Rustic Seeds & Oatmeal Bread

Rustic Seeds & Oatmeal Bread

Rustic Seeds & Oatmeal Bread

If you miss the hearty texture of rustic multigrain bread but need to follow a gluten-free lifestyle, this recipe is just what you need. Instead of relying on traditional flours, it uses wholesome rolled oats and a variety of nutrient-rich seeds like sunflower, flax, chia, and pumpkin. These ingredients come together to provide not only a lovely texture but also a nutritional powerhouse.

Oats are an excellent source of dietary fiber, particularly beta-glucan, known for its role in regulating blood sugar levels and improving heart health. When combined with seeds rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, this bread supports digestion, offers long-lasting energy, and promotes overall well-being. The combination of these seeds also contributes to heart health due to their omega-3 fatty acids, making this bread a nourishing addition to any meal.

Why should oats be part of your regular diet? Oats are packed with essential nutrients such as manganese, phosphorus, and magnesium, which are vital for maintaining bone health and metabolic function. Their high fiber content can help improve digestion and keep you full for longer, making them a great option for managing hunger and supporting a balanced diet.

Whether you pair this bread with your favorite cheese, butter, spread, or topping, it’s a versatile choice for any meal, providing both taste and health benefits.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (90 g) rolled oats
  • 2 tbsp (16 g) sunflower seeds
  • 2 tbsp (18 g) pumpkin seeds
  • 2 tbsp (12 g) flaxseeds
  • 2 tbsp (18 g) chia seeds
  • 2 tbsp (16 g) sesame seeds
  • ½ tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp (8 g) instant yeast
  • 1 tsp honey
  • 1 ¼ cups (315 ml) lukewarm water
  • 1 tbsp psyllium husk
  • 1 ¼ cups (115 g) oat flour

Directions:

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine rolled oats, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, flaxseeds, chia seeds, sesame seeds, salt, instant yeast, and honey. Pour in lukewarm water and stir until everything is well mixed.
  2. Cover the bowl and let the mixture proof for 1 hour. The oats and seeds will absorb the liquid, becoming soft and sticky.
  3. Once proofed, add the psyllium husk and gradually incorporate the oat flour, stirring gently until the ingredients are fully combined.
  4. When the dough begins to form, use your hands to shape it into a smooth, sticky ball.
  5. Sprinkle oat flour onto a baking pan and place the dough ball on it. Dust the dough with more oat flour to help shape it further.
  6. Cover the dough with a kitchen towel and let it proof for 30 to 45 minutes. It will rise slightly.
  7. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Bake the bread for 45 minutes, or until it turns golden brown and has a crispy crust.
  8. Once baked, transfer the bread to a cooling rack and let it cool completely before slicing.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Proofing Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Baking Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 10 slices

Nutritional Information (Per Slice):

  • Energy: 128 calories
  • Protein: 5.21 g
  • Fat: 5.21 g
  • Carbohydrates: 16.31 g
  • Fiber: 3.7 g

Storage:

  • Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • If refrigerated, it will last up to 1 week.
  • For longer storage, freeze individual slices for up to 3 months.
  • To enjoy a crispy texture, reheat slices in a toaster.

Special Notes:

  • This recipe is gluten-free and vegan-friendly. Perfect for those looking for a healthy bread alternative without compromising on flavor. ​
Chickpea Pizza Crust

Chickpea Pizza Crust

Chickpea Pizza Crust

Pizza is an all-time favorite, but let’s face it—traditional crusts often come loaded with refined flour, which can leave us feeling sluggish and unsatisfied. That’s why this chickpea pizza crust is a game-changer. By swapping out the usual refined flours for nutrient-packed chickpeas, this gluten-free option gives you all the satisfaction of pizza without the guilt.

Chickpeas bring a wealth of nutrition to the table: they’re high in plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making this crust both filling and nourishing. Whether you’re looking to boost your protein intake, avoid gluten, or simply enjoy a healthier take on pizza, this recipe has you covered.

