#Smoked Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry

[askwhatsforlunch]

Smoked Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry (Vegan)

This tasty Smoked Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry makes a lovely and easy lunch --especially if you only have to walk in the garden to pick Bell Peppers! Cutting the carrots will be the longest step, then it all comes together quickly and deliciously!

Ingredients (serves 2):

2 large carrots, rinsed

1/2 green Bell Pepper, rinsed

1/2 red Bell Pepper, rinsed

1 1/2 tablespoon toasted sesame oil

1/2 large onion

100 grams/3.5 ounces firm smoked tofu

1/4 teaspoon Red Chili Flakes 

2 tablespoon soy sauce

Peel carrots, and cut them into thin strips.

Seed green and red Bell Peppers, and cut them into thin strips as well.

Heat a large wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add sesame oil.

Stir in carrots strips, and sauté, a couple of minutes. Then add red and green Bell Peppers strips.

Peel and thinly slice onion, and stir into the wok. Cook, a couple of minutes more.

Cut smoked tofu into strips too, and stir into the wok. Sauté, 1 minute.

Season with Red Chili Flakes and deglaze with soy sauce. Reduce heat to medium, and cover with a lid. Cook, about 8 to 10 minutes more until carrots are just tender but keep a bit of their bite.

Serve Smoked Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry hot.

[vegietribe]

A HEALTHY VEGAN GROCERY LIST

There are so many astounding vegan foods out there, you may be surprised by just how many choices there are! Here are a couple of examples of some of the foods, vegans eat.

FRUITS & VEGETABLES

Purchase fruits and vegetables from all the categories beneath. Pick up affordable basics like carrots, apples, bananas, and celery, and supplement with produce that’s in season.

FRUITS

Frozen fruit is useful for smoothies and baking. Previously frozen fruit was used for topping oatmeal or non-dairy yogurts. Dried fruit can be taken on the go with nuts or can be used as a topping for breakfast cereal, and in baking.

Apples Pears Kiwis Oranges Grapefruit Lemons Limes Peaches Plums Nectarines Bananas Raspberries Blackberries Watermelon Honeydew Cantaloupe Apricots Grapes Mangoes Cherries Strawberries Last but not least, Blueberries

FROZEN

Strawberries Raspberries Blueberries Mixed berry blends Sweet cherries Mango Mixed fruit blends

DRIED

Raisins Currants Cranberries Apricots Dates Figs Apple slices Lastly, Banana chips

VEGETABLES

Purchase a couple of vegetables to eat crude in salads, sandwiches, or with dips. Pick up at least 1-2 mixed greens for salad bases and sandwiches. Choose an assortment of fresh or frozen vegetables that are really great for steaming, sautéing,  stir-frying, and roasting. Frozen vegetables are an extraordinary staple and are exceptionally flexible.

FRESH (RAW & COOKING)

Broccoli Carrots Celery Cauliflower Cucumbers Snap peas Tomatoes Bell peppers Avocado

FRESH (COOKING)

Zucchini Mushrooms Squashes Asparagus Kale Garlic

FRESH (LEAFY GREENS)

Baby Kale Baby Spinach Romaine Butter Lettuce Leaf Lettuce Salad Mixes

FROZEN

Broccoli Asparagus Spinach Corn Peas Edamame Stir-fry mixes

GRAINS, BEANS & LEGUMES

Keep at least 2, 100% whole grain bakery products on hand for making sandwiches, wraps, or pitas. These products freeze well so keep a selection in your freezer and simply defrost single servings as needed. Keep 2-3 whole grains or starches & a couple of beans, legumes, and soy items. Blend and match them and add a vegetable side dish for a complete meal. The cereal is incredible to keep on hand for easy & healthy breakfasts.

100% WHOLE WHEAT

Bread Tortillas English muffins Bagels Pitas Pasta

WHOLE GRAINS & STARCHES

Oatmeal (quick, rolled, or steel-cut) Brown rice Quinoa Seitan (wheat gluten) Sweet Potatoes Russet Potatoes

BEANS & LEGUMES

Chickpeas (canned/dry) Black Beans (canned/dry) Kidney Beans Lentils (dry) Hummus Veggie Burgers (lentil, bean, or vegetable-based) Edamame (frozen)

SOY PRODUCTS

Firm Tofu Soft/ Silken Tofu Smoked/ Marinated Tofu Tempeh Soy milk

You can read out the amazing blogs & recipes at Vegie Tribe. Vegie Tribe an assortment of vegan foods.

[achubbydumpling]

lazy cooking part 1

I thought I'd share some of my go to recipes since I always get overwhelmed when I'm looking for something new to cook and the ingredients list is like 12 things and you need a pan, a pot and an oven and three hours to prep veggies and weigh everything to the gram

also idk if it's the adhd but when I'm hungry I want food now (or less than an hour from now) I usually cook enough for a few days but if you were so inclined you could definitely eat this for a single meal 👀 just saying..

One Pot Pasta with Tomato Sauce and Coconut Milk

Ingredients

pasta

strained tomatoes

coconut milk

onion

garlic

salt

Optional add-ins:

spices of your choice (I like paprika, chili flakes and cumin)

something acidic (e.g. lemon/lime juice, vinegar)

vegetables (I usually buy frozen, soup mix or broccoli, but use what you like best)

smoked tofu (so good!! add some of the water in the package to the sauce too)

Measurements

I measure in parts because that's easier for me to remember, so for this it'd be 1/3 pasta, 1/3 tomatoes, 1/3 coconut milk. In exact measurements for me that's usually 500g pasta, 500ml tomatoes, 400ml coconut milk + 100ml of water.

Instructions

Peel the amount of garlic and onion you want, fry them in oil if you're feeling fancy, but you can also just put them in the pot with the rest.

(I usually do one onion to three garlic cloves because it's not supposed to be garlic-y, just add some flavour)

Add pasta, strained tomatoes and coconut milk to the pot as well as salt, pepper, spices and lemon juice if you have it. Mix everything.

Put the covered pot on the stove on medium-low heat.

(I have an electric stove with the dial 1-5 and I put it on 2, basically low enough that it doesn't immediately burn if you walk away or don't stir constantly).

Stir occasionally until the pasta has soaked up a noticeable amount of the sauce. Then turn down the heat (I put it on 1) keep stirring occasionally until the pasta has your preferred consistency. Then leave the pot covered on the stove to cool for as long as you can take it. (If you're really hungry you could just eat it right after turning off the heat, but this tastes even better the longer you cook it or as leftovers.)

And done!

You can also make this in the microwave. Add everything to a microwave safe container, put a lid on it and pop it in the microwave for 2-3 times the time it says on the pasta container. Don't forget to stir occasionally. Take the pasta out once it's reached your desired texture.

I hope you enjoy this one pot pasta. It usually lasts me ~five meals (3x dinner, 2x lunch) if I add some frozen veggies, salad and/or tofu to the meal.

It won't win a beauty contest but it's tasty!

[organicpalmjaggery]

Kachi Ghani Groundnut Oil: A Nutritious and Flavorful Choice for Your Kitchen

Kachi Ghani Groundnut Oil, also known as cold-pressed peanut oil, is a traditional cooking oil that has been used in Indian kitchens for generations. Extracted from high-quality groundnuts using the age-old Kachi Ghani technique, this oil retains its natural flavor, aroma, and nutrients. Unlike refined oils, which are processed using high heat and chemicals, Kachi Ghani Groundnut Oil is made using a cold-pressing method, ensuring the oil remains pure and rich in nutrients. In this blog, we’ll explore the health benefits, culinary uses, and reasons why Kachi Ghani Groundnut Oil is an excellent choice for your kitchen.

The Nutritional Benefits of Kachi Ghani Groundnut Oil

Kachi Ghani Groundnut Oil is packed with nutrients that are essential for a balanced diet. Here are some of the key health benefits:

Rich in Healthy Fats: Kachi Ghani Groundnut Oil is a great source of monounsaturated fats, which are known to promote heart health. These healthy fats help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) while increasing good cholesterol (HDL), thus supporting cardiovascular health.

High in Antioxidants: This cold-pressed oil is loaded with antioxidants, including Vitamin E, which helps protect the body from free radical damage. Antioxidants play a vital role in reducing inflammation, improving skin health, and boosting immunity.

Source of Plant Sterols: Kachi Ghani Groundnut Oil contains plant sterols, which have been shown to lower cholesterol levels in the body. Including this oil in your diet can be beneficial for those aiming to maintain a healthy heart.

Rich in Omega-6 Fatty Acids: Omega-6 fatty acids are essential for maintaining healthy brain function and regulating metabolism. Kachi Ghani Groundnut Oil provides a balanced amount of these fatty acids, contributing to overall health and wellness.

Supports Digestive Health: The cold-pressed nature of Kachi Ghani Groundnut Oil means it is free from harmful chemicals, making it easy to digest. It is also known to have a mild laxative effect, supporting digestive health when consumed in moderation.

Culinary Uses of Kachi Ghani Groundnut Oil

Kachi Ghani Groundnut Oil is versatile and can be used in a variety of cooking methods, from frying to sautéing. Its rich, nutty flavor enhances the taste of dishes while providing a healthy alternative to refined oils. Here are some ways to use it in your kitchen:

Deep Frying: Thanks to its high smoke point, Kachi Ghani Groundnut Oil is perfect for deep-frying. Whether you’re making crispy pakoras, samosas, or fried chicken, this oil ensures your food cooks evenly and remains light and crispy.

Sautéing and Stir-Frying: Its mild nutty flavor makes Kachi Ghani Groundnut Oil an excellent choice for stir-frying vegetables, meats, or tofu. It adds a unique aroma and taste to dishes, making them more flavorful.

Baking: Kachi Ghani Groundnut Oil can also be used as a substitute for butter or margarine in baking. From cookies to cakes, this oil keeps baked goods moist and adds a subtle nuttiness that enhances their flavor.

Salad Dressings: For a healthy twist, use Kachi Ghani Groundnut Oil in your salad dressings. Mix it with lemon juice, herbs, and spices to create a nutritious, heart-healthy dressing that adds a nutty flavor to your greens.

Traditional Indian Dishes: Kachi Ghani Groundnut Oil is a staple in many Indian kitchens, especially in regions like Gujarat and Maharashtra. It is often used for making traditional dishes like Thepla, Undhiyu, and various curries, where its aroma and flavor complement the spices beautifully.

Why Choose Kachi Ghani Groundnut Oil Over Refined Oils?

Choosing Kachi Ghani Groundnut Oil over refined oils has multiple advantages:

Preserves Nutrients: The cold-pressing method used in Kachi Ghani retains the natural nutrients of the oil, unlike refined oils, which often lose their nutritional value due to high-temperature processing.

No Harmful Chemicals: Kachi Ghani Groundnut Oil is free from artificial preservatives, additives, and chemicals, making it a pure and safe option for daily use.

Eco-Friendly Process: The traditional Kachi Ghani method is environmentally friendly, as it involves minimal processing and no harmful emissions, making it a sustainable choice.

Adya Organics Kachi Ghani Groundnut Oil: The Purest Choice for Your Kitchen

For those seeking a high-quality option, Adya Organics’ Kachi Ghani Groundnut Oil is an excellent choice. Sourced from organic groundnuts and processed using traditional cold-pressing methods, Adya Organics ensures that each bottle is packed with the purity and goodness of nature. Free from chemicals and refined additives, this oil maintains its natural flavor and nutrients, providing you with a healthy and delicious cooking experience.

Kachi Ghani Groundnut Oil is more than just an ingredient; it's a healthful addition to your kitchen that offers numerous nutritional benefits and culinary versatility. Its rich flavor and high smoke point make it ideal for various cooking methods, from frying to baking. By choosing Kachi Ghani Groundnut Oil, like Adya Organics’ premium product, you can enjoy a healthy, pure, and flavorful cooking experience that benefits your health and enhances your meals.

[froginthemachine]

It's crazy how easy good habits become when you integrate them meaningfully and let them become habits. Like, a year ago I was eating whatever the hell I felt like and however much I felt like. I could not imagine a life without huge amounts of cheese and added sugars and shit.

And then I had to live with my parents again for a little bit, which I thought would be the end of the world, but I needed those few months there - and while I was there I ate whatever weird plant-based shit my mom cooked and introduced better things with good associations in my life.

Now my ass is making like quinoa and tofu and stir-frying vegetables and shit all the time and my meals are delicious and taste just like Mama used to make. I don't feel the need to smoke a fat blunt and eat a bunch of cookies. I don't even want to anymore. I still eat pizza and chocolate and ice cream and all the good shit, no reason to give it up, but they're special now. I feel and look great, sure, but most importantly my brain is THRIVING now that it's properly nourished. I'm not saying go be a vegan health nut (please don't) but I'm saying, sometimes it takes a while, but when you look back you're bewildered at how much better everything is just because you made your everyday life a little different, a little better over time. All these things help your brain a whole lot, as much as I always fought it before.

