Superfood savvy: 5 healthy ingredients you should be making friends with

(images: iStock)

There seems to be an almost endless list of ‘superfoods’ out there at the moment, some utterly unpronounceable and from far-flung corners of the world. These are some of my favourites that are worth getting to know…

1. Baobab powder
Baobab is considered a super fruit and I love its gentle tartness. It’s extremely high in Vitamin C, has more antioxidants than blueberries and goji berries, and more potassium than bananas. It has quite a tart flavour, but you can sprinkle over homemade granola or blend into smoothies.

2. Raw cacao powder
Good quality raw cacao powder also has a long list of accolades to its name, including antioxidants, fibre and iron, and blood pressure and sugar levelling properties. Add 1 tsp to your Power Smoothie for delicious ‘chocolatiness’, or make healthy homemade hot chocolate with 1 cup milk of your choice, 1 tsp cacao and 1 tsp honey/maple syrup – yum!

3. Chia seeds
Chia seeds are South American in origin and said to be among the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet. They’re full of fibre, and 2 Tbsp has more healthy omega-3 than a serving of salmon. They’re also really high in protein and are significant contributors to good heart health and blood sugar regulation. 

Make speedy chia jam: Add 2 cups frozen raspberries to a saucepan along with a dash of water and ¼ cup honey, simmer gently until the berries have softened then remove the pan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool to room temperature. Add in ¼ cup chia seeds, stir well and leave for a few minutes until the chia seeds have plumped up. Add the jam to a clean glass jar and keep in the fridge, ready to dollop onto porridge, yoghurt, granola, or even toast or crackers with some peanut butter. 

4. Hemp seeds
Rich in good fats and fatty acids, they’re nutrient dense and full of healthy plant-based proteins. Sprinkle a tablespoon over your granola in the mornings, or add to smoothies for an extra kick of protein that will keep you fuller and more energized for longer. 

5. Turmeric
It’s been a treasured Asian and Indian natural medicine for centuries, thanks mostly to its inflammation and antioxidant fighting properties. Try a homemade golden turmeric latte: To your milk frother or a small saucepan over medium heat add 1 cup milk of your choice, 1 level tsp turmeric, ½ tsp ground ginger, ½ tsp ground cinnamon and a dash of honey or maple syrup. Warm through and enjoy. OR make a frosted version by adding all of the ingredients to your blender along with a handful of ice cubes and blitz until creamy. 

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