With autumn almost behind us and festivities drawing near, we share a warming recipe from The Healthy Chef Teresa Cutter. Get cooking with the finest grade whey protein isolate (WPI) and be generous with your flurry of cinnamon – word is, it improves insulin’s efficiency. Full power ahead with these protein balls.
This recipe is a power-packed protein ball recipe from my new cookbook. It’s loaded with protein at 10g per serving and also high in superfood goodness that’s bursting with antioxidants. I normally whip up a batch at the beginning of the week because it’s a fantastic grab-and-go snack if I’m rushing around and need a little sustenance, or purely just to satisfy any sugar cravings when the afternoon munchies hit.
What’s great about these protein balls?
Almonds
Almonds are rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant that helps protect the body against free radicals, as well as protein to help sustain lean muscle and repair the body.
Healthy Chef protein
I use the finest grade of grass-fed, cold-pressed WPI available in the world. It’s the only one available in Australia that has naturally occurring digestive enzymes, making it suitable for people with digestive issues such as lactose intolerance. Our pea protein is entirely raw, alkaline and plant based, containing all the essential amino acids your body needs to heal and nourish in a perfect environment. It’s also sprouted and fermented so it’s kinder to sensitive digestive systems. See how much protein you need every day on The Healthy Chef Protein Calculator.
Pure vanilla bean
Pure and fragrant vanilla bean powder from Tahiti and Madagascar is organically grown, naturally cured and sun dried, then ground into the purest fragrant powder available. Vanilla helps relax the nervous system and reduce inflammation. It is rich in antioxidants and also enhances mental performance.
Cacao is the highest known antioxidant food on the planet, rich in magnesium, iron, copper, manganese, riboflavin and essential micronutrients for health and vitality. The high flavenoid content of cacao has been scientifically linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes. Cacao contains theobromine, which boosts endorphins and increases mental alertness.
Maca
A Peruvian herb used to promote energy and stamina, maca supports the immune system, adrenal and thyroid function and stabilises hormone levels. It has antioxidant properties and is a wonderful herb to support the body during periods of stress. Maca is rich in zinc, iron, calcium, magnesium, thiamine, riboflavin, and vitamins C and E.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon improves insulin’s efficiency, which helps regulate blood sugar levels. Cinnamon can also help boost brain activity.
What you need
330g raw whole almonds or walnuts
60g Pure Native WPI or organic pea protein
20 fresh dates, pitted
3 generous tbsp raw cacao or my Naked Chocolat (contains maca)
1 tsp natural vanilla paste
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Pinch of flaked sea salt
1 orange
Coconut, goji berries, cacao, nuts, Healthy Chef matcha for rollingHow to make them
- Throw almonds into the food processor with cinnamon, protein powder, a little orange zest and Naked Chocolat and then process until the mix looks crumbly.
- Add dates and vanilla extract and then process again until the mixture starts to come together.
- Add the juice of 1/2 an orange if needed, so that the mixture forms a soft ball.
- Form into 14 decent-sized balls.
- Roll in coconut or any other of my suggested coatings and store in the fridge until you feel like a snack or quick meal on the run.
- Store in the fridge for up to four weeks (if they last that long!).
Notes and inspiration
- Add 1 tbsp of Healthy Chef Organic Superfood.
- Blend 2 power balls with 1 cup of cold-pressed almond milk or coconut water and frozen banana for the most delicious power-packed smoothie.
See more at https://www.thehealthychef.com/2011/09/protein-power-balls/#sthash.snaOkhNY.dpuf
About the Chef
Teresa Cutter, aka The Healthy Chef, is one of Australia’s leading authorities on healthy cooking. An experienced chef, as well as a nutritionist and fitness professional, she combines her knowledge of food, diet and exercise to develop delicious recipes that maximise health and well-being. thehealthychef.com
Look out for even more wonderful recipes from Teresa Cutter coming very soon to the FitPro blog…
