Clients (especially those who are on the go a lot) are always asking me to recommend a protein bar. To be honest, there isn’t one that I would recommend for regular consumption! They’re okay as an occasional get-out-of-jail card, but not for regular consumption. Many shop-bought protein bars hit your protein numbers, but they come with so many other sweeteners and additives that aren’t great for you to be eating habitually. With this recipe, I tried to create a protein bar (without using protein powder) that was healthy. One that I would be happy to recommend my clients eat regularly. Each chocolate crunch bar gives you about 5 grams of protein – perfect for a snack. They are high in healthy fats, so, as yummy as they taste, keep it to one per snack!

INGREDIENTS – Makes 10-12 bars

2 tbsp tahini 

4 tbsp almond or peanut butter 

60g (scant ½ cup) dark (70%) chocolate chips 

200g (7oz) cooked quinoa 

70g (½ cup) whole unpeeled almonds, chopped 

30g (1oz) whole linseeds or flaxseeds

METHOD

Line a small loaf, baking or cake tin with parchment paper. 

Either in the microwave or in a bowl set over a pan of gently simmering water, melt the tahini, nut butter and chocolate together until smooth. 

Add the rest of the ingredients and mix well. 

Tip into the prepared tin and chill for at least 1 hour, then cut into 10–12 small bars.

Tips: These will keep in the fridge for up to 10 days. If you like, you can drizzle with extra melted chocolate before slicing.

Food for Menopause by Dr Linia Patel is published by Murdoch Books, £20.00
Photo Credit: Clare Winfield