tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83591370520164464222024-03-01T20:07:02.482-05:00Walking the Vegan LineVegan life in the land barbeques, rodeo, and meat-eating Republicans - Houston, TexasVegan_Noodlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946796454115691643noreply@blogger.comBlogger239125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8359137052016446422.post-17995542098075607942010-06-01T16:05:00.001-05:002010-06-01T17:18:56.254-05:00Welcome Boden!I can't believe it has been almost a year since I have posted on here. I have really missed blogging! The last year has brought a few changes, most notably the arrival of my son, Boden Hardy Mariano! He came into the world on April 2, 2010 at 11:16pm weighing 6 lb. 15 oz. and 19.5 inches long. After a quick stay in the NICU (thanks only to my high fever during labor, he was perfectly fine), he came home and we have been enjoying our time together ever since! Being a mom has been everything I hoped for, and so much more. Here we are just after Boden was born...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6h9IQSZZzwcR3tBVycgG04mlX-4DCyHuEjIYEZZ1iJLjh9LzrPl97NivpY8OGVsZ6BnKowAgGDcXwmAAFNfnxk5G811JImEAkTGDsNJOC8F5SPZ64XVov2BTLYL5x6SzNBoxDHFlqHzo/s1600/IMG_0100.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474516112048174882" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6h9IQSZZzwcR3tBVycgG04mlX-4DCyHuEjIYEZZ1iJLjh9LzrPl97NivpY8OGVsZ6BnKowAgGDcXwmAAFNfnxk5G811JImEAkTGDsNJOC8F5SPZ64XVov2BTLYL5x6SzNBoxDHFlqHzo/s400/IMG_0100.JPG" /></a><br />I am still doing the vegan thing. During my pregnancy I found it very easy to maintain a healthy diet. My midwife said I had the textbook healthy pregnancy (perfect weight gain, fundal height, etc.). I never had morning sickness and I felt pretty good right up until delivery. Here's a photo of me and my belly just a week before Boden's birth...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCMQj29T7MWyOrOb7nK3GCTzCswW248id8jD4KbcIvTqVFaiR7b0QXUAKoMaVmFJB2m3OY8HtCUH7uK1IlH4AKTWSAhdcZTKtOE7-IviDRSdiEzencYn5obLIlEBzDJsUnQ4l4xymCjt0/s1600/IMG_0030.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474514411503554162" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCMQj29T7MWyOrOb7nK3GCTzCswW248id8jD4KbcIvTqVFaiR7b0QXUAKoMaVmFJB2m3OY8HtCUH7uK1IlH4AKTWSAhdcZTKtOE7-IviDRSdiEzencYn5obLIlEBzDJsUnQ4l4xymCjt0/s400/IMG_0030.JPG" /></a><br />I am going to attempt to visit some blogs in the several weeks and catch up a bit. Not sure at this point whether I will start blogging again, but I'll at least update with some cute baby photos every once in awhile :-) Hope you are all doing well!<br /><br />And since I'm a proud mama, here's a few more pictures of my sweet baby boy!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxh14fLD475JmBCuy9_24KnXIWOuJ-rc2Lw4wa7mzFMC7sVlZVxgnI2trV7t4m4vZygM4rjVfZAb6XEO1hxZAVVkYeSsdM3-Hc8ponU0cpn9uE_kjCGRfeT-Kz3z-jn10wtfQLnFDbPHk/s1600/IMG_1200.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474519280268937378" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxh14fLD475JmBCuy9_24KnXIWOuJ-rc2Lw4wa7mzFMC7sVlZVxgnI2trV7t4m4vZygM4rjVfZAb6XEO1hxZAVVkYeSsdM3-Hc8ponU0cpn9uE_kjCGRfeT-Kz3z-jn10wtfQLnFDbPHk/s400/IMG_1200.JPG" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXYUwdXDbqLa1GKfGhUPHS-mh5mkWUAnXiYGW2O1A6WRTeW4yAmTAUKn0BCf_S5-G7v4GOOMiaua0Rd1ds7fkRwwswVxSMrnP-N8kUrWpe3t22NEOjNuMVl4m2apK6eVcs5spglmGjf6E/s1600/IMG_0963.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474519266688949842" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXYUwdXDbqLa1GKfGhUPHS-mh5mkWUAnXiYGW2O1A6WRTeW4yAmTAUKn0BCf_S5-G7v4GOOMiaua0Rd1ds7fkRwwswVxSMrnP-N8kUrWpe3t22NEOjNuMVl4m2apK6eVcs5spglmGjf6E/s400/IMG_0963.JPG" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg5JVuaMLsJ8xEG7SRILfrj6Qq0Lqj5CXoCnounDNpwm7qlwRRG1GjgFTlo16UyS2JhhRtyaqZmmLWnKFVzLdcZpeo77dAzWbzyxbB41VK4mxGeMSBxdVDUtquCeLKwOyctP-tNYoFw8E/s1600/IMG_0856.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474519254357631954" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg5JVuaMLsJ8xEG7SRILfrj6Qq0Lqj5CXoCnounDNpwm7qlwRRG1GjgFTlo16UyS2JhhRtyaqZmmLWnKFVzLdcZpeo77dAzWbzyxbB41VK4mxGeMSBxdVDUtquCeLKwOyctP-tNYoFw8E/s400/IMG_0856.JPG" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGJJ3hEU-z1GCJGbK1lrTbcqKeL5l0YpaD7wNFgqyiBbTFZm_P5lslX-IPQCnePapaTicS7WhRx3WtrCwY8AcghJtAZIpE7Oyi4EM3SXsqdJrjDnQrsSqZRArpZvVwpNAVAv4UaNWck_8/s1600/IMG_0557.JPG"><img style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474519240175999826" border="0" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGJJ3hEU-z1GCJGbK1lrTbcqKeL5l0YpaD7wNFgqyiBbTFZm_P5lslX-IPQCnePapaTicS7WhRx3WtrCwY8AcghJtAZIpE7Oyi4EM3SXsqdJrjDnQrsSqZRArpZvVwpNAVAv4UaNWck_8/s400/IMG_0557.JPG" /></a>Vegan_Noodlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946796454115691643noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8359137052016446422.post-67564988900412597022009-06-25T19:21:00.002-05:002009-06-25T19:59:08.887-05:00Houston Represented! Worldwide Vegan Bake Sale RecapHouston's <a href="http://www.veganbakesale.org/veganbakesale/index.html">Worldwide Vegan Bake Sale </a>this past weekend was a huge success!! Despite temperatures that could melt vegan buttercream in a matter of minutes, we drew in quite the crowd of hungry vegans and non-vegans looking to satisfy their sweet tooth for a good cause. Proceeds from this <a href="http://www.societyofpeace.org/">Society of PEACE </a>sponsored event are going to <a href="http://www.peacefulprairie.org/">Peaceful Prairie Sanctuary </a>in Colorado (a place both near and dear to my heart). I think our electric blue "Vegan Bake Sale" sign really got the point across!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb-2auGT7JYBx6a_1zclGuIbhG_1QKpUXzfl0tyxrIR8svI0SllPhI7F3iF1wxNB1leCuQhdD0v0_Gch_tCmWLXTR1JPqVJS1v1RuY4OGxyM8_pxD1W6L4qar2PUHR7pkjCWngodLNUmA/s1600-h/bake+sale+1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5351084918193137186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb-2auGT7JYBx6a_1zclGuIbhG_1QKpUXzfl0tyxrIR8svI0SllPhI7F3iF1wxNB1leCuQhdD0v0_Gch_tCmWLXTR1JPqVJS1v1RuY4OGxyM8_pxD1W6L4qar2PUHR7pkjCWngodLNUmA/s400/bake+sale+1.jpg" border="0" /></a> Check out our goody table! This was taken before even more cupcakes and brownies arrived. We had some seriously skilled bakers throw down for this bake sale. Embarassingly enough, I think I tried one of almost everything and there's no way I could choose a favorite (though John is still talking about the mexican wedding cookies and the pineapple upside cake).<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMpXf-fAdTQnv_0dgMrpgj5aC6wZqWNZjwl59yr4mr6AVQHl1b0gqIdgyUSgkfYSFqUPwCYzIF4yPhAbInq1_DPgQHm660okae4xb9HWlcxK05Rd8Q7hl-1bMS6nUnEcn7IlKHLudEdsU/s1600-h/bake+sale+4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5351084928453763010" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMpXf-fAdTQnv_0dgMrpgj5aC6wZqWNZjwl59yr4mr6AVQHl1b0gqIdgyUSgkfYSFqUPwCYzIF4yPhAbInq1_DPgQHm660okae4xb9HWlcxK05Rd8Q7hl-1bMS6nUnEcn7IlKHLudEdsU/s400/bake+sale+4.jpg" border="0" /></a> Want a close-up? Of course I'm sure you're all wondering what I baked. Suprisingly enough I chose not to make cupcakes (shocker, I know), and instead made some healthy low-fat banana bread with pecans(Vcon), banana split brownies (VWAV), and coffee cake (VB).<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5XLJ1ySWgwqfn1FUNpWak56pAPdp5ffHS0lDl3gclpnDaHJuz1tr0FDyVnebxX7MLheeQWmq4P1CzRr_LcUYBVcAnOY_vzP_69CA4u6r5bhsMwpFdCIFta4xQINqeByWZn76IQA9slEc/s1600-h/bake+sale+mosaic.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5351094252993521090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5XLJ1ySWgwqfn1FUNpWak56pAPdp5ffHS0lDl3gclpnDaHJuz1tr0FDyVnebxX7MLheeQWmq4P1CzRr_LcUYBVcAnOY_vzP_69CA4u6r5bhsMwpFdCIFta4xQINqeByWZn76IQA9slEc/s400/bake+sale+mosaic.jpg" border="0" /></a> In addition to all the tasty vegan morsels for sale, we also had a literature table chock full of information on why we should all go vegan, including pamphlets from Peaceful Prairie, how to bake without eggs/dairy, vegan recipe booklets, and upcoming vegan events in Houston.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq8oHgIVS4x_tJFy1Te4Rc6mtof7gVARVxjm_3PUcK-KZ0SIMmZfJsDvxMNiYnGcSoxLIvaPxMtELlhFVayf59BuURzxYG7EmknND0za9P0jwjgzO1R7V83vfikl9xf6AofG9t-tsdXdA/s1600-h/bake+sale+2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5351084922826615698" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq8oHgIVS4x_tJFy1Te4Rc6mtof7gVARVxjm_3PUcK-KZ0SIMmZfJsDvxMNiYnGcSoxLIvaPxMtELlhFVayf59BuURzxYG7EmknND0za9P0jwjgzO1R7V83vfikl9xf6AofG9t-tsdXdA/s400/bake+sale+2.jpg" border="0" /></a>At the end of the day, we sold almost everything (plus, for those of us lucky enough to stick around till the end, we got our pick of the leftovers!). And in the process we spread the vegan word and raised <strong>$650</strong> for our friends at Peaceful Prairie Sanctuary!!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwgOXslGLBK6Y_IVDHDWN31mvTZTYwsZEpDIEbDSPWR4LY60YLgYPI8siml5EI6JD41cwIxabcQrmgHRKnhp4LfVEF7hLFg4HKBWJob3N9-_fxa-d-Sb__ogr_N-gt302t43m0SDHfnkU/s1600-h/bake+sale+3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5351084924121285410" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwgOXslGLBK6Y_IVDHDWN31mvTZTYwsZEpDIEbDSPWR4LY60YLgYPI8siml5EI6JD41cwIxabcQrmgHRKnhp4LfVEF7hLFg4HKBWJob3N9-_fxa-d-Sb__ogr_N-gt302t43m0SDHfnkU/s400/bake+sale+3.jpg" border="0" /></a> Thanks so much to our wonderful volunteers and talented bakers for making this happen, <a href="http://www.mangoscafehouston.com/">Mango's Cafe </a>for hosting (more on them in an upcoming post), the coordination efforts of the Worldwide Vegan Bake Sale folks, and everyone who came out to support us!Vegan_Noodlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946796454115691643noreply@blogger.com31tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8359137052016446422.post-37207519918689689702009-06-19T09:16:00.004-05:002009-06-19T10:50:47.858-05:00Houston Represents! Worldwide Vegan Bake Sale Tomorrow!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPG4V-dSKQ_jWCi4Y4ZIg7uHCkdzVs8Et9a0oQxt_6cS_-ZDKUhdMbffV3XNoZFKLcUwdY9o4pXJ13GnIAbQLQRNvF5Z0N_iN-XIsv_9ryZBKCD13UYauYJFhyphenhyphenZp3kdZFN2qcca77IoiA/s1600-h/bakesalehouston.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5349042529308273266" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPG4V-dSKQ_jWCi4Y4ZIg7uHCkdzVs8Et9a0oQxt_6cS_-ZDKUhdMbffV3XNoZFKLcUwdY9o4pXJ13GnIAbQLQRNvF5Z0N_iN-XIsv_9ryZBKCD13UYauYJFhyphenhyphenZp3kdZFN2qcca77IoiA/s400/bakesalehouston.bmp" border="0" /></a>Hey Houstonians! Join <a href="http://www.societyofpeace.org/">Society of PEACE </a>tomorrow as we represent the Bayou City in the <a href="http://www.veganbakesale.org/veganbakesale/index.html">Worldwide Vegan Bake Sale</a>! We will be at <a href="http://www.mangoscafehouston.com/">Mango's Vegetarian Cafe </a>(where you can also grab some excellent vegan brunch) tomorrow, June 20th, from 2:00-6:00pm. Proceeds will benefit <a href="http://www.peacefulprairie.org/">Peaceful Prairie Sanctuary </a>and Society of PEACE. Here's just a sampling of some of the goodies we are going to have:<br /><ul><li>Rice krispy and fruity pebble treats</li><li>Chocolate chip, mexican wedding, and ginger snap cookies</li><li>Cherry pineapple squares and pineapple upside down mini cakes</li><li>Plenty of cupcakes to choose from, including red velvet, chocolate, and coconut lime</li><li>Traditional and banana split brownies</li></ul><p>Not in the Houston area? Check out the <a href="http://www.veganbakesale.org/veganbakesale/vbs-where.html">mega-list </a>of other vegan bake sales happening all around the world in the next week. Hopefully there is one in your area, if not, throw one together yourself!</p><p>I will of course post a full report on the bake sale next week!<br /></p>Vegan_Noodlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946796454115691643noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8359137052016446422.post-9575021952410963672009-06-11T08:34:00.000-05:002009-06-11T09:47:56.824-05:00The Brunch CrawlEvery Sunday afternoon, my neighborhood is overtaken by drunken yuppy hipster brunchers literally crawling from one brunch hangout to another. Unfortunately, just about the only vegan item on the menu is a mimosa or a bloody mary (which I'm happy to partake in, but it leaves a girl needing some food!). So now join me on my own mini brunch crawl, courtesy of the fabulous new <a href="http://www.theppk.com/vegan-brunch.html">Vegan Brunch </a>cookbook, as I take you from the savory all the way to the sweet.<br /><br />First up are the Chesapeake tempeh cakes with a tangy remoulade sauce. Holy moly these things are tasty. For those of you that are tempeh-haters, give this recipe a try and I think you'll be pleasantly surprised. Really, you can't go wrong with capers and panko. If you don't have Vegan Brunch yet, you are in luck because this recipe is <a href="http://theppk.com/blog/2009/04/18/chesapeake-tempeh-cakes/">online</a>.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjngtM18pRgA50paBttyaBY0VBjbU8HmEplZ_YNG9WaqYqoTLjQTwXDwhb_3jhvvVmRvEoDlyTT8e5uxdc2Vum_VCWLyTb0afIt0ik_Cru_IrYj49tsir9oW5KYyLg_hDJb83kEylGwXuY/s1600-h/tempeh+cakes.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343589358243420194" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjngtM18pRgA50paBttyaBY0VBjbU8HmEplZ_YNG9WaqYqoTLjQTwXDwhb_3jhvvVmRvEoDlyTT8e5uxdc2Vum_VCWLyTb0afIt0ik_Cru_IrYj49tsir9oW5KYyLg_hDJb83kEylGwXuY/s400/tempeh+cakes.jpg" border="0" /></a> After a few failed previous attempts at making vegan omelets, this recipe made it so easy! I filled my omelet with roasted plum tomatoes, grilled asparagus, melted teese, and fresh basil. I could have eaten ten of these things they were that good. On the side are baked hashbrowns, a nice variation to the typical fried version.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJEbjsBmQAfCzCzhIr-CuMiS5N6CuhKgncNk5uB5INaLzGgf6cpTqoWOcD9G0v656XVyKuKbkYIeIRZFBXfB1HsURHFlzGpZIF4KPUTvySB1DD8FhLrfbWet17JauE93hPefHgUgoLTq1U/s1600-h/tofu+omelet.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343589353919316498" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJEbjsBmQAfCzCzhIr-CuMiS5N6CuhKgncNk5uB5INaLzGgf6cpTqoWOcD9G0v656XVyKuKbkYIeIRZFBXfB1HsURHFlzGpZIF4KPUTvySB1DD8FhLrfbWet17JauE93hPefHgUgoLTq1U/s400/tofu+omelet.jpg" border="0" /></a> Oh, the bagels. Now I know making bagels sounds a bit daunting to some but you must try it (plus people will be impressed). I literally ate three bagels 20 minutes after they came out of the oven, I couldn't stop myself. The toppings were a bit finicky with them coming off in the boiling water, but it was all worth it. I made an assortment of cinnamon-sugar, poppy seed, and sesame seed bagels. They were perfect plain but my favorite way to eat them was toasted and slathered with some tofutti.