This is phenomenal and makes a beautiful light meal packed with flavour. We crisp firm tofu and mushrooms in our air fryer, add them to an aromatic umami broth, and serve with pink pickled radish – wonderfully tasty!
Takes 30 minutesminutes
Serves 4
Ingredients
Broth ingredients
1tbspdried seaweed(chopped finely)
1bunchscallions
50gradish stalks (celery works too)
1onion
2cloves garlic
1/2thumb-size ginger
1tbspsesame oil
1star anise pod
2cinnamon sticks
1red chilli
2Lveg stock
1tbspmiso
3tbsptamari
8gdried mushroom (porcini or shiitake)
15gcoriander
300gnoodles of choice
Crispy Mushroom and Tofu
200gfirm tofu
30goyster mushroom
2tbsptamari
1tbspcoconut sugar
1tspmiren
To serve
2tbspsesame seeds
5fresh radish pickled
30mlvinegar
Instructions
Pickle the radish:Finely slice the radishes and place them in a glass jar with the vinegar. Cover with water. If you have any brine from pickled red cabbage, add it to give the radishes a beautiful pink hue. Leave to pickle while you prepare the rest.
Prepare the broth:Peel and finely dice the onion and garlic. Chop the white part of the scallions, and finely dice the ginger and ½ of the red chilli. Heat a large pot (approx. 5L) over high heat, add the sesame oil, and once hot, add the diced onion, ginger, chilli, and the white part of the scallions along with the seaweed and a pinch of salt. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly. If it starts to stick, add a couple of tablespoons of vegetable stock to deglaze the pan and form a base sauce.Finely dice the coriander stalks and add them to the pot. Then, add the vegetable stock, cinnamon sticks, star anise, tamari, and miso, and stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
Make the crispy tofu and mushrooms:Finely slice the mushrooms lengthwise (approx. ½ cm thick) and cut the tofu into 1–2 cm cubes. Preheat your air fryer to 180°C on the bake function for 10 minutes. Add the tofu and mushrooms to the air fryer with 5 sprays of oil (approx. ½ tsp), mix well, and bake for 10 minutes. During baking, shake the air fryer basket once or twice to ensure even cooking.In a large bowl, mix 2 tbsp tamari, coconut sugar or brown sugar, and mirin or vinegar. Remove the tofu and mushrooms from the air fryer, add them to the bowl with the sauce, and toss to coat. Return them to the air fryer for another 5 minutes to crisp up. Remove and set aside.
Cook the noodles:Cook the noodles according to the package instructions. Drain and rinse them to prevent sticking.
Prepare garnishes:Finely dice the coriander leaves, the remaining ½ chilli, and the green parts of the scallions.
To serve:Divide the cooked noodles between 4 bowls. Pour the broth over the noodles, then add the crispy tofu and mushrooms. Top with the chopped scallions, coriander leaves, sliced chilli, sesame seeds, and pickled radishes. Enjoy!
We’ve never tried traditional pastrami but always loved the idea of a classic New York deli sandwich! This plant-based version is epic – the beetroot marinade works perfectly.
Takes 25 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
400gtofu
Marinade
1small beetroot (raw or vacuum packed)
250mlveg stock
2tbspapple cider vinegar
3tbsptamari
1tbspdijon mustard
1/2tspblack pepper
1tspground coriander
1tspsmoked paprika
1tspgarlic powder
To serve
4slicessourdough
10gherkins
2tbspdijon mustard
4tbspvegan mayo
4slicesvegan cheese
60gkimchi
Instructions
Prepare the tofu:Press the tofu to remove excess water. Using a mandolin or sharp knife, slice the tofu into thin strips, approx. ½ cm thick or thinner.
Make the marinade:Blend all the marinade ingredients (beetroot, vegetable stock, apple cider vinegar, tamari, Dijon mustard, black pepper, ground coriander, smoked paprika, and garlic powder) in a blender or food processor until smooth.
Marinate the tofu:Place the sliced tofu in a large baking tray or wide container. Pour the marinade over the tofu, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Leave to marinate for 20 minutes, flipping the tofu halfway through to ensure both sides are covered.
Preheat the oven:Preheat the oven to 200°C (fan-assisted).
Bake the tofu:Transfer the marinated tofu to a clean baking tray. Optionally, spray the tofu with a little oil to encourage a charred, crispy texture. Bake for 10 minutes on each side, or until the tofu looks dry and resembles pastrami. Remove from the oven.
Toast the bread:While the tofu bakes, toast the slices of sourdough bread until golden brown.
Assemble the sandwiches:To make one sandwich, spread a generous dollop of vegan mayo on one slice of bread. Add 5 gherkins, half the tofu "pastrami", 30g kimchi, a slice of vegan cheese, and a thin layer of Dijon mustard on the other slice of bread.Optional: If you prefer melted cheese, assemble the sandwich without the top slice, place it in the oven, and bake for 5 minutes until the cheese melts. Add the top slice after baking.
Serve:Repeat the assembly process for the second sandwich. Serve immediately and enjoy!
In this week’s captivating episode, we delve into the fascinating world of sustainable farming with author and co-founder of Black Barn Farm, Jade Miles.
Episode 135
Black Barn Farm, is a biodiverse orchard, nursery and workshop space in north east Victoria which is a magnet for visitors to learn about permaculture, homesteading, as well as to pick-their-own from some of the 98 varieties of heritage fruit and berries.
Jade’s journey from urban living to becoming a passionate advocate for regenerative agriculture is a true inspiration. A renowned sustainable farmer and environmental activist, with a background in ecology and a deep love for the earth, Jade, alongside her partner Charles Showers, embarked on a life-changing adventure to establish Black Barn Farm, a thriving hub for regenerative farming practices. Her commitment to ethical and sustainable agriculture has earned her recognition in the field.
Jade is part of a growing wave of women keen to arm themselves with skills like farming, composting, making and mending, and pickling and preserving. Just as the Covid-19 lockdown and its closure of supermarkets and limited food supplies were a call to arms for amateur sourdough bakers, Miles and her cohort were inspired by impending climate change, like the 2020 summer bushfires, to become more self-sufficient and less reliant on material and consumer culture.
Join us for an enlightening conversation with Jade Miles, as we uncover the secrets of sustainable farming and its vital role in creating a healthier planet.
Lots of Love,
Dave & Steve
This episode is sponsored by Vivobarefoot Footwear. Vivobarefoot Footwear have given our listeners an exclusive 15% discount when you enter the code HAPPYPEAR15
Genuinely these are the only shoes you will see Dave & Steve wearing!
Produced by Sean Cahill & Sara Fawsitt
Available now from all good podcast providers:
Buttery Hummus
This is insanely smooth and so easy to make – it really does feel like you've got top-quality hummus from the streets of Lebanon. With just a few small changes, you can create an incredibly smooth and tasty hummus. One of the keys is to use butter beans instead of chickpeas, as they are creamier and more buttery than chickpeas.
Takes 14 minutesminutes
Serves
Ingredients
2tinsbutterbeans (500g nett weight)
1/2tspbaking soda
1lemon
2garlic cloves
1tspsalt
4ice cubes
6tbsptahini
5-6tbspwater
2tbspolive oil
To serve
1ripe tomato
10gfresh coriander
30gpickled red cabbage
1/2tspsumac(Korean chilli powder)
2tbspolive oil
4slicessourdough toast
Instructions
Prepare the beansDrain and rinse the butter beans, then add them to a saucepan with the baking soda. Cover with freshly boiled water and boil for 5 minutes.
Rinse and peelDrain and rinse the beans under cold water. Do your best to remove as many of the butter bean skins as possible. The easiest way to do this is to squeeze the cooked beans gently, and the beans will pop out of their skins. Although this step isn’t essential, it helps achieve a super creamy texture.
Blend the hummusAdd the peeled butter beans to a food processor along with the garlic, juice of ½ a lemon, tahini, ice cubes, 1 tsp salt, and 5 tbsp water. Blend for 2-3 minutes while slowly adding the olive oil. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed by adding more salt, lemon juice, or garlic. If the mixture is too thick, add 1-2 tbsp more water.
Taste and adjustTo achieve incredible hummus, taste it regularly during the process and don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your liking. If it tastes flat or bland, add a little more salt. If it's too thick or stodgy, add more lemon juice. For a stronger base flavour, add ½ clove of garlic and ensure it's fully blended in.
Blend to perfectionBlend for an additional 3-4 minutes until the hummus is super silky, smooth, and buttery. Taste and make any final adjustments. Pour the hummus onto a plate.
Prepare the garnishFinely dice the tomato, pickled red cabbage, and coriander, and mix them together. Spread the hummus out on the plate, creating a well in the centre for the tomato, cabbage, and coriander mix. Sprinkle with sumac or chilli powder and drizzle with 1-2 tbsp of olive oil.
ServeEnjoy with some fresh sourdough bread or toast.
Super easy to make, these delicious, healthier treats are sure to be a hit! The combination of raspberry and chocolate is a winning duo.
Takes 13 minutesminutes
Serves 6
Ingredients
6tbspoats
80gcashews
100gchopped dates
2tbspcoconut oil
Filling
150graspberries
2tbspchia seeds
1tbspmaple syrup
Top layer
150gchocolate
Instructions
Prepare the Base:In a food processor or blender, add the cashews, dates, oats, and coconut oil. Blend for about 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture begins to come together into a sticky, cohesive mass.
Line the Cupcake Tin:Line a 6-cup cupcake tin with cupcake liners. Divide the oat-cashew-date mixture evenly between the 6 cases, pressing it firmly to create the base layer. Shape the mixture up the sides slightly to form a cup, ensuring it’s thick enough to hold the filling without leaking.
Make the Raspberry Filling:In a bowl, combine the raspberries, chia seeds, and maple syrup. Use a fork to roughly mash the mixture, leaving some texture.
Fill the Cups:Spoon the raspberry filling into each of the 6 cups, filling them just to the top of the cashew base. Ensure the filling doesn’t overflow so it can be easily capped with chocolate.
Melt the Chocolate:Melt the chocolate in a microwave or over a double boiler. Once melted, evenly pour it over the top of each cup, ensuring the filling is fully covered.
Set the Cups:Allow the chocolate to set. If you're in a hurry, place the cups in the fridge or freezer to speed up the process. Once the chocolate has hardened, they are ready to enjoy!
Welcome to another illuminating episode! In this engaging discussion, we’re joined by Rohini Bajekal, a highly regarded plant-based nutritionist, to explore the multifaceted realm of women’s health.
Together, we delve into the profound impact of plant-based nutrition on women’s well-being, touching on various aspects of women’s health, including managing conditions like PCOS and navigating the transformative journey of menopause.
Episode 134
Rohini’s expertise shines as we uncover the science-backed benefits of a balanced, plant-based diet, offering insights into its potential to manage and alleviate symptoms associated with conditions such as PCOS. We also explore how nutrition plays a pivotal role in promoting overall health and vitality throughout a woman’s life. And how Rohini herself navigated herself through the nutrition space as a plant-based practitioner.
Beyond nutrition, Rohini shares her valuable involvement in The Happy Pear’s Menopause Course, a comprehensive resource designed to empower women with knowledge and practical tools to optimise their health. This course encompass a wide spectrum of topics, from hormonal balance to mental well-being, embracing a holistic approach to women’s health.
Whether you’re interested in understanding the role of nutrition in women’s health, seeking guidance on managing specific conditions, or simply looking to enhance your overall well-being, this episode offers a wealth of wisdom and inspiration.
This episode is sponsored by Air Up. This revolutionary water bottle that will blow your mind and get you drinking tons more water, have given our listeners an exclusive 10% discount when you enter the code HAPPY10
Lots of Love,
Dave & Steve
Produced by Sean Cahill & Sara Fawsitt
Available now from all good podcast providers:
The Happy Pear Podcast
In this week’s episode we delve into the fascinating world of “Why Woo Woo Works” with the esteemed Dr. David Hamilton.
Episode 133
Dr. David Hamilton, a distinguished author and a holder of a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, brings a unique blend of scientific expertise and spiritual wisdom to our discussion. With a rich background in the pharmaceutical industry and a profound understanding of the mind-body connection, Dr. Hamilton has become a leading authority in bridging the gap between science and spirituality.
In this episode, we explore the profound implications of “woo-woo” concepts, going beyond their mystical reputation to uncover the scientific principles that underlie them. Dr. Hamilton sheds light on the incredible influence of our thoughts and intentions on our overall health and well-being, drawing from his extensive knowledge in quantum physics and consciousness.
Join us on a journey of self-discovery and empowerment as we learn practical strategies for harnessing the power of our minds. Dr. Hamilton’s insights will inspire you to tap into your own “woo-woo” potential, combining spirituality and science to create a more fulfilling life.
Discover why “Why Woo Woo Works” is more than just a catchphrase and how you can integrate its principles into your everyday life.
This episode is sponsored by Air Up. This revolutionary water bottle that will blow your mind and get you drinking tons more water, have given our listeners an exclusive 10% discount when you enter the code HAPPY10
Lots of Love,
Dave & Steve
Produced by Sean Cahill & Sara Fawsitt
Available now from all good podcast providers:
The Happy Pear Podcast
Get ready to be inspired by the incredible journey of Matt Smith, a true sustainability trailblazer and the dynamic CEO of Hometree Charity. Matt’s passion for positive change is matched only by his impressive credentials. Armed with a foundation degree in Natural Science, he’s not only well-versed in environmental matters but also deeply committed to making a difference.
Episode 132
In 2013, Matt co-founded a regenerative agriculture farm, showcasing his innovative spirit and dedication to nurturing the Earth. But that’s not all—his love for the oceans led him to own an annual ocean-based publication, a celebration of marine wonder that resonates with his adventurous spirit.
A published writer in his own right, Matt’s words have powerfully conveyed the essence of sustainability, eco-consciousness, and unity with nature. His writing serves as a roadmap for those seeking a greener path forward.
Matt recently completed a ‘critical leadership’ course with Cumbria University, guided by the eminent Prof Jem Bendell. This reflects his unyielding commitment to personal growth and effective leadership, adding an exciting dimension to his already impressive repertoire.
Join us in this week’s episode as we uncover the vibrant tapestry of Matt’s life, from regenerative farming to oceanic appreciation, and his pivotal role in steering Hometree Charity towards a brighter, more sustainable future. Tune in and let Matt’s uplifting journey ignite your own drive to create positive change!
Lots of Love,
Dave & Steve
This episode is sponsored by Vivobarefoot Footwear. Vivobarefoot Footwear have given our listeners an exclusive 15% discount when you enter the code HAPPYPEAR15
Genuinely these are the only shoes you will see Dave & Steve wearing!
Produced by Sean Cahill & Sara Fawsitt
Available now from all good podcast providers:
The Happy Pear Podcast
Get ready for an insightful episode as we speak with renowned neuroscientist and bestselling author, Dr. Caroline Leaf!
Dr. Caroline Leaf’s credentials as a world-leading cognitive neuroscientist and communication pathologist, with a Ph.D. in Communication Pathology specialising in Neuropsychology, set the stage for a truly captivating discussion. With her wealth of experience and expertise, Dr. Leaf has garnered international acclaim for her groundbreaking research on the mind-brain connection and her compassionate approach to mental well-being.
In this candid and compassionate episode, Dr. Leaf opens up about the profound impact of mental health on our lives and the lives of our loved ones. She addresses the pressing issue of depression, debunking common myths and shedding light on how it affects individuals of all ages.
Using her expertise and extensive research, Dr. Caroline Leaf shares valuable insights on how we can proactively manage and improve our mental well-being. She empowers listeners with practical tools and techniques to recognise the signs of mental distress, fostering a greater sense of self-awareness and emotional intelligence.
Throughout the episode, Dr. Leaf’s compassionate approach shines through as she emphasises the power of self-acceptance and the value of seeking professional help when needed. Her insights on building resilience and nurturing positive thought patterns offer hope and encouragement to anyone struggling with mental health concerns.
While Dr. Caroline Leaf briefly mentions her forthcoming book on helping children with their mental mess, the focus of this episode remains on the broader topic of mental health and depression. An insightful episode we hope you got as much out of it as we did.
Lots of Love,
Dave & Steve
This episode is sponsored by Air Up. This revolutionary water bottle that will blow your mind and get you drinking tons more water, have given our listeners an exclusive 10% discount when you enter the code HAPPYPEAR10
Produced by Sean Cahill & Sara Fawsitt
Available now from all good podcast providers:
Chocolate raspberry no bake cups
Super easy to make, these delicious, healthier treats are sure to be a hit! The combination of raspberry and chocolate is a winning duo.
Takes 13 minutesminutes
Serves 6
Ingredients
6tbspoats
80gcashews
100gchopped dates
2tbspcoconut oil
Filling
150graspberries
2tbspchia seeds
1tbspmaple syrup
Top layer
150gchocolate
Instructions
Prepare the Base:In a food processor or blender, add the cashews, dates, oats, and coconut oil. Blend for about 2-3 minutes, or until the mixture begins to come together into a sticky, cohesive mass.
Line the Cupcake Tin:Line a 6-cup cupcake tin with cupcake liners. Divide the oat-cashew-date mixture evenly between the 6 cases, pressing it firmly to create the base layer. Shape the mixture up the sides slightly to form a cup, ensuring it’s thick enough to hold the filling without leaking.
Make the Raspberry Filling:In a bowl, combine the raspberries, chia seeds, and maple syrup. Use a fork to roughly mash the mixture, leaving some texture.
Fill the Cups:Spoon the raspberry filling into each of the 6 cups, filling them just to the top of the cashew base. Ensure the filling doesn’t overflow so it can be easily capped with chocolate.
Melt the Chocolate:Melt the chocolate in a microwave or over a double boiler. Once melted, evenly pour it over the top of each cup, ensuring the filling is fully covered.
Set the Cups:Allow the chocolate to set. If you're in a hurry, place the cups in the fridge or freezer to speed up the process. Once the chocolate has hardened, they are ready to enjoy!
In our latest, meet Tom Turcich, the man who transformed his dream into reality by dedicating over half his life to an extraordinary mission. From the age of seventeen to thirty-three, Tom embarked on a single-minded adventure, walking around the world.
Episode 130
On May 21st, 2022, he achieved the unimaginable, becoming the tenth person ever to complete this monumental feat!
Tom, shares his inspiring story, and the essence of his remarkable journey. Experience the highs and lows, the friendships formed, and the boundless beauty of our planet, all encountered one step at a time.
With infectious enthusiasm and genuine humility, Tom’s world walk reminds us that audacious dreams are attainable with unwavering determination. Get ready to be inspired and uplifted as you explore the world through Tom Turcich’s extraordinary adventure.
Lots of Love,
Dave & Steve
This episode is sponsored by Air Up. This revolutionary water bottle that will blow your mind and get you drinking tons more water, have given our listeners an exclusive 10% discount when you enter the code HAPPYPEAR10
Produced by Sean Cahill & Sara Fawsitt
Available now from all good podcast providers:
Courgette Fritters with a red pepper pickle sauce and tahini cream
These are easy to make and very tasty. The red pepper pickle provides a lovely acidity to cut through the tahini cream, giving a beautifully balanced meal. Serve with some sauerkraut or a little avocado. The dip makes a wonderful condiment that will last a week in the fridge.
Takes 20 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
260gcourgettes
½red chilli
½bunch of scallions (or spring onions)
240gof tinned butter beans
small bunch of fresh mint or coriander(10g)
Juice of ½ lemon
2tsplemon zest
4tbspregular flour(or chickpea flour)
½tspsalt
½tspblack pepper
Roasted red pepper pickle sauce
1340gjar of roasted red pepper (220g drained weight in brine not oil)
4tbsp brine(from the roasted red pepper jar)
Pinchof salt
Tahini cream
150gnatural soy yoghurt
2tbsplight tahini
Pinchof salf
Instructions
Prepare the courgettes:Grate the courgettes into a colander, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and squeeze with your hands for about 30 seconds. Let them sit in the colander for 5-10 minutes to drain excess moisture.
Chop the vegetables:While the courgettes are draining, finely chop the chilli (remove the seeds if you don’t like it too spicy) and the greens of the scallions (spring onions). Drain and rinse the butter beans, and finely chop the mint or coriander leaves.
Prepare the fritter mix:After letting the courgettes sit for at least 5 minutes, squeeze out as much liquid as possible and discard it. Place the drained courgettes in a large bowl.
Combine ingredients:Add the chopped chilli, scallions, butter beans, mint or coriander, lemon juice, lemon zest, flour, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Mash the ingredients together using a potato masher or a fork until well combined.
Form the fritters:Take approximately 2 tablespoons of the mixture and shape it into small fritters (disk shapes) using your hands.
Cook the fritters:Heat a non-stick pan on high heat. Once the pan is hot, add ½ tsp of oil and spread it around. Gently wipe away the excess oil using kitchen paper to leave a light coating. Add the fritters to the pan and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Repeat until all the fritters are cooked.
Make the red pepper pickle sauce:Remove the roasted red peppers from the jar, reserving the brine. Place the roasted peppers (without the brine) in a blender, add 4 tbsp of the brine, and a pinch of salt. Blend until super smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or maple syrup if needed, keeping in mind that the sauce should be sharp and acidic.
Make the tahini cream:In a small bowl, mix the soy yoghurt, tahini, and a pinch of salt until smooth.
Serve:Divide the tahini cream between two plates. Place the fritters on top of the tahini cream and drizzle over the red pepper pickle sauce. Serve with some sauerkraut or avocado if desired. Enjoy!
Bakewell tart is one of our favourite summer treats! Mum used to buy almond fingers when we were kids, and they were always devoured – these are a fancier version. We recommend baking this pie in a 30-40cm pie dish or a brownie tray approximately 20x30cm.
Takes 40 minutesminutes
Serves 10
Ingredients
1x 320gsheet pre rolled vegan shortcrust(or puff pastry)
200graspberry jam
Frangipane
200gground almonds
175mlmaple syrup (or agave syrup)
125gself raising flour
1tspalmond essence
150gplant based butter
8tablespoonswater
Pinchof salt
Optional
25gflaked almonds
75gfresh raspberries
Ice cream to serve
Instructions
Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C, fan-assisted.
Prepare the pastry: If using frozen pastry, allow it to defrost. Roll out the pastry and line a 25 x 18cm (3.5cm deep) tray with parchment paper. Transfer the pastry to the tray and trim it to fit.
Blind bake the pastry: To blind bake, line the pastry with another sheet of parchment paper and fill with baking beans. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove the beans and paper. Return the pastry to the oven for 5 more minutes to cook the base. Remove and allow to cool.
Reduce the oven temperature: Lower the oven temperature to 150°C.
Make the frangipane: While the pastry is blind baking, prepare the frangipane. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground almonds, a pinch of salt, and sieve in the self-raising flour. Mix until well combined. In a separate bowl, melt the plant-based butter and mix in the maple syrup or agave syrup, almond essence, and 8 tablespoons of water. Combine the wet and dry ingredients until a smooth batter forms.
Assemble the pie: Spread the raspberry jam evenly over the pastry, leaving approximately a 1-2 cm border around the edge. Pour the almond mixture (frangipane) over the jam, spreading it evenly. If using, dot the fresh raspberries over the frangipane and press them in gently. Scatter flaked almonds on top.
