Peanut Butter/Banana/Cocoa Protein Shake

This recipe is based on one that Marc invented -- it reminds us of a smoothie we used to frequently order at WorldWrapps in Seattle (yum). I tweaked it a little as a result of some of Jessie's smoothie tricks.

I give you...

Peanut Butter/Banana/Cocoa Protein Shake

2 c. ice
1 c. soy milk (or regular milk)
4 T. peanut butter
1 large scoop of protein powder
1 ripe banana
1 T. cocoa (optional, still very good without it)
1/3 c. uncooked oatmeal
1/2 t. vanilla

Put ice and milk in blender. If you don't have a Blendtec, you may want to blend at this point, to avoid overloading your blender's motor. Or if you're feeling brave, just put all ingredients in at once. Blend until all ingredients are well mixed. Taste to see if you want to add any sweetener (I don't).

Makes 1 giant or 2 regular servings.

You've got your protein, your whole grains, your fruit, your dairy. Nice texture, too. Makes a good post-workout smoothie because all the protein helps to rebuild muscle. Also delicious for breakfast and it stays with you to keep you full for a good while.

If I had a Blendtec to make this smoothie it would be even better because:

1. It would blend up in a flash, narrowing the gap between wanting the smoothie and drinking the smoothie to almost nil!

2. It would pulverize the ice, no more pesky larger ice chunks!

3. It would eliminate the nasty electrical smell that my blender sometimes emits, making me fear it will give up the ghost before finishing my tasty drink.

Here's the one that I want!

If you like it, go vote for it!

Quick Creme Fraîche

It's not the real stuff, but it will do in a pinch. (like when you're in the U.S.!)

1 c. heavy cream
8 oz. nonfat sour cream
1/4 c. sifted powdered sugar

Beat all together in a large bowl until soft peaks form. Refrigerate, covered, several hours.