Breakfast in a Glass

I know some people that are not keen on breakfasts and I have often told them that it is not a very good idea to start the day without filling your muscles and brain with energy. It's like driving your car without petrol and after some driving it will break down (or in our case, we will feel sluggish later in the day). These people have often complained that they don't feel like eating anything in the morning so I asked some of them if they might consider "drinking" their breakfast. That sounded a lot better they said. So, this is a smoothie which is really a breakfast in a glass and requires little effort. If you soak the dates the night before you are half way there! This drink contains complex carbohydrates, protein, vitamins, fruits (as a part of your five a day) and healthy fats. It is a very good start to your day. So...you see there is no excuse for not eating a good breakfast!

You will need a blender or a food processor to make this smoothie.


A delicious start to the day

This recipe is:

  • Egg free
  • Lactose (dairy) free
  • Nut free
  • Vegan

This recipe is easy to make:

  • Gluten free

Breakfast in a Glass

Serves 2 people

Ingredients

  • 20 grams (½ oz) oat meal
  • 5 grams (¼ oz) linseed (flax seed)
  • 200 millilitres (7 fluid oz) soy yoghurt (or regular yoghurt)
  • 125 millilitres (4 fluid oz) apple juice
  • 5 pitted dates, chopped coarsely
  • 1 small banana, very ripe
  • 2 teaspoons agave nectar
  • 1 tablespoon peanut butter (organic, without added sugar or salt)
  • A couple of ice cubes

Preparation

  1. Chop the 5 dates coarsely and place in a small bowl. Cover with warm water for 20 minutes (or over night).
  2. Place the ice cubes in a blender or food processor.
  3. Pour 50 millilitres apple juice on top of the ice cubes.
  4. Blend for 5 seconds.
  5. Drain the dates and place in the blender.
  6. Peel the banana.
  7. Add the following ingredients to the blender: 200 millilitres soy yoghurt, 20 grams oat meal, 4 grams linseed, the banana, 2 teaspoons agave nectar, 1 tablespoon peanut butter and the remaining 75 millilitres apple juice.
  8. Add more agave nectar if you prefer a sweeter smoothie.
  9. Blend for 30 seconds or until smooth.
  10. Serve immediately.

Tips

  • Add more soy yoghurt if the smoothie is too thick.
  • You can use maple syrup or acacia honey instead of the agave nectar.
  • For an extra healthy option, add a handful of blueberries into the smoothie.
  • You can use quinoa flakes if you are gluten intolerant.
  • You can use orange juice instead of the apple juice.