Fine, fine, fine. You’ve worn me down and I am going to do it at long last. I have thought about writing this post many times, but something has always held me back. But finally, here I am, writing a post about what I eat day-to-day. I am sure some of you are thinking “Whoop-de-doo, who cares what your daily diet is?”. But I’ve been asked for this post more times than I can count. Some of you are diabetics, wondering how you can control your glucose levels through diet and exercise. Some of you are runners, wondering how to get the nutrition you need on a low carb or gluten-free diet. And some of you are just…nosy. I’m kidding, of course, as most of you have vested interest in your nutrition and are curious about what I eat. I get that. So, here we go.
(Should you not be the least interested in my daily diet, feel free to skip to the recipe…I don’t blame you for a second!).
Now, let me just say that I’ve resisted this post not because I don’t want to share or I don’t think it’s a good idea. My biggest issue is that I am an inveterate snacker, a “grazer”, if you will, so three square a day is not my usual routine. I am also the opposite of a creature of habit, I like huge amounts of variety, so what I eat changes greatly day-to-day. My typical day is very un-typical. Plus I am also really lazy and a post like this is much harder to write than a cute little anecdote about the recipe. But as I have also come up with a great new recipe for breakfast, that also happens to have fueled me through a grueling 14-mile run, I figured it was time to share.
Breakfast: I am usually up by 5am, and I start every morning with a cup of coffee with cream. That’s probably the only thing that remains standard from day to day. After that, it’s some sort of low-carb baked good (homemade, natch!), because I love muffins and scones and such with my coffee. If I don’t have some baked goods on the go, I am at a loss and that’s when I am more likely to eat something I shouldn’t. So I try to have something made the majority of the time. Now that I’ve come up with this low carb hot cereal recipe, I have that to fall back on (and it’s good! And it fuels you through 14 rainy miles!).
Mmmm, hello delicious Chocolate Pecan Pie Muffins!
Second breakfast/snack: When you’re up as early as I am, second breakfast is almost mandatory. And if I’ve gone for a run, I usually come home starving. That’s where the omelets and veggies come in. A 2 egg omelet with cheese and half an avocado is pretty typical, and maybe some tomato slices. If I don’t have an omelet, then it might be full-fat Greek yogurt with some nuts or berries on top.
Lunch: I’ll be honest, I don’t usually have a proper lunch. I am often full from my omelet and working hard in the middle of the day, so I snack on nuts, maybe a few slices of cheese, and some steamed vegetables with walnut oil. Plus I often eat a few bites (at least!) of whatever I am taking pictures of for this blog. If I do feel the need for a bigger meal, it’s usually leftovers from the night before, some meat or fish and some vegetables.
Snacks: I do love my snacks, and I spend much of the afternoon snacking. Half an apple, veggies, peanuts, maybe a muffin or low carb treat (homemade, natch!). In a pinch when I need fast energy, a scoop of peanut butter on a spoon.
Snack Attack! Zucchini Chips with Smoked Paprika
Dinner: Dinner is easy. Well, maybe not so easy when you have three kids to feed. My kids are not that picky, but they have their likes and dislikes and it can be a struggle to find things that all three will eat. And I refuse to cook separate meals for everyone just because I am a diabetic, so they are learning to like the food I put in front of them. And it’s pretty darn great food, in my opinion. Often it is meat, chicken or fish, with a huge salad or several servings of vegetables. My kids do eat salad. And they like their broccoli, red pepper and carrots, so dinner is time to chow down on the veggies. If we don’t have meat or fish, we have something with eggs or tofu. Protein, fat and vegetables make up the bulk of our dinners.
Dessert: If you read this blog, you know I love dessert. I have seemingly devoted my life to creating desserts that people following a low carb, gluten-free diet can enjoy. And as far as I am concerned, it’s a very noble cause indeed! So yes, I always have dessert. Sometimes twice a day. And sometimes for breakfast. Because the great thing about low carb dessert is that there is no sugar or flour, and it’s about as healthy as anything else you could put into your mouth, so why not???
I heart dessert…and these Mini Maple Pumpkin Cheesecakes!
