Naturally Sweet Almond-Quinoa Muffins

Almond flour is gluten-free and therefore a popular ingredient in place of wheat flour for gluten-sensitive people and people with wheat allergies and celiac disease.Almond is considered a nutritive for the brain and nervous system.It is said to induce high intellectual level and longevity.Recent studies have shown that the constituents of almonds have anti-inflammatory and immunity boosting effects.

Almonds are a rich source of vitamin E.They are also rich in monounsaturated fat, one of the two "good" fats responsible for lowering LDL cholesterol.Claimed health benefits of almonds include improved complexion, improved movement of food through the colon and the prevention of cancer.

The quinoa grain is highly appreciated for its nutritional value, as its protein content is very high (12%-18%), making it a healthy choice.It contains a balanced set of essential amino acids for humans, making it an unusually complete protein source. It is a good source of dietary fiber and is high in magnesium and iron.Quinoa is gluten-free and considered easy to digest, it can serve as a high-protein breakfast food mixed with honey,almonds or berries.Quinoa may be germinated in its raw form to boost its nutritional value.

Naturally Sweet Almond-Quinoa Muffins

Ingredients
1/2 cup almond flour
1/2 cup quinoa flakes
2 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. baking soda
2 tbsp. flax seed meal
1/2 tsp. sea salt
2 tbsp. honey or agave
1 cup unsweetened organic apple sauce
2 organic eggs

Method
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
2. In a large bowl, add almond flour,quinoa flakes, baking powder, baking soda, flax seed meal and sea salt and mix by hand.
3. Slowly add apple sauce and honey or agave to the dry mixture and mix well.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs. Pour whisked eggs into the dry mixture and mix well. The batter should have a smooth consistency.If it's too dry, add more applesauce, if it's too runny, add more quinoa flakes.
5. Pour mixture into lined muffin tins. Fill each only half full.
6. Bake approximately 20 minutes. Store in an airtight container up to one week.

Yields 18 muffins

Nutrition facts: Add ripe organic bananas, organic raisins, or chopped walnuts to add different flavor to these low-carb, gluten-free, protein-packed muffins.

This muffin can really help start your day in a nice healthy way. Your family will appreciate the time and energy that you are devoting to making nutritious home made muffins for them to enjoy.

Enjoy!! Have a great day!!

Sylvie Thibert