Bake the pie: Bake for 30 minutes, rotating halfway through to ensure even browning. Insert a skewer into the centre; it should come out almost dry when the pie is ready.
Cool and serve: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool fully in the tray before slicing. For a classic Bakewell presentation, cut the pie into fingers (approximately 3 x 12 cm) or your preferred size. Serve with ice cream, if desired, and enjoy!
Josh Whiton is a regenerative technologist working to repair the Planet and our relationship to it.
At the age of 23, he founded a tech-startup that improved public transit usage, reduced car dependency, and created jobs while reducing fossil fuel emissions and the carbon footprint of millions. It was later acquired by the Ford Motor Company and became Ford Smart Mobility.
Episode 129
For his positive contributions to society and the environment, Josh was named Champion of Change by the Obama administration. He was also awarded a Global Impact Visa by the New Zealand government, and his work has been highlighted by Fast Company magazine as among the world’s most innovative.
One of his latest initiatives is helping communities worldwide to establish a more beautiful food system by creating new living soil together. Now in 70+ countries and growing, people can participate in creating a more sustainable, resilient, and distributed food system at MakeSoil.org. Josh also co-founded one of the first urban farms in the southeastern United States. Still in operation today, the urban farm helps thousands of people each year to participate in and benefit from local food production.
Josh is an avid writer, speaker, and builder of technology, and continues to explore the implications of technology on humanity and nature. He also shares original and compelling insights about the nature of artificial intelligence on Substack.
In his episode we had the pleasure of hosting Josh in person, the conversation was so good we actually had to stop and record it in two parts! This part one we delve deep into what it is to be an entrepreneur, Josh’s fascinating back story, religion, soil and so much more!
Lots of Love,
Dave & Steve
This episode is sponsored by Vivobarefoot Footwear. Vivobarefoot Footwear have given our listeners an exclusive 15% discount when you enter the code HAPPYPEAR15
Genuinely these are the only shoes you will see Dave & Steve wearing!
Produced by Sean Cahill & Sara Fawsitt
Available now from all good podcast providers:
Crispy cauliflower Bang Bang burritos
Light, crispy, and refreshing, these burritos make a beautiful lunch. We fried the cauliflower for a more indulgent version, but you can bake it in the oven or air fryer for a healthier option. The extra sauce works wonderfully as a dip.
Takes 30 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
Batter
8tbspflour
1tbspsmoked paprika
100mloat milk
pinchsalt
Sauce
4tbsptahini
1/4tsp black pepper
1tbsp apple cider vinegar
2cmginger
1clovegarlic
1/2red chilli
2tbsptamari
2tbspmaple syrup
3tbsptomato paste
5tbspwater
pinch salt
Breading
100gpanko bread crumbs
Other ingredients
1headcauliflower
150mlsunflower oil(for frying)
1/2cucumber
1/4red onion
250gkidney beans
2tbspapple cider vinegar
1tspcumin
pinchsalt
1avocado
10cherry tomatoes
15gfresh coriander
1/2lemon
2wraps
Instructions
Blanch the cauliflower: Fill and boil the kettle. In a medium-sized saucepan, add the boiled water and a generous pinch of salt. Drop in the cauliflower florets and blanch for 5-6 minutes until ¾ cooked. Drain and leave to cool.
Make the sauce: In a tall glass or jar, mix all the sauce ingredients—ginger, garlic, diced red chilli, tahini, black pepper, apple cider vinegar, tamari, maple syrup, tomato paste, water, and a pinch of salt.
Prepare the batter: In a wide bowl, mix together the flour, smoked paprika, oat milk, and a pinch of salt. Stir in half of the sauce to form a smooth batter.
Prepare the breading: In another wide bowl, place the panko bread crumbs.
Set up the assembly line: Arrange the blanched cauliflower, batter, and breadcrumbs in a line. Have a plate with paper towels ready to place the fried cauliflower on.
Fry the cauliflower: Heat the sunflower oil in a medium-sized saucepan on high heat. Once hot, reduce to medium heat. In small batches, dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, then coat with the breadcrumbs. Fry for 2-3 minutes, turning regularly, until golden. Transfer to a paper towel to absorb excess oil. Alternatively, bake at 180°C for 15 minutes.
Make the bean salad: In a large bowl, combine the diced cucumber, diced red onion, kidney beans, apple cider vinegar, cumin, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
Prepare the guacamole: Remove the seed and skin of the avocado and chop the flesh. Add to a bowl with the cherry tomatoes, fresh coriander, a pinch of salt, a pinch of black pepper, and the juice of half a lemon. Mash together with a fork.
Assemble the burritos: Take a wrap and add a few spoonfuls of guacamole, bean salad, and 2-3 cauliflower florets. Drizzle with two spoonfuls of the extra sauce. Wrap the burrito and enjoy! Repeat with the remaining ingredients for the second burrito.
This is a cracking recipe that will fool even the most carnivorous of your friends. It’s packed with flavour and a great way to use some summer veg in this delicious slaw. You will need a tin of jackfruit which is readily available in Asian stores or online.
Takes 20 minutesminutes
Serves 3
Ingredients
1x 400g tin of jackfruit
¼portion of vegan coleslaw(see recipe below)
BBQ sauce
2tbspsmoked paprika
3clovesof garlic(crushed)
4tbsptamari (soya sauce)
2tbsptomato puree
2tbspcider vinegar
2tbspoil
2tbspmaple syrup (agave syrup)
½tspchilli powder(optional)
For the coleslaw
250gkohlrabi(red cabbage)
1medium carrot
⅓red onion
1apple
100gvegan mayo
15gof fresh flat leaf parsley(coriander)
To serve
Vegan mayo
Pickled red onions
Handful of fresh rocket leaves
4-6brioche burger buns
1ripe avocado
Instructions
Prepare the Jackfruit:Using a sharp knife, shred the jackfruit into thin strips (easiest to use your hands). Transfer to a colander, rinse under cold water, and squeeze it to dry out, so it fries better.
Make the BBQ Sauce:Put all the ingredients for the BBQ sauce into a bowl and mix well using a fork. Add the jackfruit to the sauce and mix thoroughly to coat (using your hands works best). Leave to marinate while you prepare the slaw.
Prepare the Slaw:Cut the kohlrabi (or red cabbage), carrot, and apple into thin batons (about ½cm x ½cm x 5cm).Slice the red onion into thin, half-moon strips. Finely dice the parsley or coriander.Mix together the kohlrabi, carrot, apple, onion, and parsley in a bowl. Add a pinch of salt, then stir in the vegan mayo. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Cook the Jackfruit:Heat a frying pan over high heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add the marinated jackfruit and fry for 6-8 minutes, stirring regularly until it begins to char around the edges. Remove from the heat.
Prepare the Toppings:Slice the avocado in half, remove the stone, and scoop out the flesh. Slice the avocado into thin slices.
Assemble the Burgers:Toast the burger buns. Spread a generous dollop of vegan mayo on the bottom half of each bun.Add a healthy serving of the 'pulled pork' jackfruit on top of the mayo, followed by a couple of spoonfuls of the slaw.Top with rocket leaves, pickled red onions, and avocado slices. Finish with the top bun.Serve and enjoy!
Get ready to dive into a sea of inspiration and good vibes as we bring you a thrilling episode with the incredible Easkey Britton! A true force of nature, to explore her remarkable journey as an adventurer, big wave global champion surfer, author, scientist, mother and environmental activist.
Episode 128
Easkey Britton is no ordinary surfer; she’s a true pioneer, paving the way for women in the world of big wave riding. With an infectious zest for life and a deep love for the ocean, Easkey has made significant waves both on and off the surfboard. As an environmental scientist and advocate, she utilizes her passion for the ocean to raise awareness about marine conservation and the importance of connecting with nature.
During this episode, we delve into the world of water, it’s diverse and healing nature and it’s interconnectedness with all life. Easkey also shares her thrilling experiences of riding giants and her unyielding pursuit of breaking boundaries in a traditionally male-dominated sport.
Beyond her achievements in the water, Easkey is also an author, and she enlightens us about her latest book, “Ebb & Flow.” This transformative work invites readers on a journey of self-discovery through the lens of nature’s wisdom, exploring the interconnectedness between our internal landscape and the natural world.
Prepare to be captivated by Easkey’s infectious enthusiasm as she talks about her efforts to create positive change in the world, whether it’s through championing gender equality in sports, promoting sustainable practices, or nurturing the relationship between mental health and nature.
A beautiful conversation, which will inspire you to head to your closest body of water and jump in!
Lots of Love,
Dave & Steve
This episode is sponsored by Air Up. This revolutionary water bottle that will blow your mind and get you drinking tons more water, have given our listeners an exclusive 10% discount when you enter the code HAPPYPEAR10
Produced by Sean Cahill & Sara Fawsitt
Available now from all good podcast providers:
Raspberry Ripple pancakes
These pancakes are a delightful twist on fluffy American-style pancakes, with a flavour reminiscent of peanut butter and jelly. We serve them with a drizzle of runny peanut butter and maple syrup for an indulgent treat!
Takes 11 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
120gself raising flour
210ml oat milk(or any milk of choice)
2tbsppeanut butter (or almond butter)
2tbspmaple syrup
Small pinchof salt
½tspvanilla extract
250graspberries
Spray oil
To Serve
Maple syrup
Peanut butter(or almond butter)
Instructions
Prepare the Batter:In a bowl, whisk together the flour, oat milk, peanut butter, maple syrup, salt, and vanilla extract until smooth. Alternatively, use a blender for an extra smooth consistency.
Heat the Pan:Heat a non-stick pan on high heat. Once the pan is hot, reduce to medium heat.
Cook the Pancakes:Lightly spray the pan with oil. Pour a small amount of the batter into the pan to form a pancake.Gently press 5-6 raspberries into the batter on top.
Flip and Cook:Cook the pancake until bubbles form on the surface and the edges begin to dry out, about 2-3 minutes.Flip the pancake and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through.Continue cooking the rest of the batter in batches, stacking the pancakes as you go.
Serve:Drizzle the pancakes with runny peanut butter and maple syrup for a delicious finish. Enjoy!
This week we have the pleasure of hosting our friend, Harrison Gardner, an acclaimed Australian eco builder. Harrison’s expertise in sustainable construction and his passion for plant-based living converge as we explore the intersection between eco-building and embracing a plant-powered lifestyle.
Episode 127
Harrison Gardner’s credentials as an eco builder establish him as a leading authority in sustainable living practices. With a profound commitment to minimizing environmental impact, he has dedicated his career to promoting eco-friendly construction methods and inspiring others to build consciously. As an author, his book “Build Your Own” has become a go-to resource for individuals seeking to create sustainable homes and communities.
Throughout this conversation, we delve into Harrison’s personal journey and the transformative power of eco-building. His experiences and insights inspire us to consider how the spaces we inhabit can align with our values of sustainability and well-being. We explore the principles of eco-building, highlighting the use of renewable materials, energy-efficient designs, and innovative technologies that foster harmony between human habitation and nature.
Within the context of eco-building, Harrison shares his wisdom on the importance of a plant-powered lifestyle. We uncover how conscious choices in our diet and lifestyle can further enhance sustainability efforts and promote holistic well-being. Harrison’s book, “Build Your Own,” serves as a comprehensive guide, illustrating how nutrition and eco-building intertwine to create a harmonious and sustainable future.
Drawing from his extensive knowledge, Harrison dives into the practical aspects of eco-building. We discuss the essential steps involved in constructing eco-friendly homes, from site selection and material sourcing to energy-efficient systems and waste reduction strategies. His expertise shines through as he offers valuable advice on how to navigate the complexities of sustainable construction, empowering individuals to build homes that reflect their values and contribute to a greener world.
Throughout the episode, Harrison shares captivating anecdotes and practical tips from his book, “Build Your Own.” This invaluable resource acts as a roadmap for aspiring eco builders, providing them with the tools and inspiration needed to embark on their own sustainable building projects. From designing with nature in mind to incorporating renewable energy solutions, Harrison’s book serves as a beacon of knowledge for anyone interested in creating a positive impact through eco-building.
Listen to this episode and discover the profound connections between sustainable construction, plant-powered living, and the steps we can take to create a brighter, greener tomorrow.
Lots of Love,
Dave, Steve & The Happy Pear Team
This episode is sponsored by Vivobarefoot Footwear. Vivobarefoot Footwear have given our listeners an exclusive 15% discount when you enter the code HAPPYPEAR15
Genuinely these are the only shoes you will see Dave & Steve wearing!
Produced by Sean Cahill & Sara Fawsitt
Available now from all good podcast providers:
This is so tasty, low in fat and really easy to make. We make 3 components, a lentil curry, a coriander cream and a pickled spicy cucumber, that looks like watermelon to bring a well rounded nourishing meal. Serve with your favourite grain of choice or a wholemeal flatbread. This is a recipe from our Happy Shape course to help you reach your happy shape with Dr Sue Kineally and Dietician Rosie Martin.
Summer lentil Dal with pickle cucumber and coriander cream
This is so tasty, low in fat and really easy to make. We make 3 components, a lentil curry, a coriander cream and a pickled spicy cucumber, that looks like watermelon to bring a well rounded nourishing meal. Serve with your favourite grain of choice or a wholemeal flatbread. This is a recipe from our Happy Shape course to help you reach your happy shape with Dr Sue Kineally and Dietician Rosie Martin.
Takes 30 minutesminutes
Serves 4
Ingredients
1red onion
1/2thumbsizeginger
1/2red chilli
2courgettes
500glentils
400gtinned chopped tomatoes
1.5litrewater
2tbsptamari
1tspground cumin
1tspground turmeric
2tspground coriander
1/3tsp ground cinnamon
1tsp salt
1/4tspblack pepper
Cucumber Pickle
1/4cucumber
1/2red chilli
100mlclear vinegar
1/2fresh beetroot grated
pinchsalt
Coriander Cream
15gfresh coriander
200mlsoy yoghurt
1/2limejuice
pinch salt
Instructions
First step let's make the pickle. Slice the cucumber in half lengthwise and then slice into 1/2 cm slices. Add to a glass along with a pinch of salt and cover with the vinegar. Grate the beetroot and squeeze the juice into the vinegar to colour the pickle. You only want the juice and not the beetroot flesh (you may want to wear a glove here as the beetroot is so high in antioxidants that it will colour your hand). Mix well and leave the pickled to infuse while you make the Dal.
Peel and finely dice the red onion and ginger. Finely dice the ½ chilli leaving the seeds in if you prefer it spicier or removing them if you prefer it less hot. Slice the courgettes into half moon shapes that are approx ½ cm thick
Heat a large saucepan on high heat and once hot add in the onion and ginger and chilli and fry for 4-6 mins until it starts to brown. If it starts to stick, add in 2 tbsp of water to deglaze the pan and incorporate any stuck bits, You may have to do this more than once depending on your pan.
Next add in the sliced courgettes along with the spices (ground coriander, ground cumin, turmeric, cinnamon, salt and pepper) and cook together for 3-4 mins allowing the courgettes to brown slightly.
Add in the tin of chopped tomatoes, lentils, water and the tamari/ soy sauce and mix well. Bring to a boil and continue to cook for 15-20 mins until the lentils are cooked. You will have to stir regularly to avoid the lentils sticking.
While the lentils are cooking make the coriander cream. Finely dice the coriander and add to the yogurt and mix with a pinch of salt and the juice of ½ lime. Mix well and set aside.
Once the lentils are cooked add the juice of ½ a lime to them and season the dish by adding more salt, ground black pepper or lime juice to your liking.To serve, add a generous serving of dal, along with some coriander cream and some pickled on top! Enjoy, this is so tasty!
This is such a treat and worth trying—we felt like inhaling it after making it! It’s a different take on the classic, as it’s plant-based, and instead of ladyfingers or savoiardi, we use a plant-based scone. It sounds crazy, but it works beautifully! The scone is from our Ultimate Vegan Baking course.
Takes 7 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
2shotsespresso
2tbspicing sugar
1tbspbrandy (optional)
200gcream cheese
100mlplant-based cream
4tbspicing sugar
150gvanilla ice cream(plant-based)
2vegan scones
1tbspcocoa powder
Instructions
Prepare 2 x 300 ml clear glasses. Cut the scones in half horizontally (across the middle), then cut each half so they neatly fit into the glasses. You should have 4 scone pieces to layer.
Mix together the espresso, icing sugar, and brandy (if using), then set aside.
In a separate bowl, mix the cream cheese, cream, and icing sugar. Whip until thick and creamy. Taste and add more icing sugar if you want it sweeter.
Take your glasses and place one piece of scone at the bottom. Coat it with the coffee mixture so that the scone is soaked.
Add a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream (approximately 35 ml) on top of the soaked scone and spread it to the edges.
Place the second piece of scone on top and soak it with the coffee mixture. Finally, cover it with the cream cheese mixture, filling the glass to the top.
Oestrogen levels can affect word recall, memory and so called ‘brain fog’ symptoms, and having levels that are both too low or indeed too high in some people can mean the sweet spot is hard to find. For some, HRT helps. Regular physical activity and spending time in nature helps, as well as prioritising sleep, trying out breathwork and meditation and avoiding alcohol. Learning new skills and managing stress are also useful.
Sample Lesson: Menopause 101 – also includes Perimenopause
Women are usually born with two ovaries (egg containing baskets or organs) although one can go through life with no repercussions if there is only one functioning ovary. Each ovary contains a huge number of eggs, in fact thousands which reduce in number over time through a process of natural loss every month. There is no way to increase or reduce this natural loss of eggs. Only a few hundred eggs are used in a woman’s lifetime. After the onset of puberty, the ovary releases an egg most months, a process known as ovulation.
Sample Lesson: What about Calcium?
Calcium is an important mineral for human survival. It is needed, as you probably already know, to keep our bones and teeth strong and healthy. Small amounts of calcium are also required for nerve function, to relax our muscles and for blood clotting.
Before the domestication of dairy cows was commonplace, many human populations evolved without dairy in their diet, consuming all the calcium they required from plants. Due to the artificial selection of sweetness, rather than nutritional content, many of the plant foods we consume today have lower levels of calcium than that of their ancestors.
Sample Lesson: Benefits of Soya in Menopause
A randomised controlled trial showed fantastic results showed Just 1/2 cup or 86 g of mature soya beans providing 55 to 60 g of isoflavones was associated with reduced frequency and severity of hot flushes by 84% and improved quality of life in vasomotor, psychosocial, physical, and sexual symptoms in postmenopausal women when followed for just 12 weeks. The women involved in this study were following a completely plant based diet during this time.
The Happy Pear Podcast
In the latest we sit down with Dr Rupy Aujla in person, founder of The Doctor’s Kitchen, to chat about all things food and health.
Episode 126
Dr Rupy Aujla is not your typical physician – he’s a passionate advocate for the role of food in preventing and managing chronic diseases, and has made it his mission to inspire and empower people to use food as medicine. With a background in general practice and emergency medicine, Dr Rupy has witnessed first-hand the impact of lifestyle choices on health outcomes, and believes that good nutrition is the foundation of good health.
Dr Rupy shares some fascinating insights into the science behind food and health, and offers practical tips on how to incorporate more plant-based foods into your diet. He also talks about his latest book, “Eat to Beat Illness”, which explores the links between diet and disease, and provides evidence-based advice on how to eat for optimal health.
Overall, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of food and health, and is sure to leave you feeling inspired and motivated to make positive changes in your own life. So grab a cup of tea, sit back, and enjoy the conversation!
Lots of Love,
Dave, Steve & The Happy Pear Team
This episode is sponsored by Air Up. This revolutionary water bottle that will blow your mind and get you drinking tons more water, have given our listeners an exclusive 10% discount when you enter the code HAPPYPEAR10
Produced by Sean Cahill & Sara Fawsitt
Available now from all good podcast providers:
One of our most popular videos on instagram was a shawarma – here we make an umami spiced ketchup and marinate some oyster mushrooms which we skewer and char until they are so magnificent, serve with a tahini yogurt cream, spicy tabbouleh and pickled red onions, these are so tasty!
Mushroom Shawarma skewers on flat breads
One of our most popular videos on instagram was a shawarma – here we make an umami spiced ketchup and marinate some oyster mushrooms which we skewer and char until they are so magnificent, serve with a tahini yogurt cream, spicy tabbouleh and pickled red onions, these are so tasty!
Takes 25 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
200goyster mushrooms
Umami Ketchup Sauce
3tbsptomato puree
1.5tbspmaple syrup
2tbsp apple cider vinegar
1/2tsp garlic powder
1/3tspsalt
2tbspTamari
Tahini cream
200gnatural soy yoghurt
100glight tahini
1/2tspgarlic powder
1/2lemon juice
pinch of salt
Pickled red onions
1/2red onion
75mlapple cider vinegar
pinch of salt
2 flat breads
Instructions
First let's pickle the red onion, peel and finely slice the red onion into long thin slices and add to a glass along with the salt and vinegar, ensuring all the onion is submerged in the vinegar.
Mix together all the umami ketchup ingredients and mix well, taste and adjust the seasoning and spiciness to your liking. Take the oyster mushrooms and rip the larger ones in half lengthwise and add to a bowl along with ¾ of the umami ketchup and mix well, and leave to marinade for 5 mins while you make the tabbouleh and tahini cream.
For the tabbouleh quarter the cherry tomatoes, finely dice the cucumber, lettuce and coriander and add them all to a bowl, finely dice the chilli, include the seeds if you prefer it spicy or discard if too spicy and add to the bowl. Add a generous pinch of salt and mix well, taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
For the tahini cream, mix together all the ingredients with a fork until it comes together into a thick creamy delicious looking sauce, not that unlike mayonnaise. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking. If its too thick add a little more yogurt and if it's too thin add a little more tahini, you want it like mayo like consistency.
Carefully thread the mushrooms onto 2 skewers, heat a frying pan or griddle pan on high heat and add 1.5 tbsp of oil. Once hot, reduce to a medium heat, add the mushroom skewers and cook on all sides until they start to char. Use a pastry brush to brush on more of the sauce to ensure an even coating where the sauce almost glazes the outside of the mushrooms.Once the mushrooms are lightly charred all over remove from the heat.
To serve, heat up the flat breads and add a generous dollop of tahini cream on the base, followed by lots of tabbouleh, remove the mushrooms from the skewer on top and finely add some pickled red onion on top – enjoy!
Oyster mushroom Steaks with ginger and sesame cucumbers
These are phenomenal. We originally set out to create an epic cucumber dish, as we had so many on the farm, with the mushroom steaks playing a supporting role. However, they turned out so good that they stole the show! These steaks are super “meaty,” juicy, umami-rich, and absolutely delicious! We served them with a spicy Asian-style cucumber salad.
Takes 17 minutesminutes
Serves 1
Ingredients
200goyster mushrooms
2tbspsesame oil
1tbspapple cider vinegar
1.5tbsptamari
1.5tbspmaple syrup
¼thumbsizeginger
Cucumber Salad
1tbspsesame oil
1tbsptamari
1tbspmaple syrup
1tbspbrown sugar
1tspchilli flakes
1clovegarlic
¼thumbsizepiece of ginger
2cucumbers
Instructions
Prepare the Cucumber Salad:Slice the cucumbers into ½ cm slices. Finely dice the garlic and ginger, then mix them with the remaining cucumber salad ingredients (sesame oil, tamari, maple syrup, brown sugar, and chilli flakes). Transfer the sauce to a saucepan and heat over high heat. Bring to the boil, then reduce to a low heat and simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens. This will help it coat the cucumbers better. Set the sauce aside to cool while preparing the mushroom steaks.
