As of a few days ago, I've been Vegan for one month! :) I'm proud of myself. No, it's not easy. It surely isn't convenient... especially living in the Dairy State. Mostly, I am proud because even with my faults, I am wanting to continue this lifestyle.
I have been thinking a lot about altering my "version" of Vegan however. There are many items that I miss and haven't been able to find replacements that are both tasty and veg friendly. Part of this may be do to the fact that I have lost my companion on this mission. Francisco has decided that being Vegan simply isn't for him. It makes me sad and makes me feel somewhat alone on this journey. I know the convenience factor is big for him and also the temptations that are around. Now I feel like I'll just be a burden to him when we go out to eat or when I cook.
I have gone through nightmare after nightmare with relationships, so I won't allow being Vegan to get in our way. He is without a doubt the only guy I've ever been with that I can call my best friend. He is my world. Part of me wants him to realize that I am doing this for health reasons and convenience doesn't matter to me. Plus I want someone to be there and help me with this, take the ride with me. I know he will always be supportive in anything that I do, but I want to do this together. Even if that means reverting to being a Vegetarian versus being a full blown Vegan, so be it. I don't think that will be good enough for him however. He eats meat... that's just who he is. Yes, people change, but in his culture I don't know if he will want to.
Looking the long term effects that dairy has on a females body is devastating. With higher risks of heart attacks, breast cancer, and all sorts of other nasty things, I have a hard time consuming some of the littlest amounts.
Maybe I am just ahead of my time. It's only a matter of the rest of the population becoming educated, before everyone else is a vegetarian. Perhaps I will be a trend setter? Haha. I don't know. At this point in time, I am hoping that when I relocate for work that it is to a veg-friendly location. I am just to the point that I am at a loss for words when I think about being on my own doing this. None of my friends are veg-heads or even understand why I am pursuing this life. Hell, I've even caught myself questioning it. I'm not on a mission to prove anyone wrong or even set an example. I am on a mission to be healthy.
That being said, it has been really hard at work as well. I am now in the kitchen and am handling proteins on a daily basis. From prepping chicken breasts to slicing 80 lbs of brisket, it has been extremely hard on me. For one, I love to cook and I am good at it. These are dishes that I used to make all the time. Two, a good chef tastes everything that they put out. I can't do that with about 90% of the items I am producing. And three, I am constantly having to explain my lifestyle to people who are some serious carnivores. It's getting old. Really old.
So that, plus Francisco not wanting to accompany me in being Vegan anymore... The stress is starting to get to me. I am crabby for no reason except being stressed out (which is stupid). I find myself being short with Francisco and I can't even tell you why. Maybe I am a little disappointed, but I certainly don't want to be upset about it! Ugh, so dumb. I attempt to keep my attitude in check with him and at work. It's hard to be around all these amazing aromas and not be crabby though! I know that it is all seasoning and not the actual meat that I'm smelling, but good Lord! If you could smell what I smell. It's like Iron Chef in that kitchen, I swear.
Let's hope this upcoming week is a bit easier. Obviously I need to speak with Francisco about what is going on and what I am feeling. I am pretty sure he has no idea how I feel. I know he has noticed my stress levels being high and also being tired from work, but that is no reason to be crabby toward him. He treats me like a goddess, and I am willing to do just about anything to make it right. :) After all, I love him.
Monday, March 18, 2013
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Week 3.5 - The Domino Effect
Over the last few weeks, I have been open about my drive to change my life. It started out as a way to become healthier on a long-term scale. Then it morphed into a way to better the world I live in and the future world of my, also future, children. Plus, it is more humane for the animal kind. And now, being Vegan has become 2 very simple things: being an educator and being a role model.
In the beginning, my boyfriend and I started out on this venture to try something new... More or less. His guiding light being very different from mine, we both maintain our new way of life by being a support system for one another. With both my frustrations and triumphs, I have shared every detail with anyone who is curious or questions why I have converted. It has resulted in something greater than I could ever imagine. Something I never knew was possible. I have impacted the life and health of others. Wow. It is hard to believe that just by watching a a few movies and reading a couple studies, and sharing my findings, that I could change the lives of so many people.
It started off with Francisco. Then my best friend joined in by eating more organic foods and cutting out the processed items. She also has a six year old daughter who she is trying to teach good habits to, as well. BAM! That's 3 lives impacted right there.
