Raw vegan roll

Raw Vegan Roll with Nuts and Dates – A Fresh Delight for Warm Days

Imagine a summer day, the sun shining, and you don’t want to go near the oven. How about a delicious and healthy raw vegan roll that requires no cooking? This simple recipe, sugar-free and dairy-free, is sure to be the star of your summer meals. Perfect for impressing vegan guests or simply treating yourself, this roll is a low-calorie dessert full of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds.

Total preparation time: 6 hours (including soaking time)
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Refrigeration time: 4-5 hours (or 1-2 hours in the freezer)
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients

For the base:
- 300 g bran (you can use oat or wheat bran, depending on your preference)
- 200 g pitted dates, soaked
- 2 tablespoons melted cocoa butter (to get liquid cocoa butter, place the jar in a bowl of warm water)
- 1 tablespoon honey (or agave syrup for a vegan option)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

For the filling:
- 200 g soaked nuts (you can use pecans, almonds, or Brazil nuts)
- 2 tablespoons honey (or agave syrup)
- 1 tablespoon cocoa or carob powder
- 40 g raisins
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon melted cocoa butter

Instructions

1. Soaking the ingredients:
Start by placing the dates and nuts in two separate bowls with water. Let them soak for at least 2 hours. This will help soften the dates and activate the nuts, providing a richer taste and texture.

2. Preparing the base:
In a food processor, add the bran, soaked dates (drained), melted cocoa butter, honey, and cinnamon. Blend everything until you achieve a smooth and moist mixture. It’s important to ensure all ingredients are well integrated.

3. Forming the base:
Use aluminum foil to spread the bran mixture. Use your hands to shape it evenly, ensuring it’s not too thick, so the roll can be easily rolled up.

4. Preparing the filling:
In another food processor bowl, add the soaked nuts (drained), honey, raisins, cocoa/carob powder, cinnamon, and melted cocoa butter. Blend until you obtain a fine mixture. It’s normal to stop the processor occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl, ensuring everything is well mixed.

5. Assembling the roll:
Spread the nut cream over the base, leaving a small edge on each side. Carefully roll the mixture using the aluminum foil to help shape it. Once rolled, place the roll in the refrigerator for 4-5 hours or in the freezer for 1-2 hours to firm up.

6. Serving:
Use a sharp knife to cut the roll into slices. You can serve this raw vegan roll plain or accompany it with a sauce made from fresh fruits, such as a raspberry or strawberry puree, for a contrast of textures and flavors.

Practical tips

- Soaking: Don’t neglect the soaking stage for the dates and nuts. This not only improves texture but also enhances the nutritional value of the ingredients.
- Cocoa butter: Make sure to use quality cocoa butter, as this will influence the final flavor of the dish. If you don’t have cocoa butter, you can use coconut oil, but it will slightly change the texture.
- Variations: You can experiment with different types of nuts or add other ingredients like coconut flakes, chia seeds, or dried fruits to customize the roll to your taste.
- Serving: The roll pairs perfectly with a cup of iced green tea or a fruit smoothie for a healthy and refreshing meal.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This raw vegan roll is an excellent choice for a healthy dessert. Each serving contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Dates are a good source of fiber and antioxidants, while nuts provide protein and healthy fats beneficial for the heart.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I replace the dates with another sweetener?
Dates provide not only sweetness but also moisture. Replacing them with another sweetener might change the consistency of the roll. However, if you wish to experiment, you can use very ripe bananas or a mix of maple syrup and applesauce.

- Can this roll be frozen?
Yes, the roll can be frozen! I recommend slicing it before freezing so you can thaw individual portions when you crave it.

- What are the best ways to serve the roll?
You can serve it with a fruit sauce, with vegan ice cream, or simply alongside a refreshing tea.

Personal stories and memories

I remember when I made this roll for the first time for a summer picnic. My guests were delighted, and the kids even asked for a second serving! It’s amazing how a healthy dessert can bring so much joy. Every time I prepare this roll, I recall those joyful moments spent with loved ones.

Experiment and enjoy every step of this cooking process, and the result will surely be an unforgettable dessert!