English Reading Practice - Baking & Cooking -Homemade Energy Balls (C1/C2 Advanced)

In today's fast-paced world, maintaining energy levels throughout the day can be a challenge. Between work, family commitments, and personal time, finding the right snack that provides both nutrition and energy is essential. Enter homemade energy balls. These bite-sized powerhouses are not only easy to make but are also packed with nutrients that keep you going. Whether you're an athlete, a busy professional, just want a snack for your weekend hike or a parent on the go, energy balls are a perfect addition to your daily routine.

Energy balls are a great way to ensure you’re getting a mix of proteins, healthy fats, and fibre. Ingredients like nuts, seeds, oats, and dried fruits offer a variety of essential nutrients. For example, nuts provide healthy fats and proteins, while oats are rich in fibre, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.

One of the best things about making energy balls at home is the ability to customise them to your taste and dietary needs. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or have other dietary restrictions, you can choose ingredients that suit your lifestyle. Add some chocolate chips for a sweet treat, or go for chia seeds and flaxseeds for an extra health boost.

Homemade energy balls are incredibly easy to make and require no baking. This makes them a perfect option for those who need a quick snack solution. They can be prepared in batches and stored for a week or more, providing a convenient grab-and-go option for busy days.

Making your own energy balls can be more cost-effective than buying pre-packaged snacks. By purchasing ingredients in bulk, you can save money and create a larger quantity of snacks that last longer.

Here’s a simple and delicious recipe to get you started. Feel free to modify the ingredients to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup rolled oats

• 2 tablespoons cocoa

• 1 tablespoon honey

• 5 Dates soaked in warm water

• 1 tablespoon mini chocolate chips or cacao nibs

• 2 tablespoons of seeds (sunflower, chia, pumpkin, flaxseed)

• 1 tablespoon dried cranberries

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Mix Ingredients: In a food processor combine oats, seeds, salt and cocoa powder. Do short pulses until they are at the consistency you want (I prefer finer rather than chunky). Add the dates, honey, vanilla extract and cranberries and pulse again until combined. If the mixture is too dry, add a little more honey. If it's too wet, add more oats or flaxseeds. Finally, add the chocolate chips.

2. Form Balls: Using your hands, roll the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.

3. Chill: Place the balls on a baking sheet lined with greaseproof paper and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This helps them firm up.

4. Store: Once chilled, transfer the energy balls to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for longer.

My Tips for Making the Perfect Energy Balls

• Experiment with Flavours: Don’t be afraid to mix and match ingredients. Try adding pretzels, raisins, or chopped nuts for added texture and flavour.

• Use a Food Processor: If you prefer a smoother texture, use a food processor to blend the ingredients before forming the balls if you prefer something more chunky chop the ingredients and make the recipe in a bowl

• Keep Them Handy: Store energy balls in small portions, so you can easily grab a few when you’re in need of a quick energy boost.

Homemade energy balls are a versatile, nutritious, and convenient snack that can be tailored to meet your dietary needs and preferences. By making them yourself, you ensure that you're fueling your body with wholesome ingredients, free from preservatives and artificial additives. So why not give it a try? Your body—and your taste buds—will thank you.

Check your understanding

1. What are the main benefits of making homemade energy balls as mentioned in the article?

2. List at least three types of ingredients commonly used in energy balls and explain their nutritional benefits.

3. How can energy balls be customised to fit different dietary needs and preferences? Provide two examples.

4. Describe the basic steps involved in making homemade energy balls.

5. What are some tips provided in the article for making the perfect energy balls?

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Vocabulary

Nutrients: Substances that provide nourishment essential for growth and the maintenance of life.

Fibre: A type of carbohydrate that the body can't digest, found in plants, which helps to keep the digestive system healthy.

Customise: To modify or build according to individual or personal specifications or preferences.

Dietary Restrictions: Limitations on food choices due to health, ethical, or personal reasons.

Grab-and-go: Conveniently packaged or prepared to be taken quickly when leaving.

Cost-Effective: Providing good value for the amount of money spent; economical.

Ground Flaxseeds: Flaxseeds that have been milled or ground into a fine powder, often used in baking or smoothies for added fibre and nutrients.

Cacao Nibs: Small pieces of crushed cacao beans that have a bitter, chocolatey flavour and are often used in baking or as a topping.

Firm Up: To become solid or more solid.

Portions: Specific amounts of food served as part of a meal or snack.