Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Be Aware of Negative Self Talk
I want to train myself to be aware of the negative thoughts that come into my head and then let them go. Examples of negative thoughts: “I’m too fat,” “I’m not good enough,” “Good things never happen to me,” “Life sucks.” This is programming from others that I have adopted as my own thoughts.
The spotlight on this came to me when I was watching Letsgetraw youtube channel. She wants to be a raw foodist so bad, but cannot turn the corner. I think she should try to be vegan first then hit the raw side of life because raw is hardcore vegetarianism. She makes informative videos about beginning a raw diet, foods that one can choose, the health benefits of a raw diet, and how a raw diet aids in significant weight loss for those who have excess weight. And yet, she misses the key component of the raw diet—the spirit. If the spirit is not ready, there is nothing the body can do to get the spirit to move. Change moves in waves; sometimes it flows quickly as if one has been hit by lightening. Other times change’s movement is barely felt, and yet change is happening. It is the only constant.
With that being said, I think both Letsgetraw and myself need to just relax and let it happen. Letsgetraw inspirational speeches have a slight negative bent. She calls herself a failure for not losing weight. She gets angry at herself for needing cooked food. I do the same thing, get angry at myself for need. I saw (and still see) myself in her. We are both wrapped up in perfectionism. There is no perfection, life is messy; learning is messy, and it is okay.
A thought came to me about cleansing the body, so the spirit can focus. I feel like I am clearing toxins out of my body, so I can move in a higher vibration. It’s just a thought.
Okay, People, I am out of here. I wish you peace, eye candy everywhere you go, and love.
Check out Letsgetraw talk about her one year journey as a raw foodist.
The spotlight on this came to me when I was watching Letsgetraw youtube channel. She wants to be a raw foodist so bad, but cannot turn the corner. I think she should try to be vegan first then hit the raw side of life because raw is hardcore vegetarianism. She makes informative videos about beginning a raw diet, foods that one can choose, the health benefits of a raw diet, and how a raw diet aids in significant weight loss for those who have excess weight. And yet, she misses the key component of the raw diet—the spirit. If the spirit is not ready, there is nothing the body can do to get the spirit to move. Change moves in waves; sometimes it flows quickly as if one has been hit by lightening. Other times change’s movement is barely felt, and yet change is happening. It is the only constant.
With that being said, I think both Letsgetraw and myself need to just relax and let it happen. Letsgetraw inspirational speeches have a slight negative bent. She calls herself a failure for not losing weight. She gets angry at herself for needing cooked food. I do the same thing, get angry at myself for need. I saw (and still see) myself in her. We are both wrapped up in perfectionism. There is no perfection, life is messy; learning is messy, and it is okay.
A thought came to me about cleansing the body, so the spirit can focus. I feel like I am clearing toxins out of my body, so I can move in a higher vibration. It’s just a thought.
Okay, People, I am out of here. I wish you peace, eye candy everywhere you go, and love.
Check out Letsgetraw talk about her one year journey as a raw foodist.
Monday, February 15, 2010
Nicole's Motivational Picture
Nicole's fighting weight. This is me when I felt healthy and fit before I moved to Stockton. I use this photo as motivation. It was my postcard when I was acting. I think I have about 5 months to go before I will be back at my fighting weight. Then my back will feel good, and my knees will not hurt. The more my health improves, the more my size will move to normal ranges for a person my height.
To increase my mental fitness, I think I need to start performing again. Not, show business, just for fun. I am putting wheels in motion. I have to start writing more, so I will have material. Performing will give me a release.
Sunflower Seed Pâté in Collard Green Wraps
Yesterday, I ate 100% raw, and I made delicious collard green wraps with a sunflower seed pâté, and a tomato and tomatillo salsa.
I soaked the sunflower seed overnight. Before I used them, I rinsed and drained the sunflower seeds. It was my first time making this pâté.
The collard greens scared me at first because I know how long it takes to cook collards, so they are not tough. I thought the collards would be peppery, bitter and not very tasty. I had to figure out how to infuse flavor into the collards while softening them. Grapefruit. I have been on a pink grapefruit kick for the last few weeks; why not continue it with the collard green wraps.
I cut the stem out of the leaves and cut them in half lengthwise. I place the leaves in a bowl and squeezed pink grapefruit & lime juice all over them. It worked; the leaves were peppery with a sweet taste to them.