However today's events stole the gold. A woman that I work with, to whom I look up to as a motherly figure, took my by surprise. Sheer shock to be exact. She sits across from me at lunch almost everyday. We usually discuss life, men, the weather... You know, working things mixed with female things. haha. But today- Well, today was different. She sits down in front of me and tells me that I am a beautiful girl. That my face is thinner and my eyes are brighter. -If I hadn't have known better, I would have thought she was hitting on me.- I take a moment to bask in the shower of compliments that she is throwing my way. In the midst of glowing in my innocent glory, I looked down. Time stopped. This is a woman who usually has a plate full of variety... including meat and dairy. This was not the case today. She had a plate of veggies and fruit! She still has meat on her plate, but she didn't consume it. It was more for the purpose of using the tomato sauce that it was in.
She took the time to tell me that she cut out milk, all meats, and soda. I was speechless. It dawned on me that there is a trend going on right now. People are using me as an example, and making healthier decisions in everyday life. What an honor to say the least.
With my co-worker being the 4th person and many Facebook friends following my conversations and asking for advice, it is safe to say that I have made an impact. I am happy that I can share my knowledge and that others are at least interested, if not intrigued, by my notion. It is a greatness that I have never known. It's like a fire was lit within me. I am glad, and more than happy, to help anyone at any time if they have questions or concerns.
On the note of being an educator and a role model, it has been rather interesting in retrospect. Going to the grocery store and encountering lost men in the produce department has become somewhat of a calling for me. I was at my local grocer and a man approached me as I was pricking out avocados. He asked about them being ripe and then about the items in my cart. My cart was full of fresh green produce and measured bags of beans. He spotted the Tofu and then the questions started rolling out! I had an answer for all of them... Other than when he asked if being Vegan had any correlation to my being pale. I jokingly told him that I was naturally pasty. As my shopping continued on past our conversation, I spotted this same man down numerous aisles checking in the ingredients of items before he was placing them in the cart.
This has shown me that the influence of one person can be much larger than anticipated. It wasn't my intention to alter the eating habits of strangers at the super market by becoming Vegan, starting a blog, or even by sharing my story. This was a decision about life and happiness, not one to change the world. But if the man at the grocery store who asked me about avocados altered his shopping that day, and if I can be a role model for my friends and family- I am thankful...
PS: Anyone see the Veg Out Justin Timberlake skit on SNL this past Saturday? HA! Priceless. And all the more reassuring that I am on the right path.
In the beginning, my boyfriend and I started out on this venture to try something new... More or less. His guiding light being very different from mine, we both maintain our new way of life by being a support system for one another. With both my frustrations and triumphs, I have shared every detail with anyone who is curious or questions why I have converted. It has resulted in something greater than I could ever imagine. Something I never knew was possible. I have impacted the life and health of others. Wow. It is hard to believe that just by watching a a few movies and reading a couple studies, and sharing my findings, that I could change the lives of so many people.
It started off with Francisco. Then my best friend joined in by eating more organic foods and cutting out the processed items. She also has a six year old daughter who she is trying to teach good habits to, as well. BAM! That's 3 lives impacted right there.
However today's events stole the gold. A woman that I work with, to whom I look up to as a motherly figure, took my by surprise. Sheer shock to be exact. She sits across from me at lunch almost everyday. We usually discuss life, men, the weather... You know, working things mixed with female things. haha. But today- Well, today was different. She sits down in front of me and tells me that I am a beautiful girl. That my face is thinner and my eyes are brighter. -If I hadn't have known better, I would have thought she was hitting on me.- I take a moment to bask in the shower of compliments that she is throwing my way. In the midst of glowing in my innocent glory, I looked down. Time stopped. This is a woman who usually has a plate full of variety... including meat and dairy. This was not the case today. She had a plate of veggies and fruit! She still has meat on her plate, but she didn't consume it. It was more for the purpose of using the tomato sauce that it was in.
She took the time to tell me that she cut out milk, all meats, and soda. I was speechless. It dawned on me that there is a trend going on right now. People are using me as an example, and making healthier decisions in everyday life. What an honor to say the least.
