Raw Pecan Pie

Eating about a handful of pecans each day may play a role in protecting the nervous system.A study suggests adding pecans to your diet may delay the progression of age-related motor neuron degeneration.This may include diseases such as Lou Gehrig’s Disease.Researchers suggest vitamin E – a natural antioxidant found in pecans – may provide a key element to neurological protection shown in the study.Antioxidants are nutrients found in foods that help protect against cell damage, and studies have shown, can help fight diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, cancer and heart disease.

Skip the refined sugars and flours in favour of nuts,coconut,dates and raisins in this raw version of classic pecan pie.

Ingredients

Crust

2 cups walnuts
3 cups of pitted medjool dates
1 cup organic coconut flakes, finely ground

Filling

2/3 cup filtered water
1 cup raw pecans, soaked about 15 minutes
1 cup organic Thompson raisins
1 Tbsp. vanilla extract
1 tsp. nutmeg
1/3 cup maple syrup
1 tsp. sea salt

Directions

1.Pit the dates manually, extracting each pit and discarding.
2.Add the dates, coconut flakes and walnuts to a food processor and mix on high until thoroughly mixed.
3.Blend all filling ingredients together in the blender until smooth. Pour into crust and garnish with fresh, raw pecans.
4.Set in freezer overnight, or for at least 5 hours before serving.

*Researchers measured the antioxidant capacity of nuts among 100 commonly consumed healthy foods and snacks, including different types of nuts, and determined pecans have more antioxidant capacity than walnuts, hazelnuts, pistachios, almonds, peanuts and cashews.

Impress your guests, they will definitely thank you for it....

Enjoy!!

Sylvie Thibert