Thursday, December 13, 2007
Getting Greener with Gill! Recycling pt. #2
Hi,
I am out of battery power on my camera so I need to
write to you this week to share the "How to Recycle"
part 2 of my Recycling blog and to reiterate some
basic rules of thumb.
Where we live in Aurora, IL, thankfully we have
unlimited recycling and just pay for garbage stickers
so by creating less trash we are actually saving money
as well as resources and energy and we will not be
contributing to more dumps like the nasty Hillside
Landfill that leaves a stench in the air by my work
that makes it difficult to breathe.
I want to make sure you have the basic knowledge
needed to help the majority of the recycling you put
out actually get recycled.
PLEASE:
DO NOT put plastic bags, styrofoam, plastic utensils,
straws, most fast food litter, #6 plastics,
appliances, Ewaste or batteries (see
http://earth911.org) or bottles that held non water
soluble items in your bins. Do not bag up your
recycling or leave newspapers in plastic sleeves or
leave the plastic caps on your bottles. Do not leave
food or dirt in containers, but please dump and wipe.
See www.rmrecycle.com for further general DO and DON'T
lists. Greg at the recycling center said the worst
problem they see is people attempting to recycle
plastic toys and #6 plastics so please be cautious.
Toys are not recyclable. Please donate them. (more
about resale shopping later)
For cool ways to recycle just about anything check out
Recyclethis.co.uk
A holiday Green note:
If you haven't got a tree yet consider a potted
Christmas tree that will live long after the holidays;
use energy efficient LED lights; use recycled gift
wrap or make your own....
Until next week "Do the Best You Can With What You
Have Where You Are!" And educate others..
Peace & Blessings,
"Getting Greener Every Day",
Gill
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Fruit Power! Interview
I knew since I hav been slacking lately I had to give my viewers something, or someone, who would smack it out of the park.
Today I bring to you the Amazing Richard Blackman! Who is a notorious fitness expert and long time Fruititarian, yes that is right - only fruit. Mr. Blackman, or F1 as he is also known, was kind enough to share some of his 'secrets', if you will, about his lifestyle.
The Interview w/F1:
Mocha: *Disclaimer: F1 - I know that I am not you, obviously, and your dietary regime or workout routine may not necessarily suit me, and vice -versa, but strictly out of pure curiosity, and the curiosity of others, I wish to ask you a few questions and hope I will get more in-sight on how you live and that which may apply to my lifestyle.
Also know that I have watched all of your videos and these questions I wasn't able to answer w/there help alone.
Richard Blackman(F1):Thanks for being so respectful, that means a lot to me....
As I said in my video's, people always want to know what I do and how I live/eat but my problem is that I don't spend my life analizing everything I do and I don't want to, that was cool when I first started out but now I've moved on, plus what I do depends on the seasons, climate, activities, etc, so sometimes it's next to impossible to give people the answers they want because what I say may change the week after because of a change in climate, etc....plus I don't focus on food and with all the questions regarding food it can be a huge drag, like I say, I'm not trying to be rude, I just find talking about food and what I eat EXTREMELY boring, unproductive and not what we should be focusing on, plus I role in life is not to please peoples curiosity, I got better things to do with my time.
Interview
Mocha: F1 I find myself looking at some of the amazing things you have accomplished and
Mocha: Q1) I wonder exactly what you do eat on a daily basis (I remember that you once said you drank only orange juice one day, I find that interesting for someone like you to maintain such bulk w/ orange juice - once again, I am not criticizing, but just intrigued) and that you believe in eating less to maximize absorption of the nutrients, is that correct? If so, how much is enough, for instance do you only have one meal a day to monitor your intake or do you just eat until you're full? - or perhaps you may eat more on some days then others?
F1: A1) I just eat when I need to and stop when I get the signal and as far as I'm concerned that's all the thought I need to put into it, I don't see food as a treat, it's only to replace what you use up during activity.
Mocha: Q2) I know you promote outdoor exercise; I was wondering do you ever use a gym or standard weights? If you do, how many times a day/week - do you have rest days or days when you go lighter on yourself? If so, are those days premeditated or one of those wow! I feel kind of sore today, how about I take a breather, days.
F1: A2) I train outdoors come rain or shine if I have to I can do the same indoors, with what I do I can do anything anywhere, I have no routine I train everyday because I want to, I only do bodyweight exercises and power hiking/sprints and some conditioning drills, I'm always exploring, my main aim is to have fun playing and nothing is set in stone.
Mocha: Q3) Do you have any advice to a beginning raw foodist on how to gain muscle the way you did, fruititarian or 80/10/10rv, or perhaps you can give some pointers on which workouts you included, more frequently, in you day to day efforts?
F1: A3) My advice to new raw foodists can be found in the videos, but it goes like this, going raw is like training to be a navy seal, you gotta want it bad, it's a total mind and body over haul so make sure your going raw for the right reasons and make sure your in it for the long haul, find activities you love and do them intensly, stay active and realise that you will not make significant gains in performance or growth until you are clean internaly and are ready for rebuilding, food is not the solution, you have a process to go through and there's no escaping from it.
