tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29147148482280563462024-02-19T14:55:59.072-08:00for the love of veganFollow me as I create simple and delicious vegan food and dessertsDanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09799071249556868093noreply@blogger.comBlogger37125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2914714848228056346.post-30538635324175802512010-03-01T14:57:00.000-08:002010-03-08T22:50:11.049-08:00I love me some vegan cookies<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4dfnEFJObNGLL30IbwNyTRgz7Nm3WX90iwrRN6KEFbGbNg_jlfuVS8njRJhdqWlvHfSekFPULSZizyTklkHsyFxd7arNbaHNw6NYQZ2zwrVAliCkccFUFb8hSlx68ExykeKMOx5WpfdY/s1600-h/NANAS.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 280px; height: 280px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4dfnEFJObNGLL30IbwNyTRgz7Nm3WX90iwrRN6KEFbGbNg_jlfuVS8njRJhdqWlvHfSekFPULSZizyTklkHsyFxd7arNbaHNw6NYQZ2zwrVAliCkccFUFb8hSlx68ExykeKMOx5WpfdY/s320/NANAS.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443807936298195186" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimbwg2aaiKE2l6zYUaK_4m4ECRlwUrubLjk4zWSlBlJYB9-lo7DqBWRlylkSNxUFI2UwPZfDSkKIas9IwGfZK5qNWXreutCvO6HZKoFeNT93ohosrwMT5CDV_mzfOvFXcyX8-hJy7tC58/s1600-h/lemon+poppy.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimbwg2aaiKE2l6zYUaK_4m4ECRlwUrubLjk4zWSlBlJYB9-lo7DqBWRlylkSNxUFI2UwPZfDSkKIas9IwGfZK5qNWXreutCvO6HZKoFeNT93ohosrwMT5CDV_mzfOvFXcyX8-hJy7tC58/s320/lemon+poppy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443807821774661042" /></a><br />Being a patisserie student, I know my way around the kitchen, and would prefer to bake my own vegan cookies, all the time. But I'm busy, and lazy. More lazy than busy, if that's possible. So it's good to know that there are two kick ass companies out there offering cookies for us vegans!<br />Alternative Baking Co and Nana's are two of my favorite companies that offer vegan cookies. I both proud and embarrassed to say I've tried every single flavor of both nana's and ABC's, and they are all simply delicious. I used to literally buy cases of nana's, to ensure I'd never run out. I mean, what if I got a craving in the middle of the night and all health food stores were closed? Or what if a natural disaster hit, and all stores were out of stock? Not gonna happen to me, I'll never have to let a vegan cookie craving go hungry. <br /><br />My favorite Alternative Baking CO flavors are Lemon Poppy Seed, and good ol' chocolate chip, but they are all good. Trust me. Pop one in the microwave while you poor yourself a glass of ice cold soy milk, and you've got yourself one yummy treat. <br /><br />Nana's, my two favorites are peanut butter and oatmeal raisin, but again, they are all delish...except the cranberry and lemon flavors- they taste like perfume, not cool.<br /><br />You cant find these cookies at Whole Foods, most health food stores, and even sometimes in Ralphs and other grocery stores (in the specialty food section, just ask, they are always hidden and hard to find) I'm broke right now, so if someone could please drop a case of these lovelies outside my door, that would be great!Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09799071249556868093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2914714848228056346.post-20277500983926291722010-02-27T11:58:00.000-08:002010-02-27T12:27:16.005-08:00Gardein<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh13D6Ac_xC_geFCqbMN7UWSn4W7UWJc9sIXzOhw3vBQyUJNrjcBVzwM85ILuGMdAlugGMYRKcXwJdpgYSK6CVYEoGfq8a9NF9SMZ8e7M0V3pSKDPN1Qlz7Ml4sRTTiurCjNaCptz00P-8/s1600-h/chicken+scallopini.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 270px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh13D6Ac_xC_geFCqbMN7UWSn4W7UWJc9sIXzOhw3vBQyUJNrjcBVzwM85ILuGMdAlugGMYRKcXwJdpgYSK6CVYEoGfq8a9NF9SMZ8e7M0V3pSKDPN1Qlz7Ml4sRTTiurCjNaCptz00P-8/s320/chicken+scallopini.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443016399355919474" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQrkv7tbcQbnactZ8ww2bTaeffR2ZIIEH7CteO9tzyhf0T6grGX1kA9O7oJwxwf6VhZwzmoL2t8zhNRuj8tbCF8Zz02K35k54TuilARfVLR1yZBCwR2Pn3sEseQV0ynp2S_wwLB5sZSoU/s1600-h/gardein+chicken+strips.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 270px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQrkv7tbcQbnactZ8ww2bTaeffR2ZIIEH7CteO9tzyhf0T6grGX1kA9O7oJwxwf6VhZwzmoL2t8zhNRuj8tbCF8Zz02K35k54TuilARfVLR1yZBCwR2Pn3sEseQV0ynp2S_wwLB5sZSoU/s320/gardein+chicken+strips.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443016240402218386" /></a><br />Gardein, I love you! *tears* Vegan Chef Tal Ronnen helped create this AMAZING product...who...ahem, I was able to meet :-) I should seriously be their spokesperson, I'm passionate about this product on a borderline unhealthy level.<br /><br />There are many different products available now (whole foods, or even Ralphs, most grocery stores now), but I'd have to say my two favorite are the soy chicken strips and the scallopini. The chicken strips bring me back to my childhood of feasting on mystery nuggets and strips...I'm sure glad I didn't know then what I know now... I enjoy these much more knowing exactly what's in them, no chicken! These are great served with sweet potato fries (brand below available at trader joes, but ralphs and all other grocery stores carry them too) and a honey mustard dip. <br /><br />The scallopini is great, because it can be used in recipes that call for chicken breast. You treat it and cook it just like regular chicken. You can make a faux chicken parm by breading and frying the scallopini, topping it with soy mozzerella, and serving pasta and marinara sauce. There's also a great recipe for pine nut crusted scallopini in Tal Ronnen's Conscious Cook Cookbook. <br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMvxHOw0MLnw-sTWnecEusLmReabxk-M3H6WHNzoHRHe4Kc36J0Xsxa38T-oQP1P1NKeADRLU5aG-uO5WqGhYgQ7_1fj3RTcPuh65h_t_KLX3frsBXWiRQE4ur0Us8Mdp0Pd8wjsYEL-Y/s1600-h/SWEETFRIES.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 234px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMvxHOw0MLnw-sTWnecEusLmReabxk-M3H6WHNzoHRHe4Kc36J0Xsxa38T-oQP1P1NKeADRLU5aG-uO5WqGhYgQ7_1fj3RTcPuh65h_t_KLX3frsBXWiRQE4ur0Us8Mdp0Pd8wjsYEL-Y/s320/SWEETFRIES.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443018476256571426" /></a>Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09799071249556868093noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2914714848228056346.post-14615162617889594242010-02-27T11:43:00.000-08:002010-02-27T11:58:02.445-08:00Falafel<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9y6DE2_yuBq-StiNVmbGxJntGnXQRJur4vsq2Ts9lzNRQTg3s0XSKr0QeJr2CyeYCp8h0k-rq3xlJvcC0VVt6pSIA77sZy3ppvlOmpUs1zBL7NNFUM_8cUbwtNtUpeIs2ZLMWtLmotJQ/s1600-h/march2010+008.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9y6DE2_yuBq-StiNVmbGxJntGnXQRJur4vsq2Ts9lzNRQTg3s0XSKr0QeJr2CyeYCp8h0k-rq3xlJvcC0VVt6pSIA77sZy3ppvlOmpUs1zBL7NNFUM_8cUbwtNtUpeIs2ZLMWtLmotJQ/s320/march2010+008.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443014722195691762" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIPxDPcH8zKmO7CLAb3DhyvSN8sTgi6YglRjr60Z-pkHVPqWfQPyHoVEdP9hHOXIpTxE9-iX2skjPc5t4MEd9m72RwKyFswq4jcT_WhD-qjo2e_2PEUrfzPMT3Ncf5AZ-pId0s-ipcWVg/s1600-h/FALAFEL.