Assalamu Alaikum, my lovely readers! Ramadan Mubarak to you all! It’s Shahena here, your British Bengali mum of four from London, back with another quick and wholesome recipe that’s perfect for Iftar. Today, I’m sharing one of my go-to healthy desserts – Chia Seed Pudding. It’s creamy, delicious, and packed with nutrients, making it the perfect way to end your Iftar meal on a sweet but healthy note.
Now, I know chia seeds might sound a bit fancy, but trust me, this recipe couldn’t be simpler. With just a few ingredients and a bit of patience (okay, mostly just waiting for the chia seeds to work their magic), you can create a dessert that’s not only good for you but also feels indulgent. Plus, it’s a great way to get the kids to eat something nutritious without any fuss. Even my little ones love it – and that’s saying something!
Chia Seed Pudding Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 4)
- 1/2 cup chia seeds
- 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based – I love using almond or oat milk)
- 2-3 tbsp honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, but adds a lovely flavour)
- A pinch of salt
Toppings (optional but highly recommended!):
- Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries)
- Sliced bananas
- A handful of chopped nuts (almonds, pistachios, or walnuts)
- A sprinkle of desiccated coconut
- A drizzle of honey or nut butter
Method
- Mix the base ingredients:
In a large bowl or jug, combine the chia seeds, milk, honey (or maple syrup), vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Give it a good stir to make sure everything is well mixed. - Let it set:
Cover the mixture and pop it in the fridge for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight. The chia seeds will absorb the liquid and turn into a creamy, pudding-like consistency. Give it a stir every now and then if you remember (I often forget, and it still turns out fine!). - Serve and top:
Once the pudding has set, give it a good stir to break up any clumps. Spoon it into serving bowls or glasses and add your favourite toppings. Fresh berries, sliced bananas, and a sprinkle of nuts are my go-to, but feel free to get creative! - Enjoy:
Dive in and enjoy this creamy, healthy treat as a dessert or even as a light Suhoor option.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for Iftar
- Light and refreshing: After a day of fasting, this pudding is gentle on the stomach and incredibly satisfying.
- Packed with nutrients: Chia seeds are a great source of fibre, protein, and omega-3s, making this pudding both delicious and nutritious.
- Customisable: You can switch up the flavours and toppings to suit your taste – it’s a dessert that never gets boring!
Tips and Tricks
- Make it ahead: This pudding keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet pudding, reduce the amount of honey or maple syrup. You can always add a drizzle on top before serving.
- Kid-friendly: Let the kids choose their own toppings – it’s a fun way to get them excited about eating something healthy.
A Little Note from Me
This chia seed pudding has become a Ramadan staple in our house. It’s the perfect way to end an Iftar meal – light, satisfying, and full of goodness. Plus, it’s so versatile that you can enjoy it in so many ways. Sometimes, I even have it for Suhoor with a handful of granola mixed in for an extra energy boost!
I hope you and your family enjoy this recipe as much as we do. Let me know how it turns out, and if you have any special twists you like to add. Wishing you all a blessed Ramadan filled with love, peace, and plenty of delicious Iftar meals.
Much love,
Shahena 💕
P.S. Don’t forget to save some for Suhoor – it’s just as good the next morning! 😉