Ingredients

• 160 g cooked brown rice — slightly warm and soft
• 40 g prunes — finely chopped
• 30 g unflavoured or mild chocolate protein powder — plant-based if preferred
• 8 g chia seeds — whole
• 5 g unsweetened cocoa powder — sifted if lumpy
• 2 g ground cinnamon
• 45 ml water — room temperature
• 12 g pumpkin seeds — finely chopped optional

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, stir the chia seeds with the water and let sit for 5–10 minutes until a thick gel forms.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the warm cooked brown rice, chopped prunes, cocoa powder, ground cinnamon, and protein powder, mashing with a fork or spoon until the prunes are evenly dispersed.
3. Stir the chia gel into the rice mixture until well combined; if using, mix in the finely chopped pumpkin seeds for extra texture and magnesium.
4. Let the mixture sit for 3–5 minutes to firm up, then with damp hands form 8 small bite-sized balls and place them on a plate or small tray.
5. Refrigerate for at least 10 minutes to set; serve cool or at room temperature in small portions, chewing slowly and sipping water alongside.