Full of superfoods such as chia seeds, this smoothie is the ultimate healthy indulgence.
Ingredients (Serves 2)
- 400ml almond milk
- 5 dates, plus water for soaking them
- 1 dessert spoon of organic cocoa powder
- 1/2 dessert spoon of chia seeds
Method
- Remove stones from dates (or check for remnant pieces, if using pitted) then cover with water and soak.
- When the dates have plumped up, pour them into a blender with their soaking syrup.
- Add the chia seeds and the almond milk…and blend.
- Pour into two glasses and serve.
Chia seeds were a staple grain of the Aztecs and Mayans. High in soluble fibre and a good source of protein and omega 3 fatty acids but low in calories, they contain potassium and calcium.
Cocoa, another Aztec/Mayan food was made into a bitter drink called xocoatl. Containing epicatechin, an antioxidant that helps to prevent heart disease, cocoa can reduce cholesterol and high blood pressure. Cocoa also contains phenylethylamine, a feel good brain chemical released when we are in love…or eating chocolate.