Nuts About Protein – Cyn-Full Dragon Bars
As a vegetarian, I’m always looking for sources of protein that don’t involve animal parts. I also travel a bit with my dogs, so need a snack that can be portable and quick. At a recent dog event, I made some of my Cyn-full Dragon Bars and was asked for the recipe. So, here you go.
Cyn-Full Dragon Bars
1/2 cup nut butter (I used organic peanut butter for this version, but you can use any nut butter you like)
1 tsp organic coconut oil
3 tsp black strap molasses
1/4 cup raw almond slivers
1/4 cup raw sunflower seeds
1/4 cup raw pumpkin seeds
1/4 cup raw hemp hearts
1/4 cup raw chia seeds
2 Tbsp organic cranberries
1/4 tsp rock salt
1 pinch of Essence of Dragon (can omit if not on hand)
Melt the coconut oil in a pan and add the nut butter and molasses. Heat and mix until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in each ingredient. Once all is mixed well, form into small cookies and put on cookie sheet lined with parchment paper and pop in the fridge. And don’t forget to lick the pan or if you’re like me, my dogs lick the pan and I lick the spoon – yumm!
(To make extra yummy, you can add some raw cacao powder.)
When on the road, I keep them in a cooler but that isn’t always necessary. They can be shelf stable in moderate temperatures.
What’s with all those ingredients?
So, now your taste buds love them, here is what is can do for you.
Peanut butter has an easily digestive source of plant protein (4 grams per tablespoon). The organic version has a good source of fats that can actually help lower cholesterol. Coconut oil enhances thyroid function helping increase metabolism, energy and stamina. Black strap molasses is a good source of vitamins and minerals, is low-glycemic, rich in iron and high in calcium and magnesium. Almonds are good for the heart and can lower cholesterol. Sunflower seeds also help with cholesterol, but they are a good anti-oxidant, contains vitamin-E, B-complex and folic acid. Just 100 grams (1/2 cup) contains 21 grams of protein! Pumpkin seeds (or Pepita) are a great source of magnesium (good for healthy heart function), Zinc (good for your immune system), helps balance blood sugar and can ease arthritis pain. Hemp Hearts area a “complete protein” and contain omega 3’s & 6’s. They also curb your appetite and increase energy. Chia Seeds are high in protein, loaded with anti-oxidants and contain calcium, magnesium and phosphorous – all good for bone health. Cranberries are high in vitamin C and contain anti-oxidants. Rock salt is needed (in moderation) to help muscle function, brain function and cellular function. Essence of Dragon: Dragons are the embodiment of primordial power – the ultimate ruler of all the elements. This is because the Dragon is the master of all the elements: Fire, Water, Earth, and Wind. (This ingredient is pretty hard to find. You can just “wish” it in your mix if you can’t source it.)
(People have asked why they are named Cyn-Full Dragon Bars. My friend and mentor Cynthia first introduced me to a version of these several years ago. Then, they were just called Dragon Bars. I modified it to honor her and for the fact that they are sinfully good!)
