Wellness Week Tip No 7: Sweet Treat, with a Twist

For the last wellness tip of the week, I figured why not end it on a sweet note with brownies. But not any kind of brownies. These brownies have a little secret hidden in them–black beans.

Why black beans?

Black beans are a great source of protein. For us who need protein or are trying to lose weight, this is a way to sneak them in.

Black beans also help our digestive track and are a great vegetarian source of protein and fiber. The nutritional benefits are vast and many. Ranging from helping with cholesterol, maintaining glucose levels, and aiding in digestive disorders, black beans are a food to try to incorporate into your diet.

Shane Diet & Fitness Resorts: Black Bean Brownies (Serves 20)

Prep time: 15 min.; Cook time: 35 min.

Ingredients:

1 (15-oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
3 eggs
3 tbsp canola oil
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
Coarse salt, a pinch
½ tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
⅔ cup brown sugar, packed
½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350° F. Spray an 8×8 pan with cooking spray.
2. In food processor, process black beans until smooth. Add the eggs, oil, cocoa powder, salt, baking powder, vanilla extract, and sugar; process until smooth. Add 1/4 cup chocolate chips and pulse a few times to fully mix. Transfer the batter to the pan and sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup chocolate chips on top of the batter.
3. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted at the center comes out clean.

Nutrition information per serving (1 brownie): 150 calories | 4.7 g fat | 22.7 g carbohydrates | 4.1 g dietary fiber | 6 g protein

Thank you for reading all of the tips from Wellness Week. I hope they brought some value to you and your family.