For those of you who crave chocolate, but are seeking something that is not as indulgent as candy, this recipe is for you. I made it for breakfast this morning, but it would be equally good as an afternoon snack or a dessert. The almond butter makes it especially tasty, but would be just as delicious using peanut butter or none at all.
Bananas alone are high in potassium, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber. But the unsweetened Cocoa happens to be a healthy food too. It is not only touted as a powerful antioxidant but also contains flavonoids which are also known as polyphenols which are of a class of phytonutrients known to protect health and fight disease.
Dairy-free, gluten free, guilt-free, and quite tasty. Its a good for you treat. Cheers.
| Chocolate Banana Smoothie | |
| Serves 2-3 | |
| Adapted from The Cancer-Fighting Kitchen (Crown Publishing Group; 2009) by Rebecca Katz | |
| I have provided options for most of the ingredients in my personal order of preference. Use what is available to you and convenient for your dietary needs and likes. | |
| 3 cups | almond, coconut, or rice milk, unsweetened |
| 2 | frozen bananas |
| 2 tablespoons | raw cacao or unsweetened cocoa powder |
| 2 tablespoons | almond or peanut butter (optional) |
| 1 tablespoon | ground chia or flax seeds |
| 1/2 teaspoon | agave nectar, maple syrup, or brown rice syrup |
| 1/4 teaspoon | pure vanilla or almond extract |
| pinch | sea salt |
| 4 | ice cubes |
| Put all of the ingredients into a blender and process until smooth. Serve immediately. | |
| Options: | |
| Make it more chocolaty by adding an extra 1/2 tablespoon of cocoa powder. | |
| Add a scoop of whey protein powder for more protein. | |
