Vanilla – Why it’s a Must Have Pantry Staple

Vanilla powder is one of the most used ingredients I have in my pantry. I’m constantly adding a teaspoon here or there to my favourite recipes. You may be surprised to learn that vanilla is actually packed with a whole host of health benefits including;

• B vitamins, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, manganese and potassium
• Anti-inflammatory properties
• Antioxidants
• Supports nervous system function
• Helps regulate the metabolism
• Supports enzyme synthesis
• Anticarcinogenic
• Deters depression
• Aphrodisiac properties
• Supports hormone balance

I think vanilla is a must have for any pantry. It’s a classic flavour, whether it’s in ice-cream, custard or any type of dessert - you can’t go wrong! Vanilla has this unique ability to add a rich, deep aromatic flavour to even the most basic of dishes, plus it has numerous health benefits. Vanilla makes life not only that little bit sweeter, but healthier too.

I add vanilla powder to smoothies, chia puddings, panna cotta, jelly, cheesecakes, baked goods, pancakes, Bulletproof coffee, chai tea (and much more) so I can incorporate more of it into my diet.

Here’s a quick, easy and nourishing recipe that utilises the delicious vanilla bean that you can have for breakfast, a healthy snack or even dessert.

Vanilla & Berry Coconut Chia Pudding 

Serves 2 

Ingredients 

• ¼ cup chia seeds
• 1 ½ cups of coconut milk (100% pure)
• 2 tsp vanilla powder
• 1 - 2 tsp cinnamon powder
• ¾ - 1 cup organic berries + extra to garnish with
• Fresh mint leaves for garnishing
• A pinch or two of coconut flakes

Optional Add Ins: raw honey, pure maple syrup or liquid stevia to taste, other fruits, lemon or orange zest and juice, chopped pure organic dark chocolate, nuts or seeds or nut butter mixed through.  

Method

1. Add all ingredients (except garnishes) to a quality blender and blitz until well combined, alternatively stir all ingredients together in a bowl.
2. Taste the mixture and adjust if needed.
3. Pour/ spoon into two small glass jars and place in the fridge to set.
4. When ready garnish with extra berries, mint leaves, shredded coconut, nuts or seeds, chopped chocolate or whatever you desire.
5. Serve and enjoy!

Credit

Jordan Pie

Holistic Nutritionist + Certified Gaps Practitioner.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jordiepieface/

Website: http://www.reallifeofpie.com/

Resources

• Bilcu M et al. 2014. Efficiency of vanilla, patchouli and ylang ylang essential oils stabilized by iron oxide@C14 nanostructures against bacterial adherence and biofilms formed by staphylococcuc aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae clinical strains. 19 (11), 17943.
• Billings-Smith L. 2015. ‘What are the health benefits of vanilla extract’. Livestrong. Sourced from: http://www.livestrong.com/article/298410-what-are-the-health-benefits-of-vanilla-extract/
• Shyamala BN et al. 2007. ‘Studies on the antioxidant activities of natural vanilla extract and its constituent compounds through in vitro models’. J Agric Food Chem. 55(19), 7738.