[babii-demi-demon]

Beluga babii Part One

Ezili

♡》albino babii

♡》highly social and gregarious

♡》innocent and curious nature

♡》extremely vocal and expressive

♡》mimics words and sounds

♡》communicates using a variety of vocalizations, including squeals, squeaks, chirps, clicks, claps, moos, twitters, whistles, and rattles

♡uses bubbles creatively for communication

♡》playful and loves interacting with others

♡》enjoys rubbing against Daddii

♡》extremely curious about the environment and new experiences

♡》moves at a slow pace, enjoying a more relaxed lifestyle

♡》loves to sing and hum to themselves or with Daddii

♡》prefers colder environments and likes being in or near water

♡》finds comfort in cuddles, enjoys lots of sleepy snuggles and naps

♡》shows affection through touch, often rubbing against surfaces or loved ones

♡》enjoys swimming, particularly backwards, which is a fun and unique trait

♡》feels a sense of fear or anxiety around orcas and polar bears, which are considered scary

♡》adventurous eater, she likes to try new foods and flavours, especially anything sea related. She gets really excited when she gets to try new dishes

♡》she usually feels more active and playful at night

Favourite Foods:

Favourite Breakfasts:

♡》blueberry pancakes

♡》yogurt parfait with granola and berriis

♡》oatmeal with honey and banana

♡》soft-boiled eggs with toast soldiers (strips of buttered toast for dipping in the yoke)

♡》smoothie bowl

♡》french toast with cinnamon and berriis

♡》cream cheese bagel with smoked salmon

♡》fruit salad

♡》scrambled eggs with cheese

♡》cinnamon roll

♡》porridge with berriis and honey

♡》banana pancakes

♡》smoothie with spinach and pineapple

♡》breakfast muffins (filled with blueberries, bananas, or chocolate chips)

♡》toast with avocado and poached egg

Favourite Lunches:

♡》grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup

♡》tuna salad with crackers

♡》veggie and cheese wraps

♡》tomato soup with cheese toast

♡》tuna salad sandwiches

♡》pasta salad with vegetables

♡》peanut butter and jelly sandwiches

♡》egg salad sandwiches

♡》noodle soup

♡》fruit and yoghurt bowl

♡》macaroni and cheese

♡》tuna melt

♡》veggie wrap with hummus

♡》spinach and cheese quesadilla

♡》mini pizzas

♡》rice and steamed vegetables with soy sauce

♡》cauliflower chicken nuggets with dipping sauce

♡》avocado toast with sliced tomatoes

♡》cucumber sandwiches

♡》sushi

♡》shrimp cocktail

♡》miso soup with seaweed and tofu

♡》kelp noodles

♡》fish and chips

♡》octopus salad

♡》calamari rings

♡》seaweed salad

♡》chow mein with shrimp

♡》ceviche

♡》crab cakes

♤》crab rangoon

Favourite Dinners:

♡》baked salmon with steamed vegetables

♡》creamy pasta with mushrooms

♡》fish sticks with mashed potatoes

♡》fish sticks with mac and cheese

♡》rice and grilled salmon

♡》cheesy veggie lasagna

♡》cauliflower chicken tenders with sweet potato fries

♡》tuna casserole

♡》shrimp scampi

♡》vegetable stir-fry with rice

♡》macaroni and cheese with broccoli

♡》soft fish tacos

♡》baked cod with quinoa

♡》pasta with marinara and parmesan

♡》stuffed bell peppers

♡》mushroom and veggie pot pie

♡》creamy tomato soup with grilled cheese

♡》linguine with clam sauce

♡》sushi

♡》shrimp cocktail

♡》kelp noodles

♡》creamy lobster mac and cheese

♡》baked salmon with dill sauce, rice, and steamed veggies

♡》marinated octopus

♡》fish and chips

♡》baked stuffed lobster

♡》steamed mussels with white wine sauce

♡》fish chowder

♡》baked whitefish with herbs

♡》clam chowder

♡》octopus salad

♡》calamari rings

♡》mussels in garlic butter sauce

♡》crab legs

♡》fish tacos

♡》fried cod or halibut

♡》chow mein with shrimp

♡》stuffed clams

♡》seafood risotto

♡》seafood paella

♡》ceviche

♡》salted cod fritters

♡》seaweed salad rolls

♡》garlic butter prawns

♡》coconut shrimp

♡》prawn skewers

♡》shrimp tempura

♡》scallops

♡》lobster rolls

♡》crab cakes

♤》crab rangoon

Favourite Snacks:

♡》tuna bread

♡》goldfish crackers and fish-shaped cookies

♡》seaweed chips

♡》chips, veggies, and cookies (fish shaped)

♡》fish pâté on crackers

♡》crab dip with crackers

♡》string cheese

♡》sliced apples with honey or peanut butter or both

♡》graham crackers with marshmallow fluff

♡》soft pretzels with cheese dip

♡》cucumber slices with hummus

♡》blueberries and strawberries

♡》mini muffins

♡》animal crackers

♡》banana slices with chocolate or almond butter or both

♡》cheese cubes with grapes

♡》rice pudding with cinnamon

♡》popcorn

♡》peanut butter and crackers

♡》smoothie popsicles

♡》granola bars

♡》apple slices with caramel dip

Favourite Drinks:

♡》warm milk with honey (for winding down before bed)

♡》berrii smoothies

♡》hot chocolate with marshmallows

♡》apple juice

♡》vanilla milkshakes

♡》herbal Tea (chamomile or lavender)

♡》fruit punch

♡》coconut water

♡》strawberry lemonade

♡》banana smoothies

♡》warm vanilla or chocolate oat milk milk

♡》peach iced tea

♡》chocolate milk

♡》watermelon juice

♡》miint lemonade

♡》blueberry iced tea

♡》fruit-infused water

♡》mango lassi

♡》caramel milkshake

♡》cucumber lemon water

Favourite Desserts:

♡》vanilla or chocolate ice cream with marshmallow fluff

♡》blueberry pie with whipped cream

♡》banana pudding

♡》strawberry shortcake

♡》rice pudding with cinnamon

♡》soft sugar cookies

♡》chocolate pudding

♡》fruit sorbet

♡》peach cobbler with vanilla ice cream

♡》jelly roll cake

♡》tapioca pudding

♡》chocolate chip cookies

♡》mochi ice cream

♡》angel food cake with berriis

♡》coconut macaroons

♡》frozen toghurt with fruit

♡》lemon bars

♡》marshmallow rice krispie treats

♡》cheesecake with chocolate and strawberry topping

♡》cinnamon rolls

♡》pineapple upside-down cake

♡》caramel flan

♡》creme brulee

♡》mint chocolate chip ice cream

♡》brownies

♡》fruit tart

♡》peanut butter cookies

♡》pumpkin pie with whipped cream

♡》butter cookies

♡》cherry clafoutis

♡》butterscotch pudding

♡》ice cream sandwiches

♡》chocolate mousse

♡》pavlova

♡》coconut cream pie

♡》s'mores

♡》lemon sorbet

♡》blackberry cobbler

♡》peach ice cream

Likes:

♡》cold environments and swimming in cold waters

♡》singing, both solo and with Daddii

♡》playful activities that involve splashing or creating bubbles

♡》cuddling with Daddii, furbabies, and stuffiis

♡》exploring new objects by rubbing against them or playfully interacting

♡》nap times, especially when curled up in a cosy space with Daddii

♡》she loves listening to stories about the ocean, other marine animals, or magical underwater worlds. Prefers bedtime stories to be calming and centred around aquatic themes.

♡》music, especially songs that mimic the sounds of the ocean or have a soft, melodic tune. Likes lullabies and soft instrumental music; and sea shantys.

♡》fascinated by watching fish in aquariums or videos of underwater life. She finds it calming and enjoys learning about different sea creatures.

♡》she loves watching the weather change, especially rain or snow. Thunderstorms can be both exciting and a bit intimidating.

♡》she's drawn to anything that glitters or shines, reminiscent of sunlight reflecting off the water. She often collects shiny objects like beads, sequins, or small gems.

♡》she has a particular interest in seaweed and kelp, both as a snack and in play. She loves the feeling of soft, slippery plants between her fingers.

♡》she likes to mimic the movements of different sea creatures, such as gliding like a stingray, hopping like a dolphin, or swaying like seaweed.

♡》she finds fascination in human objects that resemble the sea or water, like glass marbles, water globes, or smooth stones.

♡》 she loves warm baths with sea salts and/or bath bombs that mimic the smell and feel of the ocean.

♡》she has a keen interest in learning about marine biology, particularly the behaviours of different sea creatures and ocean ecosystems

♡》bubble baths with lots of foam and floating toys that mimic the feel of being in the ocean

Dislikes/Fears:

♡》orcas and polar bears

♡》sudden loud noises that aren't part of familiar sounds

♡》overly warm environments that are uncomfortable

Activities:

♡》bubble play (blowing bubbles and watching them float; uses bubbles as a form of communication or play)

♡》vocal play (vocal exercises, mimicking words, and making various sounds for fun and communication)

♡》slow swimming

♡》cuddle sessions

♡》exploration

♡》interactive play

♡》water play enthusiast (playing with water toys such as floating rings, beach balls, and splash pads. Water guns and squirting toys are favourites for interactive play)

♡》she loves different textures and sensations and often explores with her mouth and tactile senses (items like soft blankets, textured toys, and squishy stress balls)

♡》she loves to express herself through drawing or painting, especially of marine life or underwater scenery (she likes to use pastels and colours that remind her of the ocean, like blues, greens, and whites)

♡》collecting shells, stones, or small trinkets that remind her of the ocean (she loves creating little collections or displays with her finds)

♡》pretends to be different sea creatures or to live in a magical underwater kingdom. Her toys help her to create elaborate ocean-themed adventures

♡》in addition to using bubbles for communication, she loves playing with bubble machines or blowing bubbles. She finds great joy in watching bubbles float and pop

♡》shows her caring side by taking care of Daddii, stuffiis, toys, or dolls, treating them like little sea animals that need protection and love

♡》she loves eating crushed ice cubes, slushies, or iciis

♡》in colder settings, she loves playing in the snow, building snow "coral reefs," or pretending snow mounds are underwater mountains

♡》she loves to dress up in ocean-themed costumes (like a mermaid, a pirate, or a sailor) and create stories around these characters

♡》she loves "dancing" underwater, whether in a pool, bathtub, or with the imagination (swirling movements mimic ocean currents and the grace of marine life)

♡》she loves going on treasure hunts, where she looks for hidden sea-themed trinkets or objects

♡》she loves playing games that involve water (like throwing water balloons, playing with water cannons, or creating mini waterfalls and dams)

♡》she loves play pretend scenarios where she "rescues" sea creatures in trouble

♡》she loves educational play (like matching games with different sea creatures or using sensory bins filled with sand, water, and small marine toys)

♡》crafts like seashell necklaces, fish-shaped paper cutouts, or clay models of sea creatures

Toys and Comfort Items:

♡》sea creatures stuffiis

♡》soft blankets with sea patterns

♡》water-activated toys

♡》sensory bottles

♡》musical sea shells

♡》teething rings

♡》weighted blanket

♡》sea-themed puzzles

♡》glow-in-the-dark stickers

♡》water beads

♡》cold gel packs

♡》foam sea life toys

♡》ocean-themed mobiles

♡》weighted stuffiis

♡》soft coral reef pillows

♡》glow-in-the-dark jellyfish tentacles

♡》aquarium night light

♡》sand and water sensory bins

♡》ocean sounds machine

♡》soft, flowing curtains

♡》hooded sea creature blankii

♡》marine-themed bedding

♡》plush coral reefs

♡》textured marine pillows

♡》aromatherapy diffuser with ocean scents

♡》underwater projection lamp

♡》fleece-lined robe

♡》stuffiis!

