"Pure Food" is Pure Food Genius

 

I can’t even handle how amazing this cookbook is. First of all, it is ingeniously divided by month, not type of recipe (soups, meat, etc.). I cannot stress how great this is as someone who never knows what is in season. I believe in using produce that flourishes in its own time of the year, because it just seems smart. Plus, these recipes complement each other well so I’m not stuck trying to figure out what to cook them with.  Veronica (I feel like we are on first name basis now because her life stories are imprinted into every recipe) includes something for every type of meal (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks) and it is incredible. These recipes are simple so that anyone can make them but are made with whole foods, so you’re not eating anything processed. Amazing! I love it!

Want to know what I’m eating for dinner today? Parsnip and Thyme Soup (214). Sounds gross, but I swear it’s delicious. For breakfast I had Lemon Ricotta Pancakes (17), a delicate and light dish, but high protein so you’re not hungry until lunchtime. Last night I snacked on some Raw Chocolate Chip Cookies (43) and felt deeply satisfied, wherein eating a box full of chocolate chip cookies are only what used to satisfy me. I’ve also tried Winter Garlic and Vegetable Stew (21), Roasted Root Vegetables with Honey Sauce (20), Coconut Cranberry Porridge (16),  Cream of Celery Soup (197) (a favorite),  and Roasted Hazelnut Granola (210). This shit is amazing, I’m not even kidding. I have a problem eating vegetables; my palate just won’t have it. I like processed, easy foods that just slide right down, so eating healthy is a challenge for me. The way she cooks her food is so simple but it makes it amaze-balls tasty. You will be doing yourself a favor if you buy this book. I don’t ever rave this much about anything I have reviewed so far (check and see!), so you have to know it’s good.

From the back of the book: “Veronica Bosgraaf is the founder of the Pure Bar of organic, all-natural, gluten-free fruit and nut bars and fruit snacks. Passionate about making it easier to eat real foods, Veronica is dedicated to sharing her journey, questioning food culture, and providing ideas and choices that help families live a healthier lifestyle. She lives in Michigan with her husband and three children.” And she’s gorgeous to boot! I’d hate her but I love her cooking too much.

I'll have what she's having.

 

 

Source: I received a copy of this book from Blogging for Books in exchange for an honest review.

"A Good Food Day" by Marco Canora

   This recipe book was an enjoyable experience for me. In the introduction, Marco describes how he used to eat when working full-time with long hours. Contrary to my assumptions (he is a chef), he ate lots of terribly unhealthy foods and eventually became so sick that his doctor had to intervene. Once placed on a restricted healthy diet, he was afraid that he'd be forced to eat tasteless foods while pining for the rich, gourmet foods he once enjoyed. He managed to use his skills and knowledge of food to create simple and delicious foods that are also great for your health.
   On the back cover the question is asked: "What is a good food day? A day when feeling well and eating well go hand in hand". This is completely possible using the recipes outlined in this book. The chapters include breakfast, salads, veggies, beans/lentils, grains, fish, meat & poultry, snacks, and sweets, leaving no meal left behind. My favorite smoothie recipe is on page 27, the Dark Berry Shake, is absolutely delicious and healthy with no added sugars. I drink it everyday! Also, the Japanese-inspired soup on page 206 is fantastic, so light and tasty and has been a huge asset in helping me lose weight. I was also very excited to see on page 213 Marco teaches us to make Flavor Pounded chicken, something I have never tried before, and now use every time we eat chicken.
I highly recommend this recipe book if you are serious about eating less manufactured foods and don't mind buying a few special ingredients in order to enhance the flavor of your daily food.


Source: I received a copy of this book from Blogging for Books in exchange for an honest review.