These crispy tofu 'fish fingers' are packed with umami and ocean-inspired flavour, using miso, nori and sesame to create a deliciously savoury batter. Perfect for dunking into tartar sauce or stuffing into a nostalgic vegan fish finger sandwich.
Takes 35 minutesminutes
Serves 4
Ingredients
For the batter
2tbspwhite miso
2tbspplain flouruse gluten-free for GF option
1tsplemon juice
1tspsesame oil
1tbspflaked nori or 1 sheet norifinely shredded or blended
½tspgarlic powder
15–30ml1–2 tbsp water, just enough to form a thick batter
For the breadcrumb coating
60g2.1 oz / 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1tbspnori flakesoptional
Pinchof sea salt
Pinchof black pepper
Other
1x 400g14 oz block firm tofu, pressed
Instructions
Prepare the tofu:
Press 1 x 400g (14 oz) block of firm tofu for at least 15–20 minutes to remove excess moisture. Slice into 8–10 finger-sized pieces. Optionally, lightly dust each tofu finger with a small amount of flour to help the batter adhere more evenly.
Make the batter:
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp white miso, 2 tbsp plain flour, 1 tsp lemon juice, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1 tbsp shredded nori, and ½ tsp garlic powder. Gradually add 15–30ml (1–2 tbsp) water until the mixture forms a thick, smooth batter that clings to the tofu without dripping off.
Prepare the coating:
In a shallow dish, mix 60g (2.1 oz / 1 cup) panko breadcrumbs with 1 tbsp nori flakes (optional), a pinch of sea salt, and a pinch of black pepper.
Coat the tofu:
Set up a coating station with one bowl of batter and one dish of breadcrumbs. Using one hand for wet and the other for dry ingredients, dip each tofu piece into the batter, ensuring it is completely coated, press gently and turn to cover all sides evenly. Allow any excess to drip off, then press the tofu into the breadcrumb mixture, turning to coat all sides thoroughly and evenly.
Optional chill:
For best results, place the coated tofu fingers on a plate or tray and refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to help set the coating before cooking.
Cook the tofu:
To bake: Preheat the oven to 200°C (fan 180°C / 400°F). Place the tofu fingers on a wire rack over a lined baking tray for even crisping. Lightly brush or spray them with oil. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crisp.
To fry: Heat 1–2 tbsp oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Fry each tofu finger for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp on all sides.
Serve:
Serve hot with tartar sauce, in a sandwich, or with chips and peas for a nostalgic plant-based dinner.
These colourful high-protein tofu wraps are made with firm tofu, a touch of olive oil for softness, and blended into a smooth, easy-to-pour batter. With plain, beetroot, and fresh spinach variations, they’re a wholesome, flexible wrap alternative that’s protein-rich and optionally gluten-free. These walk the line between where a savoury fluffy pancake and wrap meet!Tofu is naturally rich in plant-based phytoestrogens, which may help support hormone balance — especially during menopause. We created this recipe as part of our Happy Menopause course with Dr. Nitu Bajekal. Want to learn more and join us? Sign up here: https://thehappypear.ie/courses/happy-menopause-course/
Takes 35 minutesminutes
Serves 6
Ingredients
Base Dough:
300gfirm tofudrained and roughly chopped
300g2½ cups self-raising flour or gluten-free flour blend
1tbspolive oil
2tbsptamari or soy sauce
½tspsalt
½tspgarlic powderoptional
560mlwater
For Colour Variations (choose one or divide base dough into thirds):
PinkBeetroot: 1½ tsp beetroot powder or 1 cooked vacuum-packed beetroot
GreenFresh Spinach: 30g (1 cup packed) fresh spinach leaves (add more for a brighter colour)
Plain: No additional ingredients
Instructions
Blend the Dough:
In a blender or food processor, combine the tofu, self-raising flour, olive oil, tamari, salt, garlic powder and water.
Add one of the following, depending on your variation:
For plain, add nothing else.
For beetroot, add 1½ tsp beetroot powder or 1 cooked beetroot.
For spinach, add 30g fresh spinach leaves.
Blend until smooth. The batter should resemble a slightly runny pancake mix – not too thick or watery.
Cook the wraps:
Heat a dry non-stick over medium heat. Once hot, pour in some batter as you would for pancakes. Cook for around 2 minutes on each side until lightly browned and cooked through.
Cool and Store:
Place the cooked wrap on a clean tea towel and cover with another towel to keep them soft and warm. Serve straight away or allow to cool fully before storing in an airtight container.
Pak choi – also known as bok choy or Chinese cabbage – is one of the true heroes of spring and early summer on our farm. We’re currently growing 2–3 varieties – pak choi is in peak season in Ireland from April through June. Its tender, juicy stems and mild, slightly mustardy leaves make it an amazing, versatile veg. Here we’ve braised it with ginger & garlic and served on a beet tahini cream and sprinkle of gomasio!
Takes 20 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
For the braised pak choi:
2heads pak choiapprox. 400g
1tbsptoasted sesame oil
2clovesgarlicapprox. 6g
20gfresh ginger
1tbsptamari or soy sauce
3tbspwater
1tspmaple syrup
For the pink tahini cream:
30gtahiniapprox. 2 tbsp or ¼ cup
2tbspbeetroot juicefrom cooked beetroot or a splash from grated raw beet
1tbsplemon juice
30gyoghurt of choiceapprox. 2 tbsp or ⅛ cup – we used coconut
1–2 tbsp cold waterto loosen, as needed
Pinchof sea salt
To serve:
1tspgomasioor toasted sesame seeds with sea salt
Instructions
Prepare the flavour base:
Peel and finely grate the garlic and ginger. Slice the pak choi in half lengthways and rinse thoroughly, especially between the base stems.
Sear the pak choi:
Heat the toasted sesame oil in a wide pan over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the pak choi cut-side down and sear for 2–3 minutes until golden and slightly charred.
Add aromatics and braise:
Add the grated garlic and ginger to the pan and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the tamari, water, and maple syrup. Cover with a lid and let the pak choi braise gently for 4–5 minutes, until the stems are tender but still hold their shape.
Make the pink tahini cream:
In a small bowl, whisk together the tahini, beetroot juice, lemon juice, yoghurt, and a pinch of sea salt. Add cold water gradually until smooth and creamy.
Plate and serve:
Spread a generous swoosh of the pink tahini cream onto each plate. Arrange the braised pak choi on top and spoon over any remaining cooking juices. Finish with a sprinkle of gomasio or sesame seeds and sea salt.
Plantbased Wagon Wheel – Chocolate Marshmallow Jam Biscuit Sandwich
A nostalgic classic, reimagined the plant-based way! These soft, gooey, jam-filled chocolate biscuit sandwiches bring back memories of schoolyard treats – and this homemade version is just as satisfying. With a fluffy aquafaba marshmallow centre and rich dark chocolate coating, they’re a show-stopping sweet treat that’s well worth the effort.
Takes 4 hourshours30 minutesminutes
Serves 12
Ingredients
For the Marshmallow
Aquafaba Whip
120mlaquafabaliquid from a tin of unsalted chickpeas (½ cup)
1tspvanilla extractor peppermint, rose, or almond
¼tspcream of tartaroptional, for stability
Syrup Base
100mlwaterjust under ½ cup
1½tbspagar flakesor 1½ tsp agar powder
200gcane sugar or maple sugar1 cup (or 180ml / ¾ cup + 1 tbsp agave syrup for a softer texture)
Pinchof sea salt
For Assembly
300gdark chocolateabout 1¾ cups, chopped
300ground biscuitsapprox. 5–6cm in diameter (about 2½ cups broken into pieces)
100graspberry jamabout ⅓ cup
Instructions
Prepare the trays:
Line two 20×20cm trays with greaseproof paper.
Whip the aquafaba:
Using a stand mixer or electric whisk, whip the aquafaba with the cream of tartar (if using) on high speed for 8–10 minutes until stiff peaks form. Add the vanilla extract during the final minute.
Make the agar syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine the water and agar flakes. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Stir for 5–7 minutes until the agar is fully dissolved.
Add sugar and salt:
Stir in the sugar and a pinch of sea salt. Continue cooking over medium heat, stirring constantly, for 3–5 minutes until it thickens to a honey-like consistency and bubbles steadily. Aim for 110–115°C (230–240°F) if using a thermometer.
Combine syrup with aquafaba:
With the mixer on low speed, carefully pour the hot syrup into the whipped aquafaba in a thin stream. Once added, turn the mixer to high and whip for 8–10 minutes until the mixture is thick, glossy, and holds soft peaks. The mixing bowl should be warm, not hot.
Spread into trays:
Quickly spoon the marshmallow mixture into the prepared trays, spreading it evenly to about ½ cm (0.2 in) thick. Work fast – the agar sets quickly as it cools.
Set and cut marshmallows:
Leave to set at room temperature for 2–4 hours (or overnight). Once firm, use a round cutter (5–6cm / 2–2.4in) to cut 12 discs. Keep the offcuts for snacking or blending into hot chocolate!
Melt the chocolate:
Place the dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl and melt gently over a bain-marie or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring between each.
Assemble the wagon wheels:
Lay out 12 biscuits. Top each with a marshmallow disc and 1 tsp raspberry jam. Sandwich with another biscuit.
Coat in chocolate:
Using two forks, dip each biscuit sandwich into the melted chocolate, coating it completely. Let the excess drip off and place on a greaseproof-lined tray.
Set and enjoy:
Leave to set at room temperature or refrigerate to speed up the process. Once firm, dig in and enjoy your homemade plant-based wagon wheels!
Meal Prep: Buddha Bowl, Satay Noodles & Black Bean Burger
Want to meal prep without getting stuck eating the same thing every day? This recipe is all about creating building blocks — flavour-packed components you can mix and match into three totally different meals. You’ll spend a little time up front roasting, baking and blending, but once that's done, it only takes a few minutes to assemble each dish on the day. It’s a smarter, more flexible way to meal prep that saves you time and keeps your taste buds happy!
Takes 1 hourhour20 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
Roasted Vegetables (baked on 2 trays):
1sweet potato
1cauliflower
1red onionsliced
2tbspolive oil
Salt and pepper
Smoky Tofu:
300gblock tofudrained & cut into small 2cm cubes
Tofu Dressing:
1tspsmoked paprika
2tbsptamari or soy sauce
1tbspmaple syrup
1tspgarlic powder
Quinoa & Broccoli:
250gquinoaapprox. 1½ cups
400mlwaterapprox. 1⅔ cups
Pinchsalt
1medium head broccoli
Peanut Satay Sauce:
2tbsppeanut butter
1tbspvinegar
2tbsptamari or soy sauce
1tbspcoconut sugar or brown sugar
1clovegarlic
1tspsesame oil
Juice of ½ lime
½thumb-sized piece of ginger
2tbspwarm water
Homemade Ketchup:
100ml½ cup tomato purée (unsweetened)
2tbspapple cider vinegar
2tbspmaple syrupor date syrup/honey
½tspgarlic powder
¼tspsalt
Dukkah:
4tbspalmonds or walnuts
2tbspsesame seeds
1tbspcoriander seeds
½tspblack peppercornsor ground black pepper
½tspsea salt
Pickled Red Onion:
1red onion
75mlvinegarapprox. 5 tbsp
75mlwaterapprox. 5 tbsp
Pinchsalt
1tspmaple syrup
Extras for Assembly:
3burger buns
250gnoodles of choice
2ripe avocados
1x 400g tin of black beans
20gcoriandercilantro
Instructions
Make your Components
Roast the Veg:
Roast at 200°C for 25–30 mins until golden.
Bake the Tofu:
Mix the tofu dressing ingredients together and coat the tofu cubes. Bake at 200°C for 25 mins, tossing halfway through.
Cook the Quinoa & Broccoli:
Cut the broccoli into small bite-sized pieces. Add the quinoa, water, and a pinch of salt to a saucepan and bring to the boil with the lid on. Once boiling, place the lid ajar to let out steam and reduce to a gentle simmer. Cook until about 2cm of water remains, then turn off the heat, add the broccoli, cover, and leave to steam for 10 mins.
Make the Peanut Satay Sauce:
Peel and finely grate the garlic and ginger. In a bowl, combine warm water, peanut butter, vinegar, tamari, coconut sugar, grated garlic and ginger, sesame oil, and lime juice. Stir until smooth and well combined.
Make the Ketchup:
Mix all ingredients together in a small bowl and season to taste.
Make the Dukkah:
Roughly chop the almonds. Add to a dry frying pan with the sesame seeds, coriander seeds, pepper, and salt. Toast for about 5 mins, stirring regularly, until the seeds start to pop. Remove from heat and grind in a pestle and mortar or pulse in a blender.
Make the Pickled Red Onion:
Peel and finely slice the red onion. Add to a glass or jar with the vinegar, water, salt, and maple syrup. Mix and let sit for 15 mins.
Assemble Your Dishes
Assemble the Buddha Bowl:
Divide approx. 70g of cooked tofu between 2 bowls along with a generous handful of roasted veg. Add approx. 100g of cooked quinoa to each bowl, followed by 3 tbsp of pickled red onion. Cut 1 avocado in half, scoop out the flesh, slice, and divide between the bowls. Garnish with dukkah.
Assemble the Satay Noodles:
Cook 200g of noodles and drain. In a large frying pan, add approx. 200g roasted veg, 100g tofu, some broccoli, satay sauce, and 2–4 tbsp water. Heat over medium heat until bubbling. Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with pickled red onion and fresh coriander.
