Recipe By: @athomewithastghik
These protein balls are such a great way to eat lentils. Additionally, they’re packed with nutrients and great for the entire family to enjoy! They’re also great to pack in a lunchbox or for on-the-go snacking.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup uncooked green lentils, rinsed well
- 2/3 cup filtered water
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 15.5 ounces (1 1/2 cups) canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed with outer coating removed.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 4 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
- 1/2 cup unsalted organic creamy peanut butter
- 2 tablespoons cacao powder
- 1/4 cup mini semi-sweet chocolate chips
Method:
📝 Note: I recommend using a non-stick saucepan/pot to prevent the lentils from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
1. Add the rinsed lentils, water, and vanilla extract to a small pot. Bring to a boil.
2. Lower heat to low, cover with a lid and allow to simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the lentils have softened/cooked (making sure there’s a low boil or simmer).
📝 Note: If the lentils have softened, but there’s still some liquid left, remove the lid, increase the heat a bit and cook uncovered until all of the liquid has been absorbed/evaporated- for about 5-10 minutes.
3. Drain and rinse the chickpeas. Pat them dry with a paper towel and remove the exterior coating/skin.
4. Transfer the chickpeas and cooked lentils to a food processor and blend to help break them down a bit. Add the rest of the ingredients (salt, ground cinnamon, maple syrup, ground flaxseed, peanut butter, and cacao powder).
5. Pulse a few times until the mixture comes together.
6. Carefully remove the blade and transfer the mixture to a bowl. Add the mini semi-sweet chocolate chips and mix with a spoon.
7. Scoop 1 tablespoon of the mixture and form a ball with your hands.
8. Transfer this to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Continue this until all of the mixture has been used up.
📝 Note: you may also drizzle on some melted chocolate.
9. Transfer them to the refrigerator for an hour and enjoy.
📝 Note: Keep them in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
