healthy – Page 2 – The Vegan Rhino

October 31, 2018October 31, 2020

Pumpkin Spice French Macarons

French Macaron Shell

This airy and fluffy “cookie” is one of my favorite treats to indulge on. Being able to create a French macaron recipe in my own kitchen is something I have always wanted to do. So here we have my pumpkin spice French macaron filled with a pumpkin buttercream. One of the most interesting things that you will learn from this recipe (other than patience) is in the power of food alternatives. Using chickpea liquid and sugar as your meringue base really goes to show that you can still create these delicious desserts, without diary or the use of eggs. With that being said, I hope you enjoy this recipe and bon appétit!

French Macaron Merengue

Yields 36 macaroons

Ingredients

Shell:

1/2 cup concentrated aquafaba, (chickpea liquid)

3 Tbsp. fine granulated sugar

100g Vitacost almond flour

200g Vitacost powdered sugar

1 tsp. pumpkin spice

Buttercream:

3/4 cups Earth Balance Vegan Buttery Sticks, room temperature

2 1/4 cups Vitacost powdered sugar

1 3/4 tsp. plain almond milk

1 1/2 Tbsp. organic pumpkin puree, homemade

1/8 tsp. Pumpkin spice seasoning

French Macaron

Directions

Aquafaba concentrate
1. In sauce pan over medium-high heat, pour in both cans chickpea liquid AKA aquafaba (save chickpeas for my hummus recipe). Reduce liquid until 1/2 cup remains. Pour liquid into container and cool in refrigerator overnight (this step is very important).

Shell:

In food processor, pulse almond flour and powdered sugar until super fine. Add pumpkin spice, pulse and set aside.
To make meringue, use stand mixer to whip cold aquafaba concentrate for 10-15 minutes until medium peak forms. Slowly add sugar, a little at a time, until incorporated. Mix again for another minute or two until sugar mixes in fully. (This is ready when you can turn bowl upside down and meringue stays put.)
Using spatula, fold almond mixture into meringue. To fold, carefully bring spatula through middle of bowl toward you. Scraping sides of bowl, fold bottom layer onto top portion. Continue until mixture is fully incorporated and fluid (like molten lava). Note: If you do not properly fold batter, you will end up with cracked or hollow shells. Making sure the air is evenly distributed and the consistency is just right is very important. To test consistency, scoop batter with spatula into “8” shape. One clean swoop, means you’re ready to pipe!
Fill piping bag with mixture. On parchment-paper-lined baking sheet, draw 2-in. circles or dispense even amount of dough. To eliminate air bubbles, slam tray onto kitchen counter. Smooth out any “nipple” that formed from piping. Allow shells to sit for 90-120 minutes or until outside is no longer sticky to the touch.

Preheat oven to 300 degrees F.

Bake 14 minutes, checking frequently toward the end. You should be able to peel shells off parchment paper without sticking.
Using spatula, carefully lift macaron shells off parchment paper. Transfer to cooling rack.

Buttercream:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
If making homemade pumpkin puree, slice small baking pumpkin in half and lightly drizzle with oil. Place halves onto baking sheet, flesh side up, and roast for 40 minutes or until tender.
Once done roasting, add chunks of cut pumpkin into food processor (skin removed) and blend until smooth. (Use remaining purée for future recipe.)
In mixing bowl, beat room temperature butter until fluffy and white in color. Add powdered sugar, almond milk, pumpkin spice and either canned or homemade pumpkin purée and mix until frosting forms; about 3-4 minutes.
Spoon buttercream into middle of macaroon shell and top with another shell; carefully wiggling the two halves together. Once all are assembled, place into refrigerator for 24-48 hours or freeze up to 3 months.

Chef’s tip: To prevent a major macaron fail, avoid substituting ingredients or altering measurements.

October 24, 2018May 14, 2020

White Bean Swamp Chili

Warm and comforting food has always been a favorite when the seasons begin to change and the cold weather sets in. One of my favorite meals to eat during this time, especially when I was back home in Ohio, is a big bowl of chili! This recipe is filled with plant-based ingredients including beans. White beans, to be more exact, are loaded with cancer-fighting dietary fibers, have a low glycemic index, are a great source of protein as well as antioxidants! All around, this meal will fuel you up in more ways than just one so feel free to give it a try this fall/winter season!