Total Carbs: In a day, I probably hit between 70 to 100 g of carbs. That’s not as low as some people go, I realize. I am fortunate in several ways…that I am slender and fit as it is, and that my diabetes stays well-controlled in this range. But I am mindful of every single bite I put in my mouth. I balance it out, I think ahead, I know when I’ve had too much and need to compensate. And I sometimes fail. Like anyone, I am human and I have my weaknesses and temptations. There are days when I am drawn to the things I know I shouldn’t eat, and I give in. But what’s astonishing is how “controlled” my indulgences are now. There is always that little voice in my head letting me know I could be damaging my health beyond control should I go too far. I thank goodness for that little voice – it saves me some guilt now, and it will surely save my health later on.
And now, to the recipe. This seemed like a great recipe to pair with a post about my daily diet, because I have to say, this one is going to be a keeper. It’s an ideal breakfast, since it’s easy to make, super healthy and keeps me full for a while (a rare feat of any breakfast food for me). As I said, it recently fueled me through a 14-mile run and I never needed anything else except water. I call it “cream of wheat” because that’s what it tastes like, although there is no wheat within 14 miles of it. It’s mostly chia seed and flax seed meal. I am fairly new to chia seeds and they make me laugh. They are so goopy and sludgy, you can’t imagine why anyone would want to actually eat them. And then you do eat them, and they taste great and give you lots of energy. They are apparently the superfood that the amazing lost tribe of ultra-runners in Born to Run eat, so I figured they were worth a shot.
Thumbs up…it tastes great and is perfect on a cold fall morning. Try it with some nut butter mixed in for extra energy.
This hearty and healthy grain-free hot cereal tastes great and is perfect on a cold fall morning. Try it with some nut butter mixed in for extra energy.
- 2 tbsp chia seed
- 2 tbsp flax seed meal
- 2 tsp Swerve Sweetener or other erythritol
- 1/3 cup hot water
- 2 tbsp heavy cream (optional)
- 2 tbsp nut butter (optional)
- Berries (optional)
In a small bowl, stir together chia seed, flax seed meal, and Swerve.
- Add hot water, stir and let sit for 2-3 minutes.
Stir in cream, nut butter, berries, raisins, chopped nuts... whatever floats your boat.
Serves 1. Each serving (without optional stir-ins) has a total of 18 g of carbs and 18 g of fiber. Whoa, that's a lot of fiber! Total NET CARBS = 0 g.
Brian @ A Thought For Food says
October 12, 2012 at 7:37 amThanks for sharing your day-to-day routine. I’m not much of a breakfast person, but am starting to appreciate having a little protein (eggs or cheese) in the morning. Oh, and hot cereal used to be a favorite of mine. Haven’t had it in a while though.
Buddy Pierce says
February 15, 2019 at 3:59 pmHi, I like the low carb hot cereal recipe. It’s really good. Here’s where I’m having a problem. I’m looking at a package of chia seeds…130 calories for 2 Tbsp. The ground flax is 70 calories for 2 Tbsp. Right off the bat, th as 200 calories. You’re showing 72 calories. What’s up with that? Unless you’re not counting the fiber as having calories. Just counting the fat alone, that’s 113 calories. Fiber has calories, about half as much as carbs, or 2 cal. Per gram.
Carolyn says
February 18, 2019 at 9:54 pmHi Buddy. This is a very old recipe and I never added anything in terms of nutritional info. Unfortunately, my new recipe plug in adds “place holders” and that’s what you’re seeing here.
Lisa Hiatt says
October 12, 2012 at 8:44 amThanks for the post! I love breakfast cereal in the winter. I have another recipe that is made with ground almonds and flax. I like chia seeds as well! Will definitely try this!!!
The Mom Chef ~ Taking on Magazines One Recipe at a Time says
October 12, 2012 at 8:56 amYour eating sounds much like my brother’s, who’s been just about carb free for over 15 years now. He’s lucky though; he doesn’t ever crave sweets. I tend that way too, but I’d sorely miss pasta, potatoes and rice.
Do your kids ever get a yen for the high starch carbs like those to go alongside the meat and veggies? Do you?
the 3volution of j3nn says
October 12, 2012 at 9:15 amI just got a delivery of Swerve sweetener yesterday, I’m stoked about that. I’ve been doing low-carb all this week and came to the same conclusion about dessert: there’s no sugar or flour, nor are they high in carbs or empty calories, so why not eat them as often and as guilt-free as I’d like? My low-carb treats are just another way to get healthy fats and protein and fiber, lol. It’s sort of genius. 😉
Katrina @ In Katrina's Kitchen says
October 12, 2012 at 9:20 amAs you know I have tried and tried oatmeal. I suppose I will probably keep trying. My breakfast is typically eggs and veggies/cheese. I’m thankful that my kids like eggs too!