What sets this chickpea crust apart is its balance of texture and nutrition. It bakes up with a soft yet crispy finish, perfect for holding all your favorite toppings without getting soggy. Plus, chickpeas have a low glycemic index, which helps regulate blood sugar, ideal for anyone who wants to indulge while staying mindful of their diet. If you’re looking to make pizza night both delicious and nutritious, this chickpea crust will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

Nutritional Benefits of Chickpeas
Chickpeas are a powerhouse legume that should be a regular part of your diet. They’re an excellent source of protein, especially for those following a plant-based lifestyle, and they help promote satiety, keeping you full longer. They’re also rich in fiber, which aids digestion and supports heart health. Chickpeas are loaded with vitamins like folate, essential for cell function, and minerals like iron, which are crucial for preventing fatigue and maintaining energy levels. Incorporating chickpeas regularly can help balance blood sugar and reduce cholesterol, making them an ideal addition to your meals, even in pizza crusts!

Ingredients

For the pizza crust:

  • ½ cup (90 g) raw chickpeas or 1 cup soaked chickpeas
  • ½ cup sour cream or yogurt
  • 1 egg
  • ⅛ tsp. salt
  • 1 tbsp. olive oil
  • ½ tsp. baking powder

For the toppings:

  • ½ cup (125 g) tomato sauce
  • 1 tsp. dried oregano (or pizza seasoning)
  • 60 g shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 15 g black olive slices
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Directions

  1. Soak the raw chickpeas overnight in room-temperature water. They will double in size, yielding about 1 cup of soaked chickpeas.
  2. Drain and rinse the chickpeas thoroughly the next day.
  3. Blend the chickpeas together with sour cream, egg, and salt until smooth.
  4. Add the olive oil and baking powder, blending until just combined.
  5. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C), grease a baking dish, and line it with parchment paper.
  6. Pour the chickpea mixture into the dish, smoothing out the surface evenly.
  7. Bake for 30 minutes until the crust is golden and fully cooked.
  8. Allow the crust to cool slightly, then spread the tomato sauce evenly over it.
  9. Sprinkle oregano on top, followed by the mozzarella cheese and olive slices.
  10. Bake for another 10 minutes or until the cheese melts. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Slice and enjoy!

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 30 minutes + 10 minutes
Servings: 4 slices

Nutritional Information (per slice):

  • Calories: 240
  • Protein: 11.24 g
  • Fat: 13.05 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20.02 g
  • Fiber: 3.6 g

Storage and Recommendations:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
  • The crust can be pre-baked and frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it before adding toppings and baking.

 

Chickpea Energy Bars

Chickpea Energy Bars

Chickpea Energy Bars

If you’re on the lookout for a snack that’s both nutritious and easy to make, these Chickpea Energy Bars are an excellent option! Whether you need a quick post-workout snack or a tasty energy boost throughout your day, these bars will hit the spot. Combining roasted chickpeas, almond chunks, creamy peanut butter, and a hint of maple syrup, they offer a delicious blend of flavors and textures.

Chickpeas, the star of this recipe, are not only high in protein but are also rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They’re an excellent plant-based protein source, ideal for anyone looking to maintain balanced energy levels and support muscle repair.

Including chickpeas in your diet can also help with digestion, thanks to their high fiber content, and can assist in maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Plus, they provide a good dose of iron, making them a great ingredient for those focused on boosting their iron intake.

Why should chickpeas be part of your regular diet? Chickpeas are a nutrient powerhouse. They support heart health by reducing bad cholesterol levels, offer sustained energy due to their low glycemic index, and promote gut health with their fiber content. Including them regularly can contribute to a healthy, balanced diet and offer long-term health benefits.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (180 g) raw chickpeas (soaked overnight or used raw)
  • ½ cup (75 g) roasted almonds or your nut of choice
  • ⅛ tsp. salt
  • ⅛ tsp. cardamom powder
  • ⅛ tsp. cinnamon powder
  • ⅓ cup (80 g) peanut butter or your nut butter of choice
  • 6 tbsp. maple syrup or honey