With my co-worker being the 4th person and many Facebook friends following my conversations and asking for advice, it is safe to say that I have made an impact. I am happy that I can share my knowledge and that others are at least interested, if not intrigued, by my notion. It is a greatness that I have never known. It's like a fire was lit within me. I am glad, and more than happy, to help anyone at any time if they have questions or concerns.
On the note of being an educator and a role model, it has been rather interesting in retrospect. Going to the grocery store and encountering lost men in the produce department has become somewhat of a calling for me. I was at my local grocer and a man approached me as I was pricking out avocados. He asked about them being ripe and then about the items in my cart. My cart was full of fresh green produce and measured bags of beans. He spotted the Tofu and then the questions started rolling out! I had an answer for all of them... Other than when he asked if being Vegan had any correlation to my being pale. I jokingly told him that I was naturally pasty. As my shopping continued on past our conversation, I spotted this same man down numerous aisles checking in the ingredients of items before he was placing them in the cart.
This has shown me that the influence of one person can be much larger than anticipated. It wasn't my intention to alter the eating habits of strangers at the super market by becoming Vegan, starting a blog, or even by sharing my story. This was a decision about life and happiness, not one to change the world. But if the man at the grocery store who asked me about avocados altered his shopping that day, and if I can be a role model for my friends and family- I am thankful...
PS: Anyone see the Veg Out Justin Timberlake skit on SNL this past Saturday? HA! Priceless. And all the more reassuring that I am on the right path.
Sunday, March 10, 2013
Vegan Recipes I & Cooking Essentials
This edition is for those who don't really like to cook.
You'll be able to obtain many of these items at your everyday grocer. Some of them will be at a location that either is specialty OR at a grocer with a wider variety.
First off, Amy's Kitchen is a great option for those who don't cook at all. This company has Vegan and Veg options. From frozen entrees to dehydrated dishes and amazing salad dressings, Amy's is a name you should become very familiar with.
Another brand is Bob's Red Mill. JACK POT!!!! This one is my personal favorite. Bob's has Flour, Meals, Cereals, Granola, Mixes, Grains, Seeds, Beans, Oats, Entrees, Baking Aids, and Gluten Free options as well. Not all items are Vegan friendly however. Make sure to read the ingredients (mostly on the entrees and baking aids). Plus they also are made in the US! Out in Milwaukie, OR. Their site also has many recipes :) The following is one that I am making today for lunch:
Bob's Red Mill- Vegi Soup Mix
-"Contains green split peas, yellow split peas, barley, lentils and vegetable pasta (semolina wheat flour, dehydrated spinach and tomato). No seasonings are added--use your favorites..."
Basic
1 cup Vegi Soup Mix
4 cup Water
Amanda's Recipe
1 cup Vegi Soup Mix
2.5 cup Water
2.5 cup Vegatable Broth (low sodium prefered)
1 small Yellow Onion
3 medium Carrots
1 large Green Bell Pepper
1 cup freshly cut tomato (stewed will work as well)
2 cloves garlic
1 tsp Thyme
1 tsp Oregano
.5-1 Bay Leaf (your own preference)
1 Tbs salt
1 tsp paprika
2 Tbs Worcestershire sauce
3 Tbs Olive Oil
-Chop/dice the veggies to your liking. I like a chunkier texture, however there aren't noodles in this soup. The lentils are small, so I would dice ;)
-In a large stock pot, add Water and Broth over medium heat. Bring liquid to boil while you prep the next step.
-In a medium pan over medium-low heat, add the Olive Oil. Once it is properly heated, add the Carrots and the Bell Pepper. Stir so they don't stick or burn. Then add the Onion and Garlic. Be sure the heat isn't too high at this point. If it is, the garlic will burn and it will be extremely bitter.
-Add Vegi Soup Mix to the boiling water. Reduce to a simmer, while you complete your saute of the veggies.
-Once the veggies are tender, but not soft, add them to the stock pot. Mix together and set the timer for roughly 45 minutes. The stock pot should be at a simmer and uncovered.
-Stir occasionally to enure nothing sticks.
-Taste the soupe broth to make sure you like the flavor. If it is too strong, add more broth or water. If it is too weak, add more spices (usually more Thyme and Oregano... perhaps some cracked black pepper??)
-Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve in deep bowls with whole wheat buns. :)
Another awesome recipe is my own personal conconction! I used to work at Panchero's, which is similar to a Chipotle or Qdoba. The only difference is that we made our tortillas fresh, right in front of the customer. We also made more "authentic" versions of Mexican cuisine. (Even though Burritos and Fajitas are an American adaptation of Mexican food. Tex-Mex so to speak).
Amanda's Tofu and Black Bean Taco Filling with Cilantro Rice
I prefer spicy, please feel free to tone down the heat by omitting the pepper flakes and jalepeno. :)
.5 container of Extra Firm Tofu
1 medium chopped Yellow Onion
1 large diced Jalepeno
1 can Organic Black Beans
1 cup Long Grain Brown Rice
1 cup diced Fresh Cilantro
4 Tbs Ground Cumin divided
2 Tbs Salt divided
2 Tbs Paprika
4 Tbs Garlic Powder
2 Tbs Olive Oil
3 Tbs Soy Spread (aka Vegan fake butter)
2.5 cups Cold Water
-In a medium sauce pan, add Water and Soy Spread over medium heat. (For this one, you are pretty much going to follow the cooking directions on the bag of rice haha). ** We use cold water everytime we boil water because it is fresh and hasn't been sitting in your water heater.
-In a medium skillet, heat Olive Oil over meadium flame.
-Saute the Jalepeno and Onion until tender.
-Place Tofu in a bowl, and crumble with a fork. Add half of the Cumin, Garlic Powder, Salt, and ALL of the Paprika. Mix gentely in bowl. Then add to the skillet. **Almost like you are "browning" the Tofu, we just want to heat it through and get the flavors to combine.
-Add the Rice, Cilantro, and other halves of Cumin, Garlic Pwder, and Salt to the sauce pan of boiling water. Reduce to simmer and cover for 15 mins. (or until tender and water is gone).
-Drain canned Black Beans and rinse vigerously. Make sure to rid of the syrupy liquid at the bottom of the can. Then add to the skillet with the Tofu.
-Make sure to fluff the rice before you serve. All the extras will most likely be at the top if you don't.
* Variations: You can add regular Taco Seasoning to this instead of the spice mix listed.
Toppings of substantial nutritional value:
Chopped Spinach rather than Iceberg Lettuce
El Milagro Corn Tortillas, heated ion a skillet or over an open flame , are your best option for authentic flavor. This is better than a flour tortilla, but we all knew that!
Fresh Pico de Gallo or Roasted Corn Salsa. (You can purchase these or make them ahead of time. Pico is the easiest thing EVER to make at home)
Ripe Avocado - I like to salt mine or use Lime salt.
Cilantro
Lime Wedge - the acid breaks the heat from the Jalapeno.
Cholula or Valentina Hot Sauce (Peach/Red Label... NOT THE BLACK ONE!)
Enjoy!
You'll be able to obtain many of these items at your everyday grocer. Some of them will be at a location that either is specialty OR at a grocer with a wider variety.
First off, Amy's Kitchen is a great option for those who don't cook at all. This company has Vegan and Veg options. From frozen entrees to dehydrated dishes and amazing salad dressings, Amy's is a name you should become very familiar with.
Another brand is Bob's Red Mill. JACK POT!!!! This one is my personal favorite. Bob's has Flour, Meals, Cereals, Granola, Mixes, Grains, Seeds, Beans, Oats, Entrees, Baking Aids, and Gluten Free options as well. Not all items are Vegan friendly however. Make sure to read the ingredients (mostly on the entrees and baking aids). Plus they also are made in the US! Out in Milwaukie, OR. Their site also has many recipes :) The following is one that I am making today for lunch:
Bob's Red Mill- Vegi Soup Mix
-"Contains green split peas, yellow split peas, barley, lentils and vegetable pasta (semolina wheat flour, dehydrated spinach and tomato). No seasonings are added--use your favorites..."
Basic
1 cup Vegi Soup Mix4 cup Water
Amanda's Recipe
1 cup Vegi Soup Mix
2.5 cup Water
2.5 cup Vegatable Broth (low sodium prefered)
1 small Yellow Onion
3 medium Carrots
1 large Green Bell Pepper
1 cup freshly cut tomato (stewed will work as well)
2 cloves garlic
1 tsp Thyme
1 tsp Oregano
.5-1 Bay Leaf (your own preference)
1 Tbs salt
1 tsp paprika
2 Tbs Worcestershire sauce
3 Tbs Olive Oil
-Chop/dice the veggies to your liking. I like a chunkier texture, however there aren't noodles in this soup. The lentils are small, so I would dice ;)
-In a large stock pot, add Water and Broth over medium heat. Bring liquid to boil while you prep the next step.
