Ok, this one is for all you Nutella lovers out there. Seriously — we're talking #healthyfoodporn at its FINEST. This smoothie is thick, creamy, and decadent with that wonderful rich hazelnut & chocolate flavour. But it is also low-carb, free of refined sugar, and packed with veggies & fibre, protein, and healthy fats! Here I have also added a couple natural adaptogens, maca powder and reishi powder (optional). Herbal adaptogens are believed to boost energy and mental clarity while improving the body's ability to deal with stress.
Why Maca Powder?
Native to Peru, maca has a slightly earthy, butterscotch taste and is rich in vitamins and minerals. Touted as the "Incan superfood", it has been used for millennia to increase stamina and endurance. Consumption may help to relieve anxiety while also boosting energy, concentration, and even libido and sexual function in both men and women.And What is Reishi?
Reishi powder is made from dried reishi mushrooms. These medicinal mushrooms have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years and are believed to have anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and tumor-inhibiting effects. Studies suggest that reishi mushrooms may help to strengthen the immune system, lower cholesterol, and improve liver function, concentration, sleep, and energy levels. More research is needed to assess the potential role of these and other herbal adaptogens in the prevention and treatment of diseases such as cancer.Crazy for Cacao
Cacao is the purest form of chocolate we can consume. It is free of all the unhealthy sugar and other additives found in most processed chocolate. Cacao is loaded with minerals such as magnesium and iron, as well as health-promoting flavonoids. These powerful antioxidants are believed to help reduce the risk of hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Furthermore, cacao both contains and triggers the release of natural feel-good chemicals in our bodies such as serotonin and phenylethylamine (PEA). PEA is the same neurotransmitter that is released when we fall in love!!Chocolate Hazelnut "Nutella" Smoothie
EASY | SERVES 2
Ingredients:
- 1.5 cups unsweetened almond or hazelnut milk (adjust to desired consistency)
- 1 frozen banana (optional)*
- 1 cup (or 2 cups if omit banana) steamed-then-frozen cauliflower*
- 2 scoops Enhanced Collagen (omit for vegan)*
- 2 Tbsp hazelnut butter
- 2 Tbsp natural peanut, almond or cashew butter
- 2 Tbsp raw cacao powder
- 2 Tbsp gluten-free flaxseed meal
- 2 tsp maca powder
- 1 tsp reishi powder (optional)
- optional stevia or other sweeteners as desired
Directions:
- Blend until smooth and add toppings if desired!
Tara is an avid traveller, fitness enthusiast, and aspiring chef who endeavours to inspire others to experience the joy & richness of life.
