Native to the Andes of Peru, maca is a root vegetable that has stood the test of time. It looks like a radish, and it’s been used for centuries in Traditional Medicine as a way to promote sexual wellbeing, energy, and stamina.*¹ These small but mighty root veggies are harvested, and then made into a powder or capsules for easy consumption.

Maca has a nutty, earthy taste with a hint of butterscotch, making it a nice addition to oatmeal, cereals, smoothies, and drinks. Just be sure to pick a maca powder that’s gelatinized, which means it’s been cooked down, and easier to digest.

Add this superfood to your diet with these super-simple recipes:

When you hit the dreaded 3 pm “wall”, it’s tempting to reach for sugary snacks. Instead, try these vegan-friendly energy bites with maca, and everybody’s favorite, chocolate!

Ingredients
1 cup shredded coconut, unsweetened
1 cup almond flour/meal
½ tbsp maca powder
½ tbsp coconut sugar (or sweetener of your choice)
½ cup melted coconut oil
½ tsp vanilla extract
1 pinch of cinnamon
1 pinch of sea salt
Cacao powder, for dusting

Directions
Mix all ingredients with a food processor or by hand.
Roll into balls and dust with cacao powder.
Chill in the fridge until firm.
Enjoy!

Support your active lifestyle with these energy bars filled with maca, and other superfoods. Perfect as breakfast, a snack, or pre-workout fuel.

Ingredients
1 cup oats
½ cup pitted Medjool dates
¼ cup almond butter
¼ cup honey
¼ cup ground flaxseed
2 tbsp maca powder
3 tbsp chia seeds
1 tsp cinnamon
Pinch of sea salt

Directions
Mix all ingredients in a food processor until it forms a dough-like consistency.
Line an 8” baking dish with parchment paper.
Press dough into the pan, spreading evenly until flat.
Refrigerate until firm, approximately two hours.
Remove from the refrigerator and cut into rectangular bars.
Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container.

Maca powder has a strong, nutty taste that pairs well with coconut oil, cinnamon, and cacao powder. This smoothie brings them all together, and is a tasty way to start your day!

Ingredients
1 cup almond or coconut milk, unsweetened
½ frozen banana
¼ tsp cinnamon
1 tsp maca powder
1 tbsp chia seeds
2 tsp organic coconut oil (optional)

Directions
Blend all ingredients until smooth.
Pour into a glass and enjoy!

Adding maca, cacao powder, and cinnamon turns this childhood classic into an energetic, go-getter.

Ingredients
3 cups almond milk, oat milk, or milk alternative
2 ½ tbsp cacao powder
1 tbsp maca powder
2 tbsp maple syrup
½ tsp coconut oil
Pinch of cinnamon
Pinch of nutmeg
Pinch of salt

Optional toppings
Marshmallows (or vegan marshmallow alternative)
A sprinkle of cacao powder
Shaved dark chocolate

Directions
Blend almond milk, cacao powder, maca, maple syrup, coconut oil, cinnamon, and salt.
Pour into a small saucepan, and heat through, being careful not to scald.
Taste and adjust sweetness to your liking
Pour into your favorite mug, and enjoy!

If you’re looking to add a little sexual health and vitality support to your diet, maca could be the way to go.*¹ What other recipes have you tried with maca? Let us know in the comments below.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

References

¹ Sandoval M, Miller MJ. (2002). Food Chem. 79:207-213.