THE ART OF THE SNACK

COLLARD WRAP TACOS WITH CITRUS SLAW

From Love and Lemons

Some may feel that this is a taco, but we also think of it as a great wrap that you can enjoy your favorite proteins with an array of veggies that will make lunch a little more exciting!

INGREDIENTS

6 to 8 medium collard leaves
2 cups shredded red cabbage
2 small oranges, segmented, plus remaining juice
2 scallions, chopped
juice and zest of 1 lime, plus lime wedges for serving
sea salt
cooked protein of choice* (see note below)
1 avocado, cubed
chopped cilantro

Creamy Chipotle Sunflower Sauce:

1¼ cups sunflower seeds
1 cup water
1 garlic clove
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
½ teaspoon sea salt
chipotle paste or powder, to taste

DIRECTIONS

1. Make the chipotle sun cheese: In a blender, puree the sunflower seeds, water, garlic, vinegar, lemon juice, salt and chipotle paste or powder. Taste and adjust seasonings. Chill until ready to use.

2. In a medium bowl, mix together the shredded cabbage, orange segments, any juice you can squeeze out of remaining orange rinds, scallions, lime juice, lime zest, and a few generous pinches of salt. Chill for at least 10 minutes, or until ready to use. Taste and adjust seasonings just before you serve.

3. Prepare a medium pot of salted boiling water and a large bowl of ice water. 

Dip the collard leaves one at a time into the boiling water for 10 to 20 seconds until they turn bright green. Remove and immediately immerse into the ice water to cool for about 15 seconds. Place on papers towels to dry. Repeat with the remaining collard leaves. Before assembling, trim off the coarse part of the stem.

4. Assemble the wraps with the protein of your choice, the cabbage slaw, avocado and cilantro. Serve with the chipotle sun cheese and additional lime wedges.

NOTES

If you use tempeh, use the cooking method from this recipe.

If you use tofu, use the cooking method from this recipe.

If you use fish, drizzle tilapia with olive oil, a pinch of paprika, salt and pepper, and bake in a 350 degree oven for about 8 minutes, or until it flakes with a fork.

SMASHED CHICKPEA SALAD SANDWICH

From Vanilla and Bean

This is a great go to sandwich to enjoy that's filled with veggies, proteins and has a great tangy taste.

INGREDIENTS

For the Salad

1 Can Chickpeas drained and rinsed (aka Garbanzo) (425g)
1/4 C + 1 tbs Dill Pickles finely chopped (55g )
1/4 C Purple Onion finely chopped (about 1/2 an onion) (36g)
2 tbs Just Mayo or Vegenaise 28g
2 1/2 tsp Stone Ground Mustard 15g
1 1/2 tsp Apple Cider Vinegar 6g
1/4 tsp + 1/8 Sea Salt 2g
2 tsp Dill Weed fresh-chopped
1/8 tsp Turmeric optional for color and health!
8-10 grinds of fresh Black Pepper

For the Sandwich (options):

Multigrain Bread or Optional Gluten Free Bread
Sprouts
Kale
Shredded Carrots
Lettuce
Tomatoes

DIRECTIONS

1. Using a potato masher, rough-mash the chickpeas until most are smashed, but there are still some whole chickpeas left. Add the pickles, onion, Vegenaise, mustard, vinegar, salt, dill, optional turmeric and black pepper. Mix well. Taste for seasoning adjustment.

2. Store in a covered container for up to two days. Delicious alone or piled high on multigrain with accompanying veggies.

GREEN GODDESS SANDWICHES

From The Bojon Gourmet

Your greens were never this zippy! 

INGREDIENTS

Green Goddess Mayonnaise (makes enough for 4-6 sandwiches):

1/3 cup packed basil leaves
1/3 cup packed tarragon leaves
1/3 cup packed chopped chives
2 medium-large garlic cloves
2 anchovy fillets
zest and juice of 1/2 a lemon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup good mayonnaise (such as Spectrum’s olive oil mayonnaise)

Pickled Spring Onions (makes enough for 4 - 6 sandwiches):

2 spring onions, bulb thinly sliced
1/2 cup white wine vinegar
2 teaspoons sugar
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
1/4 teaspoon black peppercorns, lightly crushed

Per Sandwich:

2 slices pan bread (something with a neutral flavor)
1/2 a small, ripe avocado, sliced
2 fat slices fresh mozzarella
1 medium-sized green zebra tomato (or other heirloom tomato), sliced
a few thin slices cucumber
several slices pickled onion
a handful of sprouts (such as broccoli sprouts), rinsed and dried
a couple of small lettuce leaves (butter or romaine), rinsed and dried

DIRECTIONS

Make the Mayonnaise:

In the bowl of a food processor, combine all ingredients except for the lemon juice (i.e., the basil, tarragon, chives, garlic, anchovies, lemon zest, salt, and mayonnaise) in the bowl of a food processor. Puree smooth, about 2 minutes, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. Blend in the lemon juice. Chill until needed.

Pickle the Onions:

In a medium-sized jar, combine the onions slices, vinegar, sugar, salt, and peppercorns. Put the lid on the jar and let sit for at least 10 minutes, shaking a few times to dissolve the salt and sugar. Use immediately or refrigerate until needed, up to 1 week.

Assemble the Sandwiches:

Toast the bread and spread both slices with a thick layer of the mayonnaise. Top with the avocado, mozzarella, tomato, cucumber, pickled onion, sprouts, and lettuce. Sandwich with the other slice of bread and press down gently. Optionally wrap the sandwich in parchment or secure with two toothpicks, and slice in half with a sharp serrated bread knife or chef’s knife.

THE ART OF THE SNACK | MEALS IN A JAR

Read more from the Feb issue and The Art of the Snack in mag.

