This DIY 5-seed vegan protein blend is the perfect recipe for plant-based foodies that want a clean, cheaper way to add protein to your diet without having to shell out big bucks for a good quality, healthy protein powder. Plus it’s gluten free, nut free and grain free!
Vegan protein powders have definitely become more readily available in the last few years. Honestly, I know there are some great options out there. However, they can be hard to find at an affordable price, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed in the process. So here is my recipe for an easy 5-seed DIY Vegan protein powder/blend and a list of the benefits of each seed.
Honestly, I love being able to make my own protein blend that is full of clean ingredients. This protein blend contains no additives or unnecessary ingredients. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve spotted protein powders in stores and have been blown away by how many additives there are in what is meant to be ‘all natural’ and ‘healthy’ for our bodies. Plus, it works out SO much cheaper than store bought versions, in the long run. Especially if you have most of the ingredients in the your kitchen anyway ( which I do).
This protein is made up of a 5-seed blend: Hemp seeds, chia seeds, linseed, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds. Each seed has its own health benefits to give you a nutritional boost along with a protein punch.
The Benefits of this 5-seed Vegan protein powder:
All the health benefits of this powder really come down to the individual ingredients used within the recipe. Below are some of my favourite benefits of each seed.
The Benefits of Hemp Seeds:
Hemp seeds are not only a great source of protein, but they are also a great source of magnesium, high fibre and low salt. In just one tablespoon of hemp seeds, there is over 3g protein too. With the seeds being one of the only Vegan ‘complete sources of protein’. This basically means that they provide all nine essential amino acids that make up protein, which can’t be produced naturally by our bodies.
Hemp seeds also apparently reduce the risk of heart disease, due to its high amounts of an amino acid. This helps to lower blood pressure and inflammation. As well as being a good source for healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for your immune system. They and also used to help skin conditions, including eczema and dry, itchy skin.
The Benefits of Chia seeds:
Chia seeds are an absolute favourite ingredient of mine. So much so that I add them to SO many of my recipes including The Best 5 healthy Dessert Inspired Overnight Oats. They are also incredibly nutritious, yet relatively low calorie.
A single tablespoon is not only loaded with healthy fiber, omega-3 fatty acids and other micronutrients. It also contains only 68kcal and 2g protein. Plus, they are a low-carb food because the majority of the carbs within them are fiber that isn’t digested. In fact, chia seeds are 40% fiber and great for your gut health.
Chia seeds also contain high levels of antioxidants, which fight free radicals, thus contributing to the prevention of cancer and signs of ageing. Plus, due to their gel-like consistency when mixed with liquids, chia seeds often expand in the stomach, thus keeping you feeling fuller for longer.
Benefits of Linseed ( also known as flaxseed) :
Linseed is a particularly good source for protein, fiber, omega-3 fatty acids like the other seeds used for this blend ( thus also having the same health benefits). However, they are also a rich source for various vitamins and minerals. Just one tablespoon of linseed contains 1.3g protein and is only 37kcal.
They also contain a nutrient known as lignans. These include potent antioxidants and help prevent cancerous cells. They have also been known to help improve cholesterol, lower blood pressure, control blood sugar as well as decrease hunger pangs due to its viscous nature when mixed with liquids ( much like chia seeds).
Benefits of Pumpkin Seeds:
Pumpkin seeds contain 1g protein and around 38kcal per tablespoon and are a rich source of magnesium, iron & zinc as well as antioxidants and many other nutrients, meaning there are lots of health benefits to including these in your diet.
For example, pumpkin seeds are great for heart & bone health, blood pressure and regulating blood sugar levels due to the high magnesium content.
They are also known as a preventative for many cancers, including stomach, lung and breast cancer. As well as improved heart health and healthy cholesterol, to lower blood sugar levels and even to improve sleep. Just to name a few…
Benefits of Sunflower seeds:
Last but not least is sunflower seeds. This small but mighty seed is filled to the brim with nutrients. A healthy dose of magnesium, potassium, zinc, iron, folate as well as essential fats and Vitamins A, B and E. They also contain 2g protein per tablespoon and ZERO cholesterol.
Because of all the excellent nutrients inside these little seeds, they come with all sorts of health benefits. These include lowering blood sugar levels, blood pressure and cholesterol as well as being heart-healthy, and a natural anti-inflammatory.
How to make this 5-seed Vegan protein powder/blend:
The best part about making your own protein poweder is how ridiculously simple the process is. Simply blend up each of your seeds individually, into a fairly fine powder, mix these with some homemade vanilla powder and then deposit into a large airtight container. Voila!
How to use this 5-seed vegan protein powder:
Personally, I love to use this protein blend as a ‘topper’ first and foremost. Topping smoothie bowls, with yogurt and fruit, over salads etc. I also use it as a filler for sauces ( if you omit the vanilla then this can be added to pasta sauces and soups), smoothies, a tbsp within any overnight oats recipe and within baked goods. You can even try to incorporate it into the crust of my tart recipes, for a little protein boost to your dessert.
In fact, if you give this recipe a go, then let me know your favourite ways to use it in the comments below!
If you’re looking for any other DIY inspiration, then I have lots to choose from. From How to make Coconut Butter, to Homemade Oat Milk ( that isn’t slimy) or even DIY Homemade Vegan Nutella. In fact, I have quite a few homemade milks, cheeses, baking ingredients and more. PLUS, I’m making it a mission to try to upload one new DIY every single day!
If you give this DIY a go, then please let me know in the comments below! Also, I love to see your creations, so feel free to tag me @AlphaFoodie.
DIY 5-Seed Vegan Protein Powder / Blend
This DIY 5-seed vegan protein blend is the perfect recipe for plant-based foodies that want a clean, cheaper way to add protein to your diet without having to shell out big bucks for a good quality, healthy protein powder.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup hemp seeds
- 1/2 cup chia seeds
- 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/2 cup sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup linseeds
- 1/4 tsp vanilla powder
Instructions
- Grind each ingredient separately in a spice grinder/ food processor until a fine flour. Be careful not to over grind.
- Mix all ingredients together and add the vanilla to the mixture
- Store in an air-tight container in a dry dark place to use for up to two weeks or it can be stored in the refrigerator to allow it to last longer. (I prefer to store mine in the fridge)
Notes
- Do not grind all ingredients together at once in the food processor, as the hemp seeds and linseeds can be difficult to get a fine flour texture and may take longer.
- I use 1 Tbsp in smoothies or sprinkle in salads or cookies or oatmeal
