Nut allergies have been around for many years (or pretty much forever), but up until now others have not really tried to accommodate them. Being nut free does not mean you have to sacrifice flavor or nutrition! Seeds, though smaller than nuts can pack quite a punch depending on how they are used. Sesame seeds can be used in both savory and sweet dishes due to their unique flavor. Pumpkinseeds make for both a delicious finger food and a crunchy yogurt topping. Sunflower seeds can add an extra dimension in salads or create a seed butter thats spoon lick'in good!
Medjool dates, despite their sweet and decadent taste contain a healthy amount of nutritional benefits. Copper, which helps the body create red blood cells, potassium, which can help regulate sodium levels and vitamin B-6, which helps to regulate the metabolism, all take a part of the nutrients contained in these sweet treats!
The more seeds the merrier, so I included as many delicious seeds as possible when thinking up this recipe! Sesame seeds actually contain more calcium than milk and contain magnesium, a nutrient essential for vascular and respiratory health. Sunflower seeds not only provide us with beautiful sunny flowers but also vitamin E, which helps inflammation, women going through menopause and decreases the risk of heart attacks and stroke. Pumpkin seeds contain a wide variety of phytonutrients, antioxidant support, antimicrobial benefits and can prevent diabetes and certain types of cancer!
Chia seeds are one of my favorites seeds! Ch-ch-ch-chia might come to mind, but these seed a little more than a household decoration. This Aztec and Mayan superfood contains heart healthy omega-3s while also providing fiber, protein, antioxidants and calcium! Chia seeds have also been shown to help prevent weight gain due to their high water absorbency and ability to suppress hunger.
Though carob powder might look similar to normal cocoa powder, I assure you it is something else. Carob powder has a naturally sweet yet chocolate-like taste, despite the fact that there is no sugar added! This unique superfood also contains antioxidants to help fight free radicals and promote healthy red blood cells! Since carob powder does not contain caffeine, it makes for a great alternative to chocolate!
Simply Nut-Free Carob Truffles
2 cups medjool dates, pitted
1/4 cup raw sunflower seeds
1/4 cup large coconut chips/ flakes
1/4 cup raw pumpkin seeds
2 tbs raw sesame seeds
2 tbs chia seed
4 tbs raw carob powder + more for rolling
2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp ginger
2 tsp raw maca powder (optional)
Instructions:
Add the coconut and seeds to a food processor and pulse until coarsely chopped. Next, add in the dates and continue to process until a paste has formed. Now, add in the spices and carob powder.
Gather your mixture and place it in a large bowl. Using your hands, start to roll the dough into bite size rounds. If desired, add some extra carob powder to a small bowl and toss it with some of the rounds to coat. Garnish with fresh mint and Enjoy!