Tag: healthy

Healthier For The Holidays

Traditionally a time of socially acceptable gluttony and excess, holiday indulgences are an important part of the season, within reason. There’s room for plenty of treats while still making space for some smarter choices. It’s been my distinct pleasure to create some more wholesome options for the winter festivities as part of my partnership with Kim Murphy at Simply Plant Based Kitchen.

Tasked with creating weekly recipes using only whole foods that are oil-free, refined sugar-free, and low-sodium, it’s been an inspiring undertaking that’s helped me eat better at the same time. Proof positive that you can have all the flavors you crave without the junk, I’m thrilled to share some of the best seasonal dishes to help facilitate a healthier, happier holiday season for all.

Cranberry Cheese Ball

Kick off your holiday party with a show-stopping starter! In this twist on the southern staple, creamy cashew cheese meets fresh cranberries simmered in orange juice, turning the soft spread a jolly pink color. Crusted with crisp pistachios and pomegranate arils, each bite is a little bit sweet, tart, and richly savory. It’ll be hard to leave room for the main meal when the appetizer is this compelling!

Gingered Butternut Squash Soup

Warming from the inside out, a steaming bowlful of butternut soup is just what the doctor ordered, even when you’re feeling perfectly well. Roasting the squash caramelizes the natural sugars, bringing out a greater depth of flavor while enhancing the velvety texture once blended. If you’re spice-sensitive, you might want to start with half as much ginger to be safe; you can always add more to taste.

Shredded Brussels Sprouts Salad

Everyone loves roasted Brussels sprouts, but have you tried eating them raw? Finely shaved into gossamer shreds, they form the crisp hearty foundation of this ode to autumn’s bounty. Combining juicy pears, crunchy toasted pecans, and bursts of tart pomegranate arils, a hint of orange zest adds a refreshing citrus note, making this salad a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy.

Baked Latkes

Meet the healthiest, tastiest latkes ever! Although the miracle of the Hanukkah lights is all about oil, it’s entirely possible to celebrate without a single drop. Baked and not fried, these latkes are crispy around the edges and soft in the center, almost like little hash brown pancakes. Made with zero grease and no mess in the oven, they’re a modern miracle in and of themselves.

Cranberry Banana Bread

Banana bread never goes out of season, a perennial favorite that’s infinitely adaptable. Fresh cranberries dress up this humble loaf in autumn’s finest fashion, adding tart flavor to contrast the moist, maple-sweetened crumb. Sparkling with warm cinnamon and ginger, each slice is a cozy reminder of fall, perfect for enjoying with a cup of tea or sharing with loved ones during those chilly afternoons.

Pumpkin Bread Pudding

Warm, creamy, and comforting, bread pudding is the perfect dessert to ward off those autumn chills while celebrating the season’s bounty. Infused with the goodness of pumpkin and sweetened entirely with dates, this version is as satisfying as it is soothing. Consider this your invitation to customize your bread pudding to better suit your personal tastes; apple pie spices or chai spices would be delightful to swap in for this classic combo, and a handful of chocolate chips or dried fruit would certainly be welcome, too.

Peppermint Crunch Bark

Homemade peppermint bark is one of the best crowd-pleasing sweets, crafts to make with kids, and last-minute gifts, all wrapped up in one bite-sized package. All you need is chocolate and peppermint extract to make it happen! Give your bark more bite this year by incorporating crispy rice cereal and cacao nibs, creating a texture that’s both lighter and more satisfying. It’s an easy and fun treat that everyone will love!

Hannah (BitterSweet)4 Comments

Juicer Couture

A gift doesn’t need to be given to be received.

That’s what I tell myself when I’m staring down my wish list, debating how much might be reasonable to receive in a given calendar year. There must be special allowances, however, for a gift that’s practical, thoughtful, and genuinely useful, right? That defines the Hurom H310 Easy Clean Slow Juicer in all respects. I can confidently say it’s a pragmatic present you would only regret not treating yourself on.

I’ve been utterly hooked on juicing from the moment I plugged in my H400 by Hurom and suddenly can’t imagine life without such a luxury. Starting the day with a glass of fresh juice is better than any wake up call, rivaling the potency of a trusty espresso shot at times. Now, with this practical indulgence, I never need to deny myself. Compact, lightweight, and highly packable, this little juicer has completely changed the game. You can juice anywhere and everywhere—even while camping out in the wild, if you bring a power source. Limited luggage space makes the notion of putting a whole masticating juicer in a carry-on bag sound downright comical, but this machine always makes the cut.

Have Juice, Will Travel

The defining characteristic of the H310 Easy Clean that sets it apart from everything else on the market is how portable it is. Conventional juicers are hulking, heavy contraptions you could only park on your kitchen counter and leave there, taking up valuable real estate. This one seems to defy the laws of physics with a diameter of just 4 inches and weight of less than 8 pounds. Despite that, it’s still remarkably spacious, capable of accommodating a whole apple or orange with ease, stems, pits, and all.