In this photo, I have gathered the ingredients: sunflower seeds, collard greens, jalapeno pepper, carrot, celery, shallot, nutritional yeast, lime, pink grapefruit, kosher salt. Tomatoes and broccoli slaw are not shown here, but were used in the recipe.A few things are happening with this raw experiment:
1. I have gotten the biggest zit I have ever had in the entirety of my life.
2. Increase physical and mental energy.
3. Last night, I slept well, and I felt rested this morning.
4. When I first began, I had a headache for 3 or 4 days, but haven’t had a headache since.
5. I feel lighter.
For the first time in a long time my weight loss goal is actually in grasps. I can see my stomach muscles tightening, my back fat disappearing, my thighs have finally stopped touching. I have to keep working it because it works.
Nicole with her friend the zit. Don't forget to check out Eatingvegan1234 on youtube to see me creating the recipe.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Are you a vegetarian or a Vegan?
Today, I am starting all over with my raw thing. I still have not been to the gym because of my leg,but it is getting better.
Yesterday, I went to tutor training at CSU Stan, and yes someone (Jessica) came up to me and asked if I was a vegetarian. Then Jessica asked if I was a vegan and if being a vegan and a vegetarian is the same thing. You know what, I am glad that she asked. She seems to be interested in health and losing weight. I told her, “I am a vegan, which is like a strict vegetarian. Vegetarians do not eat meat, but they eat dairy, things like eggs, milk, cheese. However, a vegan does not eat any type of animal product.” She smiled.
Later that day when we were in the APA training session, Paula and Rachel began a conversation about veal. How they would not eat veal because the animals are treated inhumanly. I believe Rachel said that it disgusts her. I said, “If I ate meat, I would eat veal.” They were shocked by controversial statement. Why would I say that? The point is this, if one is going to participate in the murder and torture of animals, how can one choose one death over another. Killing is killing no matter how you look at it. I asked them if they ate chicken. “Yes” was the reply then I explained how baby chicks are hatched in a machine, they never know the warmth of their mothers, or the safety of their mother’s wings; they are sorted; they have their beaks clipped, so they do not peek themselves to death. I think I grossed Paula and Rachel out. I gave them the nice version.
Writing Center Director Paula thowing down some information for the people!
Lettuce, tomatoes, Greek olives, white beans, cucumbers & zucchini, avocado, blood red oranges, sunflower seeds with dried berries. This is what I ate the other day. I layed out my spread and got down with it.
Yesterday, I went to tutor training at CSU Stan, and yes someone (Jessica) came up to me and asked if I was a vegetarian. Then Jessica asked if I was a vegan and if being a vegan and a vegetarian is the same thing. You know what, I am glad that she asked. She seems to be interested in health and losing weight. I told her, “I am a vegan, which is like a strict vegetarian. Vegetarians do not eat meat, but they eat dairy, things like eggs, milk, cheese. However, a vegan does not eat any type of animal product.” She smiled.
Later that day when we were in the APA training session, Paula and Rachel began a conversation about veal. How they would not eat veal because the animals are treated inhumanly. I believe Rachel said that it disgusts her. I said, “If I ate meat, I would eat veal.” They were shocked by controversial statement. Why would I say that? The point is this, if one is going to participate in the murder and torture of animals, how can one choose one death over another. Killing is killing no matter how you look at it. I asked them if they ate chicken. “Yes” was the reply then I explained how baby chicks are hatched in a machine, they never know the warmth of their mothers, or the safety of their mother’s wings; they are sorted; they have their beaks clipped, so they do not peek themselves to death. I think I grossed Paula and Rachel out. I gave them the nice version.
Writing Center Director Paula thowing down some information for the people!
Lettuce, tomatoes, Greek olives, white beans, cucumbers & zucchini, avocado, blood red oranges, sunflower seeds with dried berries. This is what I ate the other day. I layed out my spread and got down with it.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Still Injured
February 10, 2010
I’ve barely eaten a thing in two days because I cannot exercise. Yesterday, I had refried beans and corn tortillas. I did not have any fruit or vegetables. This injury is affecting my mood. I need exercise and fresh foods, but I know I cannot do yoga and zumba this morning. The sad thing is that I could feel my body getting stronger and lighter with the daily exercise.
I have a fear that I will get fat all over again if the healing does not speed up. I’ve gone off my eight week plan because I have not gone shopping for the fresh foods that I need (remember I cannot walk or stand for long periods of time). So, I am stuck with the items I have in the house. I am going to make an effort to get to Trader Joe’s today, just to pick some stuff up.
Tomorrow, I am going to “Tudor” training at school, which is going to kill me because I can barely walk. Also, I have to bring a dish that I enjoy for lunch; it’s a potluck. Ideas for a dish: kale soup, vegan sushi rolls, onion & Greek olive pizza, a big-ass salad, wild rice and vegetables, stuffed mushrooms, stuffed zucchini, fruit salad, sunflower seed pate with pita bread. I could just buy something and call it a day (idiomatic expression).