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 330°F (165°C) and line a baking tray with parchment paper.
  2. Use raw or soaked chickpeas. If soaked, rinse, strain, and pat dry.
  3. Spread chickpeas on the tray and roast for 60-75 minutes, stirring occasionally. Let cool completely.
  4. Blend the cooled chickpeas into a fine flour using a coffee grinder or food processor.
  5. Chop the roasted almonds into small chunks and set aside.
  6. In a bowl, mix chickpea flour, chopped almonds, salt, cardamom, and cinnamon.
  7. Add peanut butter and maple syrup to the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth and sticky.
  8. Press the mixture into a parchment-lined 22 cm x 12 cm container, smoothing the surface.
  9. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, then cut into bars and enjoy!

Prep Time:
20 minutes

Cooking Time:
60 minutes for roasting

Chilling Time:
At least 3 hours in the fridge

Servings:
Makes 10 bars

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Energy: 191 calories
  • Protein: 7.1 g
  • Fat: 8.95 g
  • Carbohydrates: 22.28 g
  • Fiber: 3.6 g

Storage:

  • Store the chickpea bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.
  • For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months and thaw as needed.
  • Perfect as a post-workout snack or a quick energy boost throughout the day.
Coconut Mini-Cakes

Coconut Mini-Cakes

Coconut Mini-Cakes

If you’re in the mood for something sweet but also looking for a treat that’s wholesome and satisfying, these coconut mini-cakes are exactly what you need. Light, fluffy, and naturally sweetened with maple syrup, these cakes are a delightful way to indulge without the guilt. With just a handful of ingredients, they come together quickly, making them perfect for busy mornings, afternoon snacks, or even as a guilt-free dessert after dinner. Each bite offers the perfect balance of sweetness and texture, with the eggs providing a soft and airy base, while the shredded coconut adds a subtle crunch and tropical flavor that feels like a mini escape with every bite. Whether you’re enjoying them fresh out of the oven or the next day, these little cakes will easily become a staple in your recipe rotation.

But beyond their delicious taste, these mini cakes pack a nutritional punch thanks to their star ingredient: coconut. Coconut is more than just a tropical delight—it’s a nutrient powerhouse. Rich in healthy fats, especially medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), coconut can help boost your metabolism and provide sustained energy throughout the day. The high fiber content supports digestion and can help maintain a healthy weight by promoting feelings of fullness. Plus, coconut contains important minerals like manganese, which is essential for bone health and supports the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

Including coconut in your regular diet can have numerous health benefits. It’s great for heart health, as the fats in coconut may improve cholesterol levels by increasing HDL (good) cholesterol while reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol. It’s also believed to have antioxidant properties, helping to reduce inflammation in the body and promote overall well-being. So, not only are you treating yourself to a tasty snack, but you’re also feeding your body with essential nutrients that support long-term health. These coconut mini cakes are a perfect way to enjoy something sweet while giving your body the nourishment it deserves. Plus, they’re gluten-free, making them a wonderful option for those with dietary restrictions.

So, the next time you’re looking for a treat that’s as delicious as it is nutritious, look no further than these mini coconut cakes—simple to make, packed with good-for-you ingredients, and sure to satisfy every craving!

 

Ingredients:

  • 2 eggs
  • 1/3 cup maple syrup (or equivalent sweetener of your choice)
  • 1 cup (100 g) finely shredded coconut
  • 1/4 tsp. vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp. baking powder
  • 15 g white chocolate (optional, for topping)

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and add the maple syrup and vanilla extract.
  3. Whisk until fully combined, and the mixture becomes slightly frothy.
  4. Gradually add the finely shredded coconut to the egg mixture, stirring continuously until the batter becomes airy and sticky. Ensure all the coconut is evenly coated.
  5. Prepare the mini cake cups by lightly brushing them with oil to prevent sticking. Optionally, line each cup with parchment paper for easier removal.
  6. Spoon the coconut batter into the prepared mini cake cups, filling each cup evenly but not too full to allow for slight expansion. Use the back of a spatula to press gently to smooth the surface.
  7. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until the tops turn golden brown.
  8. Transfer the mini cakes onto a cooling rack and allow them to fully cool.
  9. If desired, garnish the cakes with a drizzle of melted white chocolate before serving.

