Weight loss based ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats (high in fiber, aids digestion)
- 1 ripe banana (natural sweetness, low in calories)
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil (healthy fats, metabolism-boosting)
- 1 tablespoon jaggery (low-glycemic sweetener)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (metabolism-boosting, anti-inflammatory)
- ½ teaspoon cardamom (digestive health, antioxidant-rich)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (high in fiber, protein-rich)
- ¼ cup unsweetened almond milk (low-calorie, hydrating)
- 2 tablespoons crushed cashews (healthy fats, energy-boosting)
Cooking Methods (Instructions) Focused for Weight Loss
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a small baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a mixing bowl, mash the banana until smooth. Add coconut oil, jaggery, cinnamon, cardamom, and chia seeds. Mix well.
3. Stir in rolled oats and almond milk until the mixture is well combined. Fold in crushed cashews for added crunch and nutrition.
4. Spread the mixture evenly into the prepared baking dish and press down firmly.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the edges are golden brown. Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.
6. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Weight Loss Tips & Advice
1. Use jaggery instead of refined sugar to keep the glycemic index low and avoid blood sugar spikes.
2. Rolled oats and chia seeds are high in fiber, which helps you feel full longer and supports healthy digestion.
3. Coconut oil and cashews provide healthy fats that boost metabolism and energy levels.
4. Cinnamon and cardamom are traditional Sri Lankan spices that not only add flavor but also aid in weight loss by improving metabolism and reducing inflammation.
Conclusion
This Sri Lankan Spiced Banana Oatmeal Bars recipe is an excellent choice for weight loss as it incorporates locally available, nutrient-dense ingredients that are both satisfying and low in calories. The use of traditional spices and natural sweeteners makes it a culturally relevant and healthy option for Sri Lankans. Enjoy these bars as a snack or post-workout treat to stay on track with your weight loss goals.