There’s a huge conversation happening at the moment around protein, and it isn’t the one asking the question “are you getting enough?”, it’s the one that asks “do we really need that much?”.
Since the bodybuilding craze began, people have been searching out ways to build muscle fast, and as the craze has developed into something a vast amount of the Western community are interested in, the protein phenomenon is well and truly here.
Diet plans will tell you to eat more protein and less carbs, recovery from injury is said to happen quicker with more protein, and if you’ve researched nutritional plans for any type of athletic event, there’s no doubt you’ve come across the word protein more than enough times. Protein bars, powders and ready-made shakes are everywhere, and even specialised menu sections in restaurants are easily found these days. The thing is though, a lot of research points to the fact that we really don’t need as much protein as we might think. When it comes to longevity, large amounts of protein can also actually decrease life expectancy.
Cutting carbs has been the height of anecdotal health advice over the past few years, in favour of filling up on fats and protein. Whilst this does suit some people – especially those with digestive disorders – carbohydrates are still an important part of our daily food choices, and without enough of them, energy stores are significantly depleted, and muscle, brain and organ function is severely compromised. Want to work out and build muscle? You’ll need some energy in order to do it….
SO. There happens to be a recipe that is the best of both worlds; filled with equal amounts protein and carbohydrates. And it makes a totally healthy breakfast or post-exercise speedy meal.
Whilst they’re not vegan friendly, eggs are seen by many as the perfect source of protein, and are easy to digest. Bananas are often known as ‘nature’s energy bar’, and are a great source of potassium and natural carbohydrates. Mix them together and you’ll end up with a sweet and fluffy, nutritious pancake. Add a few extra ingredients and these will more than likely make it onto your list of breakfast regulars!
Ingredients (serves 1)
- 1 egg
- 1 banana
- 2 tbsp ground hemp seeds or hemp powder
- optional: 1 tsp maca powder (this makes these pancakes absolutely delicious and will smell amazing when you’re cooking them)
- optional: 1 tsp psyllium husk (for extra fibre; essential for gut health and good digestion, and also useful for helping the pancakes bind well)
- optional: 1/2 tsp ground cardamom (great for digestion and for reducing any Kapha imbalances)
How To
Heat a tsp of coconut oil in a large pan
Add all ingredients to a blender and blend well to create a runny but thick pancake batter
Wait until the pan is very hot, and then pour in about for small circles of pancake batter
These will cook quite quickly, so wait until small bubbles begin to form and pop on top of the pancakes, and then flip them. Cook for a minute or so on the other side, and then slide onto a plate.
Top with a drizzle of agave or honey for a sweeter taste, warm berries, and a sprinkling of shredded coconut.
Devour whilst they’re still warm!
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