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY1er_5BMhwc6DAiDZWtyKzwYCe7JO9WwU1d2aCE9A29H347M3aOk1kxHrpMMFBahp5LTg7GveSEz-p8wU0qeA4jH_hTL-2Z3jqwrjERNMPq_uJf6JiVlA9QEe69BGbnTE4Xbc1Yc1TUhT/s1600-h/bagels.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343589349884886978" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY1er_5BMhwc6DAiDZWtyKzwYCe7JO9WwU1d2aCE9A29H347M3aOk1kxHrpMMFBahp5LTg7GveSEz-p8wU0qeA4jH_hTL-2Z3jqwrjERNMPq_uJf6JiVlA9QEe69BGbnTE4Xbc1Yc1TUhT/s400/bagels.jpg" border="0" /></a> And now moving on to a few sweeter items.... these are the bakery style berry muffins. I used a mixture of frozen raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, and a few frozen strawberries. These muffins had a delicate crumb... so delicate that a few of the berries exploded out (result of no muffin liner, but hey, that's bakery style!), but they were eaten regardless. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB8B3ZCD0UKrQHxUTU-BkW3oeiZ4hbZHSI5Z5EIuGJFmb4zUEOBAjzVtUD4TXN_R4NV5pTtWAqe3F_1bq1NogN8wwOATSQewdBvZ2gJ2eA4zViMJvS7ETvj1zN9fAMidV-3nuR8zn9TnnH/s1600-h/berry+muffins.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343589350876992178" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB8B3ZCD0UKrQHxUTU-BkW3oeiZ4hbZHSI5Z5EIuGJFmb4zUEOBAjzVtUD4TXN_R4NV5pTtWAqe3F_1bq1NogN8wwOATSQewdBvZ2gJ2eA4zViMJvS7ETvj1zN9fAMidV-3nuR8zn9TnnH/s400/berry+muffins.jpg" border="0" /></a> And the sweetest of all, really a dessert, the East Coast coffee cake. I followed Isa's suggested variation of adding both frozen raspberries <em>and</em> chocolate chips. This is a sure way to win over your friends and family when hosting vegan brunch. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht8vOK1NtyPfLenC8g8-ZN2x8H0jwbn47LMcrwPs2oLXh1hQVZB_pVAKLPPuf_GMfx44im3O-LfNgNWw8Eehc0iYeNKBcEymveZ9hs7Bp6i099s6ObbUziPbWFU8OVEJjegpE9FKXMppCC/s1600-h/coffee+cake.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343589352796052562" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht8vOK1NtyPfLenC8g8-ZN2x8H0jwbn47LMcrwPs2oLXh1hQVZB_pVAKLPPuf_GMfx44im3O-LfNgNWw8Eehc0iYeNKBcEymveZ9hs7Bp6i099s6ObbUziPbWFU8OVEJjegpE9FKXMppCC/s400/coffee+cake.jpg" border="0" /></a>So don't crawl, don't walk, run and get a copy of Vegan Brunch. You will have people lining up at your door for good food and good times on a Sunday afternoon! Oh, and don't forget the mimosas.Vegan_Noodlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946796454115691643noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8359137052016446422.post-90208936740779183082009-05-25T21:34:00.001-05:002009-05-25T22:01:44.283-05:00It's Not Spring Without a Little Bling BlingFriday night I had the most awesome job of baking and giving out (free!) over 150 vegan mini cupcakes to a crafty crowd of Houstonians at the <a href="http://www.apunkincardcompanyblog.com/2009/04/spring-bling-at-sew-crafty-flyer.html">Spring Bling </a>event. Held at <a href="http://www.sewcraftyhouston.com/">Sew Crafty </a>(my go to spot for learning all kinds of crafts), several local artists came out to show off their handmade goodies. Plus there was drop-in crafting fun for everyone! Plus appetizers, wine, candy, and vegan cupcakes, of course. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0rGn3OiFCTMD_hRkMlRqDhK2lNV6LqwZ4U8PK6tYYd1OeCQz8QRhK5DOHT-d7mKVemamQN9uOd_7vWjdZXGzXF4hmakidb644GzcPf4mt4qcRFPx8GLZ3KM-vSJxgZoOzjGYXUrwBRzyg/s1600-h/spring+bling+cupcake+tower.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339105196997819730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0rGn3OiFCTMD_hRkMlRqDhK2lNV6LqwZ4U8PK6tYYd1OeCQz8QRhK5DOHT-d7mKVemamQN9uOd_7vWjdZXGzXF4hmakidb644GzcPf4mt4qcRFPx8GLZ3KM-vSJxgZoOzjGYXUrwBRzyg/s400/spring+bling+cupcake+tower.jpg" border="0" /></a>These vanilla minis with lemony buttercream were the most blinged out of all my cupcakes. Hot pink <a href="http://www.bakeitpretty.com/item_696/Disco-Dust.htm">disco dust </a>is my new favorite thing to sprinkle on cupcakes!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcvQeVQQ8cu-Vg7FJ8uAzN_aol7nJVzh8iKvV4vrrsy-BER2Bu85v8zBI4oSj36tHWpKm3lZuw_s84UMgWWuD2zIYA_vdZhexK-wkQbhe2QTYxqWVhjB7IS5Sy3rU31HV2xLCIw12JoSfv/s1600-h/bling+cupcakes+1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339105201179189362" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcvQeVQQ8cu-Vg7FJ8uAzN_aol7nJVzh8iKvV4vrrsy-BER2Bu85v8zBI4oSj36tHWpKm3lZuw_s84UMgWWuD2zIYA_vdZhexK-wkQbhe2QTYxqWVhjB7IS5Sy3rU31HV2xLCIw12JoSfv/s400/bling+cupcakes+1.jpg" border="0" /></a> The crowd favorite was definitely the green tea minis with green tea glaze and finished with a marzipan flower (a la VCTOTW).<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQN_7jV9yZtV2oMhoUb9mZn8rV9rGPkOX1bZkU0kCT4P1Ib-m8sRHalkcmAaCNAmQrnNaUzWOlWJxqM-VuXhM1ZZufGuUsWNioqX2hoXptjjc6wBg6wCrTZeqPO4wJKabC7TKnbjGL3Kfi/s1600-h/bling+cupcakes+2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339105200521472770" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQN_7jV9yZtV2oMhoUb9mZn8rV9rGPkOX1bZkU0kCT4P1Ib-m8sRHalkcmAaCNAmQrnNaUzWOlWJxqM-VuXhM1ZZufGuUsWNioqX2hoXptjjc6wBg6wCrTZeqPO4wJKabC7TKnbjGL3Kfi/s400/bling+cupcakes+2.jpg" border="0" /></a> And no cupcake tower would be complete without at least <em>some</em> chocolate, and these minis served double duty. Chocolate cake topped with a swirl of mocha hazelnut mousse. They may not be pretty, but damn they were good!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfuM0O0zBC-hhPBlO3fGlbWNVfhQ8PJbC9Re9g_oVv9Vm4pTzrYWgWomIBX4Gk-MeGRCiKpeD1pXvjFEf9u_epBG1b_1nkfFtZxbjrqPaMOiRPvApTOgxe5oCTVaR6o4D4aRzua6oJ7dBr/s1600-h/bling+cupcakes+4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339893133334692098" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfuM0O0zBC-hhPBlO3fGlbWNVfhQ8PJbC9Re9g_oVv9Vm4pTzrYWgWomIBX4Gk-MeGRCiKpeD1pXvjFEf9u_epBG1b_1nkfFtZxbjrqPaMOiRPvApTOgxe5oCTVaR6o4D4aRzua6oJ7dBr/s400/bling+cupcakes+4.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />A shout out to all of the local crafters! You ladies inspire me.<br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5062482">A Punkin Card Company</a><br /><a href="http://www.apt3305.com/">Apt 3305</a> (I couldn't resist purchasing a dessert-themed sugar bowl and creamer from her)<br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=96786">Knotty by Nature</a>Vegan_Noodlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946796454115691643noreply@blogger.com44tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8359137052016446422.post-33021802025654827452009-05-21T08:53:00.001-05:002009-05-21T10:42:50.562-05:00Walking Like a Vegan Chic<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP3k8rKoCwL4dIR2E0TiL0VKfJGwP2S7AvH_6e9asCEuJFU6n10lChhzHrNDZa23ELVowQ0XPjOzGEG_RG_zcVsPQH_nocC9Scb1BfWYNF33WkAoxkw-uSFcrmjRyJrFKR566G3g3-DXOl/s1600-h/logo.bmp"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337720571540678434" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 252px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 101px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP3k8rKoCwL4dIR2E0TiL0VKfJGwP2S7AvH_6e9asCEuJFU6n10lChhzHrNDZa23ELVowQ0XPjOzGEG_RG_zcVsPQH_nocC9Scb1BfWYNF33WkAoxkw-uSFcrmjRyJrFKR566G3g3-DXOl/s400/logo.bmp" border="0" /></a> Have you heard that Vegetarian Shoes and Bags is now <a href="http://www.veganchic.com/">Vegan Chic</a>? And they have an even bigger selection of 100% vegan shoes, as well as bags, belts, wallets, and clothing! The easy-to-navigate website makes it a cinch to find what you're looking for. <a href="http://www.veganchic.com/products/Vegan-Eco-Sneak---Carat-by-Simple-Shoes+68378-0259.html">Eco-sneakers </a>for running errands around town? Check. <a href="http://www.veganchic.com/products/Casual-Gladiator-Inspired-Vegan-Sandal+68230-0015.html">Gladiator sandals </a>for brunch with the girls? Check. <a href="http://www.veganchic.com/products/Glamorous-Peep-Toe-Vegan-Pump+68189-0132.html">Sexy peep-toe pumps </a>for a night out with your honey? Check. Best of all, they have plenty of very <em>affordable</em> shoes (plus bags, wallets, and belts) in all the latest styles. <br /><br />So what look did I go for? Some <a href="http://www.veganchic.com/products/Vegan-Pump---Caroleena-by-Neuaura+68347-0251.html">super sexy, oxford-detailed vegan pumps </a>in cappuccino that will take me from the office to an evening of cocktails with friends. The Caroleena pump by Neuaura has a glossy brown finish with details that makes these shoes look more expensive than they actually are, but these shoes are built to last! I chose to wear mine without the ankle strap. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvconVSXEc0JtPWupLU8PXOMCITrQ4bbbRoAF0MmRklzuIxGC1R_SJkSUKMeDHT8CquANRbV-OdjXlFKNwW2FMaSvNy3syHD7aQekoT-GkpFMKRKOgbSs5upQ6cTOZI5iwTF9mdHOIO5fA/s1600-h/caroleena.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5338036365183466306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvconVSXEc0JtPWupLU8PXOMCITrQ4bbbRoAF0MmRklzuIxGC1R_SJkSUKMeDHT8CquANRbV-OdjXlFKNwW2FMaSvNy3syHD7aQekoT-GkpFMKRKOgbSs5upQ6cTOZI5iwTF9mdHOIO5fA/s400/caroleena.jpg" border="0" /></a> So the shoes <em>look</em> good but do they <em>feel </em>good? I felt these shoes ran true to size, though slightly on the narrow side (perfect for my narrow feet). The wide heel makes it such that I don't feel like I'm having to balance on my toes while walking. They certainly aren't as comfortable as my trusty flats, and if I didn't have a desk job I probably wouldn't last in them all day. But I thought they were cute enough to withstand a little pain. (no blisters, just sore arches and ankles) <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcoTyZiGfOrTAoG-gzQjtxTC55j5vdFavq6TFopEM64uyB8PcN-CCgwVdenlLS5_KTsR4iYLcOJXHNSKmHUFNjIgQp8Mq8zjkm4OyrFCzIuOcpjIW1l2GinFhy1zPx-AOYlH4FBGFjN4iL/s1600-h/caroleena2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5338036358309346482" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcoTyZiGfOrTAoG-gzQjtxTC55j5vdFavq6TFopEM64uyB8PcN-CCgwVdenlLS5_KTsR4iYLcOJXHNSKmHUFNjIgQp8Mq8zjkm4OyrFCzIuOcpjIW1l2GinFhy1zPx-AOYlH4FBGFjN4iL/s400/caroleena2.jpg" border="0" /></a> A lot of my friends often remark that they wouldn't waste their time purchasing shoes online... too risky. But I have found that with a little practice (yes, this likely involves returning a pair or two of shoes), you learn what brands and styles fit your feet. And for most vegans, there aren't too many options at local stores for quality footware. What are your experiences with buying shoes online? <br /><br />Thanks to <a href="http://www.veganchic.com/">Vegan Chic </a>for the opportunity to review a pair of shoes! They must have known that shoes are my weakness....Vegan_Noodlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946796454115691643noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8359137052016446422.post-60473000538766371432009-05-17T16:13:00.000-05:002009-05-17T19:32:31.848-05:00I Know You Were Expecting Mighty O's...Has it really been almost two months since I last posted? I didn't mean to drop off the face of blogworld, but it has been an emotionally challenging past few weeks and I really needed some time away. I am trying this weekend to catch up all of your blog posts, and can't wait to see what everyone has been up to!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp4nQxAhf4liII3C1XriPv9cwXLflBhuJ6ldvVUfU4OPz0M4NtV8lLamR8HiK8xBfSKC5aQB2mNns_wQ0mO2eFHtYtkaXyjF6jS21-CyuNTD91kxI7qanbUXFsPxbWvbju1ySpLAzDypr2/s1600-h/donuts.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5329854318903203458" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp4nQxAhf4liII3C1XriPv9cwXLflBhuJ6ldvVUfU4OPz0M4NtV8lLamR8HiK8xBfSKC5aQB2mNns_wQ0mO2eFHtYtkaXyjF6jS21-CyuNTD91kxI7qanbUXFsPxbWvbju1ySpLAzDypr2/s400/donuts.jpg" border="0" /></a>It feels like forever ago that I was promising yall photos of all the Mighty O's I was going to consume in Seattle. Unfortunately, that trip didn't happen, but I wasn't about to go without donuts! So I used <a href="http://veganyumyum.com/2007/02/mini-donut-test-kitchen/">Vegan YumYum's recipe </a>to make these baked donuts with chocolate glaze and <a href="http://www.veganstore.com/food-items/other-chocolates/organic-sprinkles/Page_1/404.html">vegan sprinkles</a>. A suitable substitute until I can get back up to Seattle.<br /><br />To celebrate Earth Day our <a href="http://societyofpeace.org/">local vegan group </a>organized a potluck picnic, which always means lots of great food to sample! Since we were minus a kitchen at my place (we were getting wood floors installed throughout the house), I went with a simple but classic picnic favorite... potato salad! My favorite recipe lately has been the one from Skinny Bitch in the Kitch, but I just spotted an avocado potato salad in the new <a href="http://www.cosmosveganshoppe.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=VBRPB">Vegan Brunch book </a>that I'm excited to try.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGU69jcB-y_DQLd4Ux_qRXy6iYoCCCLjXVzBju5FVllwLNKLEyUFJt7hfVVUeh1VT9ZtbiwC3k4coICl7Wr2uVMjitvWztE28-ZA0Gz5yFpTWwnNwVTK7Uhokm4bIorKhzLEbpg6L87RcI/s1600-h/picnic+food+mosaic.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5329868557707698914" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 202px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGU69jcB-y_DQLd4Ux_qRXy6iYoCCCLjXVzBju5FVllwLNKLEyUFJt7hfVVUeh1VT9ZtbiwC3k4coICl7Wr2uVMjitvWztE28-ZA0Gz5yFpTWwnNwVTK7Uhokm4bIorKhzLEbpg6L87RcI/s400/picnic+food+mosaic.jpg" border="0" /></a>Did I mention I visited NYC for a long weekend as well? Despite the rainy weather, John and I walked up and down Manhattan Island in search of good vegan (for me) and Italian (for him) food, while seeing some of the sights along the way. One of the coolest things we saw was on Ellis Island, where John's grandparents had their names engraved on the immigrant wall... a piece of family history! So I know you're waiting now for food pics, but I didn't take any! So instead you get a photo of me on the Brooklyn Bridge....<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5lFPynHqOVhn0TnVdBffWZ1nM8ZfxWm2qdeFeGZHepY59ppfm9Ojz3MP3hXzcDL6EgTnJp1G7aRZeo48v32h3dBe2I4vbEpF2j0dK0oM7qBCrv2Zgv1RCvllPTjSuZ386yb0wkpywMTgo/s1600-h/brooklyn+bridge.