Make the Mushroom Steak Marinade:In a small bowl or glass, mix 1 tbsp sesame oil, apple cider vinegar, tamari, maple syrup, and the finely diced ginger. Set this marinade aside.
Cook the Mushroom Steaks:Heat a non-stick pan over high heat and add 1 tbsp sesame oil. Place the oyster mushrooms in the pan in a single layer, ensuring they have enough space to fry. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to press the mushrooms down so they brown evenly and release some of their moisture. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the mushrooms start to brown.
Add the Sauce:Once the mushrooms are browned, carefully add enough of the prepared sauce to lightly coat the mushrooms. Avoid adding too much sauce to prevent the mushrooms from becoming too soggy. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce is absorbed and the mushrooms look caramelised. Repeat with any remaining mushrooms, if necessary.
Plate and Serve:Toss the cucumber slices with the cooled cucumber sauce, ensuring they are well coated. Divide the cucumber salad between two plates and serve the mushroom steaks alongside. Enjoy!
This week we speak to Jane Esselstyn! Jane brings her perspective and passion as a nurse, researcher, mother, and teacher to the forefront of the plant-based movement. Author and co-author of NY Times Bestseller Be a Plant-Based Woman Warrior: Live Fierce, Stay Bold, Eat Delicious, and The Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease Cookbook, Jane presents her work, research, and high energy demos around the world- and on her new YouTube channel with her mum, Ann Esselstyn.
Episode 125
Women, families and community drive Jane’s work forward. She is the host of the annual conference, Prevent and Reverse Heart Disease for Women, which is focused on the power of plants! Jane claims, “Prevention is the new cure, and the most powerful, relevant, and protective medicine available”. With full enthusiasm, Jane co-founded Well, Now! Camp – an activity -filled, creative escape for Plant-Based Women Warriors .
In this lively conversation, Jane shares her wealth of knowledge and passion for healthy, plant-powered lifestyles, providing listeners with practical tips and empowering insights along the way.
Throughout the episode, Jane delves into the practical aspects of adopting a plant-based lifestyle, offering invaluable advice. Aside from talking plants, we also dive deep into the area of sex education, a big jump from plant-based eating you might think! However, Jane has worked as a sex educator for a number of years and shares some brilliant insights on how the topic should be explored.
As a renowned author and speaker, Jane has dedicated herself to empowering individuals on their journey towards better health. Her warm and relatable approach makes the path to wellness accessible and enjoyable for all. This episode will leave you feeling inspired, informed, and hopefully ready to embark on your own transformative health journey.
This episode is sponsored by Vivobarefoot Footwear. Vivobarefoot Footwear have given our listeners an exclusive 15% discount when you enter the code HAPPYPEAR15
Genuinely these are the only shoes you will see Dave & Steve wearing!
Produced by Sean Cahill & Sara Fawsitt
Available now from all good podcast providers:
The Happy Pear Podcast
We’re thrilled to share some exciting news with you – we are giving you, our community, the chance to join us on the journey as co-owners of The Happy Pear.
We’re selling 18.9% ownership of The Happy Pear to our community as part of our very first Crowd Investing Campaign.
Episode 124
We have been helping people make healthier food choices that are kinder to them and the planet since starting The Happy Pear over 19 years ago. And now, we’re inviting you to be part of this journey as a co-owner.
Our mission in the last 19 years has not changed! Our aim is to create a happier, healthier world and build community which is more relevant than ever today.
And now, we’re offering you a chance to be part of this journey as a co-owner.
In this episode we provide you with the behind the scenes of how and why The Happy Pear started, from a small fruit and veg shop to the business it is today. We talk through the successes and our future vision.
This episode is sponsored by Vivobarefoot Footwear. Vivobarefoot Footwear have given our listeners an exclusive 15% discount when you enter the code HAPPYPEAR15
Genuinely these are the only shoes you will see Dave & Steve wearing!
Produced by Sean Cahill & Sara Fawsitt
Available now from all good podcast providers:
Courgette Hasselback With Romesco Sauce And Mint Yogurt
This is such a beautiful way to cook courgettes. By cooking them this way, they become soft, charred, and succulent, pairing perfectly with the robust Romesco sauce and the creamy mint and yoghurt topping. Magnificent! We used small, new-season courgettes for a sweeter flavour.
Takes 35 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
2medium courgettes
Romesco Sauce
1 x 220gjarroast red pepper
1clovegarlic
100gblanched almonds
8tbspolive oil
1tbspvinegar
2tspsalt
Pinch of ground black pepper
Yoghurt Sauce
250gcoconut yoghurt
10gfresh mint
2tbsptahini
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Pinch of salt
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:Preheat the oven to 200°C.
Prepare the Courgettes:Slice each courgette 3/4 of the way through, spacing the slices approximately 1/2 cm apart to create a Hasselback effect. Place the courgettes on a baking tray, brush with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, and sprinkle with a generous pinch of salt. Ensure some oil gets between the slices. Bake for 20 minutes.
Make the Romesco Sauce:While the courgettes are baking, peel the garlic cloves and add them to a food processor along with the roasted red peppers, blanched almonds, olive oil, vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Prepare the Yoghurt Sauce:Remove the mint leaves from the stalks and finely chop them. In a bowl, combine the mint, coconut yoghurt, tahini, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix well and adjust the seasoning to taste.
Check the Courgettes:After 20 minutes, check on the courgettes. Open up some of the slices and add a little more oil if necessary to help them turn golden inside. Bake for a further 5 minutes, or until the courgettes are soft, slightly charred, but still holding their shape.
Serve:In two bowls, spread a generous layer of Romesco sauce at the base. Place a courgette on top of each, then drizzle with the yoghurt sauce for a lovely finish. Enjoy!
These are so good and a great way to sneak in some extra carrots. Carrot is the second sweetest of all vegetables and really complements the chewy sweetness of these flapjacks beautifully!
Takes 45 minutesminutes
Serves 12
Ingredients
200gjumbo oats
100gcarrot(grated)
75gflour
150mlvegetable oil
50mlmaple syrup
125gbrown sugar
200gpistachios
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 160°C.
Finely grate the carrot into a bowl, add a tiny pinch of salt, and mix. Transfer the grated carrot to a sieve and squeeze out any excess juice.
Remove the shells from the pistachios and roughly chop them.
In a bowl, mix together the dry ingredients: oats, flour, brown sugar, and pistachios. Make a well in the centre.
In another bowl, mix together the wet ingredients: vegetable oil, maple syrup, and the grated carrot.
Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix well.
Line a 28 x 18 cm brownie tray with parchment paper. Add the flapjack mixture, pressing it into the corners and flattening it with the back of a spoon. Ensure it is well compacted but not overly pressed.
Bake for 30 minutes at 160°C (for a crispier flapjack, bake at 180°C for 30 minutes).
Remove from the oven and allow to cool for 10 minutes. While still in the tray, portion the flapjack into 16 squares (or your preferred size) using a knife. Allow it to cool fully before removing from the tray. It is very important to let the flapjacks cool completely to ensure they hold their shape.
Store in an airtight container and enjoy! We don’t actually know how long they last beyond 7 days at room temperature, as they are always eaten before then.
This week we welcome a very special guest, the remarkable Ed Winters, also known as Earthling Ed. Ed is a prominent figure in the animal rights and veganism movement, whose passion and dedication have touched the lives of many.
Episode 123
In this episode, we dive deep into his inspiring journey, explore his impactful advocacy work, and uncover the strategies he employs to spread compassion and create a kinder world for animals.
Ed’s impressive credentials include speaking engagements at conferences and universities, captivating TEDx talks, and appearances in mainstream media. His extensive experience and knowledge have made him a respected voice within the movement.
We delve into Ed’s personal experiences and pivotal moments that led him on a path of advocating for animals. Through his deep empathy and unwavering commitment, he has shaped a mission to raise awareness and drive positive change. Ed shares his journey, revealing the transformative power of compassion and how it propels his work forward.
One of the strategies that sets Ed apart is his approach to advocacy work. He believes in the power of storytelling and empathy to connect with people on an emotional level. By highlighting the inherent value of all sentient beings, he encourages individuals to reconsider their food choices and embrace a compassionate lifestyle. Ed shares insights into the strategies he finds most effective in inspiring change and empowering others to make a difference.
Throughout the episode, we hear about the impact of Ed’s speeches, presentations, and online content. His ability to captivate audiences and foster genuine connections has left a lasting impression on many. We explore success stories and memorable moments that showcase the profound influence Ed has had on individuals, as well as the broader movement.
Ed’s vision for the future revolves around creating a kinder world for animals and the planet. He believes that compassion can revolutionise our relationship with animals, promote health, sustainability, and ethical choices. By embracing a plant-based lifestyle, we can contribute to a brighter future for all.
Join us as we explore the power of compassion and discover how each of us can play a role in creating a brighter, kinder world for all.
Enjoy!
Lots of love,
Dave & Steve
This episode is sponsored by Vivobarefoot Footwear. Vivobarefoot Footwear have given our listeners an exclusive 15% discount when you enter the code HAPPYPEAR15
Genuinely these are the only shoes you will see Dave & Steve wearing!
Produced by Sean Cahill & Sara Fawsitt
Available now from all good podcast providers:
Easy Pear Tart Tatin
This easy recipe is the embodiment of synergy, as the components taste so much greater together than they do individually. The pears become beautifully caramelised, complementing the pastry magnificently.
Takes 30 minutesminutes
Serves 6
Ingredients
2pears(ripe)
75gbrown sugar (or white sugar)
1sheetpuff pastry
Instructions
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C.
Prepare the caramel: Use an ovenproof frying pan and add 2 tablespoons of water along with the sugar. Mix until smooth, with no clumps. Place the pan on high heat and do not stir. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and leave it to cook without stirring until the sugar turns a light shade of gold. Remove the pan from the heat.
Prepare the pears: Slice the pears into long strips. Carefully arrange a single layer of pear slices on top of the caramel (be cautious of the hot pan and caramel). Try to shape the pears into a neat pattern, as this will be the top of your tart.
Roll out the pastry: Roll out the puff pastry and cut it slightly larger than the pan. Carefully place the pastry on top of the pears, tucking it in around the edges.
Bake the tart: Put the pan in the oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the pastry turns golden.
Flip and serve: Remove the pan from the oven. While the pan is still hot, place a board on top of the pan and flip it over confidently. The tart tatin will now be upright, with the pears and caramel on top and the pastry forming the base. Cut and enjoy!
These are so incredibly tasty and they just taste like you want to eat more! The idea of caramelised banana in a salsa originally sounded like a bit of a joke but once we tried it we knew we were on to something! We make a spicy mayo, smokey spicy mushrooms and an epic caramelised banana salsa served on corn tacos.
Spicy mushroom Tacos with caramelised banana salsa
These are so incredibly tasty and they just taste like you want to eat more! The idea of caramelised banana in a salsa originally sounded like a bit of a joke but once we tried it we knew we were on to something! We make a spicy mayo, smokey spicy mushrooms and an epic caramelised banana salsa served on corn tacos.
Takes
Serves 2
Ingredients
Spicy Mayo
100mlplant based mayonnaise
1tbspsmoked paprika
1tsp chilli flakes
Caramelised Banana salsa
1banana
100gcherry tomatoes
10gfresh coriander
1/2red chilli
1/2lime juice
1/2red onion
1tbspoil
Spicy Mushrooms
150goyster mushrooms
1tbspcumin seeds
2tbsptamari
1tbspsmoked paprika
1/2tspchilli flakes
To serve
4corn tacos
Instructions
For the spicy mayo mix together the ingredients until you get a lovely reddy sauce, this makes a delicious base layer to these tacos.
Heat a non-stick frying pan on high heat and peel and slice the ripe banana in half and then in half lengthwise, giving you 4 pieces. Add them to the hot pan open side down and cook until they caramelise or start to go golden. Reduce the heat to low and cook at a low heat for 3-4 mins allowing them to stew slightly in their own juices. Turn off the heat and leave to cool while you prepare the rest of the ingredients for the salsa.
Quarter the cherry tomatoes. Finely dice the red onion and coriander (or flat parsley) including the stalk. Peel and finely dice the chilli. Remove the banana from the pan and finely dice. Add all the ingredients for the salsa to the cooled pan and mix to incorporate the banana juices on the pan. Add to a bowl along with the limes juice, oil and pinch of salt. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Heat the same non stick pan on high heat and add 1 tbsp of oil. Rip the mushrooms into long thin stips and add to the hot pan along with the cumin seeds. Use another slightly smaller pan to compress the mushrooms. This will encourage more evaporation and concentration of their flavour as well as giving a better char (just ensure the base of the smaller pan is clean!)
Cook until they turn brown on the bottom turn this should take anywhere from 2-4 mins and repeat. Add in the tamari and maple syrup and mix through and allow to cook down for 1-2 mins. Remove from the heat. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking.Cut the avocado in half remove the flesh and slice into long slices.
To assemble, get the corn taco, add a generous dollop of spicy mayo, followed by the caramelised banana sala, followed by some avocado slices and lastly the mushrooms on top. Repeat the the remaining ingredients and tacos and enjoy!
Leek is often an underrated vegetable, but when burnt on the outside, it steams inside and becomes one of the most succulent of vegetables. We make a strong, salty salsa that complements the sweetness of the leek perfectly!
Takes 30 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
2leeks(600g)
1tbspmiso
15gflat-leaf parsley
½red chilli
½lemon(juiced)
2clovesgarlic
3tbspolive oil
1tbspcapers(drained)
To serve
3tbspsauerkraut
20gtoasted walnuts(crushed)
Instructions
Prepare the leeks:Wash the leeks thoroughly to ensure there is no sediment inside the green part.Preheat the oven to 250°C (or, if using a wood-fired oven, light a fire and wait until it reaches 250°C).
Cook the leeks:Place the leeks, unpeeled, into the oven and cook until the outside is burnt all over. Turn them every 5-7 minutes to ensure an even char. The leeks should be black on the outside (don’t worry!) and soft inside, indicating they are cooked through.
Make the salsa:While the leeks are cooking, prepare the salsa. Peel and finely dice the garlic, finely dice the red chilli, and chop the flat-leaf parsley.Add the garlic, chilli, parsley, miso, lemon juice, olive oil, and capers to a pestle and mortar or blender. Grind or blend until smooth but with a bit of texture remaining.
Assemble the dish:Remove the leeks from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes so they are easier to handle. Once cool, peel off the burnt outer layer, revealing the soft green insides.Tear the leeks into long strips, resembling spaghetti, and divide them between two plates.Drizzle the salsa over the leeks, garnish with sauerkraut, and sprinkle the crushed walnuts on top.Serve and enjoy!
Dr. Peter Lovatt, also known as “Dr. Dance,” is a renowned psychologist and researcher who has dedicated his career to exploring the relationship between movement and human behavior. He is an expert in the field of dance psychology, and his work has been featured in numerous academic journals and media outlets.
Episode 122
In the latest episode we sit down with Dr. Dance to discuss the many benefits of dance and movement, both for physical health and mental well-being. Throughout the episode, we explore topics such as the connection between movement and creativity, the role of dance in building social connections, and the positive effects of dance on mental health.
With his infectious energy and enthusiasm, Dr. Dance shares his wealth of knowledge and insights on the power of movement to transform our lives. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a complete novice, this episode is sure to leave you feeling inspired and motivated to get up and move your body!
So, if you’re looking for some uplifting and informative listening, be sure to check out this episode with Dr. Peter Lovatt, aka “Dr. Dance.”
Lots of love,
Dave & Steve
This episode is sponsored by Vivobarefoot Footwear. Vivobarefoot Footwear have given our listeners an exclusive 15% discount when you enter the code HAPPYPEAR15
Genuinely these are the only shoes you will see Dave & Steve wearing!
These mushrooms are super elegant and make a fabulous summer burger. They are juicy, crispy, gooey, sweet, savoury, spicy, and pickled. This burger is so worth the effort!
Takes 43 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
4large portobello mushrooms
3tbsptamari / soy sauce
3tbspmaple syrup (2 tbsp for the mushrooms, 1 tbsp for the peaches)
2tbspjerk seasoning
50gbreadcrumbs
3tbspoil
30gflour
100mlplant-based milk
1 fresh ripe peach
PICKLESE
50gcabbage
1/2carrot
1/2green or red pepper
1small red onion
1clovegarlic
pinchground clove
pinchground cinnamon
1/2tspblack pepper
juice of1 lime
1/2tspsalt
200mlvinegar of choice
To serve
3tbsp pesto(we used our spicy red pepper pesto)
4tbspvegan mayo
2burger bun
Instructions
Make the Picklese: Finely slice the cabbage or grate it. Finely slice/julienne the carrot, pepper, red onion, and garlic. Dice the chilli, leaving the seeds in if you want more heat. Mix with the salt, black pepper, cinnamon, clove, and lime juice. Transfer the mixture to a jar, cover with the vinegar of choice until fully submerged, and let it pickle while you prepare the other components.
Prepare the Mushrooms: Heat a non-stick pan on high heat. Once hot, add 1 tsp oil and the mushrooms, ensuring they are well spread out. Compress the mushrooms using another clean pan to help evaporate moisture and concentrate the flavours. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden.
Glaze the Mushrooms: Add tamari and maple syrup to the pan and mix until the mushrooms are well coated. Turn off the heat and move the mushrooms around the pan to absorb the glaze evenly on both sides.
Coat the Mushrooms: Place flour in one bowl, plant-based milk in a second bowl, and breadcrumbs mixed with 1 tsp of jerk seasoning and a pinch of salt in a third bowl. Coat the cooked mushrooms first in the flour, then dip in the milk, and finally coat with the breadcrumbs. Repeat for all mushrooms.
Fry the Mushrooms: Heat 2 tbsp oil in a non-stick pan on high heat. Once hot, cook the mushrooms for 2 minutes on each side until golden and crispy. Set aside
Char the Peaches: Cut the peach in half, remove the stone and slice into four pieces. Heat a non-stick pan on high and cook the peach slices for 2 minutes on one side. Add 1 tbsp maple syrup and move the peach slices to coat them evenly. Cook until charred and golden. Remove and set aside.
Toast the Buns: Toast the burger buns in the pan for 1-2 minutes until golden.
Assemble the Burgers: Spread vegan mayo on the bottom bun and pesto or ketchup on the top bun. Place a mushroom burger on each bottom bun, followed by 2 slices of charred peach. Top with a generous portion of picklese. Finish with the top bun and enjoy!
A 5-ingredient, delicious, and super simple fruity pastry slice that will leave you craving more! Decadently crispy, sweet, and yum!
Takes 30 minutesminutes
Serves 4
Ingredients
4apricots
handfulpistachios crushed
50ml maple syrup
1sheetpuff pastry
20gicing sugar
Instructions
Preheat the Oven:Preheat the oven to 180°C.
Prepare the Baking Tray:Line a baking tray with baking parchment. Drizzle 4 tablespoons of maple syrup onto the parchment in small patches where the pastries will sit.
Prepare the Pistachios and Apricots:Finely slice the pistachios and sprinkle them over the maple syrup patches. Slice the apricots into approximately 8 slices per apricot and place them on top of the pistachios.
Prepare the Puff Pastry:Slice the puff pastry sheet into 4 rectangles, each about 12 cm x 6 cm. Place these on top of the maple syrup, pistachio, and apricot layers, pressing down so the maple syrup coats the bottom side of the pastry. If any maple syrup seeps out, brush it on top of the pastry.
Bake:Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes until the pastry is golden and crispy.
Finish and Serve:Remove the tray from the oven and, using a palette knife, carefully lift each slice and flip it over so the apricot side is facing up. Dust with icing sugar using a sieve before serving.
In this weeks’s episode we sit down with Colman Power, a fitness coach and personal trainer with over 20 years of experience in the health and wellness industry. Colman is also an expert in organic horticulture and has a wealth of knowledge to share on growing your own vegetables and herbs.
Episode 121
During the episode, Colman shares his passion for organic gardening and the benefits of growing your own produce. He explains how easy it can be to get started, even if you have limited space or experience. We discuss topics such as companion planting, soil health, and the importance of organic methods in promoting biodiversity and protecting the environment.
But it’s not just about gardening – Colman also provides insights on how to incorporate the fresh fruits and veggies you grow into your meals. He shares his favorite recipes and ideas for making the most of your harvest. He also discusses the importance of functional movement and how gardening can actually be a form of exercise.
A great episode which we had the pleasure of recording in person!
Lots of love,
Dave & Steve
This episode is sponsored by Vivobarefoot Footwear. Vivobarefoot Footwear have given our listeners an exclusive 15% discount when you enter the code HAPPYPEAR15
Genuinely these are the only shoes you will see Dave & Steve wearing!
Produced by Sean Cahill & Sara Fawsitt
Available now from all good podcast providers:
Charred Cabbage with Chimicurri
Cabbage is often considered bland, but when charred, its flavour is transformed into something magical! Chimichurri sauce, originally from South America, is a fresh, spiced, acidic sauce that pairs beautifully with the cabbage, along with a base of caramelised onion hummus. This dish is well worth trying!
Takes 30 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
1york or pointed cabbage
1tsppink peppercorns(optional)
1tbspcumin seeds(optional)
½tspchilli flakes(optional)
3tbspoil for frying
Chimichurri Sauce:
½red chilli
2garlic cloves
10gfresh coriander
5gfresh flat-leaf parsley
60mlolive oil
40mlred wine vinegar
½tspsalt
For Serving:
180gcaramelised onion hummus
Instructions
Prepare the Cabbage:Fill and boil the kettle. Cut the cabbage into 4 quarters, ensuring to keep the stalk on each piece so they hold their shape when cooked. Place the cabbage in a saucepan, add a generous pinch of salt, and cover with boiled water. For extra flavour, you can add 1 tsp pink peppercorns, 1 tbsp cumin seeds, and ½ tsp chilli flakes (all optional). Cover the pan with a lid and boil for about 10 minutes, until the cabbage is soft but still holding its shape.
Make the Chimichurri Sauce:While the cabbage is cooking, prepare the chimichurri sauce. Peel and finely dice the garlic, finely chop the chilli (omit for less spice), and finely chop the parsley and coriander. Add everything to a bowl, along with a pinch of salt, the olive oil, and the red wine vinegar. Mix well and adjust the seasoning to taste. The sauce should be fresh, acidic, and well balanced.
Char the Cabbage:Drain the cooked cabbage. Heat a frying pan over high heat, add 3 tbsp of oil, and wait until the oil is very hot. Add the cabbage quarters and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until charred and golden. Sprinkle with a pinch of coarse sea salt while cooking.
Assemble the Dish:Spread the caramelised onion hummus onto a large serving plate. Arrange the charred cabbage quarters on top, and drizzle or spoon over the chimichurri sauce.
Dr. Kathryn Pinkham is a highly esteemed sleep specialist with over a decade of experience helping people overcome their sleep issues. She is the founder of The Insomnia Clinic, which is a private clinic based in London that offers a range of evidence-based treatments for insomnia and other sleep disorders. Kathryn has also worked with a variety of well-known clients, including professional athletes, business leaders, and celebrities.
