We all do our best to start the new year off with better and healthier eating habits. One of the best things you can do for yourself to insure a healthier you is to consider giving up processed sugar. It is a tough habit to break, but once you get yourself on the straight and narrow you will be able to go for months without it. But beware, just a little taste of a piece of candy can send you right back down the rabbit hole of sweet cravings in an instant.
The good news is that if you are ready to cleanse your body of sugar along with the unnecessary calories and inflammation it causes, it only takes a few days to get the taste for it out of your thoughts. If you are a real sugar junkie who is consuming much more than you are actually thought you were, those first couple days can be brutal. This is a great dessert to make for anyone who suffers from a sweet addiction and trying to kick the habit. The natural sweetness will satisfy your cravings and curb your appetite all at the same time.
Bananas are loaded with nutrients. They provide an excellent source of potassium which helps us to absorb calcium, protect our cardiovascular system, and maintain normal blood pressure. They are also high in vitamin B6 and dietary fiber. Almond butter, particularly if you use raw almond butter, will be an added source of protein, dietary fiber, calcium, magnesium, potassium, vitamin E, phytochemicals, and antioxidants. Blended together this is truly a dessert that is worthy of being part of your healthy New Year.
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Banana Almond Ice Cream Serves 4 |
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| 4 | frozen bananas, broken into 3-4 pieces each |
| 2 tablespoons | almond butter or peanut butter |
| 1 teaspoon | vanilla extract |
| pinch | sea salt |
| 8-10 | semi sweet chocolate chips, optional |
| 1 tablespoon | strawberry jam, fruit sweetened, optional |
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The best way to freeze bananas is to peel ripe bananas and place them on a dish in the freezer overnight. The next day, put the frozen bananas into a plastic zip bag and store in the freezer until you need them. I do this whenever there are ripened bananas on my counter. They are very handy to have for smoothies, banana bread, and this recipe for ice cream. Combine the bananas, almond butter, vanilla, and salt in the bowl of a food processor fitted with the metal blade or high powered blender. Process until the mixture is smooth. If using a blender, your will need to use the tamper to blend the frozen fruit. If using chocolate chips, add them in and process for another second or two. Freeze for about 1 hour before serving for firmer texture. Scoop the ice cream as you would any other sort of ice cream. Serve it with toasted sliced or chopped almonds and a drizzle of slightly warmed strawberry jam. Store leftovers in freezer and thaw slightly before serving. |
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