Sesame and Nut Protein Bars
Every week in clinic I get asked for suggestions for high protein snacks
And every week I proceed to inform people that they don’t need to eat more protein – especially if they are not currently eating any fruit
However, I have to admit that when you are really hungry, a protein-based snack can help to keep you full for longer – and prevent you from getting “hangry”
So I give you my latest creation – my sesame nut protein bars…
A healthier, wholefood alternative to those high protein bars that are all too readily available these days and full of all sorts of ‘stuff’ you don’t want to be putting into your body
have one of these…AND a piece of fruit!
Sesame seeds are not only a great protein food, but they are also a great source of calcium
Nuts, including peanuts are a great protein food with the added benefit of healthy mostly monounsaturated fats
I threw in some coconut as sesame and coconut taste great together
And adding vanilla can help to bring out the flavour in food, especially when using only small amounts of sweeteners (i.e honey or maple syrup in this case)
I really hope you enjoy these bars – do let me know
- 1¼ cups (195 grams) sesame seeds
- ¾ cup (68 grams) dessicated coconut
- ¼ cup almonds (30 grams) or other nuts, chopped or pumpkin seeds
- ¼ cup (75 grams) peanut butter or tahini
- ⅓ cup (95 grams) honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste
- Heat oven to 170 degrees
- Line a 20 cm square tin with greaseproof baking paper
- Combine sesame seeds, coconut and chopped nuts in a large bowl
- Heat peanut butter and honey in a saucepan over low heat, stirring well until 'melted' and add to bowl along with vanilla paste
- Mix ingredients together well
- Press into prepared tin and bake for 20 minutes
- Remove from oven and allow to cool before cutting into squares
For a nut-free version, use pumpkin seeds in place of almonds and tahini in place of peanut butter
🙂 YUM!
