Recipe for Discovery - Tatsoi Saag

We grow by discovering who we are.  Ask questions.  Inquire within.  Have an open mind and an open heart.  Discover new things about yourself.  Often the only person holding us back is ourselves.  Through processes of self-discovery, we can see new paths, understand new ideas, and go in new directions.  


Keep in mind that usually the best opportunities for discovery are the difficult situations of life or what we perceive as life's greatest challenges.  Let moments of discovery energize you.


Use discovery as a way to move forward.  Embrace whatever you discover and use it on your own personal journey.  Share what you discover and make a difference for others.

Recipe for Discovery - Tatsoi Saag

Ingredients:

• 1 avocado
• 1/2 fresh lemon juiced
• 1 cup raw cashews or pine nuts - soaked for 2-4 hours
• 2 TB coconut oil/butter
• 1 tsp ginger powder (or fresh grated ginger root)
• 1 TB curry powder
• dash of nutmeg
• dash of coriander
• 2 bunches of tatsoi (washed well) - coarse chopped

1. In a 4+ cup food processor, combine all ingredients EXCEPT 1 Bunch of Tatsoi with the "S" blade until smooth and creamy.
2. Add in the 2nd Bunch of Tatsoi by pulse chopping.
3. Serve with flax crackers or sprouted wild rice, slices of fresh bell pepper, or halved cherry tomatoes.

This recipe makes 4-6 servings.


Discover raw food and discover tatsoi.  Full of essential nutrients, enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, this recipe will provide the benefit of raw vegan energy for any diet.


Discover TATSOI.  
What exactly is tatsoi?
Tatsoi is a dark, leafy green vegetable, also known as spinach mustard, spoon mustard, or rosette bok choy.  Its leaves resemble bok choy, its flavor is milder than mustard, and it is a suitable substitute for spinach in many recipes.  Tatsoi is a wonderful green with a delicious distinctive flavor.


Tatsoi can be found at your local farmer's market and should be washed well several times (usually it is planted in sand) before eating.  You will likely find it in the fall.


Like most other greens, tatsoi is high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as being a good source of calcium, iron, potassium, and phosphorous.  

Recipe for Satisfaction - Green Goddess Chips

To be satisfied is to have just enough - no more, no less.  To be satisfied is to please the taste buds, to quench the thirst.  To be satisfied is to consume a healthy balance of nutrition and calories and quell the desire for more.  Satisfaction is the state of non-greed, non-hoarding.  Satisfaction is that divine state of bliss where all is well: everyone has been fed; everyone has been nourished; everyone has been given exactly what was needed; everyone is grateful.


When the Rolling Stones sang "I cain't get no...satis-fact-ion", it is because they never had these absolutely divine green chips.  If you have given up potato chips, these will be a satisfying alternative!

Recipe for Satisfaction - Green Goddess Chips
Equipment: dehydrator with Teflex sheets, mixing bowl, whisk
Ingredients:

• 2 bunches of kale or collards (or a little of both): Tear into medium-size pieces; they will shrink in the dehydrator.
• about 1/2 cup raw tahini
• 1 clove of pressed garlic
• a few tablespoons of nama shoyu or tamari
• about a tablespoon of fresh orange juice
• about a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
• about a tablespoon of raw honey or other sweetner
• about a tablespoon of nutritional yeast
• dash of cayenne pepper

Adjust ingredients as needed to taste.  Balance to satisfy your own palate.

Combine ingredients in a large mixing bowl with a whisk.  Toss the kale/collards in this mixture.

Place on Teflex sheets and dehydrate at 100 degrees for about 8-12 hours (or until dry and crisp).

Acknowledge satisfaction and offer gratitude. 

Recipe for Radiance - Super Fruit Pudding

Experience the radiance of life.  There is radiance all around, in everyone and in everything.


Nothing is as good or as bad as it seems, yet, perceptions and judgments of "good" and "bad" can cloud our experiences and cause us to miss out the radiance of life.  Why?...because we worry.


When we worry, it is always about things or people or situations or ideas.  But there is an alternative: we can choose not to worry.  We can let go of the worries, because "worrying" does not change things or people or situations or ideas.  Whether we worry or not, what is, "is".  


When there are truly "no worries", we get to experience the radiance of the world - all around - in people, in places, in things, and in ideas.


