January 25, 2012

This family is in a breakfast rut. Our animal protein based egg breakfast sure is nice but sometimes you just want a little break. So, I decided to take to the kitchen. We were concerned that if we ate a carb-based meal, we would be left sluggish and would get hungry quicker than usual. So the light bulb went off…how about chia and hemp seeds!

The first attempt was just the other day and they sure were good. Everyone reported back and was of the same opinion – it worked. None of us were any hungrier than usual and actually we felt a bit more filled than normal (likely a benefit from the chia seeds). We all appreciated a break from the daily routine. Remember…breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Find it and enjoy!

Protein Breakfast Bars

gluten, grain, soy and dairy free, paleo friendly
vegan when made with maple syrup
yields 6-9 bars

Use This

¼ cup coconut oil

2 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon vanilla

1 cup almond flour

¼ cup milled chia seeds

¼ cup hemp seeds

¼ cup shredded coconut

¼ cup pumpkin seeds

¼ cup sunflower seeds

¼ cup raisins

½ teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon sea salt

Do This

Preheat oven to 350°. Line an 8×8 baking dish with parchment (or grease).

In a small pot, over low heat, combine oil, honey and vanilla; stir.

In a medium bowl, combine flour, chia, hemp seeds, coconut, pumpkin and sunflower seeds, raisins, baking powder and salt; mix well.

Pour oil mixture into dry mixture; mix well to combine.

Pour into prepared pan and gently press down (use wet hands so mixture doesn’t stick).

Bake 18-20 minutes; fully cool before slicing and serving.

Quick Tips: Cha-cha-cha-Chia. Did you know that chia seeds are one of the highest sources of omega-3 fatty acids? They are packed with protein, fiber and antioxidants. In one tablespoon, you’re taking in 3 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber. Chia seeds are an excellent source of calcium, manganese, and phosphorus. Add to baked goods, smoothies and more. For some more info visit Nutiva as they explain when this ancient super seed made its debut.

Change it up! Keep the measurements the same but swap your favorite nuts for the pumpkin and sunflower seeds. Not a fan of raisins? Leave them out or add a different dried fruit. Have fun, be creative and be sure to eat breakfast.

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