| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 0 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 400 | 28g | 12g | 30g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 18g | 6g | 10g | 0.5g |
As I was sifting through the family recipe box one afternoon, I stumbled upon an intriguing, nondescript recipe card titled “Golden Turmeric Energy Balls”. Hardly a typical addition to the rich tapestry of Boston seafood and warm Irish comfort foods that epitomize our family’s culinary traditions, the mere sound of it was thrilling enough to pique my curiosity.
A Family Legacy, Reinvented
Having grown up in a Boston-Irish household, my culinary exposures were limited to the sea’s bounty and hearty, stick-to-your-ribs Irish dishes. Discovering this exotic fruit-based energy ball recipe was akin to uncovering an unknown aspect of my family’s food narrative. Deciphering the recipe card, it dawned on me how this delectable snack ball fused the warmth of spices like turmeric and ginger with the tropical flavors of dates, coconut, and lemon, an exciting contrast to our traditional fare.
The Power of Whole Foods
What truly enamored me to this recipe, however, was the trove of beneficial ingredients. Each Golden Turmeric Energy Ball was a dense treat packed with whole foods known for their health benefits. Dates, naturally sweet and rich in fiber, provided a steady release of energy. Turmeric and ginger, renowned for their anti-inflammatory properties, were perfect for boosting overall well-being. Healthline’s coverage on turmeric certainly helped me appreciate the potency of this vibrant spice.
Perfect Pairings
While the Golden Turmeric Energy Balls are a great standalone snack, they also pair harmoniously with a host of other dishes. Served alongside a fresh fruit salad or as a sweet conclusion to a hearty corned beef hash, they add a sweet and vibrant counterpoint. These energy balls are also a delightful companion to a robust Irish Stout Stew, their fruity tang complementing the rich, savory broth.
Whether you’re seeking a healthful snack to fuel your day or a fun and fruity addition to your breakfast or brunch repertoire, I hope you’ll find as much joy in these Golden Turmeric Energy Balls as I have. Their unique and vibrant flavors have earned them a well-deserved place in our family’s culinary chronicles.
What You’ll Need
- 1 cup of Medjool dates, pitted
- 2 cups of cashew nuts, raw and unsalted
- 1/2 cup of shredded unsweetened coconut
- 1/4 cup of chia seeds
- 2 tablespoons of turmeric
- 1 tablespoon of ginger, ground
- 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt
- 2 tablespoons of coconut oil, melted
- 1/4 cup of honey or agave syrup
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Optional toppings: extra shredded coconut, ground turmeric or ground ginger
Method
Step One
Start by gathering all your required ingredients, then measure them out individually to ensure precise quantities.
Step Two
Take your cup of pitted Medjool dates and soak them in hot water for about 15 minutes to soften them. After soaking, drain them thoroughly.
Step Three
While the dates are soaking, take your cashew nuts and process them in a food processor until they achieve a coarse, crumb-like consistency. Be careful not to over-process and turn them into cashew butter.
Step Four
Add the soaked and drained dates to the food processor with the crushed cashews. Also include the shredded coconut, chia seeds, turmeric, ground ginger, sea salt, coconut oil, honey or agave syrup, and the zest and juice of your lemon.
Step Five
Process all the ingredients together until they form a thick, sticky mixture. If the mixture is too dry, add a little more honey or agave syrup. If it’s too wet, add more shredded coconut.
Step Six
Using slightly damp hands, take small amounts of the mixture and roll it into balls. Place the balls onto a lined baking sheet or into a container.
Step Seven
If desired, roll the balls into your optional toppings of additional shredded coconut, ground turmeric, or ground ginger for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Step Eight
Allow the balls to chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or until they are firm. Once chilled, these golden turmeric energy balls are ready to be enjoyed as a healthy snack or on-the-go breakfast!
