Curd with Chia and Walnuts
A creamy, simple Indian-style yogurt bowl studded with nutrient-packed chia seeds and crunchy walnuts. Lightly sweetened and rested until the chia plumps up, it makes a refreshing breakfast, snack, or dessert that feels indulgent yet keeps things wholesome.
For 4 servings
- prep · ~2 min
Whisk the curd.
In a mixing bowl, whisk the chilled curd until smooth and creamy with no lumps.
- mix · ~1 min
Stir in chia seeds, sugar, and salt.
Add chia seeds, sugar, and a pinch of salt to the whisked curd. Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
- rest · ~15 min
Rest the mixture to bloom the chia.
Cover the bowl and set it aside for 15 minutes so the chia seeds can absorb moisture and swell up, giving the curd a thicker, pudding-like texture.
TIPResting for at least 15 minutes is key — it transforms the texture from watery to luscious and thick. - assemble · ~2 min
Assemble the bowls and top with walnuts.
Spoon the rested curd into serving katoris. Scatter the roughly chopped walnuts evenly over the top of each bowl.
- serve
Serve immediately or chill further.
Enjoy right away for a soft-set texture, or chill in the refrigerator for another 10 minutes if you prefer it firmer and colder.
TIPFor an overnight version, cover and refrigerate — it turns into a thick chia pudding that's perfect for grab-and-go mornings.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Whisk the curd thoroughly until no lumps remain for the smoothest, creamiest base.
- 2Let the chia seeds rest for the full 15 minutes – this is crucial for the pudding-like texture.
- 3Toast the walnuts in a dry pan for 1-2 minutes to deepen their flavor and add extra crunch.
- 4Use full-fat curd (yogurt) for a richer, more satisfying consistency; low-fat can be watery.
- 5For a quick chill, place the assembled bowls in the fridge for 10 minutes before serving.
- 6Make it ahead: mix chia, sugar, and salt into curd, then refrigerate overnight for a thick grab-and-go pudding.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Replace curd with thick coconut or soy yogurt. The chia and walnuts keep the texture and crunch intact, making it entirely plant-based.
low sugarLow-sugar
Swap the sugar for a few drops of stevia or a mashed ripe banana. Great for those watching their sugar intake while keeping natural sweetness.
spicedSpiced
Add a pinch of ground cardamom or cinnamon along with the sugar. This gives the bowl a warm, aromatic Indian dessert vibe.
berry swirlBerry swirl
Swirl in a tablespoon of mixed berry compote or fresh mashed berries before topping with walnuts. Adds tartness, color, and extra antioxidants.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Omega-3s
Chia seeds and walnuts both provide plant-based alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of omega-3 that supports heart and brain health.
High in Protein
Curd (yogurt) is an excellent source of high-quality protein, aiding muscle repair and keeping you full longer.
Gut-Friendly Probiotics
Live cultures in fresh curd promote a healthy digestive system by supporting beneficial gut bacteria.
Good Source of Fiber
Chia seeds are packed with soluble fiber, which aids digestion and helps maintain steady blood sugar levels.
Supports Bone Health
Curd is rich in calcium and phosphorus, both essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, Greek yogurt works well but is thicker and tarter. You may need to add a splash of milk to thin it slightly for the chia seeds to absorb evenly.