Kam Murnion says
October 12, 2012 at 10:34 amthank you so much reading your day to day sounds very much like myself and I am trying real hard to improve the items that I love to eat and snack on daily and stories like yours help very much!.
Chris says
October 12, 2012 at 10:47 amI was recently diagnosed with diabetes…it really hit out of the blue and struck my eyesight, with no family history. I am working hard to get as slim as I can and overhaul my diet. I appreciate your willingness to share your routine. I was so excited to find your blog and yummy recipes. The hardest part for me right now is building up a low carb pantry. 🙂 I’m hoping I can eventually manage things without medication.
Carolyn says
October 12, 2012 at 10:51 amI am so sorry to hear that, Chris. I need to do a low-carb pantry post, I really do. But for a starter kit, I recommend…almond flour, erythritol, stevia, xanthan gum, high % cacao chocolate to use as chocolate chips, unsweetend cocoa powder, whey protein powder. And eggs, lots and lots of eggs to make baked goods that satisfy without sending your glucose soaring.
Chris says
October 12, 2012 at 10:57 pmI have been using the truvia for baking (it was easily available at the grocery store, I’m in a tiny little farming community). Which do you prefer the best, Swerve or Z Sweet?
Thanks again!
Laurie says
January 28, 2018 at 4:25 pmCan you tell us which Cacao Powder you use?
Lehnanne says
October 12, 2012 at 10:48 amThank you for this recipe. I am going to try it out soon. I am a hot cereal junkie. = )
Anna says
October 12, 2012 at 11:39 amSame, same and same! Absolutely loved hearing about your day-to-day, it sounds so much like mine. I used to take milk & sugar, but I’ve come to love coffee with heavy cream even better and I have it every morning. Homemade baked good, check. Lots of them yours 🙂 Late breakfast and then snacky stuff over lunch and mid-afternoon. My kid is so small she doesn’t know I’m diabetic, but we all eat more or less the same dinner and I feel great feeding my family healthy food without added sugar and excess carbs. I don’t really know anymore how many carbs I have in a day, and I’m guessing it’s probably more than I think. But I am also doing very well with this way of eating for now so I’m not worried about it.
Carolyn says
October 12, 2012 at 5:49 pmI don’t track my overall carbs either. But I do test enough that I have a good sense of what my body can handle.
www.theSuperFoodess.com says
October 12, 2012 at 12:49 pmGreat post! And I’ll have to try this recipe 🙂
Carol Lovett says
October 12, 2012 at 1:01 pmThank you for sharing! I love seeing what bloggers eat:)
Jean says
October 12, 2012 at 1:32 pmI’m sitting down with a bowl of this hot cereal right now, with chopped up pecans. Yum! This would be great on backpacking trips too – easy to pack and prepare. I love hot cereal for breakfast.
Carolyn says
October 12, 2012 at 5:50 pmOh good point. Actually it’s perfect for camping!
Diane (createdbydiane) says
October 12, 2012 at 3:23 pmlove seeing what you eat, so insightful! looks like a great breakfast.
Jeanette says
October 12, 2012 at 3:52 pmGreat post Carolyn – loved reading about what you eat to keep yourself fueled throughout the day. Sending this along to my brother who is pre-diabetic.
Moira Richardson says
October 13, 2012 at 8:47 amYum! I’m having this for breakfast today — I had to add 1/2 t of cocoa powder, too 🙂 Mmmm
Carolyn says
October 13, 2012 at 12:25 pmThat sounds like a great addition.
Katharine says
October 13, 2012 at 9:16 amThanks for this post! I eat very similarly (well, since finding out about diabetes). I maybe tend closer to 60-75g carbs a day as I can’t seem to handle much more than that. I’m eager to get my A1C again in November to see how I’m doing big picture. It’s really nice to see how others are managing their diet! Thanks for sharing about yourself!
Carolyn says
October 13, 2012 at 12:27 pmI find having some baked goods on hand really helps me stay more on track. If I don’t have anything that I can grab in a pinch, that’s when I am more likely to stray.
Katharine says
October 14, 2012 at 7:25 amWhich of your low carb baked goods do you find yourself making and freezing over and over again? For your early morning coffee companion or snacks.