Mocha: Q4) Since fasting plays such a huge part in the lifestyle of other Fruitarians that I have spoken with, such as Viktoras K., I was curious if you ever fast in complement to your dietary practices?
F1: A4) In the fall/winter I don't need to eat very often if at all, sometimes I will go a day without having anything, even when active, I don't do that intentionally it's just how it goes sometimes but in the the Texas summer I have to stay hydrated, I don't fast intentionally.
Mocha: Q5) Finally, is your book almost ready to be released or is there any other exciting information of yours that you would like to share?
Thank you so much for your time,
Mocha
F1: A5) My book is still a work in progress and it's looking like my "F.I.T System" DVD will be finished before the book is.
To further inquire about F1's fitness programs or just general workout/Raw or Fruititarian information - A link to his website in on the blog or
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Year in a Minute, or maybe two :)
As the Earth does its annual rotation, so do I! I move from one succulent (Ripe) in-season fruit, to the next. From Citrus, to Mangos, through Fig season, which then leads me to Persimmons! Nature has a perfectly evolved time-clock, which every fruit is already prepared in its eco-friendly packaging - how it was originally intended.
As you know, buying organic, sometimes, can be a hefty burden on a persons’ checkbook; but if the fruit is in season (preferably) local, it can relieve most of the pressure that our bank accounts can't handle. Saving cash and Eating healthy, that is the present I wish to bring you this Christmas - So I know present Mocha's Naughty and Nice List:
*Citrus (Oranges/Tangerines/Kiwi/Grapefruit/Berries)
- In 'Peak' season: January <-> April
Citrus is perfect for fighting off prime flu season, at-least in Chitown anyway, which runs late winter into early spring and acts as a wonderful cleansing fruit, for beginning raw foodist or "long-timers" who just came off of persimmon feasting and the cooler winter season. If you haven't noticed I do not include Pineapple in my diet, unless I have personally grown one or know someone that has, for a lot of essential nutrients have to be absorbed from the soil for a pineapple to fully ripen and lose its excess acidity - That's why, most, people can eat a so called ripe organic pineapple and have adverse side-effects towards them.
*Mangos
- In 'Peak' Season: May <-> July
Mangos, the most commonly consumed fruit in the world, pack amazing flavor and are supremely nutritious (High vitamin C & A, Dietary Fiber, & B Vitamins). Mangos contain fairly high caloric density and can keep a person going throughout the summer months! Also, make sure your Mangos are organically grown, if not the can have extremely toxic fungicides and Pesticides sprayed on them, so they can survive the long journey from South America - Most organic Mangos, that are in season, come from (North) America.
*Figs
- In 'Peak' Season: August <-> September
Figs, My mouth starts salivating at the word, may be my number one fruit - closley followed by durian and Bananas. Figs don’t necessarily have to be organic, because sometimes, depending on where you live, a person may necessarily not be able to find organic figs - Just know that once a year, figs are sprayed w/methyl bromide and various other pesticides and fungicides(1).
*Persimmons
- In 'Peak' Season: October <-> December
No better way to wrap up our year in a Minute, then w/ persimmons - We should be hanging these guys from our Christmas Trees, except I don't know how long they'll last :) They're two kinds of Persimmons, commonly seen in the U.S that is, which are Fuyus, which can either be eaten hard like an apple or when the fruit has developed a more soft flesh, and Hachiya, which are part of the astringent group of persimmons and have to be eaten when fully ripe - Very Soft and Jiggly flesh, both are delicious.
*Bananas
- Always in crop rotation - Always fresh
Support your Organic Banana Farmers - Inorganic Farming of Bananas are some of the most DEVESTING CROPS that are in circulation. For more information: Click Here>> organicgrocerydeals
*Melons & Coconuts
- Rotate Seasons w/each other: Melons warmer Months, Coconuts Colder Months
Both are Potassium rich pure water - Besides from Sprout Juice, I believe Melons/Coconuts are the 'Highest' vibe water a person can take in!
*Sprouts
- Always in Season :)
I can go on-and-on about the benefits of sprouting, but I believe the majority of my viewers already know there power - I can go all year on just eating these guys alone! Between, Leafysprouts (Sunflower, Broccoli, Clover, etc), Grain Sprouts (Buckwheat and Quinoa, which both contain no gluten), and Bean/Pea Sprouts, I am Set.
- Figs Citation: http://www.organicgrocerydeals.com/forums/showthread.php?t=619
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Winter Wonderland
Lovely,
That is the word that encapsulates the whole spirit that the winter months have to offer.
The serene elegance, which is Snow, has already begun to grace me and my fellow in-habitant in the Great Midwest and will continue throughout the next 2-3 Months.