THE ART OF THE SNACK | GREENS ARE KEY

Lifestyle holistic guide and host of the onine cooking show, Eat with Intention, Cassandra Bodzak has a new book that illustrates her focus on wellness - EAT WITH INTENTION. It combines recipes, a bit of background on them and meditation together, which makes for a balanced book to refer to as you make a number of the tasty treats. It's a book that definitely focuses on the mind, body and soul while leaving you great items to share with family and friends.

 
GROUNDING SALAD

When we are ungrounded, it feels like chaos; all the thoughts in our heads are swirling, we don’t feel solid or at peace, and we don’t make the best decisions because we’re not thinking clearly. By connecting back to nature and eating more root vegetables and warm foods, we bring ourselves back to a steady, more powerful place. Roasting vegetables—especially root vegetables—gives them a grounding energy, which has an incredible power to connect us back to the earth’s core. This salad is a great balance of both: it not only quenches the desire for the greens of a salad, but it also includes hearty roasted veggies, such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, and potatoes, along with lots of great spices, to bring you back down into your root chakra.

DOWN TO EARTH MEDITATION

Ideally, you would do this meditation on a nice patch of grass or perhaps sitting on the beach; however, you can still connect yourself to the center of the earth in just a few minutes right in the comfort of your home. Find a comfortable place to sit in easy pose close
your eyes, and start focusing on your breath—in through your nose and out your mouth. Bring your attention to where you are sitting on the floor and imagine a thick rope extending out of your being, all the way down and around the core of the earth, anchor-

ing you to it. Feel that rope crystallize and strengthen, all the way from the base of your spine into the earth’s core.  Take a moment to really embrace this connected, anchored, and supported feeling, knowing that you are being held so powerfully by this planet, and then carry that with you throughout your day. Sit anywhere from 3 to 20 minutes. When you are ready to re- lease and end the meditation, gently move your fingers and toes, rub your palms together, and place them over your eye sockets as your slowly open your eyes and expose them to the light.

Yield: 2 Servings 

Ingredients

5 tablespoons (75 ml) extra-virgin olive oil, divided
4 baby potatoes, sliced (I prefer the
colored ones, but any kind will do!)
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 teaspoons fine sea salt, divided
2 teaspoons garlic powder, divided
2 teaspoons onion powder, divided
½ cup (44 g) quartered Brussels sprouts
1 clove garlic, thinly sliced
1 shallot, thinly sliced
¼ cup (31 g) sliced carrot
2 teaspoons slivered almonds
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon curry powder
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 cup (68 g) chopped kale
1 cup (29 g) spring mix salad

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C, or gas mark 7). Lightly grease 2 baking sheets with 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil and set aside.

2. In a small bowl, combine the potatoes, oregano, 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil, and 1 teaspoon each of the salt, garlic, and onion powder and mix until thoroughly coated. Transfer the potatoes to one of the prepared baking sheets and roast for 10 minutes, or until the edges turn crisp and golden brown. 

3. Meanwhile, combine the Brussels sprouts and 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil in a small bowl and toss with the remaining 1 teaspoon salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Arrange them on the other prepared baking sheet and roast in the oven for 5 to 7 minutes, or
until the edges turn crisp and golden brown.

4. Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and shallot and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add
the sliced carrots, almonds, turmeric, curry powder, and ground coriander, reduce the heat, and lightly sauté for several minutes, until the shallots and garlic are browned.

5. Divide the kale and spring mix between 2 individual serving bowls. Add the roasted potatoes and Brussels sprouts, and then finish with the carrot mixture.

FOCUS POTION

Distractions are everywhere these days, especially with smart phones and social media vying for our attention throughout the day. My daily focusing weapon is always my meditation and reciting what I’m here to do. What’s your mission statement? I’ll give you a hint: For all of us, at its core, it is being a living example of love incarnate. When we adjust our focus through our divine purpose, we have a lot more power when it comes to steering clear of mindless distractions. This potion is a bit of a secret weapon of mine for days when shiny objects are getting the better of me. The sweet combination of grapes with the alkalizing punch of kale and celery perks you up while magical rosemary focuses all that good energy in the area you need it!

DIVINE PURPOSE VISUALIZATION

Sit in easy pose with your eyes closed and focused on your third-eye point (the space between your eyebrows). Take long, deep breaths in through your nose and out your mouth. Feel your body come into a calm balance. Now, bring what your purpose on this planet is to the top of your mind. If you are unclear of what your purpose is, use “I am here to be love,” because that is all of our main purpose. Allow it to be your mantra for a few moments, letting it roll around your head, down your spine, and through your breath flow. Now bring to mind what this would look like to you. How do you behave? How do people around you feel and act? What’s the ripple effect in the world? Allow these images to flood your mind for the next 3 to 5 minutes before bringing yourself back to your original purpose statement, taking a deep breath in, holding it, and releasing it.

Yield: 1 Serving

Ingredients

3 celery stalks
2 cups (134 g) baby kale
1 cup (150 g) grapes
3 drops rosemary essential oil
2 sprigs fresh rosemary, to garnish
1. Put celery, kale, and grapes into a juicer and juice into a large glass. 
2. Stir in the rosemary oil, garnish with sprigs of rosemary, and serve immediately. 

RADIANCE JUICE

Roald Dahl famously said: “If you have good thoughts, they will shine out of your face like sunbeams and you will always look lovely.” I couldn’t agree more. Beauty starts from within and permeates outward. Thinking thoughts that nourish your soul and eating foods that nourish your body are more effective than the most luxurious makeup money can buy. You can’t fake true radiance. This juice is packed with nutrients that will get you glowing from the inside out! Pineapple juice promotes healthy skin and helps prevent acne; watercress is also great for your overall health with its high levels of vitamin C; and cucumber has cooling and moisturizing properties.

