I have a very good friend who although doesn’t have children she knows what a tired new mom needs. Yes, lots of energy! My eating habits are almost back to normal but I still eat unhealthy snacks few times a week. So, Zsófi, my friend gave me the best present: these vegan date protein balls. Oh my, they are yummie.
Not only delicious, they are full of protein. Hemp seeds (or powder) provide a rich source of gluten-free protein loaded with essential fatty acids and fiber. In addition, hemp seeds contains vitamins such as C, E, B1, B2 and carotene, which are in a fat soluble digestible form and trace minerals such as phosphorous, calcium, potassium and magnesium. (Read more about the benefits of hemp protein here.)
I asked Zsófi to share her recipe with us. She used this recipe from Green Kitchen Stories as a base but changed a few things. These balls are simple, guilt free, “pick me up” snacks.
Vegan Date Hemp Protein Balls
Ingredients
– 80 g pumpkin seeds
– 50 g dried shredded coconut
– 65 g hemp protein powder
– 2 tablespoons grated flax seeds
– 1 tablespoons bee pollen
– 2 tablespoons cacao powder
– 1 tablespoon grated poppy seeds
– 1 tablespoon rolled oats
– 15-20 pieces dates and dried plum, pitted
– 3 tablespoons coconut oil (room temperature)
Method
In a dry non-stick pan toast pumpkin seeds for 6-8 minutes. In a food processor pulse the pumpkin seeds and set aside.
Add dates, plum and coconut oil to the food processor and run until smooth. Place the mixture into a bowl and add the dry ingredients: pumpkin seeds, grated flax seeds, shredded coconut, hemp protein powder, bee pollen, cacao powder, grated poppy seeds and rolled oats. Stir until well combined.
Form little balls with your hands and rolled them in desiccated coconut, cacao powder or oats. Eat them straight or keep them in a box in cool place (or refrigerator).