Carolyn says
October 14, 2012 at 8:04 amHmmm, good question. I adore my Almond Crusted Butter Cake, and although I don’t freeze it (because I eat it too quickly), I make it over and over again. It can be turned into muffins though, and frozen. I’ve done that with the raspberry jam filled muffins (the batter is the same as the butter cake recipe). The pumpkin “bran” muffins froze really well. Scones are super easy to make and I don’t freeze them because I eat them so quickly too. I’ve made the cheddar jalapeno muffins a few times and they froze well. All of my cakes freeze really well too (un-iced).
Ericha says
March 28, 2018 at 10:14 amFor an even even better picture a how well your body is managing glucose, you can ask your doctor to perform a insulin fasting, glucose fasting, and of course, the A1c. When you start comparing those numbers, over time, you can get a much clearer picture.
[email protected] says
October 13, 2012 at 9:36 amThanks for giving us some insight into your eating routine Carolyn! Congrats on the 14 mile run too. I miss cream of wheat – we used to eat it all the time for breakfast when I was a kid and now that the weather is cooling down I’m missing a comforting bowl of hot cereal! I’m going to try this soon though I may replace the flax with hemp seeds and see if that works!
Carolyn says
October 13, 2012 at 12:19 pmI haven’t tried hemp seeds yet…where do you get them? Do they taste good?
[email protected] says
October 16, 2012 at 10:13 amI love the flavor of hemp seeds – kind of walnut meets pine nut flavor and they are loaded with Omega 3’s and magnesium so super healthy for you. I get mine at our local Costco but you can order them online from places like nuts.com or any other natural foods site for a good price as well. Try them out, you’ll love them!
anna says
October 16, 2012 at 10:42 amthe hemp seeds are really great! I put them in my salads and on top of cakes. Really yummy! I, too, get mine at costco…
susan says
October 13, 2012 at 10:08 amwhat dishes do you use…i love your little white bowl!!
i am looking to invest in some white dishes and i love the square and rectangle designs.
thank you!!
Carolyn says
October 13, 2012 at 12:19 pmOh dear, I wish I could tell you. Problem is that those ramekins came in a set from my father-in-law long ago and I have no idea where they are from!
Jennifer Eloff says
October 13, 2012 at 10:16 amI used to be a grazer as well for many years. I still tend to do that when cooking – not such a great idea as it often spoils my meal. I find though more often than not that when I’m hungry, I cannot wait to eat! I don’t run or do any exercise of note, other than leisurely activities such as walking my dog, lifting small weights for toning “granny arms” and running on the spot when I have the energy and have been sitting for too long. I refrained from getting a maid and do my own housework. I have a gardener for my huge, beautiful tropical garden though – that would be impossible. I have managed to cut down on grazing substantially since incorporating IFing from time to time; not that grazing is bad if your body can deal with it. I also have my carbs in the range you mention and sometimes eat even more. I eat bananas, a small amount of rice mixed with tons of veggies and other fruit so that’s where they come from mostly. I don’t bake a huge amount anymore, but usually something once a week or so. I have a cheat day a week when I go to the city, but typically it is nothing too terrible. I can be lazy about cooking and baking.
Carolyn says
October 13, 2012 at 12:18 pmI love being a grazer…right now, it works for me. And if I had your lush tropical garden, I would get a gardener too! I do have house cleaners, though, and thank goodness, because keeping up in this large house with three kids…impossible!
Cathy McNally says
October 13, 2012 at 10:44 amThat is really nice! I didn’t realize how much I missed hot cereal! thanks
Jen Houck says
October 13, 2012 at 4:26 pmI reAlly miss cream of wheat and this looks good. I have never seen chia seeds in the store. Do you think this would be good if I just added more flax meal?
Carolyn says
October 13, 2012 at 4:51 pmHonestly, no. Chia seeds get sort of gummy when you add water, which helps thicken the whole thing. You might try ordering some online. Do you have a Trader Joe’s near you?
erica says
October 15, 2012 at 1:13 amU could experiment with ground psyllium husk (if u can find them!) They have a similar gloppy effect. 🙂
Swathi says
October 13, 2012 at 9:48 pmMy hubby bought a packet of chia seeds, I will make this hot cereal. Looks delicious.
Alison @ Ingredients, Inc. says
October 14, 2012 at 5:59 pmsuper fabulous idea Carolyn! You are the best!
