Protein bites are a fantastic snack to keep you energised throughout the day. These bites are not only packed with nutrients but are also incredibly easy to make at home. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a healthy, no-bake snack that is both delicious and nutritious. Made with natural ingredients, these protein bites are suitable for vegans and can be tailored to fit a low-carb diet.

Ingredients List

• 3 tbsp peanuts
• 1 cup sesame seeds
• ¾ cup flaxseeds
• 300 grams pitted dates (khajoor)
• ¾ cup almonds
• 2 tbsp chopped pistachios
• 2 tbsp pumpkin seeds
• 2 tbsp sunflower seeds
• 2 tbsp chia seeds
• ½ tsp cardamom powder

Equipment Needed

• Pan for roasting
• Mixer or grinder
• Large mixing bowl
• Airtight container for storage

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Roasting the Peanuts: Start by dry roasting 3 tablespoons of peanuts in a pan until they become crunchy.
• Adding Sesame and Flaxseeds: Add 1 cup of sesame seeds and ¾ cup of flaxseeds to the pan. Continue to roast on a low flame until the seeds become aromatic and start to splutter.
• Cooling and Grinding: Let the roasted mixture cool completely, then transfer it to a mixer jar. Grind it to a coarse powder and set it aside in a large bowl.
• Preparing Dates Paste: In the same mixer jar, take 300 grams of pitted dates. If the dates are hard, soak them in warm water for 30 minutes before grinding. Blend the dates into a smooth paste and transfer it to the bowl with the ground seeds.
• Mixing the Ingredients: Crumble and mix the dates paste with the prepared powder thoroughly.
• Roasting Nuts and Seeds: In a pan, dry roast ¾ cup of almonds, 2 tablespoons of chopped pistachios, 2 tablespoons of pumpkin seeds, 2 tablespoons of sunflower seeds, and 2 tablespoons of chia seeds on a low flame until they become crunchy.
• Combining All Ingredients: Add the roasted nuts and seeds to the bowl with the dates and seed mixture. Sprinkle in ½ teaspoon of cardamom powder and mix everything well.
• Forming the Bites: Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into ball-sized ladoos.
• Storing: Store the protein bites in an airtight container. They can be enjoyed for up to a month.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 277 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 8g
• Monounsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0.005g
• Sodium: 6mg
• Potassium: 404mg
• Fiber: 8g
• Sugar: 15g
• Vitamin A: 10 IU
• Vitamin C: 0.3 mg
• Calcium: 186 mg
• Iron: 3 mg

Tips and Variations

• Nut Alternatives: You can use any nuts you prefer, such as cashews or walnuts, instead of peanuts and almonds.
• Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness by adding more or fewer dates based on your preference.
• Flavors: For a different flavor, add a teaspoon of cocoa powder or vanilla extract to the mixture.
• Storage: These bites can also be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature before consuming.
• Low-Carb Option: Reduce the amount of dates and increase the quantity of nuts and seeds to lower the carbohydrate content.

FAQs

Q: Can I use other types of seeds?

A: Yes, you can use any seeds you like such as hemp seeds or poppy seeds.

Q: Are these protein bites suitable for kids?

A: Absolutely! These bites are a healthy snack for kids as well.

Q: How long do these protein bites last?

A: When stored in an airtight container, they can last for up to a month.

Q: Can I add protein powder to this recipe?

A: Yes, you can add a scoop of your favorite protein powder to increase the protein content.

Q: What if I don’t have cardamom powder?

A: You can substitute it with cinnamon or leave it out entirely.

Conclusion

Homemade protein bites are a simple and nutritious snack that can be made with ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. This no-bake recipe is perfect for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle while enjoying a delicious treat. Experiment with different nuts and seeds to find your perfect combination, and enjoy these bites as a quick snack or a post-workout energy boost.