"Laughing in the Park" Commissioned Portrait by Juliane Porter (16" x 20" Oil on archival quality, gallery wrapped canvas. Click image for better, larger view!)
"Laughing in the Park" is my latest commissioned portrait of a beautiful young brother and sister. I had a blast painting this carefree and playful pair. Can't you feel the bond between them?!
While painting, I was reminded of a favorite Emily Dickinson poem, There is Another Sky, which she wrote for her beloved older brother.
There is Another Sky
There is another sky, Ever serene and fair, And there is another sunshine, Though it be darkness there; Never mind faded forests, Austin, Never mind silent fields - Here is a little forest, Whose leaf is ever green; Here is a brighter garden, Where not a frost has been; In its unfading flowers I hear the bright bee hum: Prithee, my brother, Into my garden come!
Cauliflower Popcorn is loaded with all the flavor of your favorite snack chips and pop-ems with none of the downside!
Cauliflower Popcorn is so addictive I challenge you to make it so far as to get yours into the dehydrator(or oven) for step 2... without eating it all first!
This flavorful,smoky, cheesy, salty-sweet indulgence tastes phenomenal tossed up fresh... however, an hour or two in the dehydrator (or oven- see below) renders it crispy and warm with its tantalizing aromas wafting throughout the kitchen so do try to hold out! This raw food yumminess is brimming with powerful life-force, enzymes, phytonutrients and vitamins galore. It's a snack that makes us feel as phenomenal as it tastes! Whenever I eat Raw Snacks I feel satiated, energized and just plain fantastic. Cauliflower Popcorn is no exception! Loaded with all the flavor of our favorite snack chips and tidbits without any of the downside... except perhaps that I couldn't hoard it all to myself once Jim had a taste. He couldn't get enough and rates it...
"Outstanding!"
The Benefits (and this is just a few mind you!)
Fights Cancer - Cauliflower contains sulforaphane, a sufur compound proven to kill cancer stem cells thus slowing tumor growth, and to inhibit the growth of cultured breast cancer cells leading to cell death. Moreover, research shows, cauliflower with curcumin (the active compound in the turmeric in this recipe) may help prevent & treat prostrate cancer. Additionally, the Indoles and isothiocyanates in cauliflower have been shown to potentially inhibit cancer development of the bladder, breast, colon, liver, lung and stomach according to the National Cancer Institute.
Boosts Heart Health - The sulforaphane in cauliflower has been shown to significantly improve blood pressure and kidney function. These benefits are related to improved DNA methylation, a process crucial for normal cellular function and gene expression especially in the easily damaged inner lining of the arteries.
Supports Detoxification - Cauliflower supports Phase 1 detoxification via certain antioxidants and Phase 2 detoxification via it's sulfur-containing nutrients while the glucosinolates in cauliflower activate detoxification enzymes in the liver.
Anti-Inflammatory - Excessive inflammatory response when no threat is present can lead to inflammation-related damage in the body linked to many diseases including cancer depending on the organs impacted. Cauliflower's wealth of anti-inflammatory nutrients keep inflammation in check.
Rejuvenates Skin Hair & Nails - As you know by now, consuming a variety of veggies & fruits is important in order to receive all their valuable vitamins and minerals. Cauliflower specifically, contains Vitamins A, E, C & K as well as B vitamins, folate, sodium, potassium, calcium, manganese, zinc, fats, niacin, copper and iron. The biotin in cauliflower has been found to control dandruf and thicken nails. The plethora of antioxidants such as vitamin C in cauliflower destroy free radicals that accelerate the signs of aging. Additionally, the Vitamin C is required for growth & repair of tissues in all parts of the body including the formation of collagen in addition to making skin, scar tissue, tendons, ligaments and blood vessels.
Boosts Digestion - That good old aforementioned sulforaphane has been shown to protect the lining of the stomach by preventing bacterial overgrowth of Helicobacter pylori. Additionally, cauliflower provides an great source of dietary fiber which is also crucial for digestive health.
