in a cool, dark place or in a dry cupboard – for example, in your pantry. When you store the seeds correctly, they will stay fresh for longer.
Chia seeds are incredibly versatile in cooking. They work well as a natural thickener and emulsifier, adding a delicious, rich texture to smoothies, desserts, and dressings.

Research suggests that eating 2 tablespoons of chia seeds (about 28 g) daily is recommended for the best health benefits, whether you use them in food, skyr, yogurt, or drinks.

Use chia seeds in your smoothies

To provide extra dietary fiber, protein, minerals and satiety to your smoothie, you can add 1-2 teaspoons of chia seeds to the blender along with the fruit and liquid. You can also sprinkle a little on top of a nice smoothie.

Chia seeds in yogurt and skyr

When you want to use chia seeds in yogurt and skyr, it is a good idea to soak the chia seeds for a few minutes, about 5-10 min. Use about 28 g and soak them in water, milk or coconut milk overnight, then the seeds will be even softer. The seeds swell and form a gel, which is easier to digest and provides more satiety.

They are also ready for you to mix them into your yogurt or skyr. You can add fruit, berries, honey and other delicious things to the chia porridge and flavor it. Then you are ready to eat your chia porridge.

Chia seeds in salads

You can sprinkle the seeds on salads, porridge or breakfast cereals. They are a crunchy and nutritious topping, just like flax seeds or nuts.
Use only 1-2 teaspoons.
You therefore do not need to soak chia seeds if you are using a small amount as a topping.

Chia seeds in baked goods, energy bars and granola bars

If you are one of those who likes to bake and make energy and granola bars, then chia seeds are great to add to your recipes to increase the nutritional content.