Green Pancakes

Green Pancakes - A Wellness Warriors Breakfast Delight.

When we think of pancakes, the images conjured are often of fluffy golden disks, dripping in butter and maple syrup, with a side of bacon for good measure. But what if I told you there's a health-boosting variant that packs in greens, fibre, and a dash of sweet goodness without sacrificing taste? Enter the Green Pancake, a breakfast revolution that embodies both deliciousness and nutrition. Let's dive into this vibrant and nourishing culinary trend.

The Green Pancake is Not Just Another Pancake.

Pancakes have been a breakfast staple across cultures for centuries. While traditional ones focus on taste, the current health and wellness trend has influenced an evolution in pancake recipes to make them both scrumptious and nutrient-dense. One such innovative creation is the Green Pancake.

Key Trends & Insights.

1. Green is the New Gold:
From green smoothies to green pasta, the wellness community is all about incorporating greens into their diet. Spinach, in particular, is rich in vitamins, iron, and antioxidants, making it a superstar ingredient.

2. A Perfect Balance of Macro and Micronutrients:
Gone are the days when pancakes were deemed unhealthy. With ingredients like spinach, almond milk, and coconut sugar, this pancake version aligns with modern nutrition principles - high fibre, protein-packed, and moderate in natural sugars.

3. DIY Healthy Alternatives:
Coconut oil, coconut sugar, and almond milk are being used in contemporary kitchens as replacements for their more processed counterparts. These alternatives bring with them not just taste, but an array of health benefits.

4. The Rise of Functional Foods:

More than just satisfying hunger, foods today are viewed as functional. They serve a dual purpose: taste and health. Our recipe today epitomizes this trend, offering both tastiness and a wellness boost.

Green Pancakes

All You Need:

Serves 4 Prep:15 mins Rest:30mins Cook:15 mins

All You Need:

1 ¾ cups (435ml) almond milk

1 egg

1 ripe banana, coarsely chopped

85g (3 oz.) spinach

2 cups (300g) self-rising flour

¼ cup (55g) coconut sugar

¼ tsp. baking soda

2 tbsp. coconut oil, melted

½ cup (140g) coconut yogurt, to serve

1 cup seasonal fruit, to serve

All You Do:

1. Place the milk, egg, banana, and spinach into a blender and blitz until smooth.

2. Combine the flour, sugar, and baking soda in a large bowl. Make a well in the centre, and add the smoothie mixture. Whisk until combined to form a smooth batter. Let it rest for 30 minutes.

3. Preheat a large non-stick pan over medium-low heat. Brush with coconut oil. Pour in ¼ cup batter, cooking 1-2 minutes until bubbles form. Flip and cook for an additional minute. Repeat for all pancakes.

4. Serve four pancakes per plate. Garnish with yoghurt and fruit.

Nutritional Perks:

• 4g of healthy fats, primarily from the almond milk.

• Essential nutrients for tissue repair and growth.

• Carbs: A substantial 86g helping to maintain your energy levels.

• Protein: A commendable 7g which will keep you feeling fuller for longer.

• Fibre: At 14g these pancakes will not only maintain your digestive health but it will also keep you regular!

Additionally, they are 100% vegan. And for those mindful of other attributes, they are Meal Prep friendly (MP) and they contain nuts (N).

Actionable Tips:

1. Switch Up Your Greens: Spinach is a great choice, but for variation, you could also try kale or Swiss chard.

2. Embrace Seasonal Toppings: Depending on the season, opt for berries, pears, or even tropical fruits like mangoes, paw-paw, papaya or kiwi fruit to keep things fresh.

3. Boost Your Batter: Enhance the nutritional profile by adding chia seeds or flaxseeds to the batter.

4. Freeze for Later: These pancakes are meal-prep friendly. Make a batch, freeze, and reheat for a quick breakfast.

Conclusion: The Pancake Reimagined

The Green Pancake isn't just a dish, it's a testament to the health and wellness community's ingenuity. In embracing this delightful trend, we're taking a beloved breakfast staple and transforming it into a powerhouse of nutrition. So, the next time you have craving for pancakes, opt for this verdant variety and give your day the healthful kickstart it deserves. Happy cooking and even happier eating!