I’m not one to compromise on quality, which is why the results are so spectacular. Like all Hurom juicers, the low-speed auger maximizes juice extraction from both fruits and vegetables, leaving behind completely dry pulp. As far as efficiency is concerned, this juicer is no slouch. It’s surprisingly quick to assemble, use, and clean, so rather than dreading the process, it’s a rewarding experience from start to finish.

No Mess, No Hassle

The biggest pain point for me has always been the clean-up. Who wants to spend half their morning scraping pulp out of mesh filters and washing a dozen parts? The H310 completely eliminates that stress. Its Easy Clean design means there are fewer parts to deal with, and the few pieces that do require cleaning come apart and go back together effortlessly. For the first time ever, I don’t feel like I’m cleaning a juicer more than I’m actually using it. That, to me, is worth the price of admission alone.

Besides, there isn’t much to clean up in the first place. This juicer’s low-speed masticating system ensures you’re getting a high yield with minimal pulp. You get nutrient-packed juice with minimal foam that stays fresh longer than the average home-pressed options.

A Juicer for Your Life, Not Just Your Kitchen

The H310 isn’t just eye candy to bejewel your countertop; it’s the kind of appliance that keeps pace with your busy life. Whether you’re heading out on a weekend getaway or just trying to streamline your daily routine, this juicer makes healthy living feel doable, no matter where you are. Once you’ve tasted the fresh juice it creates, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought.

At this point, I’d argue it’s not just a want, but a need, as a simple, thoughtful gift that feels both luxurious and practical. If I could give it to everyone I know, I would, because it really does make life just a little bit better.

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Thanksgiving Wild Card

It’s a shame that most people turn to wild rice only when Thanksgiving rolls around, though with such a strong and legitimate historical association, they should be forgiven. I am also one of those people, forgetting all about this straw-like black aquatic grass until November, then quickly shuffling it into the back of my mental Rolodex until next year. Though it takes the same amount of time and effort as brown rice, something about cooking it feels like an event.

Wild About Wild Rice

In truth, wild rice stuffing (or dressing, depending on your upbringing) is just a seasonal pilaf or salad, served warm. Would it detract from the magic to make it for a 4th of July backyard BBQ, a birthday party potluck, or a random Tuesday in April? Certainly not, and yet, when that bountiful dish of toothsome, nutty whole grains comes out on the fourth Thursday in November, it sets the scene with a final flourish, dotting the i’s and crossing the t’s on a carefully curated menu.

The All-American Whole Grain

Wild rice, a pseudograin that has captured the hearts and palates of many, is deeply intertwined with Indigenous cultures, particularly the Anishinaabe people of the Great Lakes region. Known as “manoomin,” or “good berry,” it thrives in shallow waters, where it has been hand-harvested for over a thousand years, using canoes and cedar sticks to gently knock the grains into waiting vessels. Wild rice is not only a staple food but also a vital part of spiritual practices and community gatherings, symbolizing harmony with nature. With its impressive nutritional profile, rich in protein, fiber, and antioxidants, wild rice has sustained generations. As we gather to give thanks, incorporating this ancient grain not only enriches our meals but also honors the Indigenous traditions that have shaped American foodways.

Spice Up Your Rice

If you only eat wild rice once a year, let’s make it count. Banish bland boxed mixes and spice things up this year. Fresh jalapeño and Thai bird’s eye chili bring the heat, tempered by the sweet citrus flavor of orange juice, juicy red apples, and a touch of maple syrup. Aromatic and herbaceous, it’s bold yet plays well with others, livening up the typical guest list without commanding all the attention. At the very least, it should remind you not to overlook wild rice yet again.

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Hannah (BitterSweet)7 Comments

Get A Cobb On

Salads shouldn’t just be a side dish or an after thought. Down with wilted iceberg lettuce and stale croutons! I’m all about those hefty, fully loaded meal salads that have tons of color, texture, and flavor going on. The classic Cobb is a good example of that, traditionally piled high with meats, cheese, and eggs. On top of my obvious vegan conversions, I wanted to take a more seasonal approach for a new, novel Autumn Cobb Salad.

Vegan Innovations

To start with the vegan adaptations, we can replace traditional proteins with plant-based alternatives that not only complement the dish but enhance it. Instead of crispy bacon, consider using pecans seasoned with a smoky flavor to provide that quintessential crunch. Hard-boiled eggs can be swapped out for hearty, diced potatoes, seasoned with sulfurous kala namak, which lend a satisfying creaminess without sacrificing substance. For the chicken, chickpeas are an excellent choice, adding protein and a nutty flavor that ties the salad together.

Seasonal Swaps

Seasonality is the secret ingredient that can transform an ordinary salad into something truly special. In this fall feature, pomegranate arils take the place of conventional tomatoes, infusing each bite with a burst of sweetness and vibrant color. Instead of the typical scallions or chives, opt for pickled onions. Their tangy crunch elevates the flavor profile and adds depth.