Kiersten @ Oh My Veggies says
October 15, 2012 at 9:59 amYay, I’m glad you wrote this post! And you know, it’s the goopy sludginess that makes me love chia seeds. I guess it’s because it reminds me of Jello, which I don’t eat anymore. 🙂
anna says
October 16, 2012 at 10:44 amI made this, this morning and man was I surprised at how yummy it was. I wasn’t too sure it would be because the chia seeds are like goop when I have used them before. I liked this recipe and will be using it often! I add water to my chia seeds and let it soak overnight and drink it throughout the day. Its really a great food…
Carolyn says
October 16, 2012 at 11:03 amI was suprised at how good it was too! They certainly are goopy…
Rikke Fogh says
October 16, 2012 at 12:34 pmoh my.. you gave me such a Lord of the Rings flashback! Second breakfast is as you may or may not know a concept well loved by hobbits!
Thanks for sharing!
I look forward to a pantry post..
Carolyn says
October 16, 2012 at 2:05 pmI may be related to hobbits then. Smaller feet, though…
Gail @ Faithfulness Farm says
October 17, 2012 at 4:29 pmI’ve been doing the Laura Dolson’s Flaxseed Meal/PB Hot *cereal* and LOVE it but am looking to mix it up. My question: Are the chia seeds whole or is it meal too? Thank you for great recipes. I have been a LC’er for the past 2-1/2 years and have lost a a total of 110lbs with another 8 or so to go. Love the LC lifestyle. Oh, and I am 52 and last month RAN my first 10k.
Gail Blain Prather
Kellie says
October 19, 2012 at 8:47 pmFound your blog a few weeks ago. I’ve was a LC’r for about 2 years then started cheating. Previously, I shunned all sugar, but I think that set me up for failure. Then I found your blog, and I’ve tried this recipe plus chocolate pecan pie muffins and your pumpkin bran muffins. I have to say “YUMMY” to all of them. I’ve had this grain free hot cereal several mornings in a row. It carries me to lunch with no problems. I’m so glad I found your blog! Thanks for sharing,
Carolyn says
October 20, 2012 at 11:56 amSo very glad to hear it!
Tammy Dunlap says
October 20, 2012 at 10:34 pmI had to laugh reading your post of your daily diet eating habits…. You sound just like me! Thanks so much for sharing your recipes, it makes it so much easier to find more great low carb recipes to add to my weekly meal plan! Thanks goodness for people like you who take the time to do that!
Susie Hanigan says
October 23, 2012 at 3:59 pmThank you so much for the yummy hot cereal. I have made something similar with almond meal and flax but I love the chia seeds !!! I am a Type 1 diabetic diagnosed at age 46. I am 50 now and living and loving the low carb life. It’s great sites like yours that keep diversity in our diets while keeping the blood sugar in range. Like you, I am a runner. I just completed my first marathon (Chicago) two weeks ago and am set to do another in January1 Keep on cooking and keep on running !!!
Russell van Kraayenburg says
October 23, 2012 at 6:40 pmBoy this looks deliciously healthy!
Gail @ Faithfulness farm says
October 27, 2012 at 10:07 amI finally got my order of chia seeds and Swerve in and this morning I tried this *cereal*. First I have to say that I subbed out the water for unsweetened almond milk – I always preferred my cream of wheat made with milk – added 1/2 c. red raspberries and the cream but passed on the nut butters (this time). OMG — this was so wonderfully delicious!! Really was a *cream of wheat* type experience. I’ll be making this again and again 🙂
Blessings~Gail
Jennifer Malmberg says
November 27, 2012 at 10:44 pmThis is silly good. I’m So relieved to gain this recipe. Breakfasts had been a “quest” bar lately because I just couldn’t get my act together. I travel a lot and I have been pre-bagging individual servings in my carry on.
Dawn says
December 9, 2012 at 4:54 amI just got around to trying this and was surprised at just how much I enjoyed it. I’ve tried chia seeds in other contexts and haven’t really been able to taste them — they really are tasty and went perfectly with the other ingredients. (My add-ins were walnut butter, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a couple spoonfuls of Greek yogurt.) It’s also very filling!
Heather says
January 28, 2013 at 5:04 pmI made the hot cereal today and I really enjoyed it and the break from eggs.
It filled me up and stayed with me for hours. Thanks so much!
Ellen says
March 24, 2013 at 12:31 amIs there any reason you couldn’t store a 1:1 mix of ground flax seed meal and chia seeds in the fridge to make this prep even faster?
