Harira: Traditional Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried chickpeas, soaked overnight
• 1/2 cup lentils
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons ground ginger
• 2 teaspoons turmeric
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh celery
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large soup pot, sauté onions and garlic until onions are soft and golden brown.
2. Add all the spices, parsley, cilantro, and celery and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add chickpeas, lentils, diced tomatoes, lemon juice and broth to the pot and mix well.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 1-2 hours until chickpeas and lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top, and with warm bread on the side.

Treat

Peanut Butter Banana Bites

Ingredients:

• 1 banana, sliced
• 1/3 cup peanut butter
• 1/4 cup honey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. In a medium bowl, mix together peanut butter, honey and vanilla extract until well combined.
2. Add in rolled oats and sliced bananas, and stir until everything is evenly coated.
3. Spoon the mixture into small balls and place them on a wax-paper-lined baking sheet.
4. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl until smooth.
6. Remove the bites from the fridge and drizzle chocolate on top of each one.
7. Refrigerate again for at least 10-15 minutes until chocolate has hardened.
8. Serve chilled and enjoy as a healthy and delicious treat!

Verdict:

These peanut butter banana bites are a healthier alternative to traditional treats, and are full of wholesome ingredients like rolled oats and fresh fruit. The added chocolate drizzle makes them just sweet enough to satisfy your cravings without going overboard on sugar. Plus, they can be whipped up in just minutes and stored in the fridge for snacking throughout the week!

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair these bites with a glass of cold milk or your favorite hot beverage for a sweet and satisfying snack.
• Pack them in your lunchbox for an easy midday pick-me-up.
• Top with a sprinkle of crushed nuts or coconut flakes for an even more indulgent snack experience.