The secret ingredient in this smoothie is Black lemon powder, the name comes from the direct translation of its Arabic name, but it actually comes from dried limes. It has a tart-y sweet flavor, making it perfect for soups or desserts that contain dates.

You can also use the dried lemon as a whole in stews and soups, simply just by throwing it in the pot while it cooks, then when you're eating, just poke the lemon and the juice will come running out of it, just don't eat the lemon itself, it's very sour and unpleasant!

Base:

• 12 oz silken tofu*
• 1/2 cup almond milk
• 1/4 cup cottage cheese (sub for a frozen banana or coconut/soy yogurt)
• 1 frozen banana
• 1-3 dates (soaked in water for 10 minutes) save the water in case you need to make your smoothie smoother.
• 2 tbsp raw cocoa powder
• 1 scoop chocolate protein powder optional
• 1/2 tbsp ground flaxseed
• dash of ginger
• a lot of cinnamon
• a dash of black lemon powder
• sweetener of choice. Honey, agave, or brown sugar would be perfect!

Toppings #1

• 1 tbsp crunchy salted peanut butter
• shredded coconut
• ground flaxseed
• cocoa nibs

Toppings #2

• 1/2 banana
• ground flaxseed
• pomegranate seeds
• raw cocoa nibs
• crunchy salted peanut butter
• dash of cinnamon

*Sometimes you need more liquid in your smoothie base, depending on the tofu you're using.