RADIANT HEART MEDITATION

In this exercise, we are going to pull energy into our heart center and allow it to saturate every cell of our being, filling us with light and allowing our inner radiance to pour outward as it overflows.

Begin by sitting in easy pose and breathing long and deep. Close your eyes and focus on your heart center while using your hands to slowly and steadily pull the energy surrounding you into your heart. Your hands should stay at heart height and move from the sides of your body inward, as if you are catching a ball and bringing it into your heart. Feel the light in your heart expand and grow brighter with each motion. Continue for at least 3 minutes, gradually building up to 11 minutes. Take a deep breath in and bring your hands into your heart, right palm on top of left. Feel the energy pulsing through your heart center and allow it to distribute throughout your entire being. Imagine it filling up each cell with its loving light energy. Exhale.

Yield: 1 Serving

Ingredients

½ cup (17 g) watercress
2 cucumbers, peeled
2 limes, peeled
1 cup (166 g) pineapple chunks

1. Starting with the watercress, juice all the ingredients into a large glass. 

2. Lightly stir and serve immediately

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Cassandra Bozak

See more from the Jan Issue 

THE ART OF THE SNACK | EAT LIKE FRANK SINATRA

In over 70 years of existence, Patsy’s Italian Restaurant has had only three chefs, the late Patsy himself, his son Joe Scognamillo and Joe’s son Chef Sal Scognamillo, who has been manning the kitchen for the past 30 years.  Frank Sinatra first met “Patsy” Scognamillo in 1942, which sparked a lifelong relationship between Patsy’s and Sinatra. Whenever he was in NY, he would visit the restaurant with his friends.

FRANK'S CLAMS POSILLIPO

Serves: 4 
Ingredients

32 littleneck clams
3 tbsp. olive oil
6 garlic cloves, halved
¼ cup onion, chopped
28 oz. can whole plum tomatoes with juice
Salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
1 tbsp. tomato paste
¼ cup chopped fresh basil
1 tbsp. chopped flat leaf parsley, plus more for garnish

Directions

1. Scrub the clams with a stiff brush, rinse thoroughly in cold water and place in a large pot. Add cold water to just cover (or slightly less) and bring to a boil over high heat. Cook until the clams open, about 5 minutes. Using tongs or a slotted spoon remove the clams to a large bowl as they open and discard any that do not open.

2. Strain the cooking liquid though a chinois/strainer lined with a coffee filter. Reserve ¾ cup of the strained cooking liquid.

3. Return the clams to the pot, add cold water and stir to remove any remaining sand. Drain and reserve clams.

4. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium flame and sauté the garlic halves until golden, about 2 minutes. Remove garlic with tongs and discard. Add the onions to the garlic oil and sauté 3 to 4 minutes, until soft but do not brown. Coarsely chop the tomatoes and add them and their juice to the saucepan. Bring the sauce to a boil, reduce heat and simmer covered for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Season the sauce to taste with salt and pepper. Stir in the tomato paste and add the basil and 1 tbsp. of parsley. Simmer UNCOVERED 5 minutes.

6. Add the reserved clam broth and clams to the sauce and bring to boil. Cover the saucepan, reduce heat and simmer 8 to 10 minutes or until the clams are heated through. Spoon the clams and sauce into serving bowls, garnish with parsley and serve immediately with hot crusty bread.

FRANK’S VEAL CUTLETS MILANESE

Serves 8
Ingredients

½ small Italian stale baguette (½ lb.)
2 tbsp. freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano
Pinch of oregano
¼ cup minced flat-leaf parsley
1 cup plus 3 tbsp. olive oil
¼ tsp. salt
1/8 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
8 veal cutlets (about 1 ¼ lb.), pounded to slightly less than ¼"
Salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
1 lemon cut into 8 wedges

Directions

1. Break or cut the bread into large chunks and place in a food processor. Process until the bread is reduced to fine crumbs. Transfer the crumbs to a large bowl and stir in the cheese, oregano, and parsley. Gradually add 3 tbsp. of oil, stirring, until thoroughly combined. Season with salt and pepper.

2. Spread the flour on a large plate, place the eggs in a shallow bowl, and spread the seasoned bread crumbs on a second large plate. Coat each veal cutlet in the flour, then the beaten eggs, and then the bread crumbs, patting with the palm of your hand to ensure adhesion. 
 
3. Heat 1 cup of the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high flame (to a frying temperature of 350 F) and sauté the veal for 2 minutes.  Turn and sauté for 1 additional minute.  Do not crowd pan. If necessary, fry the cutlets in batches. Remove with a slotted spatula and drain on paper towels.  Season to taste with salt and pepper, and serve with lemon wedges.

FRANK’S LEMON RICOTTA TORTE

Serves 8

Ingredients

1 3-lb. container whole-milk ricotta cheese

1 2/3 cups sugar
3 extra-large eggs
½ tsp. vanilla extract
Zest from 1 lemon
Butter and flour, for greasing pan

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400º F.

2. In a large bowl, mix the ricotta, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and juice from the lemon until well blended.

3. Butter and flour a 9x2" round baking pan. Spoon the mixture into the pan and smooth the top with a spatula. To prevent the spillage of rising batter over the side of the pan, construct a collar around the pan that extends at least two inches above the top with a sheet of aluminum foil folded in half lengthwise and secured with tape.  Bake on the bottom shelf of the oven for 55 minutes.

4. Refrigerate for three to four hours.  Remove from refrigerator and allow to return to room temperature before serving.