Yields 5-6 servings

Ingredients

1/4 cup olive oil

1 large white onion, chopped

6-8 garlic cloves, chopped

1 cup tomato sauce

1/2 cup tomato paste

1 cup filtered water

1-1/2 cup cannellini beans, whole

1-3/4 cup cannellini beans, pureed

1-1/2 cup navy beans

2-1/2 cups tomatos, diced

2 cups whole corn

1/2 cup chives, to garnish

Spices:

1 Tbsp. curry powder

2 tsp. cayenne powder

2 tsp. ground coriander

4 Tbsp. chili powder

1/2 tsp. all spice

2-3 tsp. Vitacost Himalayan Fine Pink Salt

1/4 tsp. Spicely Organics Ground Black Pepper

1 Tbsp. organic sugar

Directions

In a large pot on medium heat, add the oil, garlic and onions. Sauté until tender.
Add the tomato sauce, paste, beans, pureed beans, diced tomatoes, corn, water, and all spices. Bring to a slight boil and reduce heat to low.
Cook for 1-2 hours (I cooked mine for 3 hours).
Serve topped with sour cream and chives or cheddar cheese of choice.

Chef’s tips: I cooked my chili for 3 hours

October 18, 2018October 31, 2020

Pumpkin Gnocchi

Making your own pasta can be tough which is why I have created this 3 ingredient gnocchi. To make this, you will just have to roast a pumpkin pie pumpkin and mash up the pulp into a smooth purée. The secret to this recipe is using fresh ingredients to elevate the ingredients into something mouth watering. Give this a try the next time you have some friends over for dinner or at your next family dinner.

Yields 4 servings

Ingredients

1 cup homemade pumpkin purée

1 small sweet potato

2-1/2 cup King Arthur organic flour

1 Tbsp. Bob’s Red Mill Egg Replacer + 2 Tbsp. filtered water, combined

1 tsp. Vitacost Himalayan Pink Salt

Sage Butter:

1/4 cup Earths Balance Vegan Buttery Sticks

1 garlic clove, minced

7-8 fresh sage leaves

Directions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
On a small looking sheet, lightly oil it and place the sweet potato that has been cut in half onto it. Roast for about 20 minutes or until it is tender. Remove from the oven and allow to cool.
On your counter, pour flour and crest a crater-like shape. Then add the egg replacer, pumpkin purée and roasted/peeled sweet potato and salt, slowly mixing the flour in until dough forms. Roll into a half sphere shape.
Slice dough into 8 segments. Roll out each segment into 12″ long pieces (like a ruler), cutting every 3/4-1in. to create smaller square shapes.
Using the back of a fork, press the dough into the back of the fork while you press down (in a rolling motion). This will get the small line indents onto the gnocchi.
In a pot of hot water, place your pumpkin gnocchi in and bring to slight boil. Stirring slightly, wait until it rises to the top. This will signify it is done and to be removed. Place the gnocchi in to a colander to drain.
In a pan, place on medium heat and add your butter and brown for 3-5 minutes. Then add sage leaves and cook for 30 seconds. Next, add the pumpkin gnocchi (be careful not burn the butter).
Sprinkle with vegan Parmesan and parsley or choice of topping.

Chef’s tip: Feel free to make this with squash or a sweet potato for a different gnocchi.

October 15, 2018October 31, 2020

Butternut Squash Salad with Watermelon and Walnuts

Juicy watermelon with roasted butternut squash is an interesting and new way to treat yourself during those autumn nights. This light and refreshing salad paired with a red wine vinaigrette is a delicious combination of sweet and savory! If you are looking for some extra protein, hemp seeds are a great touch with also add extra texture to any dish. This dish was inspired by a recent outing to one of my favorite restaurants. I am sure glad that I was able to make my own version of this delicious fall-inspired salad.

Yields 2 salads

Ingredients

1/4 watermelon, diced into medium cubes

1 butternut squash, cut in half and de-seeded

5 oz. arugula

1 cup walnuts, rough chop

Dressing:

1/2 cup avocado oil

1/4 cup red wine vinegar

1 Tbsp. balsamic reduction

1 tsp. sugar

1/4 tsp. Vitacost Pink Himalayan Fine Salt

1/4 tsp. Spicely Organics ground black pepper

1 tsp. lemon juice, (optional)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
Peel butternut squash and slice in half length-wise. Remove seeds and rinse- you can dry them and store in the freezer or you can roast them.
Take your prepared squash and dice it in to long pieces.
Place onto a lightly oiled pan and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Bake for 30-45 minutes, flipping half way through.
Remove from oven and allow to slightly cool.
While squash is cooling, in a small measuring glass, mix together all dressing ingredients and stir until well mixed, set aside.
For your salad, put arugula into a large bowl. Add watermelon, walnuts, butternut squash, and hemp seeds (save some to top salad with). Pour dressing over and mix to fully coat.