Antioxidants & Phytonutrients Galore - Cauliflower is packed with tons of Vitamin C, beta-carotene and antioxidants like quercetin and cinnamic acid which provide cells adequate defense against attack from reqctive oxygen species or ROS. A proper supply of antioxidants helps banish free radicals enabling the body to resist aging caused by everyday pollutants, stress and more.
Boosts Brain Health - Cauliflowers abundant supply of choline is a B vitamin crucial in brain development. Choline intake during pregnancy "super-charges" the brain activity of animals in utero indicating it may boost cognitive function, prevent age-related memory decline, and improve memory & learning.
Overall Raw Foods Power - Nutrient dense, whole, plant-based foods that haven't been heated above 118 F retain their full nutritional value preserving all their naturally occuring living enzymes. Additionally, raw foods are still filled with vital life energy - the magic of life force, also known as chi or prana. I personally integrate a large portion of raw foods into my diet, finding at the moment as the weather is cooling, a proportion of 80% raw to 20% cooked is working best for me. In the heat of summer, I find myself eating close to 100% raw foods - though someday this too may change - and of course you'll be the first to know :) Not only are we each unique with personalized needs, what works for us now may not be what works best for us a year or 5 or 10 years down the line. We always want to pay attention to the signals our bodies are providing in response to the changing seasons, our environment, habits, history, genetic predisposition etc.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
I've been wanting to make a raw food version of this snack favorite which is, more typically, roasted in the oven. As you can tell, the results are beyond amazing! Please enjoy this fantastic treat and leave your thoughts in the comments below!
Recipe for Cauliflower Popcorn
Ingredients
1 head cauliflower separated into 2 x larger than popcorn pieces (they'll shrink in the dehydrator)
Shake everything up in a large ziplock bag until all the pieces are thoroughly coated.
Spread out on a couple of teflex sheet covered dehydrator trays and dehydrate* at 135F for 1 hour (don't worry, the food is throwing off heat at this point & the internal temp remains under 115) and turn down to 115F for another hour or two until the mixture has dried and the popcorn is slightly crispy.
*Alternatively, if you don't yet have a dehydrator, spread mixture on a silpat or parchment covered baking sheet, place in oven on lowest setting with door propped open an inch or two. Check on the popcorn often as the oven will still likely be much hotter than 135F & 115F and, therefore, the process will be much faster.
Enjoy!
Do you have a favorite "traditional" recipe you'd like upgraded into a beautiful Vegan or Raw Vegan version? Share it below for a chance to have me recreate it for you!
A delicious jar of flavanoid and probiotic rich Kimchi!
I've been super excited to share my method for Sauerkraut, and even better in my humble opinion, KIMCHI, for quite some time... the day has finally arrived!
Personally, I consider Kimchi to be Sauerkraut's amped-up cousin. My methods for making the two are exactly the same with kimchi simply requiring a few additional veggies & spices to provide its gorgeous color and kick of hot, spicy flavor. In fact, I was fascinated to learn both Sauerkraut and Kimchi are Asian in origin. Although sauerkraut, German for "sour cabbage", is thought of as a German invention, Chinese laborers building the Great Wall over 2,000 years ago ate it regularly and it was likely brought to Europe 1000 years later by Gengis Kahn.
Kimchi - and Sauerkraut too - is low in calories, helps boost metabolism, and contains immune and digestion boosting probiotics of the order of 1000 times that of yogurt! And, the longer it ferments, the greater the health benefits become. In previous articles I've discussed the important benefits of excellent Digestion, Proper Food Combining, and a Detoxification lifestyle so we're aware of the amazing affect probiotics have on our skin, digestion and health overall. In fact, by incorporating probiotic rich foods on a daily basis such as apple cider vinegar, kimchi and sauerkraut, it's actually possible to reverse poor gut health (aka leaky gut) due to unhealthy diet, illness, or antibiotic use. While there isn't any strict amount of the foods to take daily, the more we eat, the quicker the gut will mend, as these are all boasting prebiotics, probiotics and other compounds that encourage healthy immune and gastrointestinal systems. Let's look a bit closer at why, via the benefits of Kimchi (most of which are shared by sauerkraut as well).