Love the recipe–it’s my new favorite breakfast!
jc says
January 3, 2016 at 2:04 pmAbsolutely. I’ve mixed my dry ingredients in a ziplock to take with me for breakfast when we were staying over-night somewhere.
Shel says
June 18, 2013 at 11:51 amLove! Discovered your recipes yesterday, made this for breakfast this morning. I was tempted to slather this in butter and add some brown sugar substitute (my fave toppings for cream of wheat) but instead hit it with some cocoa and almond milk. Such a tasty change of pace from eggs, eggs, and more eggs!
Doug Varrieur says
July 27, 2013 at 9:59 amHi Carolyn, congrats n your blog, very nice. One of my readers found your chia seed recipe and posted a link to your blog at our reader forum http://www.fattoskinny.net I love your creativity! I see you like pumpkin, you can check out 2 on my pumpkin cooking videos at these links;
1- http://www.fattoskinny.net/index.php?topic=1216.0
2- http://www.fattoskinny.net/index.php?topic=1248.0
Nice to have met you 🙂
Doug
Carolyn says
July 27, 2013 at 12:14 pmThanks for sharing, Doug!
Doug Varrieur says
July 27, 2013 at 3:32 pmYou are very welcome! 🙂
Janet Banks says
October 22, 2013 at 2:31 pmThis hot cereal tasted so much like the cream of wheat I have enjoyed since childhood! Thanks for this! I love hot cereal all year round but going grain free has made this a challenge.
Carolyn says
October 22, 2013 at 3:41 pmGlad to hear it!
Deb says
October 24, 2013 at 8:48 amChia and flax have not been my faves, but I do use them. This is off the charts delicious. I’m from upstate NY, check Montague, NY radar, it’s cold, snowing and letting me know what’s coming for the next 5-6 months… But I’m armed and ready with my hot cereal, thanks, Carolyn.
Deb 🙂
Carolyn says
October 24, 2013 at 11:18 amGlad to hear it!
Carla says
January 11, 2014 at 4:59 pmI’m not trying to be gross, but I’m wondering how your system handles all that fiber right before a long run like that. Do you have to make any scheduled bathroom stops? I want to try this cereal to fuel my long runs, but I’m worried about the gastro effects it might have.
Carolyn says
January 11, 2014 at 5:21 pmIt was not a problem on that run. I hate having to make pit stops but I didn’t at all on that run. But each person is different, remember!
Shannon says
February 4, 2014 at 9:56 amI made this for breakfast today, my first concoction with my first bag of Swerve. I am pleasantly surprised! I thought there was no possible way something that looked like mine did (yours is all pretty of course!) could possibly taste good but it did!! Thanks so much!
Jackie says
July 11, 2014 at 9:01 amThis was great and just what I was looking for! I loved Cream of Wheat, back in the day. I made this with unsweetened almond milk, no sweetener, and topped off with some half and half. I’m going to experiment next time and try grinding the chia seeds to see what that does to the texture. Who am I kidding, I’m going to buy ground chia seeds, lol. Still, I’m curious to see how it turns out. Thanks for the recipe – this looks like a great one to play with!
Carolyn says
July 11, 2014 at 9:03 amGlad you liked it. I grind my chia seeds for other recipes in a coffee grinder. Works like a dream!
Brooke says
September 20, 2014 at 3:18 pmJust courious about the nutrional info. As I calculate it it’s only 12 grams of fiber 4 from the flax and 8 from the chia. What brands are you using?
Thanks!!
Carolyn says
September 20, 2014 at 3:57 pmAt that time, I was using Trader Joe’s chia and I think the nutrition said 8 g of carbs and 7 g of fiber. But now I use Bob’s Red Mill and their chia says a lower fiber count. But it was always Bob’s flax seed meal and that’s all fiber (I don’t have the bag in front of me at the moment so I can’t give the full counts). What brands are you using?
jojoleb says
November 4, 2014 at 12:26 pmWow! Great recipes.
