Breakfast. It has to be easy, quick, tasty and a powerhouse! I need to start my day fueled and ready to go: whether I'm hitting the gym, diving into a complex problem at work, or just dealing with something crazy my kids, husband or dogs have thrown at me! Keeping my blood sugar even keeps me sane, and ensuring I do not get hangry has become an essential part of any day. The solution? Peanut butter (Omega 6 and fats), banana (the ultimate moderator of blood sugar), chia seeds & hemp seeds (Omega-3 & protein) and shredded coconut (fiber) plus whole grain bread (more fiber) all combined in a quick, easy and tasty breakfast. Love it for it's simplicity and benefits!
Sustainability Spotlight: The environmental impact of growing bananas (assuming you are purchasing Rainforest Alliance certified crop) are relatively low. However, bananas, from a distance traveled perspective, are not the most sustainable. Most bananas are imported from countries outside of the United States and largely from South America. South America where the world's largest (and also fastest diminishing) rainforest lives. Large swathes of the rainforest have been cut down to support crops such as bananas due to the profitability of consumer demand. So, why are you saying they are sustainable exactly? I'm spotlighting bananas as a sustainability case study, if you will. Banana production has come a long way on ethical (fair) trade practices, and sustainability of crop through active groups such as the Rainforest Alliance. Bananas are "proof" that humans can change or modify our approach to crop harvest, and growth to be more sustainable. That worth going more "bananas" for sustainability. To see how the Rainforest Alliance is supporting the change needed for the sustainability of this crop here.
Ingredients:
1 large slice of whole grain bread (cut in half) or 2 slices (if small)
1 small ripe banana (sliced into coins)
1 tbsp smooth natural peanut butter (divided)
1 tsp organic chia seeds (divided)
1 tsp organic hemp seeds (divided)
1/2 tbsp shredded unsweetened coconut (divided)
Directions:
Toast bread in conventional toaster (medium)
While bread is still warm, spread half of the peanut butter on one slice, top of half of the banana coins, sprinkle 1/2 of the chia seeds, 1/2 of the hemp seeds and 1/2 of the coconut.
Repeat above with the second slice.
Serve warm on plates.
With love & hope for a better future for us all - Jamie