These are the times that most (organic) fruit, fresh anyway, is very difficult to come-by and if so, most likely at outrageous prices. So, for me at-least, during these months, I turn to grains and the trusty dehydrator.
Sprouted Grains (Quinoa & Buckwheat) are usually a main staple for me during the Winter months, for they are cold weather sprouts and most-likely would have been consumed at times familiar as these - if we were back in the days of our ancestors, due to the enormous nutritional content and the check-book friendly nature of these little guys :)
Grain dishes are also very satisfying and warming, but, this is where the dehydrator comes in, Grains (Buckwheat mostly - Quinoa can chill in the fridge anywhere from 1-2Weeks, if not to bitter to the pallet) ferment very easily - if sprouted and not immediately consumed. I suggest sprouting Buckwheat and then immediately dehydrating it for 3-5Hrs @ 105 - afterwards place in an Airtight container, located in a cool dark place in the house: Once this has been done, Buckwheat can keep for as-long-as one MONTH!!!
Once dehydrated, ground (Sprouted) buckwheat acts as a wonderful emulsifier, Due to the high lecithin content, and can be used as a substitute, in most cases, for nuts & seeds.
Since this >> << is calling my name, I bid you all A'due - and until next time
Mocha
Picture Credits: My Dad's Christmas Layout
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Getting Greener with Gill! Recycling
We are blessed to have Jill, in our second installment of "Go Green with Jill!", on ChefdeMocha and todays episode is on recycling and other various ways to reuse goods to save the wonderful planet:)
Jill, being such a recycling enthusiast, decided to put the blog post on tape, due to the lengthy time that it would take you to read it. So let’s all thank Jill for saving time and the Planet!
Monday, December 3, 2007
We're not gonna take it!!!
I have to turn to the lyrics of good ole' Twisted Sister in dark times, such as these.
but it is true, Green Pasteurization - We're NOT GONNA TAKE IT! If Legislation passes this through, no-longer will any commercial, non-organic, greens will be viable, but Organic produce will sky-rocket in price, due to the USDA increasing their annual certification rates.
THIS IS A CALL TO ALL PEOPLE EVERYWHERE, who wish that there food is full of life and no avoid of all of its enzymes, vitamins, and nutrients! I never thought that such things could be passed, until Almond Pasteurization, but it is time to ACT
This is a Link to the Petition Forum and more information >> Click HERE <<
Please support our farmers and fend off these insane acts, before we no-longer have any say.
Mocha
Saturday, December 1, 2007
No Way
I just went to the Doctor yesterday (I'm not sick, I just needed a current physical done for school)...
And, as-all-ways, He asked me the same two questions that every new Doctor I meet seems inclined to ask
- 1. How are you getting enough Protein?
- 2. Where do you get your vitamin B12?
So since I am hot on the subject, let me demystify the sleeping giant, which is the tale of vitamin B12.
So our story starts in a Time long ago, in a land that is far far away.
Ok! It wasn't that long ago and yes, it wasn't too far away either - In-fact it was in American, and all the countries for that matter, before the whole 'Pasteur and Germs' issue came about. Back before the USDA decided that anything that is natural cannot be good for us and irradiation, pasteurization, and pesticides were invented, raw fruits and Vegetable were able to roam freely in untreated soil - Free of Toxins and treated chemicals. Those were the days when we, Humans, were over-flowing with vitamin B12 and had not a care in the world of supplementation or other Meat & Dairy propaganda.
See the truth is, B12, a form of bacteria, is not in our food - it's on it. B12, a form of culture produced by acidophilus fermentation in the Soil, would then cling to the Vegetables or fruit that it came in to contact with. Unfortunately, after many years of removing these valuable bacteria from the soil, which our farmers (even organic)most-likely use to grow our Vegetable, Vegetables are no longer able to fill the requirements our body needs for this necessary bacteria.
So then Vegetarians, Vegans, and Living Foodies must now all turn to other sources that are 'up-to-snuf' with the B12 stuff (Dang I'm Gansta:), which I will, to the best of my knowledge, give a detailed break-down of each.
*Supplementation: The least recommended, but the most reliable. Over time, supplementation will be taxing on the bank account and may be analog (bad) B12 anyway - If it wasn't properly maintained.
*Fermented Products: Homemade fermented items are cheap, practical, and delicious. Kombucha, which is a strong source of B-12 (2C has 40-60% daily recommended dosage), can also be used to ferment other products, such as Raw Vegan Cheeses and Yogurts, as-well-as be consumed as a delicious beverage by its-self!
*Vegetables & Seaweeds: Properly grown Vegetables and Seaweeds (except Nori) are the most practical and nutritious way to intake the adequate amount of Human Viable B12. Seaweeds, with the exception of Nori - and the inclusion of Spirulina, Chlorella, & Blue-Green Algae, have exceptionally high amount of B12 and all of the Trace minerals of the ocean that surrounds them!
The truth is that no-matter what you tell the Doctors or ignorant people that jump on the medias' band-wagon, "The proof is in the Pudin'".
