Janmashtami is celebrated with great enthusiasm across India, and no celebration is complete without delicious food and sweets. If you are looking for a healthier dessert option this festive season, chia seed pudding is a simple and tasty choice.
Made with plant-based milk, fresh watermelon, chia seeds and a natural sweetener, this vegan dessert requires just a few ingredients and no cooking. It can be enjoyed as a breakfast, snack or light festive treat.
Ingredients
- ½ cup coconut milk
- ½ cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 cup watermelon, cut into cubes
- 1 tablespoon pure maple syrup
- ¼ cup whole chia seeds
For topping:
- Fresh fruits of your choice
- Coconut flakes
- Nuts or seeds, if desired
How to Make Chia Seed Pudding
- Blend the watermelon, coconut milk and almond milk until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into a large bowl or glass container.
- Add the chia seeds and maple syrup and mix well.
- Let the mixture sit for about three minutes, then whisk again to prevent the chia seeds from clumping.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least one hour or overnight.
- Before serving, top with fresh berries, banana, apple, orange or other fruits. You can also add coconut flakes, nuts, hemp seeds, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds or raisins.
Is Chia Seed Pudding Healthy?
Chia seeds are packed with nutrients and are a good source of fibre, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, phosphorus and antioxidants. They also contain calcium, iron, niacin and thiamine.
Adding watermelon gives the pudding a naturally refreshing flavour and provides lycopene, an antioxidant. Plant-based milk such as almond or coconut milk can also be used to keep the recipe dairy-free.
What Sweetener Can You Use?
Maple syrup is a simple natural sweetener for chia pudding. Honey can also be used if you are not following a strictly vegan diet. You can adjust the sweetness according to your preference.
The recipe is highly versatile—you can experiment with different fruits, flavours, nuts and seeds to create your own version.
With its creamy texture, refreshing watermelon flavour and easy preparation, this chia seed pudding can be a delicious addition to your Janmashtami celebrations.