I’m a sucker for Mediterranean and middle eastern flavours. Maybe it’s because my mom was born in Jerusalem and I visit Israel often and die over the food there every time I go. Maybe it’s because I have many Persian friends who are constantly showering me with their delicious creations. Or maybe it’s just because things like dates, honey, tahini, rose water, and the vast array of spices utilized in eastern cuisine are insanely delicious AND incredibly good for you...
Read moreSpiced Pear Zinger
Once you’ve tried this festively fun sipper, you won’t believe that it’s actually pretty good for you! But with a combination of anti-inflammatory and blood-sugar regulating spices, probiotic-rich kombucha, and digestive stimulating bitters, you’ve got yourself one pretty decent holiday cocktail that won’t leave your body feeling like a pile of garbage...
Read moreButter Pecan Bars
Here’s a holiday treat that is safe for the GF folks in your life (you might be included in this), but so yummy the non-GF people won’t mind…or even notice! No, they’re not dairy-free if that’s a concern for you, and yes, there’s a hefty serving of sweeteners like coconut palm sugar and maple syrup terrible for blood sugar control, but as long as you’re using quality ingredients, and only having a small piece, the harm is arguably minimal. And in all honestly, if you can avoid the refined sugar, refined flour, chemical-laden, shit-storm that consumes so many people’s lives at this time of year, you’re doing alright in my books...
Read moreCranberry Kombucha Shrub
Whether used for their singular medicinal values, or as a way to prep the body pre-meal and then soothe the gut post-feast, there are a number of ways boozy libations can be a benefit to your health. Take shrubs for example! While you certainly can enjoy a zero-proof shrub, traditionally these vinegar-based beverages were consumed with a touch of spirit right before a meal to stimulate stomach acid production and enzyme secretion...
Read moreBone Broth Farro Pilaf with Turmeric, Cardamom, Tahini, Black Currents, and Pistachio
If you’ve never cooked your grains with bone broth instead of plain-old water before, it’s time to start. Not only does is leave your dish with an incredibly rich flavour, but it also adds in all the goodness of this nourishing wonder elixir. Restorative collagen, essential minerals, and regenerative amino-acids turn a so-so side into a nutritional powerhouse...
Read moreHealthier Hamantaschen (Gluten-free, dairy-free, refined sugar-free)
Purim is one of my favorite Jewish holidays (and there are so many to choose from). You get dressed up, get wine-drunk, and tell stories about how a very oppressed group of people were saved buy a smart, courageous and beautiful woman named Esther. Talk about girl-power! But one of the tastiest elements of this celebration are also not very kind to the body. Hamantaschen represent the 3-pointed hat pf the evil oppressor, Haman, who wanted to completely obliterate the Jewish people (a plan that was foiled by the above mentioned Queen Esther). They’re usually made from white flour, vegetable oil, sickly sweet jams, and lots of refined sugar. But, as you’re already well aware, one of my missions is to find healthier alternatives to traditional treats and comfort-food faves...
Read moreSuperfood Chocolate Bark
I often get overwhelmed during the holidays by all the materialism. I absolutely LOVE giving gifts, but struggle with the insane amount of money spent, and goods wasted, when we should really be focusing on cultivating quality time with family and friends, and bestowing each other with goodness that comes from the heart. For me, nothing comes from the heart more than home-cooked nutrient-dense treats, like this chocolate bark...
Read moreSatsuma Ginger Molasses Cookies
Forever in search of the perfect chewy ginger cookie recipe, I was constantly experimenting with flavours and ingredient ratios. Until I made these little gems thanks to an over abundance of satsumas in my kitchen during the holiday season. The subtle orange hint adds both moisture and zing, perfectly complimented by the hit of fresh ginger – a must in my opinion when making ginger molasses cookies...
Read moreGrain-Free Fruitcake with Cashew "Creamcheese" Icing
Fruit cake has garnered itself a bad rap. Often dry, overly sweet, and altogether odd, fruit cake is the dreaded gift of the holiday season. But what if I told you it didn’t have to be that way? What if there was a fruit cake that was moist, delicious, and super healthy?? Free of grains, sugar, dairy, and eggs, this badboy is a surefire hit. In fact, it’s so good, you’ll find yourself serving it to friends and family all year long...
Read moreMaple-Date Candied Carrots
I absolutely love carrots! They’re rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Vitamin B8, pantothenic acid, folate, potassium, iron, copper, and manganese, and have been linked to the prevention and suppression of heart disease, high blood pressure, cancer, macular degeneration, stroke and diabetes. They’re also massive immune boosters, and can improve digestive health...
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