Mornings can be hectic. There are days when I am lucky to get out the door wearing matching shoes—let along eat anything. It’s at those times in particular I know I must grab something to eat along the way—and hopefully it’s beneficial.
Here’s my latest solution to eating on the run. It’s not designed as a meal replacement; it’s a tasty energy booster with food value that keeps me going until real food surfaces.
These wholesome raw bites are jet fueled morsels of sweet dates, toasted oatmeal, and my current fascination, tahini. Since I’ve gotten pretty gaga over tahini, I thought it best to do a little more research—and was amazed at its nutritional value.
Call it a seed butter, in that tahini is made from roasted sesame seeds which give it a high oil content. In a 2-tablespoon serving, this powerhouse contains 178 calories, 16 grams of fat, 6 grams carbohydrates and 5 grams of protein; with no sugar and 3 grams of fiber.
What that means, is tahini is high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats known to lower harmful cholesterol levels, as well as lower the risk of heart disease and strokes. It is rich in thiamine (30% of daily requirement), magnesium (24%), phosphorous (22%), iron (14%), and calcium (12% daily requirement). Tahini’s list of benefits goes on. It naturally helps lower blood pressure, aids in bone health and arthritic issues.
Yes, moderation is important, but in a full recipe of 20 or more Tahini Date Bites, only 1/3 cup of tahini is used. These are so satisfying that two or three sweet bites will certainly get the job done. I’m fortified, and ready to go the distance.
Tahini Date Bites
Few ingredients and simple to make, these hold well and improve with age. Suggested variations are noted.
Ingredients
1 cup Medjool dates (var include 2 Tbsp candied ginger), seed and chop well
1/3 cup tahini
1/3 cup honey
1 teaspoon vanilla
¼ teaspoon sea salt
1-3/4 cup oats, (var part almonds or other nuts) toasted
Finishing options
1 tablespoon cocoa powder (var pinch cinnamon)
1 tablespoon matcha tea powder
¼ cup raw coconut flakes
½ cup diced pistachio/pumpkin seed blend
Directions
- In a medium mixing bowl combine the dates, tahini, honey, vanilla and salt.
- Stir in the oats, it will be sticky.
- Divide into approximately 20 portions and shape into 1” rolls.
- Allow to chill in refrigerator for at least an hour to set.
- To finish, dust tops finish as desired. Yield: about 20.