I’ve barely eaten a thing in two days because I cannot exercise. Yesterday, I had refried beans and corn tortillas. I did not have any fruit or vegetables. This injury is affecting my mood. I need exercise and fresh foods, but I know I cannot do yoga and zumba this morning. The sad thing is that I could feel my body getting stronger and lighter with the daily exercise.
I have a fear that I will get fat all over again if the healing does not speed up. I’ve gone off my eight week plan because I have not gone shopping for the fresh foods that I need (remember I cannot walk or stand for long periods of time). So, I am stuck with the items I have in the house. I am going to make an effort to get to Trader Joe’s today, just to pick some stuff up.
Tomorrow, I am going to “Tudor” training at school, which is going to kill me because I can barely walk. Also, I have to bring a dish that I enjoy for lunch; it’s a potluck. Ideas for a dish: kale soup, vegan sushi rolls, onion & Greek olive pizza, a big-ass salad, wild rice and vegetables, stuffed mushrooms, stuffed zucchini, fruit salad, sunflower seed pate with pita bread. I could just buy something and call it a day (idiomatic expression).
Monday, February 8, 2010
Went all raw on Sunday
It’s Monday, and I am still injured. This is a lesson to listen to that little voice, but I cannot live in “if.” Yesterday, I did not eat anything cooked. I ate an all raw diet. I made a salad, which I snacked on all day. I had several handfuls of raw cashews, and some watermelon.
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Vegan Mushroom Gravy
February 6, 2010
Up before dawn, I worked on my reading list by starting to outline one of the books I read. I felt great about myself—like I’m really committed. For breakfast, I only drank peppermint tea with lemon and ate a cup of watermelon & pineapple.
I WENT TO THE GYM, and that is when it happened. I had to do step. First, I was late because I thought the class started at 9:30 (it starts at 9 am). I toyed with the idea of walking on the treadmill instead, but no. I had to step because that was all I could think about this morning. I wanted to get a work out on, so I could spritz (perspire) all of the toxins out of my body. I even stretched at home, so I felt warm, yeah. I did not listen to my little voice that said “Nicole, walk the treadmill,” and I got injured—a calf strain injury. I looked it up on the internet. I tried to stretch it out and to go on for about 25 minutes, but it hurt too much, so I just quit. I walked the treadmill for 20 minutes then went home.
Now, in the present, my calf hurts and I can barely walk. So, I am going to take it easy for a few days, but that does not mean I am stopping my 8 week program.
Up before dawn, I worked on my reading list by starting to outline one of the books I read. I felt great about myself—like I’m really committed. For breakfast, I only drank peppermint tea with lemon and ate a cup of watermelon & pineapple.
I WENT TO THE GYM, and that is when it happened. I had to do step. First, I was late because I thought the class started at 9:30 (it starts at 9 am). I toyed with the idea of walking on the treadmill instead, but no. I had to step because that was all I could think about this morning. I wanted to get a work out on, so I could spritz (perspire) all of the toxins out of my body. I even stretched at home, so I felt warm, yeah. I did not listen to my little voice that said “Nicole, walk the treadmill,” and I got injured—a calf strain injury. I looked it up on the internet. I tried to stretch it out and to go on for about 25 minutes, but it hurt too much, so I just quit. I walked the treadmill for 20 minutes then went home.
Now, in the present, my calf hurts and I can barely walk. So, I am going to take it easy for a few days, but that does not mean I am stopping my 8 week program.
I am grateful to only have a calf strain. I have to keep it positive people.
Jumping to last night, I had my cooked meal for dinner. I prepared meatless (vegan griller patties) potatoes and mushroom gravy with cole slaw.
When I first became vegan, I craved gravy. I didn’t think I could make it without butter and meat drippings. I toyed with buying the little packets of vegetarian gravy, but the flavor not so great. Then it hit me, I can make my roux with olive oil, and I can substitute vegetable stock for meat drippings. The key is making sure to get color on the vegetables. So, here is my mushroom gravy recipe and I hope it helps some of you out there.
Mushroom Gravy (serves 4)
Ingredients: Cremini mushrooms sliced thick, 10oz vegetable stock, ½ yellow onion chopped, 2 cloves of garlic chopped, ¼ cup of flour, lemon zest and lemon juice, 2 sprigs thyme, 1 bay leaf, parsley, ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper.
