Thirty years ago a “hairy” green Chia Pet sheep adorned my kitchen windowsill for a season. Since then chia seeds have come a long, long way!
Thousands of years ago, chia seed was a staple in the diets of ancient Mesoamericans. Aztec warriors ate them for energy and stamina. Modern day atheletes still use chia seeds as a favorite endurance enhancing superfood.
Chia seeds are an excellent source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, with a whopping 10 grams of fiber per ounce (a little less than 3 tablespoons). They are also high in omega-3 fatty acids, calcium and phosphorus. Just a sprinkle will increase the nutritional value of any food, and their mild, nutty flavor goes well with all kinds of dishes, both sweet and savory. Try adding them to your cereal, yogurt or salad.
Chia seeds will absorb up to ten times their weight in water. Try chef Chelsea’s Favorite Chia Pudding (recipe below) or make up your own version using the same proportions of “milk” to chia seeds.
Another superfood for modern life is the acai berry, full of dietary fiber, omega fatty acids and polyphenols. At NP we carry this Amazon superfruit in a freeze dried powdered form. Nourish your modern life by adding Organic Acai Powder to smoothies, desserts, yogurt and granola (see recipe below).
Let the power of these superfoods put a spring in your step!
LOCAL FOOD ARTISANS
CALIFIA FARMS
Califia Farms is a vegan milk company based in Bakersfield whose mission is “to bring you delicious and mindful nourishment through California-grown fruits and nuts.” Their almond milk beverages are all non-GMO, soy-free, gluten free, and carrageenan free.
Plant based milks are being consumed regularly by vegetarians and omnivores alike. Reasons for this trend include better taste, a more healthful product, and a more sustainable product.
Almondmilk is great both as a beverage and for cooking. Use the same amounts as dairy milk. Here at NP we have Califia Almondmilk products available for sale in the refrigerated case, and for making Espresso Drinks in the deli.