Recipe for Radiance - Super Fruit Pudding

Combine the following ingredients in a blender:

• 1 avocado
• 1 banana
• 1 cup of fresh bing cherries (pitted)
• 1 cup of fresh blueberries
• 1 cup of fresh strawberries
• dash of ginger powder
• dash of sea salt

Recipe Notes: Save a few berries or cherries for garnish.  This recipe makes 2 larger servings or 4 smaller ones.  I like using organic fruit because I think it is sweeter and more flavorful.  If necessary, add honey, maple syrup, or agave to sweeten.  Chill for several hours before serving; the "pudding" will set up in the fridge and be more gelatinous. 


This recipe is full of nutrition, fiber, and antioxidants.  The berries are wonderful for reducing inflammation and easing the pain from arthritis and gout.  All of these berries are being touted as the latest "super foods": cherries, for their pain relieving properties; blueberries, for their memory-improving properties; strawberries, for their regulation of blood sugar levels.


Let yourself be free from worries.  
Experience the radiance of life.  
And, if the recipe doesn't turn out just right...no worries.

Recipe for Possibility - Blueberry "Cheesecake" (raw vegan style)

It is easy to look back into the past and see what has happened.  Although we can see what we have done and imagine what we might have done differently, what is done is done.  The past cannot be changed.  Looking into the past, thinking of all we could change, thinking of what we could improve, thinking of how we might rewrite history, does very little for us, for in the past we have no possibility.


The best we can hope to do is take the lessons from the past and create something new and different in the future.  Sometimes looking into the future feels daunting, more challenging, perhaps even intimidating.  We do not yet know what the future holds and sometimes we imagine the future may be anything but bright and promising, leaving us unfulfilled.  Yet, to see the future as a blank canvas on which we can paint whatever our heart desires is such a blessing.


However, what really matters is being present to the moment we are experiencing right now.  Having concerns about what has passed or about what is yet to come, may cause anxiety, unhappiness, or other undesirable emotions.  It is a waste of time, a waste of life, to spend too much time anywhere but in the present.  


From the past, we can learn.  From the present, we can imagine our vision for the future.  We have the gift of possibility.


This is why there are so many teachings that encourage us to let go of the past.  In the future we have a blessing.  Let the present be where we dwell content and fulfilled, living without regret of what we did or failed to do.  


Sometimes, all we need to do is take a deep breath, bringing us back to the present moment.  This is where we truly have possibility and the ability to create our own reality.

This recipe reminds me of the JELL-O Cheesecakes we used to make when I was a kid, except I think the raw vegan version is so much better!

Recipe for Possibility - Blueberry "Cheesecake" (raw vegan style)

For this recipe you will need 2 PINTS of FRESH BLUEBERRIES.


The Filling - In a Vitamix or high-powered blender, combine these ingredients:

• 1 cup cashews
• 1 avocado
• 1 pint fresh blueberries [RESERVE the 2nd pint for assembly.]
• 1/2 cup fresh pineapple or orange juice (or just enough to blend)*
• agave, raw honey, or maple syrup to taste (about 1 TB)
• pinch of sea salt

The Crust - In a (6+ cup) food processor, combine these ingredients:

• 7-9 dates
• 1 cup walnuts (preferably soaked and dehydrated)
• 1 cup pecans (preferably soaked and dehydrated)

Combine with the "S" blade until the nuts are totally broken down and you have reached a crumbly consistency.  The mixture should just start sticking to the sides of the bowl when it is ready.


Assemble: Press the crust into a 9" pie plate.  Place a layer of fresh blueberries (from the second pint).  Pour in the blueberry "cheesecake" filling.  Cover the top with fresh blueberries.  Garnish with thinly sliced banana rounds.

Tips:
* If no fresh juice is available, use water ( > 1/2 cup) instead and slightly more liquid sweetener.
** If the consistency of the filling is too runny, add 3-4 TB of psyllium husk powder to thicken.  Or, assemble and put the pie in the freezer a few hours before serving.

Blueberries, one of the world's healthiest foods, have excellent nutrition that supports the health of the heart, the eyes, the brain, and the digestive system.  

Finally, a dessert that offers a NEW POSSIBILITY for health and wellness!

Recipe for Summer - Zesty Watermelon

During the heat of summer, it is important to stay cool and hydrated.  In addition to drinking lots of water to quench our thirst, we can eat raw fruits and vegetables that have a high water content such as melons, cucumbers, and tomatoes.  So, as we celebrate summer time and have celebrations with family and friends in the heat of summer, enjoy this variation on one of summer's traditional foods!