Kimchi is a storehouse of vitamins including A, B1, B2 and C as well as being rich in essential amino acids and minerals such as iron, calcium, selenium. It boasts an impressive array of powerful antioxidants and provides the aforementioned benefit of probiotics in the form of lactobacillus bacteria. Kimchi contains numerous healthful components including capsaicin, chlorophyll, carotenoids, flavonoids and isothiocyanates.
Kimchi is an excellent food to promote digestion. Its probiotics, produced during the fermentation of Kimchi, not only enhance the flavor but create the healthy bacteria, Lactobacillus, which is required by the body to maintain a healthy state of intestinal flora. The organic acid, lactobacilli, and lactic acid produced during fermentation suppress harmful bacteria and stimulate beneficial bacteria, prevent constipation, clean intestines and prevent colon cancer.
Even prior to fermentation, the cabbage base in Kimchi is well known for its detoxification qualities and ability to aid the body in getting rid of wastes and toxins. It helps in cleaning up the intestines, stimulating better assimilation of nutrients in the body.
Cancer: Cabbage contains healthful flavanoids which are known to inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Additionally glucosinolates found in cabbage break down to form isothiocyanates which are well known for their effectiveness against cancer growth. Capsaicin, contained in the red chili pepper of Kimchi, helps reduce the chance of developing lung cancer. Allicin, a chemical contained in garlic, assists to reduce the chance of developing stomach, thyroid and liver cancer. Indole-3-Carbinol contained in cabbage helps reduce the chance of developing stomach cancer.
Garlic and hot red chili pepper in Kimchi kill bacteria that cause gastritis, such as Helicobacter Pylori.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
While I do personally eat Kimchi or Sauerkraut almost daily, it's wise to start off with a small amount as any fermented food is highly detoxifying and a "die-off affect" can contribute even further to the toxic burden released. We never want to overwhelm our immune systems by detoxifying too fast, so it's important to implement changes and additions/subtractions to our lifestyle gradually and listen to our body along the way. That said, adding just a small amount of this exotic condiment can simply transform the flavor of anything from salads, sandwiches, wraps, tacos, rice, to a minestrone soup or a bowl of lentils... endlessly yummy applications!
Recipe for Sauerkraut(makes 1/2 gallon) Ingredients
2 green cabbages
2 T sea salt
Method
Grind the cabbage (red or green) in a food processor or chop it fine with a knife by hand.
Once the cabbage is ground, add the salt and mix it all together well.
Use a wooden dowel (I use the end of a French handle-free rolling pin) to pound the cabbage and salt which brings out the juices.
Once the juices are flowing, pack tightly using a wooden dowel or clean fist to pack tightly into a 1/2 gallon jar all the way to the top.
When the kraut is close to filling the jar, the juices should be covering the top of the kraut. It is key that the kraut is under the cabbage juices because culturing sauerkraut is due to an anaerobic (without oxygen) reaction rather than an aerobic (with oxygen) reaction.
Place the lid on the jar not too tightly so that as it cultures, the excess juices can escape (otherwise your jar might explode). Place the jar in a pan that can catch the overflow juices.
Cover the jar with a towel to keep it dark and let sit at room temperature for one week.
After a week has past, there may be a bit of discoloration on the top of the kraut if all the juices overflowed out. If so, just scrape off the top and keep the lower layers.**
Now you can refrigerate the jar or repack the kraut into smaller jars to store. We store our sauerkraut in the fridge, but it keeps in this form for months and months.