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 280px; height: 280px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIPxDPcH8zKmO7CLAb3DhyvSN8sTgi6YglRjr60Z-pkHVPqWfQPyHoVEdP9hHOXIpTxE9-iX2skjPc5t4MEd9m72RwKyFswq4jcT_WhD-qjo2e_2PEUrfzPMT3Ncf5AZ-pId0s-ipcWVg/s320/FALAFEL.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443013189624172482" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;"><br />Fantastic World Foods</span> is an awesome brand of mixes and seasonings (available at whole foods). Me being a lazy vegan, they're my new best friends. For lunch yesterday I made falafel from their dried mix (just add water according to the directions on box). Attempting to be a little healthy, I baked them. I will admit my taste buds missed the familiar crunchy fried taste that is associated with falafel, but baking it (or broiling) is so much healthier. You can definitely fry them, in vegetable oil if you're feeling up to it. I know myself all too well, and was afraid I'd set fire to the kitchen (at work), and that would be bad...Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09799071249556868093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2914714848228056346.post-37550670116541429362010-02-25T09:33:00.000-08:002010-02-25T09:41:25.505-08:00Salted Chocolate Cookies<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk0VGGWj2Ym1_L-PtdSLFQTdqKMk1SUNH-GctntVV-J62pADxyOxK_ABZXagYburxoK6BUUDdCsyIElUXlUI1ULelZn9lzGkN6Vq61CKNblPorghImBFeUExYh2toIQeed5N0pUJX90xU/s1600-h/march2010+012.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk0VGGWj2Ym1_L-PtdSLFQTdqKMk1SUNH-GctntVV-J62pADxyOxK_ABZXagYburxoK6BUUDdCsyIElUXlUI1ULelZn9lzGkN6Vq61CKNblPorghImBFeUExYh2toIQeed5N0pUJX90xU/s320/march2010+012.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5442237533772497074" /></a><br />Salt and sugar, a wonderful combo. Have you ever had a salted caramel or salted chocolate ice cream? It's delicious, I had some from scoops (they offer 4 rotating vegan flavors) and it was delicious, and inspired this cookie recipe. Don't worry, they aren't incredibly salty! It's just that extra little kick of salt that really brings out the flavors, and tastes delicious.<br /><br />To Make:<br /> 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour <br /> 1/4 cup cocoa powder<br /> 1/2 cup vegan margarine (earth balance is best)<br /> 1/2 cup granulated sugar sugar<br /> 1/4 cup molasses<br /> 1 tsp baking soda<br /> 2 tsp salt<br /> 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)<br /><br />Cream "butter" and sugar, add molasses. Sift dry ingredients and combine with the wet ingredients. Let dough chill in the fridge 15 mins, then form and bake. Make sure to take these out of the oven when they are still very soft, don't worry, they set up when they cool.Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09799071249556868093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2914714848228056346.post-44648943217151332482010-02-20T01:17:00.000-08:002010-02-20T13:41:09.238-08:00Fococcia, French Bread, and petit Chou-fleur<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCOvcAHWMlO-tXVvjwD5zc7CKl-lYHRddp7bI_LaauZ8qlFK7Srdox-1SMqOVTEbK6jCKDQXB98JoYKD_nZTDJsPgjrOOxVXkwgwBrJrwgdWZ6JBb6GdKoGabngGIjvS98qYhB3pwB2qc/s1600-h/thisone.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCOvcAHWMlO-tXVvjwD5zc7CKl-lYHRddp7bI_LaauZ8qlFK7Srdox-1SMqOVTEbK6jCKDQXB98JoYKD_nZTDJsPgjrOOxVXkwgwBrJrwgdWZ6JBb6GdKoGabngGIjvS98qYhB3pwB2qc/s320/thisone.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440259524641281314" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnE4rgA0iN7-mt4K-y6E1vUOcf31xRyjoqJ6HPijLI10jR8oVd62VeKVHliNrk9kYMR1Ut0HiDTIhNS1xf74zt9XqvDiaaRgnIMqwZ7n-6bRXKe9vadcHFwcBLnlEYkCKqp0VS5UE4Fcw/s1600-h/frenchbread+065.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnE4rgA0iN7-mt4K-y6E1vUOcf31xRyjoqJ6HPijLI10jR8oVd62VeKVHliNrk9kYMR1Ut0HiDTIhNS1xf74zt9XqvDiaaRgnIMqwZ7n-6bRXKe9vadcHFwcBLnlEYkCKqp0VS5UE4Fcw/s320/frenchbread+065.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440259239836736146" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGis3OY6edBDeBefYpCVEZCwNDh7X17BqeV9NsOCO6VszEoKf-NgP872GNNqK316UJfVuoTHDar52B6HaTCZA9AOaaA6wH5-9kL0UeuPijebciFR0LBsLFuCec_Bil3kHlZ1Kw5olWp2k/s1600-h/thisone2.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGis3OY6edBDeBefYpCVEZCwNDh7X17BqeV9NsOCO6VszEoKf-NgP872GNNqK316UJfVuoTHDar52B6HaTCZA9AOaaA6wH5-9kL0UeuPijebciFR0LBsLFuCec_Bil3kHlZ1Kw5olWp2k/s320/thisone2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5440258994252260210" /></a><br />Petit Chou Fleur, what could be better? An endearing term for a loved one in france; a delicious raw or cooked veggie in the states, cauliflower is delicious, whatever you call it. <br />A few days ago I took advantage of the fully equipped kitchen at work and made a cauliflower casserole. <br /><br />Boil (chopped and washed) cauliflower until tender. Drain, and stir in tomato sauce (there are tons of vegan varieties, I like the plain brands that don't have any added sugar. Why get your sugar from your tomato sauce? Lets save that sugar for yummy vegan brownies :) <br />Back to the recipe: add tomato sauce, vegan meatballs (I love the brand sold at trader joes, I add one serving, which is 6 small, but I'm a hungry girl!) fresh basil (about a tablespoon chopped), pinch of salt to taste, pepper, 1 tbs chopped onion, 1 tsp olive oil, pinch of chili flakes, stir, and transfer to a baking dish. Cook in oven until bubbly and slightly crisp on top. Call me crazy, but this dish is so delicious, and really healthy! <br /><br />Also, here is some foccacia and french bread I made in school the other day, it's vegan! I love the french bread with smart balance "butter" and the foccocia turned into a beautiful panini (to come later when I have the time...). I'm loving the bread class I'm currently in at school...I cant take my aggression out kneading and punching my dough, and create (almost exclusively) vegan friendly yummy vegan bread, even pitas, begging to be smothered in roasted pepper hummus! <br /><br />Peace y'all, I'm going to enjoy my wine, and my only evening off from work, and the craziness school. Bon Nuit.Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09799071249556868093noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2914714848228056346.post-20476441900985823072010-02-05T16:38:00.000-08:002010-02-05T16:42:54.007-08:00Vegan Peanut Butter Chocolate Cheesecake<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTbZ8mlhCWMsnUx7qlPaS6VFlF2PUei-TTN4GmQ5mtGBt28H50i4_N-AAgVtpisEPLx9odroZEzyAU_1-9AzukBNbylnR0Lif8jMKnbUXVmPQniJOrcR5i2dkv7hR2yTFkCIE1SmNT2IE/s1600-h/thisone.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTbZ8mlhCWMsnUx7qlPaS6VFlF2PUei-TTN4GmQ5mtGBt28H50i4_N-AAgVtpisEPLx9odroZEzyAU_1-9AzukBNbylnR0Lif8jMKnbUXVmPQniJOrcR5i2dkv7hR2yTFkCIE1SmNT2IE/s320/thisone.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434923764447362994" /></a><br /><br />Recipe coming soon, I'm still writing it up! It turned out great, and was delicious, as you can tell from the missing slice!Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09799071249556868093noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2914714848228056346.post-85470739801479934962010-02-03T09:32:00.000-08:002010-02-03T09:41:04.795-08:00Tofu Eggz nom nom nom<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGc7l-BCP5ut3nnh0eLTS0_a0HJrDNulCmkN4CpEiUTBwJdw_gam0p6pYxctE7PWIRuN96_v854kq6T2xHefVXZu8ffC0xbnETisiWyX8EJ2zP4oom7Wf7OvstYvv5RGBjsbOPFLO9818/s1600-h/feb2010+106.