Episode 120
During this episode, Kathryn discusses the importance of getting a good night’s sleep and how it can impact our overall health and wellbeing. She shares some helpful tips and tricks for improving our sleep habits, including setting a regular sleep schedule, creating a calming bedtime routine, and avoiding screens before bed.
Kathryn also discuss the impact of stress and anxiety on sleep, as well as the benefits of mindfulness and relaxation techniques for improving sleep quality.
Overall, this episode is a must-listen for anyone struggling with sleep issues or looking to improve their overall sleep hygiene.
Lots of love,
Dave & Steve
This episode is sponsored by Vivobarefoot Footwear. Vivobarefoot Footwear have given our listeners an exclusive 15% discount when you enter the code HAPPYPEAR15
Genuinely these are the only shoes you will see Dave & Steve wearing!
Produced by Sean Cahill & Sara Fawsitt
Available now from all good podcast providers:
Beauty Bowl
This is a fresh and vibrant bowl aimed at helping you radiate from within! It’s a well-balanced meal that is low in fat yet high in flavour, and takes just 30 minutes from start to finish. The pickled radishes are a must-try! This recipe is from our Happy Shape course, which is aimed at helping you reach your happy shape.
Takes 20 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
1red pepper
100ggreen leaves
160gfirm tofu
2tbsptamari
1tbspmaple syrup
1tspvinegar
50gmixed seeds
12cherry tomatoes
1avocado
150gcooked butter beans
Pickled Radish
4-5radishes
40mlapple cider vinegar
Pinchof salt
5gfennel(herb of choice)
To serve
2slicessourdough
Instructions
Make the pickled radishes:Thinly slice the radishes along with your herb of choice. Place in a glass or small bowl, add a pinch of salt, and cover with the apple cider vinegar (or vinegar of choice). Mix and leave to sit while you prepare the rest of the bowl.
Prepare the pepper:Slice the red pepper into long strips. Heat a griddle pan or non-stick frying pan over high heat. Once hot, add the peppers with no oil and fry them on both sides until they start to char around the edges, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
Cook the tofu:Slice the tofu into 4 pieces. Using the same hot pan, sear the tofu on both sides over high heat until it turns lightly golden brown. Mix the tamari, maple syrup, and vinegar together, then pour over the tofu. Move the tofu around in the pan to absorb the sauce. As the sauce cools, it will thicken and glaze the tofu. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Toast the seeds:Keep the pan hot and add the mixed seeds. Stir regularly while cooking, and when the sesame seeds begin to pop (about 4-5 minutes), remove from heat.
Prepare the vegetables:Drain and rinse the butter beans. Cut the avocado in half, remove the stone, scoop out the flesh, and slice into long strips. Quarter the cherry tomatoes.
Assemble the bowl:Divide the green leaves between two bowls. Arrange the tofu, red pepper, butter beans, avocado slices, and cherry tomatoes on top. Remove the radishes from the vinegar and divide between the bowls. Sprinkle the toasted seeds on top. Serve with sourdough slices and enjoy!
This is a lovely healthier take on the classic, the airfryer means we don’t have to deep fry our “fish” thus reducing the oil content by approx 60%. Here we use tofu as our “fish” and by coating in a little seaweed and some tamari delivers a great flavour – we used the instabrand vortex plus versazone airfryer as the 2 drawers meant we could cook the “fish” and chips at the same time and have them finish together!
Here we used an Instant Versazone – Save 15% on any full price Instant air fryer with code HAPPY until 31st May.
Beer Battered “Fish” Fingers and Chips in an airfryer
This is a lovely healthier take on the classic, the airfryer means we don't have to deep fry our “fish” thus reducing the oil content by approx 60%. Here we use tofu as our “fish” and by coating in a little seaweed and some tamari delivers a great flavour – we used the instabrand vortex plus versazone airfryer as the 2 drawers meant we could cook the “fish” and chips at the same time and have them finish together! Here we used an Instant Versazone Dual Drawer mode…meaning you can cook two different batches at the same time! Save 15% on any full price Instant air fryer with code HAPPY until 31st May.
Takes 14 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
Beer Umami Bath
60mlAle / Beer of Choice
45mlTamari / Soya Sauce
Dry Sea Mix
35gCornflour
60gPlain Flour
3gDry Seaweed of Choice / Seaweed Powder
1/4tspSalt
1/6tspGarlic Powder
Base Coat
200gFirm Tofu
Spray Oil for browning
Chips
400gPotatoes
Salt
Instructions
For the chips:
Preheat the airfryer to 200 degrees c
Cut the potatoes into chip size (approx 1cm x 1cm x 8cm) , rinse them in cold water and leave them to soak for a minute or 2 and rinse again. This process will remove some of the starch and result in a crispier chip! Add to one side of the airfryer and add 1/3 tsp of salt and 5 sprays of oil and mix well.
Put them on bake function on the airfryer for 25 mins at 200 degrees c. If using an instabrand vortex plus versazone airfryer, use the dual sync function so the chips and the tofu end at the same time.
For the Tofu:
Finely dice or rip up the seaweed, if using a sheet of nori finely dice using a knife and if using the likes of arame seaweed just finely dice with a knife or use a pestle and mortar, you want it to be a fine almost powder-like texture.
Get 2 bowls, one for the beer and tamari mix, and one for the dry sea mix. Cut the tofu into long rectangle strips, approx 5cm x 10cm x 1cmIn the first bowl mix the seaweed, flour, cornflour, salt and garlic powder. In the second bowl mix together the beer and tamari/ soy sauce.
Dip the tofu in the beer tamari mix, then into the dry sea mix, and repeat 3 times to give it a good coat that doesn't run.
Carefully place in the airfryer and spray with an oil spray approx 5-10 times, this will give a more even golden colour, bake for 15 mins at 200 degrees c.
Twice during the cooking process remove the tofu and coat in the tamari beer mixture and then the dry mixture and then the tamari beer mixture and put back in the airfryer to cook. This will ensure you get a good crusty batter.
Once cooked, remove and serve the battered “fish” and chips with some peas and a slice of lemon, enjoy!
Baba – means dad, and Ganoush – means spoilt, as in such a treat to eat this dish. We love it and have made a healthier version to keep it lower in fat but big on flavour. If you want to add extra tahini or olive oil on top… we approve!
Takes 18 minutesminutes
Serves
Ingredients
2aubergines
70gtahini
3tbsplemon juice
1clovegarlic
3tbspplant-based yoghurt
1tspsalt
pinchground pepper
¼tspsumac
Instructions
In the oven: Preheat the oven to 220°C (fan).Cut the aubergines in half lengthways, rub a little oil on the inside of the aubergines, and place them on a baking tray, flesh side down. Sprinkle with salt and cook for 40 minutes until the aubergines are charred, collapsed, and super soft.
On an open flame: If you have a gas stove, you can cook the aubergines directly on an open flame, turning occasionally for approximately 15 minutes, until charred, collapsed, and super soft inside.
Finishing:Allow the aubergines to cool for a few minutes until you can handle them.In a medium mixing bowl, scrape out the soft flesh from the aubergines (it should come away easily from the skin).Add the remaining ingredients and mix well. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more lemon, salt, or heat according to your preference.
In this episode, we are joined by Michelle Wong, a cosmetic chemist and skincare blogger with a PhD in chemistry. Michelle has been sharing her expertise on all things skincare for over a decade, and her blog, Lab Muffin, is a go-to resource for those looking to learn more about the science behind beauty products.
Episode 119
The conversation covers a range of topics, including the importance of using sun cream, the difference between natural and unnatural cosmetic ingredients, and more. Michelle shares her insights and expertise throughout the episode, explaining complex scientific concepts in an approachable and engaging way.
We start off by discussing the science behind sun cream and how it works to protect the skin from UV radiation. Michelle emphasises the importance of using sun cream on a daily basis, regardless of skin tone or weather conditions, to prevent skin damage and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
The conversation then shifts to the topic of natural vs unnatural cosmetic ingredients. Michelle explains that these labels can be misleading, as there is no clear definition of what constitutes a “natural” ingredient. She also notes that many synthetic ingredients are safe and effective, and that the focus should be on choosing products that work well for your skin type and needs.
Throughout the episode, Michelle shares her expertise on skincare and beauty products, dispelling common myths and misconceptions and offering practical advice for listeners.
A fascinating and informative deep dive into the world of skincare, from the insights and expertise of Michelle Wong (Lab Muffin). Whether you’re a skincare enthusiast or simply curious about the science behind beauty products, this episode is for you..
Lots of love,
Dave & Steve
This episode is sponsored by Vivobarefoot Footwear. Vivobarefoot Footwear have given our listeners an exclusive 15% discount when you enter the code HAPPYPEAR15
Genuinely these are the only shoes you will see Dave & Steve wearing!
Produced by Sean Cahill & Sara Fawsitt
Available now from all good podcast providers:
High Protein Chickpea Curry
Delicious, simple, and so tasty! This chickpea curry is packed full of fibre, flavour, and is great for heart health. It’s one of the recipes from our Happy Heart Course with Cardiologist Joel Kahn.
Takes 20 minutesminutes
Serves 4
Ingredients
100gtempeh (3.5 oz)
2clovesgarlic
10gfresh ginger (0.35 oz )
4scallions(green onions)
1tbspmiso paste
1x 400g (14 oz)(tin of chopped tomatoes)
1x 400g (14 oz )(tin of low fat coconut milk)
100g baby spinach (3.5 oz)
1carrot
1yellow pepper
2x 400g (14 oz) (each tins of cooked chickpeas)
10cherry tomatoes
1tbspcumin seeds
½tspfennel seeds(optional)
2tbspcurry powder
1tspground turmeric
1tspsalt
¼tspground black pepper
Juice of ½ lime
Instructions
Prepare Vegetables and Tempeh: Grate the carrot and ginger. Peel and finely dice the garlic. Finely slice the scallions or green onions. Use a potato peeler to slice the tempeh into thin slices. Drain and rinse 2 x 400g tins of cooked chickpeas. Quarter 10 cherry tomatoes. Slice the yellow pepper into thin slices.
Sauté Vegetables and Tempeh: Heat a wide-bottomed frying pan on high heat. Once hot, add the sliced green onions, sliced yellow pepper, grated ginger, grated carrot, and sliced tempeh; fry for 2 minutes.
Add Spices and Garlic: Next, add the diced garlic, 1 tbsp cumin seeds, and ½ tsp fennel seeds to the pan and cook for another 2 minutes.
Combine Remaining Ingredients: Add in the drained chickpeas followed by the rest of the ingredients (1 x 400g tin chopped tomatoes, 1 x 400g tin coconut milk, 1 tbsp miso paste, 2 tbsp curry powder, 1 tsp ground turmeric, 1 tsp salt, and ¼ tsp ground black pepper) and mix well.
Simmer and Season: Bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer for 3-4 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking by adding more salt, pepper, or lime juice.
Serve: Toast 2 slices of sourdough bread. Serve the curry alongside the toasted bread for a delicious meal!
This recipe was created on the farm and is low in fat, oil-free, and incredibly easy to make while remaining full of flavour. We make the paste from scratch in a pestle and mortar to bring out a deep, bold taste! Alternatively, you can use a blender or food processor—just ensure the paste is as smooth as possible.
Takes 27 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
For the paste:
1sticklemongrass
1thumb-sized piece of ginger
2clovesgarlic
1red chilli
1tbspcoconut sugar (or brown sugar)
Juice of 1/2 lime
2tbsptamari
For the curry:
250gfirm tofu
2tbsptamari
1 x 400g tin of chickpeas
1 x 400gtin of black beans
1headpak choi
1carrot
4scallions
200mllight coconut milk
200mlwater
15gcoriander
Instructions
Make the paste:Cut the nub off the lemongrass and finely dice. Finely dice the 1/2 chilli, ginger, and garlic. Add them to a pestle and mortar or blender, along with the remaining paste ingredients (coconut sugar, lime juice, and tamari). Blend or grind until smooth.
Prepare the vegetables:Drain and rinse the chickpeas and black beans. Finely dice the carrot, finely slice the scallions, chop the pak choi, and finely chop the coriander.
Cook the tofu:Add the tofu, carrot, and scallions to a pan and fry for 4-5 minutes, turning the tofu occasionally until it becomes lightly golden on each side.
Add the curry paste:Stir in 2 tbsp of tamari and mix well. Add the curry paste to the pan and cook for an additional 2 minutes to let the flavours combine.
Simmer the curry:Pour in the coconut milk and water. Add the drained chickpeas, black beans, and pak choi. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the dish comes together and everything is well mixed.
Taste and adjust:Taste the curry and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, lime juice, or coconut sugar/brown sugar to balance the flavours.
Garnish and serve:Finely dice the remaining 1/2 chilli. Garnish the curry with red chilli and coriander. Serve with your favourite grain, such as rice, noodles, or quinoa. Enjoy!
These are super easy to make, don’t require any proofing since they contain no yeast, and thanks to the air fryer, they have a wonderful crispy exterior – which we love! If you don’t have an air fryer, you can simply bake them in the oven.
Takes 45 minutesminutes
Serves
Ingredients
For the dough:
200gself-raising flour
35gcaster sugar
¼tspsalt
80gcold vegan butter(cut into cubes)
100mloat milk
For the cinnamon filling:
2tbspvegan butter(melted)
90gbrown sugar
1tspground cinnamon
For the cream cheese frosting:
4tbspvegan cream cheese
65gicing sugar
¼tspvanilla extract
1tspoat milk
Instructions
Preheat and preparePreheat the air fryer to 160°C using the bake function. Grease a 2lb loaf tin (approx. 900g).
Make the doughIn a mixing bowl, combine the self-raising flour, caster sugar, and salt. Add the cold vegan butter and use your fingers to rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles damp sand or breadcrumbs.Stir in the oat milk until the dough comes together into a soft clump. Lightly coat the dough in flour to make it easier to handle.Dust your counter with flour and place the dough on the surface. Roll it out into a rectangle, approximately 45cm x 30cm.
Prepare the cinnamon fillingMelt the vegan butter. In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar and ground cinnamon together.Spread the melted butter evenly over the rolled-out dough, making sure to bring it right to the edges. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the buttered dough.
Roll and cutStarting from the long edge (45cm side), tightly roll the dough into a log.Cut the log in half, then halve each piece again, and repeat once more to end up with 8 pieces.Place the cinnamon swirls into the greased loaf tin.
BakePlace the loaf tin in the preheated air fryer drawer and bake for 18-20 minutes until golden and crispy.
Make the frostingWhile the cinnamon rolls are baking, make the cream cheese frosting. In a bowl, mix the vegan cream cheese, icing sugar, vanilla extract, and oat milk. Use a fork to break down the mixture and stir until smooth and creamy.
ServeRemove the cinnamon rolls from the air fryer and drizzle the frosting over the top.Serve warm and enjoy!
A delicious mix of oats, puffed rice, coconut and cocoa. High in fibre and only 237 kcals per pouch serving. This multipack is super handy and ideal for the lunchbox, or for on the go and while getting outdoors.
INGREDIENTS
Oat Flakes (52%), Date Syrup, Olive Oil, Coconut Oil, Puffed Brown Rice (5.7%), Desiccated Coconut (3.3%), Fat Reduced Cocoa Powder (1.1%), Sea Salt
ALLERGEN INFORMATION
For allergens, see highlighted ingredients. May also contain traces of Peanuts, other Nuts, Milk and Soya.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
Typical
per 100g
Energy
1963kJ
469kcal
Fat
22g
of which: Saturates
10g
Carbohydrates
55g
of which: Sugars
15g
Fibre
9.9g
Protein
7.9g
Salt
0.56g
This pack contains 3 servings
A delicious mix of oats, puffed rice, coconut and cocoa. High in fibre and only 237 kcals per pouch serving. Ideal for when on the go, outdoors, lunchbox, your pocket or when having a snack break!
INGREDIENTS
Oat Flakes (52%), Date Syrup, Olive Oil, Coconut Oil, Puffed Brown Rice (5.7%), Desiccated Coconut (3.3%), Fat Reduced Cocoa Powder (1.1%), Sea Salt
ALLERGEN INFORMATION
For allergens, see highlighted ingredients. May also contain traces of Peanuts, other Nuts, Milk and Soya.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
Typical
per 100g
Energy
1963kJ
469kcal
Fat
22g
of which: Saturates
10g
Carbohydrates
55g
of which: Sugars
15g
Fibre
9.9g
Protein
7.9g
Salt
0.56g
This box contains 1 serving
A glorious mix of toasted oats, cashew nuts and cranberries mixed with coconut and pumpkin seeds. High in fibre and only 239 kcals per pouch serving. This multipack is super handy and ideal for the lunchbox, or for on the go and while getting outdoors.
For allergens, see highlighted ingredients. May also contain traces of Peanuts, other Nuts, Milk and Soya.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
Typical
per 100g
Energy
1952kJ
467kcal
Fat
21g
of which: Saturates
10g
Carbohydrates
56g
of which: Sugars
19g
Fibre
9.4g
Protein
8.7g
Salt
0.21g
This box contains 3 servings
A glorious mix of toasted oats, cashew nuts and cranberries mixed with coconut and pumpkin seeds. High in fibre and only 239 kcals per pouch serving. Ideal for when on the go, outdoors, lunchbox, your pocket or when having a snack break!
For allergens, see highlighted ingredients. May also contain traces of Peanuts, other Nuts, Milk and Soya.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
Typical
per 100g
Energy
1952kJ
467kcal
Fat
21g
of which: Saturates
10g
Carbohydrates
56g
of which: Sugars
19g
Fibre
9.4g
Protein
8.7g
Salt
0.21g
This box contains 1 serving
A super tasty blend of crunchy roasted corn, mixed with pumpkin seeds, almonds and edamame beans and deliciously seasoned with salt and vinegar. Only 141 kcals per pouch, and with a source of protein and high in fibre.
For allergens, see highlighted ingredients. May also contain traces of Peanuts, Other Nuts, and Sesame.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
Typical
per 100g
Energy
1970kJ
471kcal
Fat
22g
of which: Saturates
2.5g
Carbohydrates
47g
of which: Sugars
1.6g
Fibre
8.5g
Protein
17g
Salt
1.7g
This is a lip smackingly good caramelised red onion hummus with no refined sugar. We love just eating off the spoon or even better with some fresh carrot sticks.
INGREDIENTS
Cooked Chickpeas (39%) (Chickpeas, Water), Cooked Red Onion (19%), Tahini (15%) (Sesame Seeds), Water, Rapeseed Oil, Garlic, Date Syrup (2%), Lemon Juice Concentrate, Sea Salt, Balsamic Vinegar, Black Pepper.
ALLERGEN INFORMATION
For allergens, see ingredients highlighted. May contain traces of nuts.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
Typical
per 100g
Energy
874kJ
210kcal
Fat
13.0g
of which: Saturates
1.6g
Carbohydrates
14g
of which: Sugars
4.0g
Fibre
3.7g
Protein
7.4g
Salt
1.1g
This is a beautifully rich fragrant hummus that is absolutely more-ish and we love that it’s made without using any artificial preservatives.
For allergens, see ingredients highlighted. May contain traces of nuts.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
Typical
per 100g
Energy
1497kJ
361kcal
Fat
29.0g
of which: Saturates
2.7g
Carbohydrates
15g
of which: Sugars
4.9g
Fibre
4.5g
Protein
7.8g
Salt
1.2g
The Happy Pear Podcast
This week we are joined by the incredible Dan Saladino, a renowned food journalist and presenter. Dan’s latest book, ‘Eating to Extinction,’ takes centre stage in this discussion as they explore the vital link between our food choices and the preservation of our planet.
Episode 118
A passionate advocate for sustainable food systems, Dan Saladino is a familiar name in the world of food journalism and presenting. With his wealth of knowledge and experience, Dan has been a driving force in raising awareness about the environmental impact of our food choices.
Get ready to be inspired as Dan unveils the motivation behind his powerful book, ‘Eating to Extinction.’ Discover the profound connection between our diets and biodiversity loss, and how simple shifts in our food choices can contribute to a more sustainable future. From embracing plant-based diets to supporting local and organic farming, Dan offers practical strategies to make a lasting impact.
Join us as we discuss overcoming barriers to change and fostering a sense of community support along the journey to sustainable food choices. Together, we explore the significant role that both the food industry and policy play in creating a sustainable food system.
A brilliant episode! Every meal is an opportunity to make a positive impact on our planet, so let’s embrace sustainable food choices and create a brighter and more sustainable future together!
This episode is sponsored by Vivobarefoot Footwear. Vivobarefoot Footwear have given our listeners an exclusive 15% discount when you enter the code HAPPYPEAR15
Genuinely these are the only shoes you will see Dave & Steve wearing!
Produced by Sean Cahill & Sara Fawsitt
Available now from all good podcast providers:
Vegan Hoisin Duck Pancakes
One day, when filming YouTube, Steve wanted to recreate an old favourite from our childhood. While we seldom ate out as kids, Steve distinctly remembers enjoying hoisin duck pancakes and adored them. Here, oyster mushrooms are used as the carrier for the wonderful hoisin flavour. They crisp up beautifully when baked in the oven, contrasting with the soft, gentle Chinese-style pancakes. These are simple to make and delicious enough to become a regular go-to!
Takes 30 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
250goyster mushrooms
Marinade
3tbsptahini
5tbspwater
1tbsp miso paste
3tsp brown sugar
1tsp chinese 5 spice
1/2 tsp chilli powder
2tbsp rice wine vinegar
2tbsptamari
Pancakes
150gplain flour
300mlwater
2tsp ground flax
Garnish
1/2cucumber
1/2bunchspring onions
1red chilli
1tbsp sesame seeds
Instructions
Preheat the ovenPreheat the oven to 180°C.
Prepare the mushroomsCut the oyster mushrooms into thin, long strips.
Make the marinadeWhisk all the marinade ingredients (tahini, water, miso paste, brown sugar, Chinese five spice, chilli powder, rice wine vinegar, and tamari) in a medium-sized bowl. Add ¾ of the marinade to the mushrooms and mix well, ensuring all the mushrooms are coated. Set aside to marinate while you prepare the pancake batter.
Make the pancake batterAdd all the pancake ingredients (plain flour, water, and ground flaxseed) to a blender and blend for 30 seconds until smooth. Set aside for 2-3 minutes to allow the flaxseed to thicken.
Bake or fry the mushroomsTo bake, spread the marinated mushrooms onto a baking tray in an even, single layer to allow the edges to crisp.Bake for 20 minutes.To fry, for a crispier version, heat a wide-bottomed non-stick pan on high heat.Add 2-3 tbsp of oil and fry the mushrooms, stirring constantly, until they brown all over, about 5 minutes.Remove from the pan once they are crispy and taste fantastic!
Prepare the garnishWhile the mushrooms are cooking, prepare the cucumber, spring onions, and chilli. Cut the cucumber into 10 cm long thin strips. Slice the spring onions diagonally into thin slices. Slice the red chilli (remove the seeds if you prefer less heat).
Cook the pancakesHeat a medium non-stick pan on high heat. Once hot, add a thin layer of pancake batter (about 40-50 ml per pancake) to make a 15 cm pancake.Reduce the heat to medium. Cook for 1 minute, then carefully turn the pancake over with a silicone spatula and cook for a further minute. Repeat until all the batter is used. Keep the pancakes warm in foil while you cook the rest.