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5336468725861010610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5lFPynHqOVhn0TnVdBffWZ1nM8ZfxWm2qdeFeGZHepY59ppfm9Ojz3MP3hXzcDL6EgTnJp1G7aRZeo48v32h3dBe2I4vbEpF2j0dK0oM7qBCrv2Zgv1RCvllPTjSuZ386yb0wkpywMTgo/s400/brooklyn+bridge.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Okay, so maybe I took one or two food photos, here is a spelt chocolate cupcake from Babycakes! I also picked up their new cookbook, and am excited to try some of their recipes in my own kitchen. In addition to Babycakes, this was the food line-up: fauz meat dinner at Red Bamboo, pizza in Little Italy, fancy dinner at Candle 79, and brunch at Counter. I desperately wanted to make it to Lulu's for ice cream but ran out of time. Gives me yet another reason to return.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPVO_mZtoP4wfb3j_PDsich1upVDluUpkxpxuv2jHPZJpcd4aMs_QP6NszRqXrRnCZbD7S1PyxEjbrb4lax4bWuZp_4hIFEv-D4tCbG0l8sD_1r-DYvy34lxE6b7J1NddV1hrzMiMhUpik/s1600-h/babycakes.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5336468729001359330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPVO_mZtoP4wfb3j_PDsich1upVDluUpkxpxuv2jHPZJpcd4aMs_QP6NszRqXrRnCZbD7S1PyxEjbrb4lax4bWuZp_4hIFEv-D4tCbG0l8sD_1r-DYvy34lxE6b7J1NddV1hrzMiMhUpik/s400/babycakes.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><p>And check out the goodies I got in the mail this week...<br /></p><p><a href="http://veganeatsandtreats.blogspot.com/"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5336951086126726754" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR9tl0pckB35dWpR0p1Uj1CV2o6d8-SZGbtIFgeuQRK4NEDXfXYWDjN407pQtIFDziSw4k0YnBQWTydWTY1KEaP1ICFkJ92m0PiCwkxxkHSTUywzLX6xuDr8QWReHrlsMgEDz65VnTRrtI/s400/ameys+cookies.jpg" border="0" /> Amey </a>sent me homemade cookies! From the top down they are maple walnut, chocolate cherry almond (my favorite of the three), and chocolate chip. Thanks so much Amey for sweetening up my week; these cookies put a big smile on my face. </p><p>No plans to be disappearing again. I have a shoe and book review to post soon!<br /></p>Vegan_Noodlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946796454115691643noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8359137052016446422.post-40572260152338653272009-04-01T09:00:00.001-06:002009-04-01T09:11:34.643-06:00Snuggle Up for a WIP Wednesday<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4sqSRNPZNK6Ew-3oZ1xT1-JASR7xbkv78ebiLZXB71YQ1GE-vvP7NZolVTJCaIrhTcQXJmzWyObA3P3nOLdEqDnZfIdf09WRTreKCN8nRg_Z9ikY0W4qD1fozEwbAgiwjaFYoNLifsg64/s1600-h/wip.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319739385047440050" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 80px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4sqSRNPZNK6Ew-3oZ1xT1-JASR7xbkv78ebiLZXB71YQ1GE-vvP7NZolVTJCaIrhTcQXJmzWyObA3P3nOLdEqDnZfIdf09WRTreKCN8nRg_Z9ikY0W4qD1fozEwbAgiwjaFYoNLifsg64/s400/wip.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />So many crafts! So little time! For this Work-In Progress Wednesday post I'm showing off a bunch of finished projects. So grab a cup of tea, a snuggly blanket, and follow along...<br /><br />First, it's time to reveal this month's completed <a href="http://shellyfish.wordpress.com/2009/03/04/wip-wednesday-featured-wipster-krys-of-two-vegan-boys-our-march-stitch-along/">stitch-along</a>! The last few days I have been embroidering like a mad woman to finish up the <a href="http://weewonderfuls.typepad.com/wee_wonderfuls/store/bearbunny.html">Bear & Bunny dolls</a>. I must admit to struggling a bit with stitching up the final bit after stuffing. My slip stitch isn't the best, so I often resort to other techniques (such as forcing the stuffed animal through my sewing machine, with mixed success). But it worked out in the end and these two dollies have now found good homes. (oh, and that is my childhood Easter basket with them that my crafty mom made!)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1wn4Nhh2USzIIGHCSWowfq3WFILLtOty4ukjU4DlsKTroznWmm2JckzIeoGvDL1bpSZo2kHigVY08ylXWD8Dgs1hKp17inlwY7IbvKUF6xXTUeJLE09Huryy1kt29WCMqqC7LFfrfoncT/s1600-h/march+stitch+along+1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319489673513149746" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1wn4Nhh2USzIIGHCSWowfq3WFILLtOty4ukjU4DlsKTroznWmm2JckzIeoGvDL1bpSZo2kHigVY08ylXWD8Dgs1hKp17inlwY7IbvKUF6xXTUeJLE09Huryy1kt29WCMqqC7LFfrfoncT/s400/march+stitch+along+1.jpg" border="0" /></a> I made these boxer shorts for my brother's birthday (hopefully he won't read this and spoil the surprise). This is my first pattern from <em><a href="http://www.makeworkshop.com/content/sewbook/sewbook.html">Sew Everything Workshop</a></em>, and the directions were a bit cryptic for me, but I was still happy with the final product.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTRjGVk93xJzUk8v8_Os95J5ho34bF1ayp-_v10tlEtYjINq9yU1NNwZ9DF2wzAiOhxiJtU6ZvhkB-tT2Vk8Q2kE1GSlWAlu7XCH1lkhFXsdTLFQsYePp3Yt6C_9NlxuVxUyhE6UCTZQ1w/s1600-h/hula+girl+boxers.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319489671298542882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTRjGVk93xJzUk8v8_Os95J5ho34bF1ayp-_v10tlEtYjINq9yU1NNwZ9DF2wzAiOhxiJtU6ZvhkB-tT2Vk8Q2kE1GSlWAlu7XCH1lkhFXsdTLFQsYePp3Yt6C_9NlxuVxUyhE6UCTZQ1w/s400/hula+girl+boxers.jpg" border="0" /></a>Did you know that March 20 was <a href="http://www.meatout.org/">Meatout Day 2009</a>? Actually, everyday should be meatout day as far as I'm concerned, but that's beside the point. Our <a href="http://www.societyofpeace.org/">local vegan group </a>held a movie screening with an accompanying bake sale, so I made vanilla Meatout cupcakes complete with a fondant piece of meat.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijxpsqn88cnmnoN8K6JmFjDBIE3Tffmj-IGIzhO15vdLfSyN5-qufjEOjf-pSaowoyggeGQDJJYJXqKbb270Ak_Ycf7rsHtI17QUIGEkl_3Wph2X79mXxrUqRh-wXP9Mmdpk9w7ampavEf/s1600-h/meatout+cupcakes.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319195613842116786" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijxpsqn88cnmnoN8K6JmFjDBIE3Tffmj-IGIzhO15vdLfSyN5-qufjEOjf-pSaowoyggeGQDJJYJXqKbb270Ak_Ycf7rsHtI17QUIGEkl_3Wph2X79mXxrUqRh-wXP9Mmdpk9w7ampavEf/s400/meatout+cupcakes.jpg" border="0" /></a> Remember those giraffe parts strewn about that I showed you last time? Well here is the final first birthday cake. The recipient was even sweet enough to send me a few pics of her little one blowing out the candles and getting all messy with the cake (I made a separate, mini-cake just for that). So cute!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ROkwlKrww0ov3HZONk7etry719Sh_uHNN9AuDpyb6qhubSxX3mCw8HS8HrYDJk0-zxhy9ynfdKx_z_Tv2mbaNI3Y2ZbZciwimOckr1CJJTQbc-0MS4wMPyFATSGZxUcYJSluYFsKnXPT/s1600-h/giraffe+cake.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319195484851049218" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ROkwlKrww0ov3HZONk7etry719Sh_uHNN9AuDpyb6qhubSxX3mCw8HS8HrYDJk0-zxhy9ynfdKx_z_Tv2mbaNI3Y2ZbZciwimOckr1CJJTQbc-0MS4wMPyFATSGZxUcYJSluYFsKnXPT/s400/giraffe+cake.jpg" border="0" /></a>I finished sewing the first of three aprons this past week, and I love the way it turned out! The pattern is from Amy Butler's book <em><a href="http://www.amybutlerdesign.com/products/books_detail.php#institches">In Stitches</a></em>. A quick and easy pattern that can easily be finished in a few evenings of sewing.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM1Jzz8t-z_Ug5iuVLlSB3QxguNFDxTC909nCpi8fIiu884g9MoyDQrpqlGPC0a_Iiygzb4WOp8McvXUhZxXTuMi9Y0Q5efSFO5p4vk-eSm17dr3v4nGsyzx8G7Ot6quKnDbwFNZZodCD_/s1600-h/apron.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319194585347862082" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM1Jzz8t-z_Ug5iuVLlSB3QxguNFDxTC909nCpi8fIiu884g9MoyDQrpqlGPC0a_Iiygzb4WOp8McvXUhZxXTuMi9Y0Q5efSFO5p4vk-eSm17dr3v4nGsyzx8G7Ot6quKnDbwFNZZodCD_/s400/apron.jpg" border="0" /></a> And my final sewing project to show off... I made this fleece-lined paw print blanket to donate to the <a href="http://www.snugglesproject.org/">Snuggles Project</a>, which provides blankets to animal shelters. My hope is that a lonely cat or dog finds some tiny bit of comfort in resting on this blanket rather than a concrete floor. My stuffed koala, Barnaby, is demonstrating one potential use.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQYpycT67oBFhroscriDPoON9FEX0BoTiMmFg_LIEAcbPBrkHfV8ZSiptot-TpDTJlTzE_x7uD8qhG2QfVXBBrsfd7l4djwGwxkjpkbxdoF3QVqi-oCQtJh-y_8qzJUj-YACkcUSAC52i1/s1600-h/snuggles+blanket.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319489676814325634" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQYpycT67oBFhroscriDPoON9FEX0BoTiMmFg_LIEAcbPBrkHfV8ZSiptot-TpDTJlTzE_x7uD8qhG2QfVXBBrsfd7l4djwGwxkjpkbxdoF3QVqi-oCQtJh-y_8qzJUj-YACkcUSAC52i1/s400/snuggles+blanket.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />That about wraps it up for this <a href="http://shellyfish.wordpress.com/wip-wednesday/">WIP Wednesday</a>! Be sure to check out other wipsters posts!<br /><br />I am off to Seattle this weekend to visit my sister and have a girly few days of facials, yoga, baking, visiting a chocolate factory, and shopping. And of course, there will be <a href="http://www.mightyo.com/">Mighty O's</a>, lots of Mighty O's....Vegan_Noodlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946796454115691643noreply@blogger.com43tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8359137052016446422.post-37876912846565034882009-03-29T15:45:00.002-06:002009-03-30T09:43:55.048-06:00Daring Bakers Challenge: Noodles!! for Lasagna<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRBwWlZHp0KoJqqv4SqAu8kasS_rPrT4etVJxEQttWRaON0D4-467CRT-oFQ9GoywbjhEeDRHN4Iy1VMR8I39Eiqm2LSc2GwPpXnQRNPXxslnpb2vRxNn5jpc04cMmeCEmlNsPbGmyEj2k/s1600-h/group_w200x150.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318668544672012738" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRBwWlZHp0KoJqqv4SqAu8kasS_rPrT4etVJxEQttWRaON0D4-467CRT-oFQ9GoywbjhEeDRHN4Iy1VMR8I39Eiqm2LSc2GwPpXnQRNPXxslnpb2vRxNn5jpc04cMmeCEmlNsPbGmyEj2k/s200/group_w200x150.jpg" border="0" /></a>Time once again for another Daring Bakers Challenge!! Only this month we have a <a href="http://thedaringkitchen.com/">new website</a>, new logos, and a very different kind of challenge: making your own pasta! And not just any pasta, spinach lasagna noodles layered with a country ragu and bechamel sauce. Veganizing this challenge wasn't even an issue. Those eggs that pasta recipes call for? Not needed at all! For the pasta dough I used a recipe from Nonna's Italian Kitchen, but substituted semolina flour for regular flour and added pureed spinach. I made my ragu using a simple marinara sauce recipe and adding some texture in the form of sauteed onions, green pepper, soy crumbles, fresh basil, and plenty of garlic. The bechamel started with a simple roux of Earth Balance and flour, with soymilk, white pepper, and nutmeg added to the mix and thickened. But really the whole process is best illustrated in pictorial format...<br /><br />Since I am lucky enough to have a husband who is half Italian, we actually own a pasta machine! Not that I've ever used it until now. With John's help we cranked out pasta sheet after pasta sheet...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPAd80gZ7DsHk6RY2k0hjdtXAwCL-EEqMoiAYc5prs_sq4NsW2DFKYrzSWh6QcuzRiYqI4YB53DWmSbFZ5XCU2oo4Pb-n6g1F1PqTKyZY1VLGHrFjN37rvmrfL5edhF8DJ_I1GmatmEPOa/s1600-h/rolling.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318665336877710914" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPAd80gZ7DsHk6RY2k0hjdtXAwCL-EEqMoiAYc5prs_sq4NsW2DFKYrzSWh6QcuzRiYqI4YB53DWmSbFZ5XCU2oo4Pb-n6g1F1PqTKyZY1VLGHrFjN37rvmrfL5edhF8DJ_I1GmatmEPOa/s400/rolling.jpg" border="0" /></a> After cutting the pasta into shapes resembling lasagna noodles, they were spread out to dry. I had quite a bit of pasta leftover!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwQxt_fXCO4PYyEs7aTF5UiPNK6eqbVijfsrjlNLjxySM65fWBWgvx_SNnqCkb3Zt6o4IqNWrCj5w0Km3HB-XxU5HIrHASqKR56gh5R0R2Gf76AdCstzdIRJyrkOIuPiRvfJG2Yt9sT8-a/s1600-h/pasta+drying.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318726699072994850" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwQxt_fXCO4PYyEs7aTF5UiPNK6eqbVijfsrjlNLjxySM65fWBWgvx_SNnqCkb3Zt6o4IqNWrCj5w0Km3HB-XxU5HIrHASqKR56gh5R0R2Gf76AdCstzdIRJyrkOIuPiRvfJG2Yt9sT8-a/s400/pasta+drying.jpg" border="0" /></a>Vegan Noodle holding one long vegan noodle!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtxPXe7dLJPl9EZ_uaRe0R7GuNAGuaWvS4PZi6R4fKgOgw7B6V6NsSwZ0k6IVasiOhPi0xg238wWfuJ6yilOYg6avBsBDWO5WfpiEmXxsjv69pRxHfht_7pEvGJ_N3VdwqfGG2fdPomvhP/s1600-h/one+really+long+noodle.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318665325171337394" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtxPXe7dLJPl9EZ_uaRe0R7GuNAGuaWvS4PZi6R4fKgOgw7B6V6NsSwZ0k6IVasiOhPi0xg238wWfuJ6yilOYg6avBsBDWO5WfpiEmXxsjv69pRxHfht_7pEvGJ_N3VdwqfGG2fdPomvhP/s400/one+really+long+noodle.jpg" border="0" /></a> Sauces simmering....<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD0EFrEfvgZxq26QfKD-aKOsRnVrQHtwuz9dchrAqslOpN1XO2SzxswucxK2xrN2Wu9Z5_SALfV63eGnnNDec24MDOFxWmlJ7btCuLxEkqOI59cSTBEqWFyEqH5yz_HDFieItEYjVfoA_4/s1600-h/sauces+simmering.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318727069823285186" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD0EFrEfvgZxq26QfKD-aKOsRnVrQHtwuz9dchrAqslOpN1XO2SzxswucxK2xrN2Wu9Z5_SALfV63eGnnNDec24MDOFxWmlJ7btCuLxEkqOI59cSTBEqWFyEqH5yz_HDFieItEYjVfoA_4/s400/sauces+simmering.jpg" border="0" /></a>One thing about making your own pasta... it makes a mess. Flour everywhere and in every crevice!! It was even all over the floor by the time we finished.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizQWv3S_sTs1y_3_De_U6ywpUvRnRglh1YRj-GbAIMvl_VwCX5tRSekrmdOIJ1nfd500fbX_lk5ZMmwq6yHt8Da7YalC71groDAk4xr9aS1fvIyrtU8_7w5pn_z1mj7wzUACwEYwKzUG_3/s1600-h/flour+everywhere.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318665340933735554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizQWv3S_sTs1y_3_De_U6ywpUvRnRglh1YRj-GbAIMvl_VwCX5tRSekrmdOIJ1nfd500fbX_lk5ZMmwq6yHt8Da7YalC71groDAk4xr9aS1fvIyrtU8_7w5pn_z1mj7wzUACwEYwKzUG_3/s400/flour+everywhere.jpg" border="0" /></a> But it was all worth it in the end. I'm not sure I'll ever be quite as happy with dried pasta. The two sauces complimented each other nicely and the noodles were amazing.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ9KJr8Rfrzm4kr4p-_1HGH_A5ZFwkHBKCXzXCOLSyQZAjvS9_x0799irX1vmS4chTgEEJrpJihngoHiXg_cndDivRDz4Wj79ZbYQuaXghu1waZJq2akJIuXHM3ar6GhUzVoMvoSolbOvD/s1600-h/lasagna.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318679208277403218" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZ9KJr8Rfrzm4kr4p-_1HGH_A5ZFwkHBKCXzXCOLSyQZAjvS9_x0799irX1vmS4chTgEEJrpJihngoHiXg_cndDivRDz4Wj79ZbYQuaXghu1waZJq2akJIuXHM3ar6GhUzVoMvoSolbOvD/s400/lasagna.