Chia Seed Tapioca Pudding

This is such a simple, tasty and healthy recipe that is 

 gluten/dairy/grain-free and a hit with the kids and entire family! This qualifies as a paleo dessert if you are following this sort of diet. High in fiber, omegas and moderate protein from the chia seeds, this is both a wonderful dessert OR mid-day snack.

1 can coconut milk (or 2 cups of milk substitute such as almond milk - omit coconut water in this case)

1 cup coconut water

1/2 cup chia seeds

1 tsp vanilla

2 Tbsp Honey (or sweeten to taste)

option - grate peel of 1/2 lemon

Mix in a glass bowl and refrigerate at least 4 hrs or overnight. Serve topped with fruit if desired!

Enjoy!

Power Seeds for the whole family!

I recently started using what I call 'Power Seeds' as part of my regular breakfast, and I add it to my children's breakfast as well. To make this grain-free omega-3 rich nutrition booster, you'll need the following:

Chia seeds

-Equal parts ground flax seed, hemp hearts and chia seeds-raisins, coconut flakes (whatever you like, roughly 1/4 - 1/2 cup each) -2 tsp cinnamon

Mix all those ingredients in a 1 L Mason jar and keep in the fridge. You can add 2 Tbsp into your oatmeal OR cover in almond milk and let stand 2 min (it will thicken) and eat for a grain-free cereal option! The hemp hearts make this meal high in protein in iron as well, and the fiber from all three seed varieties is very high! This mixture will keep you full and satisfied. I also add this mix to my kids oatmeal, yogurt and salads. Enjoy!

Cinnamon Buns

I recently came across a cinnamon bun recipe in a magazine, and tailored it to up the fiber. These came out great, and were even gobbled up by my husband who supposedly 'doesn't like cinnamon buns'. Kids LOVED them, and they are low in sugar, so they make a great snack. You can even play around with the type of flour you use - next time i'll try spelt and buckwheat I think. These are great to have on a cold day!

Cinnamon Buns

Dough:

2.5 cups Whole Wheat flour

1 cup whole oats

¼ cup ground flax seeds

1 TBSP baking powder

½ tsp salt

¼ cup brown sugar

½ cup cold butter

1 tsp cinnamon

1 cup almond milk (or other milk alternative)

Filling:

¼ cup brown sugar

4 TBSP melted butter

1 tsp cinnamon

1 cup raisins or mix of chopped dried fruit

½ cup chopped pecans (optional)

Mix dry ingredients together. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Add milk (may need to add a few more TBSP. if it’s too dry). Transfer to floured surface. Knead with floured hands gently until it’s pliable. With a floured rolling pin (or hands) work into a 10x16 inch rectangle. Spread the topping over entire surface except a 1 inch border along the length. Roll into a long log, sealing the seam. With serrated knife cut into 1 inch rolls. Transfer each roll (lay flat) to a buttered 8 inch square pan. Bake at 400 for 40 min.