Shrikhand Chia Pudding (High Protein)

Serves 2 People

Shrikhand is a traditional Indian yoghurt-based dessert that’s known for its creamy texture and spiced, sweet flavours. This Shrikhand-inspired chia pudding takes all the goodness of the classic dessert and turns it into a healthy, plant-based treat that’s perfect for both breakfast or dessert.

With a base of chia seeds, hemp seeds, and plant-based protein powder, this pudding is packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and anti-inflammatory benefits. Chia seeds and flax seeds are not only rich in protein but also high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are fantastic for brain health and reducing inflammation.

The natural flavours of cardamom, cinnamon, and saffron give this chia pudding a unique and aromatic twist, reminiscent of the warm spices found in traditional Shrikhand. Whether you're batch cooking for the week ahead or enjoying it fresh, this chia pudding is super versatile. If you prefer to avoid plant-based protein powder, simply add an extra tablespoon of hemp seeds, and adjust the plant milk by reducing it to 1 cup for the perfect consistency.

With the added spiced yoghurt topping and fresh fruit garnishes, this dish is as nourishing as it is delicious. Plus, it’s easy to make in advance, so you can have a nutritious breakfast or dessert ready to go anytime.

Ingredients

For the chia pudding

1/4 cup chia seeds

1 and a ¼ cup unsweetened soy milk

1 scoop unsweetened or vanilla flavoured plant-based protein powder (30 grams)

1 tbsp hemp seeds

8-10 strands of saffron (optional)

1/2 tsp cardamom powder

1/2 tsp cinnamon powder

1/4 tsp turmeric

2-3 soft dates

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

For the Spiced Yogurt Topping

1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based yogurt (soy or almond-based for higher protein)

1/4 tsp cardamom powder

1/4 tsp cinnamon

1 tbsp chopped pistachios or almonds

2 tsps. maple syrup (optional)

Optional Toppings

Fresh mango cubes, pomegranate seeds or any fresh fruits

Toasted coconut flakes

Chopped nuts

Method

Blend the Chia Pudding

1. In a blender, add chia seeds, saffron strands, soy milk, hemp seeds, cardamom, cinnamon, turmeric, dates, vanilla and salt.

2. Blend until completely smooth and creamy

3. Let it sit for 5 minutes, then blend again if needed for a smoother texture.

4. Transfer to a bowl or jar and refrigerate for at 10 minutes to thicken

   
   

Make the Spiced Yoghurt Topping & Assemble the Pudding

1. In a small bowl, mix plant-based yoghurt, cardamom, cinnamon, chopped nuts and maple syrup.

2. Once the chia pudding has set, divide into two bowls and top each bowl with half the spiced yoghurt.

3. Garnish with fresh fruit, toasted coconut and extra nuts if desired.

   
   
   
   

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION: Each serving contains 351 calories, 16 grams of protein, 29.5 grams of carbohydrates and 15.8 grams of fat.

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