Assemble the pancakesTo assemble, spread 1 tsp of the remaining hoisin sauce on each pancake.Add 2-3 tbsp of the cooked mushrooms, 3-4 cucumber strips, and sprinkle with spring onions, chilli slices, and sesame seeds. Wrap and enjoy!
Tofu is something people either love or hate, but these two methods will turn any hater into a lover! Packed with flavour, air frying makes it easy to achieve that crispy exterior, taking it to the next level.
Sticky spicy barbeque nuggets
This is Dave's favourite version of crispy tofu. These tofu cubes are flavour bombs that transform tofu into the star of the show, making everyone want more!
Takes 20 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
For the Tofu
250gfirm tofu
1tbspoil
2tbspcornstarch(or flour)
1/2tspgarlic powder
Pinchof black pepper
2tbsptamari or soy sauce
1tbspwater
For the Spicy Sticky Sauce
4tbspmaple syrup
1clovegarlic(or 1/2 tsp garlic powder)
1-inchpiece of fresh ginger(or 1 tsp ginger powder)
1/2tspchilli flakes
2tsptomato puree
3tbsptamari or soy sauce
1tbspvinegar
2tspcornflour(or flour + 1 tsp water mixed)
Instructions
Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess water. This will help it achieve a crispier texture when fried.
Cut the tofu into small cubes, roughly 1.5 cm in size. If using fresh garlic and ginger, finely dice them.
In a bowl, toss the tofu cubes with the cornstarch (or flour), garlic powder, and black pepper, making sure the cubes are well coated.
Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a wide, non-stick pan over high heat. Once hot, add the tofu cubes, frying on each side until they begin to char and develop a golden sear. This should take about 5-6 minutes.
While the tofu is frying, mix together all the ingredients for the sauce—maple syrup, garlic, ginger, chilli flakes, tomato puree, tamari or soy sauce, vinegar, and the cornflour-water mixture.
Stir well to ensure the sauce is smooth and lump-free.
Once the tofu is seared on all sides, add 2 tbsp of tamari or soy sauce and 1 tbsp of water to the pan.
Stir to ensure each piece of tofu absorbs some of the tamari.
Pour the spicy sticky sauce over the tofu, stirring to coat each piece evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce becomes thick and sticky. Remove from the heat.
Your sticky, spicy tofu nuggets are ready to enjoy!
This is Steve's favourite version of crispy tofu. It’s based on a simple Japanese-style teriyaki sauce as a base marinade, then covered with a glaze that turns crispy during the second bake. Delicious and so tasty!
Takes 20 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
250gof tofu
Sauce/marinade:
3tbsptamari
2tbspmaple syrup
1tspvinegar of choice(or mirin)
1tspgarlic powder
1tspginger powder
1tspfresh chilli(finely chopped)
For glaze:
2tbspcoconut sugar
1tbspcornstarch(or cornflour)
Instructions
Cut the tofu into 1 cm thick rectangles, approximately 3 x 6 cm.
Mix together the sauce/marinade ingredients. Marinade the tofu in ¾ of the sauce for 1-2 minutes, turning to coat well while the air fryer preheats.
Bake the tofu in the air fryer at 200°C for 10 minutes.
While the tofu is baking, add the remaining ¼ of the marinade, coconut sugar, and cornstarch to a saucepan.
Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens and reduces.
Be careful not to burn it! If it thickens too much, add 2 tbsp of water and mix through. Remove from heat and set aside.
Take the tofu out of the air fryer and coat it in the glaze, ensuring all pieces are covered. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the tofu.
Return the tofu to the air fryer and bake again at 200°C for 5 minutes.
We literally make tonnes of granola each week and here we show how easy, accessible and delicious it is to make. The basic framework for granola that we follow is 50% oats of choice, 10% sweetener, 10% fat of choice, 10% nuts, 10% seeds and 10% dried fruit. Here we make it in an instant brand airfryer, we find them brilliant. Link here to get 15% off with the code: HAPPY
Healthier Granola in an airfryer
We love Granola!! We literally make tons of it every week to sell across Ireland and beyond. This is a really tasty crunchy granola that you can make in your air fryer. It goes great on porridge, on its own with your non-dairy milk of choice or yoghurt of your choice, or else have it as a healthy snack. Store in an airtight container and it will easily last for up to 6 months.
Takes
Serves
Ingredients
250gJumbo oats
50mlMaple syrup
50gCoconut oilor other neutral tasting oil such as sunflower
Pinchof salt
25gDried mango
10gDessicated coconut
25gGoji
40gCashews
10gFlaked almond
10gSunflower seeds
40gPumpkin seeds
Instructions
Method
Preheat the oven to 160℃.
Melt the coconut oil by putting in a small pot on a medium heat till melted (about 3 minutes).
In a large bowl, mix all the dry ingredients together – oat flakes, nuts, seeds, desiccated coconut with a tiny pinch of salt. Make sure to leave the dried fruit as they will be mixed at the very end once the granola is cool. If you prefer to eat your nuts raw, then leave them aside with your dried fruit, otherwise include them for a crunchier more flavourful nut.
In a separate bowl/jug, mix the wet ingredients – the maple syrup and the oil together into a wet mix.
Add the wet mix into the dry mix bowl and mix thoroughly so that each flake, nut and seed gets an even coating.
Transfer the mix to the air fryer basket and spread it out evenly in a thin layer. (If it is not spread out evenly it will steam as well as bake and result in some soft and some crunchy bits in your granola).
Put basket in air fryer and cook for 20 minutes in the preheated air fryer at 180C.
While your granola is baking in the oven, get your dried fruit ready in a bowl. If you are using the dried mango you will need to cut it with a scissors/knife into bite size pieces.
Once the granola is baked, leave it to cool for 20 minutes. Then add the dried fruit and mix.
Once properly cooled, store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
This recipe takes just 25 minutes to make and lets you customise your Nutella to your taste. If you prefer a more chocolatey version, simply increase the amount of chocolate. If you like it sweeter, just add more maple syrup. It’s incredibly easy and tastes fantastic!
Takes 20 minutesminutes
Serves 10
Ingredients
200ghazelnuts
1/2tspvanilla
1/3tspsalt
60gchocolate
Instructions
Preheat the oven:Preheat the oven to 180°C.
Roast the hazelnuts:Spread the hazelnuts on a baking tray and roast them for 10-12 minutes until the skins turn dark brown.
Remove the skins:Pour the roasted hazelnuts into a clean tea towel and rub them for 1-2 minutes to loosen the skins. Discard the skins and keep the roasted hazelnuts.
Make the hazelnut butter:Add the de-skinned hazelnuts to a food processor or high-speed blender and blend until they begin to turn into nut butter. This may take 2-4 minutes, depending on your machine. If your appliance starts to overheat, stop and allow it to cool down to avoid damaging the motor.
Melt the chocolate:Melt the chocolate using a bain-marie (double boiler) or microwave.
Blend the ingredients:Add the melted chocolate, salt, and vanilla extract to the hazelnut butter.Blend until the mixture is super smooth.
Store and enjoy:Transfer the Nutella to a sealed jar and store it in the fridge for 1-2 weeks. Enjoy it on toast, pancakes, or straight from the spoon!
Organic, fresh, seasonal produce directly from our regenerative farm to you!
What is The Happy Pear Organic Farm?
The Farm is a 4 acre regenerative organic farm growing seasonal fruit & veg and supplying it direct to the local community via a weekly veg box scheme.
The Goal
The farm exists to connect the local community to its food and to create a financially viable blueprint for small scale farms that is easily replicable for others to do.
We are now offering the best organic veggies direct to your door. The veg is grown using organic and regenerative techniques just off the main street in Kilcoole, Co Wicklow.
Sign up to a weekly subscription of the Seasonal Organic Farm Produce
Each week, you’ll receive:
The best and freshest seasonal veg that’s available on the farm. Choose to have it delivered to your door for a small extra fee or click here for more details on the pickup location options.
A weekly newsletter filled with photos from the farm, seasonal recipes featuring the veg that’s in the box, inspiration, and cooking tips for the produce
The Happy Pear farm is a 4 acre organic, regenerative farm based in Kilcoole, Co Wicklow just 10 mins south of Greystones, focused on minimum till or no dig practices where we not only adhere to the current organic growing standards but also focus on improving the soil microbe health and increasing the biodiversity around the farm through planting a mix of different pollinator species.
We produce up to 40 different crops across the full year and we provide these through a number of different channels. Our central focus is on our weekly veg box scheme where you can subscribe to receive a weekly veg box of the freshest local and in season veg and can collect it from a number of different collection points in the local area or have it delivered to their door.
We provide as much organic veg to The Happy Pear kitchen and shop in Greystones as we can across the year, we provide fresh herbs to our production facility and we sell a number of crops to local stores around the wider Greystones area.
We also have a purpose built indoor farm specialising in growing the most nutrient dense foods on the planet namely living sprouts, micro greens and wheatgrass which are available across Ireland through SuperValu, Centra and through leading foodie stores such as Nolan’s of Clontarf, Fresh supermarket, The Hopsack etc.
We began this venture in 2009 and have been using certified organic seeds since the beginning and in 2018, our Bean Mix and Alfalfa sprouts have become certified organic products themselves.
Each sprout we grow has a range of different benefits. Our Organic Bean Mix is high in protein and high in fibre. Our Organic Alfalfa Sprouts are great for stabilising blood sugar levels and are packed full of digestive enzymes making them easier to digest and absorb. Our Super Sprout Mix not only tastes great but is high in protein and a great source of fibre.
Choose Your Veg Box
Large Veg Box
A changing selection of 9-10 organic seasonal veggies. For an idea of what to expect, take a look at next week’s box contents
We’re super excited to share this episode with you, where we chat with Nicole Masters, a soil health expert and agro-ecologist.
Episode 117
We’ve always been passionate about sustainability and living in harmony with nature, so talking to Nicole was a dream come true for us. She really knows her stuff when it comes to healthy soil, and we learned so much from her about how we can make a positive impact on the environment through regenerative agriculture and composting.
One of the things we loved about this episode was how Nicole made such a complex topic so accessible and interesting. We asked her all sorts of questions about soil health, from the benefits of cover crops to the importance of microbial diversity, and she had so many great insights to share.
We hope you enjoyed this episode as much as we did!
Lots of Love,
Dave & Steve
This episode is sponsored by Vivobarefoot Footwear. Vivobarefoot Footwear have given our listeners an exclusive 15% discount when you enter the code HAPPYPEAR15
Genuinely these are the only shoes you will see Dave & Steve wearing!
If you would like to find our more, Nicole at Integrity Soils has a range of self-directed online courses so you can read the health of your soil like a pro! Deepen your knowledge and hands-on skills to measure soil health at any scale. If you’ve been unsure about current on-farm practices and are looking to make sense of the endless recommendations that may not “add up,” these courses will give you the foundations to support you in making informed decisions to improve the health of your soil.
We make a huge amount of sourdough focaccia pizza in our bakery, which normally takes 24 hours. However, this simplified version takes only 2 hours and still results in a beautifully big, fluffy focaccia pizza!
Takes
Serves 2
Ingredients
250gwhite flour
200mlwarm water
7gdried active yeast
15gsugar(optional for a sweeter dough and more caramelisation)
9gsalt
5tbspolive oil
50gveg toppings(mushroom, pepper and olives work great!)
Instructions
Prepare the Dough:In a large bowl, combine the lukewarm water and yeast, stirring until well mixed. Add the flour, sugar (if using), and salt. Carefully bring the mixture together in the bowl. Knead for about 10 minutes to develop gluten. The dough will start off sticky and wet but will come together after working it for 10 minutes, becoming similar to sticky chewing gum. Alternatively, you can use a stand mixer with the dough hook on medium speed for 6-8 minutes
First Proofing:Grease a 1lb loaf tin with 1 tbsp of olive oil, then add the dough to the tin. Cover with a towel to retain moisture and leave the dough in a warm spot to proof until it doubles in size—this should take 1-2 hours, depending on the room temperature. If using an air fryer, you can proof the dough on the "reheat" setting at 49°C for 45 minutes until it doubles or even triples in size.
Prepare the Toppings:Thinly slice the vegetables you're using as toppings.
Top and Dimple the Dough:Once the dough has doubled in size, sprinkle the prepared vegetables over the dough, followed by 4 tbsp of olive oil and a generous pinch of salt. Coat your fingers with a little oil to prevent sticking, and begin to "play the focaccia piano" by dimpling the dough. The vegetables should press into the dough as you create thick indents.
Second Proofing:Cover the dough with a towel and allow it to proof a second time until it doubles in size again. Alternatively, you can speed up the process by proofing in the air fryer on the "reheat" setting at 49°C for 20 minutes.
Bake the Focaccia:Lightly grease your fingers with some oil, then add 1 tbsp of olive oil to the dough. Dimple the dough again and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Preheat the air fryer to 170°C and bake the focaccia for 15 minutes.
Add the Pesto:Remove the focaccia from the air fryer, spoon over 2 tbsp of pesto, and bake for a further 5 minutes at 170°C. Take out and leave to cool before serving.
Literally means ‘little meats,’ but here we use jackfruit as the base. It’s braised and fried with Mexican spices and served with a charred mango salsa, smashed avocado, and pickled cabbage. This makes a delicious meal any time of the day!
Takes
Serves 2
Ingredients
Jackfruit carne
1small red onion
1clove garlic
½fresh red chilli
400gjackfruit
1tbspcumin seeds
1tbspdried oregano
2bay leaves
2tbsptamari
1tspsalt
3tbsptomato puree
Smashed Avocado
1ripe avocado
½a lime
Pinch of salt
Charred Mango Salsa
1ripe mango
200gcherry tomatoes (ideally assorted colours)
½red onion
15gfresh coriander
½a lime
Other Ingredients
50gpickled cabbage (sauerkraut)
6corn or wheat tacos
Instructions
Prep the ingredients for the jackfruit carne:Peel and dice the red onion and garlic.Finely dice the red chilli.Drain, rinse, and finely chop the jackfruit.
Fry the base flavours:Heat 1 tsp of oil in a wide-bottomed pan on high heat.Add the cumin seeds, diced onion, and chilli. Fry for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add garlic and jackfruit:Add the diced garlic and chopped jackfruit to the pan.Fry for an additional 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Incorporate the spices and liquids:Stir in the oregano, bay leaves, tamari, tomato purée, and salt.Mix well until all the flavours are evenly combined.
Braise the mixture:Add 2 tbsp of water and allow the mixture to braise, stirring to deglaze any bits stuck to the pan.Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remove from the heat and set aside.
Make the charred mango salsa:Cut the cheeks off the mango and char them in a hot pan until golden on the flesh side.Remove the skin and cut the flesh into small pieces.Quarter the cherry tomatoes, peel and finely dice the red onion, and finely chop the coriander.Mix these ingredients together with the juice of half a lime.Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Prepare the smashed avocado:Remove the flesh from the avocado and mash it with the juice of the remaining lime half and a pinch of salt.Mash until smooth, then taste and adjust the seasoning.
Char the tacos:Lightly char the corn or wheat tacos in a dry pan until slightly crispy.
Assemble the tacos:Spread a layer of smashed avocado on each taco.Add the mango salsa, pickled cabbage, and jackfruit carne.Repeat for the remaining tacos and fillings.Serve and enjoy!
This is so tasty – truly delicious and worth the effort! We use roasted red peppers and shredded oyster mushrooms for a great texture – this makes a wonderful spring or summer dish. If you can’t find wild garlic, you can replace it with finely diced spring onions.
Takes 30 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
300gpasta(we used Casarecce)
250gcherry tomatoes
150goyster mushrooms
340groasted peppers
2tbsptamari
1red onion
½chilli
35gwild garlic or 3 spring onions
2sprigs rosemary
200gyoghurt
2tbspolive oil
Instructions
Cook the pastaFill and boil the kettle. Once boiled, fill a large saucepan with the hot water and a generous pinch of salt. Add the pasta and cook according to the packet instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and rinse, reserving 1 cup (approx. 240ml) of the pasta water.
Prepare the vegetablesPeel and finely dice the onion.Quarter the cherry tomatoes.Finely dice half the chilli.Shred the oyster mushrooms using a fork until they are completely torn apart.Finely dice the wild garlic or scallions.Remove the rosemary leaves from the stalks and finely chop.
Cook the vegetablesHeat a non-stick frying pan on high heat. Add the olive oil and, once hot, fry the diced onion for 3-4 minutes until it starts to brown around the edges.Add the shredded mushrooms and rosemary to the pan, cooking for another 4 minutes. Then, stir in the tamari (or soy sauce), ensuring each mushroom absorbs the flavour.Add the quartered cherry tomatoes and wild garlic/scallions, along with a pinch of salt, and mix well. Cook while you finely chop the roasted red peppers.
Add the roasted peppersDiscard any brine from the roasted peppers (or save it for pickling), then add the chopped peppers to the pan. Mix well and cook for 2-3 minutes.
Create the creamy saucePour in half of the reserved pasta water (approx. 100ml), along with the yoghurt. Stir through and let it simmer for 2 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Combine pastaAdd the cooked pasta to the pan and mix well to coat in the sauce. Serve immediately – and if possible, enjoy in the sunshine for an extra-special meal!
Today we had an amazing conversation with the wonderful author of 14 parenting books, Sarah Ockwell-Smith.
Sarah studied psychology and after becoming a mother began to dive deep into the psychology and science of parenting. She has recently re-released her book: The Gentle Parenting book
Episode 115
In this episode we started off by discussing the history of parenting advice and how it has evolved over time. Sarah explained how in the past, parenting was much more community-based, with family members and neighbors providing support and guidance. However, with the industrial revolution, families became more isolated and parenting advice began to be sold as a commodity.
We then delved into current parenting trends, such as attachment parenting and positive parenting, and how these approaches have become more popular in recent years. Sarah emphasized that while it’s great to have a framework to work within, ultimately a parent’s own intuition is the most important part of parenting.
We also talked about the importance of empathy and understanding in parenting, and how it can be challenging to stay calm and patient in the face of difficult behavior from our children. Sarah provided some great tips on how to handle these situations with grace and compassion.
Overall, it was an incredibly insightful conversation and we learned so much from Sarah. We hope you enjoy listening to this episode as much as we enjoyed recording it!
Enjoy!
Lots of Love,
Dave & Steve
This episode is sponsored by Instant Vortex Plus VersaZone Air Fryer . Currently on special offer: now £159.99 a saving of £60 until 8th May. Follow this link to find out more: https://bit.ly/3KPCiEj
Produced by Sean Cahill & Sara Fawsitt
Available now from all good podcast providers:
Za’atar Charred Cauliflower with Tahini Cream
Cauliflower is often seen as a bland vegetable—we used to dislike it growing up—but this dish will change all that! We char turmeric-infused cauliflower and serve it on top of a tahini cream, dressed with a za'atar glaze. This magnificent dish makes a wonderful centrepiece, packed with flavour, surprisingly filling, and beautiful to serve.
Takes 25 minutesminutes
Serves 3
Ingredients
Cauliflower
1cauliflower
1tbspground turmeric
2tbspcumin seeds
Tahini Cream
500gsoy yoghurt
8tbsplight tahini
1lemon (juiced)
Za'atar glaze
2tbsp za'atar
2tbsp tamari
1tbspmaple syrup
3tbsp oil
½tbspsmoked paprika
To serve
1pomegranate
Fresh coriander (or flat parsley)
Instructions
Fill and boil the kettle. Cut the cauliflower into 4 even quarters, including the leaves, and give it a good wash.
Remove the tender, smaller leaves and cut them in half lengthwise.
Place the cauliflower and leaves in a large saucepan, then fill it with the just-boiled water, a generous pinch of salt, and 1 tbsp of ground turmeric.
Cook on high heat for approximately 8–10 minutes until the cauliflower is cooked but still firm enough to hold its shape.
Drain and rinse the cauliflower, allowing it to dry for a minute.
For the tahini cream, mix together the tahini, soy yoghurt, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt until well combined and creamy.
Heat a wide-bottomed, non-stick pan on high heat and add 2 tbsp of oil. Once hot, add the cumin seeds, then carefully place the cauliflower quarters cut-side down in the pan. Cook each side until golden brown and charred.
While the cauliflower is cooking, mix together the ingredients for the za’atar glaze until well combined.
Finely dice the fresh coriander and deseed the pomegranate.
To serve, spread a generous amount of tahini cream on the bottom of a plate or a wide-bottomed bowl.
Place a charred cauliflower quarter, cut-side up, on top of the tahini cream.
Drizzle 2–3 tbsp of the za'atar glaze over the cauliflower, then garnish with pomegranate seeds and chopped coriander.
These brownies are so fudgy and indulgent, you will absolutely adore them! Based on our super popular tahini fudge brownies from the bakery, they are a real treat. One of the hardest parts is ensuring you let these fully cool so they hold their shape.
Takes 45 minutesminutes
Serves 8
Ingredients
200gsweet potato (50g cooked)
65 gvegan butter
100gchocolate
75mlwater
75gself raising flour
30gcornstarch
150gcaster sugar
Instructions
Prepare the Sweet Potato:Peel and chop the sweet potato into small bite-sized pieces. Place the sweet potato in a 1 lb loaf tin (approx. 450 g tin with high sides) and bake in the airfryer at 160°C for 15 minutes.
Melt the Chocolate and Butter:Break the chocolate into small pieces (similar to chocolate chips). Melt the vegan butter over a bain-marie (water bath). Once the butter is almost melted, add in half of the chocolate and the water. Stir until fully melted, then remove from the heat.Add the baked sweet potato to the chocolate mixture and blend until super smooth. You can use a blender, stick blender, or food processor for this step.
Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:In a separate bowl, mix the self-raising flour, cornstarch, and caster sugar together. Make a well in the centre and pour in the blended chocolate and sweet potato mixture. Stir until well combined.Gently fold in the remaining chocolate pieces.
Bake the Brownies:Line the loaf tin with baking paper and pour in the brownie batter.Bake in the airfryer at 170°C for 25 minutes.Once baked, leave the brownies to cool and set for 1 to 2 hours before slicing. Though waiting is difficult, it’s well worth it!
Mary is a reformed internationally acclaimed landscape designer who launched her career at the Chelsea flower show in 2002, being the youngest contestant to win gold. The story of which was made into a 2016 movie called “Dare to be Wild”.
Episode 114
She is a bestselling author, inspirational speaker, occasional television presenter and founder of the global movement “We are the ARK”, a practical groundswell movement who’s aim is to shift the environmental game in nature’s favour.
“The time for gardens as canvases for our creative pleasure is over. Everything must change and if we are to save the planet, then we must start with our own patches of it. It’s time to reimagine our work as gardeners, to become leaders in the race to save our beautiful planet, to save ourselves.”
We had the privildege of recording this episode in person, it was truly inspiring, chilling and brilliant. Mary is wonderful!
This is a really straightforward and tasty lasagne that’s low in fat. Instead of a traditional flour-based white sauce, we make a super tasty and simple cashew ‘cheese’ sauce. It bakes perfectly in the air fryer, leaving you wanting more!
