Super Creamy Spirulina Hemp Oat Milk
Spiru...what?! Protein from algae?!
I get asked very often where I get my protein sources from… because ya know proteins don’t just have to come from animal sources. My favourite go-to especially for breakfast or on-the-go pre or post-workout smoothies is a balanced spirulina hemp oat milk. It’s a great source of protein, essential fatty acids, carbs and a little sugar!
But first, what is spirulina?
Spirulina is a blue-green algae that’s high in B vitamins and minerals like iodine, beta-carotene, antioxidants, iron, and manganese. It’s also 75% protein and a complete protein, containing all essential amino acids. Calorie for calorie, it contains 3x more protein than meat. So what’s the big deal? Spirulina is a very nutrient-dense food source which I have found to be very detoxifying and alkalizing for my body. If you can get your hands on frozen spirulina, give that a whirl as I find that it can be less overwhelming in taste.
Food of the future?
As I become more conscious of my diet’s carbon footprint, I’m also looking for food sources that not only promote sustainability but are nutritious enough to support my active lifestyle. Growing plant-based crops for protein like soy, demands large quantities of space and water, which result in causing issues like deforestation in Latin America. Unlike other plant-based proteins, spirulina can be commercially cultivated on a much smaller piece of land.
The amount of land required to grow 1kg worth of protein with spirulina can be as small as an A4 sized paper! Many times smaller compared to 16sqm (4 ping-pong tables) and 190sqm (1.5 swimming lanes) to grow 1kg of protein with soy and beef respectively.
I just love making this recipe as I’m constantly amazed at the mermaid- blue hue from the algae. It’s super quick, easy, creamy and nutritious! Do good, feel good!
Super Creamy Spirulina Hemp Oat Milk
Makes 500ml
Ingredients
5 tbs hulled hemp seeds
2 tbs rolled oats
500ml water
1 tsp spirulina powder / 20g frozen spirulina
Pinch of sea salt
Coconut palm sugar or dates, to taste (optional)
Instructions
Place in blender and blend on high till super smooth, or soak overnight and blend in the morning for extra creaminess.
Life hack:
1. Omit the spirulina and make hemp and oat milk for your coffees and teas
2. Include the spirulina and make a nutrition- packed matcha-spirulina latte