Process: Place olive oil in hot pan. Throw in the onion and mushrooms (season with salt and pepper to taste); allow them to get some color. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables, and cook a little to let the flour lose its raw flavor. Now, add the vegetable stock, and stir making sure to pick up the flavor from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a boil then turn the heat down. Add garlic, thyme (just leaves not stems), bay leaf, lemon zest, and lemon juice, and let simmer for 10 minutes. This is the point when I add the vegan griller patties to the pan and let them cook through and absorb some of that flavor in the pan.
Ingredients: Cremini mushrooms sliced thick, 10oz vegetable stock, ½ yellow onion chopped, 2 cloves of garlic chopped, ¼ cup of flour, lemon zest and lemon juice, 2 sprigs thyme, 1 bay leaf, parsley, ¼ cup of extra virgin olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper.
Process: Place olive oil in hot pan. Throw in the onion and mushrooms (season with salt and pepper to taste); allow them to get some color. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables, and cook a little to let the flour lose its raw flavor. Now, add the vegetable stock, and stir making sure to pick up the flavor from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a boil then turn the heat down. Add garlic, thyme (just leaves not stems), bay leaf, lemon zest, and lemon juice, and let simmer for 10 minutes. This is the point when I add the vegan griller patties to the pan and let them cook through and absorb some of that flavor in the pan.
Friday, February 5, 2010
Green Salad and Assholes in Yoga
February 5, 2010
I’m still doing the raw diet. Last night, I prepared a large and delicious salad. Plus, I got to use my salad spinner, which I only used twice since I bought it in 2008.
Since I have a financial deficit (I’m broke and it’s no joke), I cannot afford the pre-washed greens. I have beautiful green leaf lettuce, but it is dirty. I can actually see the dirt on the leaves.
When I was making my salad, I could not figure out how I was going to wash the lettuce and dry it so my ruby, red grapefruit dressing will not be diluted. That was when I remembered my salad spinner. I was so happy. My lettuce came out clean and dry. Why the hell have I been paying 2.99 for lettuce when I can get it for .99, and spin that shit? That’s what I’ve been asking myself since last night.
Green salad:
Green leaf lettuce, cherry tomatoes, half of green bell pepper, garbanzo beans, Greek black olives, a handful of parsley, clover sprouts, half of an avocado.
I’m still doing the raw diet. Last night, I prepared a large and delicious salad. Plus, I got to use my salad spinner, which I only used twice since I bought it in 2008.
Since I have a financial deficit (I’m broke and it’s no joke), I cannot afford the pre-washed greens. I have beautiful green leaf lettuce, but it is dirty. I can actually see the dirt on the leaves.
When I was making my salad, I could not figure out how I was going to wash the lettuce and dry it so my ruby, red grapefruit dressing will not be diluted. That was when I remembered my salad spinner. I was so happy. My lettuce came out clean and dry. Why the hell have I been paying 2.99 for lettuce when I can get it for .99, and spin that shit? That’s what I’ve been asking myself since last night.
Green salad:
Green leaf lettuce, cherry tomatoes, half of green bell pepper, garbanzo beans, Greek black olives, a handful of parsley, clover sprouts, half of an avocado.
Grapefruit Dressing: 1 shallot, 1 clove of garlic, half of a red grapefruit, half of a lime, red pepper flakes, a pinch of kosher salt.
Combine the minced garlic clove and the sliced shallot in a bowl then squeeze the lemon and grapefruit over them (this is important because the citrus fruits mellow these root veggies). Then add the salt & red pepper flakes to taste.
Combine the minced garlic clove and the sliced shallot in a bowl then squeeze the lemon and grapefruit over them (this is important because the citrus fruits mellow these root veggies). Then add the salt & red pepper flakes to taste.
I’ve had a headache since I woke up. I think it is from eating less cooked food. Many of the raw foodist that I have researched and spoken to, tell me that this is normal. Apparently my body is rid itself of toxins. However, I do not feel weak like many people have reported, but it is only the third day.
This morning, I blended a personal seedless watermelon (the whole thing) and a cup of strawberries for breakfast. I’m saving my cooked meal for dinner tonight. I went to the gym on this fruit. I did an hour yoga and an hour of Zumba.
This morning, I blended a personal seedless watermelon (the whole thing) and a cup of strawberries for breakfast. I’m saving my cooked meal for dinner tonight. I went to the gym on this fruit. I did an hour yoga and an hour of Zumba.