Takes
Serves 6
Ingredients
For the Lasagne
250glasagne sheets(½ pack)
For the White Sauce (Cashew Cream)
150graw cashew nuts
300mloat milk
3tbspnutritional yeast(optional)
1tsplemon juice
⅓tspsalt
½tspblack pepper
½tspgarlic powder(optional)
For the Tomato Sauce
1onion(peeled and finely chopped)
3clovesgarlic(minced)
1medium carrot(grated)
150gmushrooms(finely sliced)
1sweet potato(350g, cut into bite-sized pieces)
½red chilli(finely chopped, omit if you prefer less spice)
2x 400g tins chopped tomatoes
100gtomato purée
1tbspmaple syrup
1tspsalt
½tspblack pepper
2tbsptamari or soy sauce
Instructions
Preheat the Air FryerPreheat the air fryer to 180°C.
Cook the Sweet PotatoChop the sweet potato into bite-sized pieces. Place them in the air fryer with a pinch of salt and 5 sprays of oil (or ¼ tsp).Bake for 20 minutes, then set aside.
Make the Cashew CreamPlace the cashew nuts in a small pot and cover with boiling water. Simmer for 10 minutes to soften them. Once softened, drain and rinse the cashews.Put all the cashew cream ingredients (oat milk, cashews, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder) into a blender. Blend until smooth, which should take about 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Make the Tomato SauceHeat a wide non-stick pan on high heat. Once hot, add a few sprays of oil, then the chopped onion, mushrooms, and a pinch of salt. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring regularly. If the vegetables start to stick, add 1 tbsp water or a few sprays of oil to deglaze the pan.Add the tamari/soy sauce and mix to coat the vegetables. Next, add the grated carrot, garlic, and chilli. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring regularly. If any vegetables start to stick, add water or oil as before. Cook until the onions begin to brown at the edges and the mushrooms are reduced.Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, maple syrup, salt, black pepper, and the baked sweet potato. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set aside.
Assemble the LasagnePreheat the air fryer to 180°C again. Spread a thin layer of cashew cream on the bottom of a lasagne tray.Add a layer of lasagne sheets, breaking some to fit and ensuring no overlaps (overlapping sheets won't cook properly).Spread half of the tomato sauce evenly over the lasagne sheets.Add another layer of lasagne sheets on top of the tomato sauce.Spread half of the remaining cashew cream over the lasagne sheets.Add the rest of the tomato sauce and spread evenly.Add another layer of lasagne sheets.Finally, top with the remaining cashew cream.
Cook the LasagnePlace the assembled lasagne in the air fryer and cook at 180°C for 20 minutes.
ServeOnce cooked, allow the lasagne to cool slightly. To cut the lasagne easily, use kitchen scissors. Serve and enjoy!
This stunning cake takes humble banana bread to the next level, transforming it into a show-stopping centrepiece. Inspired by a tarte Tatin, this cake features caramelised bananas and a rich, moist texture with the added indulgence of chocolate chips.
Takes 1 hourhour
Serves 12
Ingredients
3bananas(for caramelised topping)
150gcaster sugar
2tbspwater(for caramel)
100gchocolate chips
200gself-raising flour
1½tspground cinnamon
120mlsunflower oil
150gmaple syrup
2tbspground flaxseeds
6tbspwater(for flax egg)
3bananas(for the cake batter)
50gwalnuts(roughly chopped)
Instructions
Preheat the oven:Preheat your oven to 160°C (fan) / 180°C (conventional).
Prepare the cake tin:Line a 9-inch springform tin with baking parchment. Slice the 3 bananas for the topping lengthwise and place them, cut side down, in the prepared tin.
Make the caramel:In a wide saucepan, heat the 150g caster sugar over medium heat. Add the 2 tbsp water and stir just once. From this point, avoid stirring and simply swirl the saucepan occasionally. Allow the sugar to melt and turn golden, forming a smooth caramel. Stir towards the end if necessary to achieve a smooth consistency. Remove from heat before the caramel turns too dark, as it can quickly burn. Pour the caramel evenly over the bananas in the tin and leave to cool.
Prepare the flax egg:In a small bowl, mix the ground flaxseeds with 6 tbsp water. Leave to sit for 5 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken and coagulate.
Prepare the cake batter:In a large bowl, combine the self-raising flour, ground cinnamon, and chopped walnuts.In a blender, combine the 3 peeled bananas, sunflower oil, maple syrup, and the flax egg mixture. Blend until smooth.If you don't have a blender, mash the bananas in a separate bowl and whisk together with the oil, syrup, and flax egg until well mixed.Add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until you achieve a smooth batter. Fold in the chocolate chips.
Assemble the cake:Pour the cake batter over the caramel-coated bananas in the tin, spreading it evenly.
Bake the cake:Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.
Flip the cake:Once baked, run a palette knife around the edges of the tin to loosen the cake.Place a flat plate or board on top of the tin, then carefully flip the cake so that the caramelised bananas are on top. If any bananas stick to the tin, gently scrape them off and arrange them back on the cake.
Cool and serve:Allow the cake to cool slightly before slicing. Serve and enjoy!
For allergens, see highlighted ingredients. May contain traces of Nuts.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
Typical
per 100g
Energy
373kJ / 89kcal
Fat
4.0g
Of which Saturates
2.7g
Carbohydrate
9.7g
Of which Sugars
4.5g
Fibre
3.0g
Protein
2.1g
Salt
0.6g
This Pack Contains 1 Serving
Vibrant and delicious shoots that are wonderful added to any salad, for garnishing any meal or fab in any sandwich. These shoots are high in protein and a super nutrient dense food.
INGREDIENTS
Peas (100%).
ALLERGEN INFORMATION
For allergens, see highlighted ingredients.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
Typical
per 100g
Energy
123kJ
29kcal
Fat
0.3g
of which Saturates
0.1g
Carbohydrate
3.5g
of which Sugars
0.7g
Fibre
2.1g
Protein
4.2g
Salt
0.01g
Charred Aubergine Tagliatelle
If you enjoy creamy aubergines and a smoked, spiced mushroom sauce served with tagliatelle, this dish is magnificent. The aubergines are charred over a flame for a smoky flavour, and the mushrooms are shredded for a pulled, “meaty” texture. This is an incredibly tasty meal!
Takes 26 minutesminutes
Serves 3
Ingredients
400gtagliatelle
150goyster mushrooms
2aubergines
1carrot
1onion
3clovesgarlic
100gtomato purée
700gtomato passata
1tbspmaple syrup
1.5tbsptamari
Salt and pepper(to taste)
Basil(to serve)
Instructions
Char the aubergines: Using tongs, cook the aubergines over a gas flame for 5-10 minutes until they are charred and cooked through to the centre. A fork should easily pierce the aubergines when they are ready. The centre should be soft and break down effortlessly.Alternatively if you don’t have a gas flame, cut the aubergines in half and place them face down on a baking tray. Sprinkle with a generous pinch of salt and bake at 200°C for about 30 minutes until they are soft enough to be easily scooped out or torn apart.
Prepare the vegetables: Peel and dice the onion and garlic. Finely dice the carrot into 1/2 cm cubes. Using a fork, shred the oyster mushrooms to give them a distinct, pulled texture. Be careful not to scrape your fingers when doing this.
Cook the vegetables: Heat a non-stick pan over high heat and add 1 tablespoon of oil. Once hot, add the onion, carrot, and a pinch of salt. Cook for 3-4 minutes, then add the mushrooms and garlic. Cook for another 4-5 minutes until the onions and mushrooms start to brown at the edges.
Flavour the sauce: Add the tamari and mix it through, allowing the mushrooms to absorb the flavour. Next, add the tomato passata, tomato purée, and maple syrup. Stir well and taste the sauce. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
Chop the aubergine: Once the aubergines are done, chop them into small pieces and stir them into the sauce.
Cook the pasta: Follow the instructions on the packet to cook the tagliatelle. Once done, drain and rinse the pasta, then add it to the sauce.
Finish and serve: Finely chop the basil and sprinkle it over the top. Mix everything together, double-check the seasoning, and enjoy!
Here we have pulled together some of our favourite ways to use red cabbage. We know it can sometimes be challenging to know what to do with it! It packs a punch of vitamins C and K, along with a synergy of antioxidants that promote overall well-being. Its deep, purple-hued leaves bring not only a pop of colour to your plate but also a spectrum of nutritional benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties and digestive support.
Red cabbage is a chameleon in the kitchen, capable of starring in a variety of dishes. From the tangy crunch of a fresh slaw to the comforting warmth of a braised side, its culinary potential is boundless. Whether you’re pickling, fermenting, sautéing, or tossing it raw into salads, red cabbage adds a flavourful twist to any meal. Let’s embark on a journey of taste and health as we explore the delicious possibilities of red cabbage in your kitchen.
Red Cabbage Sauerkraut
Why not turn it into homemade probiotics? It takes 15 mins of prep and a week or so to ferment till you have this superfood probiotic red cabbage powerhouse!!
Indulge in the crisp, refreshing flavours of our Red Cabbage & Apple Salad, a dish that celebrates the harmonious blend of sweet and tangy. This salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a powerhouse of health. Perfect for a light lunch or as a side to your main course. Add spinach too if you so desire!
Steve came up with this recipe about 15 years ago and we are still making it in the cafe today as it's so popular and is really packed with nutrition. With a rich variety of raw vegetables, sprouted beans, and a super flavourful dressing, it's a refreshing addition to any meal. Only dress the salad that you plan to consume immediately for the best freshness and crunch. An undressed salad can last for 3-4 days, while a dressed salad will keep for less than 1 day. To reduce the calories simply replace the oil with apple juice.
Takes 20 minutesminutes
Serves 6
Ingredients
1mediumcarrot
250gred cabbage
1regularred pepper
100gsprouted beanslike mung beans or aduki beans, can be replaced with bean sprouts
50gsugar snap peas1 handful
30gsunflower seeds
30gsesame seeds
100gbaby spinach
For Dressing
1Thumb sized piece Fresh Gingerapprox 8g
1cloveGarlic
1½tbspof Tamari or Soy Sauce
1Lemon (juice of)
¼medium Red Chilli
2tablespoonsMaple Syrup
60mlsesame oil or other oil
Instructions
Prep the veg: Grate the carrot and red cabbage or if your knife skills are good finely slice the cabbage into long thin stips and julienne the carrot into small matchstick size cuts.. Finely slice the red pepper (removing the seeds and stalk) and slice the sugar snap peas lengthwise so you open them up into thin long strips.
Toast seeds: Toast the sesame and sunflower seeds in a dry pan over high heat for about 5 minutes, until they turn slightly brown and start to pop
Put salad veg in a bowl: Combine the cabbage, carrot, peppers, sugar snap peas, sprouted beans, and baby spinach in a large salad bowl.
Blend the dressing: For the dressing, blend together all ingredients for the dressing in a blender or food processor until nice and smooth and the garlic and ginger and fully blended.
Dress, mix & serve: Add the dressing to the salad and mix until well coated. Sprinkle toasted seeds on top and enjoy!
This week’s episode is with Mary-Frances O’Connor, a psychologist and author of “The Grieving Brain: The Surprising Science of How We Learn from Love and Loss.”
Episode 112
Mary-Frances conducts studies to better understand the grief process both psychologically and physiologically. She is a leader in the field of prolonged grief, a clinical condition in which people do not adjust to the acute feelings of grief and show increases in yearning, avoidance, and rumination.
Her work primarily focuses on trying to tease out the mechanisms that cause this ongoing and severe reaction to loss. In particular, she is curious about the neurobiological, immune, and cardiovascular factors that vary between individual responses to grief.
In this episode we explore the different facets of grief, how it affects our brain, how to deal with it and how we can support others.
A heavy topic, and we are complete novices here but we learnt a lot and hope that you did to.
Lots of love,
Dave & Steve
Available now from all good podcast providers:
This episode is sponsored by Vivobarefoot Footwear. Vivobarefoot Footwear have given our listeners an exclusive 15% discount when you enter the code HAPPYPEAR15
Genuinely these are the only shoes you will see Dave & Steve wearing!
Produced by Sean Cahill and Sara Fawsitt
Meaty Mushroom Shawarma
This Meaty Mushroom Shawarma recipe is magical and surprisingly easy to make—definitely one of our favourite meals! It’s tactile, messy, and absolutely delicious, with the flavours lingering in the best way. Our friend Lucy, who grew up in the Middle East, has given it her seal of approval!
Takes 20 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
2flatbreads
200goyster mushrooms
Seasoning
1tbspsumac
1/2tspturmeric
1tbspsmoked paprika
1/2tspchilli powder
1/2tspblack pepper
3tbsptamari
1.5tbspmaple syrup
2tbspoil
Salad
10cherry tomatoes
1/3cucumber
15gfresh coriander
Tahini Sauce
50gtahini
100gnatural yoghurt
1clovegarlic
Juice of 1 lemon
Pinchof salt
Additional
Pickled red onion
Instructions
Prepare the mushrooms: Tear the oyster mushrooms into pieces that can be spread wide when pressed.Place them in a bowl, add the seasoning (sumac, turmeric, smoked paprika, chilli powder, black pepper, tamari, maple syrup, and oil), and mix well.
Cook the mushrooms: Heat a wide non-stick frying pan on high heat and add 1 tbsp of oil. Once hot, spread the mushrooms in a single layer, ensuring there’s enough space for them to char. Using another clean pan, press the mushrooms for about 20 seconds to maximise charring and remove excess moisture for a meatier texture. Cook for 1-2 minutes, turn, and press again until the mushrooms are charred and cooked through. Remove from the pan and roughly chop.
Make the salad: Finely dice the cucumber, coriander, and cherry tomatoes. Mix them in a bowl with a pinch of salt. Set aside.
Prepare the tahini sauce: Peel and finely dice the garlic. In a bowl, combine the tahini, yoghurt, lemon juice, garlic, and a pinch of salt.Mix until the sauce emulsifies into a thick cream. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
Assemble the shawarma: Spread a generous layer of the tahini sauce over each flatbread. Add the coriander, tomato, and cucumber salad, followed by the charred mushrooms. Top with pickled red onions and enjoy!
Adopt a predominantly whole food plant based (WFPB) way of eating. Eating a range of whole plant foods helps with much more than just the symptoms of menopause. The same diet that helps with menopausal symptoms, also helps with better aging, reduced dementia and Alzheimer’s risk, reduced heart disease and diabetes and reduced breast, prostate, bowel, womb and ovarian cancer risks, the biggest killers in the modern day.
Eating a whole food plant based diet means you will eat calorie light, nutrient dense, gut microbiome promoting fibre rich colourful foods.
Focus on eating a plant strong diet full of colourful micronutrient and antioxidant rich vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts and seeds and intact minimally processed whole grains. To this way of eating, one should add plenty of herbs and spices as these increase the antioxidant power of any dish by as much as 200%. Make water the drink of choice.
As this way of eating is rich in fibre, it helps promote healthy gut bacteria (healthy gut microbiome) and reduces the incidence of common but serious life threatening diseases such as heart disease and cancer as well as dementia through complex mechanisms. Learn how to improve gut health.
Avoid a diet high in trans fats found in junk and ultra processed foods (biscuits/cakes/chocolates/ready meals) as they promote inflammation.
Avoid saturated fats found almost exclusively in animal products (eggs, dairy, fish, chicken and red meat which along with the growth hormone, insulin growth factor, hormones, chemicals, pesticides and antibiotics promote oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, the latter being the base from where most lifestyle diseases arise.
The less processed a food is, the better it is for you. That is why it is best to avoid highly refined foods and stick to fibre rich whole plant foods.
Avoid oils and fruit juices as they tend to be devoid of fibre and as a result do not have the same amount or variety of micronutrients that are so good for our health.
To help reduce hot flushes and night sweats:
Breakfast: 250 ml of soya milk with steel cut porridge oats. Add 1-2 tbsp of flaxseed powder and 1 tsp of chia seeds to the oats and soak in hot water. Cook with a cup of soya milk (organic, unsweetened or homemade if possible). Add nuts and fresh and dried fruit. This gives you a good start with the fibre rich, plant oestrogen rich, omega-3 rich plant-based breakfast or brunch.
Mid-morning snack: handful of edamame beans or soya nuts or berries or hummus with crudités.
Lunch: Large rainbow coloured salad with beans or chickpeas or hummus or vegetable bean soups, minestrone soups or dals.
Avoid alcohol and smoking as both these can make hot flushes much worse.
Caffeine containing drinks can worsen hot flushes.
Avoid a diet high in trans fats and processed foods (biscuits/cakes/chocolates/ready meals/fried foods/sugary foods) as they promote inflammation through a variety of mechanisms.
Avoid saturated fats found almost exclusively in animal products (eggs, dairy, fish, chicken and red meat which along with the growth hormone, insulin growth factor, hormones, chemicals, pesticides and antibiotics promote oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, the latter being the base from where most lifestyle diseases arise.
Understanding the Menopause: Navigating the Physical and Emotional Changes with Our Expert Course
The menopause starts when a woman has no period for a full 12 months. The typical age a women starts the menopause is age 51. The period before menopause when some menopause symptoms might begin or when their might be some inconsistency in the regularity of your period is called the perimenopause. The menopause can be a challenging time in a women’s life but it does not need to be the case. As hormone levels drop, primarily oestrogen, women may experience symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, weight gain, difficulty sleeping and mood swings. These symptoms, along with the increased risk of certain health conditions such as heart disease and dementia, can make the menopause a difficult time. However, with the right support and facts, women can navigate this period with ease and emerge stronger and healthier.
Overview of the Menopause
Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. It typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 with the average being somewhere around 51, although it can occur earlier or later. During this time, the ovaries stop producing eggs and the production of oestrogen and other hormones decreases.
What There is to Learn about the Menopause
The menopause is a complex process that involves many factors, including hormonal changes, genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Women who understand the menopause and how it affects their bodies can better manage its symptoms and improve their overall health and well-being and even thrive during this period of their live. This can include learning about lifestyle changes such as exercise and diet, as well as effective treatments for specific symptoms such as hot flushes, sleep disturbances, and mood swings.
There are also important health considerations related to the menopause, such as the increased risk of certain conditions such as heart disease, osteoporosis, and type 2 diabetes. Understanding these risks and taking steps to mitigate them, such as getting regular check-ups and adopting healthy lifestyle practices can help women maintain good health as they age.
Why Our Course Can Help
The Happy Menopause course is a 4 week course fronted up by Dr. Nitu Bajekal, Senior Consultant Gynaecologist and other medical professionals. It is designed to help women understand the menopause and empower them to make lifestyle changes to help them to thrive during this period of transition. It includes the learnings from real experts to help you to better deal with the often negative symptoms.
The course will give you the facts about menopause and debunk many of the myths. It gives you meal plans to start to cook and eat as well as hundreds of delcious recipes. There are daily live classes for you to join as well as so much more. Whether you are experiencing symptoms of the menopause or are simply looking for information and support, our course has something to offer.
We understand that the menopause can be a confusing and overwhelming time, but with the right support and education, women can come through it feeling stronger and more confident. The Happy Menopause Course is here to help you to thrive during this period and to make the most of it. We look forward to helping you on your journey.
As women go through menopause, they often experience various physical and emotional changes due to the decline in hormones in their body, primarily oestrogen. Some common symptoms include hot flushes, night sweats, weight gain, mood swings, poor quality sleep and brain fog or loss of confidence. While HRT (hormonal replacement therapy) is a popular treatment for some women, many women would prefer to use natural approaches to mitigate these negative symptoms for a more gentle and holistic approach.
Here are 7 natural menopause treatments that have been shown to work for many women:
Phytoestrogens: These are plant-based compounds found in foods like soybeans, lentils, chickpeas, flaxseeds, and almonds. Eating these foods can help relieve menopause symptoms by mimicking the effects of estrogen in the body. A great way to do this is to add a tin/can of cooked beans or chickpeas to your dinner or to eat hummus, which is made of chickpeas. Beans are also high in fibre and low in calories so will aid in weight loss.
Herbs: Certain herbs have been used for centuries to treat menopause symptoms. Black cohosh is well-known for relieving hot flushes, while red clover can help regulate mood swings. Other helpful herbs include dong quai, ginseng, and evening primrose oil. The above are rare medicinal herbs, however all herbs are high micro nutrients and contain compounds that will help regulate your bodies systems. Choose herbs such as coriander, mint, basil, parsley or whatever fresh herbs you like. All will have beneficial properties.
Acupuncture: This is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting fine needles into specific points on your body. Acupuncture has been found to be effective in reducing hot flushes and helping with de-stressing as well as helping to improve sleep quality for menopausal women.
Mind-body practices: Practices such as meditation, yoga, mindfulness and tai chi can help relieve stress and anxiety, which are common symptoms of menopause. They help reduce stress and bring you back to the present moment.
Eating anti-inflammatory foods. Some of the side effects of menopause are rooted in inflammation. Much of the modern western diet of animal based foods and processed foods cause an inflammatory response to our bodies. By eating more whole plant foods that are naturally anti-inflammatory, these foods will help to ease symptoms by reducing inflammation.
Hormonal balancing whole plant foods: Whole plant foods support hormone production and help balance many systems in your body. Whole plant foods include fresh fruits, vegetables, beans & legumes, wholegrains and nuts and seeds.
Exercise: Regular exercise can reduce the severity of hot flushes, improve mood, reduce stress, boost energy levels and improve sleep quality. Sometimes motivation for exercise can wain during menopause so it is a matter of picking something that you think you will enjoy and getting started. Ideally you have a friend join you or someone to help hold you accountable and to support you who is on the same journey. Scheduling it into you week is also really important to make sure that it happens.
Remember, every woman’s experience of menopause is unique. However there are over arching lifestyle changes that will give you a really solid foundation in terms of your health and the menopausal phase of your life. We created The Happy Menopause Course, it is fronted up by Senior Consultant Gynaecologist Dr. Nitu Bejekal and other medical professionals. It gets great results and debunks a lot of myths and false facts about menopause.
Oestrogen levels can affect word recall, memory and so called ‘brain fog’ symptoms, and having levels that are both too low or indeed too high in some people can mean the sweet spot is hard to find. For some, HRT helps. Regular physical activity and spending time in nature helps, as well as prioritising sleep, trying out breathwork and meditation and avoiding alcohol. Learning new skills and managing stress are also useful.
Sample Lesson: Menopause 101 – also includes Perimenopause
Women are usually born with two ovaries (egg containing baskets or organs) although one can go through life with no repercussions if there is only one functioning ovary. Each ovary contains a huge number of eggs, in fact thousands which reduce in number over time through a process of natural loss every month. There is no way to increase or reduce this natural loss of eggs. Only a few hundred eggs are used in a woman’s lifetime. After the onset of puberty, the ovary releases an egg most months, a process known as ovulation.
Sample Lesson: What about Calcium?
Calcium is an important mineral for human survival. It is needed, as you probably already know, to keep our bones and teeth strong and healthy. Small amounts of calcium are also required for nerve function, to relax our muscles and for blood clotting.
Before the domestication of dairy cows was commonplace, many human populations evolved without dairy in their diet, consuming all the calcium they required from plants. Due to the artificial selection of sweetness, rather than nutritional content, many of the plant foods we consume today have lower levels of calcium than that of their ancestors.
Sample Lesson: Benefits of Soya in Menopause
A randomised controlled trial showed fantastic results showed Just 1/2 cup or 86 g of mature soya beans providing 55 to 60 g of isoflavones was associated with reduced frequency and severity of hot flushes by 84% and improved quality of life in vasomotor, psychosocial, physical, and sexual symptoms in postmenopausal women when followed for just 12 weeks. The women involved in this study were following a completely plant based diet during this time.
