Spring weather is finally here after getting a rocky, up-and-down start! Matcha is served in so many was and has so many touted health benefits. It is a fine powder that is carefully grown in a lengthy process. The plants are covered and shade-grown for a couple weeks before the leaves are harvested, steamed, dried and aged, then ground. This process creates a unique taste and more caffeine is produced by the plant.

When we looked at recipes to try, chia seed pudding jumped out at us. It can be a dessert or a healthy breakfast. This is also a very simple recipe that you can adjust based on taste or dietary restrictions. You can use healthy alternatives for milk (we used half & half) and alternatives for sugar. The pudding was refreshing and light and we hope to hear how your versions turn out!

Ingredients:

• 5 Tbsp chia seeds
• 1 tsp matcha powder
• Sweetener to taste
• 2 cups milk (dairy or non-dairy)
• ½ tsp vanilla extract

*optional: 15 drops almond extract

Directions:

1. In a container with a water-tight lid add all the ingredients, cover, and shake hard.
2. Refrigerate for a half hour and shake again. Refrigerate overnight.
3. Serve and enjoy!

*Based on this recipe: https://dessertswithbenefits.com/healthy-matcha-green-tea-chia-seed-pudding/