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGc7l-BCP5ut3nnh0eLTS0_a0HJrDNulCmkN4CpEiUTBwJdw_gam0p6pYxctE7PWIRuN96_v854kq6T2xHefVXZu8ffC0xbnETisiWyX8EJ2zP4oom7Wf7OvstYvv5RGBjsbOPFLO9818/s320/feb2010+106.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434073600747393330" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht7TwzMD1QCQQHDZe3I-t39dQMvc3-y6zGs7kvcNIpxieQDOJVCK4hUrxzm9BUUlTaXQF8OpZ6A9OGRGlPXaaj4EanV7xiixm56OqDvPIjvNjjnPWOkJpsbuJjs_GGLE3hqfNat6UGEO4/s1600-h/feb2010+117.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht7TwzMD1QCQQHDZe3I-t39dQMvc3-y6zGs7kvcNIpxieQDOJVCK4hUrxzm9BUUlTaXQF8OpZ6A9OGRGlPXaaj4EanV7xiixm56OqDvPIjvNjjnPWOkJpsbuJjs_GGLE3hqfNat6UGEO4/s320/feb2010+117.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5434073389444914642" /></a><br />I have yet another favorite meal. I've been experimenting with tofu lately...basically learning to cook with it for the first time (which is sad seeing as I've been vegetarian for 8 years and vegan for 1). <br /><br />Whole foods has an amazing spice created specifically to mash into tofu to flavor it for "eggz". Listen to me: it is flippin' amazing!! It's called "Fantastic World Foods Tofu Scrambler"<br /><br />Simply mash 1 tbs or so into your tofu, cook in a skillet (in smart balance, mmm!) add desired ingredients. I threw in some soy pepperoni, soy cheese, and served it with a toasted rice flour tortilla (trader joes, where else?). Delicious!<br /><br />Oh, and some banana bread I made at work. Turned out fantastic.Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09799071249556868093noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2914714848228056346.post-74401148021057516122010-01-29T12:48:00.001-08:002010-01-30T21:31:36.108-08:00Fresh Fruit Tart (from class)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHAAzCIj7CrhwA8rRKCf3JhxvGdolA0WkO_iq2wdkxPJ-sKTLNmmjCkHZdW26GptLtIqA04WSR6RfnuRxUpPJGxS_WRzeiDSVlrtCPDq84XVG18FZJVRKXOzSX7jv4LYvhID6YHqxUVuM/s1600-h/thisone.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHAAzCIj7CrhwA8rRKCf3JhxvGdolA0WkO_iq2wdkxPJ-sKTLNmmjCkHZdW26GptLtIqA04WSR6RfnuRxUpPJGxS_WRzeiDSVlrtCPDq84XVG18FZJVRKXOzSX7jv4LYvhID6YHqxUVuM/s320/thisone.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5432267746887563506" /></a><br />As some of you might know, I'm currently attending Le Cordon Bleu, in hopes to specialize in vegan pastries and desserts. <br /><br />Yesterday in class we made a Fresh Fruit Tart (with Pate Sucre pastry dough). I love fruit tarts because they are so colorful and happy looking. <br />I didn't scramble my egg yolks as I added them to the scalded milk, whew! I was so afraid that the mixture would quickly turn into SCRAMBLED EGGS, <span style="font-style:italic;">pas bon!<br /></span><br />My french instructor said that "ze dough on ze tart is a little bit thick...and on thiz part..." but I don't care, I'm so proud of how it turned out! :)Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09799071249556868093noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2914714848228056346.post-58257091027064578662010-01-29T12:43:00.002-08:002010-01-29T12:47:46.159-08:00Grilled Tofu and Kale<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgslikVDqYau7l6badvg_Ow23ZH1YfAnP_03YMrumGzQ2PDMdFyzXtTSUVAQLQ3bVOrDQPOlrdhekBKrQ_aR4vOr-htkXSDKtZwPqTkWELy5CM_wqrgWSBu95gggm4PEtx-i25X5mR17ic/s1600-h/strawberrytart+082.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgslikVDqYau7l6badvg_Ow23ZH1YfAnP_03YMrumGzQ2PDMdFyzXtTSUVAQLQ3bVOrDQPOlrdhekBKrQ_aR4vOr-htkXSDKtZwPqTkWELy5CM_wqrgWSBu95gggm4PEtx-i25X5mR17ic/s320/strawberrytart+082.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5432265757891681090" /></a><br /><br />The family I nanny for has the most beautiful garden, and it's huge! You can find anything you're looking for by simply walking around the property. Lunch yesterday was Grilled Tofu with a side of sauteed kale and other mixed veggies. I washed my healthy lunch down with a large glass of fresh squeezed lemonade. Lemons you pick yourself taste better, you know :)Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09799071249556868093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2914714848228056346.post-11685871224300911272010-01-22T11:07:00.000-08:002010-01-30T21:32:31.318-08:00Coconut Cake<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE1V-7Qszn2rKD9177i_tsjO3nxZMHpH4KDF3cPRsKtHLBT8j9inpqMZRG9xb2-jdxdb3MTgtesR4m8UluaWW_HrV-DzGCnl4a-a9IMNb37Z478n0sJSinaqQzhggnP6vCk2YgdsLReh0/s1600-h/lllll+083.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE1V-7Qszn2rKD9177i_tsjO3nxZMHpH4KDF3cPRsKtHLBT8j9inpqMZRG9xb2-jdxdb3MTgtesR4m8UluaWW_HrV-DzGCnl4a-a9IMNb37Z478n0sJSinaqQzhggnP6vCk2YgdsLReh0/s320/lllll+083.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5429647209388598562" /></a><br />For the longest time, even before becoming vegan, I've had the hugest craving for coconut cake. Coconut cake is very sweet and high calorie, so I tried to avoid it. I tried and tried to ignore it, I really did, but some cravings need to be indulged before they can be put to rest!<br />Sometimes, a girl just wants cake. So the other day, I set off to create a yummy, moist, deliciously vegan, oh so sweet coconut cake. <br /><br />Recipe For The Coconut Cake:<br /><br />***Dry Ingredients:***<br />1 1/2 cup unbleached flour <br />1 cup sugar<br />1 teaspoon baking soda<br />1/2 teaspoon salt<br />***Wet Ingredients:***<br />1 cup coconut milk (canned, every grocery store sells it, usually in the asian foods section)<br />1/4 cup vegetable oil<br />1 teaspoon pure vanilla<br /><br />Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease an 8 or 9 inch baking dish. In a mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, mix wet ingredients together. Add wet ingredients to the dry and mix with a fork whisk until well combined. Pour the batter into the pan and bake for about 30 minutes (or until a fork poked in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on this, I checked it often, and mine only took about 25 mins to bake). <br />You can double the recipe to make a beautiful layer cake. I didn't this time, but if you feel up to the task, go for it! Nothing is more enticing than a giant layer cake covered in fluffy coconut.<br /><br />For The Frosting:<br />2 cups powdered sugar<br />1 cup margarine<br />1/4 cup coconut milk<br /><br />Also, set aside 1 c. coconut, flaked or shreds, whatever your preference is. <br /><br />Whisk or blend together all ingredients until icing is smooth and creamy, adding more powdered sugar or liquid as needed. <br /><br />After the cake has COMPLETELY cooled (don't jump the gun and attempt to ice it before it's cooled, I've done this before and it turns into a mushy mess, trust me...) frost it with the coconut frosting, followed by sprinkling the coconut shreds on tops and pressing it against the sides of the cake. I took little handfuls and "threw" it against the sides, making it stick. You want the entire cake covered.<br /><br />And then the best part, enjoy!Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09799071249556868093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2914714848228056346.post-80928998699806519402010-01-10T22:56:00.000-08:002010-01-10T23:01:17.532-08:00Vegan Cookie Dough?!