Originally, I didn’t bring my food processor to the island because it’s not exactly little or light, but after talking with my co-workers about how much I love making -and eating- banana ice cream, I decided I should probably bring it up. Conveniently, I took a couple days off to go camping with my family and had my sister bring it with her so I could get it.
Camping was so relaxing and I always enjoy spending time with the whole family. Something I’ve noticed about moving around a lot is that I keep making new groups of friends and although I really appreciate the new relationships I form, the feeling of spending time with family and long time friends is irreplaceable. My dad also surprised all of us kids with a trip on the ferry from Ludington, Michigan to Manitowoc, Wisconsin. It’s something we’ve always wanted to do since we were kids. We only had one full day together as a whole family so we rode there for four hours, stayed in Wisconsin for two, and then headed back. Eight hours on that boat flew by after exploring, watching movies, sunbathing on the bow of the boat, and playing some good ‘ol bingo.
We were relieved to see there was a ‘quiet room’ just in case we became over-stimulated from all the activities available to us on the boat!
When I returned, I couldn’t wait to make my first batch of banana (‘nana’) ice cream. For those who are unfamiliar with what this is, it’s vegan ice cream made in the food processor (using the ‘S’ blade) from bananas and whatever other flavorings you want to add. It’s super easy and super tasty, and the best part is that you don’t have to feel guilty about anything as long as you use wholesome ingredients to flavor it! I’d love to show you many different ways to jazz up the ice cream, and I’ll most likely post many different variations of this throughout the summer. The texture is like a soft serve ice cream, but the consistency can be catered to your liking depending on how much non-dairy milk you add.
I decided to add some protein powder to this one to make this treat the perfect pre-workout snack. My mom found this whey protein powder, and I like it because it is from 100% grass-fed cows that aren’t given growth hormones and antibiotics.
I’d also like to make a side note about my food processor. I’ve learned that the best way to acquire kitchen appliances while in college was asking for them for Christmas. I’m sure I’m not the only one who doesn’t really have hundreds of extra dollars to spend on different machines to use in the kitchen. I got a juicer for Christmas two years ago, and this last Christmas I got my food processor. I love these two with a passion and use them regularly.
- 1-2 bananas, frozen
- ½ tsp. vanilla extract
- ¼-1/2 tsp. cinnamon
- 1 tsp. black-strap molasses
- 1 scoop protein powder of choice
- dash of sea salt
- non-dairy milk, as needed
- Place bananas in food processor and process until they appear grainy.
- Add other ingredients and small amounts of milk until the ice cream reaches the consistency you’d like (I do only a couple tablespoons).
I have chia seeds in the picture because I wanted to add them to the bowl at the end for some added protein and fiber, but I totally forgot. It was a good idea anyway 😉
Enjoy!
Sarah