On the spiritual side, I told myself to spread love to humans and think of the many blessings in my life. That was before I got cut off in traffic and started calling people dumb-asses. I came back to my senses and chanted to myself “Today, I will not be an asshole. Today, I will be kind to all humans.” My mini-mantra worked because I did not curse at two bitches who invaded my space and stood in front of my yoga mat, and I mean close like not even an inch away. I found that to be a hostile act because there was plenty of room in the large dance studio for them stand and talk, and neither one of those bitches was near her own mat. They made it a point to invade my space. However, I sat down on the edge of mat and smiled while I gathered myself. I am still a crazy, angry, asshole, who needs to refrain from the consumption of meat. Namasta
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Miso Soup for Breakfast
I have been inspired by the life-regenerator to try raw food. Many raw foodists claim that a diet free from cooked foods will provide optimum health. The major effect of raw food is weight loss, but others have claimed to have serious illnesses cured or put into a state of remission. I’m all about the weight loss, and the beauty factor of the diet. I’ve got to start somewhere, so why not with vanity.
On the spiritual side, I have noticed that the fruit & veg has cleared up some of my mental fog. I am able to notice emotions and thoughts that are just programming (thoughts that are on a mental loop, thoughts that I have without questioning). It’s like I am still affected from negative experiences that happen in the past. These experiences come with actual physical sensations. I can feel my heart quicken, the heat rise through my body, and the anger. So, if I can recall negative experiences, then why can’t I call recall positive. That is the programming. I am programmed to focus on the toxic thoughts (e.g. Life sucks, I never get a chance, etc…). I could write a list of these negative thoughts, but I want to focus on the positive and the blessings in my life, to reprogram my mental wiring.
What I am doing to make this reprogramming happen?
I have renewed my commitment to exercise. Lately, I have been getting a little bit of a happy feeling after working out.
Oh, I am off my point. I wanted to talk about the raw food thing. Yesterday, I started an 8 week experiment with eating raw. Realistically, I cannot be 100% raw because I love to cook, but I want to try 80% raw. So, I told myself that I can have one cooked meal a day, which can be breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Today as well as yesterday, I started my day with miso soup. Then I went to the gym and walked for 45 minutes on the treadmill. I really need a mellow day today because yesterday, I did yoga and zumba.
Miso Soup recipe (serves 2):
2 teaspoons of white miso paste, 2 cups of water, 1 green onion, 5 mushrooms, 1kale leaf, and ¼ teaspoon of wakeme seaweed.
Soak wakeme in a little bit of water until it expands, Mix miso paste with the rest of the water, add mushrooms and kale bring to almost a boil, turn fire to low cook until kale is tender. Take wakeme out of water and chop into thin threads, and add the water to pot. Turn fire off and add wakeme.
Serve in a bowl garnish with green onions for flavor and for beauty.
On the spiritual side, I have noticed that the fruit & veg has cleared up some of my mental fog. I am able to notice emotions and thoughts that are just programming (thoughts that are on a mental loop, thoughts that I have without questioning). It’s like I am still affected from negative experiences that happen in the past. These experiences come with actual physical sensations. I can feel my heart quicken, the heat rise through my body, and the anger. So, if I can recall negative experiences, then why can’t I call recall positive. That is the programming. I am programmed to focus on the toxic thoughts (e.g. Life sucks, I never get a chance, etc…). I could write a list of these negative thoughts, but I want to focus on the positive and the blessings in my life, to reprogram my mental wiring.
What I am doing to make this reprogramming happen?
I have renewed my commitment to exercise. Lately, I have been getting a little bit of a happy feeling after working out.
Oh, I am off my point. I wanted to talk about the raw food thing. Yesterday, I started an 8 week experiment with eating raw. Realistically, I cannot be 100% raw because I love to cook, but I want to try 80% raw. So, I told myself that I can have one cooked meal a day, which can be breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Today as well as yesterday, I started my day with miso soup. Then I went to the gym and walked for 45 minutes on the treadmill. I really need a mellow day today because yesterday, I did yoga and zumba.
Miso Soup recipe (serves 2):
2 teaspoons of white miso paste, 2 cups of water, 1 green onion, 5 mushrooms, 1kale leaf, and ¼ teaspoon of wakeme seaweed.
Soak wakeme in a little bit of water until it expands, Mix miso paste with the rest of the water, add mushrooms and kale bring to almost a boil, turn fire to low cook until kale is tender. Take wakeme out of water and chop into thin threads, and add the water to pot. Turn fire off and add wakeme.
Serve in a bowl garnish with green onions for flavor and for beauty.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Spanikopitas Vegan Style
My lesson for the day is to increase energy, and to let go of energy suckers. The goal is to increase my sense of peace, and to close the door on old aquaintances (whether people, or habits)that drains me of my life force.Today, I needed some energy. So, I tried to make some vegan spanikopita. They were delicious, but I do not have the triangle thing down. After about the third one I folded wrong, and just started folding them any direction that took my fancy.
