What is all this hype about Chia Seeds?

I was wondering and decided to give them a shot!

First a little background on exactly what these mysterious seeds are.

Chia is an edible seed that comes from the desert plant Salvia hispanica, grown in Mexico dating back to Mayan and Aztec cultures. “Chia” means strength, and folklore has it that these cultures used the tiny black and white seeds as an energy booster. Chia seeds are a concentrated food containing healthy omega-3 fatty acids, carbohydrates, protein, fiber, antioxidants, and calcium.

Chia seeds are an unprocessed, whole-grain food that can be absorbed by the body as seeds (unlike flax seeds). One ounce (about 2 tablespoons) contains 139 calories, 4 grams of protein, 9 grams fat, 12 grams carbohydrates and 11 grams of fiber, plus vitamins and minerals.

Coconut Mango Mint Chia Pudding

• 1 can coconut milk or 2 cups of coconut milk beverage ( if using canned coconut milk add a half can of water to recipe)
• 1/2 cup of Chia seeds
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

For topping

• 1 fresh ripe mango sliced thinly and roughly chopped
• a few sprigs of fresh mint sliced thinly

Directions

1. Mix first four ingredients in a mason jar or medium sized bowl with lid. I used a 4 cup measuring cup and wrapped it with plastic wrap. Once combined refrigerate for at least an hour, Chia seeds will swell and soak up most of the moisture, becoming a pudding like consistency.
2. Serve chilled and spoon desired amount into a bowl and top with mango slices and mint.

* source from WebMd