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><em>The March 2009 challenge is hosted by Mary of Beans and Caviar, Melinda of Melbourne Larder and Enza of Io Da Grande. They have chosen Lasagne of Emilia-Romagna from The Splendid Table by Lynne Rossetto Kasper as the challenge. </em>Vegan_Noodlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946796454115691643noreply@blogger.com53tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8359137052016446422.post-48032147465796578422009-03-25T18:34:00.002-06:002009-03-25T20:28:46.489-06:00Breathing Some Soul Into My Kitchen<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-2cK9vV3qz1h-G18UrvoJ9YGdW_FphyphenhyphenB6KvS2Pcxo_HTy6Ocv6S2H5-FiPiiqTXC9VQhyphenhyphenrs6AYA8MB-L_4k7ix-0X4s9coGXyfKQ3u5AXjmCxTGGNfBJc3iseWG4GNNmDZCIQdYRx2TCs/s1600-h/vegan+soul+kitchen.png"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317266009334761394" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 162px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-2cK9vV3qz1h-G18UrvoJ9YGdW_FphyphenhyphenB6KvS2Pcxo_HTy6Ocv6S2H5-FiPiiqTXC9VQhyphenhyphenrs6AYA8MB-L_4k7ix-0X4s9coGXyfKQ3u5AXjmCxTGGNfBJc3iseWG4GNNmDZCIQdYRx2TCs/s200/vegan+soul+kitchen.png" border="0" /></a> You would think that since I grew up in the South, my formative years were filled with Southern comfort and soul foods. Truth be told I was never a fan of fried chicken, grits, collard greens, or most of the staples of the South. But all of that seems to have changed in the last few years (except for the chicken part, of course), and now I savor the flavors of soul cuisine. So when I was asked to review <em>Vegan Soul Kitchen,</em> a new cookbook by Bryant Terry, I took that chance to breathe a little bit of soul into my kitchen.... and here's what I came up with.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br />One mandatory recipe to make (for anyone who gets this book) is the one that inspired the book itself; citrus collards with raisins redux. This was my first time cooking collards in my kitchen, and I was worried that the bitterness would be too much for me. Wrong! The burst of citrus and sweetness of the raisins was the perfect compliment to the greens.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLzBsZFmAZF_CyWoy2iyZD0n4-dXUCuz1ZpTPLM47pUYAxWLC85YyKY5EQ2aHMBLMk9-KchreNSUxMF0NKYzAy4kqyQnDi9bJVhiaoaCbbQ2bLQlsqpGkkBRLjRc2kf_1TkvVHZn8iEoFT/s1600-h/citrus+collards.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5316963931084247362" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLzBsZFmAZF_CyWoy2iyZD0n4-dXUCuz1ZpTPLM47pUYAxWLC85YyKY5EQ2aHMBLMk9-KchreNSUxMF0NKYzAy4kqyQnDi9bJVhiaoaCbbQ2bLQlsqpGkkBRLjRc2kf_1TkvVHZn8iEoFT/s400/citrus+collards.jpg" border="0" /></a>Along with the collards, I made whole-grain mustard and cornmeal crusted seitan and sweet cornmeal-coconut butter drop biscuits. The biscuits ended up looking more like cookies, but none of that mattered once you slathered on a little Earth Balance and took a bite... these just melted in my mouth. I also loved the crunch I got from using coarse cornmeal.<br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5316963931852893826" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9VY6LbSKTv3o1Dp9q-QKmBHI9tOOihlC7zvHEu2Q6yDRb90p8KgDm2DhqfW9PW3qDlXFPWTOPbJmTY1yxu5qlbMC9eg7JhGFS7YRZG5gBJTsHm6TzL1IS-7SYTQd9wWiJfu9-uKKQH1tV/s400/cornmeal+drop+biscuits.jpg" border="0" /><br />Another meal I made was the blackened tofu slabs with succotash salsa. The blackened tofu was quite a hit, and I liked his suggestion of chilling, slicing, and putting it on a salad. The succotash was alright, I don't think it turned out so well because I used both frozen corn and lima beans (fresh is recommended), plus my tomatoes were less than stellar. But during the right season (summer) I think this would really compliment the tofu.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWVPRtVSSk_1STM9gmm57YPzoA5Hv1hvWy9QWs_5t6WXioGPPnsAT6F3-4rIOgaEg_Zmp7c67EMdpXpCEcrshYyAZyY60KNjtWZIKLRKMF4ewAS3lAcfMGoLuJ2fQmbbCxh3OU5_GYZGgE/s1600-h/blackened+tofu+and+lima+salsa.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5316963922691434082" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWVPRtVSSk_1STM9gmm57YPzoA5Hv1hvWy9QWs_5t6WXioGPPnsAT6F3-4rIOgaEg_Zmp7c67EMdpXpCEcrshYyAZyY60KNjtWZIKLRKMF4ewAS3lAcfMGoLuJ2fQmbbCxh3OU5_GYZGgE/s400/blackened+tofu+and+lima+salsa.jpg" border="0" /></a> And to round out my review, tonight I whipped up a trio of salads for dinner, including: carrot-cayenne coleslaw, chilled citrus broccoli salad, and roasted red potato salad with parsley-pine nut pesto. The pesto had a very unique flavor, thanks to the addition of miso I am guessing. Next time I would use more red pepper, but this is a potato salad that would certainly please a crowd. The broccoli was also full of flavor, though the citrus wasn't too overpowering. The only unfortunate thing is that the acid in the citrus turned my bright green broccoli into a mucky brown color! The coleslaw wasn't much of a standout, and I didn't end up tasting the cayenne at all. But my cabbage-loving husband still devoured it with pleasure.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmJHu-GeKoRM5yxFuH-yOmyZ5ayDnoKkbrUWiqWCgS-bCufel-_Lc7Bl64EXdJnZrZJ_TxUAFGAZOirKofSjHqIzS6Lp2V1PxIL_hZzqxKALKyGXci1IP_IwlF8Ia1f4OgkZWyGHX5x3w8/s1600-h/vegan+soul+salads.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317285102658186738" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmJHu-GeKoRM5yxFuH-yOmyZ5ayDnoKkbrUWiqWCgS-bCufel-_Lc7Bl64EXdJnZrZJ_TxUAFGAZOirKofSjHqIzS6Lp2V1PxIL_hZzqxKALKyGXci1IP_IwlF8Ia1f4OgkZWyGHX5x3w8/s400/vegan+soul+salads.jpg" border="0" /></a>Overall, I have really enjoyed the recipes from Vegan Soul Kitchen. Bryant Terry gives us quite a variety of traditional southern recipes, but with a modern twist. The tone in his directions is smooth and relaxed (he actually told me to "massage" my broccoli!). And his soundtrack selection for each dish allows the food to really sing to you in more ways than one (though I didn't have too many of them on my iTunes playlist). Surprisingly, though, I'm not even sure Bryant Terry is a vegan (based on his comments in the introduction... haven't confirmed this!). I guess this is one detail I am willing to overlook, because I sure do like his soul food!Vegan_Noodlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946796454115691643noreply@blogger.com37tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8359137052016446422.post-58481146511926605962009-03-18T17:17:00.000-06:002009-03-18T18:05:19.877-06:00Dust Off the Shelf - The ClassicsIt's time to dust off my cookbook shelf <a href="http://walkingtheveganline.blogspot.com/2009/01/dust-off-shelf-uncheese-kitch-maximus.html">again</a>! This time with a triple shot of Sarah Kramer and a double dose of Tanya Barnard: La Dolce Vegan, How it all Vegan, and The Garden of Vegan. Like many of you out there, these cookbooks were the first thing I turned to when I went vegan (hence the post title, "the classics"). And it was a good thing too, because they are filled with familiar recipes that are generally simple to prepare and taste delicious.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT0qFalTUZ5gPcDcZ2VW6ZVvXnt1-Z8oLHhU1JCV5ulZoASaT_N6KHBB287ruhOkF_csnb23IoHROTo_zgCEMzNUY3gie-TSNoMq5UnLlbe_1RzyvBwnjIeObivSlmI3STLowMRLUCCjXL/s1600-h/kramer+cookbooks.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5310513224687742658" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT0qFalTUZ5gPcDcZ2VW6ZVvXnt1-Z8oLHhU1JCV5ulZoASaT_N6KHBB287ruhOkF_csnb23IoHROTo_zgCEMzNUY3gie-TSNoMq5UnLlbe_1RzyvBwnjIeObivSlmI3STLowMRLUCCjXL/s400/kramer+cookbooks.jpg" border="0" /></a> From <em>La Dolce Vegan</em>, I cooked up the Aloo Gobi Potatoes and Cauliflower, making sure I added plenty of peas (a favorite of mine in Indian dishes). This was the perfect quick meal: a short ingredient list and minimal cook time, plus the result was full of flavor and rivaled the aloo gobi at my favorite Indian restaurant in town! Served with my favorite lemon basmati rice on the side.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbOf7OtyyaWoWK2yVOsa8D4Pj3UjhiP4-GJ-yJfUKoKVuMMjyU-rHV4SyZ78-hZkZpLeECPdKduJ3zWtehWORHOzXwg-q-LB3Jfqqq0QM_nz8e5aQCBTkL-ijxdav56a6cs49S204oyxAA/s1600-h/aloo+gobi.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5310530075867621666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbOf7OtyyaWoWK2yVOsa8D4Pj3UjhiP4-GJ-yJfUKoKVuMMjyU-rHV4SyZ78-hZkZpLeECPdKduJ3zWtehWORHOzXwg-q-LB3Jfqqq0QM_nz8e5aQCBTkL-ijxdav56a6cs49S204oyxAA/s400/aloo+gobi.jpg" border="0" /></a> In <em>The Garden of Vegan</em>, I dove right into the extensive dessert section. I was looking for something to build a cute housewarming gift around, and these lemon poppyseed shortbreads were just the thing. Lemon is such a fresh and inviting scent; perfect for a new homeowner! I wrapped the cookies with a cute yellow bow and added it to a box with a lemon tea towel, zester, squeezer, and a tiny bottle of lemon oil.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFSz2zHK5qMO8NOCwnkh7pkKA0kxNZTsFryvnhLdyIGLuoFNIA3oSTZ-nExIy3qAn3EVKYrS3tQs3byf6JGJcGGx5w3A2H00jYju-Jby91x8CY8HzdVpQw0GJ90xze4s-R8mPxeFMgJdRD/s1600-h/lemon+poppyseed+shortbreads.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5310511894497859234" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFSz2zHK5qMO8NOCwnkh7pkKA0kxNZTsFryvnhLdyIGLuoFNIA3oSTZ-nExIy3qAn3EVKYrS3tQs3byf6JGJcGGx5w3A2H00jYju-Jby91x8CY8HzdVpQw0GJ90xze4s-R8mPxeFMgJdRD/s400/lemon+poppyseed+shortbreads.jpg" border="0" /></a> And finally, from <em>How It All Vegan</em> I made one of my childhood favorites -veganized-... chocolate chip cookie bars. Part cookie, part cakey brownie, but all parts good. These turned out so moist and fluffy, it was difficult not to eat the whole pan!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXt1Xvd5EdbH26aFoKSENwN0Qt0reaMeyBAL9ymsVremxXwhDYCbBoyYhoTN9CBFEYJsG26sMXvgQEBj-BIfmWO53rnmo-bT17LwOIhsJJMva4_owMfJ4HZQS3Jtp9lPdgDCsacPCvxmtN/s1600-h/chocolate+chip+bar.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5314681102913211970" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXt1Xvd5EdbH26aFoKSENwN0Qt0reaMeyBAL9ymsVremxXwhDYCbBoyYhoTN9CBFEYJsG26sMXvgQEBj-BIfmWO53rnmo-bT17LwOIhsJJMva4_owMfJ4HZQS3Jtp9lPdgDCsacPCvxmtN/s400/chocolate+chip+bar.jpg" border="0" /></a> So now my cookbook shelf is looking rather spiffy and well used... but it will surely collect dust once again, and that's when I'll be back with another round of Dust Off the Shelf!Vegan_Noodlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946796454115691643noreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8359137052016446422.post-37314993109158509132009-03-11T17:00:00.001-06:002009-03-11T17:18:16.948-06:00Fabric and Fondant<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5CgGwBjgFr9vSM6vgwelLNpQfQ3MNrjr17VEBxCgnggvIH8St3Wkr-8P2qJoUBGGOh4Nr_lj0wJClVK9grFni9sNNANiCf94SGVlFRnpGCdjUPrk-HWRQdMFVSxSFFCREeJ-FlHJubj8R/s1600-h/wip+logo.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5312071858437526786" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 175px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 135px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5CgGwBjgFr9vSM6vgwelLNpQfQ3MNrjr17VEBxCgnggvIH8St3Wkr-8P2qJoUBGGOh4Nr_lj0wJClVK9grFni9sNNANiCf94SGVlFRnpGCdjUPrk-HWRQdMFVSxSFFCREeJ-FlHJubj8R/s320/wip+logo.jpg" border="0" /></a> It's time for another <a href="http://shellyfish.wordpress.com/wip-wednesday/">Work-In-Progress Wednesday</a>! This week I'm focusing on fondant and fabric, my two weapons of choice when it comes to creating lately.<br /><br />I finished up sewing my sun and surf halter top with the help of my <a href="http://www.sewcraftyhouston.com/">Sew Crafty peeps</a>. I love the fabric and can't wait to wear this around the beach when summer rolls around. To celebrate, I of course brought cupcakes. I made the VCTOTW S'mores cupcakes but added a chocolate ganache layer beneath the frosting to add extra chocolatey flavor and added ricemallow cream to the frosting (both tips courtesy of <a href="http://www.consciouskitchen.net/">Conscious Kitchen</a>). The ganache was still warmy when I frosted them, so they ended up being all gooey.... just like a good s'more should be!<br /><br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbjAeTc7ST9sbVImlpXtAuR9QXc8Eep2WyNAbeIu38goWR3Hn7H7f8z3tvU2ZTnsIkfedVIczBiJYkDkj4CQGAAkNLdoR5U4BfOQER8fTOuMnlaGw1_CG-CPfg2fb3K6A6U6lvxfhswPt1/s1600-h/halter+and+cupcake.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5312012032849884290" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbjAeTc7ST9sbVImlpXtAuR9QXc8Eep2WyNAbeIu38goWR3Hn7H7f8z3tvU2ZTnsIkfedVIczBiJYkDkj4CQGAAkNLdoR5U4BfOQER8fTOuMnlaGw1_CG-CPfg2fb3K6A6U6lvxfhswPt1/s400/halter+and+cupcake.jpg" border="0" /></a> Another completed project started off with making what looked like packing peanuts to one of my Flickr commenters! These are actually handmade fondant bows. Unfinished bows on the left, finished ones on the right. I had to make 72 of these little bows....<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCVNXjifQQm-PG2-1G85YIuu8t3XKO-VhnWTrCFoPsUOPW3KcPxY8U-SF2o4Ru7URJocdLupPOnK6Kyi2DR8VBPYDB4QKPlIOOdQO_W1CmHddauPmTnQslikz4_8W4BK9t3BZMbLVBwSKU/s1600-h/bows+in+progress.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5312012036982124210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCVNXjifQQm-PG2-1G85YIuu8t3XKO-VhnWTrCFoPsUOPW3KcPxY8U-SF2o4Ru7URJocdLupPOnK6Kyi2DR8VBPYDB4QKPlIOOdQO_W1CmHddauPmTnQslikz4_8W4BK9t3BZMbLVBwSKU/s400/bows+in+progress.jpg" border="0" /></a> To go on top of 72 cupcakes! These were for a Breakfast at Tiffany's-themed bridal shower. Half chocolate and half vanilla, both with cream cheese frosting tinted that signature blue color.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbKchM8UswSFVxMF71dTbe8A-Q3cyQVzgfuf-Y1nbc7b1iz4NsabUxnwRiV8PpI9FlY_wsse_zGqVhbln0xGr_drxpJMn9iCJ22jtoz4qlLJt47q_b34Z7vr_7RAu_PSf-CbtaIsXyfS2p/s1600-h/bat+cupcakes+4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5312012044101735074" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbKchM8UswSFVxMF71dTbe8A-Q3cyQVzgfuf-Y1nbc7b1iz4NsabUxnwRiV8PpI9FlY_wsse_zGqVhbln0xGr_drxpJMn9iCJ22jtoz4qlLJt47q_b34Z7vr_7RAu_PSf-CbtaIsXyfS2p/s400/bat+cupcakes+4.jpg" border="0" /></a> Here is a close up shot of the cupcakes. Apparently they were the hit of the party!