We’re deep in marathon training at the moment (yes, I know that makes it sound like we’re in the jungle, which could be about right – we’re drawing on all our resources and soldiering on even when we’d rather lie down in the shade of a tree and have a snooze). We’re also hungry a lot of the time and a little bit on the tired side. But help is at hand, people. We have discovered/invented the ultimate recovery drink, a vegan Chia Choc Mint Protein Shake. This is da bomb and then some! It’s delicious, refreshing and packed full of protein and healthy nutrients to help to get you back on track (for your next run, wahahahaha!)
Actually, it’s really tasty anyway, whether you’re a runner or not. Be warned, though, it’s not high in calories but it is quite filling so don’t drink too much or won’t want to eat for hours. This makes it a great breakfast shake too though; if you’re in a hurry to get out of the door, this will keep you going ’til elevenses.
Three things to note:
1 You need to soak the chia seeds in water – use one tablespoon of water to one teaspoon of chia seeds. Pop it in the fridge (I usually put it in a tiny tupperware) for about 15 minutes. It will go a bit gelatinous, which is exactly how you want it.
2 I used soya milk but you can use any plant milk you like – almond, rice, whatever you fancy.
3 You can use fresh mint or peppermint essence. If you use fresh mint, buzz the leaves for a few seconds before adding the other ingredients.
Keep any you don’t use in the fridge – it’s good the next day too. Just give it a shake and enjoy – did I mention it’s really delicious?
If you’re wondering where we get all our lovely stuff, for this recipe I used chia seeds from Naturya and buzzed the whole thing up in my trusty Froothie blender.
- 2 teaspoons chia seeds
- 600ml soya milk (or any other plant milk)
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- Handful fresh mint, buzzed in a blender, OR 3-4 drops natural peppermint essence
- Agave syrup to taste
- Soak the chia seeds in 2 tablespoons water for about 15 minutes
- If using fresh mint, buzz with a blender for a few seconds (ignore this instruction if you're using peppermint essence).
- Place all of the ingredients except the agave syrup in a food processor - or use a stick blender - and buzz until frothy.
- Add agave syrup to taste - depending on how sweet your tooth is, between 1 teaspoon and 1 tablespoon should do the trick.
What a great idea. I’ve got some chia seeds leftover from a coconut milk dessert I made and was wondering what else I could do. This sounds perfect. Im not a massive fan of chocolate mint though so might try adding a drop or two of vanilla essence.
Oooh, chia seed coconut milk dessert – sounds fab! Swapping mint for vanilla sounds tasty too. You’re a woman after our own hearts, Judi 🙂
I love this blog! The shake was a resounding success. I left the seeds soaking and following my 9 miler added them to almond milk and cocoa powder, I tweaked it a little though and added a banana, honey and a couple of drops of vanilla essence. It was absolutely delicious and very satisfying.
Judi, great to hear. They sound like fab tweaks too – we’ll have to try your version as well 🙂
Es un batido de proteínas muy bueno. Me encanta tu receta. Es Chicas Escort Caleta Olivia asombroso.