This is a dead-easy nutrient-dense snack that is extremely popular with both children and adults alike. Cacao goji bliss balls taste sweet and decadent but are also incredibly good for you, so it is OK to eat a few at a time! They are also a quick, no-cook solution to those seeking a healthy snack to give their children as they come out of school before their after-school activities. Great as a quick sweet fix after a meal when only chocolate will hit the spot.
It was a revelation to me when I discovered that chocolate is incredibly healthy for you! Chocolate in its raw form (AKA raw cacao) is one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet. Sadly, when it is heated and processed into the typical chocolate that we buy in the shops, it loses many of these health-giving properties, so if you are going to eat chocolate, please eat it raw.
Raw cacao is packed with iron, magnesium, manganese, zinc and chromium. Amongst its other numerous health benefits is that is contains Phenethylamine (PEA) which may play a role in increasing focus and alertness. It also contains naturally-occurring serotonin and tryptophan and this is why it may be very useful in lifting the mood. It is said that raw cacao contains the highest concentration of antioxidants of any food in the world.
The cashews in this recipe are excellent for slow-release energy and are packed with manganese, potassium, iron, magnesium, zinc and selenium. They contain B5, B6, B1 minerals and the antioxidant zeaxanthin with may help with eye health.
Goji berries are lovely and sweet, as well as packed with amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. They do not seem to harbour the same moulds as other dried fruit so may be suitable in small amounts even for those on a yeast-free regime. They are again packed with beta-carotene and zeaxanthin, lutein, lycopene and cryptoxanthin which can help to renew cells in the body.
The dates are a fantastic source of fibre. They give a good energy boost and are a source of iron. They also contain potassium which is important for cardiovascular health. Potassium may also help to relieve post-exercise muscle cramps.
- 175 grams Dates (Pitted)
- 150 grams Cashew Nuts
- 4 tablespoons Raw Cacao Powder
- 2 tablespoons Goji Berries
- Pop the first three ingredients into your food processor and pulse 10-15 times – some people like them finely blended and others like the nuts to be in larger pieces.
- Add 1 or 2 teaspoons of water if the mixture seems too dry and does not form into balls easily. Do not add too much otherwise they become very sticky.
- Mix the goji berries in by hand.
- Form into balls by squeezing together a heaped teaspoon of the mixture and then rolling in the palm of your hand.
Try to use organic ingredients wherever you can.
Buy raw cacao and goji berries from a health food shop or online.
