chia seeds

[leeleelocs]

Hi,
Reading Green for Life and she talks about Chia seeds. can anyone tell me what are chia seeds. They sound like flax seeds is this a different name for flax seed. Thanks

[Rawkinlocs]

I'm thinking the seeds used for those Chia Pets..but I'm not sure and I don't know what actual kind of seed that is.

[exurb]

Rawkinlocs is right, they're the seeds used for ch-ch-ch-chia pets. ;)

I know they're not flax, they seem to be closer to a "cress" but whether they're exactly the same or a variation of them I really don't know.

[Sheryl]

I think they are actually the seed from a type of sage. Before flax they were the main seed used (long ago), and are actually easier to digest, and very high in Omega 3 EFA's. And yes they were in Chia Pets!

When you add them to water (like a teaspoon to 4 cups) it will actually gel the water, making it effective in thickening raw dishes (it's a type of soluble fibre). They are also supposed to be quite tasty.

I just ordered some.. looking forward to trying them. Australian Quarantine has them now... I should have them soon. I'll let you know how they are!

Cheers,
Sheryl

[sport]

Pardon my ignorance but what are Chia Pets

[Sheryl]

They were little clay pot animal shapes. You soaked them in water, then spread them with chia seeds. They grew into little fluffy green animals with the sprouts growing in every direction. I gave one to my grandmother once for Christmas!

I don't know if they sell them anymore.

Cheers,
Sheryl