Just make sure you are taking in one of the three items listed, and you'll be able to show up your Doctor, if you even go to one, like I did.
Mocha
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Riots!
The riots in France got me thinking on how worse off some people truly are, even in wealthy countries, for instance America.
According to the Census Beauru, a family of five, a Mother and Father, two children, and an Aunt, cannot apply for government aid if they earn a total annual income of $25,000 or more(the government poverty line). $25,000 dollars a year - If you do the math, that allots for $9.92 per person a day. I am not trying to make anyone guilty or remorseful, I just feel that if people start looking at others with more compassion and love in their heart - then alot of these problems can be averted.
So, I have another challenge for my readers today: In-stead of being angry or disdainful towards a person/s(whether it be your teacher, a festered relationship between you and a family member, etc), just remember that they're only two emotions from which everything else spawns - That being -
with that being said a person can approach life with Love(which snowballs into > Peace > Joy > Calamity > etc) or Fear( Timidity > Aggression > Anger > etc); either of those two emotions can determine the whole outcome of the day and eventually the path of your life.
So, I have one last writing to post: A letter, which I am now going to send to the French president in finalization of this blog. You may continue reading if you like - But if not I close, as-all-ways, with peace & blessings.
Mocha
Mr. French President,
How about you put yourself in the rioters’ shoes, instead of making their life ever-more seem like hell. Mr. French President, Picture living with all of your countries minorities, without any opportunity for a better life(guessing that most of the commercial stores are long gone, due to violence, and public education is limited, if even an option). Mr. French President, your country men don't hate you or your police force, they only lash out at a society that gives no opportunities or love. Mr. French President, I close my letter hoping that no more bombs have to be blown or guns have to shot, only that this letter must be read for you to truly understand their situation.
Mocha
P.s And the only thing that is "absolutely unacceptable", is acting out of the emotion of fear.
According to the Census Beauru, a family of five, a Mother and Father, two children, and an Aunt, cannot apply for government aid if they earn a total annual income of $25,000 or more(the government poverty line). $25,000 dollars a year - If you do the math, that allots for $9.92 per person a day. I am not trying to make anyone guilty or remorseful, I just feel that if people start looking at others with more compassion and love in their heart - then alot of these problems can be averted.
So, I have another challenge for my readers today: In-stead of being angry or disdainful towards a person/s(whether it be your teacher, a festered relationship between you and a family member, etc), just remember that they're only two emotions from which everything else spawns - That being -
Love(1) and Fear(2)
with that being said a person can approach life with Love(which snowballs into > Peace > Joy > Calamity > etc) or Fear( Timidity > Aggression > Anger > etc); either of those two emotions can determine the whole outcome of the day and eventually the path of your life.
So, I have one last writing to post: A letter, which I am now going to send to the French president in finalization of this blog. You may continue reading if you like - But if not I close, as-all-ways, with peace & blessings.
Mocha
Mr. French President,
How about you put yourself in the rioters’ shoes, instead of making their life ever-more seem like hell. Mr. French President, Picture living with all of your countries minorities, without any opportunity for a better life(guessing that most of the commercial stores are long gone, due to violence, and public education is limited, if even an option). Mr. French President, your country men don't hate you or your police force, they only lash out at a society that gives no opportunities or love. Mr. French President, I close my letter hoping that no more bombs have to be blown or guns have to shot, only that this letter must be read for you to truly understand their situation.
Mocha
P.s And the only thing that is "absolutely unacceptable", is acting out of the emotion of fear.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Connect-Community-Love
Monday, November 26, 2007
Go Green Jill!
Hi,
My name is Gill, and I am excited that Ryan asked me
to write a Go Green Blog for his blogspot. Thanks
Chefdemocha! I want to introduce myself. I have been
Vegan since 2005 after being a Vegetarian for about 10
years prior. Even as a Vegan I was a "Junk food
Vegan" almost daily binging on sugar and carbs and
wasting precious resources eating much more than
anyone actually needs. I knew in my heart that the
only way for me to truly help the Earth I work so hard
to preserve, by saving resources, was by ultimately
becoming a better picture of health and an advocate
for my body as a temple as well as a healthy example
of a Vegan representative. This meant what I had known
all along. I needed to Go Raw. I met Danny & Kathy
this past summer and they have helped me on my path to
better health and a greener Vegan lifestyle. After
struggling and playing games with eating Raw and then
Binging and doing the same thing over and over
expecting different results (the definition of
insanity) I knew I needed to make a change. Danny
recently asked me if I would ever pollute the Earth I
so love to which I emphatically responded NO! Then he
asked if I thought I was connected to the Earth. I
said "Of course" and reiterated how I agreed that we
all make up the beauty of creation. It was when he
asked why I would pollute my body and waste precious
resources that I made the connect. Danny reminded me
of the "Crying Indian" who used to cry on the 1970
PSA(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q_gokTG46oQ) about
how people were destroying the Earth & its resources.