-In a medium pan over medium-low heat, add the Olive Oil. Once it is properly heated, add the Carrots and the Bell Pepper. Stir so they don't stick or burn. Then add the Onion and Garlic. Be sure the heat isn't too high at this point. If it is, the garlic will burn and it will be extremely bitter.
-Add Vegi Soup Mix to the boiling water. Reduce to a simmer, while you complete your saute of the veggies.
-Once the veggies are tender, but not soft, add them to the stock pot. Mix together and set the timer for roughly 45 minutes. The stock pot should be at a simmer and uncovered.
-Stir occasionally to enure nothing sticks.
-Taste the soupe broth to make sure you like the flavor. If it is too strong, add more broth or water. If it is too weak, add more spices (usually more Thyme and Oregano... perhaps some cracked black pepper??)
-Let cool for 5 minutes before serving. Serve in deep bowls with whole wheat buns. :)
Another awesome recipe is my own personal conconction! I used to work at Panchero's, which is similar to a Chipotle or Qdoba. The only difference is that we made our tortillas fresh, right in front of the customer. We also made more "authentic" versions of Mexican cuisine. (Even though Burritos and Fajitas are an American adaptation of Mexican food. Tex-Mex so to speak).
Amanda's Tofu and Black Bean Taco Filling with Cilantro Rice
I prefer spicy, please feel free to tone down the heat by omitting the pepper flakes and jalepeno. :).5 container of Extra Firm Tofu
1 medium chopped Yellow Onion
1 large diced Jalepeno
1 can Organic Black Beans
1 cup Long Grain Brown Rice
1 cup diced Fresh Cilantro
4 Tbs Ground Cumin divided
2 Tbs Salt divided
2 Tbs Paprika
4 Tbs Garlic Powder
2 Tbs Olive Oil
3 Tbs Soy Spread (aka Vegan fake butter)
2.5 cups Cold Water
-In a medium sauce pan, add Water and Soy Spread over medium heat. (For this one, you are pretty much going to follow the cooking directions on the bag of rice haha). ** We use cold water everytime we boil water because it is fresh and hasn't been sitting in your water heater.
-In a medium skillet, heat Olive Oil over meadium flame.
-Saute the Jalepeno and Onion until tender.
-Place Tofu in a bowl, and crumble with a fork. Add half of the Cumin, Garlic Powder, Salt, and ALL of the Paprika. Mix gentely in bowl. Then add to the skillet. **Almost like you are "browning" the Tofu, we just want to heat it through and get the flavors to combine.
-Add the Rice, Cilantro, and other halves of Cumin, Garlic Pwder, and Salt to the sauce pan of boiling water. Reduce to simmer and cover for 15 mins. (or until tender and water is gone).
-Drain canned Black Beans and rinse vigerously. Make sure to rid of the syrupy liquid at the bottom of the can. Then add to the skillet with the Tofu.
-Make sure to fluff the rice before you serve. All the extras will most likely be at the top if you don't.
* Variations: You can add regular Taco Seasoning to this instead of the spice mix listed.
Toppings of substantial nutritional value:
Chopped Spinach rather than Iceberg Lettuce
El Milagro Corn Tortillas, heated ion a skillet or over an open flame , are your best option for authentic flavor. This is better than a flour tortilla, but we all knew that!
Fresh Pico de Gallo or Roasted Corn Salsa. (You can purchase these or make them ahead of time. Pico is the easiest thing EVER to make at home)
Ripe Avocado - I like to salt mine or use Lime salt.
Cilantro
Lime Wedge - the acid breaks the heat from the Jalapeno.
Cholula or Valentina Hot Sauce (Peach/Red Label... NOT THE BLACK ONE!)
Enjoy!
Saturday, March 9, 2013
Week 3: Shopping at Woodman's & Trying to Influence Healthy Choices
The past week has been interesting to say the least. I've had my ups and downs, especially with my S.A.D. but I have also had some awesome break throughs.
