Crystal Ann Yoga + Nutrition

Spicy Red Lentil Dal with Veggies

Inspired by a recent documentary series about Indain curries, I purchased both traditional mild Kashmiri chili powder and also an extra hot version 🔥.

Sweet Potatoes, cauliflower, peas, tomatoes, carrots, onions, garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, ginger root, coconut creme.

The Kashmir chili made a welcome impact and the extra HOT was indeed extra HOT. 🥵

Added some cooling fresh made soy yogurt to finish my meal. Lemon juice can be helpful with minimizing spiciness and saltiness.

Just a little treat I mixed up today.

Matcha Oat Bites
1/2 c tahini
1/3 c maple syrup
1/2 c shredded unsweetened coconut
1 c rolled oats
1 tsp cardamom
1 1/2 TBLSP Matcha powder

Mix all ingredients until well combined. Taste and adjust as desired.
Should be able to take a spoonful of mixture and form it into a ball.
If too dry, add a little more tahini.
If too sticky, add a few more oats.

Refrigerate mixture for about an hour. Roll into balls using about 1 TBLSP for each. Place back in the fridge or put in the freezer until firm.
Store in an airtight container in fridge or freezer. Makes 12-15 bites

Enjoy these nutritious treats.

1st cherry tomatoes of the season
On homemade SD boule smeared with avocado, fresh sprouts and Thai basil

Flavors of Summer

My lunch today was based on my favorite meal at Tao Natural Foods in Minneapolis.

I see the menu has changed since I've last eaten there, however the Tao bowl is very similar to what it used to be. I especially appreciated they made their own sauerkraut! 💚

Straight forward, simple wholesome plant based food.

Friends be sure to enjoy a meal here when you are in the area.

https://www.thetaolife.com/taoorganiccafemenu

After more than two decades studying the world's longest-lived populations, longevity researcher Dan Buettner has landed on a simple message:

"the single biggest thing most people can do for their lifespan is learn to cook whole, plant-based food at home."

I agree with his statement. Some of my recent creations.

Reminds me of the 4-H pledge I learned as a child

I pledge my head to clearer thinking
My heart to greater loyalty
My hands to larger service
My health to better living for
My club
My community
My country
And
My world

Garden Basil Pesto & Sundried tomatoes
My vegan version has nutritional yeast, steamed garlic and walnuts

Magnificent Matcha
To save time , I make a quart of Matcha and store it in the fridge.
It's avaliable to pour a generous mug and drink in all of the delicious antioxidants.
Sometimes I'll add soy milk.

Nourishing and refreshing Summertime drink.

Interesting that this memory popped up today. My plan is to make rhubarb blackcap jam later today/evening.

I've picked the berries and a neighbor shared her rhubarb.

I always prefer berry stained hands over polished nails!

Mulberries and Blackcaps continue and Blackberries will be ready in a few weeks, weather dependant.