Recipe: Ginger Bliss Balls

Ginger is a really well-researched option for relieving nausea in pregnancy. Interestingly, dried ginger (like ground ginger powder or ginger tea made from dried root) is typically more effective than fresh ginger because it contains higher concentrations of gingerols, the active compounds responsible for its anti-nausea effects. These bliss balls use a good strong dose of dried ginger to help combat pregnancy nausea, while also delivering plenty of protein and fibre to balance blood glucose. This is a really simple recipe that can easily be customised to suit your own taste preferences.

Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats

• ½ cup almond meal

• 4 scoops plain protein powder (hemp or pea protein work well)

• ¼ cup tahini or almond butter

• 1 handful chopped, pitted Medjool dates, soaked in warm water (adjust to taste)

• 1 tbsp ground (dried) ginger

• ½ tsp cinnamon powder

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 2-4 tbsp warm water (as needed for texture)

• Pinch of sea salt

• Optional: 2 tbsp desiccated coconut for coating

Instructions

1.      Add all ingredients (except water and desiccated coconut) to a food processor and blitz to combine.

2.      Slowly add in the warm water until the mixture comes together into one large mass

3.      Remove mix from food processor and roll into small balls (approx.. 1 tbsp each). If mixture is too sticky, refrigerate for 10 minutes before rolling.

4.      If using coconut, roll each ball in coconut to cover.

5.      Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 7 days, or freeze for  2-3 months.

Note: if you don’t have a food processor you can simply mix by hand, just swap the rolled oats for “quick” oats.