Chocolate & Ashwagandha Protein Bites
Indulge in a Healthy Delight: Ashwagandha Chocolate Protein Bites
What is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a legendary herb cherished in Ayurvedic medicine for its adaptogenic and rejuvenating properties. Adaptogens like ashwagandha help the body resist stressors of all kinds, whether physical, chemical, or biological. This makes ashwagandha a popular addition to snacks like energy bars and these delightful chocolate bites. For more on the benefits of ashwagandha, check out my previous blog post here.
The Power of Adaptogens and Chocolate
Adaptogens are natural substances that help the body adapt to stress and exert a normalizing effect upon bodily processes. Incorporating adaptogens into your diet can enhance your overall well-being, reduce stress, and improve mental clarity and energy levels. Combined with the benefits of dark chocolate, which is rich in antioxidants and essential minerals, these chocolate protein bites offer a delicious way to boost your health.
Chocolate & Ashwagandha Protein Bites
Recipe credit: Mountain Rose Herbs
Makes 14 to 18 bites (depending on size).
Chocolate & Ashwagandha Protein Bites
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- ½ cup almond butter (or any nut butter of your choice)
- ¼ cup honey or maple syrup
- ¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp ashwagandha powder
- ½ cup chocolate protein powder (you can use plant-based or whey protein)
- ¼ cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
- ¼ cup chia seeds or hemp seeds
- 2 tbsp water (if needed)
Instructions
- Prepare the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the oats, cocoa powder, chocolate protein powder, ashwagandha powder, and chia or hemp seeds. Stir well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Add the wet ingredients: Add the almond butter and honey (or maple syrup) to the dry mixture. Use a spatula or your hands to mix everything thoroughly. If the mixture is too dry, add a couple of tablespoons of water to help it come together.
- Add chocolate chips: If you're using chocolate chips, fold them into the mixture at this stage.
- Form the bites: Use your hands to form small balls from the mixture, about bite-sized. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or any flat surface.
- Chill: Place the bites in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up.
- Enjoy: Once ready, enjoy your delicious Chocolate & Ashwagandha Protein Bites! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Looking for More Herbal-Inspired Recipes?
Check out this cooling Raita or Cucumber Relish for the summer and dive deeper into understanding how food can be used as medicine. Plus, discover tips for staying healthy while traveling and zero-waste backpacking and camping hacks.
Enjoy these delightful bites and embrace the benefits of ashwagandha and adaptogens in your diet! Thanks to Mountain Rose Herbs for their wonderful inspiration and recipe.
Like this recipe? If you could use a little extra help in planning out healthy meals that are personalized for you – check out my ultimate healthy personalized meal plans here!
In health,