Chocolate Smoothie (No Banana!)
The perfect plant-based chocolate smoothie for for anyone who doesn’t like bananas.
The reason I love this cold and creamy chocolate drink is that it tastes like a chocolate milkshake or melted soft scoop ice-cream, but all the ingredients are super healthy!
You get the sweetness from the dates rather than banana, and the protein from the tofu keeps it nice and creamy. It’s perfect for those who aren’t a fan of the taste of bananas, or wanting to add extra protein to their smoothies. This smoothie is a banana-free zone!
Make sure to use silken tofu rather than firm tofu for the creamy texture as firm tofu won't have the same effect.
My favourite variety of dates to use in this chocolate smoothie is Medjool (these tend to a bit larger than other kinds). They are super sweet and soft so they blend up well.
You can use any date, just try and avoid harder drier dates (or soak them in water before hand). Remember, you’re getting lots of plant-based iron and potassium from these small dried fruits.
I often finish off this smoothie with a sprinkle of cacao nibs as it adds a nice crunch. But if you don’t have any of these don’t worry it’s only optional (or for a fun option just sprinkle with your favourite vegan chocolate!)
If you want to step up the energy levels a notch then you can also add a shot of espresso.
Ingredients
Packet silken tofu (approx. 300g)
1 tbsp cocoa powder
5 pitted medjool dates
1 tbsp flax seeds
Handful of ice
Cacao nibs (optional)
60-125ml (1/4 -1/2 cup) non-dairy milk
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Shot of espresso (optional)
METHOD
Gather your ingredients.
If you don't have a high speed blender, either blend the dates first with some water, or omit them entirely and use some maple syrup to sweeten instead.
Now add in the rest of your ingredients and blend.
Enjoy your vegan chocolate smoothie with a reusable straw!!
NOTES
Add a sprinkle of sea salt to offset the cocoa powder for a different flavour!
Swap out the dates for maple syrup or any other sweetener if you can’t get your hands on them, or don’t have the best blender.
Add a scoop of protein powder for even more protein!
If you like banana, but not soy, then this recipe could also work by swapping the silken tofu for a banana.