I love spanikopita. What is better that spinach and cheese encrusted in light and flaky dough? Being a vegan, I cannot get them from my usually haunts; no one makes spanikopita without dairy. Make sure to season in layers., so I created this recipe.Ingredients:
1 bunch of spinach (note: make sure the spinach is washed to removed dirt and grit. It sucks to put gritty spinach in my)
juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon of sea salt
1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
1 onion
1 chopped clove of garlic
1 cup of chopped mushrooms
9 sheets of filo dough
½ cup of olive oil
¼ cup of white flour
¼ cup of plain almond milk (note: you can also use soy milk, rice milk, or a milk substitute of your choosing)
¼ cup of white wine
5 slices of vegan mozzarella cheese (optional)
Steps to prepare:1. Sauté spinach with lemon juice until spinach wilts. Make sure to season spinach with salt & pepper to taste.
2. Strain all of the juice from the spinach and put to the side
3. Pour ¼ cup of olive oil in sauté pan heat.
4. Place chopped mushroom in with the oil olive, season to taste with salt & pepper, sauté until the mushrooms get some color on them.
5. Add the onion and the garlic, season with salt & pepper to taste, and sauté until onions and garlic are transparent.
6. Add flour, almond milk, spinach and wine stir. This makes a creamy sauce.
7. Place spinach filling in a food processor and blitz a few seconds.
8. Get 9 sheets of filo dough, and place them between two wet towels, so they don’t dry out. Paper towels are a bad idea. I learned that the hard way. The filo sheets will stick to the paper towels.
9. Brush one filo sheet with olive oil, place spinach filling on filo sheet, fold into to triangle, or a packet, or whatever you can do. Then add vegan mozzarella cheese to five of them.
10. Place it on a parchment lined sheet pan and repeat steps 8 and 9.
11. Bake at 375 degrees for 8 minutes, or until golden brown, and remove from oven and serve (recipe makes 9).
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Watermelon Coolie
I am just writing because I need to write. I am doing this for eating vegan. That has been my mantra the last few days. Since, I last wrote I have walked and stretched everyday. Yeah Cole! I am increasing the exercise. Basically, I am lazy and I rather stay in bed watching television. My thoughts were resistant to exercise, and I kept telling myself that I think of better things to do. A question popped in my mind, “Can you?” I went on a thought twist like this: I am not working. I am not going to school.
Finally, I came to the conclusion that eating vegan, exercising and writing is my summer job. It is the only way that I can accept the exercise. That being said, I swam the last five days. I went to the gym three times for cardio dance/salsa.I’m still going blender mad. I am making Watermelon Coolies; a beverage that is truly refreshing. I like to have the Watermelon coolie after the gym. It is cold with a flavor of extrawater. On my first try, I blended ice, watermelon, pineapple, lime juice, and a splash of orange juice. The orange juice over powered the drink and gave it sharp pre-taste. If there are after- tastes then can’t there be pre-tastes? The lesson is to omit the orange juice.
My second attempt making Watermelon Coolies, I blended a shit load of ice, a bunch of watermelon, a lot of fresh pineapple chunks, and the juice of one lime. I blitzed the shit out of that fruit. The resulting liquid was so cold and delicious. I drank one glass right there, and then I filled my glass up again. I gave the rest to my brother.
I don’t have a picture to share. I was so excited that I could not get it together to take a picture. I just wanted that watermelon juice in my belly.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Vegan Sushi Rolls
I started making sushi rolls in January. When I went to the Japanese store to get the burdock, I asked to woman who works there if she can recommend items to put in my sushi rolls. She told me that she really doesn’t make sushi at home. She and her husband go out for sushi. She made some vain suggestions then showed me the sushi she had waiting in the glass refrigerator. She kind of made me feel stupid for wanting to make my own sushi. I made my rolls, and they were pretty darn good, but I was haunted by the Japanese store lady. I kept hearing her say, “Oh, I, we really don’t make sushi, Japanese go out for sushi.” I felt like there is something wrong with my sushi. I had to get to a Japanese restaurant where I will have REAL vegan sushi rolls.I went to Misaki’s, a Japanese restaurant on Monday. This was the first time that I have gone there since I became a vegan. I did not know what to order. Usually, I’d take a box 13, which is the grilled salmon, California rolls, tempura vegetables, rice, soup, and salad. In the lunch box section of the menu, there was not a vegetarian choice. Everything contained some type of animal whether cow, chicken, or fish.
