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Transform your morning routine with this nutrient-packed, visually stunning chia pudding that combines the earthiness of beets with sweet strawberries. The natural sweetness of roasted beets enhances the berry flavors while creating an impressive pink hue that makes breakfast feel special. Each spoonful delivers a perfect balance of creamy pudding, tender fruit, and the subtle pop of chia seeds.
While developing this recipe in my test kitchen, I discovered that steaming beets until fork-tender, rather than boiling or roasting, preserves their vibrant color and natural sweetness without adding excess moisture to the pudding.
Essential Ingredients Selection Tips
- Chia Seeds: Choose organic black or white seeds, ensuring they're fresh for maximum gel formation.
- Non-dairy Milk: Full-fat coconut milk creates the creamiest texture and richest mouthfeel.
- Beets: Select medium-sized beets with firm, smooth skin and fresh-looking greens.
- Strawberries: Fresh berries in peak season or frozen wild strawberries for intense flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure extract enhances natural sweetness better than artificial.
- Maple Syrup: Grade B offers deeper flavor than Grade A.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Beet Preparation Technique:
- Begin with fresh, firm beets, scrubbing thoroughly under cool water. Trim stems leaving one inch attached to prevent color bleeding. Steam over rapidly boiling water in a covered basket for precisely 30 minutes, checking tenderness with a knife at 25 minutes. Cool just until handleable, then peel under running water using gentle pressure from your thumbs.
- Chia Seed Preparation:
- Measure chia seeds precisely, using 3 tablespoons per cup of liquid. Whisk seeds into blended mixture immediately to prevent clumping. Stir again after 10 minutes to break up any clusters, ensuring even distribution and proper gel formation.
- Liquid Base Creation:
- Combine cooled, diced beets with fresh strawberries and coconut milk in high-speed blender. Process for 2-3 minutes until completely smooth. Strain through fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining pulp for silkiest texture.
- Perfect Pudding Assembly:
- Pour liquid over whisked chia seeds in 1:3 ratio. Stir thoroughly for 2 minutes, ensuring no seeds stick to bottom or sides. Rest 10 minutes, stir again, then cover and refrigerate 4-5 hours or overnight.
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Growing up in a health-focused household, my mother taught me that adding a pinch of sea salt enhances the natural sweetness of beets while balancing flavors perfectly.
Topping Variations
Create texture contrast with sprouted buckwheat, hemp seeds, or crushed pistachios. Add fresh fruit like pomegranate arils or sliced figs for seasonal appeal.
Storage and Serving Techniques
Store in airtight glass containers up to 4 days. Before serving, let stand 5 minutes at room temperature. Stir gently to redistribute ingredients and adjust consistency with a splash of milk if needed.
Nutritional Benefits
Beta-carotene and betalains from beets provide anti-inflammatory properties. Chia seeds deliver omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and protein. Strawberries add vitamin C and antioxidants for immune support.
Temperature Considerations
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Serve chilled but not ice-cold to experience full flavor complexity. Add toppings just before serving to maintain their texture. For meal prep, store toppings separately.
After countless mornings perfecting this recipe, I've discovered the magic lies in proper ingredient ratios and patience during preparation. This pudding has become my go-to breakfast, offering sustained energy and satisfaction throughout the morning.
Perfect Pairings
Serve alongside warm herbal tea or golden milk latte. For brunch, pair with savory avocado toast or fresh granola for textural contrast.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can you taste the beets?
- No, strawberries and vanilla mask the beet flavor while keeping the nutrients.
- → What milk works best?
- Any non-dairy milk works - almond, oat, or coconut are popular choices.
- → Can I prep this ahead?
- Yes, keeps well in fridge for 3-4 days.
- → Why add chia seeds?
- They provide protein, fiber and create pudding-like texture.
- → Can I skip the maple syrup?
- Yes, the natural sweetness from fruits may be enough.