Coconut Matcha Energy Bites

Those that know me know I’m a big fan of being outside. This is especially true in the warmer months and now that we’re seeing the longer days, it means more time enjoying the great outdoors. For me that looks like riding my bike pretty much everywhere, playing volleyball on the beach and getting lost in the forest. Well, hopefully not really lost but you know what I mean ;) I'm grateful everyday that I get to call Vancouver home and that my 'backyard' gives makes it easy for me to get out and do all of this. 

In order to enjoy all of this, and be the best for myself and my clients I need to be at the top of my energy game. That means making sure I've always got food on hand that’s portable, packs a nutritional punch, and of course tastes good. I’ve been exploring different recipes for energy bars and found they’re super easy to make at home. These matcha bites are perfect for a mid hike snack or pre/post workout. Now I have to admit I’m not a big fan of matcha - at least in the drinkable form. I’ve tried matcha lattes and there’s something about the texture that doesn’t work for me. I’m a big believer in not forcing yourself to eat things that you don’t enjoy so I let this one go a while ago.  

Matcha is a super food when it comes to antioxidants and so many other health benefits so I thought it couldn’t hurt to experiment. And I’m so glad I did! The mix of coconut and mango add sweetness to offset the slightly earthly flavour of the matcha. Cashews are blended to almost a flour which helps to bind everything together. If you’re like me and not on the latte train, give this different approach to matcha a try and let me know what you think!

Coconut Matcha Energy Bites

• 1 cup coconut manna (coconut butter you can find at most health food stores), melted

• 1/2 cup raw cashews

• 1/2 cup dried mangos, rehydrated (see directions)

• 1/2 cup flaked coconut, unsweetened plus a 1/4 cup for rolling

• 2 tbsp matcha (green tea powder)

*Soak dried mangos for 10 min in 1/4 cup of water.*

Add cashews to a food processor and blend until they resemble nut flour. Add remaining ingredients and blend until smooth. 

Roll into small balls. If mixture is too wet place in the fridge until slightly firm, about 10 min. Roll balls in coconut and refrigerate.

Store in the fridge or freezer for up to 2 weeks.

Makes 12-15 bites.