Buffalo Cauliflower Bites with Cashew Dill Dipping Sauce

Sometimes, it can be a daunting proposition to make healthier versions of traditional
American bar food. This Buffalo Cauliflower Bites with Cashew Dill Dipping Sauce recipe nails the same flavor and crazy crunch appeal of the old-school meat-based version—with a lot fewer calories and way less fat.

Cauliflower is full of Vitamin K, which improves calcium absorption
and overall bone strength. Whether it’s a karaoke contest, game night, or a birthday party—
this recipe is a finger-lickin’ people pleaser through and through.

Serves 2

Buffalo Cauliflower Bites:

1 teaspoon organic virgin coconut oil
1 cup coconut milk
1 cup gluten-free chickpea flour
1 large head cauliflower, broken
into medium-size florets
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 tablespoon garlic powder
2 teaspoons sweet paprika
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon sea salt
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil,
plus more for the baking dish
2 teaspoons maple syrup
2 tablespoons filtered water, plus
more if needed to thin
2 teaspoons arrowroot powder
4 stalks celery, cut into sticks,
reserved for plating

Cashew Dill Sauce:
1 1/4 cups raw cashews, soaked for
1 hour
1/2 cup filtered water
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar
2 teaspoons nutritional yeast
1 teaspoon dried dill
3/4 teaspoon sea salt

To make the Buffalo Cauliflower Bites: preheat the oven
to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly oil a baking sheet with
coconut oil. Whisk together the coconut milk and flour until
well combined. Dunk the individual cauliflower florets into the
flour mixture, transfer to the oiled baking sheet, and bake for
20 minutes.

Combine the apple cider vinegar, spices, olive oil, and
maple syrup in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer, then
reduce heat to medium low and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, or until
the mixture starts to thicken. Whisk in the water and arrowroot
powder. Simmer for an additional 1 to 2 minutes and then
remove from the heat. Add additional water to thin as needed.

Coat cauliflower florets with the sauce mixture and bake
for an additional 8 minutes.

To make the Cashew Dill Sauce: blend all ingredients in a
high-speed blender for 30 seconds until very smooth and
creamy. If need be, scrape down the sides of the blender carafe
with a spatula and blend again. Serve immediately with the
Buffalo Cauliflower Bites and garnish with fresh celery sticks.

Jason Wrobel

Vegan chef and wellness expert Jason Wrobel offers up a comprehensive recipe and lifestyle book with practical tips for creating drool-worthy dishes with specific nutritional benefits. In Eaternity, Jason explains which foods contain active ingredients to support health and longevity. hayhouse.com

The post Buffalo Cauliflower Bites appeared first on LA Yoga Magazine - Ayurveda & Health.

The pursuit of happiness will take you down many roads, through many relationships, jobs, and life situations. However, we all know the feeling of being surrounded by material objects, people, and experiences that we at one time desired—only to feel isolation, disconnection, and a deep sense of longing.

I know this feeling firsthand, and I can tell you that my struggle with clinical depression and daily mood swings were directly related to my lack of self-love, my inability to deal with negative emotions, and, most significantly, a few key nutritional deficiencies that threw my brain chemistry out of balance.

In addition to learning new emotional healing tools, a gentle shift in my diet and optimizing my nutrition had tangible benefits for my mood and overall level of contentment. Before I made these changes, I could feel that something was definitely “off,” but I was too ashamed to ask for support. I thought I had to struggle with it alone and didn’t want to burden anyone with my pain.

As I dove into the research to look at the scope of depression in the U.S., I found I was definitely not alone in my struggle:

• 14.8 million American adults (about 6.7 percent of the U.S. population) ages 18 and older suffer from depression.
• One in ten U.S. adults takes a pharmaceutical antidepressant medication.
• Depression affects one in four American women in their 40s and 50s.

Now, looking at those statistics, you may be thinking, Wow, I didn’t know it was THAT big of a problem! But, if we’re honest about it, mood swings and depressive states can strike us all . . . and for some of us, quite often. All it takes is one more domino to send the whole stack crashing down: your paycheck was late, the line at the DMV was way too long, or the distracted barista at Starbucks accidentally made your triple latte with whole milk when you specifically told her you wanted coconut milk. And then what happens? You fly off the handle like a frothing junkyard dog and act like it’s the end of the freakin’ world. Can you relate? I sure can. I’ve had plenty of those little irritating moments that feel like apocalyptic crises when in reality, they are just mirrors for something deeper inside of us that wants to be understood and healed.

Good Foods for Good Moods

If you’ve been feeling crappy, it’s time to take a good look at your food choices to see how they are affecting your state of being. Are you craving a lot of sweets or starches? If your blood sugar is on a roller-coaster ride from eating too much processed sugar, refined carbohydrates, and artificial ingredients, you are more likely to feel imbalanced and cranky. You’ll also feel off balance if you’ve started a super-restrictive crash diet; your GI tract will be in distress with intense hunger pangs.