♡》ocean-themed educational books

♡》marine biology flashcards

♡》interactive sea life apps

♡》puzzle mats with ocean themes

♡》marine life documentaries

Wishlist:

♡》plush beluga whale stuffii

♡》ocean-themed weighted blankii

♡》underwater projection lamp

♡》bubble machine and bubble wands

♡》sensory toys with water beads

♡》ocean sounds sleep machine

♡》marine-themed storybooks

♡》sea creature bath toys

♡》seaweed-flavoured snacks

♡》aquarium-inspired sensory bottles

♡》marine-themed pjs

♡》mermaid or ocean creature costumes

♡》sea creature puppets

♡》floating pool toys

♡》soft coral reef stuffiis

♡》ice pop molds shaped like sea creatures

♡》glow-in-the-dark sea life stickers

♡》beluga-themed bedding set

♡》aquarium night light

♡》marine-themed craft kits

♡》interactive marine life apps and games

♡》sea creature plush backpack

♡》cold gel packs with ocean designs

♡》ocean-themed play mat

♡》mini aquarium and fish tank

Aesthetic:

Colour Palette:

♡》soft, cool tones that reflect the ocean and icy waters

♡》shades of white, light grey, pale blue, and soft teal

♡》occasional accents of soft pastels like blush pink or lavender

Textures:

♡》smooth, silky fabrics reminiscent of water

♡》soft, plush materials like faux fur or velvet that feel comforting and cosy

♡》weighted blankets with gentle textures like fleece or soft cotton are soothing for her

Imagery:

♡》ocean waves, bubbles, icebergs, and soft clouds

♡》gentle marine life like fish, crabs, and other sea creatures appear throughout, creating a calm, underwater world vibe

♡》beluga-themed stuffiis and soft glowing lights shaped like sea animals

Vibe:

♡》calm, serene, and playful

♡》the aesthetic should feel like being gently cradled by the ocean waves, with a mix of soothing cool tones and soft, comforting textures

♡》there’s a lighthearted, childlike sense of wonder, with playful bubble motifs and soft glow-in-the-dark stars that mimic a serene underwater sky

♡》soft, flowy curtains that mimic the movement of water

♡》glow-in-the-dark stars or ocean animals that softly illuminate the room

♡》nautical-themed décor, like starfish, seashells, and softly painted murals of the sea

♡》pastel stuffiis shaped like sea creatures, especially belugas, jellyfish, or fish

♡》water-themed sensory toys like bubble machines or smooth, flowing water fountains

♡》the aesthetic is light, airy, and tranquil, with a focus on the calming aspects of the ocean while also incorporating playful elements like bubbles and glowing sea creatures

♡》it’s a serene underwater world full of gentle, floating sensations, perfect for a peaceful, expressive babii beluga

Tranquil Spa Graphics Aesthetic:

♡》revolves around themes of serenity, calm, wellness, and peaceful environments

Colour Palette:

♡》soft blues, seafoam greens, pale silvers, and creamy whites

♡》these colours mirror the ocean, evoking a sense of floating in calm, clear waters

♡》light pastels such as lavender, blush pink, and soft coral are added for a playful touch, reminiscent of marine life and bubbles

Textures:

♡》smooth and silky fabrics like satin or soft cotton sheets mimic the feeling of water

♡》weighted plush blankets that resemble the sensation of gentle waves are important

♡》soft, plush surfaces in the form of cosy cushions or bean bags help create a cocoon-like space to feel safe

Imagery:

♡》underwater themes like flowing water, coral reefs, gentle bubbles, and peaceful sea creatures (fish, dolphins, sea turtles)

♡》delicate patterns of waves, fish scales, and abstract marine life on pillows, rugs, and wall art

♡》calm, soft lights such as salt lamps or dimming fairy lights add to the tranquil atmosphere

Vibe:

♡》peaceful, serene, and spa-like

♡》the aesthetic evokes a soothing retreat, where she can imagine being gently rocked by ocean waves or floating in calm waters

♡》the environment is designed to feel refreshing and rejuvenating, just like basking in the cool sea

♡》water features (like small indoor fountains that create a soft, gentle flow of water in the background)

♡》aromatherapy diffusers (with ocean-inspired scents like sea salt, eucalyptus, or soft mint)

♡》ocean-inspired stuffiis (belugas, dolphins, or jellyfish)

♡》plush, spa-like bathrobes and towels

♡》soft, aquatic lighting (cool-toned leds or fairy lights to simulate the dappled light of sunlight filtering through the water)

♡》it's designed to be a sensory retreat into a peaceful underwater world

♡》the soft, muted colours, smooth textures, and gentle lighting combine to create a serene space perfect for rest, relaxation, and playful expression

♡》the playful yet calming elements of water and marine life help her feel deeply connected to the ocean while also enjoying the cosiness and safety of their space

Favourite Clothing:

♡》soft, cosy textures (fabrics that feel smooth and soft against the skin, like silky satin pjs, fleece hoodies, and plush bathrobes that provide warmth and comfort)

♡》soft, oversized clothing helps her feel secure and snuggly, making her feel wrapped up like she's floating in the ocean

♡》loose and flowy (flowy tunics and long, oversized shirts are ideal for lounging and playing)

♡》ocean-inspired colours

Footwear:

♡》plush, soft slippers, or barefoot is her preference

♡》she likes to feel grounded and connected to her environment

♡》plush slippers shaped like sea creatures or simple, soft fabric slippers are favourites

Snuggly Accessories:

♡》plush hats or hooded blankets are favourites

♡》hooded blankiis in particular, with little beluga ears or a sea creature theme, provide a sense of safety and warmth

♡》she loves wrapping herself in these cosy accessories, especially during quiet play or nap time

Weighted Blankets, Wraps, Shawls, and Ponchos:

♡》weighted shawls or blankets that can be worn around the shoulders or wrapped around the body help her feel grounded

♡》these provide the comforting sensation of being hugged, much like she feels when floating gently in the water

♡》soft, weighted shawls, or ponchos are worn over regular clothes to provide extra comfort and warmth

♡》often made from materials like soft fleece or wool, they drape gently over the body, giving a sense of security and groundedness

♡》ocean-inspired designs, like wave patterns or fish scales

PJ Sets:

♡》soft, two-piece pj sets made from materials like cotton or bamboo, designed with fun ocean-themed prints (like bubbles, fish, or belugas), are the go-to outfits for winding down after a day of playful exploration

♡》they are perfect for both napping and cosying up during play

♡》soft pj sets featuring matching tops and bottoms with fun sea animal prints are a favourite for bedtime

Plush Onesies:

♡》soft, plush onesies with beluga or other ocean animal designs are favourites

♡》these onesies often come with hoods that have little ears, fins, or flippers

♡》the onesie wraps her in warmth from head to toe, mimicking the cosy sensation of floating in water

Water-Themed Socks:

♡》she loves soft, thick socks with water or ocean designs, like fish, waves, or bubbles

♡》these socks often come in pastel colours like soft blue, white, pink, and lavender

♡》plush, fuzzy socks with grippy bottoms are her go-to for running around indoors, giving her the freedom to explore while staying comfortable

Sea Creature Robes:

♡》plush robes shaped like sea creatures (belugas, dolphins, or jellyfish) are perfect for wrapping up after a bath or during quiet time

♡》the robe's hood usually has playful features like fins or flippers, making it both functional and fun

♡》the soft, plush material is comforting

Velvet or Satin Scrunchies:

♡》she enjoys wearing soft scrunchies in her hair, made from velvet or satin fabrics

♡》these scrunchies are in pastel colours like baby blue, seafoam green, and blush pink, adding a gentle pop of colour while keeping her hair out of her face during playtime

Long, Flowing Cardigans:

♡》lightweight, flowing cardigans in oceanic tones (blues, whites, and greys) are perfect for layering over pjs or casual clothes

♡》these cardigans offer her a sense of freedom and cosiness while moving, giving the feeling of being wrapped in a soft, flowing wave

Soft Cotton Dresses:

♡》for warmer days, she enjoys wearing loose-fitting, cotton dresses with ocean-inspired prints (like seashells, starfish, or coral patterns)

♡》these dresses are soft, breathable, and perfect for gentle movement during play or relaxation

♡》they come in pastel colours that evoke the sea and sky

Mermaid Tail Blankiis:

♡》when resting or watching movies, she loves snuggling into a plush mermaid tail blankii

♡》these blankiis are shaped like a mermaid's tail and come in shimmering ocean colours like teal, purple, and soft blue

♡》the cosy fit helps her feel like she's part of the underwater world she loves so much

Bubble Print Sweaters:

♡》soft, oversized sweaters with bubble patterns are a favourite for cooler days

♡》the sweaters are cosy, warm, and designed in calming ocean tones like baby blue or seafoam green

Water-Themed Headbands:

♡》she also loves wearing soft headbands in pastel colours, featuring ocean-themed accessories like starfish, seashells, or even a beluga charm

♡》these headbands are perfect for keeping hair back during sensory play or bath time

Daily Routine:

Morning Routine:

Waking Up:

♡》she wakes up slowly and gently, surrounded by soft ocean-themed bedding, such as a weighted beluga stuffii and bubble-patterned blankiis

♡》the room is softly lit by natural light filtering through flowy, seafoam-coloured curtains or dimmed with a soothing glow from a bubble-shaped nightlight

♡》she spends a few moments stretching and snuggling in bed, enjoying the soft textures of her blankets and feeling the comfort of being wrapped up like a beluga in its underwater home, and the warmth of her Daddii next to her

Morning Snuggles:

♡》after waking up, she loves to stay under the covers, cuddling with her Daddii and beluga stuffii, and letting the softness comfort her as she fully wakes up

♡》her and Daddii have some quiet, early morning snuggles, and He gently rubs her back and hums a soft tune, like the sound of gentle waves

Slow Rise:

♡》she slips out of bed, putting on her favourite soft, plush slippers, and a cosy robe

♡》a calm, water-themed playlist, or gentle nature sounds (like ocean waves, water rippling, or soft whale songs) plays in the background, setting the tone for a peaceful start to the day

Morning Hygiene:

♡》she heads to the bathroom for a gentle morning routine: brushing her teeth with a pastel-coloured toothbrush, skincare routine, and using a washcloth with ocean-themed prints (belugas, fish, or seashells)

♡》after freshening up, she puts on a soft, flowy outfit, like a loose-fitting tunic in light blue or seafoam green, with cosy, plush socks

Breakfast:

♡》she loves a calming breakfast that could include fruit salad with berries and melon, or yoghurt with a drizzle of honey and granola shaped like little fish or sea animals

♡》she sits in a cosy nook near a window or by a softly lit space where she can look outside at the sunlight, listening to the soft ambient sounds of the ocean in the background

♡》she likes to brush her teeth again after breakfast

Mid-Morning:

Slow Play and Exploration:

♡》after breakfast, she enjoys some gentle, sensory-based play

♡》she spends time playing with bubble machines, watching the bubbles float through the air, or sensory toys

♡》she might also explore a soft sensory tunnel, crawling through it slowly

♡》another favourite activity is engaging in water-themed crafts, like drawing or colouring sea creatures like fish, belugas, or jellyfish using soft pastel crayons or watercolours

Calming Exploration Time:

♡》mid-morning is a time for quiet exploration

♡》she may want to go on a gentle adventure around the house or yard, looking for hidden sea treasures like soft seashells, smooth stones, or sea-themed stuffiis

♡》she loves collecting small items or building underwater worlds with her stuffiis, toys, and pillows, creating imaginative scenes where she's exploring the sea

♡》during this time, she loves listening to stories about underwater adventures

♡》Daddii can read a nature story or play a soft audiobook about belugas and other ocean animals

Relaxing with Sensory Play:

♡》she engages in more sensory play, like dipping her hands into a shallow water table or bowl, playing with smooth, floating objects like shells or plastic sea animals

♡》this tactile experience helps her feel connected to water and the soft, slow movements she loves

Afternoon Routine:

Lunch:

♡》lunch is a calm, enjoyable experience, with a meal that includes light, simple foods like cucumber sandwiches, fruit skewers, or tuna salad with seaweed crackers

♡》she enjoys a quiet lunch in her favourite spots, either at a small table by the window or in a cosy nook

♡》gentle ocean sounds play in the background, and soft sea-inspired decorations create a peaceful atmosphere

♡》a cosy mermaid-tail blanket or weighted shawl keeps her comfortable as she eats, making the whole experience relaxing and soothing

Afternoon Playtime:

♡》the afternoon is a time for gentle, imaginative play

♡》she may spend time building a blanket fort or a cosy ocean cave using pillows, soft lights, and blankiis

♡》inside their blanket fort, she likes to bring along her favourite stuffiis (especially sea creatures like belugas, dolphins, or fish) and she likes pretending she's under the sea, going on slow, peaceful adventures

♡》she especially loves herturtle stuffiis and turtle sensory toys

Outdoor Time (If Weather Permits):

♡》if the weather is nice, she likes spending time outside, watching birds, or feeling the soft breeze

♡》she likes to slowly explore the outside, looking for hidden sea treasures like smooth stones or flowers

♡》alternatively, she also loves to sit in a shaded spot, quietly observing the clouds and imagining she's floating through the sea

Mid-Afternoon:

Afternoon Rest/Nap Time:

♡》after a peaceful lunch and playtime, it’s time for a quiet rest or nap

♡》she retreats to her bed or soft nook, curling up under a weighted blanket or inside a soft plush blanket fort

♡》she snuggles with Daddii and her favourite beluga stuffii, feeling the weight and softness comfort them as they listen to calming sounds of ocean waves, gentle whale songs, or soft lullabies

♡》her room is dimly lit, with soft glow-in-the-dark stars or bubbles decorating the walls, creating a peaceful, underwater-like atmosphere for rest

Quiet Time After Nap:

♡》after waking up from her nap, she enjoys a few moments of quiet time with a warm drink (like herbal tea or warm milk) and a snack, such as soft fruit slices or mini sandwiches

♡》she likes to relax with a soft sensory toy or engage in gentle activities like colouring or drawing ocean creatures, still wrapped in her cosy blanket or robe

Evening Routine:

Gentle Evening Activities:

♡》as the day winds down, she enjoys slow, relaxing activities, like arranging her stuffiis or looking through picture books with ocean scenes