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.collegevegan.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/pd_coconut_milk_cookiedough-480x265.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 480px; height: 265px;" src="http://www.collegevegan.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/pd_coconut_milk_cookiedough-480x265.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />Purely Decadent Coconut Milk Ice Cream<br /><br />I don't have a lot to say about this product other than... OMG Foodgasm. The. Best. Ever. I no longer how to deprive myself of my long lost love: cookie dough ice cream. The coconut milk is creamy, sweet, and delicious. If you haven't tried this brand of vegan ice creams yet (many are gluten free as well), you simply must asap.<br /><br />Now, if you don't mind, I me and my cookie dough need to be alone.Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09799071249556868093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2914714848228056346.post-39768317632147979242010-01-10T19:41:00.000-08:002010-01-10T19:52:10.180-08:00A hot meal, finally!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-G9j-wn2Ob52qAekxG5JHgjOfLRxEWDXsVool1FAKqf9A40WgFUkPgu4oyoGa2k36WIp50oWOOOy8x61VgPRF-6Kk9i2N2wyLyGwQeyDZabGYIK1aeDeh4zPmtazQarfymkmApFPtlkc/s1600-h/jan+7+2010+004.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 274px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-G9j-wn2Ob52qAekxG5JHgjOfLRxEWDXsVool1FAKqf9A40WgFUkPgu4oyoGa2k36WIp50oWOOOy8x61VgPRF-6Kk9i2N2wyLyGwQeyDZabGYIK1aeDeh4zPmtazQarfymkmApFPtlkc/s320/jan+7+2010+004.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425325058207116834" /></a><br /><br />I've been so busy all week, finished up my first official week at Le Cordon Bleu. I wasn't expecting so many academic courses to be honest, I thought 'culinary', 'kitchen'. But it's great, I'm a happy girl.<br /><br />I also got a job earlier, which pleases me beyond words. I'll be nannying for twin 18 month old girls. It will be a challenge, with their energetic age, and keeping them occupied with constructive activities, but they are seriously the most adorable and sweet little girls you'll ever meet. Plus, it's 5 mins from my school, which couldn't be more convenient. <br /><br />So, point being, between job hunting, school, boyfriend/family and social obligations, I haven't had time to really cook, at all, lately. So tonight, I made the time for a yummy meal of sweet potatoes, BBQ "chicken" and mixed veg. I always stopped by Barnes and Nobles and rewarded myself with Tal Ronnen's "The Conscious Cook" cookbook. It will come in handy when I go to his cooking demo and book signing this Tuesday *cough ahem* Yay!<br /> I'm feeling stressed and tired, but very blessed. Have a good night all.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCgM3b8A_yxXmEiXwIoL01XnCdWHyjnJ2WFISVLxcc09uh9KC8n9ECEaGYnChpOP4rTqxA8HdcJy6kLqz6ykw-WOKEZFplNHSs5LdjpebDQxuYm4kETsxwlaZ3yJWe_p85knX-fUWiUaI/s1600-h/jan+7+2010+005.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCgM3b8A_yxXmEiXwIoL01XnCdWHyjnJ2WFISVLxcc09uh9KC8n9ECEaGYnChpOP4rTqxA8HdcJy6kLqz6ykw-WOKEZFplNHSs5LdjpebDQxuYm4kETsxwlaZ3yJWe_p85knX-fUWiUaI/s320/jan+7+2010+005.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425324835537986962" /></a>Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09799071249556868093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2914714848228056346.post-23639929367604218552010-01-02T22:06:00.000-08:002010-01-03T10:17:59.667-08:00Culinary Orientation & More Muse<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNYpbDxeo5EwcmA8SmwCl7X7EeFXTG8TnmP1eZu_2J3HXwHQ6iYr4JdsSQPcR0JzytpKLFxG7lBdWm-Ft4IdTrXEsLnHK3g7Xvazx6tU9GIy1TwpaKOaBRmei9XNFfAASzIYuUjVfqkQg/s1600-h/MUSE3+183.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNYpbDxeo5EwcmA8SmwCl7X7EeFXTG8TnmP1eZu_2J3HXwHQ6iYr4JdsSQPcR0JzytpKLFxG7lBdWm-Ft4IdTrXEsLnHK3g7Xvazx6tU9GIy1TwpaKOaBRmei9XNFfAASzIYuUjVfqkQg/s320/MUSE3+183.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422399922065212434" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRWNdLaT-GZAxugSsB8_tQNfjbwqveJgNwCj6YgZDHvSqbY2pT_M8VWR2-7cJjAnTOQ6yjz2hK-6GZaNsJHo2JKMqelF13-VTwFRxbDolMvIcI9MbjNAQqhdeJSJD8Iku6H-Egwjxh0IM/s1600-h/MUSE3+180.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRWNdLaT-GZAxugSsB8_tQNfjbwqveJgNwCj6YgZDHvSqbY2pT_M8VWR2-7cJjAnTOQ6yjz2hK-6GZaNsJHo2JKMqelF13-VTwFRxbDolMvIcI9MbjNAQqhdeJSJD8Iku6H-Egwjxh0IM/s320/MUSE3+180.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422399764956053170" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj37i_bR3roArL8JPtKzjXWGBKahe4-vOQNP_5WhEe-MsrhtWrkV0ASy9Za1LfTnM4ohBILCrNMUBWfehJLtbQIJxqklPsxb5eEoTNWrUEWRqbMOi6ACEuQomsu7ZO-CMrAvSFylZr0i_8/s1600-h/MUSE3+177.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj37i_bR3roArL8JPtKzjXWGBKahe4-vOQNP_5WhEe-MsrhtWrkV0ASy9Za1LfTnM4ohBILCrNMUBWfehJLtbQIJxqklPsxb5eEoTNWrUEWRqbMOi6ACEuQomsu7ZO-CMrAvSFylZr0i_8/s320/MUSE3+177.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422399587733428338" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />All morning and afternoon today was spent at my orientation at Le Cordon Bleu. It was both exciting and overwhelming! So much information, so many rules and guidelines to remember. I felt like I was joining the army. Wrinkled uniform? Kicked out of class. Forget your name tag? Don't bother coming. But I understand, they have to have order and professionalism, and I don't mind at all, I just hope I don't forget some crucial item. <br /><br />Then we were hearded in groups all over the building, picked up info, schedules, maps (there are several locations in the area we will be taking classes from) listened to someone speak (explaining how the student counsel worked, where you can get parking permits, etc) then we were marched to the next room, financial aid. Any questions? Of course hands shot up, including mine. <br />Then it was the library. The largest library of food references and cookbooks (this includes tons of how to DVD's), aside from the one in Congress. I'm very excited to go wild there, but you can only check out 5 at a time :(<br /><br />Then it was time to pick up our uniforms and all supplies. By the time I exited the building I could no longer carry everything on my own, thankfully a very nice man helped me to my car. I think he is one of my instructors, actually. He was very nice, answered several questions (of which I have a million more!). So let's see, 5 sets of uniforms, shoes, caps, kneckerchiefs, huge HEAVY knife set, 2 bags of books, huge bag of utensils, papers flying everywhere. Sweating like a pig. It's a good thing they went all out impressing parents and family/friends. First thing when we arrived in the AM they greeted us with coffee, several kinds of muffins, cookies, and every fruit known to man. Obviously they knew that we needed the energy, even if we didn't. I had some grapes. I'm just never hungry in them morning, it's bad I know. I've been told it's the most important meal of the day...<br />As soon as one tray started looking a little stark, magically a chef would somehow sense this, quickly arrive, swooping in with a fresh overflowing tray. I could get used to this.