I've been making my own graham crackers for a while (still tweaking that recipe) ‐ first to provide a healthier alternative for graham cracker crusts in desserts like this or this and then for an easy, portable snack for Gv.
The crackers have been working out well, but I wanted something more nutritional for Gv to be snacking on on a regular basis. Plus, I was after the perfect hummus delivery method for myself, since I eat so much of it and get tired of using the same old carrot chips to eat it and other dips.
I've been using chia seeds in my baking for a while (mostly to replace eggs) and am always looking for ways to incorporate them into other things (like smoothies, protein bites, and granola), so hey, why not try them out in a cracker?
Turns out, the ooey‐gooey‐ness property of chia seeds mixed with water provides the perfect "glue" for these wholesome snack crackers.
You're not going to believe how simple they are to make, and while this recipe creates a plain version, these crackers make a great base for just about any flavor profile you can dream up!
What You Need:
1/2 cup chia seeds
3/4 cup sunflower seeds
3/4 cup sesame seeds
1 cup water
What You Do:
1. Mix the seeds in a small bowl, then stir in the water.
2. Spread the goop onto a large baking sheet (I always line mine with this and never have problems with the crackers sticking).
3. Bake at 325 degrees for 35 minutes (the cracker edges will begin to curl up a bit and if you try to lift the cracker off the mat, it will come off easily. If it sticks, put it back in the oven for a bit longer).
4. Flip the cracker sheet over (it always holds together, as long as you're careful) and back into the oven for another 35 minutes.
5. Take it out of the oven, let it cool, then break it into whatever size pieces you'd like.
I also love these crackers with pumpkin seeds, but have been leaving them out just to be safe so Gv doesn't choke on them (she loves these crackers). Whenever I do include the pumpkin seeds (or any other seed, like poppy seeds), I just cut back on the amount of sunflower and sesame seeds. Just figure on 2 cups of seeds total for every cup of water and then mix and match to your little heart's desire.
I'm also constantly adding different seasonings to the mix. I usually always add in some kelp powder and garlic, but I've also tried raw, grated onion & garlic (tasty, but a bit more work) as well as hot sauce, cumin, coriander, pepper, and salt. A friend tasted one of these crackers the other day and remarked that she'd like to try a sweet version, with some cinnamon, a bit of honey, and some almond butter. I can't wait to hear how those turn out!
Are you like me, and crave crunchy chips and salty snacks? Do you get tired of dipping the same old carrot sticks into your hummus (or other dips)? These simple crackers are a perfect dipper or snack!
Can you think of other great flavor combinations to try? I'd love to hear - leave a comment or email me at lisahealy (at) outlook (dot) com.
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