Recipe for Spicy Kimchi
Ingredients
1 green cabbage
1 chinese cabbage
2 large bunches of radishes
4 carrots
1/2 thumb size hunk ginger
4 scallions
2 cloves garlic
1 1/2 Tbsp chili powder
1 tsp cayenne pepper
2 Tbsp sea salt
Method
Chop all the veggies according to your preference - I like to chop the cabbage & scallions coarsly for the Kimchi - mix in the spices & salt and follow the method above.
** If you're a newbie looking for a more "fool-proof" method I recommend the Perfect Pickler which has a little vacuum seal on the top to seal out air & induce a naturally pro-biotic world. It self-pressurizes to lock out airborne microbes. I have one and I found it worked great.
Have you ever made (or considered making) your own sauerkraut?
I am not a healthcare practitioner or provider. To the extent that any information is provided through this website, it is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute or substitute for medical advice or counseling, the practice of medicine including but not limited to psychiatry, psychology, psychotherapy or the provision of health care diagnosis or treatment, the creation of a physician-patient or clinical relationship, or an endorsement, a recommendation or a sponsorship of any third party, product or service by me. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements available on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Ihave a simple yet powerful health practice for super white teeth & healthy pink gums. In fact, according to ancient Ayurvedic medicine, my daily ritual provides not only complete oral health, it can assist the body in healing at the root of a great many overall bodily issues. My little secret to a beautiful smile and potentially much more is called Oil Pulling.
The Ayurvedic technique of Oil Pulling has been practiced for centuries. It consists of the simple practice of slowly swishing a spoonful of cold-pressed oil (coconut -my fav, sesame, or sunflower oil)around the mouth on an empty stomach for about 20 minutes and then spitting it out. I do this every morning while showering and getting dressed, followed by a gargle with salt water. I was instantly hooked after my first try, during which I'd swished for a marathon 30 minutes, and found my teeth so much whiter after just one session I couldn't believe my eyes. As I continued for the next few weeks, I noticed the bit of recession I'd had around a few lower teeth where there was a greater tendency for plaque between cleanings, was completely dissapearing. Soon, the plaque was gone and the recession had completel reversed! Now, all my teeth are whiter than they've ever been (and that includes, before I knew better, when I'd used bleaching trays from the dentist which made my teeth hurt and my gums turn white while doing who knows what to my enamel) and all my teeth have pink, healthy little gumline 'turtlenecks' around them with no more 'cowl necks' forming around those few on the lower left!
While whiter, healthier teeth, pinker gums and a pristine oral cavity are hugely worthwhile in themselves (oral health being linked to the health of all the various parts of the body - the most well known of which being heart health) the potential health benefits don't stop there. Let's delve into a little more detail on the history, these additional potential benefits and how the practice works.
History
As mentioned, the therapy of Oil Pulling from traditional Indian Ayurvedic medicine dates back 3000 years. Ancient Ayurvedic texts discuss oil pulling as a tool for detoxification of the entire body claiming it can be a cure for a wide variety of diseases. While there aren't scientific studies to support such benefits beyond the oral cavity, there are many individuals who claim to have reaped miraculous results beyond just the mouth. Orally, however, scientific studies do show that the practice helps strengthen teeth (including fastening loose teeth), jaws and gums, prevents decay and bleeding gums and combats gigivitis, plaque and microorganisms that cause bad breath. Results are shown to be especially pronounced if coconut oil is used as it's a powerful destroyer of all kinds of harmful microbes, from viruses to bacteria to protozoa.