My body is still detoxing, I think. I have had many odd food cravings, as well as, been physically sickened by being around people who were consuming McDonald's. I've been working like crazy, so naturally I am hungry a lot. With my S.A.D. I have been craving carbs and salt. Lot's of peanut butter toast. And I don't even like peanut butter! Weird.
I've been investigating more recipes and organic foods. I am finding that a lot of the online recipes are wither bland or are all the same. Kale with garlic and lemon, beans with more beans, or hummus. Anyone who can cook can make vegan dishes, why aren't we publishing alternate ingredients?!
Take the Egg. As a full blown Vegan, you can't have this item. However, when you are cooking or baking, sometimes you need an egg and the substitutes just aren't the same. Here are a few alternate options for 1 Egg:
1 Tbs Flax seed + 3 Tbs Water (puree for 1 min)
-
.5 Banana (mashed)
-
1/4 cup Silken Tofu
-
3 tbs Peanut Butter
-
2 Tbs Baking Powder + 2 Tbs Water + 1 Tbs Oil
-
1/4 cup Applesauce
-
2 Tbs Cornstarch + 3 Tbs Water (pre mix)
Flash Forward:
Today my best friend, Jessica, and I went to Woodman's. It is an employee owned grocer with more of a selection. Selection, Service, and Savings is their motto. Long story short, they have a HUGE vegan/vegetarian/organic selection! I was in awe. Soy frozen desert a.k.a. soy ice cream, non-dairy. There are frozen pizzas, calzones, and pastas for vegans. They are a little pricey, but completely worth it. The next aisle down there is the veg/organic selections as far as cereals, dried items, spices, and everything in between. I spent a good amount of times just looking at costs vs ingredients. Most of the items contained less than 3 ingredients. AWESOME!!!! Compared to the similar items that are cheaper and have processed items in them. They are half as expensive, yes. However, they contain 15 ingredients. I felt really good about myself spending the extra money on things that I have to actually cook and that are healthy for you.
I spent $108 and left with nothing but healthy and vegan friendly items. I also found that many oriental and mexican items are veg friendly. Works out perfect as I love a variety in my food. There are currently about 7 pounds of beans and rice noodles on my shelf. :)
I was so happy with all things I purchased and I wanted to make Cuban Bean soup. The plans changed a bit. When we came home, the new oven still hasn't arrived. Chipotle for dinner it is! This also allows me more time to take down some baking recipes. I have dying for a damn chocolate chip cookie!!!!
My body is still detoxing, I think. I have had many odd food cravings, as well as, been physically sickened by being around people who were consuming McDonald's. I've been working like crazy, so naturally I am hungry a lot. With my S.A.D. I have been craving carbs and salt. Lot's of peanut butter toast. And I don't even like peanut butter! Weird.
I've been investigating more recipes and organic foods. I am finding that a lot of the online recipes are wither bland or are all the same. Kale with garlic and lemon, beans with more beans, or hummus. Anyone who can cook can make vegan dishes, why aren't we publishing alternate ingredients?!
Take the Egg. As a full blown Vegan, you can't have this item. However, when you are cooking or baking, sometimes you need an egg and the substitutes just aren't the same. Here are a few alternate options for 1 Egg:
1 Tbs Flax seed + 3 Tbs Water (puree for 1 min)
-
.5 Banana (mashed)
-
1/4 cup Silken Tofu
-
3 tbs Peanut Butter
-
2 Tbs Baking Powder + 2 Tbs Water + 1 Tbs Oil
-
1/4 cup Applesauce
-
2 Tbs Cornstarch + 3 Tbs Water (pre mix)
Flash Forward:
Today my best friend, Jessica, and I went to Woodman's. It is an employee owned grocer with more of a selection. Selection, Service, and Savings is their motto. Long story short, they have a HUGE vegan/vegetarian/organic selection! I was in awe. Soy frozen desert a.k.a. soy ice cream, non-dairy. There are frozen pizzas, calzones, and pastas for vegans. They are a little pricey, but completely worth it. The next aisle down there is the veg/organic selections as far as cereals, dried items, spices, and everything in between. I spent a good amount of times just looking at costs vs ingredients. Most of the items contained less than 3 ingredients. AWESOME!!!! Compared to the similar items that are cheaper and have processed items in them. They are half as expensive, yes. However, they contain 15 ingredients. I felt really good about myself spending the extra money on things that I have to actually cook and that are healthy for you.