Chef’s tips: You can brush the squash with vegan butter and brown sugar if you would like to caramelize your squash a bit and add a different flavor to the salad.

October 12, 2018May 14, 2020

Apple Sauce

Ever wonder how it would be to take a bunch of apples and make your own apple sauce with out all that added sugar and preservatives? Well it’s a good thing you found yourself to this recipe because you are in for a real treat. Not only will your taste buds be exploding from the flavor but your house will be filled with an apple cinnamon flavor. It may just have your neighbors knocking on your door so be careful, it is that good.

Yields 16 oz

Ingredients

8 apples, peeled, decoded, and sliced

1 1/2 cup filtered water

1/2 cup Florida Crystals Organic Cane Sugar

1 tsp. Vitacost organic ground cinnamon

Directions

In a large stock pot, add chopped apples (peeled and de-cored), sugar, water, and cinnamon. Bring pot to high heat and boil for 15-20 minutes.
In a blender or using a hand held masher, smash apples.
Pour into a mason jar and allow to cool before lidding and placing in the refrigerator.

Chef’s tip: Substitute 1/4 cup applesauce in place of (1) egg for any baking recipe.

October 9, 2018May 14, 2020

Guacamole

This extremely simple guacamole will be gone as fast as it takes you to make it! Needing only a few ingredients to make, this Guacamole Recipe is a healthy dip that will leave you totally satisfied. This staple side dish makes its way onto countless tables each day and every taco Tuesday night. I recently was shown the hidden secret of adding a touch of oregano and cinnamon and I couldn’t wait to share it with you!

Yields 4 servings

Ingredients

3 avocado

1/2 tsp. cumin

1/4 tsp. ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp. oregano

1 clove of garlic, minced

1/2 tsp. Vitacost Himalayan Pink Salt

1/4 tsp. Spicely Organics Black Ground Pepper

1 tsp. lime juice, fresh squeezed

Dash of smoked paprika

Directions

To prepare your avocado, slice lengthwise around the entire pit. Remove the halves and with the “butt” of the knife (the back end) smack the pit and make a twist motion with your hand once the knife is sturdy in the seed. Remove pit and toss.
Remove flesh from avocado and place into a bowl. Mash with a fork and add the spices, lime juice, onion and tomato.
Top with smoked paprika and serve.

Chef’s tip: Feel free to add diced onion, tomatoes, or cilantro if you’d like.

September 24, 2018May 14, 2020

Authentic Columbian Arepas

It’s our favorite day of the week, Taco Tuesday! Change it up this week with these soft and fluffy Arepa’s. With only using 4 ingredients, this recipe is a great and easy weekday meal. After pan frying (or baking) these South American treats to perfection, you will want to try filling your Arepa’s with a variety of food! One of my favorite fillings is fresh jackfruit from Bedner’s Farm. It is a great “texture” if you are looking for an arepa with shredded “meat,” add beans, guacamole, tomato and enjoy! Don’t forget to try this with my Ancho Chili Sauce – it’s the perfect finishing touch for Taco Tuesday!

Yields 10 arepas

Ingredients

2 cups P.A.N Harina Blanca – Pre-cooked White Corn Meal

4 Tbsp. Earth Balance Vegan Buttery Sticks

2 1/4 cups of hot water

1 tsp. Vitacost Himalayan Pink Salt, for flavor

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, combine corn meal, melted butter, and salt. Slowly add the hot water in increments and mix until a dough-like consistency has formed.
- Note** Do not allow dough to get gooey, it should be slightly wet.
Next, grab a handful of the dough (roughly 1/4 cup) and roll it in to a round sphere. Flatten dough in to a disk shape using the palm of your hand.
Drizzle oil into frying pan and turn on medium-high heat. Cook arepas for 2-3 minutes on each side or until slightly golden brown.
Allow to cool and slice in half. Add desired fillings and enjoy.

Chef’s tip: For added flavor, you may choose to add some extra seasonings: cumin, oregano, red pepper flakes, or adobe all purpose seasoning.

September 23, 2018May 14, 2020

Peanut Butter Cup Nice Cream Bowl

I don’t know about you all, but there is something about peanut butter, chocolate, and bananas that resonates deep within! Morning’s can sometimes be dull or basic since we are usually rushing out of the door to conquer our daily duties. Thus leaving little to no time for us to focus on our most important meal of the day, breakfast. This is a great start to any day or even a great post-workout snack! In whatever you decide, you can always personalize this bowl and add any fruits, seeds, or powders of your choice.

