Think of the ripple effect that can be created when we nourish someone. One kind empathetic word has a wonderful way of turning into many.
–Mr. Rogers
Think of the ripple effect that can be created when we nourish someone. One kind empathetic word has a wonderful way of turning into many.
–Mr. Rogers
Finally getting around to blogging about this creation after a really busy Easter weekend! We had a random spring blizzard that came through Minnesota last week with non-stop snow from noon until 10pm at our house, white out conditions and a sudden craving for something warm and comforting. Since we were getting ready to head out of town I decided to make something out of what I had on hand and needed to be used. This might be one of my favorite recipes in a while – packed with nutrients, flavor and easy to make. It reheats really well – I’m having it for lunch today and it still tastes great 5 days later. Low glycemic, dairy free, grain free, gluten free – YAHOO!
Carrot Cilantro Bisque
Start by boiling the carrots and onion in the 4 cups water, stirring occasionally. The water boils down, but the heat still softens the vegetables. Once they’re mushy use an immersion blender in the pot to puree them, I still had some chunks but that’s okay because once you add the coconut milk there is more liquid to blend with. Add the 2 cans full fat coconut milk and 1 tsp ground ginger, stirring until the coconut milk fat melts. Add the bunch of cilantro (I used the entire bunch stems and all, just tearing by hand directly into the pot). Blend again with the immersion blender so the cilantro is fine and any remaining chunks of carrot and onion are pureed. Season with salt and pepper (I usually go lighter with the Himalayan salt as it is saltier in taste) and the 3 TBSP of minced garlic and stir. Let simmer for 10-15 minutes and serve.
A note about the garlic: I added it toward the end because I wanted a really good garlic flavor, without it getting mushy. You know when garlic is cooked, but not overcooked? It was like that, just enough time so that it wasn’t overpowering/bitter but still firm.![IMG_7430[1]](https://livinglikelinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/img_74301.jpg?w=584)
![IMG_7432[1]](https://livinglikelinds.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/img_74321.jpg?w=584)
I am always making some sort of dish with riced cauliflower. I know Trader Joe’s has it back in stock now (so popular it disappeared quick and they couldn’t keep up with demand), but we don’t have a TJ’s conveniently close to us so for the most part I buy Green Giant Cauliflower Bits from Super Target. The only ingredient is cauliflower, and they seem to have a steady supply of it. Each time I go I buy 3-4 bags. Cauli is one of the most versatile vegetables out there and full of nutrients.
One of the simplest things you can do with it is steam it, mash it and add whatever ingredients you choose for a “mashed potato” texture and varying flavors. The Green Giant bags can be steamed right in the microwave if you want in about 4 minutes. I recently made a garlic and gouda cauli mash, and then added ham to the leftovers the next day and it was like a creamy ham and cheese casserole!
Garlic and Gouda Cauli Mash
Steam cauli bits in the microwave for about 5 minutes, remove and mash in a bowl. Add rosemary leaves, garlic powder, gouda and generously season with salt and pepper. Continue mashing until all ingredients are incorporated. Feel free to microwave again if the gouda isn’t melting quite enough.
So Good!
Understanding love is one of the hardest things in the world.
–Mister Rogers
All I can say is, it’s worth the struggle to discover who you really are and how you, in your own way, can put life together as something that means a lot to you. It’s a miracle when you finally discover whom you’re best equipped to serve-and we’re all equipped to serve in some way.
–Mister Rogers