♡》she loves snuggling into her plush beluga onesie or weighted shawl, feeling cosy and warm as she engages in quiet play

Evening Bath Time:

♡》bath time is a calming ritual for her

♡》she enjoys taking a warm bath with soft bubble bath or ocean-themed bath bombs that turn the water into soothing blue or green colours

♡》she plays with soft bath toys shaped like sea animals, slowly floating them around in the water, feeling connected to the ocean as they bathe

♡》after the bath, she wraps herself in a plush robe and enjoys the feeling of being warm and snug

Dinner:

♡》dinner is another gentle meal, featuring fish sticks, salmon, or another favourite seafood dish paired with veggies and seaweed chips

♡》dinner time is quiet, with soft music or ocean sounds playing in the background, and she likes sitting in her cosy spot, slowly savouring their meal

Night Routine:

Winding Down:

♡》after dinner, it’s time for winding down

♡》she enjoys gentle play with her toys and stuffiis, slowly arranging them or quietly playing with her bubble machine

♡》the lights are dimmed, and soft glow-in-the-dark elements in the room create a serene atmosphere

Bedtime Routine:

♡》before bed, she engages in a calm, quiet bedtime story about ocean adventures, sea creatures, or a peaceful underwater world

♡》she loves listening to Daddii read to her

♡》she slips into her soft pajamas with ocean prints (like belugas, seashells, or bubbles) and cuddle up under her weighted blanket

Final Snuggles and Sleep:

♡》the room is filled with soft, glowing lights from her beluga nightlight or glow-in-the-dark stars, and she snuggles with her Daddii and beluga or turtle stuffii

♡》the sound of ocean waves or whale songs helps lull her to sleep, creating a peaceful, dreamlike environment where she feels safe and secure

♡》as she drifts off to sleep, she imagines she's floating through the ocean, gently cradled by the soft currents and surrounded by peaceful sea life

Personality Traits:

♡》playful (she always enjoys fun, lighthearted activities like blowing bubbles, splashing in water, and engaging with soft toys, and she loves exploring the world around her with curiosity, often in a calm and gentle way)

♡》affectionate (she is very affectionate, seeking out physical closeness and connection, she loves to cuddle, and they often express her feelings through gentle touches and snuggles)

♡》curious (she's curious about her environment, she loves discovering new things and quietly exploring her surroundings, whether through gentle sensory play, observing animals, or engaging in imaginative adventures)

♡》expressive (she's highly vocal and expressive. She enjoys communicating her emotions, often using playful noises, giggles, and sounds to show how she feels. Her expressive nature makes her a joy to be around, as she's always sharing her joy and excitement)

♡》gentle (she has a very soft, tender side. she approaches everything with gentleness, from how she interacts with her environment to how she connects with others. she is never in a rush and prefers soft, slow movements that reflect her calm demeanour)

♡》sensitive (she is highly in tune with her emotions and her environment. she is easily affected by bright lights, loud noises, or sudden changes, preferring calm, soothing spaces. this sensitivity also makes her empathetic, as she picks up on the emotions of those around her and responds with care)

♡》sociable (she thrives in social settings, especially Daddii. she enjoys being around others, especially when playtime or exploration is involved. though she prefers calm, intimate settings over loud or crowded spaces, she loves engaging with others in gentle, fun activities)

♡》imaginative (she has a vivid imagination. she often dreams up underwater worlds or pretends to be swimming with other sea creatures. Her playtime is filled with imaginative stories and adventures, especially ones that involve the ocean and its wonders)

♡》loving (she is deeply connected to Daddii, and she expresses love in many forms—through snuggles, soft gestures, and affectionate actions. She enjoys building strong bonds and showing her Daddii how much she cares through these small but meaningful interactions)

♡》calm and serene (at her core, she is calm and peaceful, preferring a slow-paced life filled with comfort and tranquillity. she enjoys quiet moments of reflection and often seeks out peaceful environments to feel safe and relaxed)

Favourite Sensory Stimuli:

♡》water sounds

♡》soft, smooth textures

♡》bubbles

♡》glow-in-the-dark elements

♡》gentle vibrations

♡》light, soft music

♡》aromatherapy with ocean-inspired scents

♡》water play

♡》tactile toys

♡》soft lighting

Coping Mechanisms:

♡》snuggling with Daddii and weighted stuffiis

♡》crawling into a cosy blankii fort

♡》listening to water sounds

♡》sensory play with water

♡》gentle rocking or movement

♡》wrapping up in a weighted blankii with Daddii

♡》focusing on glow-in-the-dark sensory toys

♡》aromatherapy with light scents

♡》listening to calming music or whale songs

♡》slow breathing with Daddii

Notes for Daddii:

♡》gentle and soft approach (she responds best to a calm and gentle approach. Speak softly and move slowly around her to avoid overwhelming her sensitive nature. She thrives in environments that are peaceful and quiet, so always keep the tone of interactions low and soothing)

♡》provide snuggles and physical comfort (she is very affectionate and often seeks out physical comfort from Daddii. Offering snuggles, holding her hand, gently rubbing her back, pr massages can help her feel grounded and safe. Wrapping her in a soft blanket or allowing her to cuddle with stuffiis also brings her a sense of security)

♡》create a calming environment (she loves soft, dim lighting and gentle sounds. Use glow-in-the-dark stars or soft fairy lights to create a peaceful, underwater-like space. Background noises like ocean waves, rain sounds, or calming music will help keep her in a relaxed state. Keep the environment free of harsh lighting or loud noises that may overstimulate her)

♡》give her time to explore (she enjoys slow, gentle exploration, whether it's sensory play with water or crawling through tunnels. Give her plenty of time to explore at her own pace without rushing or pushing her into new activities too quickly. She finds comfort in taking things slowly and observing her surroundings)

♡》use tactile comfort items (encourage her to hold or snuggle with her favourite tactile items, such as weighted stuffiis, soft blankets, or sensory toys. These items help her self-soothe and provide comfort when she feels anxious or overstimulated)

♡》offer reassurance in overwhelming moments (if she becomes overwhelmed or anxious, offering quiet reassurance can help calm her down. Speak softly, tell her it’s okay, and remind her that she is safe. Allow her to retreat into a cosy space like a blankii fort or under pillows)

♡》incorporate water play for eelaxation (water play is very calming for her. Whether it’s a warm bath with floating toys or playing with bubbles in a shallow water table, these activities will help her relax and stay in a peaceful state. Bath time, in particular, can be a comforting end to the day, so allow her to unwind in the water at her own pace)

♡》keep transitions smooth (when transitioning from one activity to another, do so gently. She dislikes sudden changes or abrupt interruptions. Give her a heads-up before switching activities, using soft tones to let her know what’s coming next)

♡》stay close for comfort (while she enjoys moments of independent play and exploration, she also prefers knowing her Daddii is nearby. Stay close enough to offer comfort when needed, and check in with her to ensure she's feeling safe and secure)

♡》offer calming rituals for bedtime (bedtime is a sacred time for her. She loves calming routines such as snuggling in bed with Daddii and a soft stuffii, listening to ocean sounds or gentle music, and hearing a story. Create a consistent nighttime routine that helps her unwind and feel prepared for sleep)

Favourite Colours:

♡》seafoam green

♡》pale blue

♡》soft white

♡》lavender

♡》blush pink

♡》silver grey

♡》pale teal

Favourite Sounds:

♡》Daddii's voice

♡》ocean waves

♡》gentle rainfall

♡》whale songs

♡》bubbles popping

♡》soft wind chimes

♡》flowing water

♡》quiet birdsong

♡》soft instrumental music

♡》distant thunder

♡》whispering winds

Favourite Animals:

♡》belugas

♡》dolphins

♡》sea turtles

♡》jellyfish

♡》seals

♡》otters

♡》penguins

♡》manatees

♡》narwhals

♡》starfish

Favourite Weather:

♡》light rain

♡》overcast and cloudy

♡》cool breezy days

♡》foggy mornings

♡》snowy days

♡》gentle sunlight

♡》calm, windless evenings

♡》soft thunderstorms

Special Interests:

♡》marine life

♡》bubbles

♡》sensory water play

♡》glow-in-the-dark toys and decor

♡》soft textures and stuffiis

♡》underwater imaginary adventures

♡》ocean-themed crafts

♡》collecting seashells and ocean treasures

♡》watching sea-themed cartoons or shows

♡》calming music and whale songs

Favourite Stories and Books:

♡》the little beluga's big adventure

♡》under the sea: a journey through the ocean

♡》the snuggly sea creatures

♡》the gentle sea turtle's journey

♡》ocean dreams: a collection of bedtime stories

♡》the magical underwater kingdom

♡》whale songs and ocean wonders

♡》the sleepy dolphin's lullaby

♡》bubbles and waves

♡》turtle and friends' cosy ocean nook

Regression Triggers:

♡》hearing water sounds

♡》snuggling with Daddii and weighted stuffiis

♡》playing with bubbles

♡》crawling into a blankii fort

♡》glow-in-the-dark sensory toys

♡》bath time with floating toys

♡》being wrapped in a weighted blankii

♡》watching inderwater-themed cartoons or shows

♡》hearing whale songs or calming music

♡》playing with water

Calming Scents:

♡》Daddii

♡》sea breeze

♡》lavender

♡》eucalyptus

♡》ocean mist

♡》chamomile

♡》cucumber and melon

♡》vanilla

♡》mint

♡》coconut

♡》fresh linen

Favourite Playtime Themes:

♡》underwater adventures (she loves pretending she's exploring the ocean depths as a playful beluga whale. She imagines swimming alongside dolphins, turtles, and other sea creatures, discovering coral reefs and hidden treasures in a peaceful underwater world)

♡》bubble wonderland (playtime with bubbles is one of her favourite themes. She imagines floating through a magical bubble world, where she chases and pops bubbles that sparkle in the light)

♡》sea creature rescue mission (she pretends she's a hero rescuing sea animals in need of help. She creates soft, cosy shelters for her sea creature stuffiis and guides them to safety)

♡》exploring coral caves (she loves building blanket forts or pillow caves that mimic coral reefs. Inside these soft, enclosed spaces, she pretends to explore hidden caves and tunnels, imagining she's surrounded by colourful fish and glowing sea creatures)

♡》mermaid kingdom (sometimes she likes to pretend she's visiting a magical mermaid kingdom deep beneath the sea. She uses her imagination to create an underwater palace, where she interacts with friendly mermaids and other marine animals, enjoying a world filled with shimmering light and beauty)

♡》ocean treasure hunt (during playtime, she enjoys going on slow, gentle treasure hunts, searching for small, hidden treasures like seashells, smooth stones, or soft plush sea creatures hidden outside)

♡》bubble bath spa (during bath time or sensory play with water, she pretends she's at an underwater spa, surrounded by bubbles and calming water. She imagines relaxing alongside other sea creatures, enjoying the gentle sensation of water around them)

♡》floating in the sea (she enjoys quiet, imaginative play where she pretends to be floating gently in the sea, surrounded by soft waves. She uses weighted blankets or plush toys to create the sensation of being cradled by the ocean, bringing her a deep sense of calm)

♡》caring for sea creatures (she enjoys taking care of plush sea animals, like belugas, dolphins, and turtles. She feeds them, snuggle them, and helps them rest in cosy spaces, building strong emotional connections with her toys)

♡》glow-in-the-dark ocean world (using glow-in-the-dark stars, sea creature decals, or lights, she creates an imaginary world where she's swimming through a softly lit underwater scene. This play theme is particularly soothing at night, helping her wind down before bed)

Energy Levels:

♡》morning: slow and gentle (she starts the day slowly and gently, preferring calm, quiet activities. She enjoys soft, sensory play and relaxing routines like snuggling with plushies or listening to water sounds. Her energy is low and peaceful, as she takes her time waking up fully)

♡》mid-morning: curious and playful (as the day progresses, she becomes more curious and playful. She enjoys exploring sensory toys, building blanket forts, or going on gentle treasure hunts. Her energy is steady but calm, focused on slow, imaginative play)

♡》afternoon: low and relaxed (after lunch, her energy dips. She prefers quiet, restful activities like listening to stories, watching soft ocean-themed shows, or engaging in simple, creative tasks like colouring or playing with stuffiis. This is her most relaxed and reflective part of the day)

♡》evening: calming down (as evening approaches, her energy begins to wind down. She enjoys quiet, soothing activities, like bath time, snuggling in blankets, or soft sensory play with glowing toys. Her energy is low and focused on relaxation, preparing her for bedtime)

♡》bedtime: sleepy and cosy (by bedtime, she is fully relaxed, with very low energy. She seeks out comforting routines like cuddling with plush toys, listening to calming ocean sounds, and resting under a weighted blanket. Her energy is almost completely drained, leaving her ready for a peaceful night’s sleep)

Favourite Outings with Daddii:

♡》aquarium visits

♡》zoo trips (especially to the marine exhibit)