I sat at the bar. I usually sit at a table. I was not comfortable. The space at the bar was small, and I do not like having my back to the door. The waitress seemed impatient and rushed me to order. When I asked if there were vegetarian options for items on the menu, she could not answer my questions. I should have had her come back, but I felt rushed. I wanted to order the fried tofu, a salad, soup, cucumber/avocado rolls, and rice. I had the taste for the tempura vegetables, and I asked the waitress about them, then the guy behind the counter (the sushi maker guy) said, “Get the tempura vegetables, it has rice and soup. So, I ordered the tempura vegetables and cucumber/avocado rolls.
The rolls were okay. I did not like sitting in front of the guy making my lunch. I could not relax and enjoy my lunch. I wish the rolls had more spice to them, they were rather flavorless. In rolls with fish, the flavor comes from the fish. When the rolls do not contain fish, the vegetables must be flavorful, and there must to be some type of spice or herb.
Vegan food does not have to be boring and bland. Vegan food requires imagination on the part of the cook. It takes more effort than just putting vegetation on a plate. Nutrition and flavor are important. As a vegan, I want to be satisfied after I eat a meal. I don’t want to pay $20 for lunch and still feel hungry. I want food to taste and look good.
The tempura vegetables were greasy and tasteless. All I could taste was oil. The serving size was enormous. There was no way, I was going to eat a big ass plate of fried tasteless vegetables. I ate two pieces and that was it. I got my check. I put $2 in the tip bowl and paid my bill. The hostess asked if I liked my lunch. I said, “No, not really.” I left.
The Misaki encounter had me thinking all week about sushi rolls. I can make rolls that have more flavor than the Misaki rolls. I have made rolls that are delicious. You’re probably thinking, “Now, she is going to ask me to make sushi rolls, is this chick nuts because I don’t have a bamboo mat, I cannot roll, and I’d rather buy sushi.” You do not need a bamboo mat to make sushi rolls. Take a clean dry cutting board, lay down a sheet of cling wrap then place a paper towel on top of the cling wrap. Now you have your rolling surface.
I decide to make rolls yesterday. Check out the recipe. Vegan Sushi Rolls
Ingredients:
3 cups of cooked brown rice
Seasoned Rice vinegar
Black sesame seeds
Sesame seed oil
Agave nectar
Nanami Togarashi (usually contains chili pepper, orange peel, black sesame seed, white sesame seed, Japanese pepper, ginger, seaweed)
Wasabi powder (mix to paste by adding water)
1 pk of burdock
1 cucumber sliced length wise
Sliced pickled ginger
Mushrooms
1 avocado
Ingredients:
3 cups of cooked brown rice
Seasoned Rice vinegar
Black sesame seeds
Sesame seed oil
Agave nectar
Nanami Togarashi (usually contains chili pepper, orange peel, black sesame seed, white sesame seed, Japanese pepper, ginger, seaweed)
Wasabi powder (mix to paste by adding water)
1 pk of burdock
1 cucumber sliced length wise
Sliced pickled ginger
Mushrooms
1 avocado
4 sheets of nori
Step to prepare:
The trick to making rolls is having all the ingredients prepared and ready before beginning to roll. I am not going to give exact measurements for the seasonings, just add a little at a time, and taste it to see if you like it. Use your taste buds to determine how much vinegar you needs. Use your eyes to add the sesame seeds. Remember to go easy on the sesame seed oil because it is strong and can overpower your rice, so start with a little (a capful) and go from there.
1. Mix your rice with some black sesame seeds, sesame oil, seasoned rice vinegar, and a squish of agave nectar, and divide the rice into four sections, so there is enough rice for each nori sheet.
2. Toast your nori sheets over the burner on low heat to keep from getting burned. The toasting takes just a few seconds.
3. Spread a bed of rice over a nori sheet, but do not spread the rice to the ends of the nori sheet. Now sprinkle the rice with Nanami Togarashi, this is hot, so sprinkle to your taste.
4. On the bed of rice, lay down some cucumber, avocado, mushrooms, ginger, three sprigs of burdock, (note: make sure that there is enough vegetables for each roll. You can also mix and match the vegetables.)
5. Put some wasabi on the tip of your finger and run it on the rice bed next to the vegetables (note: wasabi is strong, so use it to taste)
6. Roll the nori sheet with the bed of rice and vegetables.
7. Make sure the seam side is down and cut into six pieces.
8. Repeat steps 3 and 7 with each of your nori sheets. This recipe makes 24 Cole Rolls.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
BREAKFAST SMOOTHIE
One of the problems I have encountered on this vegan road is breakfast. What do I eat for breakfast as a vegan? Before becoming vegan, I would usually eat a breakfast that contained some type of animal product whether dairy or meat. Generally, I ate some combination of the following eggs, cheese, and butter. On rare occasions, I would eat bacon, or sausage. Before, I can tell you the food choices I make for breakast. I have to explain my opinion on using tofu as a substitute for dairy because my view of tofu is the basis for the composition of my recipes. If you want to know what I have tried, what I like, and what I despise then read on.
