Power Protein Waffles

I've been working hard to incorporate more healthful, whole, and natural foods into my diet this summer. As an avid baker, this can be a conflict when it comes to sweet desserts and carb-laden breakfast foods like pancakes and waffles. But I've discovered wonderful alternatives to all-purpose flour and white sugar; ingredients like whole wheat pastry flour, brown rice syrup, and flax meal not only serve as nutritious alternatives but they're quite flavorful as well.

I can't really take credit for this waffle recipe here. I discovered it on a blog I only recently started reading: Running Around Normal. As a newbie runner, Paige is an inspiration. Like me, she started running with the Couch to 5K program (I have 2 weeks left! I can't believe how far I've come). This waffle recipe is just one of many I am excitedly trying as I embark upon this new, healthy lifestyle.

If you are like me, then you love waffles but loathe the lethargic, bloated feeling that soon follows any carbohydrate fest. These waffles left me feeling full (but not bloated) and energetic! They also stave off hunger for a very long time. Also, the topping is divine! I bet it would be wonderful with fresh fruit. Also, these aren't vegan but could easily be converted with a milk alternative, egg substitute, and a dairy-free yogurt for the topping.

This recipe makes enough batter for 2 large Belgian style waffles or 4 regular waffles.

Power Protein Waffles
modified slightly from original recipe

• 1 c. whole wheat pastry flour
• 1 scoop of protein powder – I used Naturade Vegetable Protein Powder
• 1 t. sea salt
• 1 t. baking soda
• 1 large egg
• 3/4-1 c. milk
• 2 T. brown rice syrup (or whatever sweetener you prefer)
• 2 T. flaxmeal
• 1 t. vanilla

Whisk the first four ingredients together in a medium size bowl. In another bowl, whisk the remaining ingredients. Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and gently blend just until combined. Oil your waffle iron (I used coconut oil) and cook according to your waffle iron's directions. The waffles are done when they're crisped on the outside (but will still be tender and fluffy on the inside).

For the topping, blend together 3 T. plain or vanilla greek yogurt (I used Chobani vanilla), 1 T. real maple syrup, and 1.5 T. almond butter. Feel free to add fresh or thawed, frozen fruit to your waffles as well. Yum!

Comments

[Aimee]

They look so yummy! I have been meaning to check out the Couch to 5k training. I don't enjoy running, but maybe just because I'm not in shape for it. LOL.

[Jane @ The Borrowed Abode]

I TOTALLY hate the feeling I get after eating waffles or pancakes, and that sucks for my boyfriend because he loves waffles. I'll have to try this out!