Attempting Niomi Smart’s ‘Lemon Bliss Balls’

I recently purchased Niomi Smart’s new cookbook, Eat Smart. I absolutely love it! The cookbook is full of unique, plant-based recipes. Although I do not completely follow a plant-based diet, I eat very little meat, so I find these recipes useful. They are delicious and it’s a challenge and great fun to experiment with these interesting and different foods.

Unfortunately, I do have sweet tooth and whilst raiding the fridge for a sweet treat one day, I refrained myself from stuffing my face with chocolate when I remembered the mouth – watering  Lemon Bliss Balls I had seen in Eat Smart. I have a massive sweet tooth. Can you tell? I decided to channel my inner Niomi Smart, and put away the chocolates for the “smarter” choice. Needless to say, I was blown away by the result! I was so impressed that I decided to share my (slightly altered) version of the recipe. Lemon Bliss Balls for everyone!

What you will need: (Makes 10)

• 100g of raw, unsalted nuts – I chose macadamia
• 2 tbsp of coconut oil
• 90g (1 cup) of desiccated coconut
• 1 tsp of vanilla essence
• 2 vanilla pods
• 2-3 tbsp of maple syrup (I went for 3)
• 3 tbsp of lemon juice

Step 1: Blend nuts 

The original recipe is made with raw Brazil Nuts. As I could not easily find these, I opted for Macadamia nuts instead. A food processor or a trusty Nutri Bullet will do the trick! I found that it is better to blend the nuts before adding the other ingredients in order to make the mixing easier later on.

Step 2: Add coconut 

Make sure to set aside 2-3 table spoons of coconut to roll the balls in later. Add the remainder into the blended nuts.

Step 3: Add lemon juice

I always prefer to squeeze fresh lemon juice. Just make sure to get all the pips out!

Step 4: Add Maple Syrup 

This is probably my favourite part. I LOVE maple syrup. I found that the recipe needed 3 table spoons as opposed to the recommended 2. Oops.

Step 5: Add the vanilla

Niomi suggests adding vanilla powder or vanilla extract. However, a cheaper option is just to cut open some vanilla pods and add a bit of vanilla essence. To open the pods, cut a straight line through the centre and then scrape off the little seeds inside with the blunt side of a knife.

Step 6: Blend it all up!

Shake the mixture around if it sticks to the sides.

Step 7: Add coconut oil 

Pour the mixture into a mixing bowl and make sure to combine well with the coconut oil until you get a dough-like texture. Add a bit of coconut flour if it is too sticky.

 Step 8: Roll into little balls 

I decided to vary the size of the balls for little taster sizes as well as for afternoon snacks.

Step 9: Roll balls in desiccated coconut

Last but not least; roll the balls in the remainder of the desiccated coconut. Add a bit of lemon zest if you want some extra zing.

The final result!

Let me know if you give it a go. I can’t wait to try out more recipes from Eat Smart!

 

xxx

Jenna

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