In our house, we are a BIG fan of easy-to-make and easy-to-enjoy snacks… and let’s face it, with a toddler and a baby snacks for mum are absolutely key for survival. The snacks, no matter what they are do have to tick a few requirements 1) good fats, 2) protein 3) flavour, and these balls hit all three!
This recipe is also nut free so great for kiddos needing to avoid nuts, however, they do contain sesame seeds and tahini which can be an allergen. some schools are also sesame free but if not, these balls can make their way into lunch boxes and after-school snacks.
We are also using real dried apricots, which are sulfur-free and why they have more of a brown colour rather than the bright orange ones which are usually on supermarket shelves. you can find the sulfur-free apricots at health food stores and now in most supermarkets.
THE GOOD STUFF:
Dried Apricots: are a delicious source of plant-based iron as well as Vitamin A
High Fibre: The coconut, sesame and chia seeds are all brilliant sources of fibre.
Turmeric: Turmeric is naturally anti-inflammatory and great for gut health, immune health, and general well-being. Turmeric requires good fat for optimal absorption, the addition of tahini and coconut oil naturally supports this process.
Calcium: sesame seeds and tahini (sesame seed paste) are a delicious source of calcium
This recipe is nut free, gluten free, grain free, paleo, refined sugar free
I N G R E D I E N T S
2 cups (roughly 250g dried sulpher-free apricots)
2 cups shredded coconut
2 tablespoons chia seeds
2 tablespoons turmeric powder
2 tablespoons tahini paste
2 tablespoons sesame seeds
4 tablespoons protein powder of choice (I used NutraOrganics Family friendly protein)
pinch of salt
M E T H O D
- In a food processor, add the dried apricots and blitz for a few moments to chop roughly. Add in the remaining ingredients and blitz until a rough crumb texture.
- with the machine off, use your hands to squeeze the mix and see if it is sticky enough. If still a little dry, add in a little extra tahini and process to mix again.
- using your hands, roll the mixture into balls OR if you want to save time and enjoy them faster, place the mixture into a lined tray and press down.
- Place balls (or tray) into the fridge to set for 10-15 minutes and enjoy.
Recipe by Alyce Cimino | Naturopath and Owner of AHARA HEALTH