Pomegranate milkshake with chia seeds

In my quest towards finding a perfect breakfast for my son I do a lot of research. The mother in me always tells me that none of the recipes has just the right kind of nutrients for my prince. The following recipe is one of my mix and match attempts to make a tasty, easy and nutrient packed breakfast.

Pomegranate Milkshake is the best way to add pomegranate in the diet of babies and kids. Even my lazy husband does not eat pomegranate because of the seeds. In this situation a pomegranate milkshake is very handy.

Chia seeds have become one of the most popular super foods in the health community. They are easy to digest when prepared properly, and are a very versatile ingredient that adds easily to recipes. Aztec warriors ate chia seeds to give them high energy and endurance.  They said just 1 spoonful of chia could sustain them for 24 hours.  Chia means “strength” in the Mayan language. The reason Chia seeds are so beneficial is due to them being rich in fiber, omega-3 fats, protein, vitamins and minerals.

Health benefits of Pomegranate are as follows:

1. Has more antioxidants than even green tea.
2. High in Vitamin C
3. High amount of Vitamin B5 and K
4. Does not contain cholesterol
5. It has very less calories
6. Seeds contain high amount of fiber.
7. Protects heart
8. Good for anemic people
9. Smoothens blood circulation
10. For Pregnant ladies - It Increases blood flow to the baby, reduce cramps and sleeping difficulties.

Without boring you further with benefits let me describe how I made it. One good thing about this recipe is, pomegranate has natural sweetness. You can even avoid adding sugar/honey to the milkshake if you are calorie conscious or have sugar related issues.

Preparation Time: - 10 min

Cooking Time: - 5 min

Servings: - 2~3 persons

Ingredients:-

1. 3 medium sized Pomegranates
2. 1 cup (200 gm) Milk
3. 4~5 almonds
4. 2 tsp chia seeds
5. 1 tbsp Honey

Preparation:-

1. Soak the chia seeds for about 5-10 minutes just prior to blending.
2. Deseed the pomegranate and keep aside.
   
3. Grind pomegranate pearls (seeds) in a Mixer and using a mesh strainer, strain the pomegranate juice into a bowl.
4. Now add the pomegranate, ½ cup milk, almond and Honey in the blender. Blend them for 30 seconds
   
5. Now pour the remaining milk and chia seeds in the blender and blend them for 1 min.
   

Now the pomegranate milkshake or smoothie is ready. Refrigerate and serve chilled.

You can have it as breakfast smoothie or as an aid to snacks.

As always please feel free to comment, criticize and seek if any help is required. I am all ears.