Cha-cha-cha-chia! I've talked about the wonders of chia seeds before and the pebbled little seeds truly are little nutrient-rich powerhouses. Over the last year, I've grown to be completely obsessed with adore beverages capable of levitating the seeds and infusing them with flavor. Since said beverages cost between $4 and $5 a pop, I figured it was about time I gave homemade chia levitation a whirl.
If you haven't experienced hydrated chia seeds, take a moment to enlighten yourselves with their textural surprises and energizing properties. Upon first sip of a chia-infused drink, you may think to yourself, "This is odd but addictive." or "What the heck is going on?" or maybe even a "What the #$@%?!" after spitting out that first sip. But I promise you, you'll go back for more. You'll find yourself tangled in a love affair with a silly, seedy beverage that will collect puzzled stares from those around you more efficiently than you hoarded collected pogs and slammers circa 1996.
My mom has been making strawberry-basil infused water for the past couple of years and it's the most simple, refreshing and elegant non-adult beverage I've ever tasted. And if you're currently terrified of my chia proposition, start with plain strawberry-basil water; you will not be disappointed. However, if you're ready to get a little crazy, consider chia-fying yourself. Since chia seeds hold 9-12 times their weight in water and become gelatinous in response, they are great for rehydrating after an intense workout and also help to swiftly guide toxins through your system. And, seriously, it's just downright fun to drink these little things.
- 1 cup quartered fresh strawberries
- ½ cup chopped fresh basil
- 8-10 cups water
- ¼ cup chia seeds
- 1 cup water
- 1 - 3 tablespoons agave nectar, depending on desired sweetness
- Add strawberries, basil and water to a large glass pitcher. Pop in fridge overnight.
- Strain off strawberries and basil OR transfer water to a spouted jug (if you opt to keep strawberries and basil in, you'll want to drink the fresca through a straw).
- In a small bowl, mix chia seeds, water and agave nectar. Let stand for 10-15 minutes. Add to strawberry-basil flavored water and stir vigorously to separate chia seeds.
- Store water in fridge for up to 3 days.
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Celeste Jackson says
Good idea! great photo's