How to Make Mixed Plant Protein Bar (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Mixed Plant Protein Bar is a modern twist on traditional Indian energy snacks like chikki and ladoo, designed for today’s health-conscious lifestyle. Packed with the wholesome goodness of moong dal, chana dal, peanuts (mungfali), and a variety of seeds, this protein bar is naturally sweetened with dates (khajoor) and a touch of jaggery (gur), making it a guilt-free treat. These bars are not only delicious but also offer a convenient and nutrient-dense meal option, perfect for busy workdays or post-workout fueling. Rooted in India’s age-old tradition of using lentils, nuts, and seeds for festive snacks, the Mixed Plant Protein Bar is an ideal choice for those seeking a vegetarian protein source. The combination of pulses and seeds provides a balanced amino acid profile, and the inclusion of oats (jai) and dry fruits adds both texture and flavor. Whether you are celebrating festivals like Makar Sankranti or simply looking for a healthy lunchbox addition, this bar brings together the best of Indian nutrition and taste. Its chewy, nutty, and lightly sweet profile appeals to all age groups, making it a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup Moong dal (split green gram) (lightly roasted)
- 1/4 cup Chana dal (split Bengal gram) (lightly roasted)
- 1/4 cup Oats (jai) (rolled oats preferred)
- 2 tbsp Peanuts (mungfali) (roasted & roughly crushed)
- 2 tbsp Mixed seeds (pumpkin, sunflower, flax, sesame/til) (any combination)
- 6 pieces Dates (khajoor) (pitted and chopped)
- 2 tbsp Jaggery (gur) (grated)
- 2 tbsp Almonds (badam) (chopped)
- 1/4 tsp Cardamom powder (elaichi)
- 1 tbsp Coconut oil (or ghee (for extra aroma))
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1 · Dry roast moong dal
Dry roast moong dal, chana dal, oats, peanuts, and mixed seeds on a tawa until aromatic and slightly golden. Transfer to a large bowl and cool.
Step 2 · Blend roasted dals and oats into a coarse powder using a mixer-grinder
Blend roasted dals and oats into a coarse powder using a mixer-grinder. Add crushed peanuts, seeds, and chopped almonds to the mix.
Step 3 · In a pan
In a pan, heat coconut oil or ghee. Add chopped dates and grated jaggery. Stir on low flame until they melt and become a sticky paste.
Step 4 · Quickly add the dry mixture to the pan and mix thoroughly to coat w...
Quickly add the dry mixture to the pan and mix thoroughly to coat with the melted jaggery-dates blend. Sprinkle cardamom powder and mix again.
Step 5 · Transfer the mixture to a greased thali or tray
Transfer the mixture to a greased thali or tray. Press firmly with a spatula or your hands (use parchment paper to avoid sticking) to form an even slab.
Step 6 · Allow to cool for 10 minutes
Allow to cool for 10 minutes. Cut into bars or squares while still slightly warm.
Step 7 · Let the bars cool completely and store in an airtight dabba
Let the bars cool completely and store in an airtight dabba.
Why this recipe is healthy
This Indian Mixed Plant Protein Bar is a smart choice for anyone tracking calories and macros. It is free from refined sugar, packed with plant protein, and contains only healthy fats from nuts and seeds. The inclusion of whole grains and pulses makes it filling and suitable for weight management. Its nutrient density makes it ideal for both children and adults, and the recipe can be easily adapted for special dietary needs.
A note on tradition
Protein-rich snacks like chikki, tilgul, and nut bars have a long tradition in Indian cuisine, especially during festivals like Makar Sankranti, Lohri, and winter months when energy needs are higher. The Mixed Plant Protein Bar takes inspiration from these classics, combining local lentils, nuts, and seeds in a modern, convenient format. It is often made in Indian homes as a nutritious travel snack or for children’s tiffin dabbas.