One of the challenges of cooking in the bush is the limited access to basic ingredients or appliances. During a recent cooking class at an orphanage in Bura (few hours away from the coast of Kenya), I wanted to teach the kids how to make a simple treat with ingredients they would have access to, and requires no cooking, baking, or refrigerating (no electricity around). I like using oats as we all know its so good for us, and works almost like flour in no bake treats. (yes, i’m using quick oats here, and rolled oats are a much better option; but this is Africa, I’m already quite thankful that quick oats are available). Peanuts are grown here, hence one of the cheapest nuts around. Nut butter is great for binding, especially along with some form of natural liquid sweetener. I also love using bananas as they’re in season all year around, never cost more than 5 cents, and add sweetness to my treats.
This recipe is quite versatile, you can use other nuts and nut butter, or substitute other whole grain flakes instead of quick oats; Omit cocoa powder and use other fruits and spices. Truthfully the sky’s the limit.
The little sous chef at work.
More sous chefs!!
Always hard to wait for food….
Done! =)
Chocolate, Oatmeal, Peanut Balls
Yield: 80 mini balls
Ingredients
- 5 cups quick oats (or rolled oats if available)
- 2 cups roasted peanuts, coarsely chopped
- 1 cup unsweetened peanut butter
- ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ¼ cup honey
- 4 bananas, mashed
- Water (if needed)
Directions
In a large mixing bowl, mix together, peanut butter, honey, and mashed bananas. Mix in oats, chopped peanuts, and cocoa powder. Mix until it becomes a cookie dough consistency. Add a little water if dough is too dry. Roll the dough by teaspoons into balls and serve
The Green Panda's Kitchen 