<br /><br /> I'm sure a job will come if I keep looking, gotta stay positive. <br /><br />I'm very, very, very exciting about the internship next January. It wouldn't be easy, but it's quiete possible I could do mine in Paris. Several people went last year, and I already heard several people in my class talking about it. How amazing would that be? And what a great experience! I worked in the kitchen of a language school near Paris a couple years ago, loved it, and vowed to go back someday. <br /><br />Also, a small number of students will be chosen to help cater the academy awards this year, on March 3rd. Hello, me please? That would be awesome. <br /><br />After my 5 hour orientation (yes 5 hours) I needed some serious re-fueling, and I knew just the cafe that would hit the spot: Cafe Muse. <br /><br />If possible, the food was even better than before. I had a soy BBQ chicken wrap with mixed greens and sun dried tomatoes. And look at that heaping pile of sweet potato fries. These are a must. I don't care if you're on a diet, get them. Eat them, and enjoy them. They make awesome leftovers, I'm sitting here right now eating the leftovers. <br /> My sister had the olive pizza, and as you can see from her picture, she's pretty damn happy :) <br /><br />It's time to go pass out now, and <span style="font-style:italic;">SLEEP!</span>Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09799071249556868093noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2914714848228056346.post-66373421741960424432009-12-31T14:57:00.000-08:002010-01-30T21:48:52.972-08:00Cupcakes! Cupcakes! Cupcakes!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif9jfxm0-TBQQdrDqxQESJN13tZlYMc5l5vdTj2aBXDO9PKhj9aCIBELYVK4IA0_DXVBIikeZTfi0zBPEwUOhy0rTY_FcvfOYkU4RU88hBn7ItiXDrZToUqVnL9i_Lm2YEQfo84_Igwmg/s1600-h/cupcakenewyears.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif9jfxm0-TBQQdrDqxQESJN13tZlYMc5l5vdTj2aBXDO9PKhj9aCIBELYVK4IA0_DXVBIikeZTfi0zBPEwUOhy0rTY_FcvfOYkU4RU88hBn7ItiXDrZToUqVnL9i_Lm2YEQfo84_Igwmg/s320/cupcakenewyears.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5432776573064512818" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuAkkjJ62h-jZ8G8Yv9PcDu8wHv_WvOwjeKtYRg9t2byZWgjXuLnt-6E6paQw-iWpwymtIfZyzBoO5COJ4GUMo2AIA5Wjpauf2Eyw66sPVmWk4DZjC2El_tWmP7uxfTx3lxtEM2d4hJz0/s1600-h/dec31!+199.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuAkkjJ62h-jZ8G8Yv9PcDu8wHv_WvOwjeKtYRg9t2byZWgjXuLnt-6E6paQw-iWpwymtIfZyzBoO5COJ4GUMo2AIA5Wjpauf2Eyw66sPVmWk4DZjC2El_tWmP7uxfTx3lxtEM2d4hJz0/s320/dec31!+199.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421541696748022450" /></a><br /><br />Aww, two unsuspecting guys chowing down, little did they know that the treat they were devouring was vegan! tehehe <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwf0Pmr8AL1iVnYoY7IV8O46iScmvrkUraqh3J_rk85t9BrnZxQzbJISE193473qeNWKtnc2gCDbhqsRUQA1_2_926qLn9KDw3GgjFbwuSgotzN8fEeK_mYWflk3ai_ktBXfXEXYFPaTU/s1600-h/dec31!+196.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwf0Pmr8AL1iVnYoY7IV8O46iScmvrkUraqh3J_rk85t9BrnZxQzbJISE193473qeNWKtnc2gCDbhqsRUQA1_2_926qLn9KDw3GgjFbwuSgotzN8fEeK_mYWflk3ai_ktBXfXEXYFPaTU/s320/dec31!+196.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421541633021708930" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC0WshXrQIGBRqHHe6ax2-RUXb2PwC8BtkuspN61j18VhdeUtJ_7Hyu2zvpN794HZC78xZKHCXJbCiCkWJXJX0cCeSMidcTXLhgmkVZQ4H5-TilnVBdnK60J-fvppc5VyCzPi23hsGHI4/s1600-h/dec31!+197.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC0WshXrQIGBRqHHe6ax2-RUXb2PwC8BtkuspN61j18VhdeUtJ_7Hyu2zvpN794HZC78xZKHCXJbCiCkWJXJX0cCeSMidcTXLhgmkVZQ4H5-TilnVBdnK60J-fvppc5VyCzPi23hsGHI4/s320/dec31!+197.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421541534138084482" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr4vhYhao5ZAK7RGNdwDHHuQgWfaEeveDWk-l8lRIS9ojpUIduXffLwamVqxEfvvyvpRPl4P-73k_VFMMx8tf9Zl41IwhquH-9oJufWLVzlIvKx1k0Q-5CgeeeeG1nTCEzNI7T_ckjqDg/s1600-h/dec31!+192.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr4vhYhao5ZAK7RGNdwDHHuQgWfaEeveDWk-l8lRIS9ojpUIduXffLwamVqxEfvvyvpRPl4P-73k_VFMMx8tf9Zl41IwhquH-9oJufWLVzlIvKx1k0Q-5CgeeeeG1nTCEzNI7T_ckjqDg/s320/dec31!+192.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421541436036123234" /></a><br />What is cuter than a perfectly frosted and decorated little cupcake? They are such a happy dessert. <br />I was bored earlier, partly due to the fact that I was being ignored by my boyfriend, as he and his friends played Xbox... and you know what that means: I started baking! This is both a dangerous and rewarding habit. Dangerous because I have one nasty sweet tooth, and rewarding because I love feeding people! I've had no complaints, someone always devours everything, and I'll take these to the New Years Party tonight, along with the brownie bites.<br /><br />I used this basic vegan vanilla cupcake recipe from: http://www.epicurious.com<br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br />1 cup soy milk<br />1 tsp apple cider vinegar<br />1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour<br />2 Tbsp cornstarch<br />3/4 tsp baking powder<br />1/2 tsp baking soda<br />1/2 tsp salt<br />1/3 cup canola oil<br />3/4 cup sugar<br />2 1/4 tsp vanilla extract<br /><br />Preparation<br /><br />Preheat the oven to 350F and line muffin pan with cupcake liners.<br />Whisk the soy milk and vinegar a measuring cup and set aside a few minutes to get good and curdled.<br />In a large bowl, sift the flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Stir to combine.<br />In a separate large bowl, beat together the soy milk mixture, oil, sugar and vanilla. Stir the dry ingredients and mix until no large lumps remain.<br />Fill cupcake liners two-thirds full and bake for 20-22 minutes till done. Transfer to a cooling rack and let cool completely before frosting. <br /><br />For the icing:<br />Ingredients:<br /><br /> * 3/4 cup powdered sugar<br /> * 3/4 cup margarine<br /> * 1/4 cup vanilla soy milk<br /><br />Preparation:<br />Combine ingredients in a mixing bowl. Using an electric mixer, blend until creamy, but not too thick. You want it to be more like icing, not a thick frosting. The consistency of the frosting may vary. Add more sugar, margarine or soy milk as needed.<br /><br />Divide the icing into two bowls. Using a toothpick, add desired food coloring color to each bowl, and mix. I chose pink for one, and purple. <br /><br />After the cupcakes have completely cooled, dip each cupcake in the icing, letting the excess drip off. Quickly coat with sprinkles before the icing sets. <br /><br />I also made a chocolate frosting for about a dozen of the cupcakes, knowing we have many chocolate lovers out there.<br /><br />Vegan Chocolate Frosting:<br /><br /># 1/2 cup vegan margarine<br /># 2 cups vegan powdered sugar*<br /># 1 tablespoon vanilla extract<br /># 2 tablespoons vegan soymilk<br /># 1/3 cup cocoa powder (or more)Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09799071249556868093noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2914714848228056346.post-17486733939295982672009-12-30T15:04:00.000-08:002009-12-30T15:16:07.716-08:00Brownie Bites<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbQw4PGYCzdLc5pqoJRYg770Xc3OAFy9HsMT4PpEc3Yo9SqhnweJBRozT41Z0H8ZthImdS7i8N4iHtebVsM0L68n1frUj8JU6W3Nc_AFcDo64rdf2eF5f-N_UilzwvtuIoIkwP9p-0Xe0/s1600-h/browniedec+207.