Quinoa candy

Energizing Quinoa Candies: A Healthy and Tasty Delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooling time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 15-20

Welcome to the world of healthy delights! Today, I will introduce you to a recipe for energizing quinoa candies that are not only easy to make but also extremely healthy and nutritious. These candies are perfect for a quick snack, a sugar-free dessert, or even a healthy treat for the little ones. Quinoa, the main ingredient, is a grain rich in protein and fiber, and the combination with nuts and dates gives them an irresistible flavor. Let's get ready!

Ingredients

- 300 g cooked quinoa (approximately 1 cup of quinoa seeds cooked in 3 cups of water)
- 50 g almonds
- 10 pitted dates
- 2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 100 g coconut butter (or almond butter for a different flavor)
- 50 g coconut flakes (plus 50 g to coat the candies)

Recipe History

Quinoa candies represent a modern combination of traditional ingredients, blending cooking techniques from various corners of the world. Quinoa is known as a superfood, with origins in mountainous regions, while dates and nuts have been used for centuries in different cultures. This recipe not only preserves the essence of these ingredients but transforms them into a simple and tasty dessert, perfect for any time of the day.

Step by Step: Preparing Quinoa Candies

1. Preparing the Quinoa

The first step is to take care of the quinoa. Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove the saponins, which can give a bitter taste. Then, boil 1 cup of quinoa seeds in 3 cups of water. Let it simmer over medium heat for about 15 minutes or until the water is completely absorbed and the quinoa becomes fluffy. Allow it to cool.

2. Preparing the Mixture

In a food processor, add the cooked and cooled quinoa, almonds, dates, honey, cinnamon, and coconut butter. Blend everything at medium speed for about 5 minutes until the ingredients bind together and you get a smooth mixture. If it seems too dry, add a little more coconut butter or, for a vegan option, a splash of water.

3. Forming the Candies

On a plate, place the 50 g of coconut flakes. With wet hands (to prevent sticking), take a portion of the mixture and form balls the size of a walnut. Place each ball on the plate with coconut flakes and roll it until completely coated. This step will not only add an attractive appearance but also a crunchy texture.

4. Cooling

Place the formed candies in a container with a lid and refrigerate for 1 hour. This is the ideal time for the ingredients to settle and achieve a perfect consistency. After an hour, the candies are ready to be enjoyed!

Useful Tips

- Storing the Candies: These candies store well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks. If you want to keep them even longer, you can freeze them.

- Ingredient Variations: You can experiment with different types of nuts (walnuts, hazelnuts, or cashews) or add cocoa powder to create a chocolatey version. You can also try replacing honey with agave or maple syrup for a vegan option.

- For an Extra Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of sea salt or a few drops of vanilla extract. This will enhance the flavors and make the candies even more delicious.

Ideal Combinations

These quinoa candies are wonderful alongside green tea or fresh lemonade. You can also serve them as a dessert with natural yogurt or a fruity smoothie. Perfect for a party or picnic, these candies are sure to impress!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I replace quinoa with another ingredient?
- Yes, you can use oats or millet, but make sure to cook them first to achieve a similar consistency.

2. Can I make these candies without nuts?
- Absolutely! You can omit the nuts or replace them with sunflower or pumpkin seeds for an allergen-free option.

3. How healthy are these candies?
- These candies are rich in protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making them a perfect nutritious snack option.

In the end, don't forget to let your creativity flourish in the kitchen! These quinoa candies are just the beginning of a delicious journey towards healthy eating. Enjoy every bite and share this recipe with your loved ones. Bon appétit!