Bean and Lentil Gingerbread Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup of cooked lentils
• 1/2 cup of maple syrup
• 1/4 cup of brown sugar
• 1/4 cup of coconut oil
• 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce
• 2 tsp of ground ginger
• 1 tsp of cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp of nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp of baking powder
• 1/2 cup of whole wheat flour
• 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup of almond milk
• 1 tsp of vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup of crystallized ginger, chopped for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. In a food processor, puree the black beans and cooked lentils together until smooth.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine the pureed beans and lentils with maple syrup, brown sugar, coconut oil, unsweetened applesauce, ground ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
4. Sift the flours and baking powder into the mixing bowl with the bean and lentil mixture. Add almond milk and vanilla extract to the mixing bowl as well. Mix all ingredients well until a smooth batter is formed.
5. Pour the batter into an 8-inch square baking pan. Top with chopped crystallized ginger.
6. Bake at 350°F for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the bread comes out clean.
7. When done, remove the gingerbread from the oven and cool it in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving Suggestions:

This Bean and Lentil Gingerbread is perfect as a side for a hot cup of tea or coffee. You can also serve it as a tasty and filling breakfast or snack. Cut it into squares and enjoy it as is or spread a dollop of butter or cream cheese on top for added richness. This is a great way to add protein and fiber to your diet while satisfying your sweet tooth. Enjoy!