Chocolate Mint Matcha Smoothie. Vegan.

Chocolate Mint Matcha Smoothie.   Totally vegan.  This smoothie was inspired by a Thrive recipe.  I’ll admit, Matcha is growing on me as I wasn’t a big fan when I first tasted it.  It really is such a powerhouse that I kept incorporating it into my smoothies and now I tolerate it.  It’s different from green tea because the leaves are crushed into powder form and you consume them (hello kryptonite) v. tea leaves which are just steeped.

Amongst its many benefits, matcha…
Is packed with antioxidants including the powerful EGCg.
Boosts metabolism and burns calories.
Detoxifies effectively and naturally.
Calms and relaxes.
Enhances mood and aids in concentration.
Provides vitamin C, selenium, chromium, zinc and magnesium.
Fights against viruses and bacteria.
Is rich in fiber.
Lowers cholesterol and blood sugar.
Does not raise insulin levels.

Okay with that being said, adding other flavors to it makes it, in my opinion, way more tasty.  I love this smoothie and I have it in my post workout rotation of smoothie breakfast choices.  Plus it’s chocolatey which makes the start of any day awesome!  My kids also love it so I’ll go out on a limb and say that it’s kid-approved.  Now where to find Green Tea Matcha Powder?  Some tea shops will have it.  I found it at the grocery store in the specialty tea aisle, online but be aware, it is pricey.  Thankfully you don’t use that much in recipes because it is so powerful.  Just wanted to share.

Ingredients:

2 Medjool dates, pitted
1 large banana – fresh or frozen (use less ice if using a frozen banana)
8 mint leaves, fresh
1 tablespoon of cacao nibs
1 teaspoon of vegan chocolate chips (I use Enjoy Life)
1 tablespoon of hemp protein powder – I use Bob’s RedMill
1 tablespoon of VegaOne vanilla protein powder
1 teaspoon of raw cacao powder
1 teaspoon of Matcha Green Tea Powder
1/4 teaspoon mint extract
1/2 cup almond milk, unsweetened
3/4 cup of coconut water
6 ice cubes

Directions:

Add all of the ingredients in this order to your blender or Vitamix.  Blend until creamy.  Garnish with mint leaves and cacao nibs.

 

 

 

— Knead to Cook