Creative Ways to Use Protein Powder
As you may or may not have guessed, we’re pretty into protein powder here at Suppy. And, because we love it so much, we’ve scoured the internet to find some creative ways to use the stuff. Here are a few of our favourites ways to add taste and nutritional value to your diet, in no particular order.
Shake it Up
The protein ‘shake’ is the standard, and most common, use of whey protein. Simply mix 1 scoop of protein with 250 mL of cold water, shake it up and enjoy. The shake’s convenience lends itself to post-workout consumption and busy mornings. You can swap water for milk, or you’re your favourite dairy substitute. If you’re looking to kick your protein intake up a notch, add an extra scoop to your bottle.
Blend a Smoothie
If a 2-ingredient shake doesn’t quite excite your taste buds, blend up a smoothie to add some flavour. Berries, veggies, and nut-butters combine for a healthy mix of macro and micronutrients. A well-balanced smoothie will benefit your overall health and help you feel fuller for longer. Experiment with different fruits, veggies, and seeds to find something that works for you.
Add it to Your Oatmeal
Oatmeal is loaded with vitamins and packed with fibre, but it can taste pretty bland on its own. This is why cereal companies pack their pouches full of sugary flavour additives. Next time, avoid the refined sugars and mix in a scoop of whey protein. This is a great way to add some taste and nutritional value to your breakfast. Vanilla lends itself best to this particular culinary creation.
Mix it in with Yogurt and Granola
Like oatmeal, yogurt on its own is full of nutritional value, but its protein and probiotics are often drowned out by processed sugars, added in during manufacturing. Invest in some plain Greek yogurt and stir in a scoop of whey protein powder. Add some berries and a small serving of granola to complete the healthy dish.
Make Some Homemade Protein Bars
If you’ve been to a grocery store in the last few years you’ve probably noticed that protein bars are all the rage, and they’re priced like it too. Do yourself a favour and prepare your own.
In a food processor, combine 1 cup of pitted dates with a cup of nuts (I like cashews), a scoop of protein powder, and 2 teaspoons of water.
Once you are satisfied the blended consistency, use a rolling pin to roll the mix flat onto a sheet of parchment paper. You can use a pinch of protein powder as a flour substitute, to prevent sticking. Place another sheet of parchment paper on top on your rolled mix, and then cut the sheet into squares of your desired size.
Roll Some No-Bake Energy Balls
If you’re not into processed foods, or if just don’t have a food processor, try making some no-bake energy bars. Combine some nut-butters, seeds (like flax or chia), steel-cut oats, and a scoop of protein powder in a large bowl. Use a spatula to gently stir, until all of the ingredients are mixed in. When you are satisfied with your blend, use your hands to roll your batch into bite-sized energy balls, and store your creation in the freezer. Play around with ingredient proportions to match your taste buds and nutrition goals; add more nut-butter if you’re looking to add healthy fats, and more oatmeal if you’re looking to increase your carbohydrate, or energy intake.
Whip up Some Protein Pancakes
If you want to add some nutritional value to your Sunday morning treat, then look no further than protein pancakes. We’ve all seen these delicious creations on Instagram, and yes, they are as tasty as they look.
To make them, simply mix:
- ¾ cup whole wheat flour
- ½ cup milk (or dairy substitute of your choosing)
- 1 scoop of whey protein powder (we’d recommend vanilla)
- 1 egg white
- 2 tablespoon of sugar (or 1 packet of stevia)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Cook the mix on griddle or frying pan, as you would with standard pancakes, until the desired consistency is achieved.
If you’ve landed on other creative ‘wheys’ to use protein powder, hit us up on Facebook or Instagram. We’re always looking to up our game.