Tropical Chia Seed Pudding with Mango & Coconut Milk

I’ve been eating chia seeds for a while now, tossing a couple of tablespoons into my bottled water for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up whenever I feel my energy levels beginning to slump.

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Tropical chia seed pudding with mango and coconut milk is a delightful and nutritious treat that's perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a healthy snack. The combination of chia seeds, creamy coconut milk, and sweet mango creates a flavorful pudding that is both satisfying and refreshing. Here's a simple recipe for making this tropical chia seed pudding.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (13.5 ounces) full-fat coconut milk
• 1/2 cup chia seeds
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large ripe mango, peeled and diced
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut (unsweetened)
• Fresh mint leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chia Pudding: In a large bowl or container with a lid, combine the coconut milk, chia seeds, maple syrup or honey, and vanilla extract. Stir well to ensure the chia seeds are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

2. Refrigerate to Set: Cover the bowl or container with a lid and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight. This allows the chia seeds to absorb the coconut milk and thicken into a pudding-like consistency. Stir occasionally during the first hour to prevent clumping.

3. Prepare the Mango and Coconut: While the pudding is setting, dice the mango into small pieces. You can also toast the shredded coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes until lightly golden, if desired. This adds extra flavor and texture to the pudding.

4. Assemble the Pudding: Once the chia pudding has set, give it a good stir. Spoon the chia pudding into serving bowls or glasses. Top with the diced mango and a sprinkle of shredded coconut. Garnish with fresh mint leaves if desired.

5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the tropical chia seed pudding chilled, and enjoy! You can store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

This tropical chia seed pudding is a versatile and healthy treat. You can customize it by adding other fruits like pineapple or passionfruit, or by mixing in some nuts or seeds for extra crunch. If you'd like more chia seed recipes or tropical-inspired desserts, I can suggest other ideas. Enjoy your chia seed pudding!