In my husband’s hockey playing days, chicken and pasta used to be the go-to pre-game meal. The combination of protein and carbs were needed to fuel his game and make sure he performed at his best. So, when I think of consuming enough protein, I automatically envision a dinner plate with meat, veggies and a whole grain. While there’s nothing particularly wrong with eating animal protein at a meal, it’s also not mandatory for getting what we need. Which is good for me because throughout the duration of my pregnancy, I have had a HUGE aversion to chicken. Just the thought of it raw or cooked makes me want to gag. But now, thanks to JifTM Peanut Powder incorporating protein into the diet has never been easier for those vegans, vegetarians or even moms-to-be with a meat aversion.
2016 is a new year, which also means a chance for a new me. Last year, I focused on what I put on my body and took on an all natural skin care routine. This year, I plan on paying better attention to what goes into my body. That means making sure that I get the daily recommended intake of essential nutrients, including protein.
JifTM Peanut Powder has the same amount of protein as the traditional peanut butter we all love (8 grams per 2 tablespoons of powder), but with 85% less fat and no added sugar or salt. It is the perfect way to add protein, and the delicious peanut taste, to a morning smoothie, baking and other snacks, like these easy, no-bake Banana Nut Protein Bites.
JifTM Peanut Powder has the same amount of protein as the traditional peanut butter we all love (8 grams per 2 tablespoons of powder), but with 85% less fat and no added sugar or salt. It is the perfect way to add protein, and the delicious peanut taste, to a morning smoothie, baking and other snacks, like these easy, no-bake Banana Nut Protein Bites.
Banana Nut Protein Bites
Yields: Approximately 12-15 bite-sized pieces
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 2 tbsp JifTM Peanut Powder
- 1-2 tbsp coconut palm sugar, or light brown sugar
- 2 tbsp real maple syrup, raw honey or agave nectar
- 1 small banana, mashed
- 1/4 cup nuts of choice, crushed (i.e. walnuts, peanuts, almonds)
- 1/4 cup low-fat or unsweetened dairy-free milk
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- pinch of sea salt
- 1/3 cup semi sweet chocolate chips (optional)
Directions:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, peanut powder, cinnamon, sea salt and sugar of choice. Mix well. Stir in your choice of maple syrup, agave nectar or honey. The mixture should now be quite crumbly.
- Add the mashed banana and crushed nuts. Mix well.
- Add the milk, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until thick batter is formed.
- If using, add chocolate chips and combine.
- Using clean hands, form mixture into bite-sized balls. Refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, or until firm, before eating.
- When not being consumed, keep refrigerated.
These Banana Nut Protein Bites are delicious - they have the taste and texture of a banana nut muffin, minus the oil, butter and unnecessary fats. For those with a sweet tooth, adding the semi-sweet chocolate chips is a must. These bites are the perfect portable mid-day snack!
JifTM Peanut Powder can be found on the top shelf in the peanut butter section of your local Walmart. The JifTM Peanut Powder lineup also includes a chocolate option, which contains semi-sweet chocolate with a dash of sugar. Perfect for those looking to satisfy their sweet tooth.
How do you ensure you get enough protein? Have you ever tried JifTM Peanut Powder? Check out more recipes using this alternative protein source here.
