We've joined the matcha craze! Here's an easy recipe for matcha truffles - you only need 5 ingredients!
What is matcha?
Matcha is finely ground green tea leaves, after stem and vein removal. As the leaf is entirely consumed, matcha contains more nutrients (and more caffeine!) than regularly steeped green tea. Matcha contains high levels of antioxidants, including catechins, and has energy-boosting properties from the extra caffeine (1). But, as always, moderation is key!
Matcha desserts and drinks have become popularized recently, with a variety of food, drinks and desserts. However, store-bought matcha flavoured foods are often loaded with added sugar and flavourings. We recommend using pure ground matcha for homemade desserts and drinks so you know exactly what type and how much sweetener you are putting in.
There is a secret ingredient to these deliciously creamy matcha truffles...can you guess what it is?
Avocados! This ingredient gives the truffles a creamy, melt-in-the-mouth texture. Avocados contain healthy fats, called monounsaturated fats. These fats can help protect against cardiovascular diseases by lowering LDL-cholesterol. (2)
Here is the recipe!
Ingredients
1 ripe avocado
¼ cup coconut oil
¼ cup cocoa powder (alternatively, you can use ½ cup dark chocolate chips)
3 tbsp maple syrup (adjust to preference)
⅛ cup matcha
Recipe
In a small saucepan at low heat, melt coconut oil.
Add cocoa powder and mix until well dissolved.
Add chocolate mixture in a bowl, and mash avocado until fully dissolved. (You may want to use a blender once cooled, to ensure that there are no chunks in the mixture)
Transfer the chocolate mixture in a bowl and cover.
Refrigerate for at least 15-30 minutes, until firm but still mouldable.
Once set, remove from fridge and roll mixture into small balls.
Cover truffles with matcha powder, and/or any other desired toppings.
Freeze until ready to serve.
Recipe modified from The Healthy, Family and Home. Pictures by Rachel Ma.
References