By Dr Clare Bailey with Dr Sarah Schenker, foreword by Dr Michael Mosley

Pear and Brazil Nut Chocolate Brownies

“The pear and Brazil nuts give these brownies a lovely subtle flavour. And what’s more, Brazil nuts are an excellent source of minerals, particularly selenium (important for thyroid function and the immune system). Cut the brownies small and freeze any left over. They make a great after-dinner treat.” p. 191

Makes 16

60g pitted dates, finely chopped

60g coconut oil (or unsalted butter, softened), plus extra to grease

3 eggs

100g ground almonds

1 pear, quartered and cored, skin on

140g dark chocolate (70% cocoa solids)

25g Brazil nuts, chopped

Pinch of salt

• CALORIES 155
• PROTEIN 3G
• FAT 12G
• FIBRE 1G
• CARBS 10G

Preheat the oven to 180°C and grease a 20cm square cake tin. Put the dates in a small saucepan with a splash of water. Cover and gently simmer for 3-5 minutes or until they soften. Allow them to cool, then blend them with the coconut oil in a food processor or with a hand blender. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl and add the eggs, then the ground almonds, and beat until everything is incorporated. Dice the pear into ½cm squares and stir it into the mixture too.

Melt the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over, but not touching, a pan of steaming water (or microwave it on a medium heat for 1-2 minutes). Allow it to cool a bit before stirring it into the brownie mixture. Pour the mixture into the tin and bake it for 15-20 minutes, or until a knife comes out clean.

Delicious with a dollop of crème fraîche (adds 90 calories).