Assemble the Black Bean Burger:
Rinse and drain the black beans. In a large bowl, mash together with remaining quinoa, roasted veg, and tofu. Add 1 tbsp smoked paprika, 2 tbsp tamari, juice of 1 lime, and 15g chopped coriander. Mash with a potato masher (or pulse in a food processor) until combined.
Too dry? Add 2 tbsp water.
Too wet? Add 1–2 tbsp flour.
Shape into 4–5 burgers. Fry in a non-stick pan with 1–2 tbsp oil until golden on both sides. Toast the buns. Spread mayo on one side and ketchup on the other. Slice the second avocado and add 2–3 slices per burger, then top with a burger patty and serve.
These homemade vegan marshmallows are pillowy, bouncy, and melt-in-the-mouth with no gelatine in sight! Perfect for hot chocolates, desserts, or just for snacking. This version uses less agar for a more authentic marshmallow texture—soft, light and fluffy, not firm or chewy.
Takes 4 hourshours20 minutesminutes
Serves 25
Ingredients
Aquafaba Whip
120ml½ cup aquafaba (liquid from a tin of unsalted chickpeas)
1tspvanilla extractor peppermint, rose, or almond for variation
¼tspcream of tartaroptional, for stability
Syrup Base
100mljust under ½ cup water
1½tbspagar flakesor 1½ tsp agar powder
200g1 cup cane sugar or maple sugaror 180ml / ¾ cup + 1 tbsp agave syrup for a softer result
1Pinch of sea salt
For Dusting (optional but helpful for handling)
30g¼ cup arrowroot powder or cornflour
15g2 tbsp icing sugar or coconut sugar, sifted
Instructions
Prepare the tin:
Line a 20x20cm tin with greaseproof paper and dust with 30g (¼ cup) arrowroot powder and 15g (2 tbsp) icing sugar to prevent sticking.
Whip the aquafaba:
Using a stand or electric hand mixer, whip 120ml (½ cup) aquafaba with ¼ tsp cream of tartar (if using) on high speed for 8–10 minutes until stiff peaks form. Add 1 tsp vanilla extract near the end.
Make the agar syrup:
In a small saucepan, combine 100ml (just under ½ cup) water and 1½ tbsp agar flakes. Bring to the boil, then reduce to a simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring until fully dissolved.
Add the sugar and salt:
Stir in 200g (1 cup) cane sugar and a pinch of sea salt. Continue cooking over medium heat for another 3–5 minutes, stirring continuously, until it thickens to a honey-like consistency and bubbles steadily. If you have a thermometer, aim for 110–115°C (230–240°F).
Combine quickly:
With the mixer on low, slowly pour the hot syrup into the whipped aquafaba in a thin stream. Once fully added, increase speed to high and whip for another 8–10 minutes until thick, glossy, and holding soft peaks. The bowl should feel warm, not hot.
Transfer to tin:
Immediately spoon the mixture into the prepared tin and smooth the top. Work quickly, as the agar sets fast once it cools.
Set and slice:
Leave to set at room temperature for 2–4 hours (or overnight) until firm. Once set, lift out and slice into squares using a lightly oiled knife or one dusted in arrowroot.
Dust and store:
Toss the marshmallows in more of the arrowroot and icing sugar mixture to coat and prevent sticking. Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Wildflower Soda with Gorse, Dandelion & Cherry Blossom
We foraged wild spring flowers in our hometown and combined them with fresh ginger, sugar, and water. The naturally occurring wild yeasts on the petals and ginger spark a spontaneous fermentation, producing gentle bubbles and a vibrant, floral soda that tastes like spring in a bottle. We add sugar not to sweeten the drink, but to feed the wild yeasts that drive the fermentation. As they consume the sugar, they produce beneficial probiotics and natural carbonation. Most of the sugar is used up during this process, leaving behind a lightly fizzy, subtly sweet drink that’s far lower in sugar than it started with. The result is a drink with less sugar than most kombuchas.
Takes 6 daysdays20 minutesminutes
Serves 8
Ingredients
4litres water16 cups
400gorganic granulated sugarapprox. 10% of water weight
30gfresh gingerchopped (skin on if organic)
15g1 cup fresh foraged gorse petals (yellow blossoms only)
15g1 cup fresh foraged dandelion petals (yellow parts only)
50gapprox. 1.75 oz fresh wild cherry blossom petals (no stems or leaves)
3 apples (organic, unwashed)
1orange (organic, unwashed)
1lemon (organic, unwashed)
Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a clean fermentation jar: In a large glass jar (5L capacity), add 4 litres water, 400g sugar, 30g chopped ginger, 15g gorse petals, 15g dandelion petals, chopped apples and citrus fruitand 50g cherry blossom petals. Stir well until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Cover and ferment at room temperature: Cover the jar with a clean cloth or a loose lid and leave at room temperature (18–22°C / 64–72°F) for 3–5 days. Stir once or twice daily to submerge the petals and prevent mould.
Monitor fermentation: Look for bubbles, cloudiness, and a gently tangy taste — these are signs of active fermentation. Depending on room temperature, this may happen faster or slower.
Strain and bottle: When the soda is pleasantly floral and slightly fizzy, strain out the solids using a fine sieve or cheesecloth. Pour the liquid into swing-top bottles, leaving about 2cm (0.8 in) headspace.
Build carbonation: Seal the bottles and leave at room temperature for 1–2 days to naturally carbonate. Burp once daily to release any excess pressure.
Chill and serve: Refrigerate once carbonation is to your liking. Serve chilled and open bottles with care — the soda will be beautifully fizzy, fragrant, and alive with springtime flavour.
Catkins grow on birch trees in spring throughout the UK and Ireland, offering a gentle, earthy hazelnut flavour. This recipe is a wild twist on our high-protein, 5-minute granola – it keeps the crunch, quick prep, and nutritional punch of the original, with an added foraged flair thanks to lightly toasted birch catkins.
Takes 5 minutesminutes
Serves 6
Ingredients
Nuts, Seeds & Foraged Add-ins
40galmondsapprox. ⅓ cup
40gwalnutsapprox. ⅓ cup
40gdesiccated coconutapprox. ½ cup
30gsunflower seedsapprox. ¼ cup
80gpumpkin seedsapprox. ½ cup
30ggoji berriesapprox. ¼ cup
1tbspchia seeds
5gwild birch catkinsapprox. 1 tbsp
Flavourings & Bindings
Pinchof sea salt
Pinchof ground cinnamon
2tbspcoconut oil35g / approx. 2 tbsp
35mlmaple syrupapprox. 2 tbsp
½tspvanilla essence
Instructions
Prepare the dry mix:
Roughly chop the almonds, walnuts, desiccated coconut, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and chia seeds until they resemble a coarse crumble texture. You can also pulse them briefly in a food processor if you prefer a more uniform texture.
Toast the chopped nuts and catkins:
Add the chopped mix to a wide-based frying pan along with the birch catkins. Toast dry over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, stirring continuously, until the coconut begins to smell sweet and toasty, and the edges turn golden brown.
Add coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla:
Turn off the heat and stir in the coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla essence. Mix thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Cool and enjoy:
Remove from the heat and allow to cool completely. Stir through the goji berries (and cacao nibs, if using). Once fully cooled, store in an airtight container for up to 4 weeks.
Serve with your favourite yoghurt, plant-based milk, fresh fruit, or use as a crunchy topper on porridge or smoothie bowls.
Notes
🌳 Notes on Foraging & Substitutions
Use young, freshly dried birch catkins for the best nutty aroma and flavour.
If birch catkins aren’t available, you can replace them with a few extra almonds or an additional tablespoon of seeds for a similar texture and crunch.
I walked into the Supermarket this morning with just over €4 to make dinner for 4 people and got ingredients to make a really tasty rice stir fry dish. It is tasty, high in fibre, low in calories and high in nutrition so it ticks all the boxes. Easy to make, super tasty, cheap and really good for you. It will keep in the fridge for 3 days and will work great for lunch eaten cold.
Takes
Serves 4
Ingredients
500gpre cooked brown basmati rice – €1.30
1bag of stir-fry vegI got a mix of beansprouts with broccoli, scallions, some red onion and grated carrot – €1.50
150gmushrooms – €1.20
1tin of bake beans – €0.29
3tbsptamari –
1-2tbspcurry powder
1/2tspsmoked paprika
Chili flakes to serve
Instructions
Slice your mushrooms into bitesize pieces.
Drain and rinse the tomato sauce off you beans.
Heat a non-stick pan on a high heat till it gets nice and hot.
Reduce the heat to medium/hot temperature and add your mushrooms.
Cook for 2 minutes, stirring a couple of times.
Add the bag of stir-fry veg and cook for a couple of minutes, stirring regularly.
Add the rice, ensure to break up any clumps of rice from the pack, and mix it all through.
Heat for a minute.
Add the curry powder, smoked paprika and a good pinch of chilli flakes and mix through. Serve & Enjoy!
These are so good and really remind us of ribs with a slight Chinese twist. If you have an air fryer it really helps grizzle up the tofu! Enjoy!
Takes 20 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
280gfirm tofu
170gTender stem broccoli
1bok choi
1red onion
250gcooked rice or quinoa
100gSauerkraut
For The Marinade:
50gCapers
3tbspMaple syrup
2tbspTamari
2tbspTomato puree
1tspChinese 5 spice
2tbspwater
Instructions
Slice the tofu lengthwise into 1 cm slices. Cut them into diamonds so they are triangle shaped.
Cook in air frier for 15 mins standing up so the air can really circulate to maximise the crispiness. If you dont have an air frier simply preheat your oven to 220 degrees C and bake for 15-20 mins until crispy on the outside.
In a cup mix together the ingredients for the marinade. Remove the crispy tofu.
Add the marinade to a wide bottomed saucepan and on low heat bring to the boil while stirring continuously. Once boiling add the tofu and cook for 1 min turing over and ensuring each triangle is well coated in the marinade. Turn off the heat and mix again to ensure they are well coated.
Cook your rice as per the pak instructions. Par boil the broccoli and drain and rinse. Heat a griddle pan on high heat., Once hot add the broccoli and cook until it has char marks on each side, be careful not to move it too much to ensure you get nice char marks.. Remove from the heat, cut the bok choi in half lengthwise and add the griddle pan open face down. Peel the red onion and cut in half lengthwise and ad to the griddle pan face down. Leave to cook until both the bok choi and onion start to char.
To plate up add the rice to the middle of both the bowls and divide up the charred broccoli, bok choi and red onion between the 2 bowl. Add the sauer kraut and caper and finally add the tofu ribs.
High Protein Nourish Bowl with Spiced Lentils & Golden Quinoa
Packed with 40g of protein and half your daily fibre needs, this plant-based bowl is bursting with flavour, texture, and diversity. It's a satisfying option for anyone sceptical about the fullness factor of vegan meals, or those who avoid processed soy or fake meats. Ready in under 40 minutes, it’s a vibrant, hearty dish the whole family will enjoy.
Takes 40 minutesminutes
Serves 3
Ingredients
Spiced Lentils
400gtin cooked green or brown lentils250g drained (1½ cups cooked)
3garlic cloves
1½tspcumin seeds
1½tspsmoked paprika
1tbsp15ml olive oil (optional)
Salt & black pepper to taste
Golden Quinoa
400gcooked quinoa≈135g dry / ⅔ cup dry
1tspturmeric
600mlwater2½ cups
Pinchof salt
Roasted Vegetables
1cauliflowerapprox. 300g (2½ cups chopped)
1head broccoliapprox. 300g (2½ cups chopped)
2tbsp30ml olive oil
1½tspsmoked paprika
Salt & pepper to taste
Walnut-Hemp Crumble
45gwalnuts⅓ cup
45ghemp seeds¼ cup
Pinchof sea salt
Optional: 1½ tsp garlic powder or smoked paprika
Lemon Tahini Yoghurt Sauce
4tbsp90g tahini (¼ cup)
200gplain soy yoghurt¾ cup
Juice of ½ lemon
½tspgarlic powder
6tbsp90ml water (¼ cup + 2 tbsp)
Salt to taste
To serve
1 avocado
Fresh coriander or parsley
Instructions
Roast the vegetables:
Preheat oven to 200°C (fan 180°C) / 390°F. Chop the cauliflower and broccoli into small, bite-sized florets. Toss with 2 tbsp olive oil, 1½ tsp smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Spread on a baking tray and roast for 25 minutes until golden and tender.
Cook the lentils:
Drain and rinse the lentils. Finely chop the garlic. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat (if using), then sauté the garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the lentils, cumin seeds, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir for 3–5 minutes until heated through and well seasoned.
Prepare the walnut-hemp crumble:
Roughly chop the walnuts. Toast the walnuts and hemp seeds in a dry frying pan over high heat with a pinch of sea salt. Stir occasionally for 4–5 minutes until golden and fragrant. Optional: Add garlic powder or smoked paprika for extra flavour.
Make the tahini yoghurt sauce:
In a bowl, whisk together tahini, soy yoghurt, lemon juice, garlic powder, and water until smooth and creamy. Season with salt to taste.
Assemble the bowls:
Divide the cooked quinoa between three bowls. Top each with the spiced lentils and roasted veg. Sprinkle over the walnut-hemp crumble. Slice the avocado and divide between bowls. Drizzle with the tahini yoghurt sauce and finish with fresh parsley or coriander.
