I'm always looking for a drink to cool me down on a hot day. I need something that I can drink at anytime during the day. A fruit smoothie is great in the morning after a work out, but sometimes they have too much sugar and will spike your blood sugar too much if you are sipping on one in the afternoon. The delicious flavor from the spices and nuttiness from the hemp seeds pair perfectly together.
If you aren't familiar with hemp seeds, I would would definitely recommend giving them a try. They are a great source of healthy fats, protein and minerals. I love to put them in smoothies, in granola on yogurt or sprinkled in a salad. In a plant based diet, it is important to combine different forms of protein. Hemp seeds are a great source of high-quality protein; 3 tbsp. of hemp seeds contain about 10 grams of protein and are one of the few plant sources that are considered a complete protein. There are so many health benefits from hemp seeds that have been heavily researched, if your interested in learning more I would really recommend looking into everything they have to offer.
Be sure to check out my notes on the recipe for some extra tips.
This recipe is a great way to change up your smoothie game. I hope you enjoy it!
Hemp Seed and Chai Spiced Smoothie
Serves 1
Ingredients:
1 cup almond milk (or you milk of preference)
2 tablespoons chia seeds
2 tablespoon hemp hearts
2-3 Medjool dates, pitted
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
2 handfuls of ice cubes (8 cubes)
Directions:
1. In a high-speed blender, combine everything, except for the ice, and blend until completely smooth.
2. Sometimes the seeds don’t break down all the way, if that’s the case, then you can let them soak in the liquid for 15 minutes and then blend again.
3. Taste the mixture and adjust the flavor to taste, if necessary. (Keep in mind that the ice will dilute the flavor slightly.)
4. Add in the ice and blend again until a slushy-like texture is achieved. Serve immediately.
*Notes
- For the best flavor from your spices, toast them in small, non-stick sauté pan over medium low heat until fragrant. Be careful not to cook too long or they will burn.
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