Coconut Chia Butter Crackers: A Nutrient-Packed Soup Sidekick
As the seasons gently transition, there's nothing quite like cozying up with a warm bowl of soup. And what's the perfect companion for soup? Crackers! Today, I'm revisiting a beloved recipe from my Vega-Riffic food archives, now reshared here at Plant Based Flex. These Coconut Chia Butter Crackers are not only incredibly delicious but also gluten-free, vegan, and versatile – you can whip them up by hand or use a food processor, and choose to either dehydrate them for that extra raw goodness or bake them in the oven.
Healthy Benefits of the Ingredients:
Coconut Flour: Rich in fiber, it aids digestion and provides a steady source of energy.
Chia Seeds: Packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants for heart and digestive health.
Nutritional Yeast: A vegan source of B vitamins, including B12, which is crucial for nerve function.
Garlic Powder: Known for its immune-boosting properties and potential to lower blood pressure.
Parsley: High in vitamin K and vitamin C, contributing to bone and skin health.
Vegan Butter: Lower in saturated fats than dairy butter, making it a heart-healthy choice.
Coconut Chia Butter Crackers Recipe:
Ingredients:
1 cup of coconut flour (or any unrefined, plant-based flour of your choice)
1/2 cup chia seeds
1 tablespoon of vegan egg replacer (or DIY version with ground flax seeds)
1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
1 teaspoon sea salt or pink Himalayan salt
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon dried parsley (or half a bundle of fresh parsley, finely chopped after removing the stems)
1 1/2 tablespoons of prepared vegan butter (I used Miyoko’s vegan oat milk butter; you can also make your own)
3 cups of filtered water
How to Prepare:
In a large mixing bowl or food processor, combine all the dry ingredients thoroughly.
Add the liquid ingredients and mix until you achieve a fluffy, wet dough-like consistency.
Dehydrator Method:
Prepare the dehydrator sheet (also known as a teflex dehydrator sheet) and place it on the dehydrator tray.
Spread the dough mixture evenly over the sheet, creating a symmetrical, large square.
Score the square into rows and small cracker pieces.
Place the tray with the sheet into the dehydrator.
Set the heat to 145 degrees and dehydrate for about 14-24 hours, checking occasionally for dryness. The drying time varies based on the density of your crackers and your personal preference for cracker texture.
Once done, remove from the dehydrator and allow them to cool.
Carefully break the crackers apart and transfer them to an airtight container or serving dish. These can be kept on the counter for a few days or in the refrigerator for an extended shelf life.
Oven Method:
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
Place a sheet of parchment or wax paper on a cookie sheet.
Spread the dough mixture evenly over the sheet, forming a symmetrical, large square.
Score the square into rows and small cracker pieces.
Bake the crackers for about 20 to 40 minutes, keeping a close eye on them to prevent burning. Browning is fine and expected.
The baking time depends on the density of your crackers and your preference for texture.
Once they're finished baking, let them cool.
Gently break the crackers apart and transfer them to an airtight container or serving dish. These crackers can be stored on the counter for a few days or in the refrigerator for a longer shelf life.
Estimated Nutrition Facts (per serving, serving size is about 4 crackers):
Calories: 150
Total Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 200mg
Total Carbohydrates: 14g
Dietary Fiber: 7g
Sugars: 1g
Protein: 4g
Serving Suggestions:
Pair these crackers with your favorite soup for a hearty meal.
Enjoy them as a crunchy snack with your choice of dip.
Spread vegan butter or your favorite nut butter for a satisfying treat.
Storage Recommendations:
Keep these crackers in an airtight container.
On the counter, they'll stay fresh for a few days.
In the refrigerator, they can last even longer.
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can add other textures like seeds, nuts, or dried fruit to switch things up. "Raw" vegan crackers are simply fabulous, and I believe you'll enjoy them. Enjoy these Coconut Chia Butter Crackers with your favorite soup, as a snack, or with a spread of vegan butter. Peace! 😊
Disclaimer: The information in this recipe is for general guidance and informational purposes. It's not a substitute for professional dietary or medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare or nutrition professional for personalized recommendations.
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