It’s really easy to start your own sourdough mother, and it’s like growing your own pet that will require feeding and minding. It simply requires flour, water and time.
What flour to use?
You can start a mother (culture) with most flours, but make sure to choose a flour that is easy to come by, is not that expensive, as the mother will require regular feeding. We use a white flour-based mother culture in our bakery, and I also have a wholemeal spelt mother at home. A white flour will have more sugars available and less fibre than a wholemeal flour, so the mother will grow quicker and therefore require more regular feeding. Wholemeal flour has a higher fibre content, so it will absorb more moisture and be slightly less active than white flour.
Method
In a 400-ml clean jam jar, add:
50g of flour of choice (we prefer 100% wholewheat or wholemeal spelt)
50 ml of water
Mix well until homogenous. Cover with a tea towel to stop flies from entering while still allowing air and natural yeast to enter.
Leave it to sit on the countertop for 3-5 days out of direct sunlight.
Once it smells yeasty and slightly beer-like or brewery-like and has small bubbles in it, it is ready to go and get its first feed. You now have your very own sourdough mother to love and look after, which will hopefully nourish you and your friends and family!
It is important to note that whatever flour your mother culture was created with is the flour you will always have to feed it, so for example, if you used wholemeal spelt flour, then your mother culture needs to always be fed wholemeal spelt flour. You can change the type of flour over time, but this is a gradual process.
Feeding your new mother culture
Your sourdough culture will now need to be fed daily. If you are going on holiday, either get a friend to feed it or simply put it in the fridge, and it will live for a week without feeding (when starting to bake from using your mother from the fridge, it will require 1 good feed before baking once out of the fridge to get it active for baking bread).
Pour out half of your mother culture into a bowl; this will be used to make bread. Now in the same jar, add:
50g flour (ensure it is the same flour as your mother culture was created with)
50 ml of water
Mix well, and leave.
How regularly should I feed my mother?
If your mother is living outside of the fridge, it will need to be fed daily. If it is in a warm environment, such as 20 degrees C, it might need to be fed twice daily. If your mother is living in the fridge, it will need to be fed weekly or, at a stretch, every second week.
If your mother is living in a cold environment, such as a kitchen in winter that is approx. 5 degrees C, it will need to be fed once per week, as this environment is similar to a fridge.
Sample Lesson: Gut Health – Why all health begins in the gut
In medicine we have known that gut health is crucial to overall health for a very long time. Over 2 thousand years ago, Hippocrates “the father of modern medicine”, taught his students that all health begins in the gut. In 21st century we now recognise there was so much truth in that. We have learnt this through unlocking the secret world of the human gut microbiome.
When we are born, from our first human breath to our first human touch; the microbes in the environment populate our bodies and our digestive system. They help us to digest our first meal, without them our intricate digestive system would not even develop properly, nor would our immune system.
By adulthood, this microbiome has grown to an impossibly complex ecosystem, found predominantly in our large bowel or colon. Made up of over 100 trillion microbes, bacteria, yeasts, viruses, and archaea. They have been described as a control centre for human biology. Interacting with the food we eat, each other, and the delicate lining of our digestive system.
The microbe that exist in us are descendants from the planets first inhabitants, they have been on the earth for thousands and thousands of years.
Your gut microbes outnumber the trees on planet earth, in fact they outnumber all the stars in the Milky Way! We are equal parts human and microbes, in fact our gut microbes contain far more genetic material than our human cells.
Our microbes produce dozens – if not hundreds of chemicals that interact with our body, enter our bloodstream, and help to determine our health. They truly are a control centre for human biology – with crucial roles in regulating our appetite, blood sugars, inflammatory processes, and metabolic health.
This is a perfect symbiosis – our gut microbes depend upon us and we depend upon them. They want us to be healthy! On the journey to better gut health and better overall health – they are our crucial allies.
Sample Lesson: Happy Menopause – Is HRT Right for Me?
HRT is also known as Hormone Therapy (HT) or Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT). It is the use of hormones, for managing perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms and to try and minimise some of the longer-term effects of menopause.
HRT can be very effective for and very helpful for many women especially when symptoms adversely affect quality of life.
HRT is useful for relief of menopausal symptoms including:
Hot flushes
Night sweats
Vaginal dryness…
And it can also help with mood and libido
HRT can also benefit women who are not suffering significant menopausal symptoms but wish to get the benefits of hormone therapy such as protection for their heart and bones, ideally starting it within ten years of menopause or before the age of 60.
However, do remember hormone therapy will not change life circumstances and stress perhaps due to other factors. In these situations, HRT may not be as helpful as one hoped.
Also not all women can or want to take hormone therapy and should be supported in their decision with appropriate evidence-based information.
That said, do remember HRT is safe for the vast majority of women with no real risks with breast cancer or clots with the current preparations
Before starting HRT, your doctor will take a thorough history from you and examine you appropriately. They should advise you on the preparations most suited for you as well as any risks and benefits specifically for you as well as discuss any concerns you may have. Do mention to your doctor any MEDICAL information including any known relevant family history.
HRT is available as tablets, skin patches, gels or nasal spray.
HRT provides low doses of oestrogen and progesterone. You don’t need progesterone if you have had your womb removed as it is used to protect your womb from developing uterine cancer if only oestrogen is used.
Sometimes testosterone is added to improve sex drive, libido, bone health and concentration.
I also tell my patients, whether you plan to use HRT or not, do try and follow a lifestyle and a diet that helps you with your menopausal symptoms and overall health and wellbeing.
There is a lot more written information on HRT that you can also access during the course.
Sample Lesson: The Happy Shape Food Pillars
Below are the 10 key Happy Shape Pillars that will help to ensure you achieve your goals and find your happy shape! We have explained each of them here and there is also a downloadable list, which you can print and put somewhere that you can see each day.
Eat a whole food plant based diet – fruit, veg, beans, legumes, whole grains, nuts & seeds.
Eat as much as you like, provided you are sticking to these food principles. All health score 5 recipes are suitable!
Eat only wholegrain products – That means choosing brown carbs over white carbs, no white flour products etc.
Ensure that packaged whole foods you eat with a label have a fat content below 10%.
Don’t eat any refined or processed foods.
Don’t eat any animal based foods – no meat, chicken or fish.
Don’t eat any dairy products.
Don’t eat any eggs.
Don’t use any oil – this includes all oils: olive oil, sunflower, avocado, flax oil.
Eat nuts, seeds and avocados sparingly.
1. Eat a whole food plant-based diet
This is a diet based 100% on whole foods, it is comprised of: fruit, veg, beans, legumes, whole grains and small amounts of nuts and seeds. The benefits of following this diet are:
It’s high in fibre
It’s naturally low in fat
It does not contain dietary cholesterol
It’s high in water
It does not contain saturated or trans fats
It’s packed with antioxidants and other phytonutrients which aid blood flow.
It’s low in calories
2. Eat as much as you like, provided you stick to the guidelines
With this diet there is no calorie counting, no portion control (except for desserts!), so you can eat as much as you like, providing you are sticking to these 10 guidelines.
Here’s how this works:
A whole food plant based diet is naturally high in fibre:
Fibre fills you up.
It slows down the speed at which you eat.
High-fibre foods take longer to eat as a result your body registers that you are filling up quicker and reduces your hunger.
Fibre contains no calories.
You only get fibre from whole plant foods.
Whole food plant-based foods are high in water:
Water adds weight to your food
Water has no calories
A whole food plant-based diet is naturally low in calories:
By cutting out refined and processed foods, you can dramatically reduce overeating of ‘empty’ calories – refined foods that have no fibre and don’t fill you up or satisfy your hunger.
By cutting out animal foods, we further reduce calories.
By cutting out oil, we further cut the calories.
The only recipes we have included portion control in this book are not surprisingly the dessert section, as they are more calorie-dense and contain less water.
3. Use only wholegrain products
Wholegrain products are the brown carbs : brown rice, wholemeal pasta, wholemeal couscous, wholemeal noodles, 100% wholemeal bread. On this challenge we want you to eat 100% of your grain-based foods from wholegrain/wholemeal sources.
At least 80% of the carbohydrates we eat in the UK and Ireland are white carbs. We want to replace these white carbs that are low in fibre and devoid of any real nutrition with 100% brown carbs.
Wholegrain products are:
High in fibre
Low in calories
Packed with nutrition
4. Ensure the packaged whole foods that you eat with a label have a fat content below 10%
To find out the fat percentage content of a product, look at the back of the product’s packet, where you will find the nutritional information. Fat will be listed in weight per the size of the product and per 100g. Simply look at the fat content per 100g and this will give you the percentage fat. Anything above 10g per 100g is not suitable for the challenge.
5. Don’t eat any refined or processed foods
More than half of all the calories eaten in Ireland, the UK, and most of the first world come from refined and processed foods, so we really do understand how challenging giving up these foods is. We advise you to simply focus on the 4 weeks of this challenge and don’t be thinking beyond this. What is sustainable is joy, feeling good, having more energy, feeling happy and confident in your body so we suggest you focus on these!
By cutting out these refined and processed foods you are avoiding a lot of ‘empty’ calories that are devoid of nutrition and have other negative effects on your health.
Here are some facts about these foods:
They have no fibre
They are usually high sugar
They are usually high in salt (80% of the salt we eat is not from the salt shaker but from refined and processed foods)
They are usually high in fat, especially saturated fat, which has been linked to gaining weight
They have the biggest effect on increasing cholesterol levels
They are usually high in calories
They are ‘empty’ calories meaning the have very little vitamins or minerals in them and will not fill you up either
By refined and processed foods, we mean chocolate bars, snack bars, crisps, processed cereals, cakes, croissants, fizzy drinks etc. This means saying goodbye to most packaged foods, as they are typically a combination of fat, sugar and salt, and are highly addictive.
6. Don’t eat any animal based foods – no meat, chicken or fish
You may think eating no animal based foods for 4 weeks sounds extreme but we think that the reality of 45% of people dying in Europe every year due to heart disease is even more extreme! By animal based foods we mean beef, lamb, chicken turkey, ham, salami, sausages, bacon and even fish too. That is red meat, white meat and fish – basically exclude any foods that had a face or a mother! Again, focus on the fact that this is a 4 week challenge, it is a limited time, you can take a rain check after the 4 weeks.
Why we exclude animal based foods:
They have no fibre
They are high in saturated fat
They contain cholesterol
They contain very little antioxidants (the only antioxidants they contain are from the plants the animals consumed)
They are low in vitamins and minerals compared to plant-based foods
Animal foods contain only 2 of the 3 macro-nutrients: fat and protein. They are missing the number-one source of energy for your body: carbohydrates. Whole plant foods have 20-80% of their calories coming from carbohydrates, giving you a slow sustained energy release.
Animal foods are also high in saturated fat and contain trans fats, both of which are considered the ‘bad’ fats that can cause poor health outcomes. Whole plant foods only contain the ‘good fat’ such as polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats.
7. Don’t eat any dairy products
This means cheese, milk, butter and yogurt made from dairy products. Dairy products are typically high in saturated fat, particularly cheese, which is the highest source of saturated fat in our diet. They also contain cholesterol and are low in vitamins and minerals when compared to whole plant foods.
Why we exclude dairy products:
They are high in saturated fat
They contain cholesterol
They are often high in hormones
They have no fibre
8. Don’t eat any eggs
Eggs are the most concentrated source of cholesterol in the common diet, one large egg has about 200 milligrams of dietary cholesterol in the yolk with the daily maximum limit of cholesterol in your diet being 300mg and only 200mg if you are at risk of heart disease.
9. Don’t use any oil, that includes all oils – olive oil, sunflower, avocado, flax oil
Bear with us, we know this sounds really harsh and extreme. However, in our experience of having tens of thousands of people reduce their risk of heart disease and improve their health in just 4 weeks, cutting out oil is highly beneficial. It effectively lowers cholesterol levels, improves blood flow, improves skin and assists in weight loss, and you won’t even taste the difference, the food is equally as delicious!
We are aware that this may come across as super contentious and that on top of all the other ‘DONTS’ on this list, excluding oil seems very extreme but bear with us! Oil is 100% fat and a refined fat too.
Oil is the most calorie dense substance on the plant at 8000/cal per litre, that is 120 calories/tablespoon. These are ‘empty’ calories as in they have no fibre and little to no nutrition. It is the ultimate refined food in that we extract it from the whole food, discarding the fibre and nearly all the vitamins and minerals leaving us with nothing but the fat.
We are not against fat entirely, but we recommend you get your fat from whole food sources such as small amounts of nuts, seeds, and avocados. Most people who start our challenges/courses think they could never cook without using oil but end up surprised by how easy it is and how quickly their palate adjusts to oil free cooking. It is also much easier to wash your pots and pans after cooking without oil!
10. Eat nuts, seeds and avocados sparingly
Here we are talking about raw nuts and seeds (exclude all salted or roasted nuts ). Raw nuts and seeds are super healthful and packed full of beneficial fats. However, we only need very little of them in order to get their benefits. Particularly with nuts, it is very easy to sit there and eat a full 100g while watching something on your phone, however, we only need very little to get the real benefit from them and going above this can cause inflammation and have a negative effect on our cardiovascular health.
Nuts
We ask you to limit your intake of nuts to about 30g a day which is about:
20 almonds
10 walnuts
10 brazil nuts
15 pecan nuts
The healthiest of all nuts in terms of the highest omega 3 and lowest saturated fat are walnuts. In terms of nut butters and tahini we ask you to cut them out for the 4 weeks of the challenge (unless they are included in one of our recipes which is okay). As a snack, they are just so tasty which makes them very difficult to stop eating, so best to just go cold turkey and exclude them for the 4 weeks.
