Hey fellow food adventurers!
Ever feel like you're dragging your feet through the day, desperately needing a boost that isn't a sugary, artificial disaster? Well, I've been there, and that's why I'm so excited to share this recipe for amazing Vegan Amaranth Energy Bars! These little powerhouses are not only delicious but packed with all the good stuff, leaving you feeling energized and ready to conquer the world (or at least your to-do list!).
My inspiration came from my very own partner's cycling escapades where meat and cheese seemed to be the only thing on offer. He was complaining about the lack of decent, healthy energy bars to fuel him through his rides, and that was my lightbulb moment! So here it is, the answer to all our prayers: a super easy, super tasty, and super good-for-you energy bar.
Why These Bars Rock:
- Quick & Easy: Seriously, you can whip these up in minutes. No baking required, just a food processor and a bit of elbow grease (or should I say, food processor grease?).
- Naturally Sweet: Dates provide the perfect sweetness, avoiding any refined sugar nonsense. Plus, that amazing sticky texture helps hold everything together!
- Nutrient Powerhouse: Puffed amaranth is the unsung hero here! It's a complete protein and gives you a good dose of iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and vitamin C. Who knew ancient grains could be so amazing?
- Customizable: Don't have almonds? No problem! Throw in any nuts, seeds, or dried fruit you've got. Get creative!
- Freezer Friendly: These bars are perfect straight from the freezer. A great way to cool down after a workout, and they're a great meal-prep snack.
Recipe:
Yields: 12 bars
Prep time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
- 250g (about 1 1/2 cups) pitted dates
- 90ml raw tahini
- 1 tsp fine sea salt
- 3 1/2 - 4 cups puffed amaranth
- A handful of chopped almonds, walnuts, or your favorite nuts (optional)
- A handful of pumpkin or sunflower seeds (optional)
- 1-2 tsp black or white sesame seeds (optional)
- 2 tbsp raw cacao powder mixed with 2 tbsp melted coconut oil (or melted vegan dark chocolate for drizzling)
Method:
- If your dates are dry, soak them in boiling water for 5-10 minutes. Drain well, squeezing out any excess water.
- Line a small tray (around 20cm x 15cm) with baking paper.
- Combine the drained dates in a food processor and process into a smooth paste. Add the tahini and salt and combine well.
- Transfer the mixture to a large bowl and add the puffed amaranth. Mix until you have a pliable dough. Stir in the nuts, seeds if using.
- Press the mixture firmly into your prepared tray, ensuring an even layer. Place a piece of baking paper on top and weigh down with something heavy.
- Freeze for 4-8 hours to set.
- Remove from freezer and slice into equal bars. Drizzle with melted chocolate if you're feeling fancy.
- Store in freezer in an airtight container.
Pro Tip: If you're not a fan of tahini, you can try substituting it with another nut or seed butter, such as almond or sunflower seed butter. Keep experimenting with your favorite combinations of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. The possibilities are endless!
So there you have it – a simple, delicious, and healthy way to keep your energy levels up. These bars are perfect for a quick breakfast, a mid-afternoon snack, or a post-workout boost. Give them a try and let me know what you think! Don't forget to tag me on social media! #VeganPowerBars #AmaranthEnergy #HealthySnacks