Hemp seeds are remarkable little seeds that deserve a prominent space in every pantry.
They are:
- a complete plant protein (very unusual!), supplying all nine essential amino acids
- High in quality fats, with a perfect omega-3/ omega-6 balance.
- Rich in minerals, fibre and offering a range of heath benefits.
There is a detailed description of the nutritional powerhouse of Hemp seeds here.
It is easy to incorporate a healthy amount of hemp seeds in your diet: just add them on to pretty much anything - salads, mueslis, smoothies, in bars and goodie balls. You can also make this delicious and nutritious Hemp Seed Pesto where Hemp seeds replace the pine nuts/ macadamias/ cashews that are more usually used. This recipe is a combination of two from Pamela Salzman and The Full Helping.
Ingredients:
1/3 C Hemp Seeds
1 Tbsp chopped garlic (1-2 cloves)
2 C fresh basil
1/4 C parmesan or nutritional yeast
1 Tbsp lemon juice
1/4 C olive oil
1/2 tsp sea salt (or Himalayan)
Freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
- Place the basil, garlic, hemp and cheese or yeast in a food processor and run until the basil is broken down.
- Add the lemon juice.
- While the processor runs, drizzle the olive oil in through the pouring spout. Process until the pesto is creamy and the oil is fully incorporated (you may need to add a little extra oil)
- Store in the fridge for up to four days (though I have kept mine way longer than that!)