Seeds
We have found people are much less likely to overeat seeds, however, they are also a concentrated source of calories (about 5000cals/kg) and average about 30% fat (but tend to be low in saturated fat). We definitely encourage you to eat seeds but not a full bag!
Try to limit your seed intake to a few tablespoons a day or approx 30g. Seeds are great sprinkled over your porridge in the morning or over a salad at lunch.
Avocados
Like seeds and nuts, avocados are super healthy for you. However, they are energy dense and high in fat, so we encourage you to limit your avocado intake to a maximum of half an avocado, every second day.
Sample Lesson: Plant-Based Cooking Course – Pasta Basics
Pasta is a staple in Italian food and is a much-loved food all around the world. The first reference to pasta dates back to the 12th century, on the Italian Island of Sicily.
Pasta is typically made from an unleavened dough of wheat flour (normally durum wheat) mixed with water and sometimes eggs and formed into various shapes, then cooked by boiling or baking.
In recent times, pasta is now being made with many other ingredients, such as black beans, rice flour, red lentils and other legumes, to make it gluten-free and high in protein.
We didn’t taste pasta until we were about 10 and we remember wondering what this strange food was! Of course, pasta is now so ubiquitous, widely available and an everyday food!
Types Of Pasta
There are approximately 310 specific forms of pasta in various shapes and sizes, with almost 1300 different names depending on the area in which they are consumed. Some of the more common forms of pasta include long and short shapes, tubes, flat shapes, sheets, miniature shapes for soup, those filled and stuffed and, lastly, decorative shapes
In Italy, pasta is served in 3 types of prepared dishes:
pasta asciutta – cooked pasta served with a sauce or condiment
pasta in brodo – pasta served as part of a soup-style dish or broth
pasta al forno – pasta incorporated into a sauce or dish and baked in the oven.
In terms of nutrition, plain white pasta is generally made up of 31% carbohydrates / starch, 6% protein and is low in fat.
Pasta may also be enriched, which means that more vitamins and nutrients are added to it, or it can be made from wholegrain flour. Our preference, in terms of health, is to use wholemeal pasta or brown pasta, where available.
Wholemeal will be higher in fibre, so the sugars in the starch will be more slowly released into your bloodstream and deliver a more steady release of sugar. They will also fill you up more, as they are higher in fibre and have more nutrition when compared to white pasta. They won’t taste as indulgent or pleasurable as white pasta, but when served with a good sauce, most people won’t notice.
Pasta Shapes
The most common pasta shapes in our vegan world are:
Spaghetti – long and straight noodles. Also widely available in wholemeal varieties.
Linguine – a thinner, longer spaghetti. The extra surface area, when compared to spaghetti, makes lighter sauces stick better to it.
Tagliatelle – a flat, long spaghetti, normally dried in nests. It is often said that the best sauce for tagliatelle is Bolognese.
Penne – a small tube-like pasta with pointed ends, as they are cut at an angle. A very versatile pasta that holds its shape well in virtually all dishes. Widely available in wholemeal varieties.
Fusilli – thick, spiral-shaped, bite-sized pasta shapes. It is often suggested to serve this pasta with pesto, as it absorbs liquids and sauces easily.
Lasagne – the flat sheet that we tend to bake with a tomato sauce and top with a béchamel sauce.
Cannelloni – large pasta tubes that are filled and baked in a sauce.
Macaroni – famously served in a cheese sauce, these are small “elbow”-shaped pasta.
Farfalle – which means butterflies, aka bow-tie pastas. They hold sauces well and you can pair farfalle with a creamy or tomato sauce. They also go great in pasta salads.
Gluten-free pasta
Brown rice pasta – it cooks very easily, doesn’t really stick together and tastes great.
Legume-based pastas, such as red lentil pasta and black bean pasta, are generally higher in protein and do have a slight bean or legume-like flavour. They make a nice change but when compared to conventional pasta, they can taste a little strange.
Buckwheat pasta – we have found that this pasta tends to stick together. It has a really earthy taste.
The Basics For Boiling Pasta
Often seen as a simple task, it’s not if you know how! There are many myths and confusions about how to cook pasta. Having spent lots of time with his Italian friend, Pietro, in Rome, Steve has learned how to cook pasta Italian-style.
Here’s How:
Often, the ratio of pasta to water in Italian cookbooks is 1:10 so if you’re cooking 100g of pasta, you should cook it in 1 L of water.
First, fill and boil the kettle and if you don’t have a kettle, fill a pot and boil the water.
Choose a pot that is big enough to fit all the pasta you are cooking so that it will have enough room and not stick together. A simple rule of thumb is that the pot should be 2–3 times the size of the volume of pasta you are cooking.
Next, add salt to the water. Ideally, the water should have the same salinity as seawater; this might sound like a crazy amount of salt but most of the salt will end up being washed down the drain but lots of it will season the pasta. It will also give more buoyancy to the water so the pasta is less likely to stick together.
Don’t add oil to the pasta! The oil will simply coat the pasta as you drain it, form a layer between the pasta and the sauce and make the sauce less likely to stick to the pasta. The pasta itself is largely starch, so it will want to stick to most sauces but if there is oil on the surface of the pasta, this will act as a lubricant, making the sauce more likely to slide off the pasta.
Cook the pasta how you like it. In Italy, pasta is always cooked “al dente”, which means “to the bite”. Meaning that it is always slightly undercooked and has a little bite to it. When you bite into the pasta, there should be a tiny, firm bit in the cross section. If the pasta requires 8 minutes to cook, cook for 7, taste and then drain and cool to stop it from cooking more.
If you are familiar with Italian cooking, it can be very rule-oriented in its approach to food, often seen as quite rigid in what goes with what and what doesn’t go with what. As this is a plant-based course and we tend to be a little rebellious in nature, please excuse our deviations from some of the Italian rules. If we are insulting your Italian Nonna’s famous recipes, it is not intentional. We need to bring flavours from different areas!
Sample Lesson: Vegan Baking Course – Fruit Scone Framework
These framework % are so you can understand at a macro perspective the core components – they don’t scale linearly like a mathematical equation but is indicative for understanding the relationship of the ingredients.
In the below framework we have 4 recipes for sweet fruit based scones. Scones are a wonderful medium which you can flavour and season in infinite ways. Here are 4 of our favourite ways.
The basic fruit scones – leave out the raisins if you prefer a beautiful white scone or else change them to your favourite dried fruit (just make sure that the dried fruit is in small bite sized pieces).
Blueberry and almond – the blueberries when baked go wonderfully purple and give these scones a lovely juiciness. Use frozen blueberries for a more intense purple colour.
Walnut & date – A wonderful chef who worked with us Claire used to make these and they were always one of our favourites.
To prepare the flax egg, mix the ground flax with water and mix well together, then set aside to thicken and coagulate to make the binder.
In a food processor blend the solid coconut oil with the flour, sugar, baking powder and baking soda, salt and spice (if using any spice). Pulse it until the coconut oil is just blended through the dry ingredients evenly and it resembles a breadcrumb like texture. Take care here not to over mix the dough. If you don’t have a food processor just mix by hand ensuring to use the heat of your hands to melt the coconut oil and mix it well with the flour, sugar, salt. It should reach an almost bread crumb like consistency and have no lumps of coconut oil.
Transfer this to a large mixing bowl.
Next add the flavour component if using, (sultanas/raisins, blueberries, chopped dates, walnuts, orange zest etc) .
Make a slight well in the centre.
Mix the alternative milk and flax egg together, add to the well in the dry ingredients and with clean hands mix together gently until the dough just comes together, ensure to be light and gentle with your fingers and hands, ensuring you do not over mix the dough (as you don’t want to develop any gluten).
Tip the dough out onto a floured surface and pat down with floured hands and shape roughly into a round shape, the height of your scone cutter. Lightly flour your scone cutter and cut out your scones, they should weigh roughly 150g each, this will give you 6-7 scones based on the above framework.
Put the scones in a container to protect their shape and place in the freezer for 20 minutes. This may seem a little unusual, but this is the magic step that will help your vegan scone rise and disperse the coconut oil evenly while baking, giving you the perfect vegan scone.
Transfer the chilled scones to a parchment lined baking tray (ensuring to leave a few inches around each scone to allow them room to expand when baking)
Use a pastry brush to wash each scone with some plant milk, this will help them go a lovely golden brown while baking.
Bake at 180℃ fan for 30 minutes on the upper rack of your oven, rotating the tray half way through cooking time.
In the case of the blueberry and almond scones, half way through baking sprinkle over the flaked almond and leave in. The reason why we add them mid way is because otherwise they burn.
Remove from the oven and let the scones cool for 5 minutes, otherwise you’re likely to burn your mouth!
Today, we’ll explore two popular methods for preserving and enhancing the flavour of your vegetables: quick pickling and natural fermentation. While both techniques can transform ordinary produce into tangy, acidic, delicious treats; they differ significantly in process, time, and health benefits. This lesson is quite dense so do take your time with it & if you have any queries at all, pop a question up in Tribe and we’ll get back to you ASAP!
Basics of pickling
Pickling & fermentation are a favourite hobby of Steve’s, he always has many different experiments on the go!
Pickling has been done for centuries. It is the process of preserving food by either anaerobic fermentation in a brine solution or immersion in a vinegar solution,
Pickled food via natural fermentation is a super-healthy, cheap and delicious way to enjoy the taste of fresh food throughout the year. Also there is something wonderful about making your own pickled food at home and checking on how it develops to find the perfect recipe and process!
There are 2 main methods of pickling: – Vinegar brine method (Quick pickling) – Natural fermentation
Both of these methods work, however, we generally use the natural fermentation process as we want to develop good gut bacteria for a healthier digestion and overall health.
What is the difference between vinegar brine pickling (quick picking) and natural fermentation pickling?
They are kind of opposites, with different advantages and disadvantages.
Vinegar brine picking (quick pickling), such as pickled red onions in vinegar, kill the good bacteria (commonly referred to as probiotic bacteria) that are necessary for fermentation, as well as the bad bacteria.
Natural fermentation pickling is a traditional method that relies on naturally occurring lactic acid bacteria. Lactic acid bacteria are naturally present on everything that grows. By creating the right selective environment for these bacteria, through natural fermentation, you allow them to feast on the sugars that are naturally present in veggies. Through this process, the probiotic bacteria that are so good for everything from digestion to immunity, grow and breed!
Quick Pickling (Vinegar Brine Pickling):
Quick pickling is a fast and easy method of preservation that involves soaking vegetables in a vinegar-based brine. This method is great for those who want immediate results and enjoy a sharp, tangy flavour in their pickles.
Process: Quick pickling involves a mixture of vinegar, water, salt, and often sugar, then pouring it over the prepared vegetables. The jars are sealed and sometimes refrigerated, where they can be enjoyed after a few minutes, sometimes a few hours or even a few days.
Time: Because quick pickling uses vinegar, it takes significantly less time—typically just a few minutes to a few hours to a couple of days.
Flavour: The resulting pickles are tangy and crisp, with the vinegar providing a sharp, distinct taste.
Shelf Life: Quick pickles need to be stored in the refrigerator and have a shorter shelf life compared to fermented pickles. The vinegar tends to break down the vegetable and when left for a long time (a few weeks) the vegetables typically start to dissolve.
Natural Fermentation:
Natural fermentation is a traditional method that relies on naturally occurring lactic acid bacteria to preserve vegetables. This method requires patience but rewards you with complex flavours and numerous health benefits.
Process: Natural fermentation involves submerging vegetables in a saltwater brine, creating an anaerobic environment that encourages the growth of beneficial lactic acid bacteria. These bacteria convert sugars in the vegetables into lactic acid, which acts as a natural preservative. We apply a 2% salt solution method whereby you simply weight the weight of what ever fruit or vegetable you are fermenting and multiply that weight by 2% or 0.02 to get the amount of salt to add. Mix the salt with the prepared fruit or veg and add to a fermentation jar and cover with water and allow to ferment.
Time: Fermentation takes longer than quick pickling, often several days to a few weeks, depending on the temperature and the desired level of tanginess. The longer you ferment for the more acidic your fruit or veg will become and the warmer the temperature the quicker the fermentation process will be. Similarly if it is fermenting in a cold environment fermentation will be much slower than a warm environment.
Flavour: Fermented vegetables develop a more complex, tangy flavour that deepens over time. The process also results in a probiotic-rich food that supports gut health.
Shelf Life: Fermented pickles can be stored at room temperature (before opening) or in the refrigerator (after opening) and often last much longer than quick pickles due to the preservation effects of lactic acid.
Comparing the Two Methods:
Speed: Quick pickling is fast and convenient, while natural fermentation requires more time and patience.
Health Benefits: Natural fermentation provides probiotics and enzymes that are beneficial for digestion, these natural probiotics are absent in quick pickles.
Flavour Complexity: Fermented pickles offer a deeper, more complex flavour profile compared to the sharp tang of quick pickles.
Storage: Quick pickles often require refrigeration, whereas fermented pickles can be stored at room temperature before opening.
Quick pickling troubleshooting
Surface mould – Oh no! You did not submerge your veggies enough, or maybe some bits of veg floated to the surface. Best to discard and start a new batch ensuring to submerge better or get something to ensure the veg stay under water.
