Real Food Friday: Overnight Cherry-Chia Pudding
Cherry season.
Fruits and vegetables in the Okanagan are about four weeks early this year because of this stellar weather we have been having. This can be a little concerning as we are an area that known for agressive forest fires, and usually we rely on a decent amount of June rain to slow the chance of fires and subsequent fire bans. The upside is that we already have local cherries in season, and cherries are one of my most favorite of all fruits. They are such a treat because you reallly cannot find them in the off season as they do not transport well.
Cherries are not only delicious, they have many health benefits:
Cherries are loaded with antioxidants, which work to fight free radicals in your body helping to prevent cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Their high water content (75%) makes they hydrating and a great aid in weight loss.
At 3g of fibre per serving, they help to add bulk to stool as well as slow down the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream, so that you avoid the blood sugar spike.
Cherries contain boron, which helps increase bone health when consumed in conjunction with magnesium and calcium.
The phytochemicals in cherries have been known to reduce inflammation causing enzymes, easing pain of arthritis, gout and other injuries.
They are high in potassium, helping to regulate blood pressure, lower the risk of hypertension.
They are low glycemic, helping to reduce chances of diabetes.
Healthy. Tasty. What more can you ask for? So get out and by some local cherries and eat them up. Be warned though, when you eat cherries in large quantities they can cause loose bowel movements, as they are very high in water and fibre.
Overnight Cherry-Chia Pudding
(modified from the Joyous Health cookbook)
Ingredients:
1 banana
2 1/2 cups fresh or frozen cherries ( or mix cherries and strawberries)
1 cup coconut or almond milk
3/4 cup chia seeds
1 tsp vanilla extract
Some chopped fresh cherries for garnish
OPTIONAL: I added pumpkin seeds and hemp hearts to my bowl, feel free to add whatever you would enjoy with this dish.
Preparation:
In a food processor, combine banana, cherries, milk, chia seeds and vanilla. Process until ingredients are totally combined. Transfer to a bowl, cover and refrigerate overnight. Serve in bowls topped with fresh cherries, and whatever else your heart desires.
Seasonally yours,
Cayla Lou