Unbaked Energy Bars
This is like a raw flapjack, though you wouldn't believe it from looking at the photos. I have used prunes for a change here, I am starting to think we have a date obsession in this country. Prunes have a lower GI rating than dates meaning they will raise your blood sugar levels less, contrary to their reputation are no higher in fibre than other dried fruits. So bring on the prunes!!
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp goji berries
- 120g prunes
- 2 tbsp melted coconut oil
- 1 tbsp milled seeds
- 200g porridge oats
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp good quality vanilla
- 1 tbsp your choice of nut butter, or tahini
- 2 tbsp cacao nibs (or good quality dark chocolate)
Method
- Soak the dried fruit in enough water to cover them, for half an hour.
- Drain the fruit but reserve the water.
- In a large bowl, using a handblender whizz the soaked dried fruit and melted coconut oil.
- Add all the other ingredients and mix really well, until the oats are well covered in the mixture and everything feels a little moist and sticky.
- If its too dry, add enough of the reserved fruit water to make get to a good texture. I added 2 tablespoons.
- Line a 20 cm square tin with baking paper and press the mixture firmly in.
- Chill until hard then mark into squares.
Servings:
12
Ready In:
10 mins + 30 mins soaking
Good For:
Anytime
Health Benefits
Cacao is an amazing food, packed full of nutrients. Do not confuse cacao with its lesser cousins such as milk chocolate, this is a health food that we should all be eating. Eaten raw, cacao has 1 of the highest levels of antioxidants of any foods—great for good moods, anti ageing, hair & nails, the liver, boosting metabolism, & protection from heart disease.
Oats are higher in protein & healthy fats than most other grains, rich in many vitamins. Eat them for your heart, your gut, your bones, your brain. They are filling, so great for weight control & slow release energy.
Goji berries (also known as wolfberry's) have been used in Chinese medicine for centuries to treat many ailments such as kidney problems, high cholesterol, low energy. Not surprising as gojis contain 18 amino acids, 11 minerals, 6 vitamins + phytonutrients. Amazing for such a little berry—and so tasty
Prunes (dried plums) are notorious for being high in fibre (actually they are no higher than dates). Did you know they are also brilliant for anyone looking to balance blood sugar levels, they have a much lower GI than dates. Also full of Vitamins K, A + iron. Everyone should eat more prunes!