The brine is cloudy – This is a good thing! Don’t worry, you didn’t use the wrong kind of salt! Fermented brine gets cloudy because it is loaded with good stuff, like lactic acid bacteria. Cloudy means it has worked. When you are done with your pickles, you can drink that stuff or add it to cold soups for probiotic punch or bread dough for flavour and salt.
Today, we’ll explore two popular methods for preserving and enhancing the flavour of your vegetables: quick pickling and natural fermentation. While both techniques can transform ordinary produce into tangy, acidic, delicious treats; they differ significantly in process, time, and health benefits. This lesson is quite dense so do take your time with it & if you have any queries at all, pop a question up in Tribe and we’ll get back to you ASAP!
Basics of pickling
Pickling & fermentation are a favourite hobby of Steve’s, he always has many different experiments on the go!
Pickling has been done for centuries. It is the process of preserving food by either anaerobic fermentation in a brine solution or immersion in a vinegar solution,
Pickled food via natural fermentation is a super-healthy, cheap and delicious way to enjoy the taste of fresh food throughout the year. Also there is something wonderful about making your own pickled food at home and checking on how it develops to find the perfect recipe and process!
There are 2 main methods of pickling: – Vinegar brine method (Quick pickling) – Natural fermentation
Both of these methods work, however, we generally use the natural fermentation process as we want to develop good gut bacteria for a healthier digestion and overall health.
What is the difference between vinegar brine pickling (quick picking) and natural fermentation pickling?
They are kind of opposites, with different advantages and disadvantages.
Vinegar brine picking (quick pickling), such as pickled red onions in vinegar, kill the good bacteria (commonly referred to as probiotic bacteria) that are necessary for fermentation, as well as the bad bacteria.
Natural fermentation pickling is a traditional method that relies on naturally occurring lactic acid bacteria. Lactic acid bacteria are naturally present on everything that grows. By creating the right selective environment for these bacteria, through natural fermentation, you allow them to feast on the sugars that are naturally present in veggies. Through this process, the probiotic bacteria that are so good for everything from digestion to immunity, grow and breed!
Quick Pickling (Vinegar Brine Pickling):
Quick pickling is a fast and easy method of preservation that involves soaking vegetables in a vinegar-based brine. This method is great for those who want immediate results and enjoy a sharp, tangy flavour in their pickles.
Process: Quick pickling involves a mixture of vinegar, water, salt, and often sugar, then pouring it over the prepared vegetables. The jars are sealed and sometimes refrigerated, where they can be enjoyed after a few minutes, sometimes a few hours or even a few days.
Time: Because quick pickling uses vinegar, it takes significantly less time—typically just a few minutes to a few hours to a couple of days.
Flavour: The resulting pickles are tangy and crisp, with the vinegar providing a sharp, distinct taste.
Shelf Life: Quick pickles need to be stored in the refrigerator and have a shorter shelf life compared to fermented pickles. The vinegar tends to break down the vegetable and when left for a long time (a few weeks) the vegetables typically start to dissolve.
Natural Fermentation:
Natural fermentation is a traditional method that relies on naturally occurring lactic acid bacteria to preserve vegetables. This method requires patience but rewards you with complex flavours and numerous health benefits.
Process: Natural fermentation involves submerging vegetables in a saltwater brine, creating an anaerobic environment that encourages the growth of beneficial lactic acid bacteria. These bacteria convert sugars in the vegetables into lactic acid, which acts as a natural preservative. We apply a 2% salt solution method whereby you simply weight the weight of what ever fruit or vegetable you are fermenting and multiply that weight by 2% or 0.02 to get the amount of salt to add. Mix the salt with the prepared fruit or veg and add to a fermentation jar and cover with water and allow to ferment.
Time: Fermentation takes longer than quick pickling, often several days to a few weeks, depending on the temperature and the desired level of tanginess. The longer you ferment for the more acidic your fruit or veg will become and the warmer the temperature the quicker the fermentation process will be. Similarly if it is fermenting in a cold environment fermentation will be much slower than a warm environment.
Flavour: Fermented vegetables develop a more complex, tangy flavour that deepens over time. The process also results in a probiotic-rich food that supports gut health.
Shelf Life: Fermented pickles can be stored at room temperature (before opening) or in the refrigerator (after opening) and often last much longer than quick pickles due to the preservation effects of lactic acid.
Comparing the Two Methods:
Speed: Quick pickling is fast and convenient, while natural fermentation requires more time and patience.
Health Benefits: Natural fermentation provides probiotics and enzymes that are beneficial for digestion, these natural probiotics are absent in quick pickles.
Flavour Complexity: Fermented pickles offer a deeper, more complex flavour profile compared to the sharp tang of quick pickles.
Storage: Quick pickles often require refrigeration, whereas fermented pickles can be stored at room temperature before opening.
Quick pickling troubleshooting
Surface mould – Oh no! You did not submerge your veggies enough, or maybe some bits of veg floated to the surface. Best to discard and start a new batch ensuring to submerge better or get something to ensure the veg stay under water.
The brine is cloudy – This is a good thing! Don’t worry, you didn’t use the wrong kind of salt! Fermented brine gets cloudy because it is loaded with good stuff, like lactic acid bacteria. Cloudy means it has worked. When you are done with your pickles, you can drink that stuff or add it to cold soups for probiotic punch or bread dough for flavour and salt.
Sample Lesson: Vegan Baking Course – Fruit Scone Framework
These framework % are so you can understand at a macro perspective the core components – they don’t scale linearly like a mathematical equation but is indicative for understanding the relationship of the ingredients.
In the below framework we have 4 recipes for sweet fruit based scones. Scones are a wonderful medium which you can flavour and season in infinite ways. Here are 4 of our favourite ways.
The basic fruit scones – leave out the raisins if you prefer a beautiful white scone or else change them to your favourite dried fruit (just make sure that the dried fruit is in small bite sized pieces).
Blueberry and almond – the blueberries when baked go wonderfully purple and give these scones a lovely juiciness. Use frozen blueberries for a more intense purple colour.
Walnut & date – A wonderful chef who worked with us Claire used to make these and they were always one of our favourites.
To prepare the flax egg, mix the ground flax with water and mix well together, then set aside to thicken and coagulate to make the binder.
In a food processor blend the solid coconut oil with the flour, sugar, baking powder and baking soda, salt and spice (if using any spice). Pulse it until the coconut oil is just blended through the dry ingredients evenly and it resembles a breadcrumb like texture. Take care here not to over mix the dough. If you don’t have a food processor just mix by hand ensuring to use the heat of your hands to melt the coconut oil and mix it well with the flour, sugar, salt. It should reach an almost bread crumb like consistency and have no lumps of coconut oil.
Transfer this to a large mixing bowl.
Next add the flavour component if using, (sultanas/raisins, blueberries, chopped dates, walnuts, orange zest etc) .
Make a slight well in the centre.
Mix the alternative milk and flax egg together, add to the well in the dry ingredients and with clean hands mix together gently until the dough just comes together, ensure to be light and gentle with your fingers and hands, ensuring you do not over mix the dough (as you don’t want to develop any gluten).
Tip the dough out onto a floured surface and pat down with floured hands and shape roughly into a round shape, the height of your scone cutter. Lightly flour your scone cutter and cut out your scones, they should weigh roughly 150g each, this will give you 6-7 scones based on the above framework.
Put the scones in a container to protect their shape and place in the freezer for 20 minutes. This may seem a little unusual, but this is the magic step that will help your vegan scone rise and disperse the coconut oil evenly while baking, giving you the perfect vegan scone.
Transfer the chilled scones to a parchment lined baking tray (ensuring to leave a few inches around each scone to allow them room to expand when baking)
Use a pastry brush to wash each scone with some plant milk, this will help them go a lovely golden brown while baking.
Bake at 180℃ fan for 30 minutes on the upper rack of your oven, rotating the tray half way through cooking time.
In the case of the blueberry and almond scones, half way through baking sprinkle over the flaked almond and leave in. The reason why we add them mid way is because otherwise they burn.
Remove from the oven and let the scones cool for 5 minutes, otherwise you’re likely to burn your mouth!
Enjoy!
Sample Lesson: Plant-Based Cooking Course – Pasta Basics
Pasta is a staple in Italian food and is a much-loved food all around the world. The first reference to pasta dates back to the 12th century, on the Italian Island of Sicily.
Pasta is typically made from an unleavened dough of wheat flour (normally durum wheat) mixed with water and sometimes eggs and formed into various shapes, then cooked by boiling or baking.
In recent times, pasta is now being made with many other ingredients, such as black beans, rice flour, red lentils and other legumes, to make it gluten-free and high in protein.
We didn’t taste pasta until we were about 10 and we remember wondering what this strange food was! Of course, pasta is now so ubiquitous, widely available and an everyday food!
Types of pasta
There are approximately 310 specific forms of pasta in various shapes and sizes, with almost 1300 different names depending on the area in which they are consumed. Some of the more common forms of pasta include long and short shapes, tubes, flat shapes, sheets, miniature shapes for soup, those filled and stuffed and, lastly, decorative shapes
In Italy, pasta is served in 3 types of prepared dishes:
pasta asciutta – cooked pasta served with a sauce or condiment
pasta in brodo – pasta served as part of a soup-style dish or broth
pasta al forno – pasta incorporated into a sauce or dish and baked in the oven.
In terms of nutrition, plain white pasta is generally made up of 31% carbohydrates / starch, 6% protein and is low in fat.
Pasta may also be enriched, which means that more vitamins and nutrients are added to it, or it can be made from wholegrain flour. Our preference, in terms of health, is to use wholemeal pasta or brown pasta, where available.
Wholemeal will be higher in fibre, so the sugars in the starch will be more slowly released into your bloodstream and deliver a more steady release of sugar. They will also fill you up more, as they are higher in fibre and have more nutrition when compared to white pasta. They won’t taste as indulgent or pleasurable as white pasta, but when served with a good sauce, most people won’t notice.
Pasta Shapes
The most common pasta shapes in our vegan world are:
Spaghetti – long and straight noodles. Also widely available in wholemeal varieties.
Linguine – a thinner, longer spaghetti. The extra surface area, when compared to spaghetti, makes lighter sauces stick better to it.
Tagliatelle – a flat, long spaghetti, normally dried in nests. It is often said that the best sauce for tagliatelle is Bolognese.
Penne – a small tube-like pasta with pointed ends, as they are cut at an angle. A very versatile pasta that holds its shape well in virtually all dishes. Widely available in wholemeal varieties.
Fusilli – thick, spiral-shaped, bite-sized pasta shapes. It is often suggested to serve this pasta with pesto, as it absorbs liquids and sauces easily.
Lasagne – the flat sheet that we tend to bake with a tomato sauce and top with a béchamel sauce.
Cannelloni – large pasta tubes that are filled and baked in a sauce.
Macaroni – famously served in a cheese sauce, these are small “elbow”-shaped pasta.
Farfalle – which means butterflies, aka bow-tie pastas. They hold sauces well and you can pair farfalle with a creamy or tomato sauce. They also go great in pasta salads.
Gluten-free pasta
Brown rice pasta – it cooks very easily, doesn’t really stick together and tastes great.
Legume-based pastas, such as red lentil pasta and black bean pasta, are generally higher in protein and do have a slight bean or legume-like flavour. They make a nice change but when compared to conventional pasta, they can taste a little strange.
Buckwheat pasta – we have found that this pasta tends to stick together. It has a really earthy taste.
The basics for boiling pasta
Often seen as a simple task, it’s not if you know how! There are many myths and confusions about how to cook pasta. Having spent lots of time with his Italian friend, Pietro, in Rome, Steve has learned how to cook pasta Italian-style.
Here’s How:
Often, the ratio of pasta to water in Italian cookbooks is 1:10 so if you’re cooking 100g of pasta, you should cook it in 1 L of water.
First, fill and boil the kettle and if you don’t have a kettle, fill a pot and boil the water.
Choose a pot that is big enough to fit all the pasta you are cooking so that it will have enough room and not stick together. A simple rule of thumb is that the pot should be 2–3 times the size of the volume of pasta you are cooking.
Next, add salt to the water. Ideally, the water should have the same salinity as seawater; this might sound like a crazy amount of salt but most of the salt will end up being washed down the drain but lots of it will season the pasta. It will also give more buoyancy to the water so the pasta is less likely to stick together.
Don’t add oil to the pasta! The oil will simply coat the pasta as you drain it, form a layer between the pasta and the sauce and make the sauce less likely to stick to the pasta. The pasta itself is largely starch, so it will want to stick to most sauces but if there is oil on the surface of the pasta, this will act as a lubricant, making the sauce more likely to slide off the pasta.
Cook the pasta how you like it. In Italy, pasta is always cooked “al dente”, which means “to the bite”. Meaning that it is always slightly undercooked and has a little bite to it. When you bite into the pasta, there should be a tiny, firm bit in the cross section. If the pasta requires 8 minutes to cook, cook for 7, taste and then drain and cool to stop it from cooking more.
If you are familiar with Italian cooking, it can be very rule-oriented in its approach to food, often seen as quite rigid in what goes with what and what doesn’t go with what. As this is a plant-based course and we tend to be a little rebellious in nature, please excuse our deviations from some of the Italian rules. If we are insulting your Italian Nonna’s famous recipes, it is not intentional. We need to bring flavours from different areas!
Sample Lesson: The Happy Shape Food Pillars
Below are the 10 key Happy Shape Pillars that will help to ensure you achieve your goals and find your happy shape! We have explained each of them here and there is also a downloadable list, which you can print and put somewhere that you can see each day.
