Chia Seed Pudding with Mango

Recipe Overview:

Chia Seed Pudding with Mango is a delightful, nutritious treat that combines the creamy texture of chia pudding with the sweet, tropical flavor of fresh mango. Originating from Latin America, chia seeds have been treasured for centuries for their health benefits. This dish is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even a light dessert, making it an excellent choice for any occasion. The flavor profile is subtly sweet and refreshing, while the texture is creamy with a slight crunch from the chia seeds.

Prep and Cook Times:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes (requires chilling time)
• Total Time: 2 hours (including chilling)
• Skill Level: Beginner

Serving Information:

• Servings: 4
• Serving Suggestions: Garnish with extra mango slices, a sprinkle of toasted coconut, or a few fresh mint leaves for added freshness.

Ingredients List:

• Chia Seeds: ½ cup (80g)
• Almond Milk (or any milk of choice): 2 cups (480ml)
• Maple Syrup (or honey): 2 tablespoons (30ml) – adjust to taste
• Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon (5ml)
• Mango: 1 large ripe mango, diced (or use 2 small mangoes)
• Optional Garnishes: Toasted coconut flakes, fresh mint leaves

Substitutions:

• Milk: Use coconut milk for a richer flavor or oat milk for a nut-free option.
• Sweetener: Use agave syrup for a vegan option or skip sweeteners for a low-sugar treat.
• Chia Seeds: If you don’t have chia seeds, flaxseeds can be used, but the texture will differ.

Equipment List:

• Mixing Bowl: Medium-sized for combining ingredients.
• Whisk or Spoon: For mixing.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate measurements.
• Containers or Jars: 4 small jars or bowls for serving and chilling.
• Spatula: For scraping down the bowl (optional).
• Blender: Optional, if you want to puree the mango for a smoother texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the chia seeds, almond milk, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until well combined.
2. Rest the Mixture: Let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes, then whisk again to prevent clumping of the chia seeds.
3. Chill: Divide the mixture evenly into 4 containers or jars. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results. The pudding should thicken to a creamy consistency.
4. Prepare the Mango: While the pudding is chilling, peel and dice the mango. If desired, you can blend half of the mango to create a smooth mango puree for layering.
5. Assemble: Once the pudding has set, layer the mango or mango puree on top of the chia pudding in each jar. You can mix them or leave them separate for a beautiful presentation.
6. Garnish and Serve: Top with toasted coconut flakes and fresh mint leaves if desired. Enjoy chilled!

Technique Tips and Troubleshooting:

• Prevent Clumping: Whisking the mixture after letting it sit helps ensure the chia seeds don’t clump together.
• Adjust Consistency: If the pudding is too thick after chilling, stir in a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
• Mango Ripeness: Make sure your mango is ripe for the best flavor; it should be slightly soft to the touch.

Plating and Presentation:

Serve the pudding in clear jars to showcase the beautiful layers of creamy pudding and vibrant mango. For added appeal, drizzle a little extra mango puree on top or sprinkle some toasted coconut flakes. Fresh mint leaves add a lovely touch of green.

Storage and Reheating Instructions:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Chia pudding is best enjoyed cold and does not need reheating.

Variations and Customizations:

• Add-ins: Mix in a tablespoon of nut butter for an extra creamy texture and flavor boost.
• Fruit Variations: Substitute mango with other fruits like berries, kiwi, or banana.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth and depth of flavor.

Notes on Ingredients and Equipment:

• Chia Seeds: These tiny seeds expand to create a gel-like consistency, providing a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber.
• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh, ripe mango will significantly enhance the flavor of your pudding.

Final Touches and Personal Notes:

This Chia Seed Pudding with Mango holds a special place in my heart as a refreshing treat from my travels to tropical destinations. It’s easy to make and can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs. I encourage you to experiment with different fruits and flavors to make this recipe your own. Enjoy the process and the delicious results! If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out and any tweaks you made along the way!