Keeping your blood sugar steady and your GI tract running smoothly will do wonders for your overall health and moods.

Take a good look at your food choices to see how they are affecting your state of being. Keeping your blood sugar steady and your GI tract running smoothly will do wonders for your overall health and moods. Plus, the key nutrients you get in certain foods can influence your brain’s levels of feel-good neurotransmitters such as serotonin, GABA, and dopamine. Other critical nutrients can help prevent inflammation in your body so that your blood circulates well to all of your organs.

Grilled Asparagus Sandwich with Vegan Hollandaise Sauce Recipe

Serves 4

This recipe is all about the juxtaposition of textures. The chewy, woodsy grilled asparagus is slathered in a tangy, light, dairy-free hollandaise sauce that creates a flavor explosion in your mouth.  If you’re prone to mood swings, asparagus is a must-have vegetable in your diet because it’s packed with folic acid. Low levels of folic acid have been linked to depression, so you want to make sure you’re getting plenty of it.

Hollandaise Sauce

1 cup cashews (soaked two hours)

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

2 heaping tablespoons nutritional yeast flakes

1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder

1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1/8 teaspoon holy basil powder

1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Asparagus Sandwich

2 tablespoons organic virgin coconut oil

1 pound asparagus spears

4 gluten-free English muffins, halved and toasted

1/2 cup diced red bell pepper

1/4 cup minced fresh parsley

1/8 cup hemp seeds

To make the hollandaise sauce: blend all sauce ingredients in a high-speed blender for 30 seconds until smooth and creamy.

Heat the coconut oil in a sauté pan and cook the asparagus spears for five to six minutes on medium heat until tender and slightly browned. Transfer to a plate.

To assemble the sandwiches: layer each English muffin with a generous amount of the asparagus spears, hollandaise sauce, red bell peppers, parsley, and hemp seeds. Serve immediately.

Eaternity by Jason Wrobel

Recipe from Eaternity (More than 150 Deliciously Easy Vegan Recipes for a Long, Healthy, Satisfied, Joyful Life!)

Buy the book here.

Jason Wrobel

Vegan chef and wellness expert Jason Wrobel offers up a comprehensive recipe and lifestyle book with practical tips for creating drool-worthy dishes with specific nutritional benefits. In Eaternity, Jason explains which foods contain active ingredients to support health and longevity. hayhouse.com

The post Eating for Happiness appeared first on LA Yoga Magazine - Ayurveda & Health.

Photos by Jeff Skeirik

“Is only yoga doing it for me?” After a decade of dedicated yoga practice, I asked myself that question. In early 2015, I hit some form of yoga burnout. Unexpectedly, I wondered, “Is yoga the whole enchilada when it comes to helping me optimize my health?” Honestly, the answer for me was “no.” I found that I needed something to augment my consistent yoga practice. For years, I had toyed around with weight training in sporadic gym session, but I had never really committed to more than 90 days of consistent workouts. This time felt different, I wanted to apply the principles of overall mind body balance to the weight bench. I was ready to commit and develop a different type of strength.

Lucky for me, I befriended an awesome trainer and lifestyle coach named Damon Valley, also an ethical vegan and healthy living advocate. We started working together in early March to increase my functional strength and core power. What I noticed was very interesting: when it came to lifting really heavy weights with exercises like the deadlift and squats – I found myself employing the same breathing techniques, mental focus, balance and core strength that I developed with my yoga practice. This took me by surprise and I was delighted to feel the positive impact of those principles in the gym.

The BIG difference I experienced with weight training was getting strong. I mean, stronger than I’ve ever been before. Being able to deadlift nearly twice my body weight strong. Doing consistent body-weight-pull-ups strong. I have been exploring a much more primal and old-school side to my physical strength. The difference in my approach to my weight training this time includes both employing the breathing and balance techniques from yoga and focusing on functional strength that can be applied in everyday life. These are movements that encourage mobility, flexibility and explosive strength for when we need to perform activities like move a couch, run across the street to catch a light, or carry heavy groceries into the house. As much as I respect the art and science of bodybuilding – my most important motivation is to be able to handle any physical challenge that life may throw at me.

In addition to being functionally strong, I’ve also felt a significant increase in my confidence and mental clarity, as a result of consistent weight training. I feel more balanced and able to deal with stress. I feel it’s the perfect primal yang exercise to compliment my serene yin practices like morning meditation and yoga. In essence, I feel that it’s helped me access more of my masculine side and bring a state of balance into my life.

