Chia seeds, also known simply as chia, are small, oval-shaped seeds with a grayish color, grown from the Salvia hispanica plant. These seeds have become highly popular in healthy eating and are considered a superfood due to their high nutritional value and beneficial properties.
Chia seeds are rich in antioxidants, essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as vitamins, including Vitamins A, C, E, and B-complex. They are also an excellent source of plant-based proteins and dietary fibers. Chia is renowned for its unique gelling properties, where it forms a thick gel-like mixture when mixed with regular or plant-based liquids. This makes chia an ideal ingredient for thick smoothies, puddings, desserts, and pancakes.
Chia seeds are also a wonderful addition to cereals, yogurts, salads, bread, and baked goods. They can even be used as an egg substitute in vegan recipes due to their gelling properties.
