Chia Seed Pudding... Dairy-Free, Gluten-Free

Chia Seed Pudding (No-Cook)... Dairy-Free. When I made the Brazilian-style shrimp stew recently, I ended up having quite a bit of cashew milk leftover. Since I had a big bag of chia seeds in my fridge, I decided on the spur of the moment to turn the nut milk into a quick and healthy dessert... a pudding that could double up as a snack or breakfast item.   

This is a simple, no-cook type of pudding and it happens to be gluten-free and dairy free. A pudding that's great all year round( I can only imagine how nice this could be during the summer months with fresh fruits)... and is adaptable to a wide variety of toppings or add-ins. I used cashew milk, but you can use whatever milk you like... even a combination of milks.

For my version I chose to go with  middle eastern flavors... and really enjoyed it. I know chia seed puddings aren't something new, but I thought to share this recipe, last minute, in case some of you have never tried it. Hope you enjoy...    

You will need:

2 cups cashew milk (can use almond milk, coconut milk or milk of choice)*

1/4 cup honey, to taste (or other sweetener of choice)

pinch of salt

pinch of freshly grated nutmeg

pinch of cinnamon

pinch of cardamon, optional

a few gratings of orange zest (or citrus of choice)

1/3 cup chia seeds, can use a bit more if you want it much thicker

vanilla, I didn't use, but it would be great

*to make nut milk, soak nuts(if desired overnight) add 1 cup nuts to about 3 cups water, blend till smooth and creamy

Toppings and extra sweetener of choice, if needed:

*dried chopped fruit~ dates, raisins, blueberries, cranberries, cherries, apricots, etc

*chopped nuts~ walnuts, pecans, pistachios, almonds, hazelnuts, peanuts, toasted coconut flakes, etc

*maple syrup, honey

Other ideas~ chopped chocolate, cacao powder, fresh fruits

Directions:

1. Combine nut milk with honey ( or sweetener of choice) until  honey is dissolved. 

2. Add cinnamon, nutmeg and orange zest. Stir to combine.

3. Sprinkle chia seeds over milk and whisk  to combine well.

4. Place chia seed milk mixture in fridge for a few hours till thickened... preferably overnight.  

5. Add any toppings of choice... you can layer the pudding with toppings for a pretty presentation.... and add extra sweetener if desired.