Description:
This recipe is great in December and during the New Year celebrations. While walnuts are harvested in December, they are available year round a great source of those all-important omega-3 fatty acids.
Walnuts are one of the best plant sources of protein. They are rich in fiber, B vitamins, magnesium, and antioxidants such as Vitamin E. Nuts in general are also high in plant sterols and fat - but mostly monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats (omega 3 fatty acids - the good fats) that have been shown to lower LDL cholesterol. Walnuts, in particular, have significantly higher amounts of omega 3 fatty acids as compared to other nuts.
No one knows for sure how cranberries became associated with holiday feasts, but historians guess that it had something to do with the Native Americans, who used cranberries not only for food and medicine but also to make dyes for clothing and blankets.
As far as healthy foods go, cranberries are at the top of the list due to their high nutrient and antioxidant content and are often referred to as a "super food." Not to mention, half a cup of cranberries contains only 25 calories!
The possible health benefits of consuming cranberries include lowered risk of urinary tract infections, prevention of certain types of cancer, improved immune function, decreased blood pressure and more.
Ingredients:
1-1/2 cup shelled walnuts
1 cup orange-essence dried plums (prunes)
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup chocolate-covered raisins (or plain raisins if preferred)
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
In a food processor with the knife blade, blend all ingredients until a dough-like ball forms.
Using your hands, roll into 1-inch balls.
Optional: Top each with a walnut piece.
Servings: 3 dozen balls
Nutrient Information:
per ball: Calories: 62 Protein: 1g Fat: 3g Carbohydrates: 8g Fiber: 1g
Special Diet: Vegetarian, High Iron, High Protein, High Fibre, High Omega Fats
Category: Holiday Recipes
Submitted By: OK In Health
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| Gluten-Free: Amaranth, Quinoa and Dark Chocolate Cake | Category: Gluten-Free
Description: Amaranth: This Central American ancient food has been cultivated for 8000 years, and is comparable to rice. Considered a grain, it is actually a seed. Amaranth is especially high in lysine, an essential amino acid most grains lack. Plus it is gluten free!
Amaranth is a pseudocereal that has been consumed as a grain since ancient times; the tiny buff-colored amaranth spheres were important in both Aztec cuisine and culture. Amaranth grains are rich in high-quality protein and minerals, and are naturally gluten-free.
The health benefits of Amaranth are that it is rich in Iron, Manganese, Magnesium, Potassium, and Phosphorus. It can be used ground as flour, cooked as a cereal, sprinkled on foods or even used as a thickener for soups. To cook, combine 1 part raw seeds to 2 1/2 parts liquid. Simmer 18-20 minutes, until soft. Amaranth may be toasted like pop corn and mixed with honey to make a treat called " alegria" which means "joy" in Spanish.
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