Hemp Hearts
Hemp hearts, often called hemp seeds, are the tiny seeds of the hemp plant (Cannabis sativa). While the terms "hemp seeds" and "hemp hearts" are often used interchangeably, they are technically not the same. Hemp seeds are the entire seeds of the plant, including the outer shell and can be hard to eat and digest while hemp hearts are shelled hemp seeds most commonly used as food.
Imagine a tiny, treasure-filled capsule packed with nutrients and goodness. That's what a hemp seed is like! These little gems, unlike the psychoactive parts of the hemp plant, are bursting with health benefits and a surprisingly nutty flavor.
They can be eaten raw, roasted, or ground into flour.
Buying hemp hearts or seeds depends on how you’re planning to incorporate them in your food. Hemp hearts have a nutty flavor and smooth texture. They are perfect for snacking, salads, smoothies, and baking. Hemp seeds have a higher fiber content and earthy flavor. They are suitable for sprouting, grinding into flour, or adding to granola.
You can store hemp hearts in an airtight container in your pantry for up to 3 months and in a refrigerator for up to a year.
Sprinkle them on cereals, yogurt, salads, smoothies, stir-fries, and baked goods for a nutritious and flavorful boost.
Use them as a base for plant-based milk, protein powder, or nut butter.
Add them to dips, sauces, and marinades for a unique and healthy twist or enjoy them as a healthy snack on their own or mixed with other nuts and seeds.
Hemp seed oil contains essential fatty acids and nutrients beneficial for skin health. It can be used in lotions, balms, and soaps for its moisturizing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Hemp hearts are like the secret ingredient that unlocks your body's full potential. They're rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, the good fats that keep your heart happy and your mind sharp. They're also packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, making them a complete and healthy snacking option.
Hemp hearts are a complete protein, meaning they contain all nine essential amino acids your body needs. This makes them an excellent source of protein for vegans and vegetarians.
They contain no THC, the psychoactive compound found in marijuana and hemp fiber is incredibly strong and has been used to make ropes and sails for centuries. It's even six times stronger than steel when used in compression. Did you know that the word “canvas” comes from “cannabis” since for thousands of years canvas was made from hemp?
You can replace the traditional pine nuts in pesto with hemp hearts for a unique and flavorful alternative or blend them into your hummus recipe for added protein and a nutty texture.
Make hemp hearts pops by coating fruits or vegetables in melted chocolate and then rolling them in hemp seeds or mix them in with dried fruits, nuts, and spices to create delicious and healthy energy bites for a quick and satisfying snack.
Boasting almost 10 grams of protein per serving, hemp hearts are a valuable plant-based protein source. This can be particularly beneficial for vegans, vegetarians, and individuals looking to increase their protein intake for muscle building or satiety.
Hemp hearts are rich in both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, essential for good heart health, brain function, and overall well-being. The omega-3 to omega-6 ratio in hemp hearts is closer to the ideal ratio recommended for human health, unlike many other sources that tend to be high in omega-6.
Hemp hearts are a good source of both soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber promotes digestive health and lowers cholesterol, while insoluble fiber helps keep you feeling full and promotes regularity.
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