Matcha Chia Seed Pudding

This Matcha Chia Seed Pudding is an easy breakfast or snack recipe that’s rich in protein, omega 3s and antioxidants. It’s also quick to make so instead of being in the kitchen, you can spend your time doing the things you love!

What is chia pudding?

Chia seed pudding is what we get when we mix chia seeds with a type of milk. The chia seeds absorb any liquid they come in contact with and create a soft, gelatinous (for some, slimy) texture. Chia pudding can also be made with yogurt in place of some of the milk. This creates a creamier texture that’s even higher in protein.

It does take time for this absorption process to happen. I recommend storing the chia seed pudding in the fridge for at least one hour to allow the seeds to get to the most desirable texture. Most recipes recommend refrigerating it overnight, making this a great option for meal preparation in advance.

There are so many ways to add flavour to chia pudding. Of course, in this recipe we are using matcha tea powder. However, you can really add whatever toppings or mix-ins you prefer. Here are some of my favourite additions:

• cocoa powder for a chocolate flavour
• coconut milk or coconut yogurt for a rich, creamy taste
• a blend of stone fruits like mangoes and peaches
• you can even add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of granola on top for variations in texture.

I have shared some of the health benefits of chia seeds below.

 

What is matcha powder?

Matcha powder is finely ground, almost powdery, Japanese green tea leaves. It is bright green in colour and when prepared, it has a relatively bitter taste to it.

There are many health benefits to matcha powder, given it’s high concentration of polyphenols. These polyphenols have antioxidant and antiinflammatory properties. One review states that “with regular consumption, [matcha] may support the body’s efforts to maintain health and prevent disease.”

Matcha contains more caffeine than regular green tea but some users claim that the effects of the caffeine intake from matcha are much different than that from coffee. Some people (depending on their caffeine tolerance), notice a gradual increase in energy and focus, rather than a spike and subsequent crash. That being said, please be conscious about when you eat this chia pudding. If you are easily affected by caffeine, make sure that you’re not having it right before bed!

Matcha powder can be used in beverages, added to baked goods or even mixed into recipes (hint: chia seed pudding) like we’re doing here! I hope you give it a try and eventually love matcha as much as I do.

How to make Matcha Chia Seed Pudding

For this recipe, you will need:

• Chia seeds
  • Black and white chia seeds will both work with this recipe.
• Matcha powder
  • Make sure to sift this before adding it to the chia seed mixture. This helps prevent clumps of matcha powder.
• Vanilla extract
• Honey or maple syrup
  • Or your choice of preferred sweetener.
• Milk
  • I recommend using soy or coconut milk. Soy milk is higher in protein compared to other plant-based milk. Coconut milk adds a creamy texture and deeper flavour. Use whatever milk you have available!

 

Making this pudding couldn’t be easier. Here are the instructions:

1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chia seeds and matcha together. I recommend sifting the matcha before adding it to the chia seeds. This helps reduce any clumps of matcha. If you love the taste of matcha, feel free to add up to 1 tbsp instead of 1/2 tbsp in this recipe. Mix well.
2. Pour in your choice of milk or plant-based beverage. Also add vanilla extract and either honey or maple syrup if you need a sweetener. Stir this until it’s well combined and all the chia seeds are covered in the milk.
3. Place the bowl in the fridge and allow the pudding to set for a minimum of 1 hour. You can leave it in the fridge overnight if you have the time.
4. Once it is set, serve it with your choice of toppings and enjoy!

If you’re not a big fan of the seedy texture, blending the chia pudding is always an option. Before you let the mixture set, toss it in the blender and blitz it up for about 10 seconds, or until mostly smooth. Let it set for a minimum of 1 hour (ideally overnight). Serve as recommended.

I recommend making a big batch of this recipe and keeping it in the fridge for 2-3 days. This way, you have a filling and nutritious option covered for breakfasts and snacks!

The best milk for chia seed pudding

The best milk for making this matcha chia pudding is whatever type you have available. I want this recipe to be as easy and convenient for you as possible. That being said, I love to use soy or coconut milk here.

Soy milk is my go-to plant-based beverage because it has a higher protein content than other types of plant-based milks like almond or oat milk.

Using coconut milk is a fun and easy way to achieve a bit of a different flavour profile. Pairing the matcha powder and chia seeds with coconut milk is a perfect balance between fresh and earthy combined with creamy and cozy.

If you are a fan of dairy milk and can your digestive system can tolerate it, feel free to use this in the recipe instead!

Chia Seed Nutrition

This Matcha Chia Seed Pudding recipe calls for ¼ cup (or 4 tbsp) of chia seeds. However, in just 1 tbsp of dry chia seeds, there is roughly:

• 2 grams of protein
• 3.5 grams of fibre
• 100%+ of your daily omega 3 recommendation
• A significant source of vitamin K and other minerals

As you can see, these little seeds provide so many nutrients! With the protein and fibre, they add some staying power too, keeping you full for longer. And if you’re not a fish lover, they can help you meet your daily omega 3 needs!

 

Dietary restrictions and considerations

If you have any dietary restrictions, you will be happy to know that this Matcha Chia Seed Pudding is:

• gluten free
• lactose free
• vegetarian
• vegan (if using maple syrup instead of honey)

It’s also an excellent option for a quick and easy meal prep recipe. Because it can double as a breakfast or a snack, you can mix it up, depending on how your appetite and cravings are each day.

I hope you love this Matcha Chia Seed Pudding! If you’re looking for more healthy and delicious snack ideas, that also double as breakfast options, check out these recipes:

• Banana Chocolate Chia Pudding
• Peanut Butter Banana Yogurt Bowls
• Chocolate Chip Power Cookies
• Healthy Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins
• Oat & Almond Granola Bar

 

If you make this Matcha Chia Seed Pudding, I would love to see your comment and rating below. It also makes my day seeing your creations of my recipes on Instagram- don’t forget to tag @allnutrition.rd!