The Happy Pear Podcast
Today we have a special guest joining us, the one and only George Monbiot. George is an award-winning journalist, author, and environmental activist, and we’re so excited to have him here to chat with us.
Episode 112
In this episode, we dive deep into some really interesting topics with George, such as the importance of rewilding and how it can help combat climate change. He shares some amazing insights on how rewilding can not only benefit the environment, but also our mental health and well-being. It’s fascinating stuff!
We also discuss some of the challenges we face in creating a more sustainable future, and how we can work together to overcome them. George has such a positive and hopeful outlook, and it’s really inspiring to hear his thoughts on this.
Throughout the conversation, we all share stories and anecdotes from our own lives, and it really feels like a friendly chat between old friends. Dave is so impressed with George’s ideas that he even asks him out to lunch the following week!
So if you’re interested in hearing some great insights on environmental activism and sustainability, this is definitely the episode for you. George is such an amazing guest, and this conversation is packed full of insightful nuggets.
This episode is sponsored by Vivobarefoot Footwear. Vivobarefoot Footwear have given our listeners an exclusive 15% discount when you enter the code HAPPYPEAR15
Genuinely these are the only shoes you will see Dave & Steve wearing!
Produced by Sean Cahill and Sara Fawsitt
Sticky Sesame Tofu Burger with Charred Pineapple and Kimchi Mayo
This indulgent burger will transport you to a street market in Berlin or London, with flavours dripping down your face—so good you won’t mind the mess! The effort is well worth it, and if you’re not a fan of pineapple, you might be surprised how well it works in this dish. Alternatively, try replacing it with charred peach or nectarine. A beautiful kimchi slaw ties it all together!
Takes 27 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
For the Slaw:
1/4white cabbage(finely sliced)
1/2carrot(grated)
Handful of fresh coriander(diced)
1/4red cabbage(finely sliced)
50mlvegan mayonnaise
1tspchilli powder(Korean chilli powder like gochugaru works best)
1tbspkimchi juice(or sauerkraut juice)
For the Tofu:
200gfirm tofu(sliced into 1 cm thick slices)
4tbspwhite flour (or cornflour)
4tbspsesame seeds
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
5tbsptamari
3tbspmaple syrup
1tbspvinegar(of choice)
1clovegarlic(finely chopped)
1/2thumb-sized piece ginger(peeled and finely chopped)
1/4red chilli(finely chopped)
Extras:
2burger buns
1/3fresh pineapplecharred (sliced into 2 x 1 cm slices, core removed)
Spicy red pesto or ketchup
Instructions
Make the Slaw:Finely slice the cabbages, grate the carrot, and dice the fresh coriander. In a separate bowl, mix together the vegan mayonnaise, chilli powder, and kimchi juice until well combined. Add the mayo mixture to the cabbage, carrot, and coriander. Mix well to form your kimchi slaw.
Char the Pineapple:Carefully remove the skin from the pineapple, slice into two 1 cm thick slices, and remove the core. Heat a non-stick pan and char the pineapple on both sides for 30-40 seconds until evenly browned. Set aside.
Prepare the Tofu:Slice the tofu into 1 cm thick pieces, slightly larger than the burger buns. Heat a non-stick pan on high and add 1 tbsp of oil. While the pan is heating, finely chop the garlic, ginger, and red chilli. Mix all the teriyaki sauce ingredients in a small bowl.Fry the tofu slices for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden. Add 2 tbsp of the teriyaki sauce to the pan and coat the tofu slices thoroughly. Remove from the pan and set aside. Clean the pan.
Coat the Tofu:In a shallow dish, coat the cooked tofu in white flour or cornflour, ensuring an even layer. Dip each piece of tofu into the remaining teriyaki sauce, then roll in sesame seeds to fully coat.
Fry the Coated Tofu:Reheat the pan on high heat with 1 tbsp of oil. Fry the coated tofu for 1 minute on each side until the sesame seeds start to turn golden and pop. Add the remaining teriyaki sauce to the pan, and let it reduce for about 1 minute. Add the tofu back in, spooning the sauce over to stick to the sesame crust.
Assemble the Burger:Toast the burger buns. Spread a generous dollop of pesto or vegan mayo on the bottom bun. Add the charred pineapple, followed by the sticky sesame tofu. Drizzle any remaining teriyaki sauce over the tofu. Top with the kimchi slaw and close with the top bun. Enjoy!
This Low Fat Tofu and Spinach Dal is so tasty and genuinely only takes 10 mins. It is also low fat so ideal for anyone wanting to lose weight. The first time we made this recipe we shot a video after brekkie and ended up devouring the full lot! This recipe is ideal for anyone going through menopause as its low in fat, high in phytoestrogen coming from the beans and lentils.
Tofu and Spinach Dal
This is so tasty and genuinely only takes 10 mins. It is also low fat so ideal for anyone wanting to lose weight. The first time we made this recipe we shot a video after brekkie and ended up devouring the full lot! This recipe is ideal for anyone going through menopause as its low in fat, high in phytoestrogen coming from the beans and lentils.
Takes 16 minutesminutes
Serves 4
Ingredients
200gtofu
3tbpstamari
1.5tbspmaple syrup
1clovegarlic
thumbsizedpiece of ginger
1bunch scallions
400gcooked chickpeas
400gcooked lentils
100gspinach
400gchopped tomatoes
200mlwater
250gnatural soy yoghurt
1/2juicelime
10-15cherry tomatoes
2tbspcurry powder
1tspground tumeric
2tspground cumin
1tspsalt
1tbsptamari
1/2tspblack pepper
Instructions
Peel and finely chop the garlic and ginger. Finely chop the scallions/ green onions removing any limp outer leaves. Drain the tinned chickpeas and lentils and rinse thoroughly, keeping them separate. Chop the cherry tomatoes in half. Remove the tofu from the pack, drain any water, cut the tofu into 1.5cm squared cubes. In a mug mix the 3 tbsp of tamari with the 1.5 tbsp of maple syrup until well combined.
Heat a non-stick pan on high heat, once hot add the tofu and cook for 3-4 mins stirring regularly until it starts to sear or golden on each side, add in the tamari and the maple syrup mixture and quickly mix so that each piece of tofu is really well coated with the sauce. Add in the drained beans and lentils to the pan with the tofu along with the chopped tomatoes, water and the sliced scallions or green onions. Add in the spices, the curry powder, turmeric, ground cumin, salt, tamari and ground black pepper and mix well.
Finally add in the soy yogurt along with the spinach and mix well and cook for 2-3 mins until the spinach starts to wilt.
Squeeze in juice of ½ lime and mix through, taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking by more salt, pepper, lime or maple syrup
Leave to simmer for a further 2 mins, then take off the heat.
Garnish with some pomegranate seeds and fresh coriander (or other fresh herb of your choice), and serve with a cooked grain of choice or toasted pittas chopped into soldiers and some rice. Enjoy!
Dr Nitu Bajekal is back with a special episode for National Women’s Health Day! An expert in women’s health and menopause. This is the second time she’s joined us on the podcast, and we’re thrilled to be launching our online menopause course with her.
Episode 111
Get ready for an informative and lively conversation full of takeaways that both men and women of all ages should listen to.
Key takeaways:
Menopause is a natural part of aging for women, and it’s essential to recognise and manage its symptoms, including hot flashes, mood swings, and vaginal dryness.
Hormonal changes during menopause can also lead to an increased risk of heart disease, osteoporosis, and other health conditions, making it vital to take care of overall health and wellbeing.
Lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and stress management can play a significant role in managing menopause symptoms and reducing health risks.
Dr. Nitu emphasises the importance of self-care and self-compassion during menopause, as it can be a challenging time both physically and emotionally.
The hosts and Dr. Nitu discuss common misconceptions and stigmas surrounding menopause and encourage open and honest conversations about women’s health.
The most important takeaway of all is let’s start talking more openly and honestly about women’s health!
Lots of love,
Dave & Steve
Available now from all good podcast providers:
Checkout our Happy Menopause course for more information.
This episode is sponsored by Vivobarefoot Footwear. Vivobarefoot Footwear have given our listeners an exclusive 15% discount when you enter the code HAPPYPEAR15
Genuinely these are the only shoes you will see Dave & Steve wearing!
Produced by Sean Cahill and Sara Fawsitt
Super Chewy Chocolate Chip Cookies
These cookies are our absolute favourite! We bake a version of them every day in the bakery and sprinkle coarse sea salt on top to make them even more magnificent. Here’s an easy home version!
Takes
Serves
Ingredients
125gself-raising flour
80gvegan block butter
115gcaster sugar
35gbrown sugar
3tbspoat milk
1tbspground flax seeds
3tbspwater
100gchocolate chips
Instructions
Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 170°C (fan). Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Prepare the flax egg: Mix the ground flax seeds with 3 tbsp of water and set aside for about 5 minutes to thicken.
Melt the vegan butter: Melt the vegan block butter over low heat. Once melted, remove from the heat and set aside to cool slightly.
Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift the self-raising flour, caster sugar, and brown sugar together.
Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, oat milk, and the thickened flax egg.
Form the cookie dough: Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent developing too much gluten. Stir in 80 g of the chocolate chips, reserving 20 g for decoration.
Chill the dough: Cover the cookie dough and refrigerate for 30 minutes or freeze for 10 minutes to firm it up slightly.
Shape the cookies: Remove the dough from the fridge or freezer. Scoop heaped tablespoons (about 45 g per cookie) and roll them into balls. Arrange them on the prepared baking tray, leaving space between each cookie to allow for spreading (around 5 cookies per tray). Gently press each cookie down with the palm of your hand.
Decorate and bake: Press the remaining 20 g of chocolate chips into the tops of the cookies. Bake in the preheated oven for 6 minutes.
Create the perfect texture: After 6 minutes, remove the tray from the oven and drop it carefully onto the counter to create a 'bang' that will flatten the cookies slightly. Return to the oven and bake for a further 6-8 minutes, or until golden.
Finish and serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top of each cookie.Allow the cookies to cool before enjoying (if you can resist!).
Can Coffee Cause Bloating? The Truth About Coffee, Bloating and Your Gut Health
Do you love starting your day with a cup of coffee, but hate the bloating that comes with it? You’re not alone. Many people experience bloating after drinking coffee, and it can be uncomfortable and frustrating. In this article, we’ll explore whether coffee really can cause bloating, and what you can do about it.
Overview of Bloating and Gut Health
Bloating is a common symptom of an unhealthy gut. It occurs when your digestive system has difficulty breaking down food, leading to excess gas and discomfort. The health of your gut plays a crucial role in your overall well being, affecting everything from your immune system to your mental health. That’s why it’s important to take care of your gut and address any issues, like bloating, as soon as possible. Bloating is really a sign or indicator of an unhappy gut.
Can Coffee Cause Bloating?
Now, let’s talk about coffee. You may have noticed that sometimes after drinking your favourite cup of joe, you feel bloated and gassy. So, can coffee really cause bloating? The short answer is yes, it can.
Coffee is a natural laxative that stimulates the muscles in your digestive system, which can lead to an increase in bowel movements. This can cause the production of gas, leading to bloating and discomfort. Additionally, coffee contains caffeine, which can also cause bloating by increasing the production of stomach acid and slowing down digestion.
But, it’s important to note that not everyone experiences bloating after drinking coffee. It can vary depending on your body’s sensitivity to caffeine and other compounds found in coffee. If you do experience bloating after drinking coffee, you may want to consider cutting back or switching to a lower-caffeine option.
So, does cutting out coffee help with bloating? It can, but it’s not necessarily the only solution. It’s important to consider other factors that can contribute to bloating, such as diet, stress, and gut health.
In fact, this is where our Gut Health Revolution course can come in handy. By learning about the connection between gut health and bloating, you can make informed decisions about your diet and lifestyle to alleviate bloating and improve your overall well-being.
And if you do decide to continue drinking coffee, there are ways to minimise the bloating effects. Opting for a low-acid coffee or adding a splash of oat milk can help reduce the amount of acid and stimulate digestion.
So, yes, coffee can cause bloating, but it’s not necessarily a reason to give up your morning cup of joe. By being mindful of your body’s response to coffee and making informed choices, you can enjoy your coffee without the discomfort of bloating.
Does Coffee Make You Gassy and Bloated?
There’s no denying that coffee is a staple for many people. Whether it’s part of your morning routine or an afternoon pick-me-up, a steaming cup of coffee can be a real comfort. However, for some people, coffee may cause an unpleasant side effect: bloating and gas. So, does coffee make you gassy and bloated?
The answer is not a simple one. While coffee itself doesn’t contain gas-causing compounds, it does stimulate the production of stomach acid. This increase in acid production can lead to digestive discomfort, including bloating and gas. Additionally, coffee can be a diuretic, which means it can cause dehydration and constipation, both of which can contribute to bloating.
It’s also important to consider what you’re putting in your coffee. Adding milk or cream to your coffee can make it more difficult to digest, particularly if you’re lactose intolerant. Artificial sweeteners or high amounts of sugar can also cause digestive issues, including bloating. The same goes for adding additional syrups.
If you’re experiencing bloating and gas after drinking coffee, it’s worth examining your overall diet and lifestyle. Are you eating a diet that includes lots of fruit, veg, wholefoods and legumes that naturally contain plenty of fibre? Are you drinking enough water throughout the day? Are you getting enough exercise? How is your sleep? These factors can all impact your digestive health and contribute to bloating.
If you’re still experiencing discomfort, it may be worth cutting back on your coffee intake or trying alternative sources of caffeine, such as tea or cocoa. You may also want to experiment with different brewing methods or types of coffee to see if that makes a difference. A batch brewed coffee or V60 can often be a gentler type of coffee when compared to an espresso based coffee.
Ultimately, the link between coffee and bloating is not straightforward, and what works for one person may not work for another. However, by paying attention to your body and making some small adjustments to your diet and lifestyle, you may be able to find relief from bloating and gas.
And don’t forget, our Gut Health Revolution course can provide valuable insights and strategies for improving your digestive health, including reducing bloating and gas. So, if you’re struggling with digestive issues, consider giving our course a try, it really does get fantastic results in a matter of days.
Does Cutting Out Coffee Help with Bloating?
If you are experiencing bloating after drinking coffee, you may wonder if cutting it out of your diet will help. The answer is not a simple yes or no, as the effects of coffee on the digestive system vary from person to person.
Coffee is a diuretic and a stimulant that increases the production of stomach acid, which can lead to digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and heartburn. However, some people may be able to tolerate coffee without experiencing any negative effects.
If you are one of those people who experiences bloating after drinking coffee, cutting it out of your diet may help alleviate your symptoms. However, it’s important to note that other factors can contribute to bloating, such as eating too quickly, eating gas-producing foods, and being sedentary. So, cutting out coffee alone may not be enough to relieve your bloating.
It’s also worth mentioning that if you are used to consuming high amounts of caffeine on a daily basis, cutting out coffee abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, irritability, and fatigue. It may be better to gradually decrease your coffee intake to avoid these symptoms.
Instead of cutting out coffee completely, you can try reducing your intake or switching to decaf to see if it helps with your bloating. Alternatively, you can try adding some gut-friendly foods and drinks to your diet to promote healthy digestion and reduce bloating.
Some gut-friendly foods include fermented foods such as kefir, kimchi, and sauerkraut, which are rich in probiotics that can help regulate digestion. Fibre-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains and beans/legumes are naturally high in prebiotic fibre and can also promote healthy digestion and reduce bloating.
Additionally, drinking herbal teas like ginger or peppermint tea can soothe the digestive tract and reduce bloating. And, of course, taking our Gut Health Revolution course can help you understand the causes of bloating and provide you with the tools and resources you need to improve your gut health and reduce your symptoms.
In summary, cutting out coffee may help alleviate bloating for some people, but it’s not a guaranteed solution. Other factors such as diet, exercise, and stress management also play a role in digestive health. Experimenting with reducing your coffee intake, adding gut-friendly foods, and taking our Gut Health Revolution course can all be effective strategies to alleviate bloating and improve overall gut health.
Can Black Coffee Cause Bloating?
Black coffee is simply coffee without any added milk, cream, or sugar. While black coffee is generally considered to be a low-calorie and healthy beverage, some people may experience bloating and digestive discomfort after consuming it.
The main reason black coffee can cause bloating is due to its high acidity. When coffee is consumed, the acid in the coffee can irritate the lining of the stomach and small intestine, which can cause gas, bloating, and abdominal discomfort. Additionally, caffeine can also stimulate the production of stomach acid, which can further aggravate digestive symptoms.
It’s also worth noting that some people may be more sensitive to the effects of coffee than others. For example, people with certain digestive conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), may be more prone to experiencing bloating and other digestive symptoms after consuming coffee. Here is an article we wrote on how to improve gut health which covers IBS.
That being said, it’s important to remember that not everyone will experience bloating after drinking black coffee. It ultimately comes down to your unique digestive system and tolerance for coffee.
If you are someone who experiences bloating after drinking black coffee, there are a few things you can try to reduce the likelihood of digestive discomfort. One option is to switch to a lower-acid coffee blend, such as one that is specifically marketed as “low-acid” or “stomach-friendly”. Another option is to simply reduce the amount of coffee you consume or avoid drinking it altogether.
Finally, if you are experiencing chronic bloating or other digestive symptoms, it may be worth considering enrolling in our 4 week Gut Health Revolution course. We created it with a consultant gastroenterologist, a dietician, a mindfulness expert and ourselves best chefs. The course gets fantastic results and has helped more than 20,000 people improve their gut health.
Does Coffee Bloat or Debloat?
While coffee is known to cause bloating in some individuals, it is also believed to have a de-bloating effect on the gut. This is due to the caffeine content in coffee, which has been shown to stimulate the digestive system and promote bowel movements.
However, it’s important to note that this effect may not be the same for everyone. Some people may find that coffee worsens their bloating and digestive symptoms, while others may experience relief.
In general, the de-bloating effect of coffee is more likely to be observed in individuals who have a regular coffee habit and are not consuming excessive amounts. Drinking too much coffee can actually have the opposite effect and lead to increased bloating and discomfort.
As I mentioned further up this article, the way you consume your coffee can impact its de-bloating effect. For example, adding sugar, milk, or cream to your coffee may negate the potential benefits and even exacerbate bloating.
So, does coffee bloat or debloat? The answer is, it depends. While it may have a de-bloating effect on some individuals, it can also worsen bloating in others. It’s important to listen to your body and pay attention to how you feel after consuming coffee.
If you’re experiencing persistent bloating or digestive discomfort, it may be worth considering reducing your coffee intake or cutting it out altogether to see if it makes a difference.
What Relieves Bloating Fast?
There are several things you can do to relieve bloating fast:
Drink water: Staying hydrated can help flush out excess gas and relieve bloating.
Move your body: Gentle exercise like walking or yoga can help stimulate your digestive system and ease bloating.
Try ginger: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve bloating and other digestive issues. Ginger tea is an easy way to take it.
Eat probiotic foods: Fermented foods such as kim chi and sauerkraut are natural protiobcs. They are widely available and easy to eat alongside any of your meals. Probiotic foods can help balance the bacteria in your gut and alleviate bloating and other digestive issues. Here is a link to a simple sauerkraut fermentation recipe that is easy to make and full of natural probiotics.
How Gut Health Revolution Course Can Help
Our Gut Health Revolution course is designed to help you achieve a healthy, happy gut. You will literally learn to eat delicious foods that will heal and super charge your gut health and therefore every aspect of your health. Through our expert guidance and comprehensive resources, you’ll learn how to address bloating and other gut issues, and create sustainable habits for better gut health. With our personalised approach, you’ll receive the support and guidance you need to achieve your health goals.
Conclusion
Bloating is a common symptom of an unhealthy gut, and coffee can exacerbate it for some people. While cutting out coffee can help with bloating, it’s not the only solution
“No fungi no forest no future. Fungi are as important as oxygen and yet we only think of them as icky things”
Episode 110
The mycelium network, is vast, diverse, intelligent and everywhere! In this episode, we’re thrilled to have Fungi Guy, the popular YouTuber, as our special guest.
Fungi Guy, also known as Ali, is a passionate forager and mushroom enthusiast with a wealth of knowledge and experience. He has been foraging for over a decade and has a deep appreciation for the incredible diversity, importance and beauty of mushrooms.
In this episode, Fungi Guy shares his vast knowledge on mushrooms, his approach to foraging, from identifying different species to selecting the best specimens for cooking. He also shares some of his favorite mushrooms and explains why they’re so special to him.
One of the things we love about Fungi Guy is his infectious enthusiasm for mushrooms and his commitment to sustainable foraging practices. He truly embodies the spirit of The Happy Pear, and we’re honored to have him as our guest.
So, if you’re a mushroom lover or just curious about the world of foraging, this episode is not to be missed! Tune in to hear from Fungi Guy and learn more about the fascinating world of mushrooms.
Lots of love,
Dave & Steve
Available now from all good podcast providers:
This episode is sponsored by Vivobarefoot Footwear. Vivobarefoot Footwear have given our listeners an exclusive 15% discount when you enter the code HAPPYPEAR15
Genuinely these are the only shoes you will see Dave & Steve wearing!
Produced by Sean Cahill and Sara Fawsitt
The Happy Pear Podcast
Slow aging and improve your health with water!
This week we speak to holistic doctor and author of Quench, Dr Dana Cohen.
For over two decades, Dr. Dana Cohen has been on the leading edge of integrative and functional medicine, guiding thousands of patients through protocols that initiate cellular repair and restore balance to the body.
Episode 109
Her unyielding devotion to her patients has helped countless patients on the brink of giving up hope to finally improve, recover, or completely heal from a variety of severe and chronic health issues.
We jump striaght into her recent research and book Quench and discuss in detail the magical healing power of water.
“Proper hydration is the key to unlocking optimal health. But we need to start looking at hydration for what it is: the very essence of your health.”
The benefits of proper hydration can have a dramatic effect on your health, your vitality, and your overall quality of life, according to Dr Dana. Quench will help you determine how to hydrate the right way (hint: it doesn’t involve chugging a gallon of water every day), and then how to get the water you do drink deep into your muscles, cells, and fascia (the connective tissue of your body), where it’s needed most.
A brilliant episode, that will leave you stuffing your face with fruit, veg and lemon infused water!
Lots of love,
Dave & Steve
Available now from all good podcast providers:
This episode is sponsored by Vivobarefoot Footwear. Vivobarefoot Footwear have given our listeners an exclusive 15% discount when you enter the code HAPPYPEAR15
Genuinely these are the only shoes you will see Dave & Steve wearing!
Produced by Sean Cahill and Sara Fawsitt
Sample Lesson: Why your gut microbiome loves fibre
Our powerful jaw muscles, the hydrochloric acid in our stomach, the digestive enzyme cocktails produced by our pancreas – these are all powerless when it comes to digesting the structural carbohydrates found only in plants that we call fibre.
We have outsourced this job to our gut microbes, and they do it incredibly efficiently. When we serve our microbes a steady supply of fibre rich foods – fruits, vegetables, wholegrains, beans, and unprocessed plants – we immediately boost the production of Short Chain Fatty Acids (SCFA), substances that we can only get from our gut microbes and have so many health benefits that it is difficult to keep up with the research!
