There is not much that makes me happier than waffles on a Saturday morning! It is so satisfying to be able to enjoy these waffles without feeling guilty for indulging in a sweet breakfast. I think carbs have gotten a very bad rep recently. Between all the fad diets lately, people have become scared to eat carbs! Carbohydrates are necessary for human function.  Cutting all types of carbs is not a sustainable way to live. There is a HUGE difference between simple carbs and complex carbs:

Complex Carbohydrates: Complex carbs are made up of sugar molecules that are strung together in long, complex chains. It is turned to glucose in the body, where it is eventually used for energy. Complex carbs also provide fiber, vitamins and minerals, and they are broken down more slowly in the body and have a lower glycemic index. The fiber content of complex carbs also keeps you fuller longer. Examples of complex carbs are: beans, squash, quinoa, brown rice, sweet potato, whole grains, amaranth, barley, and oats.

Simple Carbohydrates: Simple carbs often have little to no nutritional value.They include refined flours, which have been stripped of their nutrient and fiber content, including the bran, germ, or endosperm. They are made up of sugar molecules in shorter chains, and are rapidly broken down and absorbed in the body. Rapid absorption of glucose molecules causes a spike in blood sugar and quick boost in energy, followed by a “crash”. Examples of simple carbs include: white bread, white rice, most baked goods (unless made with whole wheat or oat flour), soda, candy, and chips. Technically fruit is considered a simple carb, but due to the fiber and nutrient content, they act more like complex carbs and should be consumed daily.

If you focus on complex carbs and cut the simple carbs, I promise you will have more energy and feel more focused. Just remember to read labels when purchasing food items. Look for high fiber content and look at the ingredient list; aim for 5+ grams of fiber and whole ingredients.

Recipe:

Cook Time: 30 minutes      |        Yield: 8-10 Waffles

Waffles:

• 2 cups almond milk
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 1/2 cups oatflour
• 1 cup whole wheat flour
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 1/2 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• Dash of cinnamon
• 2 tbsp oil

Strawberry syrup:

• 1 lb strawberries (fresh or frozen)
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 cup orange juice

Directions:

1. Add all ingredients for strawberry syrup into a sauce pan and warm over medium heat. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Heat your waffle iron, and mix the almond milk and vinegar together in a small bowl and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together oat flour, whole wheat flour, brown sugar, baking powder, salt and cinnamon. Once it is all mixed, add in the almond milk mixture and the oil. Whisk everything until there are no more dry spots.
4. Spray your waffle iron so these babies don’t stick, and once they’re done top with your syrup and in this case @foragerproject as well! Enjoy!

Dana Stapleton, RDN

Hi, I’m Dana! Creating delicious plant-based meals and nutrition is my passion! Thanks for visiting!