I’ve been using chia seed for a few years now and can’t say enough about this amazing food. I just recently ran onto a cool site, www.101skillz.com, which shared 9 delicious ways to incorporate chia seeds into the diet—some I hadn’t thought of, and so I thought you might like this information as well.

Chia is renowned as the “Indian Running Food.” They’re South American in origin and the word Chia means strength in Mayan. Their refreshing and hydrating attributes make them a food of choice for modern athletes, too. They’re gluten free, high in nutrients, help keep you hydrated, and keep you feeling full longer. This said, let’s look at 9 ways to use these awesome seeds:

Make Energy Gel: Instead of imbibing in sugary, caffeine-loaded so-called “energy drinks,” opt for chia. Add a couple teaspoons of chia seeds to a cup of coconut water or unsugared fruit juice. Allow mixture to stand for about ten minutes.

Fish and Chicken Dishes: Mix some chia seeds with almond flour and garlic powder, or use just the seeds; they’ll add a crispy, crunchy flavorful coating.

Thicken Meatballs: Create gluten-free meatballs and burgers by using ground chia seeds instead of bread crumbs. A couple tablespoons per pound of ground beef will have the same effect as breadcrumbs.

Chia Sprouts in Salads and Sandwiches: Put 2 or 3 tablespoons of chia seeds in a dish and cover with water. Check them every 12 hours and change the water. In about 2 days you will have sprouts, which can then be used as you would other sprouts on salads and sandwiches.

Make Tasty, Healthy Pudding: Chia seeds make a rice pudding-like dish that is more flavorful and healthier than typical rice pudding. Mix the seeds with coconut, almond, or rice milk; add a dash of vanilla and mix; allow to set in the refrigerator about 3 or 4 hours.

Thicken Soup, Gravy and Sauces: The majority of soups, gravies, and sauces are thickened with cornstarch, flour, or even both. For a healthier, and gluten-free dish, use Chia seeds. Add them either ground or whole, a little at a time until you attain the desired thickness.

Use as a Safe Egg Substitute: Grind 1 tablespoonful Chia seeds in a blender or coffee grinder. Add three tablespoons water. This combination is a perfect substitute for 1 egg in a baking recipe.

Make Grain Free Crackers: Mix Chia seeds with equal parts coconut milk and other seeds of choice; add some garlic powder and salt to taste. Roll dough out to desired thickness; place on greased baking sheet or parchment paper; bake on a low temperature for about 2 hours. When golden brown, remove from oven and transfer to a cutting board. Immediately score crackers to desired size and shape; allow to cool. Store in airtight container in dark area.

Eat On Their Own! Chia seeds can be eaten straight from the package; while they may stick in your teeth, they are otherwise an ideal quick and easy snack.