Among the world's healthiest foods, watermelon, like tomatoes, contains lycopene, and antioxidant known for its cancer-preventing properties.  Watermelon provides energy not only because it keeps us hydrated but also because it is a great source of B vitamins.  Conditions caused in the body by inflammation, such as asthma and arthritis, may be eliminated by eating certain foods including watermelon and ginger, both included in this recipe.


Food for Thought: According to many philosophies of food combining, melons (watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew) should always be eaten alone or 15-20 minutes prior to the rest of the meal (to assure complete digestion).  For more information, see Raw Food Living and as well as this article on Ayurveda.


Recipe for Summer - Zesty Watermelon

In preparing this easy, simple raw food recipe, consider how many servings you wish to prepare and adjust the portions of the ingredients accordingly.  The recipe below is for a small melon or perhaps half of a medium-size one. 


I've read that when choosing a watermelon, pick one with a large light yellowish spot.  This spot indicates how long the melon has been on the ground ripening.

Whisk together these ingredients:

• raw honey (2 TB)
• ginger powder (between 1/2 tsp and 1 tsp, according to how zesty you want it)
• fresh orange, lemon, or lime juice (2 TB)
• dash of sea salt

Drizzle over fresh watermelon cut into cubes (or carved with a melon-baller).  


Garnish with fresh mint or basil.


Eat and feel refreshed.

Recipe for Friendship - Banana Pudding

Friendship is a special bond between people that surpasses the constraints of time and space and the connection on Facebook.  When we create friendship, we are committing to a relationship of mutual respect, honesty, and trust.  A true friendship is an intimate relationship where those who are connected necessarily share compassion and empathy with each other.  Often a friend is a mirror of ourselves -- what we see in a friend is a reflection of what we see (or want to see) in ourselves.  The love between true friends endures through all obstacles and circumstances.  When friends meet, it seems as if no time has passed and no distance was too far.  I am thankful for all of my friends and I dedicate this recipe to them.


Recipe for Friendship - Banana Pudding


You will need 10-12 ripe bananas for this recipe.  I encourage the use of organic bananas.  Organic bananas taste better, last longer, and are much more environmentally friendly :)


Make the pudding.  Combine these ingredients in a high powered blender (Vita-Mix) until smooth and creamy:

• 5-6 bananas (save the remaining for assembly; see below)
• 1 avocado
• 1/4 cup raw cashews (if possible soaked for 2-4 hours)
• 1/2 cup dates - soaked for a few hours, until soft
• water from soaked dates
• pinch of sea salt
• optional: 1/2 inch vanilla bean

Make the crust.  Combine these ingredients in a food processor (suggested 4+ cup capacity) until crumbly:

• 1 cup raw brazil nuts
• 1 cup raw hazel nuts
• 8-10 dates
• pinch of sea salt

Hint: Start processing the nuts and slowly add in a few dates at a time so that the mixture doesn't get clumpy.


GO BANANAS!  Assembly:  
Start by slicing the remaining 5-6 bananas into "coins" like you would as a topping for breakfast cereal.
In a 9 x 13 dish, combine:

• Layer of crust.
• Layer of pudding.
• Layer of sliced banana coins (about 2 1/2 bananas).
• Layer of crust.
• Layer of pudding.
• Layer of banana coins (about 2 1/2 bananas.
• Thin layer of crust sprinkled on top.

This recipe makes 10 or more servings!  It is very rich.  This is a fantastic recipe to take to your next potluck!


Offer gratitude for all friends, even those who seem far away.  Remember to tell your friends that you appreciate them and that you love them.  Make banana pudding for your friends.  Be sure to share this abundance with them and go bananas!

Recipe for Grounding - Melissa's Moroccan Hummus

This is an earthy recipe for those times when you need to come back to center, when you need to feel more grounded, when you need stability, when you need to feel rooted...

Recipe for Grounding - Melissa’s Moroccan Hummus

Blend in Vita-mix until smooth:

• 1 cup sprouted chickpeas
• 1 cup sprouted lentils
• 1 cup soaked sunflower seeds
• 1 TB almond butter
• 1 TB honey
• ½ cup olive oil
• ½ lemon juiced
• 2 TB hazelnut oil (optional for character and flavor)
• 2 TB garam masala seasoning mix
• 1 TB hot curry powder
• 1 TB cumin
• fresh cilantro
• water to blend

 Serve with flax crackers, celery sticks, or sliced bell peppers.

