Matcha Chia Seed Pudding

If you’re looking for a quick, nutrient-packed breakfast or snack that’s as vibrant as it is delicious, then Matcha Chia Seed Pudding might be your next favourite recipe! This creamy, plant-based pudding is perfect for busy mornings, mid-day snacks, or even as a guilt-free dessert. With matcha’s earthy taste paired with the rich, creamy texture of chia pudding, this recipe is a treat for both your taste buds and your health. Plus, it’s endlessly customisable with toppings and flavours to suit your preference.

What is Matcha, and What Are the Benefits?

Matcha is a high-quality green tea powder made from specially-grown tea leaves. Originating in Japan, it has a unique, slightly bitter flavor profile and a vibrant green color due to its high chlorophyll content. Matcha is renowned for its impressive health benefits, including a rich supply of antioxidants (especially catechins), which help combat oxidative stress. It also contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes calmness and enhances focus, making it a great morning pick-me-up without the jitters.

What Are Chia Seeds, and What Are the Benefits?

Chia seeds may be tiny, but they pack a powerful nutritional punch! Originally from Central America, chia seeds are loaded with fiber, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and essential minerals like calcium and magnesium. When mixed with liquid, they absorb up to 12 times their weight and form a gel-like consistency, which makes them perfect for creating pudding. Thanks to their high fiber content, chia seeds support digestive health and keep you feeling full longer, making them a great option for balanced meals and snacks.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this simple, delicious Matcha Chia Seed Pudding:

• 4 tablespoons chia seeds
• 1 cup coconut milk (or any other milk of choice)
• 1 tablespoon matcha powder
• Optional sweetener of choice (e.g., stevia, honey, or maple syrup)
• Optional but recommended: a few drops of vanilla extract

Toppings

• Red berries jam (optional, see recipe for homemade jam)
• Coconut flakes

This recipe yields about 3 servings of pudding.

How to Make Matcha Chia Seed Pudding

Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together chia seeds, matcha powder, and milk until well combined. Stir in your sweetener and a few drops of vanilla extract if you’re using them.

Mix and Rest: Let the mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent clumping.

Refrigerate: Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, until the mixture thickens into a pudding-like consistency.

Serve: Once thickened, give it a good stir and divide the pudding into three portions. Top with red berries jam and coconut flakes for an extra boost of flavor and texture.

Variations

This Matcha Chia Seed Pudding recipe is highly versatile! Here are some delicious ways to customize it:

• Fruit Purees: Swirl in a spoonful of mango, strawberry, or blueberry puree for a fruity twist.
• Nut Butters: Add a dollop of almond, peanut, or cashew butter for added creaminess and healthy fats.
• Spices: A dash of cinnamon or cardamom complements the matcha beautifully and adds a warm, cozy flavor.
• Chocolate Lover’s Option: Substitute a teaspoon of matcha powder with cacao powder and enjoy a chocolate-chia version!
• Nut Milks: Experiment with almond, cashew, or oat milk for slightly different flavor profiles.

 

Mar’s Tips

• Matcha Quality: Use a high-quality culinary or ceremonial-grade matcha for the best color and flavor.
• Avoid Clumping: Stir the mixture every few minutes in the first 15 minutes to prevent the chia seeds from clumping together.
• Texture Preference: If you prefer a smoother pudding, blend the chia seed mixture in a blender after it has thickened. This gives it a creamy, mousse-like texture.
• Sweetening Tip: Adjust the sweetness to your preference by gradually adding your chosen sweetener. Some matcha powders are more bitter than others, so you may need more or less.
• Topping Flexibility: Don’t be afraid to get creative with toppings! Fresh fruit, nuts, or granola can elevate both the flavor and nutritional value.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can make Matcha Chia Seed Pudding up to three days in advance. Just store it in airtight containers in the fridge and give it a good stir before serving.

2. Can I use water instead of milk?
While you can use water, using milk gives the pudding a creamier texture and richer flavor. Plant-based milks like almond, coconut, or oat work wonderfully in this recipe.

3. What can I use if I don’t have matcha powder?
If you don’t have matcha powder, you can leave it out and make plain chia pudding. You can also substitute with a teaspoon of cacao powder for a chocolate version.

4. How can I make this recipe keto-friendly?
Simply use an unsweetened milk option and a low-carb sweetener like stevia or erythritol to keep it keto-friendly.

 

 

OTHER RECIPES YOU MIGHT LIKE:

I hope you enjoyed this recipe! Let me know if you decide to try it out and don’t forget to send me your #Lifestylemartina creations.

Pumpkin Spice Granola (Vegan, GF, DF)

Healthy dairy-free matcha pannacotta 

My goal is to get you to cook and experiment in the kitchen, even if you are not an expert. If you would like to get to know me more, follow me on instagram : Lifestylemartina . Looking forward to seeing you there!

If you enjoyed this recipe, please let me know in the comments below

With love, Martina