He explained how the "Crying Indian" was actually me
crying because of how I was polluting and destroying
my poor body (the Earth) which I profess to love.
Wow! That woke me up and I made the connect of my love
of the Earth with my need to love myself, and that was
my beginning of going High Raw. This blog will explain
how I try to live my life as Green Raw Mostly Raw
Vegan. I will provide glimpses into my life as well as
ideas I use to live a Greener Vegan life and limit my
carbon footprint.
My green idea for today: Instead of dreading winter as
I used to, get yourself bundled up (in your warm
clothes purchased at the local resale shop..more about
that at a later date) and go out for a brisk
walk..look at Holiday decorations, smell the scents of
the season, see the sights, exercise yourself and your
favorite companions, be they 2 or 4 legged...Get
moving; it will help you stay warm and embrace the
beauty of the season. Maybe adopt a shelter pet to be
your companion and keep you moving (more about this
later, too) . Be sure to keep your space clean by
picking up a couple of recyclables on your path...and
on your walk meditate on your gratitude. This will
warm youup inside & out. Wishing you Peace & Blessings
until next time, "Green Gill"
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Durian Durian
I can only describe Durian as a Tattoo or a Name Change: Some Love it - Others can't stand the thought of it.
Is to Raw Foodies, as Icecream(and I mean really creamy Icecream) is to Non(raw)Vegans - I mean this fruit is the most treasured fruit in all of Asia( No joke: that is why they call it the King)
Flavors that are reminiscent of a Banana&Mango w/the creaminess of an Avocado - Perfectly packaged in-side natures container.
So You may be asking - Why doesn't everyone eat durian?
and that is a very good question, but something’s do need to be addressed: Like how a Durian looks like a medieval weapon or maybe how the stench it gives off can clear a house.
but once people become accustomed to these wonderful blessings - People just can't stop eating them.
So to help people transition into the ways of the Durian - I give thee the Durian Nirvana Cheesecake:
*Durian Nirvana CheeseCake
~Pie Crust
- 1&1/2C Walnuts, Soaked
- 1/2C Buckwheat Groats, Sprouted
- 1/2C dates
- 1Tbsp Cinnamon
- 1Tbsp Agave or Yacon Syrup
0 Salt
0 Flaxoil
~Filling
- 1&1/2C Durian
- 2C Macadamia Nuts
- 1/2C Dates, soaked
- 1C CocoMeat
0 Cocowater or Vannilla Wtr
0 salt
~Frosting
- 1C Pinenuts
- 1/2C Dates, soaked
- 1C Carob Powder
0 Cocowater
0 Candied Ginger, Choped
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Pie Anyone?
Of Course! Who doesn't want a nice slice of comforting pie, especially around the chilly time when Thanksgiving rolls around(for Me at-least).
And that is what I shall bring to you today
Pumpkin Pie - Raw Pumpkin Pie that is:)
One that is creamy, soothing, and even won over a pretty tuff crowd, which is my family
So without any further A'due, I give you Mocha's Rawsome Pumpkin Pie.
^^^Please be patient if it takes some time to load,it's worth it:) Thank you^^^
*Rawsome Pumpkin Pie
~Pie Crust
- 1&1/2C Walnuts, Soaked
- 1/2C Buckwheat Groats, Sprouted
- 1/2C dates
- 1Tbsp Cinnamon
- 1Tbsp Agave or Yacon Syrup
0 Salt
0 Flaxoil
~Icing/Filling Base - Save 1-1&1/2C's for Icing the Pie
- 2C Macadamia Nuts
- 1C CocoMeat
- 1/2C Agave or yacon syrup
- 1Lemon, juiced
- 2Tbsp Nutbutter
0 Cinnamon
0 Salt
~Pie filling - Add to ^^
- 1&1/2C Pumpkin
- 1C Carrot, pulp or grated
0 Cocowtr
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Gobbling your way to health: Not a Message for the Faint Hearted
-Picture credited to: http://www.jonathanfongstyle.com/flowers/thanksgiving_turkey.html
With an average American Thanksgiving ranging from 2500kcal all-the-way up to a whopping 4000kcal,which the intake of Fat is no-doubt in the high 60% range(meaning:170g-300g), and all health experts have to offer is to "Prepare sweet potatoes with little or no marshmallow cream..." I find this humorous since everyone, at-least in the rest of my carnivorous family, can't wait to rush to the table for the big feast, or ... that's what they call it anyway.
I just have such a hard time wrapping my head around the fact that when I even propose the idea of them trying one of my 'hearty' raw vegan dishes, they laugh! Followed with a quick shove aside by my Uncle while He's rushing over to the 'TurDuckIn'(probably the most cardio He's gotten all year).