I came upon a similar thing, but made the ‘instant cream-of-not-wheat’ version. It’s virtually the same, but I ground my 2 tbsp of chia seeds in a coffee grinder
Basically:
2 tbsp chia seeds–>grind in a coffee grinder to a powder
2 tbsp flax seed meal
1 tbsp coconut flour (you really don’t taste it, but it seems to help absorb hot water more quickly)
1/4 tsp of cinnamon (or any flavoring to taste)
1/4 tsp of vanilla (or any other flavoring to taste)
1/4 tsp honey
A pinch of salt
10 ounces of hot water
(Total Calories: 178; total carbs: 17 g; fiber: 11.8 g; net carbs 6.8 g; If you skip the honey–I think it tastes fine without it–you’re down to 172 calories, 15.6 g carbs, 11.8 g fiber, with net carbs of 3.8 g)
The absorption of the hot water is faster, for those in a rush. You do have to stir quickly while you pour in the hot water, or you will form globs of chia, but if you stir in quickly you can get a nice creamy consistency. The longer it sits, the firmer it gets.
Mindy says
November 13, 2014 at 10:47 amThis is a great replacement for cream of wheat! Thank you for sharing! Just finished this for breakfast and my tummy is happy.
Val says
January 24, 2015 at 10:25 amYou’re a lifesaver! It snowed last night and I woke up wanting hot cereal, this was perfect. I added heavy cream, 1/3 serving of almonds, chopped, a couple strawberries, and a serving of blueberries. Absolutely hit the spot.
Maria says
February 4, 2015 at 9:20 amI am pleasantly surprised; this is pretty good. I used coconut milk as I am dairy free as well as GF and low carb. Thanks for the recipe!
Danielle Wooding @ New England Daughter says
February 20, 2015 at 11:40 amWhat a great breakfast. My question is does it smell like cream of wheat. 🙂 That takes me back to childhood real quick. Any advice on what to use if you don’t use swerve or other sweeteners like that? Chia can be sweet on it’s own (at least to me), but I’m not sure about when you mix the rest of that in there.
Carolyn says
February 20, 2015 at 11:42 amI am not sure if it smells like Cream of Wheat, but it certainly tastes like it with a little sweetener of some kind. Do you feel comfortable with any sweeteners? Honey?
Kelly says
February 21, 2015 at 10:06 amThis is great! Just made it. Added unsweetened cocoa and topped it with unsweetened almond milk. Delicious!
dina says
February 22, 2015 at 10:04 pmwhat a great recipe. this has been a good winter breakfast. i’ll make a batch on sundays, and then reheat in the morning before work. i use a variety sf torani syrups i keep on hand for coffee, such as vanilla, caramel, or belgian cookie, and add it to the hot (silk’s cashew) milk. toppings have included toasted coconut chips, hemp hearts, and various nuts. oh and sometimes i’ll add extracts, like maple to the milk, and always had a hefty amount of pumpkin pie spice to the dry ingredients.
Anissa Reynolds says
October 17, 2015 at 8:21 amI just made this for breakfast. Nice and quick, and really acceptable sub for oatmeal! I added sukrin gold, cinnamon, and sf maple syrup! I’ve been missing my hot cereal!
Robin says
November 25, 2015 at 11:49 amI make this now with the flax, chia, 1 tsp co oil, pumpkin pie spice, stevia, and 1/4 c pumpkin purée. Hot water. Let sit. Top with SF maple syrup. Oh my! Fantastic!
Robin says
February 12, 2016 at 4:02 pmWow! This surprised me! I am a cream of wheat lover and I thought there was no way this would come even close. Was I wrong! It is more slimey than wheat, but the flavor is there.
I added a bit of maple flavor for a brown sugarish flavor and because it was so thick (even with extra added water) I used half and half instead of cream.
I couldn’t finish my HALF serving so my son had some too and he liked it as well! (And that’s saying a LOT since he has autism and has some very particular food/sensory issues)
Thank you!!
edith schnupp says
February 28, 2016 at 5:07 pmThe chia pudding I make has to sit a few hours, or overnight. Am I correct in assuming you eat this as soon as it’s made? Can’t wait to try this.
Carolyn says
February 28, 2016 at 6:44 pmQuite soon after, you bet!
Ilene Watson says
March 2, 2016 at 4:32 pmI just made this and it was amazing! Thank you for such an awesome recipe. It was just the thing I needed this afternoon to satisfy my sweet tooth without going off plan.
Merle Bussey says
March 9, 2016 at 10:42 pmGreat little breaky recipe, thank-you for sharing
Erica says
March 30, 2016 at 1:39 amAre you still eating carbs in the 70-100g range? Or are you keto now? I am trying to stay grain free and low carb for even blood sugar throughout the day as my hormones are crazy and even as a sugar free non diabetic my A1C was high ish. I use your recipes all the time and could easily eat substitute bread and desserts all day every day rather than as treats as they are meant. Without being keto anymore (it was consuming me & becoming obsessive) I don’t know how much daily fat is safe.
