DIY Protein Smoothie (No Powder)
What to do when you're out of protein powder and committed to not ordering more
The instinct to use black beans was heterodox but not wrong — they work best in a chocolate context where other flavors can support them. The real workhorses here are egg whites (flavorless, high protein), oats (add body and some protein), and peanut butter (flavor + fat + protein). Add frozen fruit for sweetness and texture.
Base Recipe
- 1 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- ¼ cup pasteurized liquid egg whites
- ⅓ cup rolled oats (raw is fine — no need to cook first)
- 2 tbsp peanut or almond butter
- 1 cup frozen fruit (banana, berries, mango)
Blend until smooth. The oats soften from the liquid — soak 5 min first if you want extra smooth.
Chocolate Black Bean Smoothie
The only context where black beans belong in a smoothie.
- ½ cup cooked black beans (plain, no spices)
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 banana
- 1 cup milk
- Vanilla extract, pinch of salt
- Sweetener to taste
- Peanut butter (optional)
Blend until very smooth. The beans add creaminess and protein; the chocolate covers the earthy flavor.
Notes
Rolled oats go in raw — cooking them first makes the texture gummy. For beans: they need a very good blender and plenty of chocolate to work.