We always make HUGE batches of bean and pea soup and keep quarts in the freezer... in fact we have a few in there now.
The other big thing I want to have on hand is lots of energy balls!
Here's how it's done:
It's not a strict recipe at all. You can substitute any kind of nuts or nut butter you like and add other dried fruits or flavorings if you want. I think the dates are fairly essential to hold it all together with the right level of sweetness, but you can try it without if you hate dates. Just add more honey.
Here are the approximate quantities I used in the batch I made for class:
1 cup raw cashews (raw nuts have a more neutral flavor)
1 cup (packed) pitted dates
3/4 cup peanut butter
1/2 cup wheat germ
2-3 spoonfuls honey (or maple syrup, etc)
1 spoonful cocoa powder
Process the cashews in a food processor or blender until they are practically like nut flour. Pour into a big mixing bowl. Process the dates in the processor until they are in little pieces (the littler the better - it is easier when they are room temperature). If you don't have a food processor, just chop the dates finely. Add to mixing bowl, along with the rest of the ingredients. Mix well with a spoon or fork. Taste and adjust quantities to your liking. You might need to adjust the consistency too - add more peanut butter if it's too dry, add more wheat germ if it's too wet. I've also used a couple of spoonfuls of water if I thought I already had plenty of peanut butter. Some people add powdered milk to the recipe too, if you don't care about it being vegan.
Roll into balls with clean hands. Sometimes I roll the balls in powdered coconut at this point if I'm feeling fancy.
They will keep in the fridge for at least 3-4 weeks.
Enjoy! It's pretty healthy with a fair amount of protein (from nuts & wheat germ). I love them for snacks, munchies, dessert cravings... And I'm planning on loving them even more when I'm exhausted and nursing around the clock!
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