Back in the Kitchen

Ever since we returned from our travels, I feel like I've been a real slacker in the kitchen. I'm admitting it. Gulp. For a few weeks, I've been lazy and reverted back to buying some of the food necessities... (necessities in my kitchen that is), which I had finally gotten accustomed to making before we left. Almond milk. Cereal (granola). Chreese Dip. Hummus. Snack foods. Sigh. Sigh. Well, slowly, but surely, I'm getting my mojo back. 

The granola came first. I always make the Mom's Granola recipe from this book, and I currently have a big batch sitting on the counter. Next, came the hummus, even though store bought hummus always tastes so much yummier and creamier. Then, today, I finally re-conquered the "power balls", aka fruit/nut balls that are high in fat and protein which my son will actually eat and enjoy eating while hopefully packing on the pounds! My awesome friend Christina was actually the first one to attempt to make these snacks, in the form of bars, and of course once I started making them, Kai still preferred to gobble hers up over mine any day. 

So, today, Kai and I set out to get back in the kitchen, and make some yummy snack food. Granted I did most of the work, but Kai did help me transfer each ball from my hand to the plate! And he even popped a couple in his mouth as he worked. Here's the recipe:


Power Balls


1. dried fruit (I used approx. 5 dates, 5 apricots, and a handful of cranberries). Place in hot (almost boiling) water for a minute or so just to soften. Then mash up with blender or by hand with knife.
2. nuts (I used a mix of almond slivers, cashews, and walnuts). Chop into powder in the blender.
3. oats- approx. 1/4 c. Chop with nuts in blender.
4. dried coconut flakes- approx. 1/4 c.
5. peanut butter and almond butter- approx. 1 spoonful of each
6. molasses- 1 spoonful (good for iron)
7. brown rice syrup or maple syrup- a small pour
8. ground flax seeds- generous sprinkle
9. carob powder (or cocoa powder)- 1 spoonful
10. Just mix everything together in a bowl, (or use a food processor), and roll into toddler bite-sized balls!


So simple, so yummy, so healthy. It tastes like a healthy cookie dough, except one that you can happily eat raw! Here's to hoping Kai still enjoys them tomorrow....

Maybe next week we'll conquer the almond milk.....