THE ART OF THE SNACK | BEER

ROGUE FARMS

We've had the pleasure of enjoying Rogue Ales & Spirits as they have a number of interesting ingredients that they bring together for the perfect pint. This fall, they released the anticipated Rogue Pumpkin Patch Ale, brewed with fresh pumpkins grown and harvested at Rogue Farms in Independence, Oregon.

Pumpkin Patch Ale can only be brewed when Mother Nature deems Rogue Farms Dream Pumpkins ripe. One acre of Dream Pumpkins was planted in late spring alongside the Rogue Farms hops, jalapeños, marionberries and buzzing honey bees. This means the small orange gourds are deep orange in color and their sweetness has peaked from the warm Oregon summer.

As soon as they were picked, the pumpkins were driven to the Rogue Brewery in Newport, Oregon just 77 miles away. The pumpkins were hand-chopped and seeded, roasted in pizza ovens, and pitched fresh into the brew kettle along with vanilla bean, ginger, cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, orange peel and Rogue Farms Independent hops to create Pumpkin Patch Ale.

“It takes time to plant, grow, harvest, roast and brew with our own pumpkins, but real pumpkin beer is worth the wait,” said Rogue Brewmaster John Maier.  

Pumpkin Patch Ale is now available nationwide in 750 Ml bottles and on draft.

About Rogue Farms:

Rogue Ales & Spirits is an agri-fermenter founded in Oregon in 1988, as one of America's first microbreweries. Rogue has won more than 1,700 awards for taste, quality and packaging and is available in all 50 states as well as 54 countries. Since 2008, Rogue has remained committed to saving the terroir of Oregon hops, barley, rye, wheat, honey, jalapenos, pumpkins and marionberries one acre at a time by growing their own.

HITACHINO NEST

A few years ago, our Style Director stumbled upon, Hitachino Nest, because of the owl logo while shopping at Whole Foods. With a number of blends such as Red Rice Ale, White Ale, Espresso Stout and more - it's a beer worth knowing and including within your mix.

This Japanese brewery is so focused on their craft and inspired commitment to flavorful ingredients, you will not find a lot of marketing around this brand but those who know know that "Nest is Best".

About Hitachino Nest:

Hitachino Nest Beer is brewed by KIUCHI BREWERY which has been brewing Japanese Sake since 1823, and now the family is in its 8th generation.

Sakaide ("Spring-out sake") is the place close to the facility which is believed to be the place where sake sprand out of the well.

Hitachino is the name of the province in ancient Japan which covers the area of their brewery and was famous for its fertile soil, making the land perfect for brewing.

Although the malts and hops (in 2014, they began growing their own hops at the brewery site which is a new challenge for better sustainability) are imported from the West, Hitachino Nest is not simply imitating the Western way of brewing, it is still a Japanese beer. The combinations of mixing the malts and hops are infinite. As these are natural plants, flavors and aromas of these ingredients change slightly depending on the crop season. The subtle differences are detected by those who are involved in the process and not the machines. The brewery focuses on matching and balancing the character of each ingredient to create a refined synergy to create the perfect brew.

The "Nest is Best" is distributed to over 30 countries, including the US, Great Britain, Thailand and Australia.

CONEY ISLAND BREWING CO

Each of Coney Island Brewery’s beers are inspired by the seaside boardwalk neighborhood of Coney Island and the surrounding Brooklyn borough. As an active brewery, they encourage guests to visit them on Surf Avenue in Coney Island, Brooklyn! With a number of beers with a following, you can enjoy a pint, take a scheduled tour, shop and purchase growlers to go!

Guests can enjoy 8 house-brewed beers on tap that rotate regularly to offer you something different each time. Depending on the time of year, guests can experience some of our extremely limited, specialty Freak Beer styles, like Kettle Corn Cream Ale and Cotton Candy Kolsch. In addition, you can have your own party there as well as attend an event.

We recommend making your way to this institution (which sits next door to Brooklyn's own minor league baseball team, Brooklyn Cyclones).

About Coney Island Brewery Co.:

The mission of Coney Island Brewing is to brew craft beer that captures the spirit, flavor and romance that is Coney Island. Coney Island Brewing Company is an A&S Brewing Collaborative brand, a subsidiary of the Boston Beer Company.

THE ART OF THE SNACK: OATMEAL

TUSCAN BEAN AND KALE

Via Grainful

Ingredients:

Water
Kidney Beans
Garbanzo Beans
100% Whole Grain Steel Cut Oats (Gluten Free) Tomatoes
Kale
Tomato Paste
Onions
Garlic
Olive Oil
Salt
Granulated Garlic
Parsley
Oregano
Basil

Directions:

The Art of the Snack always looks at various treats that one can enjoy with shared ingredients and we include a recipe so you can make it yourself! But every now and then, it's nice to have something that is already made.We love that Grainful focuses on savory meals using Steel Cut Oatmeal. For our Gluten Free friends, this is a must to have in your freezer!

Simply follow the directions on the back of the box to heat this conveniently (and easily) in your microwave.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Lorie’s Mississippi Kitchen

MAPLE AND OAT BANANA ICE CREAM SANDWICHES

Via Lorie's Mississippi Kitchen

Ingredients:

4 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup maple syrup
3 cups quick oats
1 1/2 cups finely chopped walnuts
5 medium very ripe bananas, peeled and cut into small chunks and completely frozen
5 teaspoons maple syrup

Directions:

Heat butter and 1/2 cup maple syrup in a small sauce pan, whisking until melted and smooth. Place the oats and walnuts in a large mixing bowl. Add the maple syrup mixture and mix to evenly coat.  

Line two 8 x 8 inch square pans with foil letting foil hang over sides, then lightly spray with cooking spray.  Divide the oat mixture between the two pans, pressing firmly and evenly into the bottom of the pan.  Freeze until very firm, about 3-4 hours in deep freeze.

