Grain-free, Gluten-free Chocolate Brownies

Just in time for Valentine’s Day. A delicious fudge brownie! If you like coconut and nuts, add the optional ingredients to make this dessert even more decadent.

Because of allergies and tummy troubles, many people are looking for alternatives in their eating plans. You may be aware that gluten (the protein portion of wheat, barley, and rye) is inflammatory and harmful to your body. Removing gluten can help reduce inflammation for those with autoimmune diseases (Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Crohn’s, Psoriasis, or Multiple Sclerosis, to name a few). However, because gluten has such excellent culinary properties, it is widely used in the food industry. Gluten provides a sticky, gooey consistency which helps not only baked products (bread and sweet rolls) but also gummy candies (think licorice and Twizzlers), is a glue for meat products like lunchmeat and chicken nuggets, and as a thickener in soups and condiments. On top of this gluten issue, grains are highly sprayed with the pesticide Roundup which can cause G.I. issues and is a carcinogen.

All of the above information can sound overwhelming and discouraging. However, there are many recipes that are delicious, healthy, and easy to make while not containing gluten or grains. Here is a simple recipe using sweet potatoes, cocoa powder, nut butter, and maple syrup. This dessert will satisfy the best of the chocolate lovers.

No Grain, Gluten-Free Brownies

Ingredients

1 cup already baked sweet potato

1/4 cup cocoa powder

1/2 cup almond butter (or other nut butter)

1/4 cup maple syrup

Optional:

1/2 cup shredded coconut

1/2 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

1. Place sweet potatoes in a food processor (or use your beaters in a medium bowl)

2. Once smooth, add the rest of the ingredients

3. Thoroughly combine.

4. Spread into an 8-inch round or square pan

5. Bake at 350 for 15 min.

6. This is a gooey brownie, so it will still look wet on top.

7. Let cool.

8. Add raspberries or other toppings like sprinkled with powdered sugar, whipped cream, or fruit preserve.