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib4MDGEEw2y0NQFNYZDpsr2WzXCJ1KDVAn-Dvju6ISp6EhyUIPYtM6k7Fw6lAUIks3O0CKw5QIJTjbAQk7aoM93ttxwb60qY99XsBwQVPiQAzKSXegMSAdA32eAZDWCWDfOCPP0_WTvzZX/s1600-h/bat+cupcakes+1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5312012051284277810" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib4MDGEEw2y0NQFNYZDpsr2WzXCJ1KDVAn-Dvju6ISp6EhyUIPYtM6k7Fw6lAUIks3O0CKw5QIJTjbAQk7aoM93ttxwb60qY99XsBwQVPiQAzKSXegMSAdA32eAZDWCWDfOCPP0_WTvzZX/s400/bat+cupcakes+1.jpg" border="0" /></a> Now for a few current projects involving fondant and fabric.... This hula print really made me giggle when I saw it so I'm using it to make someone else smile on their birthday. Can't reveal any more than that right now, more to come later.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0BmenTV3cJKLddk3304uftrNzWt039mUmXe_hjyebN7WE0XZJxfJhzGuBNRA0sGZBczfwrKYK8qY5deQuGPRGEcePjgRHC6MifQrRc6rPu4pGjc4gPeXqgBAGhxSyyskVXoQG4QWroOhc/s1600-h/hula+fabric.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5312065914267120866" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0BmenTV3cJKLddk3304uftrNzWt039mUmXe_hjyebN7WE0XZJxfJhzGuBNRA0sGZBczfwrKYK8qY5deQuGPRGEcePjgRHC6MifQrRc6rPu4pGjc4gPeXqgBAGhxSyyskVXoQG4QWroOhc/s400/hula+fabric.jpg" border="0" /></a> And here is a fondant giraffe that I'm working on as I type this for a banana first birthday cake. Assembly will take place tomorrow. Now just trying to decide on a coordinating border color to pipe on the cake. I'm thinking brown? Or is that too blah? <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNKT-dCRw-yI8v3tsRJMaR75eQJIlqZfuQoA9r5atVq-_U9H1bd31BFYc7SDK8_G-Xaah7kGVCZYJG0LxHKM1OZKWN7BAZicVq7e6nXLJEmMyhg5wQ5qWNCLNw4qMJv9uFg3-ahxlAgfj1/s1600-h/giraffe+parts.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5312065915103922082" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNKT-dCRw-yI8v3tsRJMaR75eQJIlqZfuQoA9r5atVq-_U9H1bd31BFYc7SDK8_G-Xaah7kGVCZYJG0LxHKM1OZKWN7BAZicVq7e6nXLJEmMyhg5wQ5qWNCLNw4qMJv9uFg3-ahxlAgfj1/s400/giraffe+parts.jpg" border="0" /></a> Future projects: the <a href="http://shellyfish.wordpress.com/2009/03/04/wip-wednesday-featured-wipster-krys-of-two-vegan-boys-our-march-stitch-along/">WIP stitch along</a>, blankets to donate to the <a href="http://www.snugglesproject.org/">Snuggles project</a>, and an apron!</div>Vegan_Noodlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946796454115691643noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8359137052016446422.post-23375475949842314742009-03-03T09:01:00.001-06:002009-03-03T18:59:13.341-06:00Beeting Hearts and Half-Eaten ChocolatesYes, I know February is over... all the Valentine's Day flowers have shriveled and died, the last few half eaten truffles have been forgotten in the heart-shaped box, and all the card companies have moved on to the next commercialized holiday (I guess that would be Easter?). But I still thought I would blog about an amazing dinner and everyone's favorite on Valentine's, boxes of chocolates.<br /><br />For dinner, I made seitan piccata and stuffed mushrooms, both from the Candle Cafe cookbook along with roasted beets sprinkled with celtic gray sea salt and a dribble of balsamic glace. I had to use my heart cookie cutters on the beets, because honestly, when else can you use them if not on Valentine's day?<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSn5Z5Bpj8tLd9P6_Z1ctfvTaNv9EtB_Sz3MZInlIQqvnGMJ52XdS7ne4JcTQjye26O2bcnkZJ18HwH-F2F3zxIFP-C_mTdFDISTZliYEAnLtrQd_CzfcgHLb7tMYGfJb8Khyid7yoihaf/s1600-h/v-day+dinner.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308730510896925202" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSn5Z5Bpj8tLd9P6_Z1ctfvTaNv9EtB_Sz3MZInlIQqvnGMJ52XdS7ne4JcTQjye26O2bcnkZJ18HwH-F2F3zxIFP-C_mTdFDISTZliYEAnLtrQd_CzfcgHLb7tMYGfJb8Khyid7yoihaf/s400/v-day+dinner.jpg" border="0" /></a> After seeing a post on the always fabulous <a href="http://www.girliegirlarmy.com/">Girlie Girl Army </a>about the delicious treats from <a href="http://www.allisonsgourmet.com/index.html">Allison's Gourmet</a>, I decided to splurge and buy myself a box of truffles (thinking there was no way that John would figure out a way to get vegan chocolates). The box included three types of truffles (hazelnut, mocha, and almond) and three types of caramels (pecan, peanut, and chocolate) Next year I will be ordering a box full of the caramels (pecan was my favorite)! Not that I didn't like the truffles as well, but I had plenty of those to choose from....<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3kk9ZKEaQ-_I3dWbgMCPueXqiLZeoFoQ1X_IWAi0tOuVJ6KgOPJLLXXe9yuGhh3r1SIn77KsJya7iOSspChy2JZbTsTjgY9Cw45TT1TbCzwBKMeBRMzHK4xbyy4LrGTSKk7XjZI2HGI6v/s1600-h/allisons+chocolates+4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308731703981697522" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3kk9ZKEaQ-_I3dWbgMCPueXqiLZeoFoQ1X_IWAi0tOuVJ6KgOPJLLXXe9yuGhh3r1SIn77KsJya7iOSspChy2JZbTsTjgY9Cw45TT1TbCzwBKMeBRMzHK4xbyy4LrGTSKk7XjZI2HGI6v/s400/allisons+chocolates+4.jpg" border="0" /></a> Because to my surprise, John did a little online searching on his own and ordered me a box of truffles from <a href="http://www.rosecitychocolates.com/">Rose City Chocolatier</a>. I was seriously impressed with his effort. This one had all kinds of flavors (hazelnut, vanilla, mandarin, coconut, pistachio, strawberry to name a few). Quality-wise they weren't quite up to the standard of Allison's truffles, but it was kind of fun to eat a box of chocolate the way I used to... take a bite and if it was a less than stellar flavor (the mandarin), I just put the uneaten half back in the box!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnidEXdXfSiUo9n1dHq089DLdwrLhx6AoWu6Qx-x0_kbTE0dDtk1yb7QrwlH7omCTzcRelSRKjDO6NU_F3C6ktCxvJiN5x3JyJiUPTe5QjQqclXHNa8wlR-UDoL1y5cGwcjpoZpKbcAwIj/s1600-h/rose+city+chocolates+1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308730502008566530" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnidEXdXfSiUo9n1dHq089DLdwrLhx6AoWu6Qx-x0_kbTE0dDtk1yb7QrwlH7omCTzcRelSRKjDO6NU_F3C6ktCxvJiN5x3JyJiUPTe5QjQqclXHNa8wlR-UDoL1y5cGwcjpoZpKbcAwIj/s400/rose+city+chocolates+1.jpg" border="0" /></a> And as if I didn't have enough chocolate... I made chocolate covered strawberries drizzled with the last of my white chocolate chip stash. What the strawberries lacked in ripeness, the chocolate more than made up for in sweetness. The strawberries, chocolates, a bottle of champagne, and the <a href="http://www.lushusa.com/shop/products/bath-shower/bath-bombs/sex-bomb">Lush sex bomb bath bomb</a> made for quite a relaxing evening.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhq9A2CnlnTq-I2M6Z5bkrfGhG9MtRbAcAQbS4ffXhdAVD6NhWQEn1ckwSG4_zVLLa5YhEPvPSHTiT-223VoxmgaiqZQYUCS0l5LZSOs6vuir8AsPngCu2fMeFU9ocqcHIWIabzQYRsu2O/s1600-h/chocolate+covered+strawberry.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308730491764075922" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhq9A2CnlnTq-I2M6Z5bkrfGhG9MtRbAcAQbS4ffXhdAVD6NhWQEn1ckwSG4_zVLLa5YhEPvPSHTiT-223VoxmgaiqZQYUCS0l5LZSOs6vuir8AsPngCu2fMeFU9ocqcHIWIabzQYRsu2O/s400/chocolate+covered+strawberry.jpg" border="0" /></a>Vegan_Noodlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946796454115691643noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8359137052016446422.post-14594685642515939022009-02-28T18:37:00.005-06:002009-02-28T19:50:22.720-06:00Daring Bakers Challenge: Flourless Chocolate CakeThis month's Daring Baker's challenge crept up on me like no other. And it failed on me like no other. Since it was so last minute, I went with a simple tofu <a href="http://www.grouprecipes.com/27566/the-vegan-chocoholics-flourless-torte.html">variation</a> of a flourless chocolate cake recipe. Wish I had beans to make <a href="http://bittersweetblog.wordpress.com/2008/12/30/a-matter-of-luck/">Hannah's version</a>. It looked alright coming out of the oven....<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgumIAjOEW7S2atNfv-YGHRGrwMDD-0MqLv7BwDpJzTSyawEsQvcnvsPZK9EAu39lDeJpR3ssdFZYrGx3zHtoWwcfnRgrenllQf8oYzkaEFqW1AKSjUQFk06HJQBvAduBA_Lph2vE2ID50t/s1600-h/flourless+chocolate+cake+1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308029086989253730" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgumIAjOEW7S2atNfv-YGHRGrwMDD-0MqLv7BwDpJzTSyawEsQvcnvsPZK9EAu39lDeJpR3ssdFZYrGx3zHtoWwcfnRgrenllQf8oYzkaEFqW1AKSjUQFk06HJQBvAduBA_Lph2vE2ID50t/s400/flourless+chocolate+cake+1.jpg" border="0" /></a> But once it was de-panned... it turned into a mushy mess, not cakey at all! At least the vegan vanilla <a href="http://www.mimiccreme.com/">mimicreme</a> ice cream made it somewhat edible. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifpGffnXzfGhpQO48xpFVhbbzWJL2Usz-y3RTAvykEtz4TLDO7T1V_dFLhc0fAoAUzc08SSjvkX1eG86T7_8BOkXfZJuOd5CAPRFCefBoLZzRVXB6Lbi4zwV76b3FtqcjaUHDSq7BkvgO6/s1600-h/flourless+chocolate+cake+2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5308029084059177570" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifpGffnXzfGhpQO48xpFVhbbzWJL2Usz-y3RTAvykEtz4TLDO7T1V_dFLhc0fAoAUzc08SSjvkX1eG86T7_8BOkXfZJuOd5CAPRFCefBoLZzRVXB6Lbi4zwV76b3FtqcjaUHDSq7BkvgO6/s400/flourless+chocolate+cake+2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />The February 2009 challenge is hosted by Wendy of WMPE's blog and Dharm of Dad ~ Baker & Chef.We have chosen a Chocolate Valentino cake by Chef Wan; a Vanilla Ice Cream recipe from Dharm and a Vanilla Ice Cream recipe from Wendy as the challenge.<br /><br />I promise to post for real tomorrow, and catch up on blogs! I'm sooooo behind....Vegan_Noodlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946796454115691643noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8359137052016446422.post-15141402391348397772009-02-16T17:56:00.004-06:002009-02-16T18:08:51.653-06:00Giveaway Winner!I had a blast reading about all of your favorite shoes! I wish you could all be winners, but the random number generator spit out lucky number.... 79.<br /><br /><strong>The winner is Nora from </strong><a href="http://eleanordashwood.blogspot.com/"><strong>My Cup of Tea</strong></a><strong>!</strong> Her favorite shoes were....<br /><br />"... these sparkly red mary janes i had when i was 5 and i would walk up to strangers and say, "do you want to see my pretty red shoes?!"<br /><br />What a coincidence that her response totally made me remember the Mary Janes that I never wanted to take off in third grade. Send me an email Nora with your first and last name and I will have Onlineshoes contact you about your prize. Thanks to <a href="http://www.onlineshoes.com/">Onlineshoes </a>for letting me host this giveaway!Vegan_Noodlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946796454115691643noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8359137052016446422.post-55525437226063455662009-02-11T18:12:00.003-06:002009-02-11T18:56:12.227-06:00Pillow of LoveDon't forget to enter for the $100 giveaway to Onlineshoes by Feb. 16th! <a href="http://walkingtheveganline.blogspot.com/2009/02/stomping-grounds-cake-and-contest.html">See this post</a>. <br /><br />Time for another <a href="http://shellyfish.wordpress.com/wip-wednesday/">Work In Progress</a> update.... I finished my love bear pillow for the <a href="http://shellyfish.wordpress.com/2009/01/21/wip-wednesday-lets-have-a-valentines-day-stitch-along-basic-embroidery-tutorial-recycled-valentines-day/">Valentine's Day Stitch-Along</a>. I was amazed at how fast the whole thing came together. Now I want to make room full of pillows! <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1mruJrhmDinjq6lUkcavCRFTtBPjh9wDIXOfjXvGebiNAR1o96WWKj9nwxIfiLqNC1G03Nr3FjLFpDSsZEi6kIF1xwlFapwtASa1_6AOLlvelMIccHiEOTRJ1G0Ok2HNl8tg8h416nM40/s1600-h/lovebear+mosaic.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301697812678619490" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 135px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1mruJrhmDinjq6lUkcavCRFTtBPjh9wDIXOfjXvGebiNAR1o96WWKj9nwxIfiLqNC1G03Nr3FjLFpDSsZEi6kIF1xwlFapwtASa1_6AOLlvelMIccHiEOTRJ1G0Ok2HNl8tg8h416nM40/s400/lovebear+mosaic.jpg" border="0" /></a> Way back in December, I took a Valentine card making class with my mom and sister. I didn't exactly follow the instructions on all of the cards (like my heart skull and crossbones?), but I had fun with stamps and hole punches and glitter. After all that hard work, it's kinda hard to part with them!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2tezodTJLePBqWK70XikSiRWA-ykQsZAMufHMuqbWVBeA5Znt9aVKuSuDllxcQOSZHAzTzM4EHirKA4JMkil6W8CK-ceaRLwuBqVMziTvp9QWIVCmt2u3wEnNILD8R0Hp9zGsb1AH-cnl/s1600-h/valentines+cards.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301698280538458914" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2tezodTJLePBqWK70XikSiRWA-ykQsZAMufHMuqbWVBeA5Znt9aVKuSuDllxcQOSZHAzTzM4EHirKA4JMkil6W8CK-ceaRLwuBqVMziTvp9QWIVCmt2u3wEnNILD8R0Hp9zGsb1AH-cnl/s400/valentines+cards.jpg" border="0" /></a> Last night I finished the first of two nappy bags. Just in the nick of time too; my friend is due on Valentine's day! I really like the dragonfly pattern. I even modified the cell phone pocket to fit the my girlfriend's super cool iPhone that I wish I had. This bag is huge and has tons of space to stash all sorts of fun baby things... diapers, wipes, binkies. Crazy fun. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifVJ-KY5BIiub_dy21dPu2GDEtbtlBtbYIIirkkYa5DX5_MuuCvaRdIfxoFlmhBtl8HTSA4Zw4OAnbYYfc4cwbomtm5mQ0Iumal3wITpZ2F8n6mV91i2fyvv20fBbAY0WCIxxhazOg6uSO/s1600-h/nappy+bag.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301697814575139762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifVJ-KY5BIiub_dy21dPu2GDEtbtlBtbYIIirkkYa5DX5_MuuCvaRdIfxoFlmhBtl8HTSA4Zw4OAnbYYfc4cwbomtm5mQ0Iumal3wITpZ2F8n6mV91i2fyvv20fBbAY0WCIxxhazOg6uSO/s400/nappy+bag.jpg" border="0" /></a> Tomorrow night I start another 3 week sewing class and I ordered my fabric for the project online at <a href="http://reprodepot.stores.yahoo.net/index.html">reprodepot</a>. It's such a fun, whimsical print. I'll reveal what we're making when I'm done in a few weeks... (hint: it will be perfect for all the warm weather that's headed our way in the coming months)<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Tr9_kCJDcJmmD-O2VEgZodSxsTumNe-HREgn99q7d0IZ1EISWqmhBF_tZlHKbkuzZZ6470PQQOsLiqcleFTXqfxEbCfqV8LCnwZObxVHro7q8EAf94eCDNBA6X3eOKNldPIKsUOW8cyY/s1600-h/mobile+fabric.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5301697815906016610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Tr9_kCJDcJmmD-O2VEgZodSxsTumNe-HREgn99q7d0IZ1EISWqmhBF_tZlHKbkuzZZ6470PQQOsLiqcleFTXqfxEbCfqV8LCnwZObxVHro7q8EAf94eCDNBA6X3eOKNldPIKsUOW8cyY/s400/mobile+fabric.