Nibbler's Nightshade-Free Nuggets
Oh, sweeties, if you've ever worried about your hammy nibbling on something they shouldn’t, these Nibbler’s Nightshade-Free Nuggets are here to put your mind at ease! This recipe is made without any nightshade plants (like tomatoes, potatoes, or peppers) which can be tricky for hamster tummies. These nuggets are packed with hamster-safe veggies like carrots, green beans, and a sprinkle of flaxseed for a dash of healthy fat. With a soft texture and savory flavor, these bite-sized treats are perfect for hamsters who love a little variety in their diet, minus the risky nightshades!
Equipment
- Small mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Fork or small whisk
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Oven
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp oat flour or finely ground oats if you don’t have oat flour
- 1 tbsp finely grated carrot provides a bit of natural sweetness
- 1 tbsp finely chopped green beans full of fiber and safe for hamsters
- 1/2 tbsp ground flaxseed for healthy fats and fiber
- 1/2 tbsp unsweetened applesauce to add moisture and natural sweetness
- 1/2 tbsp water as needed, to help bind everything together
- A pinch of dried parsley for a hint of flavor and hamster-safe greens
- A tiny pinch of dried basil or thyme for added aroma; just a pinch is enough
Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a small mixing bowl, combine the oat flour and ground flaxseed. Stir gently with a fork to get an even mixture.
- Add the Veggies: Fold in the grated carrot and finely chopped green beans. Make sure the veggie pieces are very small, so they mix well and don’t overpower the nuggets. If using parsley or basil, add it now for a bit of extra flavor.
- Add the Wet Ingredients: Add the unsweetened applesauce and a tiny bit of water. Stir until the mixture comes together into a soft dough. It should be moist but not too sticky. If it’s too dry, add a drop or two more of water until it holds together.
- Shape the Nuggets: Use your hands or a small spoon to form the dough into tiny nugget shapes, about the size of a small marble or hamster kibble. Place each nugget onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them.
- Bake the Nuggets: Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the nuggets are firm to the touch and lightly golden. Be careful not to overbake, as you want them to have a soft texture that’s easy for hamsters to nibble.
- Cool Completely: Remove the nuggets from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet. Make sure they’re fully cooled before serving to your hamster.
- Serve and Store: Give one nugget as a special treat and store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer storage.