LCBO Food & Drink Spring 2020

RAISING THE BAR

MATCHA, COCONUT & HONEY ENERGY BITES

For those who haven’t baked with matcha before, matcha is powdered green tea leaves in their purest form. For this recipe, it is important to use a good- quality blend of matcha, as this will result in a much more pleas- ant and strong green tea flavour. Matcha is packed with anti- oxidants, boosts metabolism, and is rich in fibre. These energy bites make for the perfect healthy start to your morning or a great pick-me-up in the afternoon! ⁄ cup (125 mL) roasted, salted shelled pistachios ⁄ cup (125 mL) natural almond butter 6 pitted Medjool dates ⁄ cup (125 mL) unsweetened flaked coconut, plus more for rolling 3 tbsp (45 mL) raw honey 1 tsp (5 mL) pure vanilla extract 2 tsp (10 mL) good-quality matcha powder, plus more for dusting 1 Place pistachios, almond butter, dates, coconut, honey, vanilla and matcha in a food processor. Blend until mixture begins to come together, about 60 seconds. Refrigerate for 30 minutes to firm. 2 Shape mixture into 15 bite-sized balls. Roll balls in flaked coconut or dust with matcha powder, if desired. 3 Refrigerate until ready to eat. Store in an airtight container for up to a week.

Gluten-free + low sugar

IF YOUWANT TO TRANSFORMTHESE BITES TO A CHOCOLATE VERSION, SIMPLY ADD½CUP 125 L MINI DARK CHOCOLATE CHIPS OR COCOA NIBS TO BLENDEDMIXTURE IN STEP 1. PULSE 2 TO 3 TIMES TO BLEND BEFORE FIRMING AND SHAPING.

Makes 15 bites

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SPRING 2020 FOOD & DRINK