Place the bananas in a food processor with 5 teaspoons maple syrup and process until smooth and creamy.

Immediately spread the banana ice cream evenly over one frozen oat layer.  Carefully lift the other frozen oat layer out of the pan by using the foil, then peel the foil off and place on top of the ice cream, pressing down slightly.  Freeze until firm.  Remove from pan using the foil to lift it out, then cut into bars quickly.

Tip: Peel very ripe bananas and freeze them on a baking sheet that has been lightly sprayed with nonstick cooking spray.  When they are frozen they go into a ziplock bag to store in the freezer for smoothies or ice cream.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Vida Bienestar

AGUA DE AVENA

Via Vida Bienestar

Ingredients:

1 cup of oatmeal
1 green apple
1 tablespoon of flaxseed
2 cups water

Directions:

Cut the apple into cubes with the skin and seeds. Blend all ingredients.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Grainful.com

See more from the Oct Issue.

ART OF THE SNACK: CHAI

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF BUTTERCREAM CHANTILLY

CHAI TEA FUDGE

Yields 36 Squares

Ingredients:

Chai tea syrup / concentrate:

1 Liter / 4 cups water
3 sticks cinnamon
10 cardamom pods, crushed
10 whole cloves
1/2 teaspoon of whole black peppercorns
1 inch section of fresh ginger, thinly sliced
1 vanilla bean, split in half
10 tsp black tea or10 bags
240g / /1 cup packed brown sugar
2 tbsp maple syrup

Directions:

Put all of the spices in one large tea filter bagand tie it shut with kitchen twine.  The samecan be done with the tea in another filter. If you use teabags don’t forget to take the labels off. You can use a cheesecloth square section as well, or you can just add your spices to the waterand strain them out later.

Bring the water to a boil in a large pot.

Add tea and spices. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 20/25 minutes.

Remove the pot from the heat.

If you are using tea filter bags or cheesecloth and tea bags, just take them off the water. (If not strain concentrate and pour it back into the pot.)

Add brown sugar and maple syrup. Stir well to dissolve and bring toa boil.

Reduce heat toa simmer.

Continue simmering,uncovered, until the liquid reduces to a syrup, approximately 1 cup.

Allow to cool for 10 minutes then pour the syrup into a sterilised bottle/jar.

Store in the fridge.

Chai Spice Mix:

1 tbsp Ground Cinnamon
2 tsp Ground Ginger
1 tsp ground cardamom
1 tsp cloves
1 tsp allspice
1 tsp vanilla powder (or one vanilla pod gratted)

Steps:

Mix all the spices in a small jar.

Store in the fridge.

Ingredients:

396g / 14 oz /  1 can condensed milk
56 g /  2 oz /  1/4 cup butter, cubed
1 pinch salt
425g / 15 oz /  2 1/2 cups white chocolate chips
3 tsp Chai spices
2 Tbsp Chai Tea Syrup

Directions:

Line an 8×8 inch (20cmx20cm) pan with parchment paper (leaving a 2-inch /5 cm overhang on two sides).

In a large microwave safe bowl combine condensed milk , butterand salt.

Microwave on high for 3 minutes. It will be very bubbly.

Add the white chocolates chips.

Stir well until all the chocolate is melted and the mixture is really smooth.

Add the Chai spices and Chai tea syrup. Mix one more time and freeze until completely set.

Lift bars from pan and cut into36 squares.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SWEET BOAKE

CHAI SPICED MACARONS

Ingredients:

1/2 cup butter
3/4 cup icing sugar
1/2 cup ground almonds
1/4 cup corn starch
2 tbspground chai tea
1/2 tsp vanilla
2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1 pinch cayenne pepper

Beat the butter until fluffy.

Add the icing sugar, beat until incorporated.

Add one ingredient at a time, add the ground almonds, corn starch and ground chai.

After each addition, scrape down the sides and mix thoroughly.

Lastly, add the spices and vanilla and mix.

Transfer into a small pastry bag fitted with a round tip and pipe a dollop onto half of the macaron shells.

Sandwich two of the shells together and slightly squeeze.

Store in an airtight container in the fridge.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SARAH HEARTS

NO COOK CHAI ICE CREAM

SERVES 2

Ingredients:

1/2 cup whole milk
6 scoops Trader Joe’s Spicy Chai Tea Latte Mix
half and half (about 1/2 cup)
3 cups heavy cream
1 1/2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract

Heat up the ½ cup whole milk in a microwave proof measuring cup (the flex-it ones are my favorite for liquids) until is warm and just before boiling. Add 6 scoops of the chai mix and stir until the mix completely dissolves. Top it off with half and half until there are 1 ½ cups of liquid. Place the mixture in the fridge for about 30 minutes so it can cool.

Whisk together the chai mixture, heavy cream and vanilla extract in a large bowl. Pour the mixture into a running ice cream maker and run it according to the manufacture’s directions. I recommend tasting the mixture before pouring it into the ice cream machine. Since the Trader Joe’s chai mix already has sugar in it, I chose not to add any, but you may want to add 2 tablespoons of sugar to make it a bit sweeter.

If you’re using the Cuisinart one, like mine, I recommend running it for 20-25 minutes. Any longer and the ice cream will overflow. Once it’s churned, spread the ice cream in an air tight ice cream container (this one is my favorite because you get perfectly round scoops) and put it in the freezer overnight. Then it’s ready to be enjoyed tomorrow!

See more from the Sept issue.

THE ART OF THE SNACK - SMOOTHIE BOWLS

We're sure you follow a number of people who share Smoothie Bowl recipes. This month we share our favorites from Melissa Stadler of Modern Honey, Karissa Bowers of Organic Authority, and Jessica in the Kitchen. 