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbQw4PGYCzdLc5pqoJRYg770Xc3OAFy9HsMT4PpEc3Yo9SqhnweJBRozT41Z0H8ZthImdS7i8N4iHtebVsM0L68n1frUj8JU6W3Nc_AFcDo64rdf2eF5f-N_UilzwvtuIoIkwP9p-0Xe0/s320/browniedec+207.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421171985835706402" /></a><br /><br />I needed something easy and portable that I can take to my friend's New Years Eve Party tomorrow night, and who doesn't love brownies? I thought cutting them into (big) bite sized squares and sprinkling them with powdered sugar would be the perfect thing to bring to a party. <br />The problem I always have with vegan brownies is the lack of moisture. For some reason mine used to always turn out dry and a little crumbly. But not with peanut butter and maple syrup! They came out beautifully moist and fudgey...I only know this because I may have sampled one, or two. Shh!<br /><br /> * 1 ½ cups unbleached all-purpose flour<br /> * 1 ½ cups white sugar<br /> * ½ cup plus 1 T. pure unsweetened cocoa powder<br /> * ¾ t. baking powder<br /> * ¾ t. salt<br /> * ½ cup maple syrup<br /> * 1/2 cup peanut butter<br /> * ¾ cup canola or vegetable oil<br /> * ½ t. vanilla extract<br /><br /> Preheat the oven to 350 F. Grease and flour 9” square cake pan and set aside.<br /><br /> Mix together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder and salt. In a seperate small bowl, blend together the maple syrup, peanut butter, canola oil and vanilla. Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and mix until combined. <br /><br />3. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25 minutes. I took the brownies out a little early, because I prefer gooey fudgey brownies, even the toothpick I poked it with didn't come out clean. But trust me, once they completely cool they firm up a lot, so don't over bake them!! No one wants a dry crusty brownie. Let the brownies cool completely on a wire cooling rack before turning out on a cutting board. Slice brownies into 1" squares, dust with powdered sugar. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD5I-0hb01g-Mk08dOY9emB9KrWcb8V828eQVuIpDs9KEumCmCvKS3J19Mvut8BJ3v2gy4Gk7_ZSbUSuBorIxUtaDPsWPkypY6HVLGgg5k-uxS5RfodJ0aXbCJxIbDQhh8AaJlORXslbI/s1600-h/browniedec+206.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD5I-0hb01g-Mk08dOY9emB9KrWcb8V828eQVuIpDs9KEumCmCvKS3J19Mvut8BJ3v2gy4Gk7_ZSbUSuBorIxUtaDPsWPkypY6HVLGgg5k-uxS5RfodJ0aXbCJxIbDQhh8AaJlORXslbI/s320/browniedec+206.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5421171847911050530" /></a>Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09799071249556868093noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2914714848228056346.post-57719491120916897442009-12-29T17:53:00.000-08:002009-12-29T17:54:44.238-08:00How can I get people to follow my blog?I'm just wondering how many of you successful bloggers out their got to where you are. Did you simply follow many blogs, comment, etc? Any advice or ideas? Thanks :)<br /><br />Just wondering because I'm new to all this!Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09799071249556868093noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2914714848228056346.post-45902439403718714312009-12-29T14:34:00.000-08:002009-12-29T14:52:01.021-08:00"Chicken" Salad<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfgyLdX7Xe43u01UxAZOLywE6ULA8qk9I-HzkYl0VdJ6mlx6z0liWY5KnI55UhHOk-CI-KEieEFVBNbjNw5SC0zX_b3YGgeaLrQQ0vnwuo6gJY1u6UChe-rXHmom_P3mttJv1KnoTrgHQ/s1600-h/dec29+403.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfgyLdX7Xe43u01UxAZOLywE6ULA8qk9I-HzkYl0VdJ6mlx6z0liWY5KnI55UhHOk-CI-KEieEFVBNbjNw5SC0zX_b3YGgeaLrQQ0vnwuo6gJY1u6UChe-rXHmom_P3mttJv1KnoTrgHQ/s320/dec29+403.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420794243125219426" /></a><br />I don't know about you, but I feel like all I've done the past few days is drink wine, hang with family, and eat, eat, eat. I feel the need to eat a little lighter today, or at least make an effort to keep the pastries to a minimum. Nope no pastries today, I need a good couple weeks of healthy eating to get me back on track.<br /><br />This salad was thrown together with whatever I could find in the fridge, and I must say, the result was not too shabby! <br /><br />Serves 1 <br /><br />1/2 head romaine lettuce <br />2 tbs light raspberry vinaigrette (or whatever you have on hand)<br />1-2 tbs dried cranberries (depending on your taste)<br />1/2 large/medium carrot, chopped <br />MorningStar Farms "Chik'N Strips" (1 portion)<br />salt, pepper.<br /><br />Cook the chick'n strips until slightly brown and heated thoroughly. Season with salt and pepper.<br /> <br />Rinse and dry the lettuce, chop, and place in a mixing bowl. Add to the lettuce the cranberries, chopped carrot, and the vinaigrette. Toss and serve with the chick'n.<br /><br />Variations could be to add croutons and slivered almonds, but today I wanted to keep it light.Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09799071249556868093noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2914714848228056346.post-48867880656536506892009-12-28T19:16:00.000-08:002009-12-28T19:23:34.960-08:00I'm so excited, I got the loans I needed for Le Cordon Bleu!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEWLrK7C1MS_Q-rY7TOqd05baXmNhenNscTzC7ViLQJOvE_vCyJOopfiLRtaJxv0JRRjdDO4ZlrxlSM0HkS56nsc2JrjkiE9F4T78D_Bb6rAugktvcU88Fyecs0QwtDtaNUfJpGLwg3sw/s1600-h/pastry.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 208px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEWLrK7C1MS_Q-rY7TOqd05baXmNhenNscTzC7ViLQJOvE_vCyJOopfiLRtaJxv0JRRjdDO4ZlrxlSM0HkS56nsc2JrjkiE9F4T78D_Bb6rAugktvcU88Fyecs0QwtDtaNUfJpGLwg3sw/s320/pastry.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420493176950507858" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7EYRh6bf46hD2ySpQM3xIcAC2xkkLSntuSozIcAqBcayUG1YasK7vxGiXyHfYs-YGILY74Oxx_Pr9IhD1yrIBipU9AnoMKH1zxyt76f7nQj3S1JqDJhYb0oky7yYn_JxMITsgtIYWszo/s1600-h/logo.gif"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 80px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7EYRh6bf46hD2ySpQM3xIcAC2xkkLSntuSozIcAqBcayUG1YasK7vxGiXyHfYs-YGILY74Oxx_Pr9IhD1yrIBipU9AnoMKH1zxyt76f7nQj3S1JqDJhYb0oky7yYn_JxMITsgtIYWszo/s320/logo.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5420492770973729890" /></a><br />Ok, bear with me, I just had to write it, scream it, shriek it somewhere...I got the loans I needed to attend Le Cordon Bleu's Patisserie Program! I spoke with the advisers already, letting them know that I'm vegan (and that I hope to specialize in adapting regular recipe and specializing in vegan pastries). They assured me that a student will never be forced to taste a dish, and that in fact, the chef will not always taste everything you make; 2 dozen students at times, that's a lot of food to sample! <br /><br />I start January 4th, and I'm so excited. Now, about being in debt indefinitely....and finding a job near Pasadena...Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09799071249556868093noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2914714848228056346.post-19796340717166350142009-12-22T19:30:00.001-08:002009-12-22T19:35:15.787-08:00I never tire of a good ol' veggie wrap<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuLN07VPnZS3X5wpxRIsrXfCoMD8xvIZPBFselOOusM6mXHRA-J_VbRLd3QLsBBcmol-DfXCwg5N5OfUunwxhML1gwljHIDhsIfkwen2FsnUfI_Q1kLryvlUwlKoYu8yQ0WlmZB68l2PQ/s1600-h/whole+foods.