Tofu scramble is absolutely ghastly! Fresh tofu is fine in Asian dishes, but when tofu is disguised, or used to substitute for an actually diary ingredient such as eggs, or ricotta cheese, it stinks. I can detect a back note similar to the taste of penicillin. It does not matter how tofu is chopped, blended, flavored, roasted, or toasted; I can always identify the penicillin taste. If I am eating tofu, I like to have it as the star of the dish. I do not try to disguise its flavor or appearance, and that makes tofu delicious to me.
This morning, I had a strawberry, banana smoothie for breakfast. I am adding more fruit into my diet. I’ve read that fruit is good for the eyes. We are all looking to die in good health, so I’m starting my day with a fruit smoothie. One thing I notice about drinking a smoothie is that it is an easy way to consume a large quantity for fruit—three servings of fruit per blender. After drinking a couple classes of breakfast smoothie, I feel energized. I also like how it makes my breath smell--sweet. Lately, I am all about smell. Check out my recipe for BREAKFAST SMOOTHIE.
Breakfast Smoothie:
1 cup of ice
1 cup of blueberries
1 cup of strawberries
1 banana
1cup of almond milk
½ cup of orange juice
Add all ingredients together in a blender, then consume. This recipe serves two. If you want it creamier, add more bananas. If you want it juicier, add more orange juice and almond milk. This recipe is adjustable to your tastes. Notice, it does not have soft tofu in it. If you use frozen berries, omit the ice.
I know that I have lost weight, but I am still fat. It is like my fat lost weight. I must have been really huge. I don’t have that many pictures of myself from the last three years. I did not want to see how fat I had gotten. Now, I move better. My ankles do not hurt. I can cross my legs.
It has been a year since I started actively pursuing weight loss. I am walking on a regular basis. I stopped drinking beer. I started consuming more fruits and vegetables. Sounds idyllic, but there are aspects of myself that I really need to work on if I want to rid myself of the excess weight. I need to organize my thoughts and communicate them clear and concisely. I need to have a work ethic by designating a particular time of day to write or to read, and not watching television. I need to watch less television. I need to get to the gym five days a week for the cardio dance classes.
Tofu scramble is absolutely ghastly! Fresh tofu is fine in Asian dishes, but when tofu is disguised, or used to substitute for an actually diary ingredient such as eggs, or ricotta cheese, it stinks. I can detect a back note similar to the taste of penicillin. It does not matter how tofu is chopped, blended, flavored, roasted, or toasted; I can always identify the penicillin taste. If I am eating tofu, I like to have it as the star of the dish. I do not try to disguise its flavor or appearance, and that makes tofu delicious to me.
This morning, I had a strawberry, banana smoothie for breakfast. I am adding more fruit into my diet. I’ve read that fruit is good for the eyes. We are all looking to die in good health, so I’m starting my day with a fruit smoothie. One thing I notice about drinking a smoothie is that it is an easy way to consume a large quantity for fruit—three servings of fruit per blender. After drinking a couple classes of breakfast smoothie, I feel energized. I also like how it makes my breath smell--sweet. Lately, I am all about smell. Check out my recipe for BREAKFAST SMOOTHIE.
Breakfast Smoothie:
1 cup of ice
1 cup of blueberries
1 cup of strawberries
1 banana
1cup of almond milk
½ cup of orange juice
Add all ingredients together in a blender, then consume. This recipe serves two. If you want it creamier, add more bananas. If you want it juicier, add more orange juice and almond milk. This recipe is adjustable to your tastes. Notice, it does not have soft tofu in it. If you use frozen berries, omit the ice.
I know that I have lost weight, but I am still fat. It is like my fat lost weight. I must have been really huge. I don’t have that many pictures of myself from the last three years. I did not want to see how fat I had gotten. Now, I move better. My ankles do not hurt. I can cross my legs.
It has been a year since I started actively pursuing weight loss. I am walking on a regular basis. I stopped drinking beer. I started consuming more fruits and vegetables. Sounds idyllic, but there are aspects of myself that I really need to work on if I want to rid myself of the excess weight. I need to organize my thoughts and communicate them clear and concisely. I need to have a work ethic by designating a particular time of day to write or to read, and not watching television. I need to watch less television. I need to get to the gym five days a week for the cardio dance classes.
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