In Char’s Kitchen Episode #4 ~ Special Guest Bodee Johnson

On this episode of ‘In Char’s Kitchen’ I’m joined by my pal Bodde Johnson! We’re talking manicures, the power of gals in sport and her mom’s famous hamburger recipe!! And, of course, we COOK!! Boddee & I are whipping up two delicious and doable recipes perfect for a family with busy/athletic children (and adults): Thai Flank Steak Kebobs and my Chocolate, Coconut & Peanut Energy Truffles. Both dishes feature one of my fave ingredients: peanuts and peanut butter! Click here for more recipes and information about the health benefits of peanuts and peanut butter!

Thai Flank Steak Kebobs ~ click here for recipe

Chocolate Coconut Chia Energy Truffles

Satisfy your sweet tooth with these good-for-you and easy to prepare bites.

I must admit, these ‘truffles’ are definitely on the sweeter side. To make them less sweet – you can: use half honey and half natural peanut butter (1/4 cup (60 mL) each – instead of 1/2 cup (125 mL) honey). And/or use half the amount of chocolate and add 1/4 cup (60 mL) quality cocoa. Also, if mixture seems too sticky at first to roll – chill mixture for about 20 minutes – then roll into ‘truffles’. Enjoy!

A delicious and nutritious sweet-treat-on-the-go!!

1 cup (250 mL) EACH: peanuts; large flake sweetened coconut and dark (or semi sweet) chocolate chips

1/2 cup (125 mL) large flake rolled oats OR quinoa flakes

2 tbsp (30 mL) EACH: chia seeds; hemp seeds and ground flax seed

1/2 cup (125 mL) liquid honey

2 tsp (10 mL) pure vanilla extract

1/4 tsp (1 mL) pure coconut extract

*extra shredded coconut for garnish

Place peanuts, coconut, chocolate and oats in the bowl of a Cuisinart food processor fitted with a metal blade. Pulse until finely chopped. Add remaining ingredients and pulse until mixture comes together and starts to form a ball. Roll mixture evenly into balls – just a bit smaller than a golf ball (should yield approx 18 to 24 “truffles” depending on how big/small you roll them). Roll each truffle in shredded coconut to coat. Store in an airtight container in refrigerator for up to two weeks – but they won’t last that long!!

Huge thank you to both Stephen’s Butcher Shop (Port Carling) and Cuisinart Canada for supporting this episode of ‘In Char’s Kitchen’ (click on each pink name for more info).