♡》beach walks

♡》botanical gardens with water features

♡》nature parks with lakes or rivers

♡》petting zoos with small animals

♡》water parks (especially lazy rivers and wave pools)

♡》boating on calm waters

♡》ice skating or visits to ice sculptures

♡》riverboat cruises

♡》swimming at a quiet pool

♡》tide pool exploration

♡》visiting a planetarium (especially ocean-themed shows)

♡》canoeing and kayaking in calm waters

♡》attending marine life shows

♡》watching the sunset over the water

♡》exploring an outdoor aquarium

♡》fishing in calm water

♡》snowy forest walks

♡》long, slow hikes

Favourite Hobbies:

♡》blowing and chasing bubbles

♡》water play and sensory exploration

♡》collecting seashells and smooth stones

♡》colouring and drawing ocean scenes

♡》building blankii forts

♡》watching marine life documentaries

♡》listening to whale songs or calming music

♡》crafting ocean-themed art

♡》playing with plush sea creatures

♡》nature walks by water

♡》reading ocean-themed books

♡》playing with glow-in-the-dark toys

♡》building with soft blocks

♡》sensory bottle creations

♡》floating toy races

♡》decorating play space

♡》relaxing in a swing or hammock

♡》ocean-themed puzzles

♡》soft sand play

♡》pretend fishing

Favourite Things to Do Outside:

♡》walking along the beach

♡》splashing in shallow water

♡》watching birds

♡》nature walks near water

♡》playing in the sand

♡》visiting the aquarium’s outdoor exhibits

♡》floating toys in a pool

♡》quiet boating on calm water

♡》exploring tide pools

♡》collecting seashells and stones

♡》playing with bubbles

♡》gardening with Daddii

♡》sitting by a fountain

♡》watching the sunset by water

♡》building sandcastles

♡》quiet canoeing and kayaking

♡》watching fish swim

♡》collecting driftwood or sea glass

♡》listening to nature sounds

♡》fishing with Daddii

♡》playing in leaf piles (fall)

♡》making sand or nature art

♡》visiting marine life sanctuaries

♡》exploring forest trails

Favourite Places to Go:

♡》aquariums

♡》beaches

♡》zoos

♡》botanical gardens

♡》lakes or ponds

♡》nature reserves

♡》river walks

♡》fountains in parks

♡》wildlife sanctuaries

♡》swimming pools

♡》lazy rivers at a water parks

♡》tide pools

♡》boat rides

♡》oceanfront boardwalks

♡》forest trail by streams

♡》planetarium (especially ocean-themed shows)

♡》outdoor aquarium exhibits

♡》butterfly gardens

♡》outdoor cafes by the water

♡》riverboat cruises

♡》petting zoos

♡》snowy parks in winter

♡》nature trails with a waterfall

♡》quiet meadows

♡》marine-themed playgrounds

♡》outdoor movie nights (water-themed movies)

♡》gardens with water features

♡》water parks

♡》canoeing and kayaking on a lake

♡》ice skating rinks (winter)

♡》waterfront parks

♡》lighthouse tours

♡》wildlife watching tours

Favourite TV Shows:

♡》octonauts

♡》blue planet

♡》finding dory: the series

♡》puffin rock

♡》the deep

♡》wild kratts: ocean adventures

♡》little mermaid: the animated series

♡》spongebob squarepants

♡》sealab 2020

♡》dolphin tale: the series

♡》tinga tinga tales

♡》milo and otis

♡》david attenborough’s ocean documentaries

♡》the wild thornberrys

♡》pingu

♡》h2o: just add water

♡》splash and bubbles

♡》franklin and friends

♡》turtle’s tale: sammy’s sdventures

♡》wildlife sos

♡》the magic school bus (especially the underwater episodes)

♡》sea princesses

♡》planet earth (ocean episodes)

♡》in the night garden

♡》care bears: adventures in care-a-lot

♡》sea rescue

♡》bluey (ocean-themed episodes)

♡》my big big friend

♡》tales of the riverbank

♡》river monsters (gentle episodes)

♡happy feet: the series

♡》baby shark’s big show!

♡》sarah and duck

♡》mermaid adventures

Favourite Movies:

♡》finding nemo and dori

♡》the little mermaid

♡》dolphin tale

♡》happy feet

♡》moana

♡》luca

♡》song of the sea

♡》free willy

♡》ponyo

♡》the secret of roan inish

♡》the reefs

♡》shark tale

♡》blue planet (movie version)

♡》the big blue

♡》the whale rider

♡》a turtle’s tale: sammy’s adventures

♡》the water horse

♡》nim’s island

♡》atlantis: the lost empire

♡》the spongebob squarepants movie

♡》over the hedge

♡》barbie dolphin magic

♡》whale rider (animated)

♡》ice age: the meltdown

♡》little nemo: adventures in slumberland

♡》brother bear

♡》kubo and the two strings

♡》big fish

♡》the pebble and the penguin

♡》the adventures of milo and otis

♡》shark bait

♡》surf’s up

♡》the little polar bear

♡》the rescuers

♡》ice age: dawn of the dinosaurs

♡》barbie mermaidia

Favourite Anime:

♡》ponyo

♡》nagi no asukara (a lull in the sea)

♡》my neighbor totoro

♡》free! iwatobi swim club

♡》barakamon

♡》amanchu!

♡》kujira no lora wa sajou ni utau (children of the whales)

♡》aria the animation

♡》tsuritama

♡》shirokuma cafe (polar bear cafe)

♡》mushishi

♡》somali and the forest spirit

♡》hoshi wo ou kodomo (children who chase lost voices)

♡》kino no tabi (kino's journey)

♡》natsume yuujinchou (natsume’s book of friends)

♡》flying witch

♡》tamayura

♡》umi monogatari (sea story)

♡》houkago teibou nisshi (diary of our days at the breakwater)

♡》totto-chan no sango sho (totto-chan's coral reef)

♡》usagi drop

♡》non mon biyori

♡》tales from earthsea

♡》hakumei to mikochi

♡》haibane renmei

♡》shounen ashibe: go! go! goma-chan

♡》shingeki no bahamut: manaria friends

♡》ano hi mita hana no namae wo bokutachi wa mada shiranai (anohana)

♡》k-on!

♡》silver spoon

♡》ano natsu de matteru (waiting in the summer)

♡》clannad (and clannad: after story)

♡》mjii-san no lamp

♡》kiki’s delivery service

♡》spirited away

♡》neko no ongaeshi (the cat returns)

♡》moomin (tanoshii moomin ikka)

♡》little witch academia

♡》neko no dayan (dayan the cat)

Favourite Songs:

♡》under the sea - the little mermaid

♡》somewhere over the rainbow by israel kamakawiwo'ole

♡》beyond the sea by bobby darin

♤》kiss the girl – the little mermaid

♡》whale song – relaxing nature sounds

♡》lullaby – johannes brahms

♡》baby mine – dumbo (disney)

♡》la mer – charles trenet

♡》the sound of silence – simon and garfunkel

♡》twinkle, twinkle, little star – traditional lullaby

♡》pure imagination – willy wonka and the chocolate factory

♡》the rainbow connection – the muppets

♡》a whole new world – aladdin

♡》clair de lune – claude debussy

♡》you’ve got a friend in me – toy story

♡》the bare necessities – the jungle book

♡》can you feel the love tonight – the lion king

♡》over the waves – juventino rosas

♡》colours of the wind – pocahontas

♡》let It go – frozen

♡》a dream is a wish your heart makes – cinderella

♡》hush little baby – traditional lullaby

♡》over the horizon – relaxing instrumental

♡》sailing – christopher cross

♡》whale song – alex and the kaleidoscope band

♡》hakuna matata – the lion king

♡》lava – pixar short film song

♡》sleep, baby sleep – traditional lullaby

♡orinoco flow (sail away) – enya

♡》goodnight, my angel (lullaby) – billy joel

♡》part of your world – the little mermaid

♡》lullaby of the sea – relaxing nature sounds

♡》when you wish upon a star – pinocchio

♡》circle of life – the lion king

♡》beyond the light – ambient instrumental

♡》dream a little dream of me – the mamas and the papas

♡》river flows in tou – yiruma

♡》lullaby for a stormy night – vienna teng

♡》the moon song – karen o

♡》i see the light – tangled

♡》baby beluga – raffi

♡》weightless – marconi union

♡》what a wonderful world – louis armstrong

♡》the sleeping beauty waltz – tchaikovsky

♡》lighthouse – sleeping at last

♡》ocean eyes – billie eilish

♡》calm the storm – vienna teng

♡》hoppípolla – sigur rós

♡》ocean waves – relaxing nature sounds

♡》once upon a dream – sleeping beauty

♡》landslide – fleetwood mac

♡》sleepwalking – bring me the horizon (acoustic version)

♡》sailing by – ronald binge

♡》the skye boat song – traditional

♡》peaceful easy feeling – eagles

♡》breathe me – sia

♡》goodnight my angel – celtic woman

♡》twilight – norah jones

♡》the wind – cat stevens

♡》a sky full of stars – coldplay (acoustic version)

[healthsaga]

Enhance Your Culinary Experience with Tata Simply Better Cold-Pressed Oils

Cold-pressed oils are a game-changer in the kitchen. Unlike refined oils, cold-pressed oils are extracted naturally without the use of heat, preserving more of their nutrients and rich flavors. At Tata Simply Better, we prioritize quality, offering oils that not only boost your health but also enhance the taste of your dishes. Here are five innovative ways to incorporate cold-pressed oils into your daily cooking.

1. Elevate Your Salads:

For those who prioritize healthy eating, salads are a staple. Cold-pressed oils like olive and sesame oil can take your salads to the next level. With their deep, nutty flavor, these oils pair beautifully with fresh vegetables. Create a quick and nutritious dressing by combining cold-pressed olive oil with lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper. This simple yet flavorful dressing not only enhances the taste of your greens but also provides essential nutrients and antioxidants.

2. Marinate Your Proteins:

Cold-pressed oils are perfect for marinating proteins such as chicken, fish, and tofu. Their natural extraction process retains the full flavor profile, making marinades more robust and aromatic. For instance, a marinade made with cold-pressed coconut oil, garlic, ginger, and soy sauce imparts a rich, tropical flavor to chicken. The oil also helps tenderize the meat, ensuring a juicy, flavorful dish. For the best results, marinate your protein for at least an hour before cooking.

3. Stir-Frying Vegetables:

Stir-frying is a quick and healthy cooking technique that keeps vegetables crisp and full of nutrients. Using cold-pressed oils for stir-frying adds depth of flavor while maximizing health benefits. Cold-pressed groundnut oil, with its high smoke point, is ideal for high-heat cooking. Toss your favorite veggies in this oil with garlic, soy sauce, and a hint of chili for a delicious and nutritious stir-fry. The natural oils enhance the flavors without overpowering the dish.

4. Baking with Cold-Pressed Oils:

Baking with cold-pressed oils can bring a unique flavor to your favorite recipes. Oils like cold-pressed coconut or almond oil are healthier alternatives to butter and margarine. These oils not only give baked goods a moist texture but also add a subtle, pleasant flavor. Try using cold-pressed coconut oil in your next batch of cookies or pastries. Replace the butter in your recipe with an equal amount of oil for added health benefits and a delightful taste. Cold-pressed oils ensure that your baked goods are both delicious and nutritious.

5. Sautéing and Roasting:

Sautéing and roasting vegetables in cold-pressed oils can enhance their natural flavors, making them even more enjoyable. Cold-pressed sesame oil, for example, has a nutty aroma that pairs perfectly with roasted root vegetables. Simply toss your vegetables in the oil, season with your favorite herbs and spices, and roast until tender. The oil caramelizes the vegetables, giving them a crispy exterior and a flavorful interior. Additionally, sautéing with cold-pressed oils like sunflower or flaxseed oil can impart a unique taste to your dishes. These oils are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making them a heart-healthy choice for everyday cooking.

Integrating Cold-Pressed Oils into Indian Cooking

At Tata Simply Better, we are committed to providing high-quality cold-pressed oils that enhance your cooking and support your health. Our oils are carefully extracted to preserve their natural goodness, delivering the best in flavor and nutrition. Incorporating cold-pressed oils into your everyday cooking can offer a range of health benefits while making your meals more flavorful and exciting.

Cold-pressed oils are a versatile and healthy addition to your kitchen. Whether you’re dressing a salad, marinating meats, stir-frying vegetables, baking, or sautéing and roasting, these oils add flavor and health benefits to your dishes. Tata Simply Better is proud to offer the finest cold-pressed oils, helping you create delicious and nutritious meals every day. Start experimenting with cold-pressed oils in your kitchen and discover the difference they can make in your cooking. With Tata Simply Better, embrace the natural benefits of cold-pressed oils and elevate your culinary creativity. Your taste buds and overall health will thank you!

