My Food Religion

This recipe has a fair few dates in it which means it is fairly high in carbohydrates…. STOP panicking now! Carbohydrates are NOT evil, we just need to make sure we are eating the RIGHT ones at the RIGHT time. Check out Trav’s Nutrition 101 post for more details. I have kept the ingredients low in fat and upped the protein with some protein powder to help stabilize our blood sugar levels and prevent too much of an insulin spike. Many studies have also shown that adding cinnamon also helps lower the GI of high GI foods like dates and assists in regulating blood sugar levels.

Raw cacao has more than 4 times the antioxidants found in green tea and more magnesium than any other whole food. Fresh dates are a great source of fibre, they contain tannins which are known to possess anti-infective, anti-inflammatory, and anti-hemorrhagic properties, as well as being an excellent source of iron, potassium & calcium.

20 fresh dates (pitted)
1/2 cup raw cacao
1 cup coconut
1/2 cup raw cacao nibs
1/4 cup chia seeds
1 tbs cinnamon
2/3 cup hot water
1/2 protein powder
1 cup coconut for rolling

In your food processor place dates & hot water and blitz, it should become a runny paste. Add all remaining ingredients except cacao nibs & coconut for rolling and process until completely combined. Add cocao nibs and process until just combined. Roll into balls in the remaining coconut. You can store these in the fridge or freezer. Enjoy.