Chocolate, coconut & quinoa treats

Let me share with you this delicious and healthy treat made with chocolate, coconut, and quinoa! If you're looking for a way to satisfy your sweet tooth without compromising on nutrition, try this recipe. It combines quinoa and coconut with the indulgent taste of chocolate.

Chocolate, coconut & quinoa treat recipe

Ingredients

1. ¼ cup coconut oil
2. ¼ cup pure maple syrup (or less if you prefer)
3. ⅓ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
4. ½ cup almond butter (or nut/seed butter of choice)
5. ½ cup cooked quinoa (use absorption method*)  
6. 1 cup coconut flakes

Instructions

• Cook the quinoa using the absorption method
• In a small sauce pan melt oil, syrup, cocoa powder, then add the almond butter
• Whisk gently until smooth
• Remove from heat
• Add the quinoa to the mixture and the coconut flakes
• Put the mixture on a parchment paper and flatten the mixture
• Pre-cut and put in the freezer for 30 minutes.

Advice: It is better to keep it in the freezer so it’s stays firm!

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Nutrition facts

Quinoa = protein, dietary fibre, vit E & B6, zinc, magnesium & potassium
Coconut = healthy fats, fibre, vit C, B6 & folate, potassium, magnesium, iron & zinc
Almond butter = healthy fats, protein, vitamin E, fibre, calcium, potassium, & magnesium.
Warning: when you buy almond butter, make sure it's pure without added sugars, preservatives, and other unhealthy additives that can detract from its health benefits. All you need is one single ingredient and it's almond!

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Interesting facts about Quinoa

Quinoa originated in the Andean region of South America, where it has been cultivated for over 5,000 years. It was brought to Europe in the 16th century by Spanish conquistadors, but it remained relatively unknown outside of South America until the late 20th century. Quinoa has become trendy in Europe and other parts of the world in recent years due to its high nutritional value, versatility in cooking, and popularity among vegetarian and gluten-free diets, as well as its reputation as a "superfood."

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Buy fair trade quinoa

make sure you buy fair trade quinoa to ensure that the farmers are paid fairly for their work and have access to safe working conditions, healthcare, and education. It also helps to promote sustainable farming practices and support local communities.

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Cooking quinoa using the absorption method

The absorption method involves cooking the quinoa in a liquid until it is all absorbed. Here's how to cook quinoa using the absorption method:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water or broth

Instructions:

1. Rinse the quinoa in a fine mesh strainer under cold water for a few seconds. This will remove any bitterness and debris from the grains.
2. For every 1 cup of quinoa, use 2 cups of water or broth. This will ensure that the quinoa cooks evenly and absorbs all the liquid.
3. Place the quinoa and the measured liquid in a medium-sized pot and bring to a boil.
4. Once the liquid comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Simmer the quinoa for 15-20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed.
5. Once the quinoa has absorbed all the liquid, remove the pot from the heat and let it stand for 5-10 minutes.
6. After letting the quinoa stand, remove the lid and fluff the quinoa with a fork.

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