[fcukfodmap]

Day 40: Low-FODMAP Gluten-Free Ginger-Glazed Salmon with Blue Cheese Potato Wedges

I made a lot of weird choices while I was cooking this, but it came together in the end, especially the potatoes. Everyone declared the salmon good, but not better than the salmon cakes I made again last week. (Those were stupid good.) Blue cheese on the potatoes with ginger on the fish was also a questionable choice, but I liked the weird mix. Anyway, without further ado:

Low-FODMAP Gluten-Free Ginger-Glazed Salmon with Blue Cheese Potato Wedges

1/4 c table salt

1/4 c white sugar

4 skin-on salmon fillets (basically a 1 1/2 lb fillet cut into quarters)

2 lbs red potatoes, cut into wedges

1/2 c blue cheese crumbles

3 tbsp scallion greens

1/4 c cider vinegar

1/4 c water

2 tbsp sugar

1 tbsp maple syrup

4 tsp gluten-free soy sauce

1 1/2 tsp corn starch

1 inch piece ginger, peeled and crushed

minced chives, oil, salt & pepper

Preheat oven to 450F and position one rack in the middle and one the upper middle. Dissolve the 1/4 c salt and sugar in 2 quarts cold water. Submerge the salmon steaks in the brine for 15 minutes, then remove and set on paper towels to drain.

Meanwhile, put the potato wedges in a microwave-safe bowl, toss with vegetable oil, salt & pepper, cover and microwave for 10 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they're partially translucent. Pour potatoes into a foil-lined rimmed baking pan and slide into the oven on the higher rack. Bake for 15-20 minutes, until browning and soft. Sprinkle evenly with scallion greens and blue cheese, then return to oven for 5 minutes.

Combine cider vinegar, water, sugar, maple syrup, soy sauce, and corn starch in a small saucepan and stir to combine. Add ginger, bring to a simmer, and cook until thickened, stirring constantly. This will come together quickly. Remove from heat and let ginger steep for 5 minutes. Divide sauce into two bowls.

Pat fish dry. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until just smoking. Add salmon fillets, skin side up, and cook until well-browned, about 3 minutes. Turn off heat and turn fish over. Brush the fillets with half the ginger sauce and either put the whole skillet in the oven on the lower rack, or transfer to a foil-lined rimmed baking pan, and then put in the oven. Bake for 5-8 minutes, until the fish registers 125F, then remove from oven. Brush the remaining glaze onto the fish with a clean brush.

I liked the ginger sauce on the fish a lot, but it made me wonder what other uses that sauce could be put to. The obvious would be tofu, but I don't think soybeans are low-FODMAP? Maybe a stir-fry or fried rice? The potatoes were a hit, but then they almost always are. And while everything turned out, this was a lot more finicky than I prefer: could the fish be cooked entirely in the oven? Or the potatoes? I might have to mess about with this one some more.

Disclaimer: I am no dietician. I'm doing my best to minimize FODMAPs in my diet, but it's possible for me to be misinformed or mistaken about various ingredients.

[downtoearthmarkets]

Since the discovery of Blue Zones–areas of the world where people tend to enjoy longer lives and lower rates of chronic disease–there’s been lots of coverage of the diets and lifestyles followed in these regions. While the Mediterranean diet remains the gold standard amongst nutritionists, there are health benefits associated with many ancient foodways. One common thread running through all these diets is an emphasis on plants, legumes, whole grains, wild-caught fish, pastured eggs and other locally sourced foods you can find every Sunday in the farmers market. Here are some of the traditional diets that have garnered attention and gained popularity recently and how to incorporate them into your weekly Down to Earth Markets food shop. The Atlantic Diet A close cousin to the Mediterranean diet, the Atlantic diet is based on the eating habits of people in northwestern Spain and northern Portugal. Because seafood is plentiful in this coastal region, a variety of simple, unprocessed fish and shellfish feature heavily in the diet. The population’s Celtic origins have also brought potatoes, bread and milk to the diet’s forefront. Vegetables, fruit, legumes, honey, nuts, eggs and olive oil are also regularly consumed, while red meat and dairy are enjoyed in smaller amounts. Both the Atlantic and Mediterranean diet emphasize seasonal, local, fresh, and minimally processed foods, which make them appealing from a health standpoint and sustainability perspective. While there are similarities between the two, the cooking techniques of the Atlantic diet are distinct from the Mediterranean diet in that they utilize more steaming, boiling, baking, grilling and stewing than frying, which better preserves the nutritional composition of foods. To leverage the benefits of this diet, try this Galician-style fish recipe using ingredients sourced from the farmers market:

Hake or other flaky, white fish from American Pride Seafood, cut into thick slices

3 large Great Joy Family Farm potatoes, peeled and cut into uneven pieces

1 white Sun Sprout Farm onion, sliced

6 cloves Jersey Farm Produce garlic, sliced

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon sweet paprika

2 bay leaves

Coarse salt

The Japanese Diet Japanese people enjoy some of the world’s highest life expectancies, especially in the Okinawa Prefecture, which has been identified as one of the five blue zones. One of the main principles applied to food in the Japanese culture is called “hara hachi bu” which means to stop eating when you are 80% full. This is typically achieved by consuming a few small meals per day.

The Japanese diet avoids added sugar, refined fats and processed foods. It is rich in cooked and raw fish, soy products, steamed rice, fermented foods, cooked and pickled vegetables, and smoked foods. A traditional Japanese meal also incorporates locally sourced ingredients. Try a taste of the Japanese diet with this stir fry featuring Great Joy Family Farm's New York state grown rice, handmade tofu and a medley of their fresh veggies.

The Nordic Diet The Nordic diet is one that I’m quite familiar with having enjoyed two trips to Finland in the past year. This diet is consumed across Scandinavia and is associated with a number of health benefits including improved heart health and lower weight. Like the Atlantic diet, traditional Nordic cuisine features twice as much fiber and seafood as the standard Western diet and places emphasis on consumption of local and seasonal foods.

Nordic berries such as lingonberries, cloudberries and bilberries proliferate in the deep forests and rugged terrain of these northern countries and are preserved for consumption throughout the year. Mushrooms thrive on the damp floor of forests and hundreds of varieties are found on Nordic menus, although foragers must compete with reindeer who love to indulge in sprouting fungi during the summer and fall. Root vegetables such as beets, turnips and carrots are year-round staples and are often served pickled alongside herring and wild game. Whole grains such as rye, barley and oats are also a big part of Nordic cuisine and appear in a variety of preparations.

Of course, every street corner in Nordic cities has a farmers market, even during the depths of the Arctic winter! We were able to visit the same farmers market on Helsinki’s harbor front in both late August and frozen February, although the wild berry and mushroom vendors had packed up shop and the winter market featured mostly fish, craft and hot food vendors.

You can easily replicate this traditional Finnish reindeer stew called Poronkäristys with ingredients from the farmers market all year round:

2-3 lbs boneless Great Joy Family Farm beef steak or Roaming Acres bison steak (round, sirloin, or chuck)

2 tbsp Maplebrook Farm butter

1 Sun Sprout Farm yellow onion, sliced

2 clovesJersey Farm Produce garlic

Sliced Garden of Eve Organic Farm chives for garnish

Peck's of Maine Wicked Good Wild Blueberry fruit spread

Creamy mashed Great Joy Family Farm potatoes

Sliced Dr. Pickle dill pickles

1 tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

½ tsp ground allspice

As the season progresses and more spring produce floods into the farmers market, it will be easy to embrace these and other plant-forward, health-promoting diets from across the globe. We hope you enjoy experimenting with some different cuisine ideas and incorporating international themes and flavors into your market food shopping this weekend.

[anjalishopping]

5 Easy Sesame Oil Hacks for Authentic Asian Flavors: Help You Cook at Home Better

Sesame oil, the number one choice in many Asian cooking recipes, is not only limited to the finishing option. Despite the fact it is only one item on the list, the flavour and fragrance of hazelnuts can be an absolute game changer and transform simple home cooking to something that might appear on restaurant menus. where do you begin? Nallennai and gingelly oil, both terms for untoasted sesame oil, are particularly common in South Indian cuisine and boast a number of health benefits.

Here are 5 easy sesame oil hacks to unlock authentic Asian flavors:

1. Choose Your Weapon: Hand-made vs. factory-made, paying attention to details both small and large. Untoasted Sesame Oil

There are two main types of sesame oil: burnt and unburnt while waiting.

Toasted Sesame Oil: And this is when the real taste sensation comes: the unforgettable dark oil with a unique, walnut-like flavor that I cannot get tired of. It is just the right climax for making finishes for the noodles, stir-fries, spring rolls or dumplings. Hence, low smoke point is why it is not to be applied in high heat cooking.

Untoasted Sesame Oil: This liquid oil is considered to be a gentle and smooth flavoring which is different than full flavored extra virgin olive oil. It is suitable for family grilling, as well as to be used in salad dressings and drizzled over prepared dishes for an appetizing and nutty flavor. Its smoke point is high and hence allows lighter frying which is required in sauteing.

2. Unleash the Power of Sesame Oil in Marinades:

Sesame oil will add flavors of unparalleled intensity to the marinades for meats, tofu, as well as vegetables. Apply two teaspoons each of toasted and untoasted sesame oils (for personal taste) along with soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a small measure of honey to form an oriental marinade with which you will soak the dishes to result into soft and delicately flavorful dishes.

Challenge: Marination is the process through which liquids enhance our food with their flavors, a feat that requires time. Rather than last minute marinating especially the commonly used liquid marinades should be for at least 30 minutes or overnight.

3. Sesame Oil Magic for Noodles and Dumplings:

An adornment as simple as drizzling a few drops of toasted sesame oil suddenly creates an unexplainable elevation in the taste for noodle dishes and dumplings. Adding a layer of nutty richness, and creating a very balanced and aromatic flavor palette; this augments the quality of the food.

Impact on Flavor: A little is a much. Scale a couple of drops of toasted sesame oil and then add to your taste. Over killing is bad because it will overpower other flavors and make it unreasonable.

4. Don’t Forget the Dipping Sauce:

Sesame oil, which is commonly used all over the Asian region, becomes a main ingredient in many of these dipping sauce formulations. Mix it with soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili oil and a pinch of sugar for a dip that would be nice to serve on dumplings, spring rolls, and grilled meat.

Experimentation is Key: Go with your taste and alter the ratios of sesame oil, soy sauce, and vinegar to keep creating the unique blend of dipping sauce just the way you like it.

5. The Secret Weapon for Restaurant-Style Stir-Fries:

Sesame oil is a basic ingredient that professional chefs universally use to heighten the levels existing in any dish. Next, put the vegetables and your protein on medium-high heat and proceed to stir-fry and then add a little sesame seed oil to it just before serving. This vanification of sleeping will in the end uplift the pleasant smell of the stir-fry and will give it that slightwise nutty touch making it extraordinary.

Remember: Additionally, sesame oil has the property of easily burning. Introduce it literally in the last minutes before cooking as it can taste you bitterly otherwise.

Nallennai vs. Gingelly Oil:

Both nallennai and ingelly are just different for sesame oil, fortunately untoasted usually used in South Indian cuisine.

Conclusion:

Sesame oil is a super ingredient that can really help you become a master in Asian cuisine with these tricks of the trade at your home. These tips are handy, and they are going to supplement the flavor, aroma and consistency of your meals. Hence, you can introduce diversified foods to your menu. OK, people, go for your bottle of sesame oil and start your journey into one of the most diverse and delicious cuisines in the world!

[technopooja]

Ghee Glorious Ghee: A Journey Through Vegetarian Delights

Ghee, the nutty-flavored clarified butter, isn't just for Indian cuisine anymore. This kitchen hero boasts a high smoke point, making it perfect for everything from searing veggies to adding richness to sauces. But ghee's magic extends far beyond its versatility in cooking. In Ayurveda, ghee is considered a sattvic food, promoting lightness and clarity. So, let's embark on a delicious adventure with ghee, exploring a range of vegetarian recipes that showcase its incredible potential.

Ghee-Kissed Indian Classics

Saag Paneer with Ghee-Roasted Cashews: This comforting dish gets a delightful upgrade with ghee. Roast your paneer cubes in hot ghee until golden, then add them to a creamy spinach gravy. Top it off with a sprinkle of ghee-roasted cashews for a textural and flavor explosion.

Ghee Roast Vegetables: Simple yet bursting with flavor, ghee-roasted vegetables are a fantastic side dish or light lunch. Toss your favorite veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, and bell peppers with fragrant spices and a generous amount of ghee. Roast until tender and caramelized, and enjoy the smoky goodness.

Masala Dosa with Ghee-Spiced Potato Filling: Elevate your dosa game with a ghee twist. Temper your potato filling with mustard seeds and curry leaves sauteed in ghee. The aroma will fill your kitchen and elevate the flavor profile of this South Indian staple.

Global Adventures with Ghee

Ghee-Infused Vegetarian Pad Thai: Give your Pad Thai a rich, nutty depth with ghee. Use it to stir-fry your vegetables and tofu, creating a base with a unique flavor compared to traditional peanut-based versions.

