Chocolate Chia Orange Pudding

The chocolate/orange pairing is one that divides public opinion.
Some people don’t like it, others say it’s a small miracle in itself.
Personally, I’m on the fence about it.
At times the orange flavor is overpowering; on other instances, I feel the acidity alters the chocolate aroma (and not in a good way); but I can’t deny that when done right, the silky dark chocolate brightened by citrus fruit can be an outstanding combination. Worthy of any palate.

Which brings me to this chocolate orange pudding. I’m gonna tell you a secret. Are you ready? *Whispers* I’m a door-to-door salesman, disguised as a triathlete. Bam! My secret is out.
Okay, not really. In fact, if my job was to sell Kirby vacuum cleaners, Tupperwares or Amway products, I would not make a dime.
But healthy and tasty recipes? I may know a thing or two.
So sit down, relax, and let me tell why you should make this chocolate chia orange pudding.

"Good morning madam/sir! I am Mike with TheIronYou.com and I am here to make your day!
If you will allow me the opportunity, I shall make you the best tasting chocolate orange pudding you’ve ever tasted!”

“Let me add that this pudding is raw, vegan, paleo/primal, and comes together in 5 minutes.
There are a lot of power foods in it for very few calories. What do you say? Are you interested?”

OK, OK, enough goofing off. Time to get serious.
As mentioned, this pudding comes together in 5 minutes. It’s very good for you - there are all the nutrients of cocoa, avocado, chia seeds, honey and - of course - orange.

It’s thick, creamy, and luscious.
I can affirm without hesitation that this pudding is probably the ultimate, nay, the zenith of the chocolate/orange pairing.

Are you one of the skeptical ones about the chocolate + orange combination?
It’s time to get on board.

Chocolate Chia Orange Pudding                                                                            Print this recipe!

Note about the sweetness factor. In my opinion, 2 tablespoons of honey are more than enough; but that’s between you and your sweet tooth.

Ingredients 
Serves 2
¾ cup freshly pressed orange juice
2 to 3 tablespoons raw organic honey (or maple syrup)
1 ripe avocado (I used Hass avocado)
½ cup raw cocoa powder
1 teaspoon ground chia seeds
Orange zest and cocoa nibs for topping

Directions

In a blender (or food processor) combine orange juice, honey, avocado, cocoa and chia seeds.
Blend until smooth and silky — you may need to stop the blender and mix with a spoon from time to time, to help the blending process.
Divide pudding among ramekins/cups and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (this allows the chia to thicken).
Top with orange zest before serving.

Nutrition facts

One serving yields 315 calories, 15 grams of fat, 54 grams of carbs and 7 grams of protein.