Sample Lesson: Knife Skills
There are many variations of knives you can use in the kitchen. We decided that rather than getting lost in the world of different knives, we would instead tell you about our favourite 3. These are the most useful knives that will help to get you started and cooking up some magic!
Chef’s knife
Paring knife/ utility knife
Bread knife
Sample Lesson: Do you need a probiotic supplement?
The human gut microbiome consists of a vast diversity of microscopic organisms and is a crucial player in our overall health. The bacteria, yeasts, viruses, and archaea of the gut microbiome first appeared on Earth between 2 and 4 billion years ago. They’ve been with humans on every single step of our own 7-million-year evolutionary journey. So, it shouldn’t surprise you to learn that you don’t need probiotic supplements to optimise or ‘balance’ your gut microbiome. Despite a thriving probiotic industry – one that is worth a massive $70 billion a year – there is surprisingly little evidence to support the health claims often made by probiotic companies.
Sample Lesson: Why FODMAPs are good for you
FODMAPS stands for fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols. These are small carbohydrates found in a variety of plant foods. These carbohydrates can be quite difficult for some people to break down and digest. If we don’t absorb them in our small intestine, they carry on down into our large intestine, where our gut microbiota lives (the bacteria that breaks down our fibres). Once the FODMAPS arrive here, they are broken down by our microbiome and this can cause bloating and gas, diarrhoea and sometimes constipation.
The Truth About Probiotics: Do You Really Need Them for Better Gut Health in Ireland?
When it comes to gut health, we often hear about probiotics and how they can help keep our gut bacteria in check. But with so many products on the market and conflicting information, it can be hard to know if we really need them. So, let’s get down to the truth about probiotics and whether they’re necessary for better gut health in Ireland.
Our gut microbiome is made up of a vast array of microscopic organisms, including bacteria, yeasts, viruses, and archaea. These tiny creatures have been with us on every step of our evolutionary journey, and they play a crucial role in our overall health. While probiotics have gained popularity in recent years, the truth is that you don’t necessarily need them to optimise or ‘balance’ your gut microbiome. Despite the huge market for probiotic products – valued at a whopping $70 billion annually – there’s surprisingly little scientific evidence to support the health claims made by the industry. So, let’s take a closer look at the truth about probiotics and what you really need for better gut health in Ireland.
Section 1: Understanding Probiotics
If you’ve heard anything about gut health, you’ve likely heard about probiotics. These tiny organisms, found in foods and supplements, are said to have a host of benefits for our health. But what are they, exactly?
Think of probiotics as the good bacteria that live in your gut. They work to keep your digestive system healthy and happy, aiding in the breakdown and absorption of nutrients. And they’re not just in our gut – probiotics are found in fermented foods like kimchi, kombucha and sauerkraut.
Now, while it may sound counterintuitive to add more bacteria to your gut, the idea is that by increasing the amount of good bacteria, you can crowd out the bad. And that can lead to all sorts of benefits, from better digestion to a stronger immune system to even better mental health.
So, if you’re interested in improving your gut health, probiotics are definitely something to consider. Whether you get them from food or supplements, they can help keep your gut in top shape. But, as we’ll see in the next section, there are some potential downsides to consider as well.
Section 2: The Pros of Probiotics
Probiotics are like superheroes for your gut! These beneficial bacteria are great for maintaining and improving gut health. There are many reasons why you should consider incorporating probiotics into your diet. Here are just a few of the amazing benefits:
Improved Digestion: Probiotics can help to break down food, making it easier for your body to absorb nutrients. They also help to balance the pH level in your gut, which can reduce bloating and other digestive discomforts.
Boosted Immune System: Your gut is closely linked to your immune system with over 70% of your immune system cells being based in your gut. By eating probiotics, you can help to strengthen your immune system and reduce your risk of infections.
Reduced Inflammation: Inflammation in the body can lead to a variety of health issues. Probiotics can help to reduce inflammation in the gut and throughout the body.
Aids in Weight Loss: Research has shown that probiotics may help to reduce body weight and body fat percentage. By improving gut health, probiotics can help to regulate your metabolism and improve your body’s ability to burn calories.
Incorporating probiotics into your diet is an easy way to improve your overall health and wellbeing. And if you live in Ireland, it’s easy to find probiotic-rich foods and supplements to help you achieve optimal gut health. However Dr. Alan Desmond, consultant gastroenterologist who we created our Gut Health Revolution Course with says ‘Despite a thriving probiotic industry – one that is worth a massive $70 billion a year – there is surprisingly little evidence to support the health claims often made by probiotic companies. ‘
It’s important to remember that probiotics are just one piece of the puzzle. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management are all important factors in maintaining gut health. And if you need additional support, be sure to check out the Gut Health Revolution Course – it’s a great solution to help you achieve optimal gut health.
Section 3: The Cons of Probiotics:
As much as probiotics have benefits, they are not perfect. One of the biggest downsides is that they may cause unwanted side effects, especially when taken in high doses. The most common side effects of probiotics include gas, bloating, and stomach upset. Some people may also experience allergic reactions, particularly if they have a history of food allergies or sensitivities.
Another issue with probiotics supplements is that not all strains are created equal. Some may be more effective than others, and some may not have any benefits at all. It can be challenging to know which strains are best for specific health issues, and there is a lot of variability in the quality of the supplements on the market.
Additionally, probiotics may interact with other medications, including antibiotics. In some cases, they may reduce the effectiveness of antibiotics or even cause harmful interactions.
Finally, there is limited research on the long-term effects of probiotic supplements use. While they have been shown to be safe for short-term use, there is still much to learn about the potential risks and benefits of prolonged probiotic supplementation.
It’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any new supplements, including probiotics. They can help you navigate the potential risks and benefits and determine if probiotics are right for you. And remember, there are plenty of other ways to support gut health, such as through a healthy diet and lifestyle habits.
Conclusion and Gut Health Revolution
In conclusion, while probiotics can be beneficial for some people, they are not a one-size-fits-all solution for gut health. It’s important to consider the potential cons and alternatives before deciding to take probiotics. And remember, a healthy gut can be achieved through a variety of lifestyle factors, such as eating a diverse diet, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly.
If you’re looking for a comprehensive solution to improve your gut health, we highly recommend checking out the Gut Health Revolution course. This course is designed to provide you with the knowledge and tools you need to optimise your gut health and achieve better overall health and well-being. With a focus on natural and sustainable solutions, the Gut Health Revolution course offers a practical and effective approach to gut health that is tailored to your unique needs and preferences.
By following the tips and strategies outlined in the course, you can improve your gut health and experience the many benefits that come with it, such as improved digestion, stronger immunity, and better mental health. So, if you’re ready to take the next step in your gut health journey, consider enrolling in the Gut Health Revolution course today.
These are a wonderful high-protein snack, perfect for on-the-go and packed with ingredients that promote gut health!
Takes 14 minutesminutes
Serves 8
Ingredients
Inside filling
100gmedjool dates
1tbspcocoa powder
1tbspmaple syrup
2tbspplant milk
2tsbp peanut butter
Outer layer
300gmedjool dates
300galmonds
¼tspsalt
2tspvanilla extract
100gcocoa nibs
Instructions
Prepare the Inside Filling:Remove the pits from the dates and add them to a food processor along with the cocoa powder, maple syrup, plant milk, and peanut butter. Blend until smooth, forming a consistency like a healthy chocolate spread.
Shape the Inside Filling:Using 2 teaspoons, carefully shape the mixture into 8-10 small balls, approximately 2 cm in diameter. Set aside.
Prepare the Outer Layer:Wash the food processor. Remove the pits from the dates for the outer layer and add them to the food processor along with the almonds, salt, and vanilla extract. Blend until the mixture is well combined.
Shape the Outer Layer:Carefully shape and flatten portions of the outer layer into small rectangles, approximately 4 cm square. Place the inside filling ball in the centre of each rectangle, then fold the outer layer over, ensuring the inside filling is completely covered. Roll gently to form a smooth ball.
Coat with Cocoa Nibs:Roll each ball in the cocoa nibs, ensuring they are well coated. Repeat with the remaining mixture.Enjoy!
Boost Your Gut Health with Probiotics and Prebiotics: A Beginner’s Guide
What are probiotics and prebiotics?
Okay, so let’s start with the basics. Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your gut health. They’re naturally found in your body, and you can also get them from food and supplements. On the other hand, prebiotics are non-digestible fibres that feed the good bacteria in your gut, promoting their growth.
Benefits of probiotics and prebiotics
Now, let’s talk about the good stuff. Adding probiotics and prebiotics to your diet has a ton of benefits, like improving your digestion, boosting your immune system, reducing inflammation, and aiding in weight loss. And you don’t just have to take our word for it – there’s plenty of scientific evidence to back it up!
How to incorporate probiotics and prebiotics into your diet
Adding probiotics and prebiotics to your diet is easier than you think. You can find them in a variety of foods, like yogurt (lots of plant based versions out there, our fav is coconut), kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi. You can also take supplements if you’re not getting enough from your diet. However Dr. Alan Desmond who we created our Gut Health Revolution Course with says ‘Despite a thriving probiotic industry – one that is worth a massive $70 billion a year – there is surprisingly little evidence to support the health claims often made by probiotic companies‘ And the best part? You can enjoy probiotic fermented foods in so many delicious ways, like adding sauerkraut to your sandwich or drinking a refreshing glass of kombucha.
Vegan sources of probiotics and prebiotics
If you’re following a plant based or vegan diet, don’t worry most probiotic foods are plant based! Fermented foods like tempeh and miso are great options, as well as plant-based yogurts and Kombucha. You can also try making your own fermented foods at home – it’s easier than you think!
Precautions when consuming probiotics and prebiotics
While adding probiotics and prebiotics to your diet is generally safe, there are a few things to keep in mind. Be aware of possible allergic reactions, and don’t overconsume – too much of a good thing can have negative effects. If you’re unsure, talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian.
Conclusion
Incorporating probiotics and prebiotics into your diet is an easy and delicious way to improve your gut health and overall well-being. By following the tips in this article and consuming a variety of foods rich in these beneficial bacteria, you can achieve optimal gut health and lead a happier, healthier life. And if you want to take it to the next level, check out our Gut Health Revolution Course – it’s a game-changer!
“A life not reflected is a life not worth living.”
This is the second time we have had our friend and very own life coach, Gerry Hussey on the podcast.
Episode 108
Gerry is a performance psychologist and also in more recent times been coined ‘The Soul Coach’. He has been in the human health and performance Field for almost 20 years.
Gerry has been at the forefront of building high performance teams and individuals in Olympic and Professional, sport and corporate organisations. His vast experience has seen him prepare and lead teams for success at Olympic Games, Heineken cups, World cups, and World and European championships.
He has worked and currently works with some of the world’s leading sport and business teams as well as coaching for high performing individuals.
Gerry is a leading voice that is challenging us to rethink health and performance in a whole new way and his integrated approach is one of honesty, simplicity and authenticity.
Another brilliant episode with Gerry, he really is the modern day sage!
Enjoy!
Lots of Love,
Dave & Steve x
Available now from all good podcast providers:
This episode is sponsored by Vivobarefoot Footwear. Vivobarefoot Footwear have given our listeners an exclusive 15% discount when you enter the code HAPPYPEAR15
Genuinely these are the only shoes you will see Dave & Steve wearing!
Produced by Sean Cahill and Sara Fawsitt
This Easy Mexican Chilli for gut health is packed with fibre so ideal for amping up your gut health where 70% of your immune system is.
Your gut is home to hundreds of trillions of microorganisms, bacteria, fungi, yeast, archaea. This collection of microorganisms are also known as your microbiome. Your microbiome exists In your large intestine and it works symbiotically with every system in your body.
Your gut health directly impacts every aspect of your health. Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, back more than 2000 years ago said that ‘all disease starts in the gut’.
If you are looking for more recipes that are great for gut health, we have some very tasty gut health recipes here.
We also have compiled a great article on gut health, IBS, bloating and other foods to eat for gut health which you can check out here.
Easy Mexican Chilli for Gut Health
Tasty, chocolatey, spicy and oh soo yummy!!! Oh and did you hear that this is really good for your gut health? It is packed with prebiotic fibre which will feed the healthy strains of microorganisms in your gut which will positively impact your moods, emotions, immune system and so much more.
Takes 18 minutesminutes
Serves 4
Ingredients
150gtempeh/ tofu
6spring onions/ scallions
1carrot
1red chilli
800gmixed beans
400gblack beans
800gchopped tomatoes
50gdark chocolate (70%-80%)
1tbspsmoked paprika
3tbpsTamari
1bunch coriander
1red pepper
1yellow pepper
Instructions
Finely chop the spring onions/scallions. Grate the carrot. Chop the tempeh/tofu into small pieces. Finely chop the chilli. Drain and rinse the beans. Finely chop the red and yellow peppers.
Put a small non-stick pan on a high heat and add the tempeh blocks with no oil. Cook on both sides till they golden and sear. This will take approx 3 mins on each side. Add 2 tablespoons of tamari and mix well and turn off the heat.
Put the large non stick pan on a high heat. Once hot add the chopped spring onions and the carrot. Cook for 1 minute while stirring regularly. If anything starts to stick add 2 tablespoon of water and ‘deglaze’ the pan.
Add the chopped red chilli and peppers to the pan along with a tsp of salt. Mix well and leave to cook for 3-4 minutes.
Add the drained beans, the 2 tins of chopped tomatoes and the chocolate, the smoked paprika and the remaining 1 tablespoon of tamari. Cook for a further 2 minutes.
Finely chop the coriander and add and mix through. Serve with the tempeh on top.
Notes
If you enjoyed this recipe – you might really enjoy our 4 week Gut Health Revolution Course which is on special at the moment for a limited time only. You will literally learn to cook delicious food that will supercharge your gut and also learn how to destress as stress has such a negative impact on your gut health. All medical information is supplied by Consultant Gastroenterologist Dr. Alan Desmond and Dietician Rosie Martin. All lifestyle content and food by Mindfulness expert Simone Venner and ourselves The Happy pear. We have had more than 15,214 people through it with an 84% success.
This is super tasty and only takes 20 mins, no yeast or no proving required – it's super tasty and gives a nice thick crust. You can mix and match the veg to your like but this a great recipe to have in your repertoire! Enjoy its delicious and a great treat!
Takes
Serves 1
Ingredients
Dough
250gself raising flour
125mlwater
Small pinch salt
Toppings
1Tbspoil
2vegan sausages
1small red onion
1small leek
1small red pepper or half large
1small courgette (approx 120g)
½red chiili
½tspsalt
Sauce
2tbsptomato paste/ tomato puree
2tbsppesto of choice
Instructions
Preheat oven to 250 C
If using frozen vegan sausages defrost before using.
For the toppings, chop up the vegan sausage into roughly 7 slices per sausage. Peel and slice the red onion into half moons, cut the leek in half lengthwise and into half moons (rinse to remove any sediment) chop the courgette and pepper into small bite size pieces, dice half a red chilli (remove the seeds if you like it less spicy).
Put a large ovenproof frying pan (approx 30cm) on high heat, once hot add the oil and all the prepared veg and generous pinch of salt and sliced vegan sausages. Cook for 7-10 minutes stirring regularly until the onion and leek are nicely softened and the sausages are nicely charred. Remove the toppings from the pan to a bowl and wipe the frying pan clean.
In a separate bowl mix the sauce ingredients together.
To make your dough mix the ingredients together in another bowl and then knead dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-10 minutes until it forms a nice smooth elastic dough that is smooth to the touch. Alternatively you can mix it in a stand mixer with a dough hook for 4-5 minutes.
By hand, flatten, stretch and shape your dough to roughly the size of the frying pan (ensure the pan is oven proof – no plastic) ensuring the dough is nice and thin in the middle. Heat the empty pan over a medium heat and add 1 tsp of oil, then carefully add the dough to the pan, pushing the dough to the edges to cover the bottom of the pan. Working quickly, spread the sauce in an even layer over the dough, then scatter your topping over the sauce. Cook over the heat for 4 – 5 minutes just until the base is nicely lightly browned. Then transfer to the preheated oven at 250 degrees C for 10 minutes.
Carefully remove from the oven, the handle will be very hot.
Slide your pizza onto a cutting board slice and enjoy!
Matthijs G.C. Schouten B.Sc., M.Sc. D.Sc. studied biology and comparative religion at the University of Nijmegen and Celtic studies at the University of Amsterdam (the Netherlands).
He has worked as a lecturer at the University of Nijmegen and as an ecological project leader for the Wildlife Service (Dublin). He was the leader of the international campaign for the conservation of Irish bogs. Since 1992 he is senior ecological officer at the National Forest Service of the Netherlands; since 1995 he also is a visiting professor of nature and landscape conservation at University College Cork and University College Galway (Ireland); in 1999 he furthermore accepted the chair of restoration ecology at Wageningen University (the Netherlands).
In 1990 he was awarded the International Award for Conservation Merit by the World wide Fund for Nature and in 1992 the National University of Ireland granted him a honorary doctorate.
He has published widely in the fields of ecology and nature philosophy. His latest book Spiegel van de natuur; het natuurbeeld in cultuurhistorisch perspectief (Nature’s mirror; the image of nature in a cultural-historical perspective) has formed the basis for the exhibition World Nature Art in the Nieuwe Kerk in Amsterdam.
In this episode we explore the meaning of nature, how we have become detached and obsessed with the individual, driven by ego, how we need to reinstate rituals of contemplation, the power we all posses to make change, the importance of enchantment, connection and falling in love.
“Unless we accept how destructive we can be we can’t move ahead constructively.”
We loved this episode so much, Dave has already booked a trip to have lunch with Matthijs!
Enjoy!
Lots of Love,
Dave & Steve x
Available now from all good podcast providers:
This episode is sponsored by Vivobarefoot Footwear. Vivobarefoot Footwear have given our listeners an exclusive 15% discount when you enter the code HAPPYPEAR15
Genuinely these are the only shoes you will see Dave & Steve wearing!
Produced by Sean Cahill and Sara Fawsitt
Easy Pad Thai in 10 Mins for Gut Health
This dish is really easy to make, packed with fibre, and features 13 different plants – nearly half of your target 30 plant foods per week, as per the American Gut Project.
Takes 10 minutesminutes
Serves 4
Ingredients
200gfirm tofu
200gwhole wheat noodles
3tbsptamari
1tbspmaple syrup
1bunch scallions(green onions)
3clovesgarlic
1thumb-sized piece of ginger
1red chilli
150gmushrooms
1yellow pepper
1grated carrot
400gblack beans(drained and rinsed)
400mlcoconut milk(use half the can)
50gsugar snap peas
Bunch of coriander
Juice of ½ a lime
Instructions
Boil the kettle, then fill a medium pot with the boiled water. Add the noodles and cook according to the instructions on the packet. Once cooked, drain and rinse them.
Chop the firm tofu into medium-sized cubes. Peel and finely chop the garlic and ginger. Finely chop the scallions (green parts only), mushrooms, and yellow pepper. Drain and rinse the tin of black beans.
Heat a wide-bottomed, non-stick pan on high heat. Once the pan is hot, reduce the heat to medium. Add the cubed tofu and cook until it starts to brown, turning to sear both sides. Add half of the garlic and ginger, and cook for 2 minutes, stirring regularly. When the tofu is seared, add 2 tablespoons of tamari and 1 tablespoon of maple syrup. If anything starts to stick, add 2-3 tablespoons of water and deglaze the pan. Remove the tofu from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, add the chopped yellow pepper, scallions, mushrooms, the remaining ginger, chilli, and grated carrot. Cook for 3 minutes. If anything starts to stick, add 2-3 tablespoons of water and deglaze the pan. Add the black beans, half the can of coconut milk, and the cooked noodles.
Cook for a further minute or two, stirring to incorporate everything. Turn off the heat. Taste and season with salt. Start with 1 teaspoon of salt and adjust to taste if necessary. Squeeze over the juice of ½ a lime.
Finely chop the coriander and sugar snap peas and add them to the dish before serving.
Notes
If you enjoyed this recipe – you might really enjoy our 4 week Gut Health Revolution Course which is on special at the moment for a limited time only. You will literally learn to cook delicious food that will supercharge your gut and also learn how to destress as stress has such a negative impact on your gut health. All medical information is supplied by Consultant Gastroenterologist Dr. Alan Desmond and Dietician Rosie Martin. All lifestyle content and food by Mindfulness expert Simone Venner and ourselves The Happy pear. We have had more than 15,214 people through it with an 84% success.
The gut and brain are connected through the gut-brain axis, which means that our gut health can have a significant impact on our mental health. A healthy gut microbiome (the population of microorganisms living in the gut) can help regulate mood, reduce inflammation, and improve brain function. On the other hand, an imbalanced gut microbiome has been linked to several mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and stress. Furthermore, certain types of gut bacteria can produce neurotransmitters that influence mood, while others can influence the production of hormones such as cortisol, which plays a role in stress. To maintain good gut and mental health, it is important to eat a diet high in fibre, reduce stress, and avoid antibiotics and processed foods whenever possible.
In regards to mental health, butyrate is a short chain fatty acid that is made by the healthy fibre loving microbes in our gut. It has been suggested to have a positive impact in terms of moods and mental health as it can cross the blood-brain barrier and has been shown to have effects on neurotransmitter production, inflammation and oxidative stress, which are all involved in various mental health disorders.
The role of Vagus Nerve
The connection between the gut and the brain via the vagus nerve is referred to as the gut-brain axis.
Studies have shown that the vagus nerve plays a crucial role in the communication between the gut and the brain, and influences various functions including digestion, immunity, and mood. The vagus nerve transmits information from the gut to the brain and vice versa, allowing the brain to respond to changes in the gut and modulate gut function.
In regards to mental health, research suggests that an overactive or underactive vagus nerve can contribute to depression, anxiety and other mental health disorders. The vagus nerve has been shown to regulate the release of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, that play a role in mood regulation, and can also modulate the body’s stress response.
Therefore, the vagus nerve is considered a key factor linking the gut and brain, and can have a significant impact on both gut and mental health.
The role of diet in terms of gut health and its influence on mental health
Diet has a significant impact on gut health, and therefore can also influence mental health. Some of the foods that are beneficial for gut health can positively impact mental health. These include:
Fibre-rich foods: Foods high in fibre, such as fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains, can promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and improve gut motility.
Fermented foods: Fermented foods, such as kim chi and sauerkraut, are rich in probiotics that can help maintain a healthy gut microbiome.
Polyphenol-rich foods: Foods rich in polyphenols, such as berries, nuts, and green tea, have anti-inflammatory effects and can support gut health.
Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids all have anti-inflammatory effects and can support gut barrier function. Plant-based sources include walnuts, ground flax seeds, chia seeds
Prebiotic foods: Prebiotic foods, such as onions, garlic, and asparagus, provide fuel for beneficial gut bacteria to thrive.
It’s important to note that everyone’s gut is unique and what works for one person may not work for another. A diverse plant based or plant predominant diet that includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods can help maintain a healthy gut and positive mental health.
If you want to learn more about the role of diet and what foods you can eat to super charge your gut, check out this in depth article we wrote on the gut along with Dr. Alan Desmond, Consultant gastroenterolist.
If you are looking for some gut health recipes – here is a link to lots of our gut health recipes