In the world of smart phones, smart TVs, and smart homes, we need to get smart about our snacking habits. Are you snacking smartly?
I have a busy routine and often find myself craving for snacks in between meals. Being a health conscious eater, I resist the temptation. At least most of the time. But there are days when I indulge myself, only to regret later. Even when there is no immediate adverse effect on my body, I can’t help but quieten the small voice in my head that tells me I would regret later.
I believe the need of the hour is not no snacking, it is no mindless snacking. Or as I call it smart snacking.
What makes a snack smart?
Smart snacks are made with intention and nutrient density that serves your wellness. These snacks are whole ingredients that fuel your body. They have functional benefits like fiber, antioxidants, or healthy fats. And are culturally relevant to reconnects you to your roots
Here are two SMART snack recipes inspired by African ingredients, ancestral wisdom, and modern nutrition.
The Vibrant Gut: Hibiscus Mango Yogurt Parfait
Imagine a gut supporting ritual that tastes like dessert and is ready in 5 minutes!
We are aware of the need for a healthy gut but did you know what it looks like? It is a medley full of colors, coolness, and with a tangy twist. 🌺🥭
Recipe: Hibiscus Mango Yogurt Parfait
Directions:
1. Make Hibiscus tea following the MAKOMAS recipe.
2. Allow the tea to cool in the refrigerator.
3. Add 1/4 cup chopped mango
4. Layer Greek or coconut yogurt into a glass
5. Drizzle with cooled hibiscus tea
6. Sprinkle chia seeds or granola
7. Garnish with mint if you fancy
Hibiscus is naturally anti inflammatory and soothes the gut. The probiotic yogurt supports the microbiome balance while mango is full of fiber, enzymes, and vitamin C. The granola or chia seeds add healthy fats and texture to the parfait.
Did your gut health ever look (or tasted) this good on our plate (or a spoon)? I think not.
Africa in Your Palm: West African Trail Mix
We have all had trail mix before, but have you ever had one with a culturally rich story? And one that is made of West African ingredients like dried mango, peanuts, suya spice?
If not, my friends you are in for a treat(trail) of a lifetime. My next recipe pays tribute to the bold flavors, vibrant ingredients, and resourceful spirit of my african roots.
Imagine a snack that roots you to your culture in every handful.
Recipe: West African Trail Mix
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup roasted peanuts (unsalted)
- 2 tbsp MAKOMAS dried mango
- 1 tbsp pumpkin seeds
- 1 tbsp coconut flakes
- Pinch of sea salt or suya spice (optional)
Directions:
Mix all ingredients in a bowl or mason jar.
Keep a stash in your bag, at your desk, or in your car for a convenient and energizing snack.
This trail mix gives you the perfect blend of Healthy fats from peanuts and seeds, Natural sweetness from dried mango, Crunch and texture from coconut, and Metabolic boost from a pinch of suya or chili spice.
The mix honors memory, connection and celebration of African food, bringing together ingredients from across the diaspora in one easy to love, grab and go form.
At Makomas, we believe in honoring where we come from, in our practices and on our plates. And, this involves mindful usage of our chemical free, non GMO, ingredients that are sourced from rural women farmers in West Africa. Each purchase from Makomas helps provide a nutritious meal to a needy (over 680 kgs of food donated already). We are currently supporting over 1800 people by our actions.
Feeling inspired or SMART by the above two recipes? Stay tuned for more such smart snack ideas in my next blog.
Cheers!
Magbè