Dense says
April 25, 2016 at 2:55 amAll I can say is….Brilliant ! Bravo ! Just what I was looking for ! Thank you ! zero carb hot breakfast cereal is what I need. Thank you!!
Dawn says
June 12, 2016 at 3:19 pmA large cup of organic coffee with 1 T organic unrefined cold pressed coconut oil, 1 t Kerrygold salted butter, and alcohol free vanilla stevia. Most of time, hardboiled egg for a fast breakfast or brazil nut and a piece of raw cheese.
This recipe is appreciated so much, thanks. I will use my coffee grinder for both flaxseed and chia seed, and then with other ingredients try to melt in some raw organic cacao butter, the tiny piece(s) and powder (settles on bottom of the bag) and/or likewise raw organic cacao paste with grass fed butter. I usually have less than 30 net carbs. per day, and found that adding some extra healthy fat daily has helped to shorten my waistline, this recipe is a winner.
On another note, I have been wondering the healthy benefits and any difference between cacao butter and cacao paste?
Both are also good in coffee (as mentioned) and blended in Vitamix, with about 1/8 t organic peppermint extract and 1 t grass fed heavy whipping cream.
Anne says
December 31, 2016 at 12:37 pmI just tried the cereal and it’s amazing~! I added a little sugar-free maple syrup and used Truvia instead of the Swerve. Thank you for sharing this recipe. I am so grateful to be able to eat cereal again.
Anne Wight says
December 31, 2016 at 12:38 pmI just tried the cereal and it’s amazing~! I added a little sugar-free maple syrup and used Truvia instead of the Swerve. Thank you for sharing this recipe. I am so grateful to be able to eat cereal again.
Eileen says
December 2, 2017 at 5:39 pmI am so happy I found this recipe! It’s my favorite thing to eat for breakfast now. The only change I make is to add a pinch of xanthan gum, because I like it to stay thick when I add milk.
I’ve taken to preparing a “mix” of the dry ingredients, placing them in snack-sized zip bags in the freezer. Just add water! 🙂
I really appreciate the run-down of your day-to-day approach to food, too. Really helpful. As usual, thanks for all you do. I’ve put your new cookbook on my Christmas list!
Anna Richards says
January 29, 2018 at 11:09 pmThis has been my go to since I first read this post! A few years at least. Thanks for sharing your routine!
Holly says
April 26, 2018 at 11:15 amDo you think the measurement for the chia seeds would be the same if it was ground? I don’t like whole chia seeds.
Carolyn says
April 26, 2018 at 1:12 pmNo, it would probably be about 1/3 less.
Holly says
April 26, 2018 at 1:13 pmGreat. Thanks. I need to try this. I really missed oatmeal and cream of wheat this past winter!
Gemma says
May 31, 2018 at 3:13 pmI’m wondering if you can give me some insight into your calorie count for one potion, my Chia seeds alone come out at over 100 cals for 2 tablespoons is this recipe for 2 potions?
It was super delicious
Carolyn says
May 31, 2018 at 4:26 pmI can honestly tell you that I have NO idea why it says 72 calories. I did not enter calories for this recipe (only carbs and fiber) and in the back end of my plug-in, the calorie field is empty. So I Don’t know why that is there. This is one portion and it’s hefty in calories so it fills you up right!
Janine says
October 29, 2018 at 10:31 amOh my gosh, I’m a grazer too!!!! I just can’t sit down to a big meal. Too much food on my plate takes my appetite away. 🤢 And I love your recipes! Thanx for dreaming about food all day! 😁
Brenda says
April 24, 2019 at 7:19 pm5 minutes?! I’m having this for breakfast in the morning. Thanx! I’ll let you know what “I” think in the morning. Haha! Can hardly wait to try it.
Brenda says
April 25, 2019 at 7:47 pmI’m back! Fixed this for breakfast this morning to take to work. Loved it! Very filling & lasted for a full 4-4 1/2 hours or so.
I’m having it again tomorrow morning for breakfast, this time with blueberries. Lovely!
My daughter does Keto with me and she has a tendency to get a little constipated and turns to an off the grocery shelf high fiber cereal. She’s going to give this a try; I told her I think it will work for her and be Keto too! I am really excited about this cereal, you’ve got to try it. It’s really good!