Red Lentil Doshas (Savory Indian Crepes)

Doshas are a popular dish in South India. They are traditionally made with basmati rice and a type of legume called urad dahl. The beans and rice are soaked in water, then ground into a batter and fermented overnight. I have simplified the recipe and used red lentils, a more common legume, which is readily…

Tofu Scramble

This is one of my favorite tofu dishes. I often prepare this at home for breakfast or brunch. It’s a great alternative to scrambled eggs. People really enjoy it! Ingredients 1 (14–16-ounce) block extra-firm tofu 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (or your favorite cooking oil) ½ teaspoon turmeric 1 cup chopped onions ½ cup diced…

Chickpeas & Kale with Spicy Peanut Sauce

I have often shied away from using legumes that require overnight soaking and hours of cooking–though I do believe this is a healthier choice than canned legumes (beans). I like to provide ways to save time when creating my recipes, but this time I decided to use dry chickpeas as they are on sale this…

Chickpea Flour-Kale Bites

Another chickpea flour-inspired recipe! This is a variation of an Indian dish known as kothimbir vadi–a popular Maharashtrian street food. Years ago I used to make this dish during my ashram days–a time when I experimented with quite a few traditional Indian creations. I had forgotten about this recipe until recently. I’ve been enjoying showing…

Tofu Salad

This is my rendition of  tofu salad. It looks and tastes like egg salad, but it’s vegan. In the warm weather I like to create dishes that don’t require cooking. Tofu is rather bland, so I have really seasoned it up. I served it out at work this weekend for the first time and received great responses….

Kichari: Lentil & Brown Rice Stew

This is a variation of my Indian Kichari recipe. Ingredients 1 cup lentils, rinsed and drained ½ cup brown rice, rinsed and drained Water 2 vegetable bouillon cubes (or to taste) 1–2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger 2 teaspoons curry powder ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder ¼ teaspoon cinnamon powder 2–3 cups chopped vegetables (carrots, yams, potatoes,…

Curried Sweet Potato and Black Bean Soup

It’s autumn time! With the change of seasons, I am once again inspired to bring out my fall-inspired recipes. The combination of sweet potatoes, quinoa, and black beans creates a nice, filling soup. Ingredients: 6 cups water 1 (13–14-ounce) can coconut milk ½ cup quinoa, rinsed and drained 3 vegetable bouillon cubes (or to taste)…

Frittata

This is my vegan version of frittata. I’ve always loved quiche, so decided to experiment with a frittata recipe, which is like a crustless quiche. I was pleased with the results. For a thicker frittata, double the recipe. Ingredients 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 2 cups chopped or very thinly sliced onions 1 cup finely…

Split Pea Soup

Split pea soup is often prepared with ham or other types of meat; this adds flavor to the dish. I’ve added a few seasonings to give the soup a depth of flavor (without the meat). Customers really enjoyed this recipe, as simple as it is. Kids too! Ingredients 1 cup split peas, rinsed and drained Water…

Indian Kichari (Mung Bean & Brown Rice Stew)

Kichari is a very popular Indian dish. It is a great one-pot meal made with legumes, whole grains and assorted veggies. Mung beans are well-known in India and are touted for their health benefits (see below). I always get great responses when I prepare this dish. It is so healthy and hearty–and great for cold-weather…

Curried Red Lentil Soup

Red lentil soup is a staple in my home. We love it! I have always prepared it “Indian-style” with curry and other common Indian spices. It is a wonderful way to enjoy lentils. Lentils are high in fiber, and worth adding to your healthy diet. Every time I make this at work, or variations of this…

Health Benefits of Turmeric

The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin. Turmeric has been used for over 2500 years in India. The medicinal properties of this spice have been slowly revealing themselves over the centuries. Long known for its anti-inflammatory properties, recent research has revealed that turmeric is a natural wonder, proving beneficial in the treatment of many different health…