Courtesu of Melissa Stadler

POWER ACAI SMOOTHIE BOWL

SERVES 1-2

Ingredients:

Berry Version:

1 Acai Superfruit Pack, unsweetened (100 g)
¼ Cup Blueberries
¼ Cup Strawberries
1 Banana (frozen)
2 Tablespoons Chocolate Protein Powder
¼ - ½ cup Apple Juice (can substitute coconut water or chocolate almond milk)
Ice 

Tropical Version:

1 Acai Superfruit Packet, unsweetened
½ Cup Mango
½ Cup Pineapple
½ Banana (frozen)
¼ Cup Coconut Water, Milk, or Apple Juice

Toppings:

Almond Butter
Cacao Nibs or Shaved Dark Chocolate
Unsweetened Coconut Flakes
Blueberries
Strawberries
Mangoes
Pineapple
Granola
Banana
Honey

*You can substitute any frozen berries for acai

Directions:

1. Blend acai, blueberries, strawberries, banana, protein powder and apple juice. If you are using frozen fruit, you will need ½ cup of apple juice, to help the blender break it down. If you are using fresh fruit, ¼ cup of apple juice is needed. Feel free to substitute apple juice with coconut water or chocolate almond milk.

2. Top with your favorite topping: almond butter, chocolate, coconut, blueberries, strawberries, mango, pineapple, banana, homemade granola and drizzle with honey.

Photo courtesy of Organic Authority

SPRING & MINT STRAWBERRY SMOOTHIE BOWL

SERVES 2

Ingredients:

2 Medjool Dates, pitted
1 Frozen Banana, chopped
¼ Cup fresh Strawberries
¼ Cup Raspberries, frozen or fresh
1 Tablespoon fresh Mint Leaves, minced
1 Cup unsweetened Almond Milk
½ Teaspoon pure Vanilla Extract
Garnish: Sliced fresh Strawberries, Raspberries, and Mint

Directions:

1. Add Dates and Almond Milk to the blender. Blend until Dates are smooth.

2. Add the rest of the ingredients and blend until creamy. Add another tablespoon or two more Almond Milk if needed and blend until desired consistency is reached.

3. Pour into each bowl and add desired garnishes. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Photo courtesy of Jessica in the Kitchen

COCONUT & KIWI SMOOTHIE BOWL

SERVES 2

Ingredients:

3 Slices of Pineapple
2 Cups fresh Spinach, washed and stems removed
2 Frozen Bananas
1/3 Cup Orange Juice
1 Tablespoon Chia Seeds

Toppings:

Granola
1 Kiwi, cut in half
Hemp Seeds

Directions:

1. Blend all together in a high power blender (such as a Nutri Bullet).

2. Top with desired amount of toppings.

3. Serve and enjoy!

THE ART OF THE SNACK - SALADS

The salad is truly a dish for all seasons for an array of meals. In The Modern Salad (available Sept), Elizabeth Howes shares recipes that will make you re-think your next choice and to wow your guests. Pictures courtesy of Kimberley Hasslebrink.

COCONUT-MATCHA JEWELED RICE SALAD 

SERVES 4-6

Ingredients:

2 cups brown basmati rice, soaked in filtered water overnight
2 tablespoons grapeseed oil, divided
1 cup finely diced shallot (about 3 medium shallots)
1 clove garlic, finely diced
3 whole cloves
3-inch piece of Ceylon cinnamon stick
2 cups coconut milk
3 cups filtered water
1½ teaspoons matcha powder
1½ cups dried fruit (diced mango, apricots, cranberries, and goji berries)
1 cup golden raisins
½ teaspoon ground coriander
1 cup roughly chopped raw pistachios
½ cup raw slivered almonds
¼ cup raw seeds (pumpkin, sunflower, and hemp are good choices)
2 cups finely shredded purple cabbage
(about 1 small head)
2 cups finely shredded carrots (about 3 large carrots)
1 cup pomegranate seeds
1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
¼ cup finely chopped scallion
1 tablespoon orange zest (optional)
¼ cup good-quality extra virgin olive oil sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper, plus Maldon sea salt for finishing

Directions:

1. Drain and rinse the rice, shaking the strainer to remove any excess water.

2. Add 1 tablespoon of the grapeseed oil to a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. 

3. Cook the shallot, garlic, cloves, and cinnamon stick for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant. 

4. Add the rice, and stir to combine. Add the coconut milk, filtered water, and matcha powder.  Stir to combine, and bring to a boil.

5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, and simmer, covered but slightly cracked open, for 40 to 45 minutes. If the rice is fully cooked but hasn’t absorbed all the liquid, it’s perfectly fine to drain.

6. Remove the cloves and cinnamon stick, and allow to cool uncovered. 

7. Fluff the rice with a fork, and season with salt and pepper.

8. While the rice is cooking, in a medium skillet over medium heat, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of grapeseed oil. 

9. Add the dried fruit, raisins, and coriander. Stir occasionally until the fruit begins to soften, about 3 to 4 minutes. 

10. Season with salt and pepper, and transfer to a plate to cool. 

11. In the same skillet, toast the pistachios, almonds, and seeds over medium heat for
about 2 to 4 minutes, and transfer to another plate to cool.

12. Arrange the rice, fruit mixture, nuts and seeds, cabbage, carrots, pomegranate seeds, coconut flakes, scallion, and orange zest, if using, on a large serving platter or on individual plates. 

13. Drizzle with the best-quality extra virgin olive oil you can fnd, and sprinkle with fnishing salt and freshly cracked black pepper, if desired. Toss thoroughly at tableside to combine.