With all of the extra calories I’m burning (thanks to the awesome thermogenic effect of weight training), it’s been a big adjustment to make time to plan my meals and ensure that sure my nutritional intake is both dense and balanced. Some days, with all of the energy it takes to be a successful entrepreneur, it can be really tough. I’ve found that including specific herbs and superfoods with functional benefits has made a huge difference in my energy and recovery time.

Powerful plant-based superfoods for sports performance

The plant-based protein sources I consume most frequently include vegan protein powders (my favorite is Sunwarrior Classic Plus), tempeh, lentils, legumes, nuts, quinoa, hemp seeds, chia seeds, broccoli, cauliflower, and kale.

My favorite energy-boosting foods (many of which I use in my pre-workout drink) include cordyceps mushrooms, ashwagandha, maca, guarana, ginseng, matcha green tea, coconut oil, and wheatgrass.

The best foods I’ve found for post-workout recovery are turmeric, MSM, reishi mushroom powder, and algae-based omega-3 fatty acids. These all have anti-inflammatory benefits and enhance the body’s repair processes, which are active after strenuous physical performance.

Deliciously easy protein-rich pancakes!

Pumpkin Protein Pancakes

(Gluten-free, soy-free and dairy-free)

Makes about 10 to 12 4-inch pancakes

Pancakes are always a people pleaser. These pumpkin-infused puppies are not only delicious, they’re also packed with protein thanks to the Sunwarrior blend. They are easy to make and awesome as a pre-workout snack or post-workout recovery meal. Just like that famous potato chips tagline, “I bet you can’t eat just one!”

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon ground golden flaxseed
• 2 1/2 tablespoons filtered water
• 1 1/2 cups Wholesome Chow gluten-free hi-protein pancake and baking mix
• 1 scoop Sunwarrior Classic Plus Vanilla protein
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 cup canned pumpkin
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 2 tablespoons melted virgin coconut oil (plus a little more for the pan)
• 2 tablespoons coconut palm sugar
• 1/3 cup grade B organic maple syrup (reserved for plating)
• 1/4 cup extra-fine coconut shreds

To make the flax “egg,” add ground flaxseed and water to a small dish and stir. Let rest for five minutes to thicken. In a medium bowl, mix together the gluten-free baking mix, protein powder, cinnamon, cardamom, and salt. In a smaller bowl, whisk together the pumpkin, coconut milk, flax egg, coconut oil, and coconut sugar until smooth and well combined. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and use a wooden spoon to mix well. Heat a nonstick pan with a little dollop of coconut oil. Scoop the batter onto the pan using a ¼-cup measuring scoop. Cook until bubbles form and the edges are slightly golden brown, then flip and cook a little longer. Both sides should be nicely golden brown. Repeat with remaining batter. Serve with maple syrup and coconut shreds.

Get the balance right

Maintaining balance, flexibility and strength are fundamental to any workout regimen and are keys to longevity. Hybridizing my workout routine with a good mix of weight training and yoga feels like it could be my recipe for long-term fitness. Or, maybe it’s just the pancakes. They need their props, too!

Jason Wrobel is a graduate of the Living Light Culinary Institute and has enjoyed a vegan lifestyle for nearly 20 years. As the host of How to Live to 100 on Cooking Channel, he inspired a global audience to prepare deliciously easy and satisfying plant-based recipes. His popular YouTube channel, The J-Wro Show, features hundreds of vegan recipe videos and vibrant living vlogs: jasonwrobel.com.

Jeff Skeirik is a Los Angeles based photographer: rawtographer.com.

Location: Barbell Brigade, Los Angeles, barbellbrigade.com

Shirts: Iron Buddha 1979, ironbuddha1979.com

Jason Wrobel

Vegan chef and wellness expert Jason Wrobel offers up a comprehensive recipe and lifestyle book with practical tips for creating drool-worthy dishes with specific nutritional benefits. In Eaternity, Jason explains which foods contain active ingredients to support health and longevity. hayhouse.com

The post The YOGA of Weight Training appeared first on LA Yoga Magazine - Ayurveda & Health.

After I became a professional plant-based chef nine years ago, one of my greatest joys was to seek out and experiment with new foods. I have experimented with Ayurvedic herbs to assist with physical recovery after intense workouts, increase my immunity, boost my libido, and enjoy more restful sleep.

As a yoga practitioner since 2006, I am consistently looking for foods and supplements that can support my practice—be it enhanced mental clarity during meditation or quicker rejuvenation after physically challenging classes. It’s been a fun, interesting, and educational process to learn how to integrate Ayurvedic herbs and foods into my existing recipes and to develop dishes with specific functional benefits.

