These fudgey, vegan, gluten-free chocolate brownies are enhanced with a beautiful little herb known as He Shou Wu, or Fo-Ti. This herb is renowned as a root of rejuvenation. It has been beloved since ancient times and is traditionally valued for supporting healthy hair. Traditionally, it’s also revered as a spiritual herb, known amongst monks and herbalists to support spiritual potency.
These are pretty rich and decadent brownies so one batch goes a long way. I love these in the morning with hot cup of tea, in the afternoon with a shot of espresso or basically any time of day I'm craving something sweet. The best part about satisfying that sweet tooth with these brownies is that you are really fueling your body and mind with very nourishing ingredients!
I love a crunch, so I have cacao nibs in the recipe. If you can't get the nibs then add some extra almonds at the end instead and you'll achieve that same delicious texture.
Vitality Brownies
Ingredients1 cup raw walnuts 1 cup raw almonds 2 1/2 cup dates (soaked in hot water for 10 minutes) 1/4 cup coconut flour 3/4 cup raw cacao powder 2 tbsp. cacao nibs 2 tbsp. Sun Potion He Shou Wu 1/4 tsp. sea salt Melted dark chocolate Topping of choice (I used granola) |
MethodPlace walnuts and almonds in food processor and process until finely ground Add the cacao powder, He Shou Wu and sea salt and pulse to combine Transfer to bowl and set aside Add the dates to the food processor and process until it turns to a paste. Remove and set aside Add nut and cocoa mixture back into food processor and while processing, drop small handfuls of the date pieces down into the food processor Process until a dough consistency is achieved finally add in the cacao nibs for one last pulse Spread on parchment paper and top with melted dark chocolate, as well as granola, chopped nuts, more cacao nibs or whatever you like! |
All Images courtesy of Brianna Beard
Frequently Asked Questions
What is He Shou Wu?
He Shou Wu, also known as Fo-Ti, is a root used for centuries in Chinese herbalism, where it is traditionally valued as a nourishing tonic herb.
Do these brownies need baking?
No — they are a raw, food-processor recipe. The base is nuts, dates and cacao, pressed and topped with melted dark chocolate.
How much He Shou Wu is in a batch?
Two tablespoons of Sun Potion He Shou Wu, pulsed in with the cacao and salt.
Are they vegan and gluten free?
Yes — nuts, dates, coconut flour and cacao, with no eggs, dairy or wheat.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Lana
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