Nutrition on the go can be a challenge for endurance athletes. Many of the commercial products contain too much sugar, salt or nasty additives, or are expensive. Here’s a healthy homemade alternative. It’s a simple recipe that you can add to as you wish. The recipe made as is creates a perfect little ball of goodness. For a “gel” type result use water to change the consistency. Credit goes to the similar recipe created by a Kona ironman participant (Haliey’s Salty Balls). This version gives some options on add-ins, and instructions on how to make a gel type substance.
Basic Recipe
1/3 cup brown rice syrup (can be found at Kroger and Whole Foods)
1/2 cup protein powder (I used unflavored pea protein from Whole foods)
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup cacao powder
1/2 cup nut butter (I have used almond, sunflower, peanut and Tahini)
1/2 cup raisins
Possible Add ins / substitutions
2 packets starbucks via coffee
1/2 cup chocolate chips
1/2 cup dried cherries
1/2 cup carob chips
1/2 cup cocoanut
2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 cup chia seeds
1/4 cup crushed flax seed (may have to add more water with this option)
2 tsp vanilla
1/2 cup crushed nuts
Directions
Put all ingredients (except for raisins) in a mixer and mix together until it forms a sticky dough. Then add in the raisins and mix for another minute or so.
Roll into balls.
To make a gel, add 1/4 cup water. The consistency should be sticky, not runny. Then use a small spoon to place into tiny ziplock bags (can find these on Amazon)
Refrigerate until use.
Recipe may be doubled or tripled.