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><em>This post is a part of Work-In-Progress (W.I.P.) Wednesdays where I share some of my projects that serve as a creative outlet for my mostly left-brained mind. I may be posting the results of finished projects, actual W.I.Ps, or projects that are on my to-do list. Be sure to <a href="http://shellyfish.wordpress.com/wip-wednesday/">check out others </a>that are posting their projects as well!</em>Vegan_Noodlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946796454115691643noreply@blogger.com28tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8359137052016446422.post-80967221070655824432009-02-09T16:10:00.006-06:002009-02-10T11:00:12.829-06:00Stomping Grounds Cake and a ContestFirst things first. The cake. I was asked to make the birthday cake for one very cool vegan kid celebrating his fifth birthday. The party was held at the "Stomping Grounds" playland, so to continue the "stomping" theme, a dinosaur cake was in order. I know my brontosaurus and his footprints aren't exactly anatomically correct, but at least they are cute. The volcano was apparently the hit of the party when the birthday boy was blowing out his candles.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXiMiDGsl1ItPRjrZq35tvRxi3DLTYkTuiazb6btT7aP_fAO4CUTZKNI1ftUmIP5dWHQi4YCYNnjJwRsmsSxfmuoBEo8HL833KnWKjKYT-ps6xwYwNYZlSAuy2f-Gb4tLSFprliW5zk6n3/s1600-h/dino+birthday+cake.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300923749911751938" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXiMiDGsl1ItPRjrZq35tvRxi3DLTYkTuiazb6btT7aP_fAO4CUTZKNI1ftUmIP5dWHQi4YCYNnjJwRsmsSxfmuoBEo8HL833KnWKjKYT-ps6xwYwNYZlSAuy2f-Gb4tLSFprliW5zk6n3/s400/dino+birthday+cake.jpg" border="0" /></a>Even though this was the largest cake I've ever made (11'x15'), I was nervous that it wouldn't be enough for a crowd of hungry toddlers (is 5 a toddler? I don't know these things) so I also whipped up a batch of carrot cake cupcakes. These were also stomped, I mean stamped, with a dinosaur footprint made of fondant.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5qnKuY6rGrGJ_9ryn5LGxtODf-WHwLK6DxTdlt5dsUDgtIUiBYufbH9CyeG7pJEw4DhVBz0CinpOtJi9Gv26TQ0BcstKC7LOL-EgZqUs-PA5-8Ip8e7fbmIYuQWckunD2pSwZb_KUIGZ0/s1600-h/dino+footprint+cupcakes.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5300923742523699602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5qnKuY6rGrGJ_9ryn5LGxtODf-WHwLK6DxTdlt5dsUDgtIUiBYufbH9CyeG7pJEw4DhVBz0CinpOtJi9Gv26TQ0BcstKC7LOL-EgZqUs-PA5-8Ip8e7fbmIYuQWckunD2pSwZb_KUIGZ0/s400/dino+footprint+cupcakes.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />And now, the contest and some stomping of your own (which has nothing to do with cake). <a href="http://www.onlineshoes.com/">Onlineshoes</a> has asked me to host a giveaway for a<strong><em><span style="color:#ffcc00;"> $100 gift certificate</span></em></strong> to their store, which carries plenty of vegan friendly shoes including the super comfortable <a href="http://www.onlineshoes.com/landing.asp?type=brand&brandid=84">Earth brand shoes</a>. The rules are simple. Just leave a comment describing your favorite pair of shoes that you have ever owned (mine are the shoes on my feet right now, forest green vegan flats). On February 16th at noon (CST) I will randomly select a winner, so be sure to check back and see if you've won! The contest is only open to those who currently reside in the US. Now stomp to it!<br /><br />And you can triple your chances of winning if you head over to The <a href="http://theurbanhousewife.blogspot.com/">Urban Housewife's blog</a> and <a href="http://awesomeveganrad.blogspot.com/">Awesome.Vegan.Rad </a>, where they are both running the same giveaway!Vegan_Noodlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946796454115691643noreply@blogger.com100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8359137052016446422.post-53721979203078134142009-01-29T11:00:00.003-06:002009-01-29T13:50:48.342-06:00Daring Bakers Challenge: Tuile Cookies<div align="center"><em>Tuiles so light so crisp</em></div><div align="center"><em>being a <a href="http://daringbakersblogroll.blogspot.com/">daring baker</a></em></div><div align="center"><em>you lifted my heart</em></div><p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ2qGjLI8v8TdYGmgaM6OxoNq5MFm-q1h7FiovY4XzY9xeBNuEX0yh3YcPxc6Jh6H3c_M2PzqfQd2AkPqQjIlGHaeLwzp2hQQ_vhqwRrn3o59NXgzAMuoLMQ4Hl9XxPE9HwupeqE5PEWW4/s1600-h/tuille+cookies+4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296716223644111714" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ2qGjLI8v8TdYGmgaM6OxoNq5MFm-q1h7FiovY4XzY9xeBNuEX0yh3YcPxc6Jh6H3c_M2PzqfQd2AkPqQjIlGHaeLwzp2hQQ_vhqwRrn3o59NXgzAMuoLMQ4Hl9XxPE9HwupeqE5PEWW4/s400/tuille+cookies+4.jpg" border="0" /></a><em>No reinventing<br /></em><a href="http://veganyumyum.com/2008/04/tuile-cookies/"><em>Yum yum recipe</em></a><em> and tools<br />I cut out my heart</em><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ul_gtTHIBOir58gK4nMWVt-UQj0Dl1ky-eu4e3MY8UncG5d2VmEvwXosq0xVk6XJhL-LBW9Ua9UuluQ3TnTYxJ_fxQqQmWVoH-oA-zer9hH8PNnrlfYqa_QOlFzPhz5J8Q0HYOVkYeeE/s1600-h/tuille+cookies+5.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296715665353207634" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ul_gtTHIBOir58gK4nMWVt-UQj0Dl1ky-eu4e3MY8UncG5d2VmEvwXosq0xVk6XJhL-LBW9Ua9UuluQ3TnTYxJ_fxQqQmWVoH-oA-zer9hH8PNnrlfYqa_QOlFzPhz5J8Q0HYOVkYeeE/s400/tuille+cookies+5.jpg" border="0" /></a><em>Patience played its part<br />one broken for one intact<br />heart flutters each drop<br /></em><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMHxHaqOoW-vFJTO9L0Oz2LvUu-4YlM_xd7wOiglTfTYvakErnRl20me87Bm44VlifuMg9cXiZpznQxKQ60uCMhmHIN3hCIPy-aDanK8HVZmmFpSlCNH1JBMJzwhcM-yRDMBve9R6FgI-u/s1600-h/tuille+cookies+3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296715656188830626" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMHxHaqOoW-vFJTO9L0Oz2LvUu-4YlM_xd7wOiglTfTYvakErnRl20me87Bm44VlifuMg9cXiZpznQxKQ60uCMhmHIN3hCIPy-aDanK8HVZmmFpSlCNH1JBMJzwhcM-yRDMBve9R6FgI-u/s400/tuille+cookies+3.jpg" border="0" /></a><em>Whipped a </em><a href="http://www.francostigan.com/"><em>mango mousse</em></a><em><br />into shape you were molded<br />now i heart agar</em><br /><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296715647968140962" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0bQ6LvwVaTO0FwSg-bfcNtqKFqastblrglUAY00mcKZ-MI9Zd2uKWfZ58Gg_VPi9D6dL-U0_9eq1xGLqRoByCZ2-2sV5HZG-UUPsZj1NO_Vx4CDVS2PYFQGo4QnJ1FsZi6PYIspP1Q2tn/s400/tuille+cookies+2.jpg" border="0" /> </p><p align="center"><em>Topped with raspberries<br />endless possibilites<br />a heart shape five ways</em> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmi1vK7NFErQkQznUoMuIbKw4qNHhLsS1VaSVqKlCvfguQNCM47JJj08jn0-DJZ-A4SLOhnnmJfC_p__hSORxlJzz2IK063JqYob_H_D5mgN57Y0Ber4U36pVRp_a_a6-yi4flcfG_29Wn/s1600-h/tuille+cookies+1.jpg"></p><p align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296715637759222082" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmi1vK7NFErQkQznUoMuIbKw4qNHhLsS1VaSVqKlCvfguQNCM47JJj08jn0-DJZ-A4SLOhnnmJfC_p__hSORxlJzz2IK063JqYob_H_D5mgN57Y0Ber4U36pVRp_a_a6-yi4flcfG_29Wn/s400/tuille+cookies+1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><em>Hope you understood<br />my haiku lyric journey<br />tuile around my heart</em><br /><br />This month's challenge is brought to us by Karen of <a href="http://www.bakemyday.blogspot.com/">Bake My Day </a>and Zorra of <a href="http://kochtopf.twoday.net/">1x umruehren bitte aka Kochtopf</a>. They have chosen Tuiles from The Chocolate Book by Angélique Schmeink and Nougatine and Chocolate Tuiles from Michel Roux.<br /></p>Vegan_Noodlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946796454115691643noreply@blogger.com40tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8359137052016446422.post-58918693749927613812009-01-28T10:26:00.001-06:002009-01-28T10:28:29.819-06:00Inspired by ApplesIt is a happy day when the first US grown apples arrive in the produce section. Apples are one of my favorite staple foods during the cooler months, whether serving as a snack with peanut butter, in a salad with greens and walnuts, shredded in a slaw with carrots and lemon juice, or baked with an oat & pecan topping with vanilla soy ice cream in an apple crisp (as shown below). My favorite variety of apple? I'm partial to Fujis, but also love the honeycrisps and pink ladies.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyIdKrobqFE9aB-lDHl8-0Gz88wkp2soBRpVTMoFza7rHJbKRH3NV8Luh0pog6O0nP4LNpoKA1b8w5OJxqFtbQXUSdtP6QSTyP2SFelY_U8uVRvNBkxd-ATOec_kDnZRIuwjdtypv3eoxs/s1600-h/apple+crisp.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296135278922392610" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyIdKrobqFE9aB-lDHl8-0Gz88wkp2soBRpVTMoFza7rHJbKRH3NV8Luh0pog6O0nP4LNpoKA1b8w5OJxqFtbQXUSdtP6QSTyP2SFelY_U8uVRvNBkxd-ATOec_kDnZRIuwjdtypv3eoxs/s400/apple+crisp.jpg" border="0" /></a>Not only will this fiber-rich fruit help keep the doctor away, but it can also serve as inspiration for more creative outlets. I chose this bright, cheerful apple print fabric to use as a lining for the <a href="http://www.amybutlerdesign.com/products/patterns_display.php?id=30">Frenchy Bag</a> that I made at a recent <a href="http://www.sewcraftyhouston.com/">Sew Crafty</a> class. Now it makes me hungry everytime I look inside my bag!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheKDqjHZut21zuHFultGHTAPtxagV4Lx8dwCXDhsoa5_ogxZQpeXVE-h4974M29wdq4QEDyR315L7wzeACtteE5bqtva51kjekZCaZo7jae2iCIyMzKppvAp94iKP4EGCsuDioewAvPGsA/s1600-h/frenchy+bag+inside+2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296135272562024914" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheKDqjHZut21zuHFultGHTAPtxagV4Lx8dwCXDhsoa5_ogxZQpeXVE-h4974M29wdq4QEDyR315L7wzeACtteE5bqtva51kjekZCaZo7jae2iCIyMzKppvAp94iKP4EGCsuDioewAvPGsA/s400/frenchy+bag+inside+2.jpg" border="0" /></a>The outside of the bag turned out cute as well. It's the perfect size to stash just about everything in, even a couple of apples!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6rppbLnu7rC_DPxyeGKYPta9lUUlEt16EXRI-VekoO053tSQrZ7TZZWeVdZIrZiQ9DavXbWOFo-uHDrKmVox2csGlPm4bCtVt6YVXXKGeSZKJpOYju9m_m2lctfteyAIo4xWG4oHT5J1u/s1600-h/frenchy+bag.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296135271124479554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6rppbLnu7rC_DPxyeGKYPta9lUUlEt16EXRI-VekoO053tSQrZ7TZZWeVdZIrZiQ9DavXbWOFo-uHDrKmVox2csGlPm4bCtVt6YVXXKGeSZKJpOYju9m_m2lctfteyAIo4xWG4oHT5J1u/s400/frenchy+bag.jpg" border="0" /></a> The <a href="http://shellyfish.wordpress.com/2009/01/21/wip-wednesday-lets-have-a-valentines-day-stitch-along-basic-embroidery-tutorial-recycled-valentines-day/">W.I.P stitch along</a> was just the push I needed to start my first embroidery project! And with such minimal supplies, it's easy to get started. I picked up some organic cotton twill, embroidery floss (in pink, purple, brown, and green), a hoop, and a needle and that's it! I finished up embroidering the love bear last night and now just need to decide what to do with this cute little guy.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAAd9AOo4wxGMaW2lv7o1XBMqjCJVnzrd63T5ji0pHZxoIm_PFQhuO_zg242iBe001071S2hcEJ1ggfrXx8519-kdhMSw5if0XefLJInPCmBWSD_l8WoINeClGA4QYUvZ9T8sGi5iXGohg/s1600-h/WIP+love+bear+progress+1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296135271004895906" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAAd9AOo4wxGMaW2lv7o1XBMqjCJVnzrd63T5ji0pHZxoIm_PFQhuO_zg242iBe001071S2hcEJ1ggfrXx8519-kdhMSw5if0XefLJInPCmBWSD_l8WoINeClGA4QYUvZ9T8sGi5iXGohg/s400/WIP+love+bear+progress+1.jpg" border="0" /></a> No shortage of projects in my queue. This weekend I went fabric shopping with two of my prego girlfriends (yes, I have entered that stage in life where everyone I know is pregnant) so they could pick out what they wanted for the <a href="http://www.amybutlerdesign.com/products/patterns_display.php?id=16">nappy bags </a>that I'm going to make them. I am currently in the cutting fabric stage (aka my least favorite part) for the first one which has a fast approaching due date!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6MSWS3xdRTwvg2JHuxm_pi5gfGaJmXZ2AosuVT76gTjpBAKvBHwvlBgcJ-eLrbI8Z1LYgUblZMOcK_z0dTMNlKj13LL3ZxF4OdJ1R-9u1y99nar9FAQ5CEyQ80qvAYiW5DL0oWQXd0hcO/s1600-h/nappy+bag+fabric.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296135271724022786" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6MSWS3xdRTwvg2JHuxm_pi5gfGaJmXZ2AosuVT76gTjpBAKvBHwvlBgcJ-eLrbI8Z1LYgUblZMOcK_z0dTMNlKj13LL3ZxF4OdJ1R-9u1y99nar9FAQ5CEyQ80qvAYiW5DL0oWQXd0hcO/s400/nappy+bag+fabric.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><em>This post is a part of Work-In-Progress (W.I.P.) Wednesdays where I share some of my projects that serve as a creative outlet for my mostly left-brained mind. I may be posting the results of finished projects, actual W.I.Ps, or projects that are on my to-do list. Be sure to <a href="http://shellyfish.wordpress.com/wip-wednesday/">check out others </a>that are posting their projects as well. Thanks to Shellyfish for inspiring us all! </em>Vegan_Noodlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946796454115691643noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8359137052016446422.post-89919072012537996482009-01-26T14:21:00.001-06:002009-01-26T14:59:47.656-06:00Dust Off the Shelf - Uncheese, Kitch, & MaximusI mentioned a few posts back that I have been struggling somewhat to find cooking inspiration. Reviewing many of my recent posts, it may appear to my readers that all I eat are cupcakes and treats! While I do tend to indulge in something sweet once a day, the bulk of my daily food intake is actually quite healthy. All I had to do to find a little inspiration (in addition to your suggestions... thanks!), was dust off my cookbook shelf and rediscover all the recipes I already have at my fingertips! So, I'm going to be doing a series of "Dusting Off the Shelf" where every few weeks I'll make a recipe from 3-4 predetermined cookbooks, with particular attention being given to those I use less or that have been a new addition to my ever-growing and hopefully now less dusty shelf.<br /><br />First up: The Ultimate Uncheese Cookbook, Skinny Bitch in the Kitch, and Gastronomus Maximus.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhuxzXWhcF2KQkHH6pPvRrXOYEoijfpj7K6P5VkARHDgAkZuISafbrUe1TMrh7TdxgeCLqDVXoYEz_iuuvYBiF-LokES_TRPEYGXsiKH75rd9GgYAqZntliXjLPKijSGsO9hhA5cI-DA8Y/s1600-h/cookbook+challenge+1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295067284590149218" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhuxzXWhcF2KQkHH6pPvRrXOYEoijfpj7K6P5VkARHDgAkZuISafbrUe1TMrh7TdxgeCLqDVXoYEz_iuuvYBiF-LokES_TRPEYGXsiKH75rd9GgYAqZntliXjLPKijSGsO9hhA5cI-DA8Y/s400/cookbook+challenge+1.jpg" border="0" /></a> The Ultimate Uncheese Cookbook is one of those books on my shelf that I have yet to make a single thing from.. embarassing I know! I chose to try the Broccoli and Rice Casserole since it's a dish that I recall fondly from my childhood. This version was super simple to prepare and required minimal ingredients. If you are a fan of noochy rice, this one is for you. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNymNZ00lvDEZiCjuogCTmk28LpgSw0KaCTbwfzBkzF3yq9AwkAamxv3p72O4AJwnoqQn1on1TU6F2vJG_rsw40X6WVqorgbTQdpr4DRh_jxol-d-3ZR4CyWPvbkkQUas9RDJ2MWVEL7nZ/s1600-h/broccoli+rice+casserole.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295066531392142210" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNymNZ00lvDEZiCjuogCTmk28LpgSw0KaCTbwfzBkzF3yq9AwkAamxv3p72O4AJwnoqQn1on1TU6F2vJG_rsw40X6WVqorgbTQdpr4DRh_jxol-d-3ZR4CyWPvbkkQUas9RDJ2MWVEL7nZ/s400/broccoli+rice+casserole.jpg" border="0" /></a> I was one of the lucky recipients of <a href="http://veganeatsandtreats.blogspot.com/2009/01/new-year-gifties.html">Amey's holiday zine</a>, full of wonderful recipes and adorable drawings. This recipe for Quinoa with Brussel Sprouts and Tempeh is originally from Fresh Food Fast. I used a mixture of red and regular quinoa to add some color to this healthful dish. (and shhhh... I also made a cookie recipe she put in the zine as well ;-)<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV73R3CMLLagV25LTzPwSkarnyVA7jmCtu5J3z8QR-CnrZ2gcUZdJJOzVlJhjB2aDf1x42LvoZTP6WdyXZO1lwKZRSy7wHrZM8De4dqI2lOQNEwOoZUhBEolG95udF6gET5NfvGA_HLJmR/s1600-h/tempeh+quinoa+and+brussels.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295066532256749666" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV73R3CMLLagV25LTzPwSkarnyVA7jmCtu5J3z8QR-CnrZ2gcUZdJJOzVlJhjB2aDf1x42LvoZTP6WdyXZO1lwKZRSy7wHrZM8De4dqI2lOQNEwOoZUhBEolG95udF6gET5NfvGA_HLJmR/s400/tempeh+quinoa+and+brussels.jpg" border="0" /></a>The arrival of my Skinny Bitch Total Body Workout video reminded me to revisit Skinny Bitch in the Kitch. I am a big fan of their "Down Home Cookin" section (e.g. the meatloaf), so I took a chance on the Sloppy Joe recipe. My mom calls these "yummies" but I always called them "yuckies". Maybe I just needed to try the vegan version, because now I agree with my mom. Oh, and I made my own buns using <a href="http://vegandad.blogspot.com/2008/06/hamburger-buns.html">Vegan Dad's recipe</a>.... not sure if I have the patience to wait 5 hours for buns ever again, but they sure were good. <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHzrD9VWA0-eUXh_SnEk0f9rHRFhLt7I0gcXfurt52ZVXGgx-QeiARHnaIoKF15S0ifP3xUQ8PqtFDdUIgqgqo7Os3Boa7cDdLzdM1VsRA_Jw5_VYP57pYURMw2cUn8OMpXvKA_lyEDAWN/s1600-h/sloppy+joes+with+homemade+buns.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295066525187676258" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHzrD9VWA0-eUXh_SnEk0f9rHRFhLt7I0gcXfurt52ZVXGgx-QeiARHnaIoKF15S0ifP3xUQ8PqtFDdUIgqgqo7Os3Boa7cDdLzdM1VsRA_Jw5_VYP57pYURMw2cUn8OMpXvKA_lyEDAWN/s400/sloppy+joes+with+homemade+buns.jpg" border="0" /></a> To accompany the Sloppy Joes, I also made potato salad, yet another Southern dish that I've been avoiding all of my life. And once again proving that vegan versions are far superior... I couldn't get enough of this stuff. The veganaise, the sweet pickle relish, the dill, mmm mmm! Bring on summer picnicing season (not so far off here in Houston) because I'm ready with my potluck dish to share!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX-qoitSpoV8w3ERbZBTq0xTzeXOLRG_FOnbCWrbJgD2ofZF6vFusHev3sHJfugoJNuuuBep97h9V8xdSKgCKyeOC6NYc2Wa1YNcGoSLVj9DtLWo74BW6PXzoyA-SMgKv6QLT172MJ7OSF/s1600-h/potato+salad.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295066522187209986" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX-qoitSpoV8w3ERbZBTq0xTzeXOLRG_FOnbCWrbJgD2ofZF6vFusHev3sHJfugoJNuuuBep97h9V8xdSKgCKyeOC6NYc2Wa1YNcGoSLVj9DtLWo74BW6PXzoyA-SMgKv6QLT172MJ7OSF/s400/potato+salad.jpg" border="0" /></a>And even though it wasn't included in last week's assigned cookbooks, here's a bonus dessert from My Sweet Vegan, the triple threat chocolate cheesecake. It pleased a table full of omnivores with it's rich, chocolatey, creamy layers.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjYHW1uvu5c9yx2p8uO_ABk2kKe5Do_zj3y-tZtyMVh5bHYkUViFYi0IVZC-YoE7SpaEe2ZIqbgvbsOyy_lII0p32GuifzohPQlg9GyGBdVcYTL_LsRJ3o_ESkB6bklHsZSzK2KvzR8THs/s1600-h/triple+threat+chocolate+cheesecake.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295066521868555330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjYHW1uvu5c9yx2p8uO_ABk2kKe5Do_zj3y-tZtyMVh5bHYkUViFYi0IVZC-YoE7SpaEe2ZIqbgvbsOyy_lII0p32GuifzohPQlg9GyGBdVcYTL_LsRJ3o_ESkB6bklHsZSzK2KvzR8THs/s400/triple+threat+chocolate+cheesecake.jpg" border="0" /></a>Vegan_Noodlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946796454115691643noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8359137052016446422.post-25529589565323765332009-01-21T08:53:00.002-06:002009-01-21T10:23:19.375-06:00Try Walking in My ShoesConfession: I used to be a shopaholic when it came to shoes. I loved them all... rugged hiking boots, dainty ballet flats, trusty running shoes, funky wedges, and even those killer spiky heels. After going vegan I realized that most of the shoes in my growing collection were born of cruelty so I slowly began to purge my closet and took them to Goodwill. I kept a few pairs that I really loved, figuring it seemed logical to wear them out before getting rid of them. But I found myself not wanting to put those on either, and they eventually got the boot. So you can only imagine my excitement when a representative from <a href="http://www.gaiam.com/">Gaiam</a> contacted me asking if I would like to review a pair of their vegan shoes! Let's take a walk in my new <a href="http://www.gaiam.com/product/apparel/footwear/casual-shoes/j-41--153-+yoga+slide.do">J41 Yoga Slide shoes (which are on sale right now!) </a>and I'll let you know what I think...<br /><br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3398/3214715470_558dff276f.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 375px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3398/3214715470_558dff276f.jpg" border="0" /></a> These slip on shoes are constructed with a cute and colorful corduroy upper and recycled rubber soles . The treads are tough enough to take you on a short rocky hiking trail but still comfy enough for walking to your neighborhood coffee shop. I have an <a href="http://walkingtheveganline.blogspot.com/2007/08/game-day.html">older style </a>of this shoe (which I still love), and I'm happy to report that they have added more cushioning to the insole, allowing for endless hours of roaming through the city in search of vegan treats. The handy velcro closures allows a snug fit for both narrow and wider feet, but you still have the luxury of being able to slip these shoes on and go!<br /><br />I have worn my J41s both with and without socks (got a tiny blister the first time I wore no socks, but after that no problem), with jeans and with skirts, to the grocery store and to work and all without missing a step. Speaking of missing steps, if you are a bit of a clutz (like me), the super reinforced rubber will keep your toes safe from whatever you smash them into. Plus, it's super cool that they have the word "vegan" written on the inside.. just in case your friends have any doubt.<br /><br />Overall I would rate these shoes as excellent and they are key player in my line up of everyday shoes. My only suggestion is they should add more color combinations so I can get another pair!<br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3089/3213867493_a3ca24d669.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 375px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3089/3213867493_a3ca24d669.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />In a world that is full of yucky leather shoes, it's nice to know that our options are growing everyday with stylish, eco-conscious, well-built vegan shoes that with every step we take, we are making the world a more compassionate place. Thanks Gaiam for the shoes... I love them!<br /><br />** My only compensation for this review was a free pair of shoes. Sweet!<br />** In other shoe-related news in my life... I bought John a pair of his <a href="http://www.mooshoes.com/invoice_variant.cgi?rm=edit&product_id=66848">first vegan work shoes </a>for Christmas this year and he loves them!! He says they are not only more comfortable than his other work shoes, but they also make his feet sweat less. Bonus!Vegan_Noodlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946796454115691643noreply@blogger.com39tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8359137052016446422.post-21822735736624061682009-01-14T08:16:00.001-06:002009-01-14T10:10:24.787-06:00Bienvenue dans la jungle, bébé!Two of my closest friends will be welcoming a baby girl into this crazy jungle of a world in just about a month, so this past weekend I cohosted a co-ed baby shower in their honor. The mom-to-be's only request (besides minimizing the pink) was that I make a cake for the occasion. All that pressure! So I really didn't want to disappoint...<br /><br /><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0irdtuOiAybhPjUAmSyzV6WvsVy3ePBN4ShSf2MNQ9JcXcM-vzGt4V1tZ-27eRCNRq5nvWrTjR9CpaJX8Yms03keNC0jmZsG0VICwxgzBM-c_xgQkefwM77IDgSBNEIWx8WxqD916C_h5/s1600-h/cake.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291155796393247650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0irdtuOiAybhPjUAmSyzV6WvsVy3ePBN4ShSf2MNQ9JcXcM-vzGt4V1tZ-27eRCNRq5nvWrTjR9CpaJX8Yms03keNC0jmZsG0VICwxgzBM-c_xgQkefwM77IDgSBNEIWx8WxqD916C_h5/s400/cake.jpg" border="0" /></a> For this jungle-themed cake I made the raspberry blackout cake from VWAV and added fresh raspberries to the ganache layer in the middle. After frosting it with the thick chocolate ganache, I rolled out white fondant to cover the cake. The zebra stripes were cut freehand from black rolled fondant and I piped a pink buttercream border. But the funnest part of making this cake had to be molding the elephant topper from fondant by hand! It turned out so cute! I have a feeling I will be making more fondant figures in the future...<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSzAmKGOMRs4rZ-5qEx763ZuhRRXJAA0yeFLuWnD-BOeVlGF4MskPi9QloIMQT0YdPAfoB-PYAaScA6UNhgnc393fpW5oNTCN90wD3S4Q3scFHmL52H-waxvcP77xMy845Xy6S1217zXdf/s1600-h/zebra+cake+mosaic.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290880371428394882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 202px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSzAmKGOMRs4rZ-5qEx763ZuhRRXJAA0yeFLuWnD-BOeVlGF4MskPi9QloIMQT0YdPAfoB-PYAaScA6UNhgnc393fpW5oNTCN90wD3S4Q3scFHmL52H-waxvcP77xMy845Xy6S1217zXdf/s400/zebra+cake+mosaic.jpg" border="0" /></a> And just in case the cake went fast (which it did, once I could bring myself to cut into it), I also made a dozen lemon macadamia white chocolate chip cupcakes (VCTOTW) in zebra striped cupcake liners with a piped buttercream swirl, a pink fondant flower, and placed in these adorable cupcake cuppies from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5864125">Etsy</a>.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikY7kvlFqmT_azrwG0gbbMgFGS2nOWjcMkyDOtF13yze0WiDOBYCuGVdEOVDx3z2JC2rUcinb2fHrXvdll8-C2MRZx985s9p9cP0pm1_6Jb6EJ-ogC_N9mAWrLsQE51HfIu5YDQPi5bM0C/s1600-h/cupcake+animals.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291161901461007602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikY7kvlFqmT_azrwG0gbbMgFGS2nOWjcMkyDOtF13yze0WiDOBYCuGVdEOVDx3z2JC2rUcinb2fHrXvdll8-C2MRZx985s9p9cP0pm1_6Jb6EJ-ogC_N9mAWrLsQE51HfIu5YDQPi5bM0C/s400/cupcake+animals.jpg" border="0" /></a>I wanted to give the expectant parents a few more personalized gifts than just what was on their registry. So I got out my dressmaking shears, some pretty fabric, and 6 plain, white, organic cloth diapers and turned them into a bib and four colorful burp cloths using tutorials from <a href="http://chickpeastudio.typepad.com/">Chickpea Sewing Studio</a>. I thought the Eiffel tower bib was especially appropriate since the baby daddy is French and they are expecting a little girl. These projects were both so easy!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfDNsxCVCeL50q9zZSGoFooxRxsqkxDZRZhzC46W1oq-LcFj-OGzzCUCU-HIRm-u4HbD-nuUVM1sp5PF6hD5UlPpxoV1xHMMZRyth_suSFWuixBEZlG78H_DYWjl3sISaTkU6PG6D_FwKy/s1600-h/bib+and+cloth+mosaic.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290880368349033762" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 202px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfDNsxCVCeL50q9zZSGoFooxRxsqkxDZRZhzC46W1oq-LcFj-OGzzCUCU-HIRm-u4HbD-nuUVM1sp5PF6hD5UlPpxoV1xHMMZRyth_suSFWuixBEZlG78H_DYWjl3sISaTkU6PG6D_FwKy/s400/bib+and+cloth+mosaic.jpg" border="0" /></a> Testing my beginner sewing skills a bit more... ever since <a href="http://shellyfish.wordpress.com/">Shellyfish</a> <a href="http://shellyfish.wordpress.com/2008/12/03/wip-wednesdays/">posted</a> about the animal friends fabric book from Natasha who runs <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5923425">Hanies Etsy shop</a>, I knew I wanted to make one for the parents-to-be. They have two rescue dogs and mom is a vegetarian, so animals are a big part of their lives (not to mention the jungle-themed party)! Each page of this fabric book features a different animal, including a cat, elephant, dog, lion, and a chicken. Sewing those tight little curves was a bit stressful for me, luckily my mom was there to help out and we cheered each other on through the tough parts.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN4sX3IRUFaQdRgD96AwKW8XPTYDbA-3CKoM4wbqORDEJbc0era96Kvb7kRfrJtxbULJcA1zPD4wUuTnq3YQg_Qe1mdK366p0SOLgL8FG9G5xAyWWxEMu5nryDpyn44Qu5obcGAiccKqnk/s1600-h/fabric+book+mosaic.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290880368233466418" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN4sX3IRUFaQdRgD96AwKW8XPTYDbA-3CKoM4wbqORDEJbc0era96Kvb7kRfrJtxbULJcA1zPD4wUuTnq3YQg_Qe1mdK366p0SOLgL8FG9G5xAyWWxEMu5nryDpyn44Qu5obcGAiccKqnk/s400/fabric+book+mosaic.jpg" border="0" /></a> And since I enjoy decorating real cakes so much, I figured I would attempt my first diaper cake for the occasion. Since this wasn't just a girly shower and I didn't want the guys feeling too threatened, I kept it simple with a few different ribbon trims and a bow on top. You can't see it, but on the inside are two bottles filled with baby stuff. Not edible, but still fun to look at.