We are on a mission to prove nutritious is delicious! You absolutely must try this raw chocolate brownie recipe, submitted by OrganicLives Holistic Nutritionist, Jen Walker. Jen has been inspired by her fellow nutritionist Chris Brown while attending school together at the Institute of Holistic Nutrition. Jen says, "Chris generously nourished our brains and souls, now it’s my turn to pay it forward, Enjoy!"

Ingredients

Yield: 12 servings

1.5 cups organic Walnuts (optional for a nut-free dessert)
(It is also ideal to soak the walnuts for 8-12 hours before using them)
10-12 organic Medjool Dates (pitted)
(If dates are hard, soak for 15-30mins in warm water to soften)
1/2 cup organic Cacao Powder
1 Tbsp organic Coconut Oil
2 Tbsp organic Hemp Seeds
1 tsp organic, bio-dynamic Vanilla Powder, or 1.5 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

1.    Process walnuts in food processor until fine and crumbly, make sure not to process too long
2.    Add the remaining ingredients except the dates and process for 30 seconds
3.    Now add the dates a couple at a time until mixture begins to stick together, you may want to scrape down the sides a few times to ensure that everything is mixing evenly
4.    Transfer mixture to a square glass pan, distribute evenly and  firmly press mixture into pan
5.    Place in fridge to set for 30 mins.  Cut into squares and enjoy!!
Variation:  Instead of making the mixture into squares, roll into small balls and cover with coconut flakes, more hemp seeds, or cinnamon.  Place in the freezer to have as a quick energizing snack!

Nutrition Information


These super simple tasty treats aren’t only amazingly delicious; they’re good for you too!!  (Don’t tell your kids that though!) 

Medjool dates are a low/medium glycemic carbohydrate making them an excellent snack to refuel and reenergize throughout the day.  They contain dietary fiber that not only promotes a healthy digestive tract but helps to stabilize blood sugar levels to avoid cravings.  They are also a good source of potassium, magnesium, and manganese.

Cacao Powder is a true Superfood! It is the highest food source of Magnesium, a mineral deficient in 80% of the population, which is responsible for balancing brain chemistry, building strong bones, and regulating heart beat & blood pressure.  Cacao is also rich in the chemicals Phenylethylamine (PEA), which is released by our brains when we are in love, and Anandamide which has been coined the “Bliss Chemical” because it is naturally released from our brain when we are feeling great and promotes relaxation.   Overall cacao promotes a positive outlook, facilitates rejuvenation & simply helps us feel good!  A great substitute for coffee in the morning!

Walnuts contain the essential Omega 3 fatty acids that reduce inflammation in conditions such as arthritis, cardiovascular and irritable bowel disease.  Omega 3’s are also essential for optimal cognitive function and mental clarity. 

Hemp Seeds are an incredible plant-based source of complete protein.  They contain all 20 amino acids including nine of the essential amino acids that our bodies cannot produce. They have a perfect 3:1 ratio of Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids for supporting cardiovascular health, reducing inflammation and general strengthening of the immune system.

Coconut Oil is very nourishing to the immune system due to its antiviral, anti-fungal and antibacterial properties.  It also contains medium chain fats that increase the speed of the thyroid and metabolism, thus allowing the body to drop excess weight and accumulated toxins.

Every ingredient is available online or at our Health & Wellness Centre at the Quebec Street Organic Lives location!  

Submitted by: Jen Walker

Jen Walker is a Holistic Nutritionist at OrganicLives, in beautiful Vancouver B.C.  Because not one person is exactly the same, Jen’s approach focuses on holistic wellness, carefully considering your individuality when personalizing your road to health and happiness. Through her down-to-earth style and ability to make healthy eating FUN and EASY, Jen is able to present the information in a way that you will understand and leave you feeling empowered to make simple yet transformational changes to your lifestyle. You can find Jen in the Health and Wellness Centre at the Quebec Street Organic Lives throughout the week. She loves to chat about anything nutrition and golf-related so come say hi!

If you are interested in learning for recipe ideas and nutrition facts, join us at the OrganicLives Education Center for some upcoming events!

If you have seen any awesome recipes along these same lines, feel free to comment below to share with our community: