Upgrade Recipes: 5 BEST Substitutes for Chia Seeds

Apart from being popularly used in edibles, Chia Seeds is an excellent medicinal herb.

These seeds were cultivated intensively by the Aztecs, and their origins trace back to Mexico.

Chia Seeds are also popular in many South American countries like Bolivia, Nicaragua, Guatemala, Argentina, and Ecuador.

Did you know that you can add Chia Seeds in many items such as juice, smoothies, puddings, cereal, salad, water, baked goods, and more?

So, what are the best substitutes for chia seeds? They include sesame seeds, flaxseeds, oat bran, Quinoa, and psyllium husks.

The 5 Best Substitutes For Chia Seeds

Let’s get into the top chia seeds alternatives available for you today:

1 – Sesame Seeds

Do you have trouble locating chia seeds near your area? Well, you can always substitute it with sesame seeds.

You may not know this fact, but sesame seeds are much older than chia seeds when it comes to their use history.

You can use it for both baking and cooking, making them very convenient.

Sesame seeds blend really well with both sweet and salty dishes.

You can include them in granolas, smoothies, salads, and so much more.

Plus, they are much cheaper than chia seeds.

Substitute Ratio – Since they are a little stronger in taste in comparison to the chia seeds, we would suggest you add ¾ of the required chia seeds to the recipe.

2 – Flaxseeds

Flaxseeds or Linseeds possess a high content of Omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, protein, minerals, and vitamins.

You can directly mix them in recipes or sprinkle them in yoghurt and salads to enjoy all the nutrients.

Flaxseeds also offer that gel-like texture, but you need to use lesser water than the amount you use for soaking your chia seeds.

Ensure that you use the ground flaxseeds as the whole ones won’t give you that gel-like texture.

Flaxseed does have a nuttier taste compared to chia seeds.

You will also have smooth bowel movements and easier digestion when you consume them.

Substitute Ratio – You can use the same amount of flaxseeds as the chia seeds.

But if you want to make it less nutty, then go for ¾ of the required amount.

3 – Quinoa

Another top substitute for chia seeds has to be Quinoa.

This ingredient is known for its protein and is widely used in veggie patties and salads.

We would personally recommend you to include Quinoa in puddings for a delicious meal.

Yes, Quinoa may not provide as many nutrients as chia seeds; however, they are still quite beneficial.

You should know that Quinoa tends to possess all the 9 required amino acids that benefit your health.

If you soak it, the texture will be quite similar to that of chia seeds.

Substitute Ratio – Here, you can use the same amount as the required chia seeds in the recipe.

However, you need to first cook it for 15-20 minutes in water.

Plus, you can always add some more if you wish to obtain more nutrients.

4 – Psyllium Husks

In the same way as chia seeds, the psyllium husks also help in increasing the fibre intake in your body.

Many folks prefer adding this ingredient to their diet so that they feel fuller between meals.

If you are someone who wishes to lose weight, then psyllium husks will be of great help to you.

You will be able to buy this ingredient in the form of a supplement or powder.

But it’s still possible to find this ingredient in its whole form.

We would advise you to go for the whole husks since you are using them as a replacement for chia seeds.

Substitute Ratio – With the psyllium husks, you can go for the same amount as the chia seeds.

Just make sure to strain out all the excess liquid after soaking it overnight.

You need to do it to prevent its texture from getting affected.

5 – Oat Bran

Lastly, let’s not forget one of the most common substitutes for chia seeds, i.e., oat bran.

Oat bran is super affordable and goes extremely well with sweet desserts and veggie patties.

It is also smart to use this ingredient in smoothies, crackers, and energy bars.

One great thing about oat bran is that you won’t have to deal with health problems like flatulence and bloating.

Substitute Ratio – Both of these items tend to absorb water, so it’s possible to stick with a 1:1 ratio.

About The Author

Sharing is caring!