So I now propose a challenge to my readers, I kind of homework if you will, don't take part in the devouring of that,poor, meat-based creature, which, basically, is ritualistically killed :(, then worshiped over the course of about 2 days(maybe 3 if you have leftovers:) and replace it with a vegan(hopefully, raw vegan) dish. Now I know this may be hard for some – others it was already planned, but no matter what the circumstance, the day after Thanksgiving, give yourself a pat on the back; because in-a-way, you just protested for the saving of life.
Sunday, November 18, 2007
From the Womb
Quinoa, the so-called 'Mother grain', is at full capacity with its protein content and, on-top-of-that, they are all complete protein, which means that the protein contains all 8 essential amino acids. Also, Quinoa is great for raw fooders because it supplies the bulk calories, some people need, to gain muscle mass and is also very high in alkalizing minerals, such as Zinc, Copper, and Magnesium. Some people tend to speculate if Quinoa is an acidic grain, like most grains are, but there's no worries If your Quinoa is sprouted, which is the case for all raw foodist, the grain turns very alkalizing and it's nutrient density sky rockets!(There has been such recordings as the vitamin E content, per 100g, increasing 900% to 1200% - As if it wasn't already high enough) Along-with some of it's more hidden attributes, the most common consensus about grain is that they have High Fiber; which is indeed true, but not only when you sprout Quinoa does it become a predigested food and gain dramatic increases in vitamin and mineral potency, it maximizes it's dietary fiber store as-well. Although Flax is not only notourious for it's Omegas, but also it's Ligan content - Well I guess you can step aside flax, because Quinoa is chalk full of these probiotic forming ligans too!
To conclude the Weekend of the Aztec, I would like to share with all of you a recipie that I tweaked from Dr. Cousens book, Conscience Eating, called the Tri-dosha Grain Smoothie(which effectively balances all three dosha's with-in the Ayduavaic principle). Although I always have these sprouts on hand, for I am a hugh advocate of sprouting, others may not, in which case you could replace the buckwheat w/CocoPulp which is also nuetral to all of the Doshas(If you don't know what Dosh you are, I have a link under 'Lifesavers' which would help you detremine which type you are).
*Tri-dosha Grain smoothie
- 1/4C Buckwheat groats
- 1/4C Quinoa
- 1Tbsp Nutbutter
- Cocowtr
0 Salt
0 Stevia
0 Beepollen
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Do I have to? - Spirulina
Lets face it
Spirulina doesn't give off too much of a welcoming smell or even posses an inviting color(In the words of Crayola, 'Oscar, the grouch, Green' & that’s putting it nicely), but matter-of-fact this superfood is filled w/ wonderful compounds, which could give a raw foodist, and people in general, that extra boost to supercharge them through their day! Spirulina, which has been consumed since the early 9th century, is a free floating bacteria, that is roughly 60% predigested protein. Although the Aztecs were not the first people to include Spirulina in their daily diet, they knew full-and-well of its incredible healing power. Spirulina is the highest dietary source of beta-carotene, as-well-as many other flavonoids and pigments such as chlorophyll, has a full vitamin b-complex, and also contains a rare fatty-acid only found in mother's milk(GLA). Furthermore Spirulina has been scientifically proven to treat forms of melanosis and keratosis due to chronic arsenic poisoning, remove heavy metals from the blood and in-prove alkalinity, and induce muscle-gain and correct anemia in both HIV-infected and HIV-negative undernourished children.
Along with all of these incredible health benefits, it tastes good to boot! And I personally loved my Pro(tien)coco-Carob Puddin' so much that I decided that will be my recipe for today, except, of course, I couldn't just show you the same thing twice(Now that would just be boring). So instead I decided to get all snazed up and put it into a video. I hope you-like :)
Chef de Mocha act I ... and action >> by the way "Wonder" is the word of the day :)
Friday, November 16, 2007
Cacao, Who needs it? - .. Um .. Everyone
Cacao! Just the word alone arouses the senses – Doesn’t it? Back in my glory days of old, I would pound down Coco-Pebbles and Cookies & Cream bars until I was blue in the face. After going raw I haven’t had that ‘Luxury’, thank god, and have since, ventured on an expedition to find the raw, ‘glory’, food that can replace such items. That’s when I stumbled upon David Wolfe’s book, The Naked Chocolate. A’ Las, my Chocolate devouring inner-child finally found the treat He desired. After tasting my first piece of raw chocolate I was hooked. Since then I have a constant stash of Chocolate on supply and usually have some raw Chocolate bars well hidden from the relentless eyes of my parents.
Also, I couldn’t discuss chocolate any further without mentioning it’s outstanding health benefits and astronomical ORAC rating( As David Wolfe would say, “ It’s the Best ORAC Ever!”). Although Cacao is a very addictive and powerful food, I once again want to reiterate that it’s a POWERFUL food and should be consumed in moderation along with the many other “superfoods” that are on the market today.