When it comes to greens, we’re turning to shredded collard greens instead of the usual lettuce. This hearty green not only provides a more robust texture but also aligns perfectly with the season’s bounty. Finally, rather than dressing the salad with traditional ranch, a maple-balsamic vinaigrette introduces a balance of sweetness and acidity, capturing the essence of fall in every drop.

Timeless Staples

Even amidst these changes, there are certain staples that remain unassailable. Creamy avocado adds richness to the dish, while a sprinkle of vegan blue cheese, store-bought or homemade, provides that unmistakable funk, rounding out the flavor experience perfectly.

Salad Days Are Here Again

Salads can be so much more than an afterthought. With a little creativity and a focus on seasonal ingredients, they can take center stage as a nourishing, satisfying meal. Say goodbye to the wilted greens of the past and hello to a vibrant, fully loaded salad that you’ll want to dig into all autumn long.

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Hannah (BitterSweet)5 Comments

Terribly Toothsome

Sitting at the dinner table, surrounded by the familiar chatter of family, it’s the start of another ordinary meal. Your plate, piled high with a vibrant green salad, glistens under the soft tungsten light. As you reach for a forkful of crisp lettuce, a sudden jolt of panic shoots through you. Your teeth feel loose, wobbling precariously inside your mouth, as the urge to clench your jaw intensifies. With a sickening crunch, like a bolt out of the blue, your front tooth snaps off, leaving a gaping hole in your fading smile.

Horror washes over you as you examine the broken tooth, its white enamel glistening on the ceramic plate. Your heart races as you realize the nightmare has only just begun. One by one, tooth after tooth tumbles down, leaving a mouthful of jagged stumps in their wake. The once-inviting salad now seems like a grotesque mockery, its vibrant colors marred with the shrapnel of ruined molars and canines.

Desperation grips you as you try to salvage the meal, but every bite is a painful reminder of your crumbling reality. The lettuce sticks to your toothless gums, the dressing drips down your chin, and the once-familiar taste of food is now a bitter, metallic sensation.

The room around you fades into darkness, replaced by a cacophony of screams and the echoing sound of your own teeth clattering to the ground. You are alone in this nightmare, trapped in a world where even the simplest act of eating is a terrifying ordeal.

For anyone wishing to recreate this delightful nightmare for their friends, these “teeth” are easily made using your favorite vegan mozzarella or provolone recipe, set in a realistic human teeth mold. Go forth and terrify.

Hannah (BitterSweet)6 Comments

Adventures In Bread

Can something without yeast or flour really be called bread? Though it sounds like a trick question, the answer is unequivocally yes. The Life-Changing Loaf of Bread by Sarah Britton lived up to its name for fervent fans while redefining what bread could be. Popularized about 10 years ago by one Josey Baker under the moniker of “Adventure Bread,” it’s little more than a cohesive slab of nuts, seeds, and oats. The ingredients read more like granola than bread, but I’m getting ahead of myself here.

Time-Honored Traditions

Adventure Bread is nothing new. Nutrient-rich bread crafted in this same spirit has been a staple in many cultures for centuries. Providing a long-lasting source of energy and nutrition, they were the lifeline for hardworking folks from all walks of life. One notable example is the traditional German Vollkornbrot, a whole grain rye bread that is dense and packed with seeds. Similarly, Scandinavian countries have their own versions of dense, seed-filled breads, such as rugbrød in Denmark. These breads were not only nutritious but also had a long shelf life, making them ideal for long journeys and outdoor activities.

No Gluten, No Problem

Modern dietary preferences are well-suited to such a hearty loaf, being naturally gluten-free and vegan. The secret ingredient here is psyllium husks, which naturally bind these otherwise disparate elements into a dense, sliceable, and toothsome treat. Found in the supplement aisle, they’re wildly high in fiber and create a thick gel when mixed with water, much like the flax and chia seeds also found in this mix. Together, they create the glue that transforms assorted pantry staples into a unified, golden brown bread.

World Bread Day 2024

In honor of the 19th annual World Bread Day, I wanted to embark on my own baking adventure and make this lovable loaf even easier. For anyone still nervous about trying their hand at homemade bread, this is the foolproof starter recipe for you. There’s no kneading, no rising, no resting, and only five ingredients (or seven, if you count water and salt). Instead of measuring out separate nuts, seeds, fruits, and oats, just grab a box of your favorite muesli and you’re halfway done.

Venture Forth and Eat Well

For best results, let your loaf cool completely before slicing thinly. As the name would imply, it’s an ideal snack to pack for your next adventure, whether you go hiking, traveling, or just head-first into a long day at work. More convenient than a bowl of cereal, healthier than a pastry, and far easier than homemade sourdough, everyone can join in on this small side quest. Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten baking path.

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Hannah (BitterSweet)8 Comments