How it works & Benefits to the mouth and beyond
Most microorganisms inhabiting the mouth consist of a single cell. Cells are surrounded by a lipid or fatty membrane. When these cells make contact with the oil, also a fat, they naturally adhere to one another, thereby, trapping the lipid coated pathogens in the oil which are eventually spit out. Additionally, research has shown that the enzymes in the saliva, which mix with the oil in the process of swishing, increase the ability of coconut oil in particular, to inhibit the growth of most strains of Streptococcus bacteria, including the bacterium that is a major cause of tooth decay.(2) Enzyme-modified coconut oil has also shown to be harmful to the yeast Candida albicans. I've personally experimented with both sesame and coconut oil and, while both yielded results, I found the results from coconut oil more pronounced. That said, Ayurvedic medicine and the researchers at OilPulling.com advocate use of sesame oil over coconut oil. The following is an excerpt from OilPulling.com on the relationship between oral disease and systemic disease:
"Scientists at the 87th General Session of the International Association for Dental Research, reported new studies connecting oral diseases with systemic diseases. A recurring theme is the relationship between periodontal (gum) disease and infant prematurity, diabetes, or stroke.
The Mouth is known to have numerous bacteria. Usually we can keep these bacteria under control with good oral care, via brushing and other healthy routine activities. Saliva is a key defense mechanism against bacteria and viruses. It contains enzymes that destroy bacteria in different ways. But harmful bacteria can at times grow out of control and lead to serious gum infection. Sometimes the first sign of a disease shows up in the mouth. In other cases, infections in the mouth, such as gum disease, can cause problems in other parts of the body. Conditions of the mouth can show signs of nutritional deficiencies or general infection (related to other parts of the body). For example, systemic diseases, which affect the entire body, such as diabetes, AIDS and cancer, may first become apparent because of a mouth injury or other oral problems.
When the gums are healthy, bacteria in the mouth usually don't enter the bloodstream. However, when there prevails gum disease bacteria many enter into the bloodstream by one of the two ways. Firstly, through aggressive dental treatments. Secondly, through treatments that reduce saliva flow or disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in the mouth which also may lead to oral changes, making it easier for bacteria to enter the bloodstream." (1)
The potential of this healing system in which oil is swirled back and forth in the mouth, is due the stimulating effect it has on the body's eliminatory system. It is said that it's possible to heal individual cells, cell conglomerates such as lymph nodes, and more complex tissues such as internal organs simultaneously. According to OilPulling.com, this occurs because the beneficial microflora throughout the body are provided with a healthy continuum, in the absence of which the usual pattern of human health tends to lean toward illness rather than wellness. Dr. Karach, of OilPulling.com, feels that regularly reversing this process so that wellness is the dominant state of the body, would likely increase the average human lifespan dramatically. Additionally, he states, "This cleansing of the mouth and tongue is the basis for the next phase of the therapeutic process. If you have studied acupuncture you may be aware of the many points on acupuncture meridians that become congested and blocked from food, bacteria and environmental toxins which our bodies absorb. The tongue is very important to the function of most of the organs and biochemical reactions taking place in the body. It is my theory that by removing the toxins and various microbes from the tongue we free the congestion and blockages from the important meridian pathways that interconnect our many organs."
Method
First thing in the morning on an empty stomach before drinking any water, pour a spoonful of cold-pressed oil (sunflower, sesame or coconut -my fav) into your mouth. Swish the oil slowly around, without swallowing it, moving it through your teeth and using your tongue to help move the liquid around (however, don't gargle with it). As you swish, you'll notice the volume of the oil expands and becomes thinner as your saliva combines with it. If your jaw muscles get too tired, you've used too much oil and you'll know to use less the next time. It's a very simple process with no right or wrong way to swish and pull the oil. Just be natural and gentle for about 20 minutes. Avoid spitting the oil out into the sink as coconut oil, for example, becomes solid below 76F and will clog your sink. Additionally, the oil will be teaming with harmful bacteria and toxic bodily waste that you don't want in your sink. For example, if this liquid were magnified 600 times under a microscope one would be able to see microbes in their first stage of development! Twenty minutes is a general rule of thumb however you can experiment with how long you proceed. After spitting the oil out, rinse the mouth with warm salt water as a helpful antimicrobial and to soothe any inflammation as well as to rinse away any remaining toxins which may be left out in the mouth. Lastly, brush your teeth.
Important Tips
Don't swallow the oil as it's full of toxins.
