Let’s face it, we all crave comfort foods when we are feeling down or discouraged. As much as we strive to stay “up” during everything that cancer and its treatment brings, I don’t know anyone who is completely immune to the occasional blues. So, every now and then, it’s ok to treat yourself and, in the process, treat yourself. How many of us remember fondly the home-baked goodies our moms or grandmothers made on special occasions, and for how many of us was that treat brownies? Well, here’s a recipe that will allow you to both indulge on occasion and nourish yourself (and maybe have some fun in the process). The primary ingredient in these brownies is black beans, which are high in fiber, folate, protein and antioxidants. As such, they can be helpful in regulating blood sugar and aiding digestion. Moreover, because they contain several flavonoids and phytochemicals, some research suggests that they may have anti-carcinogenic benefits. Make enough to share (who knows, some of our “non-cancer” friends may enjoy them too)!
- Canola oil spray
- 1 can (15-oz.) reduced-sodium black beans, rinsed and drained
- 3 large eggs
- 3 Tbsp. canola oil
- 1⁄4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- Pinch of salt
- 1⁄2 Tbsp. vanilla extract
- 2⁄3 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 3 Tbsp. bittersweet or dark chocolate chips
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Coat 8-inch baking pan with canola oil spray
In food processor, place beans, eggs, canola oil, cocoa powder, salt, vanilla and brown sugar and blend until smooth. Remove blade and carefully stir in chocolate chips.
Transfer mixture to prepared pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a clean dry knife inserted in center comes out clean.
Cool before cutting into squares.
Makes 16 servings (1 brownie each).
Per serving: 110 calories, 5 g total fat (1 g saturated fat),15 g carbohydrates, 3 g protein, 2 g dietary fiber, 64 mg sodium.
You can find this recipe and others at www.aicr.org.
