Tag: Baking with chia

According to research published in the journal *Food Science and Technology*, chia seeds are surprisingly heat-stable, allowing their nutrients to survive moderate temperatures. This means you can absolutely cook chia seeds in the oven, incorporating them into a variety of baked goods for a nutritional boost.

Chia seeds, renowned for their incredible health benefits, are a powerhouse of nutrients, but when they're exposed to heat, some key components are altered. While moderate heating can enhance flavor and make them more palatable for some, high temperatures can cause a reduction in their delicate Omega-3 fatty acid content. This guide explores the complete journey of what happens if we heat chia seeds, from light toasting to high-temperature baking.

According to Harvard Health, a single ounce of chia seeds provides nearly 10 grams of dietary fiber, making it an excellent source. Knowing this, it's no surprise that the nutritional value of chia bread far surpasses that of standard loaves, offering a host of health benefits beyond simple carbohydrates.

Unlike flax seeds, you do not need to grind chia seeds to get all their nutritional benefits. The outer shell of a chia seed is delicate and easily breaks down when exposed to moisture, making the nutrients available. However, there are still compelling reasons to consider grinding them, depending on your health goals and culinary applications.