(Makes 9 squares)

• 250g beetroot (about 2 medium beetroots), boiled, skin removed and diced.

• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 100g dark chocolate (70% cocoa)

• 1 tablespoon instant coffee or 60ml strong espresso

• ½ cup brown sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• ¾ cup self raising flour

• ¼ cup cocoa powder

• ½ teaspoon baking powder

• ½ cup walnuts roughly chopped

• pinch of salt

1. Prep the tin. Preheat oven to 180°C (160°C fan-forced). Line a 20 cm x 20 cm square baking tin with baking paper.

2. Melt the chocolate. In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate with olive oil in 20–30 second bursts, stirring until smooth.

3. Blitz the beetroot mix. In a blender, add diced beetroot, melted chocolate, coffee, sugar, eggs and vanilla. Blend until smooth and creamy.

4. Make the batter. In a large bowl, combine flour, cocoa, baking powder and a pinch of salt. Make a well in the centre and pour in the beetroot mixture. Gently fold until just combined. Pour into the lined baking tin.

5. Add the crunch. Scatter walnuts over the top of the brownie mix. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until just set.

6. Cool & slice. Let the brownie cool completely in the tin, then cut into 9 squares.

Snapshot!

Each brownie square provides 1137 kJ energy and 4.1 g protein.

Total fat is 17 g, with only 4.4 g saturated fat and plenty of heart-friendly fats (8 g MUFA, 3.7 g PUFA).

Carbohydrates sit at 26 g, including 17 g sugars, balanced by 1.7 g fibre.

Sodium is moderate (145 mg), with 231 mg potassium and 115 mg phosphorus.

What it means on the plate

These brownies are an indulgent treat with a nutritious edge. Beetroot brings fibre, colour and natural sweetness, while walnuts and olive oil add heart-healthy fats. Sugar and fat keep it a treat, but a smarter one than a classic brownie.

Food group balance → A sweet treat with a hidden veggie boost and nutty crunch, but still very much a dessert.

• Grains: 0.4 serves (flour)

• Vegetables: 0.5 serves (beetroot)

• Protein foods: 0.25 serves (eggs + walnuts)

CWJ Takeaway

A fudgy, flavour-packed brownie with hidden beetroot and a nutty crunch, indulgent, but with a little extra goodness baked in.