I’m a big smoothie lover, for so many reasons. It’s quick, easy, filling, you can have them on the go, and you can hide all sorts of things in a well thought out smoothie! Even mushrooms! Trust me. I make this smoothie regularly and barely get through the first few sips before my toddler demands the rest!

This particular smoothie’s main hero’s are peanut butter, cacao and banana, a winning tried and true combo. It’s chocolatey, thick, dense and filling with just the right amount of sweetness. The interesting ingredient here is the lion’s mane, and the best bit is the strong trio of flavours totally masks that lion’s mane taste!

Lion’s Mane

Lion’s mane is like the cool kid in the mushroom world, not just because of its pom-pom cheerleader like appearance, but also because it packs some serious health perks. This medicinal mushroom has been celebrated for centuries in traditional medicine for its remarkable properties, particularly its potential to support cognitive function and neurological health. Rich in bioactive compounds such as hericenones and erinacines, lion’s mane is believed to stimulate nerve growth factor (NGF) production, which plays a crucial role in nerve cell health and regeneration. Beyond its cognitive benefits, lion’s mane also exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, contributing to overall well-being. And even better, it’s a highly sustainable crop. You can grow lion’s mane on all sorts of stuff, even things like leftover sawdust and straw. So, it’s not just good for you; it’s good for the planet too. Talk about a fun-gi with benefits!

Lion’s Mane is easily accessible now days, being sold in supermarkets and health food stores frequently. It is purchased usually in powder form and so can easily be added to your daily diet without too much notice, even in smoothies such as these!

Frequently asked questions:

1. What is lion’s mane powder, and why use it in this smoothie? Lion’s mane powder is derived from the lion’s mane mushroom, known for its potential cognitive benefits, including improved focus and memory. Incorporating it into this smoothie adds an extra nutritional boost, making it a brain-healthy choice.
2. Can I use either regular peanut butter or powdered peanut butter protein powder? Absolutely! While powdered peanut butter adds a protein boost, you can use regular peanut butter for its creamy texture and nutty flavor. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preferences.
3. Can I customize the ingredients to suit my dietary preferences? Certainly! Feel free to tailor the recipe to your liking. You can add other fruits such as berries or spinach for additional nutrients, or swap add in with other flavorings like almond or peppermint extract for a twist.

Tips for the perfect smoothie!

1. Freeze your bananas in advance: To achieve a thick and creamy texture, freeze ripe bananas beforehand. Simply peel and slice them before freezing, ensuring they’re ready whenever the smoothie craving strikes.
2. Experiment with toppings: While cacao nibs add a delightful crunch to this smoothie, don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings. Try shredded coconut, chopped nuts, frozen berries, a drizzle of peanut butter, pepitas or chia seeds, for added flavor and texture.
3. Adjust sweetness to taste: If you prefer a sweeter smoothie, you can add a natural sweetener such as dates. Taste the smoothie before blending and adjust the sweetness accordingly.
4. Blend until smooth: For the perfect consistency, blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy. If necessary, pause and scrape down the sides of the blender to ensure everything is well incorporated.
5. Chilled is best – If you want to make your smoothie that bit colder, add in a handful of ice. Be sure not to add too much otherwise you’ll end up with a frappe!

Indulge in a delicious blend of flavors and nutrients packed with the goodness of frozen banana, rich cacao powder, and the brain-boosting benefits of lion’s mane powder, this smoothie is a perfect way to kickstart your day or refuel post-workout. Enjoy!