With all of that said, without further A’ due – Cacao Alchemy(Cacao brownies 3 Ways):
*Aztec's Peace of Mind
- 1C Cacao, Ground
- 1&1/2C Almonds
- 1/2C Flaxoil
- 1Tbsp Stevia
- (spear)mint, not too much(1tsp max)
0 Salt
0 Drop of wintergreen essential oil
*Aztec's Beating Heart:
- 1C Cacao, Ground
- 1&1/2C Almonds
- 1/4C each:Flaxoil&Cocowater
- 1Tbsp Stevia
- 1/4C Goji Berries, soaked
0 Salt
*Aztec's enriched spirit:
- 1C Cacao, Ground
- 1&1/2C Almonds
- 1/4C each:Flaxoil&Hempoil
- 1Tbsp Stevia
- 1/4C Hempnuts
0 Salt
0 Cayenne
Makes about 12 Brownies each
The Pictures correspond to the recipies. I hope you enjoy, I know My cuz and I did :)
Mocha
Also, I couldn’t discuss chocolate any further without mentioning it’s outstanding health benefits and astronomical ORAC rating( As David Wolfe would say, “ It’s the Best ORAC Ever!”). Although Cacao is a very addictive and powerful food, I once again want to reiterate that it’s a POWERFUL food and should be consumed in moderation along with the many other “superfoods” that are on the market today.
With all of that said, without further A’ due – Cacao Alchemy(Cacao brownies 3 Ways):
*Aztec's Peace of Mind
- 1C Cacao, Ground
- 1&1/2C Almonds
- 1/2C Flaxoil
- 1Tbsp Stevia
- (spear)mint, not too much(1tsp max)
0 Salt
0 Drop of wintergreen essential oil
*Aztec's Beating Heart:
- 1C Cacao, Ground
- 1&1/2C Almonds
- 1/4C each:Flaxoil&Cocowater
- 1Tbsp Stevia
- 1/4C Goji Berries, soaked
0 Salt
*Aztec's enriched spirit:
- 1C Cacao, Ground
- 1&1/2C Almonds
- 1/4C each:Flaxoil&Hempoil
- 1Tbsp Stevia
- 1/4C Hempnuts
0 Salt
0 Cayenne
Makes about 12 Brownies each
The Pictures correspond to the recipies. I hope you enjoy, I know My cuz and I did :)
Mocha
Thursday, November 15, 2007
They must have done something right - Aztecs
Once more, I must reiterate how the Aztecs' surely have done some amazing things.
-Ruled over Central America for sum 300yrs
-Developed exasperating architecture
-And, what I feel is the most important aspect of the Aztec life style, created new agricultural methods.
Anyone who has ever met me knows that I can go on all day discussing the Aztec’s culture, but I solemnly promise to you(my readers) that I will not fall astray, So instead I rather share the tale of three. Yes, just three and to make it even better, It will be distributed throughout the total of three Days!
So I hereby declare this weekend nation Aztec Weekend, in which I will share with you three of the wonder foods of the Aztecan diet:
-Cacao: David Wolfe’s heavy hitter will be addressed first.
-Spirilina: The Wonders of Algae shall be day numero dos.
-Quinoa: And the so-called ‘Mother Grain’ will be last.
So for now, I bid you A’ due and tomorrow we will venture into the Land of the Jaguar.
-Ruled over Central America for sum 300yrs
-Developed exasperating architecture
-And, what I feel is the most important aspect of the Aztec life style, created new agricultural methods.
Anyone who has ever met me knows that I can go on all day discussing the Aztec’s culture, but I solemnly promise to you(my readers) that I will not fall astray, So instead I rather share the tale of three. Yes, just three and to make it even better, It will be distributed throughout the total of three Days!
So I hereby declare this weekend nation Aztec Weekend, in which I will share with you three of the wonder foods of the Aztecan diet:
-Cacao: David Wolfe’s heavy hitter will be addressed first.
-Spirilina: The Wonders of Algae shall be day numero dos.
-Quinoa: And the so-called ‘Mother Grain’ will be last.
So for now, I bid you A’ due and tomorrow we will venture into the Land of the Jaguar.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Day in My Kitchen
Today I would say I was inspired by The Mid-Eastern Culture. Yesterday I messed up my Dinner Recipie and today I was determined to get it right.
