Quinoa and Linseed Balls

‘Treat’ foods are often high in kilojoules, sugar and saturated fat. These kind of foods are best eaten occasionally because they don’t really contribute anything of nutritional value to your diet due to their low nutrient density.

I’ve created a lovely little recipe thats also got a good dose of kilojoules, sugar and fat, however, it contains exceptional amounts of good nutrition. These Quinoa and Linseed Balls are made from natural, minimally processed ingredients and contain no refined sugars, making them high in fibre, antioxidants, and packed full of mono- and poly-unsaturated fats, including omega 3. They’re also a good source of a range of vitamins and minerals making them both a treat and a nutrient boost all at the same time.

The ratio of carbohydrates to protein makes them a fantastic post workout snack.

Ingredients (makes 30)

• 2/3 cup red quinoa, dry (white and black varieties are also OK)
• 2/3 cup raw almonds
• 30 whole pitted date
• 2 tbsp boiling water
• 1 cup natural peanut butter (ingredients must be 100% peanuts)
• 2 tbsp linseeds (you could also use sesame seeds or chia seeds)
• 50g dark chocolate, melted

Method

• Combine quinoa with 1 & 1/3 cup water in a small saucepan and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes or until all the water has been absorbed. Set aside to cool.
• Add dates and boiling water to a food processor and process until the dates become a very thick paste or form a ball. Remove from the food processor and set aside.
• Add the almonds to the processor and process until it forms a corse mixture. Add the dates, quinoa and peanut butter to the almonds in the food processor and process until well combined. Add extra boiling water in very small amounts if the mixture is struggling to come together.
• Roll the mixture into balls and refrigerate.
• Meanwhile melt the chocolate in a microwave safe bowl on medium heat for 2-3 minutes, depending on the wattage of your microwave. Place into a piping bag and drizzle each ball with a small amount of chocolate and place back into the refrigerator. Enjoy!