Berries are fantastic for overall health, but also rate highly on the beauty scale, thanks to their antioxidant profile (antioxidants are the things that ward off free radicals; the latter being what’s responsible for rapid ageing). The humble blueberry would have to be at the top of my favourite berry list.
Here are two must-have blueberry recipes to welcome in the warmer weather. Enjoy!
Blueberry & Chia Breakfast Pudding
Method
To make the blueberry jam, combine the blueberries, honey, rosewater and vanilla in a small saucepan. Set over low heat and gently simmer for 5–10 minutes, until the blueberries soften and begin to collapse to make a chunky jam. Set aside to cool.
Meanwhile to prepare the chia pudding, heat the milk, honey and cardamom together in a small saucepan over low-medium heat for 3–4 minutes, or until it reaches scalding point. Set aside to infuse for 10 minutes.
Strain the milk into a medium bowl, add the chia seeds and stir to combine. Set aside for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally to break up any lumps, until the seeds absorb the liquid and swell to make a thick pudding consistency. Add the pistachios and stir to combine.
To assemble, place a large spoonful of the jam into the base of two serving glasses or bowls. Cover with the chia pudding and spoon over the remaining jam. Top with a dollop of yoghurt and sprinkle with toasted flaked almonds and pistachios. Drizzle with honey for additional sweetness if desired.
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Chia Pudding 1 1/4 cups (310 ml) milk 1 teaspoon honey 4 cardamom pods, split 1/3 cup (40 g) chia seeds 1 tablespoon finely chopped pistachios Blueberry, vanilla & rosewater jam 2 x 125 g punnets fresh blueberries 2 teaspoons honey, plus extra to drizzle (optional) 1 1/ 2 teaspoons rosewater 1/2 vanilla bean, seeds scraped Recipe courtesy of Australian BlueberriesIngredients
While green smoothies like some of these are my staples, I also like to be adventurous, if you will, and try ingredients beyond kale and spinach. This smoothie recipe from Gently Vegan is great for skin, thanks to Vitamin C and bromelain-rich pineapple. Ginger also acts as a powerful anti-inflammatory. And, of course, the blueberries!
Shining Smoothie
- 1/2 cup fresh Pineapple chunks
- 1 knob of ginger
- 1/2 cup of blueberries
- 1 cup almond milk
- 1 frozen Banana
Throw these ingredients into your blender and you have a glowing start to your day.