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieQ87cvp_vK5wtHH3-StHCNzQBp11syTQu1ZBcZx67MTYX7wfE70Vq4mdr_UeT5TkN_EkKkydobfyXVY7kNGbjNmIyLelggzBE6LtxkzQ81T0T6Jqut8fHLrOO0d07CnQkYsejqsPcfP3z/s1600-h/diaper+cake+mosaic.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291154591566627442" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieQ87cvp_vK5wtHH3-StHCNzQBp11syTQu1ZBcZx67MTYX7wfE70Vq4mdr_UeT5TkN_EkKkydobfyXVY7kNGbjNmIyLelggzBE6LtxkzQ81T0T6Jqut8fHLrOO0d07CnQkYsejqsPcfP3z/s400/diaper+cake+mosaic.jpg" border="0" /></a> I can hardly wait to meet their little girl! Now I am trying to figure out what homemade foods to make so I can help stock their pantry, fridge, and freezer. After all, they're going to need something to eat during those late night feedings!<br /><br /><em>This post is a part of Work-In-Progress (W.I.P.) Wednesdays where I share some of my projects that serve as a creative outlet for my mostly left-brained mind. I may be posting the results of finished projects, actual W.I.Ps, or projects that are on my to-do list. Be sure to <a href="http://shellyfish.wordpress.com/wip-wednesday/">check out others </a>that are posting their projects as well. Thanks to Shellyfish for inspiring us all! </em></p>Vegan_Noodlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946796454115691643noreply@blogger.com56tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8359137052016446422.post-47075087880883724712009-01-07T08:42:00.002-06:002009-01-07T09:30:07.886-06:00Going the Distance for Vegan PizzaCan you believe it's 2009?!? It seems like we just rang in Y2K and now all of a sudden it's nine years later. I have high hopes for 2009 though!<br /><br />To celebrate the new year, we joined some good friends for dinner at Houston's new "green" restaurant, <a href="http://www.pizzafusion.com/">Pizza Fusion</a>. Well, calling it Houston is kind of a stretch since we had to drive 40 minutes to get there (which, I know, isn't very green to drive that far for dinner), leaving the 610 loop which we rarely venture outside of. Pizza Fusion is a restaurant chain that prides itself on minimizing their ecological footprint through the use of organic ingredients, hybrid delivery vehicles, reclaimed building materials (the floors and tables in this one were from the basketball court of a local high school), LEED certification, and recycling. All good things if you ask me! Of course, the fact that they have a vegan cheese option as well as a vegan dessert, also helped lure me outside the loop.<br /><br />It was kind of surreal to see the word "vegan" emblazed on a building in the suburbs of Houston. If that's not progress, I don't know what else is.<br /><p><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3095/3174171966_1be15f56fe.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 252px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3095/3174171966_1be15f56fe.jpg" border="0" /></a> After some confusion over volumetric conversions with the bartender (the 16oz glass of beer came marked in a 0.4L glass, which is equivalent to about 13.5 oz, but we were still charged for the 16oz), our vegan breadstick order arrived with a mix of both white and multigrain minis and a marinara dipping sauce. We probably would have ordered two if we knew our pizzas would take almost an hour to arrive....<br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3088/3172602948_b7341a755f.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 375px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3088/3172602948_b7341a755f.jpg" border="0" /></a> But arrive eventually they did. Two specialty pizzas, a veggie medley (mushrooms, broccoli, bell pepper, onions) and a Seattle (onion, garlic, basil, balsamic vinegar, and artichoke hearts) both with FYH mozzarella on a crispy white dough crust. The Seattle was my favorite with the bite of the vinegar, the sweetness of the onion, and the creaminess of the melty "cheese", all the flavors melded into a perfect pairing. The pizza was definitely a hit with the vegan and non-vegan parties at our table.<br /><a href="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1038/3174175314_fc5aea9279.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 252px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1038/3174175314_fc5aea9279.jpg" border="0" /></a> To make up for the very slow service, the manager gave us a few freebies... "I'm a vegan" bracelets, coupons for soy cheese pizzas, and dessert! This vegan, gluten-free brownie was a nice ending to the meal. Not as good as my homemade brownies (they were a little grainy and could have been more chocolatey), but still good.<br /><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3129/3173342735_ed0736e148.jpg"><img style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 500px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 252px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3129/3173342735_ed0736e148.jpg" border="0" /></a>While I enjoyed out trip out to the boonies for a vegan pizza, it's not likely a trip I'll make very often. Luckily, Pizza Fusion has plans to open more locations throughout Texas and the country. Maybe one will be opening close to you (and me)!</p><p>I have been in a cooking rut lately. I think last week I ate out 4 nights in a row which is very unlike me. So I'm searching for some inspiration... what have you cooked lately that you absolutely loved?<br /></p>Vegan_Noodlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946796454115691643noreply@blogger.com36tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8359137052016446422.post-56075820915892185932008-12-29T08:56:00.000-06:002008-12-29T13:13:07.959-06:00Daring Bakers Challenge: French Yule LogI believe I have met my match. Never before have I heard myself utter the words after savoring a bite of dessert, "That's too much chocolate..." but this month's holiday <a href="http://daringbakersblogroll.blogspot.com/">Daring Bakers </a>challenge has proven that such a thing exists. Since I served the yule log for our holiday dinner, I added some <a href="http://bakeitpretty.com/">festive vintage decorations</a>. The mushrooms and silver trees were my favorite.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_qs0qHNwKRmOxRJtb4fUE-fpTV9hpdggxqy7RESeeY-3gErK7cvjky-bYaryZjb2K__5HpSN55Jjn9PYA6IBTb4CZouzgQTGRRdJO0CCODFIqKHpieHez41yHVEjo4W1G-doM8SPXx117/s1600-h/yule+log+3.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5283971616739727330" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_qs0qHNwKRmOxRJtb4fUE-fpTV9hpdggxqy7RESeeY-3gErK7cvjky-bYaryZjb2K__5HpSN55Jjn9PYA6IBTb4CZouzgQTGRRdJO0CCODFIqKHpieHez41yHVEjo4W1G-doM8SPXx117/s400/yule+log+3.jpg" border="0" /></a> This French Yule log has, count 'em, six different elements with a grand total of nine layers. Starting from the bottom up:<br />1. hazelnut genoise<br />2. dark chocolate ganache<br />3. chocolate hazelnut mousse<br />4. hazelnut praline insert<br />5. more mousse<br />6. vegan pastry cream (a stand in for creme brulee)<br />7. more mousse<br />8. more genoise<br />9. chocolate icing<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrFD8R3mYSwwPERLiGqPyivoc_6kCZwa8z-5Cl1scjPaEkdGAdzIyxlKilA9tCGKnuZUT85pUNV3D5ldaEZ7TFSgxUyQServ7WF_xf1T5yWG2mlRbgMo7l36NBGPBDZdv5bG64w5ObQnM7/s1600-h/yule+log+5.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5283971621365412738" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrFD8R3mYSwwPERLiGqPyivoc_6kCZwa8z-5Cl1scjPaEkdGAdzIyxlKilA9tCGKnuZUT85pUNV3D5ldaEZ7TFSgxUyQServ7WF_xf1T5yWG2mlRbgMo7l36NBGPBDZdv5bG64w5ObQnM7/s400/yule+log+5.jpg" border="0" /></a> Even the tiniest of pieces felt like a brick of chocolate had just settled in my stomach.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja8t1SFuzOoYVVu19gEpoFBgQo-4BYgM_dzpocsKjcyNQiFmFMVS2iU7q-wSYqZx6-YKOIQcYkSyjaviKF-UdX5IngO1OFwVzeAl7cLs79edssrqKjTBE4R0XP5oLrr72e_R5pJptJSNzs/s1600-h/yule+log+4.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5283971618965714546" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEja8t1SFuzOoYVVu19gEpoFBgQo-4BYgM_dzpocsKjcyNQiFmFMVS2iU7q-wSYqZx6-YKOIQcYkSyjaviKF-UdX5IngO1OFwVzeAl7cLs79edssrqKjTBE4R0XP5oLrr72e_R5pJptJSNzs/s400/yule+log+4.jpg" border="0" /></a> If I ever do dare to make another yule log, I think I will break it up with a bit less chocolate. Maybe a vanilla mousse? I can hardly believe I am typing this out, I feel like I'm cheating on chocolate!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjURZivRg3BdBwkgxq4KEslpubGiZSbPKm5BhELjzZli19sUtZu1pZi1qFgtKIhR2vf43qlKTA4YHi6hrEZ9Zy-zCCqNcdeGDhffJPk0TcpQMqB1j_10DHJEKXycn20W2aJqPExHkA_wrr-/s1600-h/yule+log+1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5283971612686787090" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjURZivRg3BdBwkgxq4KEslpubGiZSbPKm5BhELjzZli19sUtZu1pZi1qFgtKIhR2vf43qlKTA4YHi6hrEZ9Zy-zCCqNcdeGDhffJPk0TcpQMqB1j_10DHJEKXycn20W2aJqPExHkA_wrr-/s400/yule+log+1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><em>This month's challenge is brought to us by the adventurous Hilda from Saffron and Blueberry and Marion from Il en Faut Peu Pour Etre Heureux.<br />They have chosen a French Yule Log by Flore from Florilege Gourmand.</em>Vegan_Noodlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946796454115691643noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8359137052016446422.post-80267964655262220692008-12-24T08:54:00.004-06:002008-12-24T09:12:29.912-06:00Dance of the Sugar Plum VeganThere is something magical about the <em>Nutcracker</em> ballet... the music, the story, the thought of a land filled with endless sweets. Many years growing up, I looked forward to wearing my holiday dress and using those little glasses to magnify the dancers up on their toes. I would leave the theatre feeling like I too had been transported to the land of the sugar plum fairy with a nutcracker prince at my side. Since I didn't make it to the ballet this year, I put together my own little video to whisk me away to that magical place filled with holiday sweets...<br /><em>(music from Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker)</em><br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dw7MFg_ksfQNXu0FkIFRB5MlOQe0BDAND8DptLI6KLJw82_YIE0x-UBuG4uNkNq2rauZtupR6oZ5tolHAt2jg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br /><br />This year's holiday baking included veganizing some of my childhood favorites. They turned out so well that I'm going to share the recipes...<br /><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr0buMYpp6P2W6Fpb8q3BKbElx2zfs0Ghl6GEinlPo75aPWkPa9CaIV4I_7YTmkDm-oNsit0_rx4QaGDI4O_UBMBxkgT-t0nFNiD2AqyxoHHS28vzogZsnKetmWSdLycnVSmt7A35l5Yve/s1600-h/mounds+bars.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5283233899512550322" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr0buMYpp6P2W6Fpb8q3BKbElx2zfs0Ghl6GEinlPo75aPWkPa9CaIV4I_7YTmkDm-oNsit0_rx4QaGDI4O_UBMBxkgT-t0nFNiD2AqyxoHHS28vzogZsnKetmWSdLycnVSmt7A35l5Yve/s400/mounds+bars.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Mounds Bars - a graham cracker crust with a gooey coconut filling and topped with a layer of chocolate<br /><br />Ingredients:<br />1 cup graham cracker crumbs<br />1/4 cup sugar<br />1/4 cup Earth Balance vegan butter, melted<br /><br />1 cup coconut (sweetened, not dessicated)<br />3/4 cup sweetened condensed soy milk (recipe <a href="http://www.silksoymilk.com/AppetiteAppeal/RecipeDetail_Recipe.aspx?ID=49">here</a>)<br />1 tsp vanilla<br /><br />3/4 cup vegan chocolate chips<br />1 T chunky peanut butter<br /><br />Directions:<br />1. Preheat oven to 350. Mix crumbs, sugar, and melted earth balance and press into an 8x8 pyrex dish.<br />2. Combine coconut, sweetened condensed soymilk, and vanilla in a small bowl. Spread carefully on top of crumbs in an even layer.<br />3. Bake for 15 minutes in 350 oven. Remove from oven and cool.<br />4. Melt chocolate chips on a double broiler. Add in peanut butter. Spread on top of baked bars.<br />5. Refrigerate until chocolate has set and ready to serve. Store in refrigerator.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxFRMj7vSc7wFyJjB1OC5P1exckhI4y1h6lb8M83u67F29yzQ-6ZPpe00GqCSsycALXFlRCrc1DrWL_BtGHGch-jDrUk6P5_JA1PTmcuQrzFh_9gLCb0SdqiYlw06YHCkJE27i2QvKOHek/s1600-h/pecan+tassies+copy.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5283233903758654146" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxFRMj7vSc7wFyJjB1OC5P1exckhI4y1h6lb8M83u67F29yzQ-6ZPpe00GqCSsycALXFlRCrc1DrWL_BtGHGch-jDrUk6P5_JA1PTmcuQrzFh_9gLCb0SdqiYlw06YHCkJE27i2QvKOHek/s400/pecan+tassies+copy.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Pecan Tassies - a creamy dough with a sugary sweet pecan filling<br /><br />Ingredients:<br /><br />1/3 cup vegan cream cheese, softened<br />1/2 cup Earth Balance vegan butter, softened<br />1 cup all purpose flour<br /><br />1 1/2 tsp EnerG egg replacer + 2 T water<br />3/4 cup brown sugar<br />1 T Earth Balance vegan butter, melted<br />1 tsp vanilla<br />1/8 tsp salt<br />1/3 cup pecans, chopped<br /><br />Directions:<br /><br />1. Preheat oven to 325. Line a mini muffin pan with liners and lightly oil. Set aside.<br />2. In a stand mixer, cream together softened cream cheese and butter. Mix in flour until well incorporated. Chill in the refrigerator for an hour.<br />3. Shape dough into 24 - 1 inch balls. Place balls into greased muffin cups. Press dough into the bottom and up the sides of the cups.<br />4. Beat together the EnerG, sugar, butter, vanilla, and salt until well combined. Add the chopped pecans.<br />5. Fill the dough lined muffin cups with the pecan mixture. Top with extra pecans if desired.<br />6. Bake for 25 minutes at 325, or until filling is set. Remove from oven and cool until able to remove the tassies to a wire rack to cool completely.<br /><br />Crispy Peanut Butter Balls<br /><br />Ingredients:<br />1/2 cup sugar<br />1/2 cup light corn syrup<br />1/2 cup chunky natural peanut butter<br />2 cups crisped brown rice cereal<br />1/2 cup sweetened coconut<br /><br />Directions:<br />1. In a large bowl, combin rice cereal and coconut, set aside.<br />2. In a medium saucepan, bring sugar and corn syrup to a boil.<br />3. Add peanut butter and return to a boil. Continue to boil for approximately one minute.<br />4. Pour sugar and corn syrup mixture over cereal mixture and quickly coat the cereal.<br />5. Drop 1 T sized balls onto waxed paper and allow to cool. Store in an airtight container.<br /><br /><strong><span style="color:#ff0000;">I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday full of friends, family, and of course, lots of vegan sweets.<br /></span></strong></p>Vegan_Noodlehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15946796454115691643noreply@blogger.com31