Meet our newest guest blogger Karen! Using Chia Gel in fresh juice.

 

Meet our newest guest blogger Karen!  

I’m a healthy eater!  This is what I’ve thought for many years, back when I first learned about trans-fats and thought that was not something I wanted in my body.  It’s interesting how the definition of “healthy” changes as you continue to learn.  It’s a health journey and you take it in steps.

Now I’m tip-toeing into juicing, and experimenting with alternatives to soy, dairy, and gluten.  There is so much conflicting information, except that organic from the-ground foods are going to make you feel good.

Using Chia Gel in fresh juices:

One of the challenges with juicing is that despite all its benefits, it does require some work to wash, chop, and clean up…for just a little fresh juice!  To improve its nutrition and make the juice thicker, I use chia gel in all my juices. Chia gel is so simple; it’s just chia seeds and water!  There are two fast ways to use chia gel in your juice.   The first is to place a teaspoon of chia seeds in the bottom of your glass, and cover it with 2 tablespoons of water.  You can eyeball it—it’s very forgiving.  Let it sit while you prep your veggies, and it’ll be ready to use when you’re done juicing.

The alternative is to prepare your chia gel in advance.  You can add it to soups, puddings, smoothies, as an egg replacer in baked goods, or even in your drinking water.   Stir before you drink to break up any clumps.    A tablespoon of gel per 8 ounces of water is plenty.  Chia offers protein, fiber, and calcium.

Chia Gel

4 T organic chia seeds (white or black)

2 cups water

Mix chia seeds and water in a lidded glass jar.  Seal and store in the refrigerator.   It will be ready in about 15 minutes, and can be stored for up to a week.