Chia Seed Pudding - Delicious Science
Chia seed pudding is an easy, healthy and delicious snack for children. Our recipe is very simple and can be made as a process cooking activity with little effort.
Our version of chia seed pudding is delicious and versatile, and fun to make as well! It is also a great way to introduce scientific concepts around seeds, planting and changes of state. After sitting for about 20 minutes, the chia seeds will grow a skin around them (mucilage), which they use to protect themselves and help them to germinate in the ground, but also creates the fun texture of this pudding! You can choose which ever fruit you like to add sweetness, so pick something fun and seasonal, or try one of our quick and tasty variations.
CP Chia Seed Pudding
Recipe by Clean Plate
(Makes one individual preschool-sized serving)
Ingredients:
1/4 cup mashed or stewed fruit (we used mashed banana or tinned crushed pineapple)
3 Tbsp coconut milk
1 Tbsp chia seeds
Method:
Add the mashed fruit into a small cup or bowl. Or, if using banana, mash about 1/3 of a banana in the bowl.
Measure and mix in the coconut milk.
Measure and add the chia seeds and mix through.
Let sit in the refrigerator, or counter, for about 20 minutes (or it can sit longer, i.e. overnight, if needed).
Once your Chia Seed Pudding is ready, it'll be fun to notice the change in texture and discuss this with the children. The science behind it is fairly simple:
Chia seeds contain mucilage which allows germination to occur. When this type of mucilage comes into contact with water (or coconut milk), it swells up and absorbs the water so it can surround the seed with moisture while it germinates. This mucilage creates the rapid change you see to chia seeds, when they are soaked in liquid. The mucilage keeps water in to aid the seed in germination.
Chia seeds also have many health benefits. They are high in fibre and beneficial Omega-3 fats, contain an array of vitamins and minerals, and are high in antioxidants. Our Chia Seed Pudding is also great for children with allergies as it’s gluten, dairy, egg, soy and nut free!
The recipe above is for use the the classroom as process cooking and will serve one preschool aged child. If you would like to make a bigger batch please use the printable recipe below!