Yields 1 smoothie bowl

Ingredients

3-4 frozen banana’s

1 tsp. moringa powder.

3 Tbsp. Vitacost Certified Organic Crunchy & Unsalted Peanut Butter – Gluten Free and Non-GMO

1 Tbsp. Hershey’s Natural Unsweetened Cocoa

1 medjool date, pitted (optional)

Toppings:

3 Tbsp. hazelnuts

1 Tbsp. agave nectar

1/2 sliced banana

2 Tbsp. carob chips

1 Tbsp. chia seeds

Directions

Blend all ingredients using tamper to help mixture along until smooth.
Pour into a bowl and add toppings.

August 21, 2018September 9, 2020

Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Baked Potato Soup with Portobello “Bacon”

This isn’t any ordinary baked potato soup. Why, you ask? Well, it may be rich, it may be creamy, but this baked potato soup is both dairy- and bacon-free. Plus, it tastes way better (and it’s healthier). What’s even more exciting is that this recipe includes two star ingredients from another comfort food favorite: broccoli and cheddar. You definitely won’t regret asking for seconds when it comes to this tasty soup that you can enjoy for lunch or as an appetizer.

Yield 6 servings

Ingredients

1 russet potato

2 broccoli heads

1 medium onion, diced

3 celery stalks, diced

2 medium carrots, cubed

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 Tbsp. Vitacost Certified Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil

2 Tbsp. Earth Balance Vegan Buttery Sticks

1 quart plain almond milk

3 cups vegetable broth

3 Tbsp.

1/4 green onion, leave 1 Tbsp. to garnish with

1/2 cup vegan sharp cheddar cheese, leave a pinch for garnish

Portobello mushroom “bacon”

1 Portabello mushroom, sliced

1 tsp. smokey flavor

1 Tbsp. Vitacost Certified Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Pinch Vitacost Fine Himalayan Pink Salt

Croutons

1 small ciabatta bread, diced into cubes

1 Tbsp. Vitacost Certified Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil

1 tsp. garlic powder

Pinch Vitacost Fine Himalayan Pink Salt

Directions

Bacon:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
In bowl, drizzle oil over sliced mushrooms.
Add salt, pepper and smoke flavor. Mix until evenly coated.
On baking sheet, evenly arrange mushrooms.
Bake 10-15 minutes.
Flip mushrooms and bake for another 10 minutes or until brown and crispy.

Croutons:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
Drizzle oil onto baking sheet.
Add diced bread and coat with salt, pepper and garlic powder.
Bake for 10 minutes until golden brown.

Soup:

In large pot, sauté sliced onion, carrot and celery for 5-10 minutes until transparent and soft. Season with salt, pepper and garlic.
Sprinkle flour over sautéed vegetables and mix. Slowly add vegetable stock, almond milk, broccoli and potatoes to pot. Bring to boil and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 30 minutes or until potatoes have cooked. Mix in green onions.
Serve with croutons, green onion, vegan cheddar cheese and mushroom “bacon” on top.

Chef’s tip: You can add 1-1/2 cups of vegan cheddar cheese to the soup directly and stir to mix if desired.

August 17, 2018May 14, 2020

Crispy Home-fries

This potato hash is hearty, simple and a well-known comfort food we all love and enjoy. On the weekends, it is usually a time when we go out to brunch and share it with our family and friends. This weekend, why not bring that same atmosphere to your home with this recipe! With added seeds, sun-dried tomatoes, and other wholesome ingredients. you can make a simple dish into something new. With these garden-fresh and fragrant elements, your mouth and body is going to be asking for more!

Ingredients

3 medium russet potato

1 medium yellow onion

1 red bell pepper

1/4 cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes in Olive Oil, chopped

2 cloves garlic, sliced

1 Tbsp. Rosemary

1 Tbsp. Parsley

1 tsp Vitacost Himalayan Pink Salt- Fine

1/2 tsp Spicely Organics Pepper Black Ground Tin

2 cups spinach

1/4 cup spaghetti squash seeds

Directions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
Drizzle olive oil on a baking sheet. Cut the potatoes into 1/2 inch cubes and place onto pan. Chop the red bell pepper, onion, and garlic and mix into potatoes. Sprinkle rosemary, salt and pepper over top.
Bake for 20 minutes, then remove from oven- add the seeds and sun-dried tomatoes.. Bake addition 10 minutes.
In a serving dish, place spinach on the bottom and pour potatoes on top- mixing spinach in to wilt.
Serve as side dish with other breakfast foods.

Chef’s tip: Squeeze half a lemon directly after the potato has comes out of the oven for an extra flavor boost!