Don't spit into the sink if using coconut oil as it can clog the sink.
Rinse with salt or baking soda water after.
Don't use an oil you may be allergic to.
Do your own research and proceed at your own risk.
Start slowly to ensure less risk. For example, swish for 5 minutes at first then build up to a longer period of time. Perhaps start by oil pulling just once a week, and so on. Sesame oil has been found to be less detoxifying than coconut oil, and may be a safer oil with which to start.
Understand that to achieve dramatic results, say beyond oral benefits, the practice may need to be adhered to for a long period of time.
Each person will have different results as the symptoms we seek to alleviate are caused by infinitely different roots which oil pulling may or may not be able to remedy.
See the below resources for in depth white paper details on the science, FAQ's, personal testimonies and more.
Sooo, that's Oil Pulling in a nutshell! An ancient trick I was thrilled to find works wonders on my own teeth and gums. Oh, and one last tip, it's ok to oil pull more than once a day - even three times a day to achieve even more remarkable results - just be sure to do it a few hours after each meal to be certain of an empty stomach for optimum affect. Apparently, however, even if one doesn't adhere to the empty stomach rule, results can still be achieved. Let me know how it works for you!
Have you ever tried Oil Pulling?
Share your experiences in the comments if you decide to try it out.
I am not a healthcare practitioner or provider. To the extent that any information is provided through this website, it is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute or substitute for medical advice or counseling, the practice of medicine including but not limited to psychiatry, psychology, psychotherapy or the provision of health care diagnosis or treatment, the creation of a physician-patient or clinical relationship, or an endorsement, a recommendation or a sponsorship of any third party, product or service by me. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements available on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Raw Vegan Avocado BLT Wraps are over the top YUM! Shown here using a Collard Wrap.
Avocado BLT Wraps are so over the top delish it's insane! We're talking when I served them to my friend she couldn't believe it wasn't actual, real bacon inside! Loaded with strips of meaty, thick-cut 'bacon' brimming with smoky-sweet-salty deliciousness tucked alongside fresh, juicy heirloom tomato, buttery avocado, crisp green lettuce and a thick creamy hemp mayo - these Avocado BLT's are built to please!
Avocado BLT Wrap shown here wrapped in Raw Nori Wrap - Jim's fav!
While the best part about these dreamy Avocado BLT wraps is definitely their amazing flavor, these high-vibe living food wraps also deliver potent immune-boosting, beauty enhancing power to make our cells sing and our energy soar! Here are just a few of the fabulous gifts your body, mind and spirit will be receiving from this decadent Raw Vegan BLT Wrap...
Shiitakes:Widely referred to as "medicinal mushrooms", shiitake mushrooms are able to enhance immune function bi-directionally, giving it a boost when needed, and cutting back on its activity when needed. Shiitake mushrooms provide what researchers refer to as "anti-cancer immunity" and are able to help macrophage cells achieve an activated profile so they can do a better job clearing potentially cancerous cells by suppressing their production and multiplication due to a compound in Shitake called lentinan. They're rich in B vitamins—an excellent of pantothenic acid, a very good source of vitamin B2, and a good source of vitamin B6, niacin, choline, and folate. Shiitake are high in concentrated minerals, an excellent source of selenium and copper and a very good source of zinc. Shiitake mushrooms are also rich in highly absorbable iron which is useful in the body for improving oxygen circulation, production of blood in the bone marrow as well as healthy bones and gums.
Avocado: Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats. Provides close to 20 essential nutrients such as potassium (1 avocado has twice the potassium of a banana) which helps balance your vitally important potassium/sodium ratio.
Tomato: Excellent source of antioxidants such as lycopene, a carotenoid pigment which has recently been found to have an important connection to bone health. Tomato extracts have been shown to help prevent unwanted clumping together of platelet cells in the blood, a factor especially important in lowering risk of heart disease like atherosclerosis. High in Vitamin C (33% RDA per serving) & Biotin (24% per serving).