Eat a whole food plant based diet – fruit, veg, beans, legumes, whole grains, nuts & seeds.
Eat as much as you like, provided you are sticking to these food principles. All health score 5 recipes are suitable!
Eat only wholegrain products – That means choosing brown carbs over white carbs, no white flour products etc.
Ensure that packaged whole foods you eat with a label have a fat content below 10%.
Don’t eat any refined or processed foods.
Don’t eat any animal based foods – no meat, chicken or fish.
Don’t eat any dairy products.
Don’t eat any eggs.
Don’t use any oil – this includes all oils: olive oil, sunflower, avocado, flax oil.
Eat nuts, seeds and avocados sparingly.
1. Eat a whole food plant-based diet
This is a diet based 100% on whole foods, it is comprised of: fruit, veg, beans, legumes, whole grains and small amounts of nuts and seeds. The benefits of following this diet are:
It’s high in fibre
It’s naturally low in fat
It does not contain dietary cholesterol
It’s high in water
It does not contain saturated or trans fats
It’s packed with antioxidants and other phytonutrients which aid blood flow.
It’s low in calories
2. Eat as much as you like, provided you stick to the guidelines
With this diet there is no calorie counting, no portion control (except for desserts!), so you can eat as much as you like, providing you are sticking to these 10 guidelines.
Here’s how this works:
A whole food plant based diet is naturally high in fibre:
Fibre fills you up.
It slows down the speed at which you eat.
High-fibre foods take longer to eat as a result your body registers that you are filling up quicker and reduces your hunger.
Fibre contains no calories.
You only get fibre from whole plant foods.
Whole food plant-based foods are high in water:
Water adds weight to your food
Water has no calories
A whole food plant-based diet is naturally low in calories:
By cutting out refined and processed foods, you can dramatically reduce overeating of ‘empty’ calories – refined foods that have no fibre and don’t fill you up or satisfy your hunger.
By cutting out animal foods, we further reduce calories.
By cutting out oil, we further cut the calories.
The only recipes we have included portion control in this book are not surprisingly the dessert section, as they are more calorie-dense and contain less water.
3. Use only wholegrain products
Wholegrain products are the brown carbs : brown rice, wholemeal pasta, wholemeal couscous, wholemeal noodles, 100% wholemeal bread. On this challenge we want you to eat 100% of your grain-based foods from wholegrain/wholemeal sources.
At least 80% of the carbohydrates we eat in the UK and Ireland are white carbs. We want to replace these white carbs that are low in fibre and devoid of any real nutrition with 100% brown carbs.
Wholegrain products are:
High in fibre
Low in calories
Packed with nutrition
4. Ensure the packaged whole foods that you eat with a label have a fat content below 10%
To find out the fat percentage content of a product, look at the back of the product’s packet, where you will find the nutritional information. Fat will be listed in weight per the size of the product and per 100g. Simply look at the fat content per 100g and this will give you the percentage fat. Anything above 10g per 100g is not suitable for the challenge.
5. Don’t eat any refined or processed foods
More than half of all the calories eaten in Ireland, the UK, and most of the first world come from refined and processed foods, so we really do understand how challenging giving up these foods is. We advise you to simply focus on the 4 weeks of this challenge and don’t be thinking beyond this. What is sustainable is joy, feeling good, having more energy, feeling happy and confident in your body so we suggest you focus on these!
By cutting out these refined and processed foods you are avoiding a lot of ‘empty’ calories that are devoid of nutrition and have other negative effects on your health.
Here are some facts about these foods:
They have no fibre
They are usually high sugar
They are usually high in salt (80% of the salt we eat is not from the salt shaker but from refined and processed foods)
They are usually high in fat, especially saturated fat, which has been linked to gaining weight
They have the biggest effect on increasing cholesterol levels
They are usually high in calories
They are ‘empty’ calories meaning the have very little vitamins or minerals in them and will not fill you up either
By refined and processed foods, we mean chocolate bars, snack bars, crisps, processed cereals, cakes, croissants, fizzy drinks etc. This means saying goodbye to most packaged foods, as they are typically a combination of fat, sugar and salt, and are highly addictive.
6. Don’t eat any animal based foods – no meat, chicken or fish
You may think eating no animal based foods for 4 weeks sounds extreme but we think that the reality of 45% of people dying in Europe every year due to heart disease is even more extreme! By animal based foods we mean beef, lamb, chicken turkey, ham, salami, sausages, bacon and even fish too. That is red meat, white meat and fish – basically exclude any foods that had a face or a mother! Again, focus on the fact that this is a 4 week challenge, it is a limited time, you can take a rain check after the 4 weeks.
Why we exclude animal based foods:
They have no fibre
They are high in saturated fat
They contain cholesterol
They contain very little antioxidants (the only antioxidants they contain are from the plants the animals consumed)
They are low in vitamins and minerals compared to plant-based foods
Animal foods contain only 2 of the 3 macro-nutrients: fat and protein. They are missing the number-one source of energy for your body: carbohydrates. Whole plant foods have 20-80% of their calories coming from carbohydrates, giving you a slow sustained energy release.
Animal foods are also high in saturated fat and contain trans fats, both of which are considered the ‘bad’ fats that can cause poor health outcomes. Whole plant foods only contain the ‘good fat’ such as polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats.
7. Don’t eat any dairy products
This means cheese, milk, butter and yogurt made from dairy products. Dairy products are typically high in saturated fat, particularly cheese, which is the highest source of saturated fat in our diet. They also contain cholesterol and are low in vitamins and minerals when compared to whole plant foods.
Why we exclude dairy products:
They are high in saturated fat
They contain cholesterol
They are often high in hormones
They have no fibre
8. Don’t eat any eggs
Eggs are the most concentrated source of cholesterol in the common diet, one large egg has about 200 milligrams of dietary cholesterol in the yolk with the daily maximum limit of cholesterol in your diet being 300mg and only 200mg if you are at risk of heart disease.
9. Don’t use any oil, that includes all oils – olive oil, sunflower, avocado, flax oil
Bear with us, we know this sounds really harsh and extreme. However, in our experience of having tens of thousands of people reduce their risk of heart disease and improve their health in just 4 weeks, cutting out oil is highly beneficial. It effectively lowers cholesterol levels, improves blood flow, improves skin and assists in weight loss, and you won’t even taste the difference, the food is equally as delicious!
We are aware that this may come across as super contentious and that on top of all the other ‘DONTS’ on this list, excluding oil seems very extreme but bear with us! Oil is 100% fat and a refined fat too.
Oil is the most calorie dense substance on the plant at 8000/cal per litre, that is 120 calories/tablespoon. These are ‘empty’ calories as in they have no fibre and little to no nutrition. It is the ultimate refined food in that we extract it from the whole food, discarding the fibre and nearly all the vitamins and minerals leaving us with nothing but the fat.
We are not against fat entirely, but we recommend you get your fat from whole food sources such as small amounts of nuts, seeds, and avocados. Most people who start our challenges/courses think they could never cook without using oil but end up surprised by how easy it is and how quickly their palate adjusts to oil free cooking. It is also much easier to wash your pots and pans after cooking without oil!
10. Eat nuts, seeds and avocados sparingly
Here we are talking about raw nuts and seeds (exclude all salted or roasted nuts ). Raw nuts and seeds are super healthful and packed full of beneficial fats. However, we only need very little of them in order to get their benefits. Particularly with nuts, it is very easy to sit there and eat a full 100g while watching something on your phone, however, we only need very little to get the real benefit from them and going above this can cause inflammation and have a negative effect on our cardiovascular health.
Nuts
We ask you to limit your intake of nuts to about 30g a day which is about:
20 almonds
10 walnuts
10 brazil nuts
15 pecan nuts
The healthiest of all nuts in terms of the highest omega 3 and lowest saturated fat are walnuts. In terms of nut butters and tahini we ask you to cut them out for the 4 weeks of the challenge (unless they are included in one of our recipes which is okay). As a snack, they are just so tasty which makes them very difficult to stop eating, so best to just go cold turkey and exclude them for the 4 weeks.
Seeds
We have found people are much less likely to overeat seeds, however, they are also a concentrated source of calories (about 5000cals/kg) and average about 30% fat (but tend to be low in saturated fat). We definitely encourage you to eat seeds but not a full bag!
Try to limit your seed intake to a few tablespoons a day or approx 30g. Seeds are great sprinkled over your porridge in the morning or over a salad at lunch.
Avocados
Like seeds and nuts, avocados are super healthy for you. However, they are energy dense and high in fat, so we encourage you to limit your avocado intake to a maximum of half an avocado, every second day.
Sample Lesson: Happy Menopause – Is HRT Right for Me?
HRT is also known as Hormone Therapy (HT) or Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT). It is the use of hormones, for managing perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms and to try and minimise some of the longer-term effects of menopause.
HRT can be very effective for and very helpful for many women especially when symptoms adversely affect quality of life.
HRT is useful for relief of menopausal symptoms including:
Hot flushes
Night sweats
Vaginal dryness…
And it can also help with mood and libido
HRT can also benefit women who are not suffering significant menopausal symptoms but wish to get the benefits of hormone therapy such as protection for their heart and bones, ideally starting it within ten years of menopause or before the age of 60.
However, do remember hormone therapy will not change life circumstances and stress perhaps due to other factors. In these situations, HRT may not be as helpful as one hoped.
Also not all women can or want to take hormone therapy and should be supported in their decision with appropriate evidence-based information.
That said, do remember HRT is safe for the vast majority of women with no real risks with breast cancer or clots with the current preparations
Before starting HRT, your doctor will take a thorough history from you and examine you appropriately. They should advise you on the preparations most suited for you as well as any risks and benefits specifically for you as well as discuss any concerns you may have. Do mention to your doctor any MEDICAL information including any known relevant family history.
HRT is available as tablets, skin patches, gels or nasal spray.
HRT provides low doses of oestrogen and progesterone. You don’t need progesterone if you have had your womb removed as it is used to protect your womb from developing uterine cancer if only oestrogen is used.
Sometimes testosterone is added to improve sex drive, libido, bone health and concentration.
I also tell my patients, whether you plan to use HRT or not, do try and follow a lifestyle and a diet that helps you with your menopausal symptoms and overall health and wellbeing.
There is a lot more written information on HRT that you can also access during the course.
Sample Lesson: Gut Health – Why all health begins in the gut
In medicine we have known that gut health is crucial to overall health for a very long time. Over 2 thousand years ago, Hippocrates “the father of modern medicine”, taught his students that all health begins in the gut. In 21st century we now recognise there was so much truth in that. We have learnt this through unlocking the secret world of the human gut microbiome.
When we are born, from our first human breath to our first human touch; the microbes in the environment populate our bodies and our digestive system. They help us to digest our first meal, without them our intricate digestive system would not even develop properly, nor would our immune system.
By adulthood, this microbiome has grown to an impossibly complex ecosystem, found predominantly in our large bowel or colon. Made up of over 100 trillion microbes, bacteria, yeasts, viruses, and archaea. They have been described as a control centre for human biology. Interacting with the food we eat, each other, and the delicate lining of our digestive system.
The microbe that exist in us are descendants from the planets first inhabitants, they have been on the earth for thousands and thousands of years.
Your gut microbes outnumber the trees on planet earth, in fact they outnumber all the stars in the Milky Way! We are equal parts human and microbes, in fact our gut microbes contain far more genetic material than our human cells.
Our microbes produce dozens – if not hundreds of chemicals that interact with our body, enter our bloodstream, and help to determine our health. They truly are a control centre for human biology – with crucial roles in regulating our appetite, blood sugars, inflammatory processes, and metabolic health.
This is a perfect symbiosis – our gut microbes depend upon us and we depend upon them. They want us to be healthy! On the journey to better gut health and better overall health – they are our crucial allies.
Sample Lesson: Sourdough Baking Course
It’s really easy to start your own sourdough mother, and it’s like growing your own pet that will require feeding and minding. It simply requires flour, water and time.
What flour to use?
You can start a mother (culture) with most flours, but make sure to choose a flour that is easy to come by, is not that expensive, as the mother will require regular feeding. We use a white flour-based mother culture in our bakery, and I also have a wholemeal spelt mother at home. A white flour will have more sugars available and less fibre than a wholemeal flour, so the mother will grow quicker and therefore require more regular feeding. Wholemeal flour has a higher fibre content, so it will absorb more moisture and be slightly less active than white flour.
Method
In a 400-ml clean jam jar, add:
50g of flour of choice (we prefer 100% wholewheat or wholemeal spelt)
50 ml of water
Mix well until homogenous. Cover with a tea towel to stop flies from entering while still allowing air and natural yeast to enter.
Leave it to sit on the countertop for 3-5 days out of direct sunlight.
Once it smells yeasty and slightly beer-like or brewery-like and has small bubbles in it, it is ready to go and get its first feed. You now have your very own sourdough mother to love and look after, which will hopefully nourish you and your friends and family!
It is important to note that whatever flour your mother culture was created with is the flour you will always have to feed it, so for example, if you used wholemeal spelt flour, then your mother culture needs to always be fed wholemeal spelt flour. You can change the type of flour over time, but this is a gradual process.
Feeding your new mother culture
Your sourdough culture will now need to be fed daily. If you are going on holiday, either get a friend to feed it or simply put it in the fridge, and it will live for a week without feeding (when starting to bake from using your mother from the fridge, it will require 1 good feed before baking once out of the fridge to get it active for baking bread).
