Green Pancakes

Makes 8 pancakes.
5 minute prep time.
10 minute cook time.

I discovered these pancakes when Devyn was around 8 months old. A child is not likely to reach for leafy greens on their plate, and not a practical food to hand an infant – especially with no teeth. But that doesn’t mean we have to hold off introducing these micronutrient-rich foods to their little bodies – as a great source of fiber, protein, iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and vitamins A & K (for healthy eyes). Green veggies also provide the phytonutrient chlorophyll, which can be protective against cancer, reduce inflammation, and feeds our good gut bugs.

This is a nutritious and delicious breakfast for baby-led weaning, toddlers & kids, as well as adults.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup packed fresh spinach or kale
• 1 ripe banana
• 1 flax egg
• ½ cup oat milk
• 2 tbsp. applesauce
• 1 tsp. cinnamon
• 1 tsp. baking powder
• 1 tsp. vanilla
• Dash of salt 

Directions:

1. Place all ingredients into a blender (baking powder last). Blend until all ingredients combine, about 30 seconds. 
2. Heat a non-stick or cast iron pan over medium heat. Drop batter by ¼ cup into pan, cooking 2-3 minutes on each side. 
3. Serve with a thin spread of peanut or almond butter, a sprinkle of hemp hearts, and a drizzle of maple syrup.

Recipe notes:

• To make a flax egg: combine 1 tbsp. ground flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp. water, let rest 5 minutes before mixing into batter.
• Kale is a great substitute for spinach, but the pancakes don’t turn out quite as vibrantly green.
• These pancakes freeze very well. Simply let cool to room temperature, place on a cookie sheet, freeze a few hours, and store in an air-tight container. Pop them in the toaster for a quick breakfast.

It is also important to note that you’ll need a good blender to get the right consistency for these pancakes to cook properly. I’ve tried them in a food processor but they flop (literally). I use a 24oz single serve Ninja blender – but any strong blender with a blade at the bottom should work just fine.