No-Bake Plantain Power Bites
These No-Bake Plantain Power Bites are a delicious and convenient way to enjoy the benefits of resistant starch, offering sustained energy and a satisfying sweet-earthy flavor profile.
For 4 servings
Peel the green plantain. Using the fine side of a box grater or a food processor with a grating attachment, finely grate the entire plantain into a medium bowl. Set aside.
In the bowl of a food processor, combine the pitted Medjool dates, raw almonds, unsweetened cocoa powder, and fine sea salt. Pulse several times until the mixture is finely chopped and crumbly, resembling coarse sand.
Add the grated green plantain to the food processor with the date-nut mixture. Pulse again, starting with 1 tablespoon of water, until a sticky dough begins to form and holds together when pressed. Add the second tablespoon of water only if the mixture is too dry and not coming together.
Transfer the mixture to a clean bowl. Scoop out about 1 tablespoon of the mixture at a time and roll it firmly between your palms to form small, compact balls, about 1-inch in diameter.
Place the unsweetened shredded coconut in a shallow dish. Roll each plantain bite in the shredded coconut, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
Arrange the coated power bites on a plate or in an airtight container. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow them to firm up. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 1 month.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Plantain Ripeness: Ensure you use a very green, unripe plantain for the highest resistant starch content. Yellowing plantains will be sweeter and less starchy.
- 2Food Processor Power: A powerful food processor is key for achieving a smooth, well-combined mixture. If your processor struggles, chop the dates and almonds more finely before processing.
- 3Adjusting Consistency: The amount of water needed can vary based on the moisture content of your dates and plantain. Add water sparingly, one teaspoon at a time, until the mixture forms a cohesive dough.
- 4Storage: For best texture and longevity, store these bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can also be frozen for a quick grab-and-go snack.
Adapt it for your goals.
Nut Butter Boost
Add 1-2 tablespoons of almond butter or peanut butter to the food processor for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
Spice It UpSpice It Up
Incorporate 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a warming flavor kick.
Seed PowerSeed Power
Replace half of the almonds with pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or chia seeds for a different nutritional profile and texture.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Resistant Starch
Green plantains are an excellent source of resistant starch, which acts as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria and supporting digestive health.
Sustained Energy
Combining complex carbohydrates from plantains and dates with healthy fats from almonds provides a steady release of energy, preventing sugar spikes and crashes.
Rich in Fiber
Dates, plantains, and almonds are all high in dietary fiber, promoting satiety, aiding digestion, and contributing to overall gut wellness.
Frequently asked questions
While you can, it's not recommended for this recipe's primary benefit. Ripe plantains have converted most of their resistant starch into sugar, altering the nutritional profile and texture of the bites.