Pour out half of your mother culture into a bowl; this will be used to make bread. Now in the same jar, add:
50g flour (ensure it is the same flour as your mother culture was created with)
50 ml of water
Mix well, and leave.
How regularly should I feed my mother?
If your mother is living outside of the fridge, it will need to be fed daily. If it is in a warm environment, such as 20 degrees C, it might need to be fed twice daily. If your mother is living in the fridge, it will need to be fed weekly or, at a stretch, every second week.
If your mother is living in a cold environment, such as a kitchen in winter that is approx. 5 degrees C, it will need to be fed once per week, as this environment is similar to a fridge.
Gochujang-Inspired Tofu Meatballs
A delicious, savoury, Korean-inspired plant-based dish packed with umami and a gentle kick of spice from gochujang. These tofu meatballs are perfect as a starter, party snack, or served with rice or noodles.
Takes 25 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
For the tofu meatballs:
500gfirm tofuapproximately 2 cups, tightly packed
10gfresh gingerpeeled and grated (approx. 2 teaspoons)
3garlic clovesminced
15gfresh corianderfinely chopped (approx. ½ cup packed)
Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F). Crumble the tofu into a large mixing bowl. Add the grated ginger, garlic, coriander, and spring onions. Stir in the tamari, gochujang, maple syrup, and panko breadcrumbs. Mix thoroughly, squeezing the mixture with your hands until it comes together and holds its shape.
Shape and bake the meatballs
Take about 2 tablespoons of the mixture per meatball and form roughly 9 evenly sized balls. Place them on a lined baking tray and bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning.
Make the sauce
While the meatballs are baking, heat a little oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté the red onion, ginger, and garlic for around 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the gochujang, tamari, maple syrup, stock (or water), and lemon juice. Simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
Coat the meatballs
Once baked, gently stir the meatballs through the sauce until evenly coated.
Serve and enjoy
Serve hot, garnished with extra coriander or spring onions if desired. Delicious alongside rice, noodles, or as a sharing appetiser.
This luscious, spreadable cashew-based fermented cheese has a delicate tang and rich umami notes, with a creamy texture reminiscent of a soft Brie—without the rind or the need for added cultures. Aged naturally using a 2% salt brine soak, this recipe is perfect for a savoury plant-based cheeseboard or luxurious toast topping.
Soak the cashews in brine: In a sterilised jar or container, dissolve 20g (about 1 tbsp) sea salt in 1 litre (4¼ cups) filtered water. Add the 200g (¾ cup) raw cashew nuts and ensure they are fully submerged using a sterilised weight or small jar. Loosely cover and leave at room temperature (18–22°C / 64–72°F) for 5 days. You should notice some bubbling and cloudiness, with a pleasant tangy aroma by day 5.
Drain and reserve brine
Strain the cashews: Remove the soaked cashews from the brine, discarding any floaters. Reserve 1–3 tablespoons of the fermented brine for blending. You can rinse the cashews briefly for a less salty result.
Blend the cheese base
Make the cheese mixture: In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the 200g (¾ cup) fermented cashews with 2 tsp white miso paste, 2 tbsp nutritional yeast, 1 tbsp lemon juice, ¼–½ tsp sea salt, and 1–3 tbsp reserved brine. Blend until silky smooth, scraping down the sides as needed. The mixture should be thick, creamy, and spreadable—adjust the brine as needed for smoother blending.
Ferment in cloth
Age the cheese: Transfer the cheese mixture into a double layer of cheesecloth or muslin. Place it in a sieve over a bowl or hang it in a cool, clean spot. Loosely cover with a clean tea towel and leave to ferment at room temperature for 2–3 days. Taste it daily—it should become tangy, cheesy, and complex in flavour.
Shape and chill
Set the cheese: After fermentation, shape the cheese into a small disc or round using a ring mould or ramekin if desired. Chill uncovered in the fridge for a few hours to allow the outer layer to firm. For a Brie-like appearance, dust the top with a little extra nutritional yeast or cracked white pepper.
Serve
Enjoy your plant-based Brie: Serve spread on crackers, warm sourdough, or with fruit compote. Store covered in the fridge for up to 5–7 days.
This easy, probiotic-rich kefir is made with homemade plant-based milk using either oats or almonds. It’s a great dairy-free alternative packed with beneficial bacteria to support gut health, improve digestion, and boost immunity. Kefir may also help with promoting skin health and enhancing nutrient absorption. We made our plant-based milk in the Namawell M1, which makes it super creamy and effortless, even without soaking the almonds. It’s a simple way to add a nourishing, probiotic boost to your daily routine!
Takes 1 dayday10 minutesminutes
Serves 4
Ingredients
For the Plant-Based Milk
100g1 cup raw almonds
1litre4 cups filtered water
Pinchof saltoptional, enhances flavour
3pitted dateoptional, for sweetness
For the Kefir
15g1 tbsp active water kefir grains
15g1 tbsp maple syrup or coconut sugar (optional, helps feed the culture)
1dried organic date
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients: Thanks to the NamaWell M1, there’s no need to soak the almonds, and it makes the milk super creamy and effortless to prepare.
Blend: Add the almonds, dates, pinch salt and water, to your NamaWell M1 milk maker and make your fresh almond milk – it’s so creamy!
Add the Kefir Grains: Pour 1 litre (4 cups) of the homemade almond milk into a clean glass jar and add the water kefir grains along with 1 tbsp of maple syrup and 1 ideally organic pitted date.
Mix & Cover: Stir gently with a wooden or plastic spoon (avoid metal as it can interfere with fermentation). Cover with a breathable cloth or lid that allows airflow.
Fermentation: Leave the jar at room temperature (20-25°C) for 12-24 hours. The kefir will thicken slightly and develop a tangy taste. The longer it ferments, the tangier it will become.
Strain & Store: Once it reaches the desired tanginess, strain out the water kefir grains using a non-metal strainer and transfer the kefir to a clean bottle. Store in the fridge.
Reusing Grains: Rinse the grains gently in filtered water and store them in sugar water when not in use. To make a new batch, add them to fresh almond milk with a small amount of sugar.
Enjoy! Use in smoothies, drink plain, or mix with fruit and granola for a delicious probiotic boost!
Notes
Tips:
Water kefir grains thrive on sugar, so adding a little maple syrup or coconut sugar helps keep them active.
Save leftover almond pulp from the M1 Milk Maker for baking, smoothies, or making almond flour.
A romantic, seasonal floral twist on a French classic.This elegant tart features ripe pears nestled in a delicately infused magnolia caramel, with fresh magnolia petals tucked beneath. When flipped, the petals imprint their subtle beauty and scent into the golden fruit—both stunning and delicious.
Takes 30 minutesminutes
Serves 6
Ingredients
For the caramel:
75g⅓ cup caster sugar or light brown sugar
2tbspwater
6fresh magnolia petalsensure an edible variety, e.g. Magnolia × soulangeana, torn for infusion
75g⅓ cup plant-based butter, cubed
For the tart:
2ripe pears
5–6 fresh magnolia petalswhole or halved (for layering under the pears)
1sheet of plant-based puff pastry
Instructions
Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F).
Infuse the caramel with magnolia:
In a 20cm (8-inch) ovenproof frying pan, combine the caster sugar, water, and torn magnolia petals. Warm gently for 2–3 minutes on low to allow the petals to infuse. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium and cook for 4–5 minutes until the mixture turns a light golden colour. Using tongs, remove and discard the petals.
Add butter to the caramel:
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the cubed plant-based butter. It may look like it’s splitting, but it will come together in the oven.
Layer magnolia and pears:
Slice the pears lengthways and fan them over the caramel in a spiral or rosette shape, overlapping slightly. These slices will be the top of your tart once it’s flipped, so arrange them with care.
Halve or quarter the remaining magnolia petals and place them over the pears in a scattered or circular pattern.
Top with pastry:
Roll out the puff pastry sheet and cut it slightly larger than your pan. Carefully lay it over the fruit and petals, tucking the edges down around the sides. Prick the pastry in a few places with a fork to let steam escape.
Bake until golden:
Bake for 20 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden.
Flip and serve:
Allow the tart to cool for 2 minutes. Place a serving plate over the pan and flip it over swiftly and confidently. Gently lift the pan away to reveal the beautifully caramelised pears and delicate floral magnolia.
Reposition any petals that may have shifted, slice, and enjoy!
Packed with a flavourful combination of black beans, a delicious cashew ‘cheese’ and spices, these quesadillas are a family favourite that always goes down well. Black beans are the star of the show here—they’re not only hearty and satisfying, but they’re also brilliant for gut health and keeping your energy steady. Paired with a smoky, spiced tomato mix and silky cashew cheese, these quesadillas are a real crowd-pleaser. This is one of our go-to recipes from The Happy Pear 20, our new cookbook celebrating 20 years of sharing tasty, veg-packed food.
Takes 20 minutesminutes
Serves 5
Ingredients
For the Quesadillas:
5wholewheat or corn tortillas
400gblack beans1 x 400g can, ~1½ cups drained
2spring onionsscallions
½red onion
10cherry tomatoes
1red chilli
1avocado
1tspcumin seeds
1tspground cumin
¼tspsmoked paprika
¼tspground black pepper
1tbsptamari or soy sauce
A pinch of salt
Juice of ½ lemon or 1 lime
A small bunch of fresh coriander15g / ½ cup loosely packed
For the Cashew Cheese Sauce:
100gcashews¾ cup
220mloat milkjust under 1 cup
½tspgarlic powder
1tsplemon juice
½tspsalt
Instructions
Soak the Cashews: Place cashews in a bowl and cover with just-boiled water. Let soak for 5 minutes.
Prepare the Vegetables: Peel and thinly slice the red onion. Thinly slice the spring onions at an angle. Drain and rinse the black beans. Quarter the cherry tomatoes. Finely chop the coriander and red chilli (de-seed for less heat). Thinly slice the avocado.
Cook the Black Bean Salsa: In a hot non-stick pan, add 1 tablespoon or a few sprays of oil and fry the onions, spring onion, and chilli for 2 minutes, stirring continuously. Add cumin seeds, ground cumin, smoked paprika, tamari, citrus juice, and salt. Cook for 30 seconds, then add beans and tomatoes. Cook for 2 more minutes, mashing lightly.
Make the Cashew Cheese Sauce: Drain and rinse the soaked cashews. Blend with oat milk, garlic powder, lemon juice, and salt in a blender until smooth.
Assemble the Quesadillas: Heat a dry pan and warm a tortilla for 30 seconds. Spread about 3 tbsp of cashew cheese on the tortilla, add a portion of the bean mixture on one side of the tortilla, and top with avocado slices, chopped coriander, and chilli. Fold the tortilla over, cook until browned, then remove and slice. Repeat with remaining tortillas and ingredients.
Serve: Enjoy the quesadillas hot, with any remaining cashew cheese stored in the fridge for up to 5 days for other uses
These no-bake Easter treats are made with a naturally sweetened cookie dough centre and wrapped in a thick, creamy coating of homemade plant-based white chocolate—tinted naturally with beetroot and matcha for a beautiful springtime twist. They're fun to make, full of nourishing ingredients, and absolutely delicious to eat!
Takes 55 minutesminutes
Serves 10
Ingredients
For the cookie dough:
120g¾ cup cashew nuts
80g½ cup pitted dates
30ml2 tbsp oat milk
1tsppure vanilla extract
A pinch of sea salt
50g⅓ cup dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs
For the plant-based white chocolate coating:
100gcacao butter
2–3 tbsp30–45g cashew butter or macadamia butter
2–3 tbsp30–45ml maple syrup or agave syrup, to taste
1tspvanilla extract or vanilla bean powder
A pinch of sea salt
For natural colouring:
1tspbeetroot powderfor pink
½tspmatcha powderfor green
Instructions
Make the cookie dough base:
In a food processor, blend the cashew nuts, pitted dates, oat milk, vanilla extract, and salt until a sticky dough forms and clumps into a ball.
Add the chocolate chips:
Transfer the dough to a bowl and fold in the chocolate chips or cacao nibs. Stir to combine evenly.
Shape into eggs:
Using your hands, roll the dough into 10–12 small egg-shaped pieces. Place on a lined tray or plate and chill in the freezer for at least 20 minutes to firm up.
Make the white chocolate coating:
In a heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water, gently melt the cacao butter. Once melted, stir in the cashew (or macadamia) butter, maple syrup (to taste), vanilla, and sea salt. Whisk until smooth and glossy.
Divide and colour the coating:
Split the white chocolate mixture into two bowls. Add beetroot powder to one for a pink hue and matcha to the other for a green tone. Stir each until well blended.
Coat the cookie dough eggs:
Dip each chilled dough egg into your coloured coatings, using a fork to lift and tap off any excess. Place back onto the tray. Once all are coated, repeat for a second layer to build a thicker shell. Chill in the fridge or freezer until fully set.
Alternative coating:
If you prefer, melt the dark chocolate and dip the chilled cookie dough eggs as above. Allow to set completely.
To serve:
Once fully set, your Easter Cookie Dough Eggs are ready to enjoy! Store them in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for longer freshness.
These crispy, golden potato towers are a delicious twist on a classic roastie — perfect as a side dish for your Easter roast or any springtime spread. We got the potatoes from our farm and tossed them in a vibrant wild garlic oil made from freshly foraged wild garlic — one of our favourite signs of spring! We’ve been highlighting seasonal veg with VegPower and celebrating simple ways to make them shine. These stacks are a great way to enjoy the short but glorious wild garlic season and make potatoes the hero of the plate.
