Welcome

Sunday, March 20, 2016

Almond Maca Energy Bites



Over the last months I have done a lot of research on nutrition and the benefits of the so-called super foods. In times, where high performance is key, I was wondering where I could get my energy from and more precisely, which foods I could get it from. I am not a fan of energy drinks or supplements, that's why I got interested in which foods could provide me with what elements in order to stay energized the whole day.

 At some point I discovered Maca, a root cultivated in a narrow, high-altitude zone of the Andes in Peru. This root was already cultivated 2500 years ago. The Incas, cultivated, dried and transformed it into powder for centuries, and it has emerged as one main source of income for the people of the Andes.


Maca has many benefits, but the one I was interested in was its boosting effect. For centuries it has been used to fight fatigue among the indigenous peoples. Combined with dates, almonds, and chia seeds it makes up for a perfect snack. These additional ingredients provide also loads of goodness to compose this healthy snack. Chia seeds for instance are loaded with Omega-3 fatty acids, protein and fiber as well as various micronutrients. The dates however are a great source of potassium and rich in copper. They also contribute to keep you full for a long time hence curbing the cravings. 

Now you know which power-packed snack I consume. I can assure you that 2-3 balls keep you going for hours. As this recipe is in regular rotation in my home, I have offered these balls, to some of my friends. It would also make a great recipe for my 'Gifts from the Kitchen' section. My friends also recommend them as pre- or post-workout snacks, which I can perfectly understand for the reasons mentioned above. 


 For about 30 balls you need:

460g roughly chopped Medjool dates
270g raw almonds
45g cacao raw powder
2,5 tbsp almond butter
2 tbsp coconut oil
2tbsp maca powder
2tbsp chia seeds


Place the almonds into your food processor and pulse until they're completely crushed. Pit the dates, chop them and add them to the food processor. Pour in the cacao powder, almond butter and coconut oil, pulse again until all the ingredients are well-combined. Now add the chia seeds and maca powder and mix again until you get an even mixture.

Place the mixture into a medium sized bowl. Now roll the mix into equally sized balls. In order for the balls to set well, place them into the freezer for 45 minutes. Then put them into an airtight container and store in the fridge. 

Enjoy!!!!



 photo s_04.jpg  photo s_05.jpg  photo s_06.jpg