Using Ayurvedic Herbs and Superfoods

Combining Ayurvedic herbs and spices with plant-based superfoods can balance your doshas (the energetics of the body), increase energy levels, boost the immune system, and promote healthy digestion. With protein-rich and antioxidant-dense superfoods such as hemp seeds, chia seeds, and goji berries, you can easily integrate these wonder foods into your recipes with key Ayurvedic herbs to accomplish physical goals and meet your daily nutritional needs.

For example, adding fresh pineapple, turmeric root, and hemp seeds to your morning smoothie increases nutrient density while pumping up the anti-inflammatory benefits. Simply add a healthy dose of ashwaganda, holy basil, and chia seeds to your next salad dressing or favorite sauce to increase your energy, immunity, and mental clarity.

It’s actually quite easy to add Ayurvedic herbs to your recipes, especially when you obtain them in the form of cold-extracted powders or pre-ground, dried varietals. In those forms, add a small amount of an herb to your recipe and then adjust for potency and flavor profile. The dynamic color palettes and flavors of Ayurvedic herbs act as sublime supplemental boosts in many classic Indian dishes, such as curries, daals, lassis, and chutneys.

Ayurvedic Herbal Superfoods

Ashwaganda

This is the “ginseng” of Ayurvedic medicine and is considered a true adaptogen—a term used to describe herbs and foods that improve physical energy and athletic ability under highly stressful conditions. It has the ability to increase your immunity to colds or infections and also increase sexual capacity and fertility. It’s easy to use in smoothies, savory sauces, or even cooked soups.

Holy Basil

Another potent adaptogenic herb that is a member of the mint family. It has been shown to enhance the body’s natural response to physical or emotional stress. It is also a powerful antioxidant that can improve your mental clarity. I like to have this herb during intensely stressful times in my life or when my workload is extra heavy. It’s easy to consume as a loose-leaf tea or integrated into tonic beverages or smoothies as a powder.

Turmeric Root

One of the world’s most potent anti-inflammatory foods, this richly colored, golden root is available in whole food form or as a cold-extracted powder and is easy to use in beverages, teas, and savory dishes. I like to consume turmeric after my workouts to reduce tissue and joint inflammation or during allergy season when my respiratory system is out of balance.

It’s never been easier or more beneficial to use potent, Ayurvedic herbs in your everyday recipes. With the often hectic pace of modern life and the multiple stressors encountered daily, it’s never been more important to arm yourself with these naturally adaptogenic, antioxidant-rich and nutrient-dense foods. It’s an exciting time to play with these powerful ingredients while tapping into the ancient wisdom of yoga and Ayurveda to support your life goals.

Golden Turmeric Milk Recipe

Serves 2-3 people

This drink was inspired by all of the new, natural products on the market that feature turmeric. I wanted to create something warm, nourishing, and revitalizing after my yoga practice. This Golden Turmeric Milk can be enjoyed hot or cold, depending on the season and your dosha. Served warm, it’s very grounding and feels deeply nourishing to my dry, airy vata constitution.

Ingredients

1 1/2 cups raw coconut water

1 1/2 cups full-fat coconut milk

4-inch piece fresh turmeric root, sliced

2-inch piece fresh ginger root, sliced

2 TBS bee free Honee or grade-B maple syrup

10-12 drops liquid stevia, plain flavor

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1/4 tsp ground cardamom

1/8 tsp holy basil powder

1/4 tsp ashwaganda powder

1 TBS raw coconut oil

1/2 tsp cold-extracted turmeric powder

Preparation:

In a medium saucepan, bring all ingredients to a rolling boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for five to 10 minutes. Whisk vigorously a few times while simmering. Remove from heat and cover with a lid for another five minutes. Place a fine mesh strainer over a blender carafe and pour in the liquid, straining out the large chunks of ginger and turmeric root. Blend the milk for 30 seconds on high speed until frothy and well combined. Serve hot in a mug or chill in the refrigerator in a glass container. Shake well before serving or reheating.

Celebrity vegan and raw food chef Jason Wrobel (aka J-Wro) is the host of the plant-based cooking series, How To Live to 100, on Cooking Channel. The healing properties and outrageous tastes of his dishes have rendered his recipes favorites among celebrity clients and regular folk alike. Jason also hosts the popular YouTube channel The J-Wro Show®. His DVD, Simple Vegan Classics, has taught thousands of people how to prepare easy and nutritious raw foods at home. Jason will release a new recipe & lifestyle book with Hay House in 2015. 

Jason Wrobel

Vegan chef and wellness expert Jason Wrobel offers up a comprehensive recipe and lifestyle book with practical tips for creating drool-worthy dishes with specific nutritional benefits. In Eaternity, Jason explains which foods contain active ingredients to support health and longevity. hayhouse.com

The post Superfood, Spice, and Everything Nice appeared first on LA Yoga Magazine - Ayurveda & Health.