Prep Time, Baking Information, and Servings:

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Baking Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 6 servings

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

  • Energy: 190 calories
  • Protein: 3.38 g
  • Fat: 13.06 g
  • Carbohydrates: 16.57 g
  • Fiber: 2.9 g

Storage:

  • Store the mini cakes in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
  • For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.

Notes:

  • These mini cakes are perfect for afternoon snacks or a breakfast treat.
  • For a gluten-free and dairy-free option, you can omit the white chocolate or replace it with a dairy-free alternative.
Apple Ring Pancakes

Apple Ring Pancakes

Apple Ring Pancakes

There’s nothing quite like starting your day with a stack of warm, homemade pancakes, but these Apple Ring Pancakes take breakfast to a whole new level. Imagine biting into a fluffy, golden-brown pancake, only to discover a sweet, tender apple slice nestled inside, pure comfort on a plate.

These pancakes combine the natural sweetness of apples with the hearty texture of oat flour, creating a breakfast that’s both indulgent and nourishing. With every bite, you get the perfect balance of soft apple and crispy pancake, making it an irresistible option for both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re enjoying them plain, topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon, or drizzled with maple syrup, these pancakes are sure to become a regular in your morning routine.

At the heart of this recipe is oats—a powerhouse ingredient that adds far more than just flavor. Oats are an excellent source of dietary fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which has been shown to lower cholesterol levels and support heart health. This makes oats a smart choice for those looking to improve cardiovascular well-being. Beyond their heart benefits, oats provide a steady release of energy, helping to keep you full and focused throughout the morning without the spikes and crashes caused by refined grains. They also help in stabilizing blood sugar, making them a great choice for individuals who are mindful of managing their glucose levels. Oats are naturally gluten-free, making this recipe accessible to those with gluten sensitivities or anyone seeking to add more nutrient-dense, whole grains to their diet. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile and can be used in everything from breakfast bowls to baked goods.

By including oats in your regular diet, you’re not just adding a whole grain; you’re embracing a food that nourishes your body from the inside out. Their high fiber content supports gut health, aiding in digestion and promoting regularity. Additionally, oats are packed with important vitamins and minerals like manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, and zinc, all of which contribute to your overall well-being. So when you whip up these Apple Ring Pancakes, you’re not only treating yourself to a delicious breakfast but also making a health-conscious choice that will leave you feeling great throughout the day.

Ingredients

  • 1 egg
  • ½ cup (115 g) applesauce
  • ¼ cup sour cream or yogurt
  • 1 cup (90 g) oat flour (or rolled oats blended into flour)
  • 1 tsp. baking powder
  • ½ tsp. vanilla extract
  • 2 large apples (about 240 g)
  • Half a lemon (for rubbing on apple slices)

Directions

  1. Blend rolled oats into flour or use oat flour.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine the egg, applesauce, and sour cream. Mix until smooth.
  3. Gradually add the oat flour, baking powder, and vanilla extract to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; the batter should be thick.
  4. Let the batter rest while you core and slice the apples into 0.5 to 0.7 cm rings. Rub the slices with lemon.
  5. Preheat a nonstick pan over low heat.
  6. Dip each apple slice into the batter, ensuring an even coating.
  7. Place the apple slices on the pan and cook for about 2 minutes or until the edges begin to dry.
  8. Flip and cook the other side for another 2 minutes until golden brown.
  9. Continue flipping if needed to ensure even cooking. Repeat with the remaining slices and batter.
  10. Serve warm with your choice of toppings.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes (pan cooking)
Servings: 10 pancakes

Nutritional Information (Per 1 Pancake)

  • Energy: 68 calories
  • Protein: 2.44 g
  • Fat: 1.75 g
  • Carbohydrates: 11.11 g
  • Fiber: 1.4 g

Storage and Recommendations

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
  • Freeze for up to 1 month; reheat directly from frozen.
  • Enjoy with your favorite toppings like cinnamon apples or maple syrup.