Chia seeds are family members of the mint family. Their scientific name is Salvia Hispanica, and they are found in the southern side of America. However, their consumption and usage are spread over the whole of America because of their diverse use and unique nutty flavor.
Their long shelf life makes them even more demanded because chia seeds rarely go bad. You can find more information about chia seeds in their respective shelf life section titled Do Chia seeds go bad. Chia seeds can also be used in low-carb chips and keto chips.
Why Should You Soak Chia Seeds?
Chia seeds can be enjoyed in several different things and different ways. However, chia seeds can also be a major hazard to life if not consumed properly. The main reason for that is the risk of choking that accompanies them.
Chia seeds can absorb up to seven times their weight of water. If these aren’t soaked before consumption, you could very well choke and have indigestion problems. Imagine TENS of these seeds expanding inside your belly, absorbing all of the moisture.
Chia seeds also develop this mushy outer covering that prevents the inner seed from deteriorating quickly. Now, if you put them un-soaked into your belly, you are asking for indigestion. Soaking chia seeds allow them to become digestible and tastier.
How to Soak Chia Seeds
Soaking chia seeds is pretty easy, depending on the recipe that you want to follow. Normally people use water to soak these seeds, but sometimes people use almond milk or other substitutes. All of these mediums allow the seeds to develop differently with different textures.
Depending on the recipe that you are following, you will need different materials. Some people just put them in water and eat them afterward. Others put them in milk and other goody liquids to turn them into tasty condiments.
Soaking Chia Seeds in Water
Water is by far the simple and most efficient soaking medium for chia seeds. You mix chia seeds with water in a bowl. The important thing here is to understand that chia seeds need to be mixed in a ratio of 1 to 10.
Putting in too little water could make it a gluey mess, and too much water could make it too watery. Putting in a cup of water for each teaspoon of chia seeds is recommended.
Soaking Chia Seeds in Almond Milk
Soaking chia seeds in almond milk is pretty much the same as the water soaking method. You get some tasty almond milk and pour some chia seeds in. The ratio of almond milk to chia seeds is slightly different than water because of the difference in viscosity.
Every one-fourth cup of chia seeds should have one cup of almond milk poured in. You should let the seeds soak in the almond milk for at least 20 minutes, just like the water.
How Long To Soak Chia Seeds
Chia seeds absorb all sorts of liquids quite rapidly, so you won’t have to wait for them a long time. Normally letting them soak for a period of 20 minutes to 120 minutes is more than enough. During this time, your chia seeds will expand to their maximum size, ready for consumption.
For thicker and more viscous liquids like milk or almond milk, we recommend soaking them for more than 40 minutes. After the soaking period is over, you can consume them as you see fit. Some people turn them into delicious puddings while others just drink them.
Can You Soak Chia Seeds Overnight?
Yes, practically, chia seeds can be soaked for up to five days or even six days if refrigerated. Soaking them and keeping them in warm conditions is not ideal since it will ruin their taste and texture. However, we would like to clarify that you don’t need to soak chia seeds for more than a few hours.
How to Soak Chia Seeds Fast
Finding a way to soak your chia seeds quickly is useless because chia seeds hardly take 30 minutes to soak up. Irrespective of the medium, you can take your chia seeds and consume them after 40 minutes. There is no need quicker method than the usual method used to soak chia seeds.
If you want to enjoy chia seeds in processed foods without exerting any effort, then get some Late July Sweet Potato Chips. We also have a healthy breakfast choice for you named Lakanto Cinnamon Almond Crunch Granola Vegan Cereal. It includes chia seeds and a lot of good veggies that are a delight when it comes to taste.
Sources
- Kitchen Accessory Buying Guides
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- Does Food Go Bad Articles
- Food Comparison Articles
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- How Long Can Food Sit Out Articles
- How To Defrost Food Articles
- How To Reheat Food Articles
- How To Soak Food Articles
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