My teenager decided to go vegetarian about six months ago. Since then I have tried finding creative ways to make sure she gets enough protein in a day. And to her credit she’s been game to try things far outside what was previously her comfort zone.
As the school year approaches – with lots of Covid uncertainty – I am putting my focus into quiet tasks to quell my anxiety. Figuring out what to pack in her school lunch is a good place to start.
Obviously nut proteins are out but these energy/protein balls have Tahini (ground sesame seeds) as their base. Tahini is mild tasting, packed with protein and is great with honey. These little guys are super easy to make. They taste like chocolate chip cookie dough and have 3 grams of protein in every ping pong sized ball and most importantly, she loves them. Right now, I will celebrate these small victories.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup tahini
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tsp vanilla
- 1 1/4 cup oats
- 2 TB – 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
- pinch of salt
- 2 TB chocolate chips
- Optional additions: chia seeds, hemp hearts or if you don’t want to use protein powder you could substitute 2 TB coconut flour.
Directions
In a medium bowl mix together tahini, vanilla, honey, salt and protein powder and mix until smooth.
Add oats and chocolate chips (and seeds if desired). Stir till well combined and mixture holds together in a ball.
Roll into balls and store in the fridge. Enjoy! Makes about 20 balls.
** Tahini is like natural nut butters in that it separates into oil and solids. Make sure to mix the tahini till the oil is well distributed before using in the recipe.
crumbs by kim 