GREEN MANGO, MINT, AND RICE NOODLE SALAD WITH CHILE OIL

SERVES 4

Ingredients:

1 green mango, peeled and sliced into very thin matchsticks
2 limes, divided
8 ounces brown rice pad thai noodles
1 (9-ounce) package mung bean sprouts
5–6 scallions, thinly sliced on the bias
½ cup roughly torn fresh mint

¼ cup roughly torn fresh basil
¼ cup Toasted Chickpea Flour, divided
¼ cup Chile Oil
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 tablespoon chile flakes, sea salt, plus Maldon sea salt for finishing

Directions:

1. In a medium bowl, toss the sliced mango with the juice of 1 lime and a generous pinch of sea salt. 

2. Allow to sit for 10 minutes while you cook the noodles according to the package instructions. 

3. Drain, rinse the noodles with cold water to prevent sticking, and shake of the excess water before assembling the salad.

4. In a large serving bowl, add the noodles, green mango, mung bean sprouts, scallions, mint, basil, and 3 tablespoons of the chickpea four.

5. Drizzle the chile oil and fish sauce over the top, and toss to combine.

6. Garnish with the chile flakes, the remaining 1 tablespoon of chickpea four, and the remaining lime, quartered into wedges, and Maldon sea salt right before serving.

MASSAGED KALE AND SEAWEED SALAD WITH MISO VINAIGRETTE

SERVES 2-4

¼ cup white miso paste
1–2 cloves garlic, smashed into a paste
2 teaspoons umeboshi plum vinegar
2 tablespoons unseasoned rice vinegar
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
½ cup filtered water
¼ cup, plus 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
2 medium bunches Tuscan kale, stems removed
3 medium heads romaine hearts
4 large carrots, peeled and shaved into thin ribbons with a vegetable peeler
4 cups seaweed, soaked in filtered water for 15 minutes or until soft, then drained thoroughly

4 cups finely shredded purple cabbage (about 1 medium head)
1 cup raw pumpkin seeds, plus extra for garnish
1 cup raw, shelled sunflower seeds, plus extra for garnish
1 cup raw hemp seeds, plus extra for garnish
½ cup finely chopped on the bias scallions sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper

Directions:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the miso paste, garlic, both vinegars, lemon juice, and filtered water until smooth. 

2. Slowly stream in the olive oil until emulsifed. 

3. Season with salt and pepper, if needed. 

4. Transfer the vinaigrette to a glass jar, and refrigerate for up to 5 days.

5. To prepare the kale, stack 5 to 8 leaves on top of each other. Roll tightly into a log, and slice into a 1-inch chifonade. Continue with the remaining kale. In a large bowl, add about ¼ cup of the vinaigrette. 

6. Place the kale on top, and lightly season with sea salt. With clean hands, gently massage the vinaigrette and salt into the kale until it begins to soften, adding more vinaigrette if necessary. At this point, you can either refrigerate the kale for up to 30 minutes or continue to assemble the salad. 

7. To chifonade the romaine hearts, stack 4 to 5 leaves and slice them into 1-inch strips. Continue with the remaining romaine then add them to the kale mixture.

8. To assemble, add the carrot, seaweed, cabbage, seeds, and scallions to the kale mixture in a large bowl. Toss with additional vinaigrette - adding more salt and/or pepper, if necessary. Serve on individual plates and garnish with additional seeds, if desired.

Read more from the July Issue

THE ART OF THE SNACK: AVOCADO

This vegetable is always trending whether enjoying it on toast, solo, in salads or a number of other ways. In this issue's The Art of the Snack we share recipes for Avocados from Peru for a smoothie as well as a twist on a breakfast classic.

Pictures courtesy of Stuart Ramson/AP

Pictures courtesy of Stuart Ramson/AP

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Food Deco

PERUVIAN AVOCADO SUPER FOOD SMOOTHIE

Ingredients:

1 ripe Avocado from Peru, peeled and pitted
1 (13.5-oz) can lite or regular coconut milk
1 cup pineapple juice
1 Tbsp fresh lime juice
2 Tbsp sugar
1 cup ice cubes

Directions:

Combine all ingredients in a blender, secure with lid and puree until smooth.

Options:

• For added sweetness, dip the moistened rim of the glass (water or citrus juices work well) into a pile of sugar that is about ¼” deep.  Shake off the excess sugar and pour the smoothie.

• Before blending, add your favorite protein powder for a nutritionally boost.  

Yield:  4 cups; 1 cup per serving

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Food Deco

PERUVIAN AVOCADO EGG SCRAMBLE

Ingredients:

1 large egg
¼ cup liquid pasteurized egg product
1 Tbsp vegetable oil
1 ounce (2 slices) Peruvian Avocado
Salt
Pepper
Slice of whole wheat toast

Directions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together egg product and egg until smooth.
2. Stir in salt and pepper.
3. Heat oil. Whisk in egg mixture and cook while constantly stirring until mixture sets.  
4. Place eggs on toasted bagel and top with avocado.

Options:

• Add 1 Tbsp scallions, minced or thinly sliced, to the egg mixture before cooking.

• Sauté 1 tsp fresh gingerroot, peeled and minced, then add egg mixture.

Yield:  1 serving

The Art of the Snack - Tacos

We love a good taco around Athleisure Kitchen and this month, we shared some recipes from a foodie influencer and former The Bachelor/Bachelorette contestant who is an HGTV TV Personality.

