No-Bake Herbal Power Balls
This is a rich, nutrient-dense treat that delivers an abundance of sweetness without the fat or calories -- or a mound of mixing bowls and baking dishes to clean up. It's also very versatile. The herbs suggested here are in powdered form for ease of mixing and improved texture and were selected for their adaptogen and antioxidant qualities, but you can certainly make substitutions. Similarly, feel free to swap out the tahini (sesame paste) with your favorite nut butter, or maple syrup for the honey. You could also substitute carob for final rolling/dusting with melted chocolate and shredded coconut.
As long as you keep the ingredient proportions more or less the same, you really can't go wrong. After all, you can always add more honey or powdered herbs, if necessary, to get the right consistency. Your goal is to achieve a thick paste that you can roll between your palms and hold its shape.
Ingredients
3/4 cup tahini (sesame paste) 1/2 local raw honey ¼ cup powdered astragalus root ¼ cup powdered eleuthero root ¼ cup powdered ashwagandha root 1/4 cup powdered Schisandra berry 1 tablespoon powdered ginger root 1 tablespoon powdered cinnamon 1/2 tablespoon powdered cardamom 1/2 tablespoon powdered maca root 2 tablespoons powdered carob
Combine the tahini and honey in a large bowl; mix well with a spatula. In another medium bowl, combine the remaining ingredients except for the carob powder; stir to mix. Stir the herb/spice mixture a bit at a time into the tahini/honey mixture. Stir well until well combined.
Roll the paste into 1-inch balls. Roll balls into the powdered carob and place in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator. Makes about two dozen balls. To enjoy, pop 2 or 3 a day, preferably in the morning or in the afternoon for an energy boost.