Ghee-Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Sage: This creamy soup is pure comfort food. Roast butternut squash cubes in ghee until caramelized for an extra layer of sweetness. Finish the soup with a touch of ghee and fresh sage for a touch of earthy elegance.

Gnocchi with Ghee Brown Butter and Crispy Brussels Sprouts: This vegetarian spin on a classic Italian dish is pure indulgence. Brown butter (made with ghee) adds a nutty richness to the sauce, while crispy Brussels sprouts add a delightful textural contrast.

FAQs

Can I substitute ghee with other fats? You can substitute other high smoke point oils like avocado oil for some recipes. However, ghee's unique flavor profile won't be replicated.

Is ghee healthy? Ghee is a good source of healthy fats and vitamins. However, it's still high in calories, so enjoy it in moderation.

Where can I find ghee? Most grocery stores carry ghee these days. You can also find high-quality ghee at Indian grocery stores or online retailers.

Conclusion

Ghee is a culinary chameleon, adding depth and richness to a vast array of vegetarian dishes. From comforting Indian classics to global adventures, ghee elevates flavors and makes every bite a delight. So, embrace the golden goodness of ghee and embark on a delicious culinary journey! Remember, a little goes a long way, and the health benefits, along with the taste, make ghee a worthy addition to your vegetarian kitchen.

[corrianderleaf]

Easy Egg Fried Rice Recipe

Introduction:

You can eat egg-friedice as a main course or a side dish, making it a popular and flexible option. This recipe is perfect for individuals who need a quick and filling meal but don’t have a lot of time to prepare it.

Step 1: Get the Necessary Stuff

Rice is the foundation of this recipe; using cooked rice prevents it from sticking together throughout the stir-frying procedure.

Scrambled eggs are a great way to add protein and richness to a dish, and they also do a wonderful job of coating the rice.

Carrots, peas, and bell peppers are standard fare, but you can mix and match to your heart’s content. The vegetables give the dish vibrancy, texture, and nutritional value.

To make the fried rice more filling and substantial, you can add protein such as cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu.

Add some saltiness and flavorful umami to your food with some soy sauce.

Even a touch of sesame oil elevates the flavour of the fried rice and makes it smell wonderful.

Oil for cooking: vegetable or canola oil, or any other neutral oil with a high smoke point, is ideal for stir-frying.

To season the food with salt and pepper to your liking.

Step 2: Get the Ingredients Ready

Cut the veggies into uniform cubes. This makes it simple to mix into the rice and guarantees uniform cooking.

Visit our site to read more: https://corrianderleaf.com/easy-egg-fried-rice-recipe/

[vegi1]

30 Yummy & Mouthwatering Vegan Dinner Ideas

In this article, I will share 30 yummy and mouthwatering vegan dinner ideas that will satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just starting, these easy-to-make vegan dinner ideas are perfect for incorporating plant-based foods into your daily meals.

From creamy Thai soup to sticky sesame tofu stir-fry and grilled Bok choy with spicy and salty oyster mushrooms, these vegan dinner ideas will indeed please even the pickiest. So, get ready to explore some delicious and nutritious vegan dinner ideas that are good for you and the planet.

If you are looking for vegan food ideas, take a look at this post: 7 Vegan Appetizers Ideas that are Perfect For Any Party

I have chosen veganism as my lifestyle and diet for many years. If you have just decided to choose a vegetarian diet, the first few days and weeks will be challenging for you to cook, but good news! Vegan cooking is easier than you think, especially with the creative ideas for vegan dinners that I tell you!

Are you ready for a mouthwatering vegan dinner idea? Look no further than our tasty lentil Salisbury steak recipe!

It takes only 30 minutes, making it perfect for a vegan dinner meal.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

1 cup cooked lentils

1/2 cup mushrooms, finely chopped

1/2 onion, finely chopped

1/4 cup bread crumbs

2 tbsp flaxseed meal

1 tbsp vegan Worcestershire sauce

1 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, mushrooms, onion, bread crumbs, flaxseed meal, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.

Using your hands, form the mixture into four to six oval-shaped patties.

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the lentil patties to the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until browned and crispy.

Remove from heat and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

That’s it! Our vegan lentil Salisbury steak is perfect for a quick and easy dinner meal. The lentils and mushrooms provide a flavorful and hearty base, while the Worcestershire sauce and seasonings add a savory depth of flavor.

This bowl is a delicious vegan dinner packed with healthy plant-based ingredients. The quinoa is cooked in vegetable broth for extra flavor and nutrition and then combined with steamed vegetables and a creamy peanut sauce for a delicious and nutritious meal.

I’m excited to share with you a recipe for a delicious quinoa gado-gado bowl. It’s a healthy and vegan meal that’s perfect for dinner!

Here are the ingredients you’ll need:

1 cup quinoa

2 cups vegetable broth

1 cup chopped broccoli

1 cup chopped carrots

1 cup chopped red bell pepper

1 cup chopped cucumber

1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro

1/4 cup chopped peanuts

For the peanut sauce:

1/2 cup creamy peanut butter

1/4 cup soy sauce

2 tablespoons agave nectar

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 clove garlic, minced

1/4 cup water

Instructions:

Rinse the quinoa in a fine mesh strainer and add it to a medium saucepan with the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

While the quinoa cooks, prepare the vegetables by steaming them until they are tender-crisp.

To make the peanut sauce, combine all of the sauce ingredients in a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add more water until it reaches your desired consistency.

To assemble the bowl, divide the quinoa, steamed vegetables, and chopped cilantro between four bowls. Drizzle the peanut sauce over the top of each bowl and sprinkle with chopped peanuts.

This recipe takes around 30 minutes to prepare and serves four people.

It’s packed with nutrients like protein, fiber, vitamin C, and iron from the quinoa and vegetables. Plus, the peanut sauce adds healthy fats and a delicious flavor to the dish.

This taco is a nutritious, vegan-friendly meal that is easy to make. All you need to do is roast some vegetables, like avocado, peppers, and onions, toss them with black beans and seasonings, and then serve them on warm tortillas.

This Easy & Delicious Roasted Vegetable & Black Bean Tacos Recipe is quick to prepare, taking only around 30-40 minutes from start to finish.

It’s an excellent option for a healthy and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by vegans and non-vegans alike. Enjoy!

[mikasimaginairyworld]

recipes: lunch

vegan/ vegetarian: ☘️

fish: 🐟

meat: 🍗

cold:❄️

warm: 🔥

tried out by me:

Chicken Quinoa Bowl (3/5) 🍗🔥; 30min

Roasted Red Pepper Pesto (5/5) ☘️🔥; 50min

Vegetable Curry (4/5) ☘️🔥; 40min

Pumpkin Soup (4/5) ☘️🔥; 30min

Zoodles and Smoked Salmon (4/5) 🐟🔥; 10min

Black Bean and Corn Salad (3/5) ☘️❄️; 10min

Katsu Curry (4/5) ☘️🔥; 30min

Chicken with Mango Salsa (5/5) 🍗🔥; 20min

Chicken Quinoa Salad (3/5) 🍗❄️; 10min

Salmon Alfredo (3/5) 🐟🔥; 30min

Sesame Noodles with Chicken (3/5) 🍗❄️; 10min

Beef Burrito Bowl (5/5) 🍗🔥; 30min

Satay Chicken Salad (10/5) 🍗🔥; 30min

Spinach Chicken Farfalle (4/5) 🍗🔥; 20min

Chicken Quinoa Casserole (4/5) 🍗🔥; 40min

Salmon Rice Bowl (5/5) 🐟❄️; 10min

Veggie Bolognese (4/5) ☘️🔥; 65min

Coconut Salmon Curry (4/5) 🐟🔥; 25min

Spaghetti Puttanesca (3/5) 🐟🔥; 25min

Chicken Quinoa Salad 2.0 (3/5) 🍗❄️; 25min

Sun-dried Tomato Chicken Pasta (4/5) 🍗🔥; 30min

Sesame Orange Cauliflower (4/5) ☘️🔥; 30min

to be tried out by me:

Pad Thai 🐟🔥; 30min

Stuffed Bell Peppers 🍗🔥; 50min

Broccoli Beef Stir-Fry 🍗🔥; 40min

Vegan Chilli Con Carne ☘️🔥; 35min

Rainbow Lasagna ☘️🔥; 90min

Honey Soy Chicken 🍗🔥; 40min

Honey Haloumni Salad ☘️🔥; 40min

Shredded Tofu Fried Rice ☘️🔥; 20min

Miso Mushroom Fried Rice ☘️🔥; 20min

Tofu Skin Salad ☘️❄️; 20min

Falafel Bowl ☘️❄️; 15min

Garlic Tofu ☘️🔥; 40min

Chicken Haloumni Salad 🍗🔥; 40min

Chicken Fried Rice 🍗🔥; 20min

Curry Chicken Quinoa Soup 🍗🔥; 20min

Chicken Lo Mein 🍗🔥; 20min

Stuffed Sweet Potatoes ☘️🔥; 70min

Dijon Chicken Pasta Salad 🍗☘️; 30min

Lemon Garlic Chicken Zoodles 🍗🔥; 30min

Honey Turkey Bowl 🍗🔥; 30min

Teriyaki Salmon Poke bowl 🐟❄️; 25min

[unkemptgardens]

CHAPTER FOUR

The following morning Tesla was awoken by the timer kicking the lights on in her face.  She squinted against the purple.  The plants all had fully-formed buds on them.  She shot out of bed to investigate. 

Completely frosted.  A mix of white and amber trichomes, fully covered, like a cupcake.  The buds were then layered with a thick coat of orange hairs.  The buds themselves were dense and gigantic, taking up the majority of each stalk's length.  Tesla rushed to find Daisy.

A few hours later the bud was harvested and spread out in a mesh hanger to cure.  Harvesting had been promising.  They had went through a few pairs of scissors because the trichomes kept gumming up the blades.  Each plant was different.  Daisy had loved picking out the different terpenes with her nose.  She inhaled the bud she was holding.  “Beta-caryophyllene, limonene...a little humulene?”

“I think that's the Girl Scout Cookies.  It smells like my last bag.  Only a million times better.”  Tesla had never seen weed like this in her life.  She couldn't believe it.  Daisy was the real deal.  She even did magic to speed up the curing process – they were hoping the faint grass smell would be gone by tomorrow.  

It was Sunday so the shop was closed.  Daisy didn't feel like working on the website on her day off so they hung out and relaxed instead.  Daisy did another tarot reading for Tesla which turned out to be hopeful and encouraging.  Tesla then tried her hand at doing one for Daisy, but the messages were conflicting.  Tesla helped Daisy repot some of her plants and even ate some of her peanut-butter tofu stir-fry (worth eating).  They checked on the weed.

Tesla smelled a perfect nugget.  “It smells ready.  Shall we try it out?”

“Me?”

“We'll compare notes.”

Daisy didn't say no and didn't kick Tesla out when she started breaking a bud up.  She sat down at the table where Tesla finished loading a bowl into a rainbow pipe that had a large chip on the side.  

“Okay, I'm gonna need you to corner this.  You don't want to get too high.  Just burn a small bit and then stop.  Don't get brave,” instructed Tesla.

Daisy took the pipe.  She did as she was told, nailed it, and then handed the pipe back.  She waited.  “I don't think I feel anything.” 

“Nothing?”

“Wait, no.”

“........”

“Wait, no,” Daisy repeated and then she burst out laughing.

Tesla eagerly took a puff.  Her body instantly melted and suddenly she had a big, goofy grin.  

“How do you feel now?”  she asked Daisy.

“Like I wanna go on a walk.”

“Where?”

“The backyard?”

“You don't have a backyard.”

“Damn.”

They settled on the park.  Daisy was having the time of her life looking at all the different trees and was completely incapable of playing it cool in public.  Tesla had little success hushing her.

“LOOK AT THE WEEPING WILLOW, TESLA!”  She did this with each new tree.  It was a park full of trees.

Somewhere between an oak and an elm Tesla was hit with a full-blown munchies attack.  She needed food, and she needed it now.  “Daisy.  Daisy we have to leave.”

“Is that person over there with the binoculars sketching you out too?”

“They're bird watching.”

“Oh.”

“No, I've got the munchies.  Let's go get food.”  

They couldn't find Tesla's jeep.  It took them a quarter hour to realize they were on the wrong side of the park.  Then they got lost on the drive back to the shop.  Finally they made it back.  Tesla realized that she had completely forgotten to stop and get munchies and had to settle for Daisy's weird pantry.  They gorged themselves on spicy dried fruit, granola yogurt bites, dark chocolate, baby carrots and humus, and kelp chips.

“This might be the weed talking, but these kelp chips are really hitting the spot,” said Tesla, slouched on the couch, covered in crumbs.

Daisy looked out the window.  “It's already dark!  How long has it been?”

Tesla checked her phone and sat up.  “Wow.  Hours.  Usually you don't feel it for this long unless you, like, eat edibles or something.”

“Well I think I'm getting sleepy.  I'm going to go to bed.”

“Me too.”