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20-Minute Ancho Chicken Tacos

Lindsay, Pinch of Yum - IG @PinchOfYum

Serves: 12 small tacos

Ingredients

Ancho Chicken
•½ cup white whole wheat flour (all purpose also works)
•2 teaspoons ancho chili powder
•1 teaspoon southwestern or taco seasoning
•a generous pinch of salt and pepper
•2 tablespoons oil
•1½ lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Tacos and Toppings
•12 small corn tortillas
•a few green cabbage leaves, shredded
•one bunch cilantro, chopped
•toppings: lime wedges, sour cream, jalapeño slices, avocado slices, minced green or red onions

Instructions

1. Toss the cabbage and cilantro together. Prep the other toppings.

2. Combine the flour, ancho chili powder, southwestern seasoning, and salt and pepper in a shallow dish.

3. In a heavy duty pan, heat the oil to medium high heat. Cut the chicken breasts in half or quarters, toss in the flour mixture, and add to the pan. Cook for a few minutes; flip, and cook for another few minutes until the outside is browned and the inside is no longer pink. Remove from heat, sprinkle with a little more salt, and allow to rest for a few minutes. Cut or shred the chicken into small pieces.

4. Warm tortillas (I just microwave for a 20 seconds or so) and assemble with the chicken and toppings. Be generous with the lime juice and jalapeños for extra zing! 

View fullsize

Air Fried Fish Tacos

Jillian Harris, HGTV Love It or List It Host - IG @Jillian.Harris

Ingredients

Corn Tortillas
Peach Salsa
Avocado Cream (recipe below)
Cilantro
Fresh Halibut
1 can of Beer
1 1/2 cup Flour
1 tsp Baking Powder
2 tbsp Vegetable Oil
1 tsp of Salt
Cholula sauce
Philips Airfryer

Instructions

1. On a plate, lay out corn tortillas, top with peach salsa, set aside.
2. Slice your halibut into small strips.

3. Mix 1 cup flour, salt, baking powder and enough beer until you have a nice consistency

4. Toss the halibut in remaining flour to give it an initial coating, then place it in the beer batter mixture until coated.
5. Set on GREASED philips air fryer rack and cook 6-8 minutes at 200 degrees until golden.
6. Place fish on top of salsa mixture top with avocado cream, more cilantro if desired and Cholula sauce.

Avocado Cream:

1 large avocado
3/4 cup buttermilk
Juice from 1/2 lime

Mix in a blender until smooth

The Art of the Snack - Fruits and Veggies

Snacking just got easier with two recipes that allow you to get vital nutrients, while taking very little time to make! These are perfect for the Spring and the Summer.

We hit the Athleisure Kitchen with Chef Rosalie from Williams Sonoma and began thinking about how we can get fruits and vegetables into our meals. These treats are perfect now as well as when we head into the summer. When you master these recipes, you can add your own twists to them and both can be done rather quickly!

We love a good ice pop as it's cool and refreshing. A few seasons ago we learned about Zoku which easily makes and freezes your pops of choice. A huge trend is being able to include slices of fruit, adding yogurt creation and when you have really mastered it, a boozy option that is perfect for day or night! We created a POM-pop, Pear Pop and a Passion Fruit Pop. 

POPSICLE INGREDIENTS

• Your drink of choice (we had three different pops so we used Ceres Pear, Ceres Passion Fruit and POM Wonderful - no sugar free juices) 

• Sliced assorted fruit 

• Zoku machine 

• Make sure to slice your chosen fruits into thin slices. We used plums, kiwi and strawberries 

• Pour your beverage of choice into the Zoku maker

• Place your sliced fruits into each slot with the beverage

• Place the spill guard sticks in the Zoku 

NOTE: You must place the Zoku in the freezer before using it to make your pops. The Zoku will freeze your treats within 12 minutes! Once it is frozen, you can make 3 servings of 3 (9 pops total) before you have to freeze it again.

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PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Vitamix

Hummus is such a great snack that takes chickpeas to another level. The easiest way to make it is in the Vitamix. We have taken the classic recipe and added a few twists that give it an elevated taste while also being really quick and easy to make!

HUMMUS INGREDIENTS: 

• 2 15oz cans of chickpeas (garbanzos), one drained , one with liquid

• 1/4 cup (35g) raw sesame seeds

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/4 cup (60ml) lemon juice

• 1 garlic clove peeled

• 1 teaspoon cumin

• Salt and crushed red pepper

• Place all ingredients, except salt, into the Vitamix container in the order listed and secure lid

• Select Frozen Desserts program

• Press start

• Allow machine to complete programmed cycle, using the tamper to press the ingredients into the blades

NOTE: It takes 5 minutes to prepare this recipe and it makes 3 3/4 cups which is great for a solo nibble or for a small gathering. As we're hummus fans, we always like to shake it up. In this version, once we made it, we added a little more olive oil, pine nuts, sliced red peppers and crushed red pepper. This added a bit of a zest to our recipe - but there are a number of items that work well with this recipe. In addition, it can be served with crackers, mini pitas (shown here) and so much more. 

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Zoku + Vitamix

Read more from the April Issue

The Art of the Snack, Chobani

A PERFECT PICK ME UP

Greek Yogurt has been a must have whether you’re eating it alone or putting it into a number of recipes. The team at Chobani opened Chobani Soho a few years ago to focus on Sweet and Savory Creations that keeps this dairy brand at the forefront of your tastebuds. If you’re not able to visit their NYC location, you can make them anytime at home.

PISTACHIO + CHOCOLATE

1/2 cup Plain Chobani
2 tsp Pistachios
2 tsp Dark Chocolate
2 tsp Orange
1/2 tbsp Clover Honey
1 tsp Fresh Mint, Chopped

TOMATO + OLIVE TAPENADE SIMIT

Turkish Simit, Plain Labne
Olive Tapenade
Tomato Slices
Arugula

SMOKED SALMON + DILL

1/2 cup Plain Chobani
1 1/2 tbsp Smoked Salmon
1 spritz Lemon Juice
2 tsp Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
1 pinch Salt + Pepper
1 pinch Fresh Dill
8 pieces Bagel Chips

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Chobani