SunLive Competition

Chia seeds are renowned for their nutritional value. They contain the highest-known combined source of omega 3, protein, fibre and antioxidants. These essential nutrients are often missing from modern diets. Chia seeds have a pleasant mild taste, are gluten free, and a fantastic vegetarian source of protein. 

Every Chia seed contains 36 per cent fibre, 20 per cent omega 3 and 20.4 per cent protein. No wonder it is referred to as ‘nature’s complete superfood’.

The easiest way to incorporate Chia into your daily diet is to sprinkle it onto foods such as cereal, salads or smoothies, and it can be added to lots of recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner, baking and snacks.

The origins of Chia can be traced back more than 3000 years to the Aztec and Mayan civilizations of Central America which used Chia as a food source.

Chia’s product range includes Chia ground seed, Chia oil, Chia Bran and Chia white and black seeds. Retail stockists can be found on www.thechiaco.com.au/content/retail-stockists.

Try this recipe using Chia Bran:

Spiced Sweet Potato and Lentil Dip

Ingredients

(Makes four cups)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 onion, chopped

2 teaspoons ground cumin

¼ teaspoon dried chilli flakes

180 red lentils, washed

270g sweet potato, peeled and diced

650ml vegetable stock

1 tablespoon of Chia Bran

½ cup natural yoghurt

¼ cup coriander

1 tablespoon White Chia Seed (optional)

Method

1. Heat oil in medium saucepan. Saute onion for two minutes. Add spices and continue to sauté for another minute.
2. Add lentils, sweet potato and vegetable stock and bring to a simmer. Cover and allow to simmer for 15-20 minutes until sweet potato is tender. Stir frequently.
3. Remove from heat. Stir in Chia Bran and allow to cool. Mash with a fork to create a slightly chunky dip.
4. Stir in yoghurt and coriander. Garnish with a sprinkle of White Chia Seed. Serve with crispy pita bread wedges.

If you have a product that you would like me to feature and review please email claire@thesun.co.nz

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Competition Results

Rhonda Rickard
Bethlehem