Nori: The seaweed that wraps sushi and our BLT Wraps! Nori is very rich in protein containing between 1-2 grams of protein per 2 gram serving making it the world's richest source comparable in density to spirulina, chlorella and soybeans. Nori is high in fiber, comprised of approximately 33% fiber. It's also high in iron, with 100 grams containing 88% of our daily value. Nori improves bone health as 100 grams of nori contains 28% of our RDI of calcium and 85% of our RDI of magnesium. Sea vegetables such as Nori are the plant world's premier source of iodine which is crucial to thyroid health and a multitude of bodily functions. 100 grams of nori contains approximately 6 mg of iodine or, otherwise stated, one sushi roll wrapped in nori contains 92 mcg of iodine which is almost the full RDI. Nori also contains 288% of our vitamin A, 60% RDI of thiamine, 194% of riboflavin, 78% RDI of niacin and 475% RDI of folate.
And that's just the tip of the ice-berg baby! There will be multitudes more AMAZING miracles happening to your beautiful self as you devour these divine Avocado BLT wraps!
I love using either Nori or subbing Collard Greens for an equally delicious wrap. Collards are remarkably mild in flavor, perfectly sturdy and when all slathered up in to LIVE for thick, creamy hemp-cashew mayo and stuffed with Avocado BLT fixings... mmm mmm it's a party for our tastebuds!
Recipe for Raw Vegan Avocado BLT Wraps
(Serves 4)
Ingredients
Raw Vegan Bacon
3 cups sliced shitake mushrooms, stems removed (or sub 2 large portobello mushrooms, sliced)
2 heirloom tomatoes, sliced into long strips (not too thin not too thick we just want it to be easy to roll up)
2 avocados, sliced into long strips, or mashed w tines of a fork
green leaf lettuce
vegan bacon
hemp mayo
Method
Raw Vegan Bacon
Whisk together coconut aminos, sesame oil, sea salt, smoked paprika, and stevia. Taste to adjust seasonings.
Dump all your sliced shitakes or portobellos into a large ziplock along with the marinade. Massage carefully so as not to break the mushrooms. Marinade for 20 minutes flipping once.
Place mushrooms on a teflex sheet in your dehydrator on 145F for 1 hour, turning down to 115F for 2 more hours or longer til reach desired texture - the portobellos will take longer as they're thicker. I personally like the 'bacon' a little meatier and moister as it has that thick center cut texture that way.
Hemp Mayo
Place all the ingredients in the Vitamix and blend til thick and creamy. If you want more of a cream cheese texture, which will be less drippy in the wraps, start with less water. Conversely, use more water for a mayo texture. As always taste to adjust seasonings to your preference.
BLT Wraps
Slather rough side of each Nori sheet with a Tbsp of Hemp Mayo. If using mashed avocado rather than strips, spread the avo on first, then top with the mayo.(Alternatively use 4 collard leaves de-stemmed and halved for rolling OR for burrito fashion: remove only thickest bottom part of stem, leaving collard leaf whole to be wrapped burrito style & cut diagonally into halves after stuffing/rolling.)
Place one green leaf lettuce leaf on each wrap.
Arrange a few tomato strips, avocado strips (unless using mashed avo) & shiitake (or portobello) bacon on each wrap.
Roll up tightly into a cone shape (Temaki-style), securing with a bit of water along one edge of nori. Or, role evenly into a cylinder and feel free to slice into sushi-sized bites. (If using halved collard leaves, roll & secure with a pretty party toothpick. If using whole collard leaves, roll like a burrito, folding top and bottom edges in first then rolling up left to right and cutting in half on a diagonal which will keep everything secured- use party pics if necessary.)
Serve any remaining Hemp Mayo on the side for dipping.
Enjoy!
Do you have a favorite "traditional" recipe you'd like upgraded into a beautiful Raw Vegan version? Share below for a chance to have me recreate it for you!
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