Who’s ready for a bowl of soothing, gluten-free whole grain goodness? Our Strawberry Banana Buckwheat Bowls are the answer! What is Buckwheat, you might wonder? Buckwheat porridge (or “Cream of Buckwheat”) is an ancient superfood you can cook up just like traditional oatmeal. It’s a complete source of plant-based protein and is naturally gluten-free. Buckwheat is not a relative of wheat (despite the name) and is actually the seed of a fruit high in naturally occurring prebiotics. It has a mild and slightly nutty taste, so we made it into this delicious porridge with Strawberry Lifeway Kefir. Top with fresh fruit and enjoy!
Cultured Dairy: The Nutrition Benefits You Need to Know
With increasing research linking the correlation between probiotics, gut health, and immunity, it’s no secret that the integrity of our gut is vital to our health. Although additional factors such as stress, antibiotic usage, and individual health conditions can contribute to the condition of our gut, a focus on healthy food choices is one of the easiest ways to support the microbiome.
Several studies have shown a strong association between the gut-brain-microbiota. Probiotics introduced to the gut have been found to support immunity, improve allergies, and improve digestion.
Studies have shown that reduced diversity of healthy gut bacteria during early years is associated with an increase in food allergies during school-age years. In addition, kefir made from whole milk helps absorb key nutrients such as Vitamins A, D, E, and K. Vitamin K is important because it helps your bones absorb calcium. It’s important to know that kefir contains a special trio: vitamin D, K, and calcium – all three crucial elements to support bone health.
Prebiotics + Probiotics = a Healthy You
Prebiotics are non-living, non-digestible carbohydrates naturally found in a variety of foods. Your body actually can’t digest prebiotics, so they’re what probiotics feed off of to remain actively working in your digestive system. They help the digestive system by promoting the growth of good bacteria. Prebiotics and probiotics work together in balance to make sure our digestive system stays on track and regular. Research has found that consuming a variety of prebiotic and probiotic food sources may improve your body’s natural functions, including both your immune and digestive systems.
Servings: 2Ingredients
- 1/4 cup Organic Cream of Buckwheat (we like Pocono and Bob's Red Mill brands here)
- 3/4 cup water
- Pinch of pink sea salt
- Dash of pure vanilla extract
- 1/3 freshly sliced banana
- 1/3 cup freshly sliced strawberries
- Your favorite seeds for topping: chia, hemp, flax, etc.
- 1/3 cup Strawberry Lowfat Kefir
Directions
- dd the cream of buckwheat, water, salt, and vanilla to a glass container to cook in the microwave, or a small pot if you want to cook it on the stove. Then cook the cream of buckwheat in the microwave or stovetop for 2-3 minutes just like you would oatmeal, following the package directions depending on the method you use.
- Place in a bowl, and add freshly sliced fruit on top and any seeds you enjoy (flax, chia, hemp, etc.).
- Drizzle Strawberry Lifeway Oat over the top, stir everything together, and enjoy!
- You can also make this recipe overnight-style as well by following the same directions above and placing it in a mason jar to cool and thicken overnight.