I spent $108 and left with nothing but healthy and vegan friendly items. I also found that many oriental and mexican items are veg friendly. Works out perfect as I love a variety in my food. There are currently about 7 pounds of beans and rice noodles on my shelf. :)
I was so happy with all things I purchased and I wanted to make Cuban Bean soup. The plans changed a bit. When we came home, the new oven still hasn't arrived. Chipotle for dinner it is! This also allows me more time to take down some baking recipes. I have dying for a damn chocolate chip cookie!!!!
Friday, March 1, 2013
Week 2: Changes, Will Power, and Eating Out
So concludes Week 2 of Veganism. It's been an interesting week to say the very least. I've had a lot of discussions on why I am doing this, how I received all of my information, how I know my information is correct, and all sorts of recipe suggestions as well.
As mentioned before, I work in the hospitality business. Naturally, there are a lot of Mexican Natives that I am working with daily. Being the only Caucasion female in my department, I tend to be the topic of discussion quite frequently. Often times the crew are just curious about my lifestyle. (You should have seen their faces when I told them I am dating a Mexican. Ha! Priceless!)
Maria translates for me. However, many of the others, I am able to understand with my very limited Spanish skills. Most recently Maria was telling me that the ladies noticed I had lost some weight. I told her that I hadn't started an extreme workout regiment, but that I cut out all animal products. You would have thought I stopped a train with my bare hands!!! The ladies came flocking in to stare and ask questions. One woman even told me that my face was more oval shaped now, compared to a circle before. Uhmm... Thanks? It was a bit overwhelming, to be honest. I pretty much recapped my entire last post to them and told them that I was making a lot of dishes that resembled Mexican classics or had the same flavor palates. Tofu & Bean Tacos with (Brown) Cilantro-Lime Rice. Moroccan Chili. "Refried Bean" concoctions. Corn tortillas are almost a nightly staple. A lot of Cumin and Garlic in just about everything as well.
I have also cut out all carbonated beverages. I am drinking fresh lemon water and green tea. Both of which boost your metabolism and help with the digestive process. I do indulge in a Soy Chai Tea Latte from Starbucks about twice a week. (PS- Chai Seed is amazing for your body as well.)
I am more energized these days. However, I am finding that if I don't snack some something in between meals, I start to slow down. The hardest part is being in a full service hotel. There is always food around. Cookies, brownies, ice cream, pasta dishes loaded with cheese or sausage. Having to say no, at first, was really hard. Now, I find it rewarding. It sounds awful to say, but when I watch someone eat something like an ice cream sundae: I think about how their body is reacting to that. Pure sugar intake, that turns almost 90% into fat right away. I instantly feel better about my decision to have carrots!
The best part of the week happened Wednesday. Francisco and I went to Stack'd, a local Veg friendly restaurant just outside of the Historic 3rd Ward in Milwaukee. We ordered Homemade Hummus for an app, Black Bean burgers for our entrees, and each had a cocktail. When I ordered my Bloody Maria, I didn't think twice about it. Then it was placed in front of me and just about peed myself. It comes with a beef stick and a huge chunk of cheese! UGH!!!!! This used to be the only reason I would order it. :( Now I had to surpass the great tradition of chewing on a processed animal limb and then detach the orangy-yellow cube of my great state's number one source of income off my drink! Francisco and I made eye contact immediately. He says, "I'm gonna do it! I'm going to cheat!" He took the beef stick off the tiny cocktail trident, popped it in his mouth and chewed twice. "Nope! Gross, I can't do this." HE SPIT IT OUT! In that moment I was a proud mama bear watching her eldest cub hunt for the first time. I was nothing but smiles after that... Even when I was disposing of my Cheddar Cube. I mean, I still had the pickle and olive! :)
Our food was amazing and the waiter/bartender was outstanding. I highly recommend stopping in if you are ever in Milwaukee. This place isn't for the weak though. It is actually a burger bar, that just so happens to have Vegan friendly items: Vegan Cheeze, Veganaisse, Portobello Burger, Black Bean Burger, Hummus and many additional items that are Gluten Free! They also have a FABULOUS beer selection. Some really off the wall items. Not to mention, they infuse their own vodkas. :)
I will be at my house for the next 4 nights, as opposed to being in Milwaukee with Francisco. The house is full of meat loving, veggie over cooking, excessive cheese using people. Let's see how well this pans out... I will be cooking my own meals. Francisco will be there with me for at least 1 or 2 nights. Hopefully we can support each other and not cave to the temptation of baked goods and cheesy broccoli.
