Recipe: Vegan Basil Rhubarb Crisp

Hello everyone,

It’s summer and that means one thing—it’ time to make crisps and crumbles full of unique flavors! I recently visited my local farmers market and was so happy to find rhubarb! Most people mix rhubarb with strawberry, but I like to let the rhubarb flavor shine on its own. I updated my old recipe and perfected a new and improved vegan basil rhubarb crisp.

The basil adds a savory twist which helps tone down the natural acidity from the rhubarb. The result is a sugary, but not too sweet, dessert that pairs perfectly with vegan whipped cream or ice cream. This crisp is sure to please everyone at your next summer potluck, plus it’s so easy to make! It requires only eight ingredients and takes under an hour to complete. Head to your local farmers market and pick up some beautiful red-green stalks today!

Cheers!

Jocelyn

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Recipe: Vegan Vanilla “Birthday” Cupcakes

Hello everyone,

I recently blew out the candles for my 30th birthday. Where did the time go?! The weekend was filled with family, friends, lots of laughter, and of course, plenty of good food! When it comes to baking for my loved ones, I go all out with flavor and style. But for me, I like to keep my own birthday treats simple. 

I love a perfectly done vegan vanilla cupcake. The light airy cake, topped with a sweet icing and sprinkles – it can’t be beat! There is something so comforting and special about it. I’ve been making these cupcakes for years, but I recently doubled the amount of time I let the soy milk and apple cider vinegar curdle. I have to say, it made a huge difference! I’ve never had cupcakes so fluffy! 

Give this updated recipe a try and let me know how it works for you!

Cheers & happy eating!

Jocelyn

* Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. As always, all opinions are my own!

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Recipe: Japanese Curry with Fried Eggplant

Hello everyone,

If you’re like me the word “curry” triggers thoughts of rich, creamy coconut milk- based goodness or a nice Indian meal. If so, you’re missing out! 

For years, I too, was ignorant that there is yet another type of curry that should not be missed. It’s Japanese Curry! This style of curry is thick, indulgent and delicious! Simply put — it’s a must try. The base of the dish is more of a gravy than sauce so it’s certainly a splurge meal, but it’s worth it. 

The basic components include white or brown rice, the sauce, and a slew of steamed or sautéed vegetables. My partner was feeling particularly ambitious, so we added breaded eggplant to our dish. The result was an amazing meal meant to be enjoyed with friends. 

Give this recipe for vegan Japanese Curry with Fried Eggplant a try, and let me know what you think!

Cheers & happy eating!

Jocelyn

* Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. As always, all opinions are my own!

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Mixed Cabbage Salad w/ Citrus Peanut Vinaigrette

Hello everyone,

My partner loves asian-inspired flavors. He uses sesame oil when it isn’t necessary. He uses soy sauce at odd times. You get the idea. Well, I’ve been looking for new, quick & easy recipes with asian flavors outside the usual stir fry. I recently created a recipe for chilled sesame noodle salad, and now I’ve hit the mark again with a mixed cabbage salad with a citrus peanut dressing.

This has easily become a quick favorite because it’s so practical. You can make a large batch on Sunday and use it for lunches throughout the week. Simply keep the vinaigrette on the side and add the dressing as you go. The base flavors are mild—meaning this recipe is also easily adaptable. You can even make a few different dressings to keep it interesting.

If you stick true to the recipe you’ll end up with a crunchy, sweet and sour salad that tastes great. Plus, it’s so appetizing with all the vibrant colors! Give it a try!

Cheers,

Jocelyn

* Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. As always, all opinions are my own! Continue reading “Mixed Cabbage Salad w/ Citrus Peanut Vinaigrette”

How to Make Fattoush Salad

Hello everyone,

I love Middle Eastern cuisine. Baba ghanoush, falafel, tabouli, you name it— it’s some of my favorite food. I was craving a feel good meal this weekend, so I decided to try my hand at a classic, fattoush salad.

Fattoush (فتوش) is a levantine bread salad which originated in Lebanon, but is also common in Syria and other Middle Eastern counties. Fattoush includes toasted or fried pieces of pita bread mixed with greens and fresh vegetables. It generally also includes cucumber, tomato, and other ingredients depending on season, location, taste, etc.

The dressing is slightly sour and acidic, using a healthy serving of lemon juice and sumac. Since I didn’t have sumac, I used zatar seasoning to give the salad a full flavor. I also used store bought pita chips to save time, but I’m sure this recipe would be even better if you used homemade pita bread for the crunch. This is a deceptively easy salad to make considering the robust flavor combinations. Why not give it a try?

What’s your favorite Middle Eastern recipe?

Cheers,

Jocelyn

* Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. As always, all opinions are my own! Continue reading “How to Make Fattoush Salad”