Breakfast
*Pro(tien)co-Carob Pudin’
- 1C CocoMeat
- Almonds, Sprouted
- Spirillina & Cholerella
- Cocowtr
- Carob
0 Stevia
0 Salt & Cayenne
*Aztec Smoothie
- Quinoa, Sprouted
- Goji Berries
- Cocowtr
- Bee Pollen
- Flaxoil
Lunch
*Quinoa Kitchnry
- Quinoa(2&1/2C – 4C), Sprouted
- Herbs(Parsley & Cilantro)
- Flaxoil(2Tbsp-1/4C) >> 2Tbsp If 4C Quinoa & 1/4C if 2&1/2C
- 1 Tbsp each: Coriander, Cumin, & Mustard Seed
- 1-1&1/2C CocoWtr
0 Salt & Ginger
*Veggie-Cumin Pate
*Sprout Salad W/ Tahini Apple Dressing
- 1 Apple, Juiced
- 2 Tbsp ACV
- 1 Tbsp Nut Butter
0 Black Pepper
0 Curry
Dinner
And here comes the beasty :) *Raita
- 2c Mixed Fruit & Veg of Choice, diced(I used grn apple & sprouts)
- 1 Coconut’s Meat
- 1 Cucumber
- 1 Tomato
- Herbs(Mint & Basil)
- 1 Tsp each: Cumin, Coriander, Mustard Sd
-1/2 Lemon, Juiced
0 Ginger, Salt, & Cayenne
0 Cocowtr
*Mocha's Tum Yum Yogurt
Breakfast
*Pro(tien)co-Carob Pudin’
- 1C CocoMeat
- Almonds, Sprouted
- Spirillina & Cholerella
- Cocowtr
- Carob
0 Stevia
0 Salt & Cayenne
*Aztec Smoothie
- Quinoa, Sprouted
- Goji Berries
- Cocowtr
- Bee Pollen
- Flaxoil
Lunch
*Quinoa Kitchnry
- Quinoa(2&1/2C – 4C), Sprouted
- Herbs(Parsley & Cilantro)
- Flaxoil(2Tbsp-1/4C) >> 2Tbsp If 4C Quinoa & 1/4C if 2&1/2C
- 1 Tbsp each: Coriander, Cumin, & Mustard Seed
- 1-1&1/2C CocoWtr
0 Salt & Ginger
*Veggie-Cumin Pate
*Sprout Salad W/ Tahini Apple Dressing
- 1 Apple, Juiced
- 2 Tbsp ACV
- 1 Tbsp Nut Butter
0 Black Pepper
0 Curry
Dinner
And here comes the beasty :) *Raita
- 2c Mixed Fruit & Veg of Choice, diced(I used grn apple & sprouts)
- 1 Coconut’s Meat
- 1 Cucumber
- 1 Tomato
- Herbs(Mint & Basil)
- 1 Tsp each: Cumin, Coriander, Mustard Sd
-1/2 Lemon, Juiced
0 Ginger, Salt, & Cayenne
0 Cocowtr
*Mocha's Tum Yum Yogurt
Loving Sprouts & Living Foods
For my first post I would like to address an instrumental part of my progression as a raw foodist, which is the issue of sprouting. Sprouting predigests the food, which is the process that begins breaking down complex molecules into their simpler forms and more easily absorbed forms(Fats-Fatty Acids, Proteins-Amino Acids, Carbohydrates - Simple Sugars) and also increases their nutrients dramatically. These "Biogenic" foods are still growing which makes them so much more viable to the body and, as an added benifit, they contain such high level of Life Force energy. As Dr. Cousens simply puts it, "It is the difference of the Bioactivity of a growing child Vs. that of an Aging adult." -Also the fat in a sprouted Almond changes its Configuration(the "Cis" isomer of fat) transforms into it's more active form and begins to link and bond w/ other fatty acids(otherwise more fat is changed from monounsaturated into Polyunsaturated fat).
Since growing and sprouting almost all the food I eat(about 70%Sprouts & 30%Raw Food) I feel such a renewed sense of being and energy. I know all the Love and Energy that goes into growing and making all the wonderful recipes they help me create; and I know my body thanks Me in return.
Blessings,
Mocha
-Here are some Pics.
^^Some Sprouts basking in the sun b4 being Harvested^^
^^The left one is layered w/WheatGrass & Sunflower and the right one is 4 diff. types of sprouts^^
^^ Got to have the Kombucha thing going on - 7 days in.^^
^^Some freshly Sprouted Quinoa^^
^^And finally, a delicious meal made from sprouts(sprouted – Almonds, Greens, and Veg.)^^
^^Another wonder Sprouted Meal^^
^^Action Shot^^
Any Q’s feel free to ask.
-I will start updating the website w/some of my favorite recipies - I just thought the first post should be more informitive over-all.
Since growing and sprouting almost all the food I eat(about 70%Sprouts & 30%Raw Food) I feel such a renewed sense of being and energy. I know all the Love and Energy that goes into growing and making all the wonderful recipes they help me create; and I know my body thanks Me in return.
Blessings,
Mocha
-Here are some Pics.
^^Some Sprouts basking in the sun b4 being Harvested^^
^^The left one is layered w/WheatGrass & Sunflower and the right one is 4 diff. types of sprouts^^
^^ Got to have the Kombucha thing going on - 7 days in.^^
^^Some freshly Sprouted Quinoa^^
^^And finally, a delicious meal made from sprouts(sprouted – Almonds, Greens, and Veg.)^^
^^Another wonder Sprouted Meal^^
^^Action Shot^^
Any Q’s feel free to ask.
-I will start updating the website w/some of my favorite recipies - I just thought the first post should be more informitive over-all.
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