Introduction
Anti-Inflammatory Energy Balls are a convenient and delicious way to boost your energy levels while incorporating ingredients known for their anti-inflammatory properties. These bite-sized snacks are perfect for a quick pick-me-up during the day, post-workout recovery, or as a healthy treat to satisfy your sweet tooth. Packed with nutrient-dense ingredients like turmeric, ginger, chia seeds, and nuts, these energy balls are not only flavorful but also contribute to reducing inflammation in the body. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the ingredients, preparation steps, and tips to make the perfect Anti-Inflammatory Energy Balls at home.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- Medjool dates: 1 cup, pitted
- Raw almonds: 1/2 cup
- Raw cashews: 1/2 cup
- Old-fashioned rolled oats: 1 cup
- Almond butter: 1/2 cup
- Honey or maple syrup: 1/4 cup
- Chia seeds: 2 tablespoons
- Ground flaxseed: 2 tablespoons
- Coconut oil: 2 tablespoons, melted
Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients
- Ground turmeric: 1 teaspoon
- Ground ginger: 1 teaspoon
- Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (enhances the absorption of turmeric)
Optional Add-Ins
- Unsweetened shredded coconut: 1/4 cup
- Dark chocolate chips: 1/4 cup
- Dried cranberries or raisins: 1/4 cup
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Sea salt: 1/4 teaspoon
Equipment
- Food processor: For blending ingredients
- Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurements
- Baking sheet or plate: For chilling the energy balls
- Parchment paper: To prevent sticking
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Pit the Dates: Ensure your Medjool dates are pitted. If they are not soft, soak them in warm water for about 10 minutes to soften them, then drain thoroughly.
- Measure the Ingredients: Measure out all the ingredients, ensuring you have everything ready before you start blending.
Step 2: Blend the Base Ingredients
- Process the Nuts: In a food processor, add 1/2 cup of raw almonds and 1/2 cup of raw cashews. Pulse until they are finely ground, resembling a coarse meal.
- Add the Dates: Add the pitted dates to the food processor with the ground nuts. Pulse until the mixture starts to come together and forms a sticky paste.
- Incorporate Oats and Seeds: Add 1 cup of old-fashioned rolled oats, 2 tablespoons of chia seeds, and 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed. Pulse again until everything is well combined.
Step 3: Mix in the Binding Ingredients
- Add Almond Butter and Sweetener: Add 1/2 cup of almond butter and 1/4 cup of honey or maple syrup to the mixture. Process until the mixture is well combined and forms a thick, sticky dough.
- Add Coconut Oil: Add 2 tablespoons of melted coconut oil and process again until the oil is fully incorporated.
Step 4: Incorporate Anti-Inflammatory Ingredients
- Add Spices: Add 1 teaspoon each of ground turmeric, ground ginger, and ground cinnamon to the mixture. Also, add 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper to enhance the absorption of turmeric. Pulse until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Step 5: Add Optional Ingredients
- Mix in Add-Ins: If using, add 1/4 cup of unsweetened shredded coconut, 1/4 cup of dark chocolate chips, 1/4 cup of dried cranberries or raisins, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt. Pulse briefly to combine, ensuring the add-ins are evenly distributed but not overly processed.
Step 6: Form the Energy Balls
- Shape the Balls: Using a tablespoon or a small cookie scoop, scoop out the mixture and roll it between your palms to form balls about 1 inch in diameter. If the mixture is too sticky, you can lightly oil your hands or chill the mixture for 10-15 minutes to make it easier to handle.
- Chill the Balls: Place the formed energy balls on a baking sheet or plate lined with parchment paper. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 7: Store and Enjoy
- Store the Energy Balls: Once the energy balls are firm, transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- Enjoy: Enjoy these Anti-Inflammatory Energy Balls as a quick snack, pre- or post-workout fuel, or a healthy dessert.