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuLN07VPnZS3X5wpxRIsrXfCoMD8xvIZPBFselOOusM6mXHRA-J_VbRLd3QLsBBcmol-DfXCwg5N5OfUunwxhML1gwljHIDhsIfkwen2FsnUfI_Q1kLryvlUwlKoYu8yQ0WlmZB68l2PQ/s320/whole+foods.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418270033849033682" /></a><br />Dinner tonight was a veggie wrap from whole foods, <span style="font-style:italic;">deeeelicious</span>. I can't get sick of veggie wraps, so healthy and convenient, although I really should start making them at home, to save money.<br /><br />I love the sandwich bar at WF. Create whatever sandwich or wrap you like, and they will package it to go or serve it "for here" on a plate (they have seating). I chose: hummus, soy cheese, olive spread, tons of veggies, and avocado. The guy making my wrap was very friendly, didn't even charge me for the avocado or the hummus, nice!Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09799071249556868093noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2914714848228056346.post-18174435974376293342009-12-22T12:43:00.000-08:002009-12-22T12:54:01.936-08:00Excited for BabyCakes Bakery Los Angeles!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgij20zSwzv3pTdv2Cs5kchPKG7fgnH8JqdfrVQd9vCUlano1WOc-X_BYpLMh4f3RbqGhvlxDgJrTr3y4Ma01tmH033V3DQrptpkzfgwVcYzy4dt4mth2AIanAbSwRGzFtNw3XK6UPFvyU/s1600-h/BABYCAKES+bakery.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgij20zSwzv3pTdv2Cs5kchPKG7fgnH8JqdfrVQd9vCUlano1WOc-X_BYpLMh4f3RbqGhvlxDgJrTr3y4Ma01tmH033V3DQrptpkzfgwVcYzy4dt4mth2AIanAbSwRGzFtNw3XK6UPFvyU/s320/BABYCAKES+bakery.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5418166684325409906" /></a><br />I first heard about BabyCakes Bakery (in New York City) a while back, before I became vegan. I would sometimes see tabloids with celebrities picking up pastries there (like Natalie Portman). Not that I read tabloid magazines...Never! *cough cough*<br /><br />So I was really excited when I found out they will soon be opening a Babycakes Bakery in Los Angeles. This is the kind of place that I would love to work at or maybe even open someday.<br /><br />Here is the link to their website:<br /><br />http://www.babycakesnyc.com/<br /><br />The prices are pretty expensive, but I suppose it's worth it for vegan convenience desserts, when you don't feel like baking yourself. I'll definitely have to visit (and of course post pictures!) once they are open and decide if it's worth the money!Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09799071249556868093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2914714848228056346.post-577661802398362082009-12-21T22:26:00.000-08:002009-12-21T22:35:18.254-08:00Cafe Muse<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVxSEMSQxgvCcEgrecOF40srGWb4dZabO7taSJKIdCcyo5OqycRW-8SFoWgnmdiOJJLwui6ViZWed0XLoD2SiD8NxY7VQ0Dz5zOclZaGctX6qApoFuOPW15lP0plYEWypFkBqUzfRRrfw/s1600-h/Muse1.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVxSEMSQxgvCcEgrecOF40srGWb4dZabO7taSJKIdCcyo5OqycRW-8SFoWgnmdiOJJLwui6ViZWed0XLoD2SiD8NxY7VQ0Dz5zOclZaGctX6qApoFuOPW15lP0plYEWypFkBqUzfRRrfw/s320/Muse1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417945026451868706" /></a><br />I officially have a new favorite lunch spot, Cafe Muse, located in North Hollywood. My mom and I had lunch here this afternoon after meeting with advisers at Le Cordon Bleu. Culinary school is very expensive! Being under 24 is actually hurting me while trying to apply for financial aid and grants, seeing as they still look at your parents income (which is actually a bad thing seeing as my dad actually makes very good money, there are 9 of us kids though!). How can they look at my parents income, even if I'm not receiving any of it?! Anyway, getting off track here, back to Cafe Muse.<br /><br />The cafe is great because they have food that even non-vegans will enjoy, like real cheese quesedillas or pizza, tuna melts, etc. Which is great, and hopefully I wont have to bribe my boyfriend to come here with me in the future.<br /><br />I had the BBQ soy chicken wrap (with sundried tomatoes and spinach) with a side of sweet potato fries ($9, not bad, the wrap was huge). My mom had a soy "steak" quesedilla with soy cheese. I'm sure their cheese has casein in it, so I didn't get anything containing cheese myself. The only soy cheese I know of that doesn't contain casein is Toffuti and Deiya (sp?).<br />Great lattes as well, we love us some coffee!Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09799071249556868093noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2914714848228056346.post-68913297599312691062009-12-20T20:00:00.000-08:002009-12-20T20:14:03.737-08:00California Vegan<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRpIDym6XvFN-jo2_vZ_4v5fWOYaBgNUEdI8Q86KfT-jWQijn05LfAUjz9w2sp_yQpas7gMqR_PXgW6HCHNX0AznLS_0uEGLW4CwcqBAjcP0-oECgkg3VXKuGuN6Sc9t1wRZem9d_VvPw/s1600-h/californiavegan3.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRpIDym6XvFN-jo2_vZ_4v5fWOYaBgNUEdI8Q86KfT-jWQijn05LfAUjz9w2sp_yQpas7gMqR_PXgW6HCHNX0AznLS_0uEGLW4CwcqBAjcP0-oECgkg3VXKuGuN6Sc9t1wRZem9d_VvPw/s320/californiavegan3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417537336921301826" /></a><br />even non vegan lizzy is enjoying her first miso soup<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg42l4qN-6O5G9Wq2Axnyxvp8tDNDlCekrvOeuGVifx8Gsr0lU51UgEVwigqMnNxLF81ols7IIQVpHPx7aLJAj2xtUUh_QzpQpntoi6xe2mj2ThkgtR054xXarw5VGghT3XibfCApQoMoQ/s1600-h/californiavegan2.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg42l4qN-6O5G9Wq2Axnyxvp8tDNDlCekrvOeuGVifx8Gsr0lU51UgEVwigqMnNxLF81ols7IIQVpHPx7aLJAj2xtUUh_QzpQpntoi6xe2mj2ThkgtR054xXarw5VGghT3XibfCApQoMoQ/s320/californiavegan2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417536984652102690" /></a><br /><br /><br />My little sister and I had the yummiest dinner this evening at California Vegan, a little vegan diner in Los Angeles. I liked the cozy and laid back atmosphere.The customer service was excellent, on the phone calling for directions as well as person. Quick and friendly service, excellent food at very reasonable prices (from $5-$11). I definitely recommend this spot if you're in the LA area.<br /><br />We shared the dinner portion of Orange soy Chicken; which came with rice (although we subbed fries) salad, miso soup, and a veggie spring roll). And for dessert? A GIANT vegan whole wheat pancake, complete with maple syrup and vegan butter. We couldn't get over how delicious it was, fellow diners were probably annoyed by our exclamations and moans, haha.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Qc7WuogNdgZxeM2Fl3aL20F1XlGnJE82_vm7_DLbQ5q9HI1nRirihW4jewg7m5QdCcS6gvLhBvdol1DrCX69VfO9XL1xIKKa465UeEIH2rvT5xoNDtqNweLoR0EI7thbF61b5En1EDY/s1600-h/californiavegan1.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-Qc7WuogNdgZxeM2Fl3aL20F1XlGnJE82_vm7_DLbQ5q9HI1nRirihW4jewg7m5QdCcS6gvLhBvdol1DrCX69VfO9XL1xIKKa465UeEIH2rvT5xoNDtqNweLoR0EI7thbF61b5En1EDY/s320/californiavegan1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5417536882350474034" /></a>Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09799071249556868093noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2914714848228056346.post-70961379284390423142009-12-09T13:57:00.000-08:002009-12-09T14:16:19.870-08:00Cinnamon Apple Raisin Pancakes for One<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvI8lHH_0GNIXNENpi0Xoryx91fIGbvyYlyjquIEIK6Ajah4ty1Bs-s-g8ewU2C-nRpMTFfaN_xjYcQZupCHDmlIflmGmn3_pr6mMNdyPbW7tOlJeOF9hAoeHVhyKpyhiMbBlNg-B0obE/s1600-h/dec2009+604.