Contributing Writer for Wake Up World
This isn’t just any old high protein treat, it’s a superfood extravaganza – high in essential fats and antioxidants. In fact, it is so insanely healthy, I have to pinch myself when that decadent flavour hits my palate!
I am a big fan of foods that not only infuse my body with an abundance of nutritional goodness, but taste good too. The modern world has been polluted with so many unhealthy, addictive foods to allure and diminish our health… so for those of us who have turned the tables and reclaimed our well-being with conscious cuisine – let’s show the world how delicious healthy food can be!
Before we delve into the recipe below, let’s look at what all the fuss is about and explore what’s in this high powered protein ball…
Hemp protein powder: hemp is one of the most complete proteins in the plant food kingdom, containing ALL 21 known amino acids, including the 9 essential amino acids required for health. Hemp protein powder is a protein superstar, whilst also helping to bind these delicious treats together.
Flax seeds: an awesome source of omega 3 essential fats (omega 3 has been shown to have healthy heart benefits). Flax seeds also contain up to a whopping 800 times more lignans than other plant foods. Lignans are not only known for their antioxidant properties, but they also have powerful estrogen qualities, making them very supportive for hormone health.
Chia seeds: one of the richest plant-based sources of essential fats; a high quality protein food and loaded with antioxidants; chia seeds are one of my favourite seeds and work as a warmly welcomed bonus to this recipe.
Almonds: with an impressive line of up minerals, vitamins and antioxidants, almonds also come as a desirable addition to this medley of super-foods. They have a pleasant, nutty sweetness that works well here. I use freshly ground almonds, which helps to retain their awesome nutritional profile, whilst helping to hold all of the ingredients together.
Raw Cacao: chock-full of antioxidants, healthy fats, protein, polyphenols, minerals and vitamins, cocoa brings yet another incredible line up of super-food nutrition to these protein balls. The theobromine in cacao helps to stimulate the central nervous system, relax smooth muscles and dilate the blood vessels. Chemicals naturally present also encourage serotonin and other neurotransmitters that help inspire a good-mood and relieve depression. Cacao (which is the raw form of cocoa) contains various components like alkaloids, proteins, beta-carotene, leucine, linoleic, lipase, lysine, and theobromine, that all work together to improve physical and mental health.
Maple syrup: a natural, unrefined sweetener, much healthier than its distant, refined sugar cousins; used here to bring all the ingredients together with a gentle infusion of sweetness. This can be changed to your favourite healthy syrup sweetener if preferred.
Vanilla extract: I’ve added the smallest amount of quality vanilla extract into the blend to add a little necessary liquid, and subtle treat like extra flavour at the same – just because I can.
Raw Power Protein Balls Recipe
These super healthy raw protein balls with cacao, chia seeds, hemp seeds, flax seeds and almond, sweetened with a little maple syrup, are high in protein, essential fats and antioxidants.
Details:
- Prep time: 5 mins
- Total time: 5 mins
- Recipe type: dessert, healthy snack
- Cuisine: raw vegan, vegan, gluten free, dairy free
- Serves: 7 bites sized balls
Ingredients:
- 2 teaspoons hemp protein
- 2 tablespoons ground flax seed
- 1 teaspoon chia seeds
- 5 tablespoons ground almonds
- 2 tablespoons cacao
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (or alternative)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Extra ground almond for rolling (optional)
Instructions:
- Grind almond and flax seeds with a nut mill or high powdered food processor (or alternatively if you don’t have a grinder you can purchase pre-ground versions).
- Add all ingredients into a small mixing bowl and then mix together thoroughly using the back of a spoon and a downward pressing motion. Keep pressing and mixing until everything is moist and evenly combined. This may take a minute or two, so do stay with it.
- Divide into seven teaspoon sized parts and roll into balls (either with or without the extra ground almonds to roll in as preferred).
- Pop in the fridge or enjoy immediately any time of the day.
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