Banana and Carob Chip Cookies

These are very simple and easy to make. I use tahini (sesame paste) quite a lot. Tahini is very healthy since the sesame seeds are rich in manganese, copper, and calcium and contain vitamin B1 (thiamine) and vitamin E. They also include antioxidants, and are good for those who have arthritis. They can also reduce levels of bad cholesterol. Tahini, although high in fat includes only half the amount you find in butter for example so are a healthy option if you are trying to reduce your intake of fat. The fats are of course mono-unsaturated (not saturated like butter). I use dark tahini since it contains a higher amount of calcium (88 milligrammes for each teaspoon) instead of 37 milligrammes if the seeds are hulled. Sesame seeds also include zinc which are important for healthy bones. The cookies themselves are of course also very nice!!

You can use dark, organic chocolate instead of the carob if you prefer. Carob is a nice alternative to chocolate as it doesn't contain any stimulants. You can find carob in most health food stores (it looks similar to a chocolate bar).

The cookies are egg free, lactose free, nut free and vegan but include tahini/ sesame seeds which some people are allergic to.

Note that you will need a food processor or a blender to make this recipe.