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvI8lHH_0GNIXNENpi0Xoryx91fIGbvyYlyjquIEIK6Ajah4ty1Bs-s-g8ewU2C-nRpMTFfaN_xjYcQZupCHDmlIflmGmn3_pr6mMNdyPbW7tOlJeOF9hAoeHVhyKpyhiMbBlNg-B0obE/s320/dec2009+604.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413363163132929810" /></a><br /><br />What conjures up more cozy and comforting memories than the warm smell of cinnamon? Nothing! One whiff and I can almost hear the crackling of logs coming from a fireplace, can smell an old dusty book in my lap, and feel the fuzzy fur of a cuddly cat, or two. <br /><br />I usually am cooking or baking for just myself, as I'm the only vegan in my family/friends. I experimented a little and found measurements for single serving pancakes (or waffles! waffle makers are so much fun, they are the best toy for a foodie ever). I don't want to have tons of leftover pancakes, pancakes are so much better when they are fresh! <br /><br />¼ Cup of Whole Wheat Flour<br />1 teaspoon of sugar<br />½ teaspoon of baking powder<br />Dash of salt<br />¼ cup of soy (or almond, rice) milk<br />pinch of cinnamon<br />small spoonful raisins <br />1 tbs finely chopped apple (peeled)<br /><br />Mix the ingredients, and then drop the batter onto a hot and oiled griddle. Flip the pancakes when the top is bubbly. Cook two more minutes, depending on their size.<br /><br />Serve with maple syrup and if you're feeling naughty, some vegan butter (I like smart balance) and sprinkled with cinnamon sugar. <br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmAaNTVLOwCBN1serbEazAFceWGMb2EI5EWvc7lA1XlgvoTTtWqjqieBE01fg4KzIuLDUu7K2dEskm9E9Ws8KAl-xZlGsoYgZ4mFb6nZaKqeLlElYmmGKSCtUDTmGjcnSJvOJPPHNmjPk/s1600-h/dec2009+605.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmAaNTVLOwCBN1serbEazAFceWGMb2EI5EWvc7lA1XlgvoTTtWqjqieBE01fg4KzIuLDUu7K2dEskm9E9Ws8KAl-xZlGsoYgZ4mFb6nZaKqeLlElYmmGKSCtUDTmGjcnSJvOJPPHNmjPk/s320/dec2009+605.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5413363268416916226" /></a>Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09799071249556868093noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2914714848228056346.post-27434139511423933212009-12-04T10:04:00.000-08:002009-12-04T10:09:20.714-08:00Brownies are Evil<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh327wEiZOQzbp0lcPoa-sC-xVh33ZoffyWIlMdrFphxdkqmCAbopbDNKiWIE7T8F5VGiV9CLHr9p7_rG2d7LwVpQr4YAhbRlZrz3T-xJWtyCfUdh68TYPZ93Z1A1AVhMzaFT_daWJqj00/s1600-h/brownie2.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 319px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh327wEiZOQzbp0lcPoa-sC-xVh33ZoffyWIlMdrFphxdkqmCAbopbDNKiWIE7T8F5VGiV9CLHr9p7_rG2d7LwVpQr4YAhbRlZrz3T-xJWtyCfUdh68TYPZ93Z1A1AVhMzaFT_daWJqj00/s320/brownie2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411444242835897714" /></a><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Dear Vegan Brownies,<br />you are very delicious and satisfying, and I don't want you to think that my ending our relationship had anything to do with fault on your part. On the contrary, I'm the one to blame for over indulging in your chewy fudgy and nutty goodness. Maybe at some point in the future we can be friends, see each other from time to time, but for now I just don't think that will be possible, I just cant control myself with you, you're so goddamn irresistible that I devour every last one of you.<br />Sincerely,<br />Dani</span><br /><br />I found this brownie recipe from allrecipes.com (http://allrecipes.com/recipe/vegan-brownies/Detail.aspx)<br /><br />I decided to add a little maple syrup and walnuts, it really helps bind them together, and makes them really gooey and yummy. I had to find a picture online of brownies, because these were devoured so quickly, I was unable to take a picture!<br /><br /><br />Ingredients<br /><br /> * 2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour<br /> * 2 cups white sugar<br /> * 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder<br /> * 1 teaspoon baking powder<br /> * 1 teaspoon salt<br /> * 2/3 cup water<br /> * 1/3 c. maple syrup<br /> * 1 cup vegetable oil<br /> * 1/2 c. walnuts<br /> * 1 teaspoon vanilla extract<br /><br />Directions<br /><br /> 1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).<br /> 2. In a large bowl, stir together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder and salt. Pour in water, vegetable oil and vanilla; mix until well blended. Spread evenly in a 9x13 inch baking pan.<br /> 3. Bake for 25 to 30 minutes in the preheated oven, until the top is no longer shiny. Let cool for at least 10 minutes before cutting into squares.<br /><br />Nutritional Information open nutritional information<br /><br />Amount Per Serving Calories: 284 | Total Fat: 14.3g | Cholesterol: 0mgDanihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09799071249556868093noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2914714848228056346.post-18083262267190984772009-11-30T18:45:00.000-08:002009-11-30T18:48:39.004-08:00Big Bear Burrito<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7OMivYcL5yzgu10EkHz2_nYYFUxGS_hN7KEm-SmKiVC0v2mIhNE3_ie-YBoEGnfPjtKXVZSG-mzWz04l_w5vCKPzTF4NrVdJ7Fx4W6jN7aCqV-J5PsEnHN9OFdhcz3p0nfDNyYZUZTb0/s1600/bigbearburrito.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7OMivYcL5yzgu10EkHz2_nYYFUxGS_hN7KEm-SmKiVC0v2mIhNE3_ie-YBoEGnfPjtKXVZSG-mzWz04l_w5vCKPzTF4NrVdJ7Fx4W6jN7aCqV-J5PsEnHN9OFdhcz3p0nfDNyYZUZTb0/s320/bigbearburrito.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410094195269960946" /></a><br />Yesterday was such a fun day. My boyfriend and I spent the day in Big Bear, sledding and enjoying the cold weather, getting some Christmas shopping done at the cute outdoor shopping area.<br /><br />I may be from Colorado, but hear it from me first, I'm a wimp when it comes to the cold! I had jeans, snow pants, two sweatshirts, a coat, gloves, hat, thermal socks, boots...I felt like that kid, the one from "A Christmas Story" who's mother bundles him in so many layers, he can't move, and falls over on the way to school. "I cant get up!! I can't get up!!" <br /><br />We stopped in at a cute looking mexican restaurant for some lunch. Something about playing in the snow that really works up an appetite. I remember when me and my brothers were young, we were always ravenous after long days of sledding. That's the best time to bake cookies!<br /><br />I couldn't find anything on the menu at first, and I guess my boyfriend could tell I was annoyed and asked if we should go somewhere else. After help from my gracious server (bringing me the package of tortillas...no lard which was fab, but what kind of restaurant uses store bough tortillas??) and a unique request, I was able to order a rice, salsa, grilled veggie and gaucamole burrito.<br /><br />This thing was so huge, halfway through and I was getting full. Great day, perfect way to finish the Thanksgiving weekend with my baby <3Danihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09799071249556868093noreply@blogger.com0