Savor the delightful blend of frozen banana, red lentils, and cocoa in our Chocolate-Banana Protein Smoothie. With a touch of maple syrup, this velvety concoction is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a powerhouse of nutrition. The smoothie’s rich, chocolate-infused hue is visually enticing, while its protein-packed goodness ensures a satisfying and energizing experience. Whether enjoyed as a quick breakfast or a post-workout refuel, this creamy creation promises both indulgence and nourishment in every sip.
Chocolate-Banana Protein Smoothie
Indulge in the rich and satisfying taste of the Chocolate-Banana Protein Smoothie. This nutritious blend combines the sweetness of frozen banana, the protein boost of cooked red lentils, and the decadence of cocoa powder. With a touch of pure maple syrup for sweetness, it's a delicious and wholesome way to fuel your day with a protein-packed treat. Enjoy the creamy goodness of this smoothie that not only tastes delightful but also provides a nutritious punch.
Equipment
- blender
- Cooking pot if not using pre-cooked lentils
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Glass or Serving Cup
- Garnish Tools optional
Ingredients
- 1 Frozen banana
- 1/2 cup Cooked red lentils cooled
- 1/2 cup Nonfat milk
- 2 tsp Unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp Pure maple syrup adjust to taste
Instructions
Prepare Red Lentils
- Cook red lentils according to package instructions.
- Once cooked, let them cool to room temperature.
Assemble Ingredients
- In a blender, combine the frozen banana, cooked red lentils, nonfat milk, unsweetened cocoa powder, and pure maple syrup.
Blend
- Blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy. If the smoothie is too thick, you can add more milk gradually until you reach your desired consistency.
Taste and Adjust
- Taste the smoothie and adjust the sweetness by adding more maple syrup if needed.
Serve
- Pour the smoothie into a glass and serve immediately.
Optional Garnish
- You can garnish the smoothie with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or a few slices of banana
Enjoy
Notes
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Preparation Tip:
- Ensure the banana is properly frozen before blending. This not only adds a creamy texture but eliminates the need for ice cubes.
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Lentil Cooking:
- If cooking red lentils from scratch, rinse them thoroughly before boiling. Cook until tender, then allow them to cool to room temperature before using in the smoothie.
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Blending Technique:
- Start by blending the solid ingredients (frozen banana and red lentils) with a small amount of liquid to ease the blending process. Gradually add more liquid until the desired consistency is reached.
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Adjusting Sweetness:
- Taste the smoothie before serving and adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more or less maple syrup.
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Optional Additions:
- Customize the smoothie by adding a handful of spinach for extra nutrients, a scoop of protein powder for more protein, or a dash of vanilla extract for added flavor.
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Garnish Creatively:
- Enhance the presentation by garnishing with a sprinkle of cocoa powder, a few slices of banana, or even a drizzle of melted dark chocolate.
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Texture Control:
- For a thicker consistency, use less milk. If you prefer a thinner smoothie, add more milk gradually until you reach your desired thickness.
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Make-Ahead Option:
- Prepare the smoothie ingredients the night before and store them in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply blend for a quick and convenient breakfast.
Nutrition
Serving: 1Serving | Calories: 250kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 2g | Fiber: 8g