The next morning they were both still high.  “Okay, this is weird,” said Tesla, accidentally buttering her phone instead of her toast.  “We shouldn't still be high.”

“....was it all of the magic?”

“Probably, Daisy.  I have a confession to make.  I was doing magic every night too!  You kept going on and on about intention magic, I figured it wouldn't hurt to talk to some plants.  They're honestly a good audience.”

“Tesla!  So we're too high?”

“I mean, I am, and I can only imagine how you feel, never having smoked before.”

“I just thought this was what it was like!”  All of Daisy's clothes were on inside-out.

“Just give it a little bit.”

It did eventually wear off, much to Daisy's relief.  She kept losing things.  On one occasion, after a half-hour of searching for her keys, Witchcat brought them to her, rabbit's foot in mouth, and released them at her feet with an exasperated sigh.  On another occasion, while cooking, she had looked all over the kitchen for her spoon only to realize she had been holding it the entire time.

“A day and a half!” said Tesla excitedly.  “This weed is magic.”

“I don't know, you don't think it's too strong?  I forgot the word 'door.'”

Tesla waved it off.  “It's fine.  I'll start selling tomorrow.”

And away she went!  The next morning Tesla's very first stop was the library.  She marched right up to the librarian's desk.  “Meet me in the occult section.”  Five minutes later they were face to face with Tesla's backpack between them.  “It's magic.”

Charles looked up from where he was inspecting a fat purple nugget.  “Yes, but what do you mean?”

“We grew it with magic!  Daisy did her green witch thing and I talked to them a lot!”

“Magnificent.  I'll take a quarter.”

Then Tesla went to the local college campus where she had pretty good luck.  Finally, she found herself inside of The Third Eye.  She did feel a little guilty, but then Jack spotted her and came over with a wave.  

“Tesla!  Right?”

“Haha.  Yeah.  Haha.”

“You didn't bring your friend, did you?”

“Don't worry, I think she hates you just as much as you hate her.”

“I see.”

“Yeah, hey, I actually came in today because I just grew some just absolute dank.  I'll smoke a bowl with you and you can decide if you want some.”

They went to a back room, where there was already a bong out on the coffee table.  It was surrounded by loveseats in a circular fashion.  She picked the one in the middle, small and cushioney.

Tesla's backpack reeked.  She pulled out the bags.  ��Look at this madness.”

Jack was thoroughly impressed.  “Okay, I want some.”

“Just wait!  Bong?”

“You bet.”

Tesla loaded her up and offered him the green hit, which he took in a practiced manner.  The effect was immediate.  It was an indica, and he grew very still and soft, eyes unfocused.  “That tasted exactly like berries,” he said finally.

Tesla threw her arms up in a touchdown.  “It’s the best!”  She took the bong for herself.  She hesitated a moment, remembering how completely baked she was last time.  Had she been too high?  Impossible.  She took a big rip.  The lights got brighter, the colors more vivid.  Suddenly she heard every single lyric coming from the small laptop in the corner, which she hadn’t noticed before.  Then she forgot where she was.

“I think this is the highest I’ve ever been,” she heard.  She looked over at Jack staring at his outstretched hands and remembered.  Then she felt ridiculous and giggled at herself for a bit.  “Do you want some?”  she asked.  She sold him an eighth.  It was hard for him to count out the money but they managed.  They both sunk further and further into the couch, letting the music play.  It was wonderful.

“What is this?”

“I don’t remember.”

They talked a little.  “What’s the deal with your friend?”

“Daisy.  Get this: she owns an occult shop.  On the other side of town.  Can you believe it?”

“Yeah I think I’ve heard of it.  Six Roads?”

“Five Roads.”

“How’d she get that name?”

“Said it came to her in a dream.”

“No shit.”

“Yeah, she’s just as weird as you, don’t hate her.  I know she was a lot when she was in here, but she really isn’t that bad.  She just kind of lost it when she found out about your shop.”

“She didn’t know about it?”

“I don’t think she gets out much.”

They stared dreamily off into space for a bit.  “You think I’m weird?” asked Jack after a minute.

“A little.”

“Why?”

Tesla laughed.  “I’m not into all this.”  She gestured around her at the room in general, hung with tapestries and filled with candles and incense smoke.  “I think it’s cute though.”

“You bought enchanted lube!”

“I mean, I couldn’t not buy the enchanted lube.”

“Do you like it?  I enchanted it myself.”

“How do you enchant lube?”

Jack grinned.  “Trade secret.  Now that I know you’re friends with the competition.”

“It better not be weird.”

“It’s not.  It’s very normal.”

“Enchanting lube?”

“Yes.”

Tesla’s phone vibrated.  It was Daisy, wondering if she wanted dinner.  Tesla smiled at the thoughtfulness.  “Well, I better go.  It was nice talking to you again.”  They said goodbye and Tesla left in a blissful haze.  She couldn’t get her jeep open.  It took awhile for her to realize she was pressing the lock button.  But the ride home was fairly uneventful and soon she was in Daisy’s tiny, delicious-smelling kitchen, dumping her cash from that day onto the table.

“Are you kidding me?” squealed Daisy.  “This is enough for rent!”  

Tesla rolled up her sleeves and started flexing and kissing her muscles.

Daisy squinted.  “You’re super-stoned again!”  she accused.

Tesla laughed.  “No I’m not!”

Daisy crossed her arms.  “If I have twelve apples and I take away five and add seventeen apples, how many apples do I have?”

“What, are you dealing apples?  Another day at the ol’ apple factory?”

“See!  You couldn’t figure it out if you tried!”

“Daisy, sometimes the answer comes from within.”  Daisy rolled her eyes and set a plate of steaming vegetables down in front of Tesla, who glady dug in.  She had eaten more green stuff since living with Daisy than she had in the past six months.

“Well I’m not smoking the stuff anytime soon again.  It was fun and everything, but that is just too much for me,” said Daisy.  

They discussed what they still had left to do for the website, and how the new source of income could benefit the shop.  Tesla was too super-stoned to be helpful.  “Let’s get one of those crazy, inflated floppy men out front!” 

They talked about their day. 

“Don’t be mad, but I sold weed to the guy at The Third Eye.”

“Tesla!  He’s the competition!  Don’t associate with him!”

“I said don’t be mad.  His money’s just as good as anyone else’s.”  Tesla didn’t mention his soulful eyes or pretty smile.  Or that he only bought an eighth.  “Well, how was the shop today?  Any new customers?”

Daisy sighed.  “Not yet.”

The next few days flew by.  The shop, as always, was slow, but gave Daisy plenty of time to work on the website, which they got up and running.  Daisy reorganized and looked at adding new inventory.  She also started considering taking ads out in the local newspaper or perhaps having a commercial run on the radio.  She had the funds now.  Tesla, who had taken to wearing sunglasses inside and smoking cigars, brought in a steady stream of cash everyday from selling.  Tesla noticed her repeat customers were all still super-stoned, but that they just wanted different strains of her “magic weed.”  Each time, they went on and on about how good it was.  She could recognize her customers, many of them college students, throughout town from a mile away.  Many of them were conspicuous in some manner.  For example, one girl looked like she had accidentally slathered toothpaste all over her face instead of moisturizer.  Tesla didn’t have the heart to tell her.  She had come down from her own magic high and had opted to take a break from the World’s Best Bud.  She didn’t see it as a problem, however, until things started hitting close to home.

Tesla recognized that some of her campus customers worked at Arby’s, which, naturally, she frequented.  It started out small.  No Arby’s sauce in the bag.  Barely noticeable, normal even.  Then, no curly fries.  No curly fries!  How could they?  Soon, the entire order was missing.  It was just a paper bag with one measly napkin in it. 

Tesla went inside.  “Who’s in charge here?” she asked at the counter.  The three employees, all super-stoned, all looked at each other blankly, as though they had forgotten.

Tesla held up the paper bag.  “You forgot my entire order!”  The employee at the register, Kyle, who had bought an eighth, looked into the bag and broke into a lopsided grin.

“Whoa,” he said.

Tesla waited.  “Well?”

“What did you order again?”

Ten minutes later, Tesla left with extra fries, dessert, and two extra sandwiches.  She was a little worried though.  Would things be like this forever?  She noticed things amiss on the way home too.  Everyone was driving with a blinker light on.  At a four-way, no one knew who was supposed to go and then everyone tried to go all at once.  It might’ve caused an accident but everyone was driving too slowly.  “Does this whole town smoke weed?” cried Tesla in frustration.

Shortly at Daisy’s, Tesla brought it up.  “We have to do something!”

“Just stop selling it!  It’ll wear off eventually.”

“Will it?  Samantha only bought a gram and today I saw her give her entire order at Arby’s to the sign without the speaker in it.”

Daisy’s expression brightened and she snapped her fingers.  “I know!  We can go visit Charles and see how he feels!”

[najia-cooks]

[ID: A skillet full of yellow crumbled tofu, red and green bell peppers, and potatoes, topped with stringy melted cheese. End ID]

Tofu scramble with potatoes, mushrooms, and bell peppers

This scramble spices and fries tofu, vegetables, and potatoes separately to create a flavorful, heterogenous dish. Kala namak is used to produce a sulphorous, ‘eggy’ flavor, cumin gives earthiness and depth, and smoked paprika and cayenne pepper provide smoke and heat. It’s easily made in large batches, refrigerates and reheats well, and makes for a tasty, decadent breakfast or brunch option along with toast, sausage, or pancakes.

Recipe under the cut!

Patreon | Tip jar

Ingredients:

2 14oz packages firm or extra firm tofu

4 tsp (1 Tbsp + 1 tsp turmeric)

2 tsp kala namak (black salt; or substitute table salt)

1 Tbsp cumin seeds, or ground cumin

About 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, divided

1/4 cup vegan margarine, or neutral oil

2 yellow onions, chopped or sliced

1 tsp table salt, or to taste

8 cloves garlic, chopped

1 Tbsp sweet paprika (or a mix of sweet and smoked paprika), divided

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper, or to taste (optional)

1 cup button or cremini mushrooms, sliced

2 red chili peppers, diced

1 green bell pepper, sliced

1 red bell pepper, sliced

1 1/2 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 tomato, chopped

3 potatoes, preferably Yukon gold (optional)

1 avocado, sliced or cubed

vegan pepperjack cheese, to top (optional)

In this recipe, I call for some of the spices to be mixed in with the tofu, and others to be fried with the vegetables. You can change which spices you use, how you balance the spices, and which spices go where; the basic idea is to create a layered flavor profile by adding different spices at different times.

Instructions:

1. Press the tofu. Slice open the package of tofu on one side and drain out as much water as you can. Press the tofu: wrap each block in a kitchen towel, place a flat plate or cutting board on top of the tofu, and place a weight (about as heavy as a can of soup) on top of the plate. Leave for at least 30 minutes to remove moisture.

2. Parboil the potatoes. Scrub and cube potatoes, placing cut potatoes in a pot filled with a few cups of water as you go. Heat the pot until boiling, then salt the water and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook until potatoes are almost fork-tender. Drain and pat dry.

2. Prepare the tofu. In a large bowl, crumble the tofu with your hands or a fork until it is about the consistency of scrambled eggs. Use a kitchen towel or paper towel to pat and remove excess moisture. Add turmeric, kala namak, ground cumin (if using), and about 1 1/2 tsp black pepper and stir to combine.

3. Fry the tofu. Heat 1 Tbsp margarine or oil in a large skillet on medium. Add tofu and allow to cook without disturbing until lightly browned on the bottom. Stir and flip the tofu to allow another side to cook for another several minutes until golden brown. Remove the tofu from the skillet into a large bowl.

4. Fry the vegetables. In the same skillet, heat another 1 Tbsp margarine on medium-high until sizzling. Add cumin (if using whole seeds) and fry until they begin popping into the air.

5. Add onion and salt and cook until soft and translucent, 5-8 minutes. Add garlic and cook for about a minute until fragrant. Add 2 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper, and a few cracks of black pepper and fry for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.

6. Add mushrooms, spinach, and chili peppers and cook until softening, 3-5 minutes. Add bell peppers and tomato and cook for another few minutes until soft. (If using baby spinach, add it at the very end and allow it to wilt for 30 seconds to a minute.) Remove from the skillet into the bowl with the tofu.

7. Fry the potatoes. Heat the last 2 Tbsp margarine on medium-high in the same skillet until sizzling. Add potatoes, 1 tsp paprika, and a few cracks of black pepper and stir to combine. Allow potatoes to fry without disturbing for a few minutes until golden brown on one side; flip and stir to allow them to brown on another side. Repeat this a few times until potatoes are golden brown and crisp on most sides, and fork-tender through to the center. Set aside.

If potatoes are browning on the outside too quickly, reduce the heat. If they are still threatening to burn and not cooked through, add a splash of water and cover the pan to allow them to steam until tender, then remove the cover and drizzle a bit of oil on them to re-crisp.

8. Assemble the dish. Return all ingredients to the pan and allow them to reheat. Taste and adjust spices. Remove from heat and top with avocado and cheese, if desired.