Recipe for Simplicity - Sunflower Seed Pate

Now is a great time to start eating raw foods as the warm weather of spring melts away the winter chill.  Eating raw foods revitalizes the body and provides energy.  A raw food diet can be cleansing and refreshing.  Yet, certain recipes can also seem overwhelming, complex, and time consuming.  For, if you know anything about raw foods, you know there is a lot of soaking and sprouting and dehydrating involved.  From my experience as a raw foodie, planning a meal 12-24 hours in advance is the best way to create a successful raw foods diet. 

However, for those times when life happens and there has been little time to plan (soak/sprout/dehydrate), it helps to keep it simple and go back to basics.  Also, this recipe is wonderful for anyone just starting out on a raw foods diet.  It is quick, simple, and easy.  And, it allows for many variations and lots of culinary creativity.


Recipe for Simplicity - Sunflower Seed Pate 

BASIC Recipe - Combine the following ingredients in a Food Processor (with the "S" blade):

• 2 cups soaked raw sunflower seeds (ideally soaked for 4-6 hours, but less is okay if there is no time to plan)
• 1/2 lemon juiced
• 1-2 clove garlic (according to your own taste)
• 2 TB nama shoyu (or substitute gluten-free tamari or Bragg's Liquid Aminos)
• 1/2 TB cumin
• dash of cayenne (or more to taste)

Tasty Additions (add some or all of the following):

• 1/2 bunch of fresh parsley or cilantro
• 1/2 small onion (about 1/4 cup)
• 4+ kale leaves
• 1 small carrot
• 1-2 stalks of celery
• 1/2-1 bell pepper
• 1/4 cup raw tahini

Start with the Basic Recipe then become more creative and adventurous with the Tasty Additions.  Serve with raw vegetables (sliced bell peppers, celery, romaine lettuce leaves), as a nori wrap with sprouts, or on raw dehydrated crackers.  

Enjoy and give thanks for the simple things in life.  
Celebrate eating fresh.  
Let this recipe cleanse, revitalize, and energize you in mind, body, and spirit.

Recipe for Thanksgiving - Chocolate Pecan Pie

Most of us know that thanksgiving is not about a holiday that comes once a year.  Rather it is about a way of being - showing gratitude and being grateful.  When we are authentically grateful (full of gratitude), we start to see that there are so many blessings in our lives, so much for which we can give thanks.  


When we give, there is so much more that we can receive.  It is important to pause and give thanks daily.  By giving thanks for family, friends, good health, and the food that nourishes our bodies, we are acknowledging the blessings we have received each day.  


In that moment, when we pause, recall our blessings, and offer thanksgiving, we are doing something truly divine.  In that moment, we are no longer bound by guilt, blame, shame, and stress; rather we are freed by recognizing that there is something in the world so much greater than our own egocentric selfishness.  To offer thanksgiving really is a selfless act, for it is an act of giving to others and giving to God.

photograph by Jon-Erik Lido

Recipe for Thanksgiving - Chocolate Pecan Pie

The filling - combine in a Vita-Mix or powerful blender:

• 1 1/4 large avocados (or 1 1/2 - 2 small ones)
• 2-3 TB raw honey (or agave or grade B maple syrup) - more/less to taste
• 1/2 cup soaked raisins (reserve the water)
• 4-5 soaked dates (reserve the water)
• 2 cups raw pecans (preferably soaked for 8-12 hours)
• 2/3 cup raw chocolate powder
• pinch of sea salt
• optional: 1/8 inch of vanilla bean
• additional filtered water if needed for blending

The crust - combine in a food processor until a crumbly consistency has been reached:

• 1 cup raw pecans (preferably soaked and dehydrated)
• 1 cup raw walnuts (preferably soaked and dehydrated)
• 7-8 dates
• pinch of sea salt
• optional: 3 TB (or more) raw cacao nibs 

Final step: Press the crust into a pie plate then pour in the filling.  Garnish with pecans.

This is a dessert that is truly good for you.  Pecans are a wonderful source of vitamin E and antioxidants.  Read more about their nutritional value by clicking here.  Both chocolate and pecans are foods that nourish the cardiovascular system and may assist in lowering cholesterol and blood pressure. 


In preparing and eating this delicious dessert, consider your blessings and offer thanksgiving.  Share this divine treat with your family and friends.  When we give, there is so much more for us to receive.


What to do with the leftover avocado?  If you decide to store it for later, keep in the pit and enclose it in the skin, then wrap with plastic wrap.  I suggest using it to make a salsa, guacamole, or salad.  Perhaps use it to make a smoothie with fresh orange juice, banana, and berries.