Instant Chia Chocolate Pudding, 17 grams protein, 174 calories

Dessert and Snack, Pack-a-Punch Lunch for post-op bariatric weight loss surgery protein meals, Soy Recipes

IMG_2651Chia seeds are loaded with nutrients with very few calories. All the carbs are actually from fiber, and most of the fats are Omega-3s.  Chia is a true superfood all in a tiny seed, packed with antioxidants: Fiber, Protein, Omega-3’s, Calcium, Manganese, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Zinc, Vitamin B3 (Niacin), Potassium, Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) and Vitamin B2.

Look for brands that have even more protein, such as Tresomega Organic @ 3 grams per tablespoon (used in this recipe). Chia seeds can be added to your baking for added protein, or sprinkled into yogurt as a crunchy topping. In this recipe, no starch or dairy is used for the pudding, and the seeds make the liquid congeal after a few hours in the fridge.

Ingredients:

  • ½ cup Chia Seeds  (24g, 480c)
  • 1 cup soymilk (10g, 140c)
  • 2 Tablespoons Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (28c)
  • 2 packets artificial sweetener
  • 1 teaspoon instant coffee
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions:

Nuke in microwave for 20 seconds. Mix mixture well.  Nuke for another 20 seconds and mix, making sure the coffee has dissolved.  Refrigerate for three hours or overnight.

Yields: 2 pudding cups, 4 ounces each,  17 grams protein, 174 calories