As mentioned before, I work in the hospitality business. Naturally, there are a lot of Mexican Natives that I am working with daily. Being the only Caucasion female in my department, I tend to be the topic of discussion quite frequently. Often times the crew are just curious about my lifestyle. (You should have seen their faces when I told them I am dating a Mexican. Ha! Priceless!)
Maria translates for me. However, many of the others, I am able to understand with my very limited Spanish skills. Most recently Maria was telling me that the ladies noticed I had lost some weight. I told her that I hadn't started an extreme workout regiment, but that I cut out all animal products. You would have thought I stopped a train with my bare hands!!! The ladies came flocking in to stare and ask questions. One woman even told me that my face was more oval shaped now, compared to a circle before. Uhmm... Thanks? It was a bit overwhelming, to be honest. I pretty much recapped my entire last post to them and told them that I was making a lot of dishes that resembled Mexican classics or had the same flavor palates. Tofu & Bean Tacos with (Brown) Cilantro-Lime Rice. Moroccan Chili. "Refried Bean" concoctions. Corn tortillas are almost a nightly staple. A lot of Cumin and Garlic in just about everything as well.
I have also cut out all carbonated beverages. I am drinking fresh lemon water and green tea. Both of which boost your metabolism and help with the digestive process. I do indulge in a Soy Chai Tea Latte from Starbucks about twice a week. (PS- Chai Seed is amazing for your body as well.)
I am more energized these days. However, I am finding that if I don't snack some something in between meals, I start to slow down. The hardest part is being in a full service hotel. There is always food around. Cookies, brownies, ice cream, pasta dishes loaded with cheese or sausage. Having to say no, at first, was really hard. Now, I find it rewarding. It sounds awful to say, but when I watch someone eat something like an ice cream sundae: I think about how their body is reacting to that. Pure sugar intake, that turns almost 90% into fat right away. I instantly feel better about my decision to have carrots!
The best part of the week happened Wednesday. Francisco and I went to Stack'd, a local Veg friendly restaurant just outside of the Historic 3rd Ward in Milwaukee. We ordered Homemade Hummus for an app, Black Bean burgers for our entrees, and each had a cocktail. When I ordered my Bloody Maria, I didn't think twice about it. Then it was placed in front of me and just about peed myself. It comes with a beef stick and a huge chunk of cheese! UGH!!!!! This used to be the only reason I would order it. :( Now I had to surpass the great tradition of chewing on a processed animal limb and then detach the orangy-yellow cube of my great state's number one source of income off my drink! Francisco and I made eye contact immediately. He says, "I'm gonna do it! I'm going to cheat!" He took the beef stick off the tiny cocktail trident, popped it in his mouth and chewed twice. "Nope! Gross, I can't do this." HE SPIT IT OUT! In that moment I was a proud mama bear watching her eldest cub hunt for the first time. I was nothing but smiles after that... Even when I was disposing of my Cheddar Cube. I mean, I still had the pickle and olive! :)
Our food was amazing and the waiter/bartender was outstanding. I highly recommend stopping in if you are ever in Milwaukee. This place isn't for the weak though. It is actually a burger bar, that just so happens to have Vegan friendly items: Vegan Cheeze, Veganaisse, Portobello Burger, Black Bean Burger, Hummus and many additional items that are Gluten Free! They also have a FABULOUS beer selection. Some really off the wall items. Not to mention, they infuse their own vodkas. :)
I will be at my house for the next 4 nights, as opposed to being in Milwaukee with Francisco. The house is full of meat loving, veggie over cooking, excessive cheese using people. Let's see how well this pans out... I will be cooking my own meals. Francisco will be there with me for at least 1 or 2 nights. Hopefully we can support each other and not cave to the temptation of baked goods and cheesy broccoli.
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