Takes 1 hourhour
Serves 12
Ingredients
Wild Garlic Oil Ingredients:
25gwild garlic1 small bunch (or 2 cloves of fresh garlic)
100mlolive oilabout ⅓ cup
3tbspbalsamic vinegar45ml or 3 tbsp
2tbspmaple syrup30ml or 2 tbsp
1tspsalt
Pinchblack pepper
Potato Tower Ingredients:
500gpotatoesabout 4 medium potatoes
350gsweet potato1 medium sweet potato
Instructions
Make the Wild Garlic Oil
Wash the wild garlic thoroughly and roughly chop it. If you can’t find wild garlic, peel and finely dice the fresh garlic.
Add the chopped wild garlic, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, salt, and black pepper to a large bowl and mix until well combined.
Make the Potato Tower
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Grease a 12-hole muffin tin lightly with olive oil or line with parchment circles.
Wash and thinly slice the potatoes and sweet potatoes into rounds, about 2mm thick. A mandolin works best for uniform slices.
In a large bowl, toss the potato slices with the wild garlic oil until well coated. Season with salt and pepper.
Stack the slices into the muffin tin holes, layering them evenly and slightly overlapping. Overfill each hole, as the stacks will shrink as they bake. Insert a cocktail stick or wooden skewer into each potato tower to make them easier to serve.
Bake in the oven for 45–50 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and crispy, and the centres are tender when pierced with a knife.
Allow to cool for 5 minutes before carefully removing with a spoon or small offset spatula.
We’ve heard so much this year about the viral Dubai Chocolate that we just had to turn it into a cake. While this version isn’t strictly traditional—Dubai chocolate is typically made with kataifi pastry (a shredded filo)—we didn’t have access to that, so we got creative. By very finely slicing a roll of filo pastry and baking it until crisp, we recreated a similar texture that works beautifully in this decadent, layered cake. With rich chocolate sponge, whipped pistachio buttercream, and shards of golden filo running through the filling, this one’s a real showstopper!
Takes 1 hourhour45 minutesminutes
Serves 10
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
280g2¼ cups self-raising flour
20g2 tbsp cornflour (cornstarch)
250g1¼ cups caster sugar
40g½ cup cacao powder
1tspbaking powder
½tspbicarbonate of sodabaking soda
Pinchof saltoptional
Wet Ingredients
350ml1½ cups oat milk (or other plant-based milk)
100g½ cup neutral oil (e.g. sunflower or rapeseed)
1½tspapple cider vinegar
1tspvanilla extract
Liquid from 1 tin of chickpeasfor aquafaba
2tbspicing sugarfor whipping the aquafaba
Pistachio Filo Buttercream Filling
For the roasted filo:
135gapprox. 3 sheets filo pastry
20g1½ tbsp neutral oil or melted vegan butter
For the pistachio butter:
200g1½ cups shelled, unsalted pistachios
2tbspneutral oile.g. sunflower
Pinchof sea salt
For the buttercream:
200g¾ cup + 2 tbsp vegan block butter
380g3 cups icing sugar, sifted
2tbspplant-based milk
1tspvanilla extract
Instructions
Prepare the Aquafaba
Drain a tin of chickpeas and reserve the liquid. In a clean bowl, whisk the chickpea liquid with 2 tbsp icing sugar using a hand or stand mixer on high speed until soft peaks form (about 3–5 minutes). Set aside.
Bake the Cake
Preheat your oven to 170°C fan (190°C conventional / 340°F). Grease and line 2 x 15cm (6-inch) springform tins with baking parchment.
In a large bowl, sift together all the dry ingredients and whisk to combine. In a jug, mix the oat milk, oil, vinegar and vanilla. Pour the wet mix into the dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix. Fold in half of the whipped aquafaba to lighten the batter.
Divide the batter evenly between the tins, smooth the tops, and bake for 50–55 minutes, rotating halfway through. The cakes are done when a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean. Cool in the tins for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Make the Crispy Filo
While the cakes are baking, prepare the crispy filo. Roll the filo sheets into a loose cigar shape and slice into very fine 1–2mm strips. Gently separate the strands and toss with oil or melted vegan butter. Spread evenly over a lined baking tray and bake at 170°C for 10–15 minutes, stirring once, until golden and crisp. Allow to cool completely, then crumble into small shards.
Make the Pistachio Butter
In a food processor, blend the pistachios with the oil and salt until they form a thick paste. Keep blending until smooth and spreadable. Let cool slightly if warm.
Make the Buttercream
Using an electric mixer, beat the vegan butter in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Gradually add the sifted icing sugar, plant milk, and vanilla extract. Once smooth, fold in the pistachio butter until fully incorporated.
Add the Crispy Filo
Set aside ¼ of the pistachio buttercream (without filo) to use for the top layer. Gently fold the crispy filo shards into the remaining ¾ of the buttercream until evenly mixed.
Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes are fully cooled, level the tops with a serrated knife if domed. Slice each sponge horizontally in half to create four even layers.
Place a small dab (about 1 tbsp) of the plain pistachio buttercream onto your cake stand or plate to secure the first sponge. Add the first layer, then spread a generous portion (about ⅓) of the pistachio filo buttercream over it. Repeat with the remaining layers, using the crispy filo buttercream between each. For the top layer, use the reserved plain buttercream for a smooth, creamy finish.
These bite-sized cereal balls are packed with flavour and texture, making them perfect for breakfast or as a satisfying snack. With a rich chocolate taste, natural sweetness, and a boost of protein from quinoa, they are both nutritious and delicious. Enjoy them with your favourite dairy-free milk or grab a handful for an on-the-go snack!
Takes 40 minutesminutes
Serves 4
Ingredients
350g2 cups cooked quinoa, cooled
125g1 1/4 cups oat flour
75ml1/3 cup peanut butter
20g1/4 cup cocoa powder
60g1/3 cup coconut sugar
45ml3 tablespoons maple syrup
5ml1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Preheat the oven and prepare baking trays: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line two large baking sheets (approximately 45cm x 30cm / 18in x 12in) with parchment paper.
Blend the ingredients: In a food processor, add the cooked quinoa, coconut sugar, cocoa powder, oat flour, peanut butter, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Blend for 2 minutes until a sticky chocolate batter forms, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
Shape the cereal balls: Lightly oil your hands, take small pieces of dough, and roll them into small balls. Place them on the prepared baking sheets, ensuring they do not touch. If the dough becomes too sticky, wash and dry your hands, then re-oil before continuing.
Bake the cereal: Place the baking sheets on the centre rack of the oven and bake for 30–40 minutes, shaking the tray halfway through to ensure even baking on all sides.
Cool and harden: Remove the baking sheets from the oven and allow the cereal to cool for 30 minutes. The pieces will harden as they cool.
Serve: Enjoy with any dairy-free milk or eat as a crunchy snack on its own.
High-Protein Gluten-Free Lasagna with Tofu Sheets & Cashew Cream
A protein-rich, gluten-free vegan lasagna using tofu sheets in place of pasta, a flavour-packed tomato-lentil-spinach sauce, and a silky cashew cream topping. Delicious, nourishing, and satisfying.
Takes 1 hourhour
Serves 6
Ingredients
Tofu Lasagna Sheets
1x 250g pack tofu sheets
Tomato-Lentil Sauce
1tbspolive oil
1medium onion
4clovesgarlic
1red chilli
1medium carrot
5sun-dried tomatoesdry, not in oil
1x 680g jar tomato passata
100gwalnuts
1x 400g tin cooked lentils
100gtomato purée
100gfresh spinach
1tbsptamari or soy sauce
1½tbspmaple syrup
½tspsalt
¼tspblack pepper
Cashew Cream
200graw cashews
350mloat milk
50mlneutral-tasting olive oil
Juice of 1/2 lime
Generous pinch of salt
¼tspblack pepper
Instructions
Make the Tomato-Lentil Sauce
Preheat oven to 180°C (fan).
Peel and finely chop the onion and garlic. Finely chop the chilli (deseed if preferred). Grate the carrot. Finely chop the sun-dried tomatoes. Roughly chop the walnuts. Rinse and drain the lentils. Roughly chop the spinach.
Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, chilli, and grated carrot. Sauté for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and fragrant.
Add sun-dried tomatoes, walnuts, lentils, and tomato purée. Stir well. Pour in the passata, then add tamari, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for 2–3 more minutes until wilted. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Make the Cashew Cream
Add the cashew nuts to a blender along with oat milk, olive oil, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until very smooth and creamy. Add more oat milk to loosen if needed and season to taste.
Assemble the Lasagna
Use a 25cm x 18cm x 6cm deep baking dish.
Spread a thin layer of cashew cream over the base.
Add a layer of tofu sheets, trimming to fit.
Spread over half the tomato-lentil-spinach sauce.
Add a layer of cashew cream on top of the tomato sauce
Add another layer of tofu sheets, then the remaining sauce.
Finish with a final layer of tofu sheets and top with the remaining cashew cream.
Bake
Bake in the oven at 180°C (fan) for 15–20 minutes, or until the top layer of cream is set and slightly golden.
Inspired by the traditional Tuscan courgette tart known as Scarpaccia, this seasonal version celebrates wild garlic in place of courgette. While courgette is classic, this variation keeps the spirit of Scarpaccia alive — a rustic, crisp-edged, savoury bake made with simple batter and seasonal vegetables. Think pizza meets flatbread meets a potato cake!
Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F). Line a baking sheet or two 8-inch tart tins with parchment paper.
Prepare the batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, water, olive oil, salt, and black pepper until smooth and lump-free. Set aside to rest while you prepare the topping.
Prepare the vegetables and wild garlic: Grate the potatoes and squeeze out excess moisture using a clean tea towel. Thinly slice the red onion, mince the garlic, and finely chop the wild garlic leaves. In a mixing bowl, toss the grated potato, red onion, garlic, and wild garlic with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and a generous pinch of salt.
Assemble the Scarpaccia: Evenly spread the vegetable and wild garlic mixture over the prepared tray or tart tins. Sprinkle over the thyme and rosemary. Pour the prepared batter evenly over the top, ensuring the vegetables are well coated. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Bake the Scarpaccia: Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until the edges are golden and crispy and the centre is set and firm. If the centre is still too soft, bake for an additional 5–10 minutes.
Cool and serve: Let the Scarpaccia cool for a few minutes before slicing into squares or wedges. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Epic, incredibly tasty, and made in just one pan — these oil-free nachos are a healthier take on a party classic. With a rich lentil bolognese-style sauce, creamy cashew queso, and all your favourite toppings, this makes a brilliant shared dish that’s easy to prepare and full of flavour.
Takes 20 minutesminutes
Serves 3
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
1large bunch spring onionsscallions
400gtin kidney beansdrained and rinsed
400gtin cooked lentilsdrained and rinsed
2x 400g tins chopped tomatoes
30ml2 tbsp tamari or soy sauce
15ml1 tbsp maple syrup
8g1 tbsp cumin seeds
8g1 tbsp smoked paprika
8g1 tbsp ground cumin
Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Quick Cashew Cheese (Queso):
175gabout 1 cup cashew nuts
2.5g1 tsp garlic powder
15mlabout 1 tbsp lemon juice (juice of ½ lemon)
2.5g½ tsp salt
2.5g½ tsp black pepper
175mlabout ¾ cup water
To Finish:
200gabout 7 cups corn chips
1ripe avocado
30mljuice of 1 lime
15gfresh coriandercilantro, roughly chopped
1red chillithinly sliced
A few spoonfuls of pickled red onions or chipotle chillies
Instructions
Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 200°C (392°F).
Prepare the sauce: Finely slice the spring onions. In a large casserole dish, combine the sliced spring onions, kidney beans, lentils, chopped tomatoes, tamari, maple syrup, cumin seeds, smoked paprika, and ground cumin. Season with salt and black pepper. Mix well and bake for 15 minutes.
Make the cashew cheese: While the sauce is baking, blend the cashew nuts, garlic powder, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and water in a blender or food processor until silky smooth.
Prepare the toppings: Peel and thinly slice the avocado. Roughly chop the coriander and thinly slice the red chilli.
Assemble the nachos: Remove the sauce from the oven and stir in half of the corn chips. Drizzle over some of the cashew cheese. Top with sliced avocado, lime juice, sliced red chilli, chopped coriander, and a few spoonfuls of pickled red onions or chipotle chillies.
Serve: Serve immediately and enjoy this one-pan feast while still warm!
A beautifully floral, gently sparkling seasonal non-alcoholic champagne made using magnolia syrup and wild fermentation. This refined botanical drink captures the essence of spring in a bottle—with no alcohol and only naturally occurring fizz. It's a celebration of seasonal abundance using ingredients locally available in March in the UK and Ireland. While not technically a traditional champagne, as it’s not made from grapes or through the classic fermentation process, it makes for a delicious non-alcoholic alternative, full of seasonal flavors
Takes 6 daysdays30 minutesminutes
Serves 8
Ingredients
For the magnolia syrup:
15g1 cup magnolia petals, loosely packed
90ml6 tbsp maple syrup
180ml¾ cup water
For the fermentation:
Magnolia syrupapprox. 200ml
450g3 organic apples, grated
1organic orangezest and flesh (roughly chopped or mashed, peel removed)
50g3 tbsp fresh organic ginger root, grated
1.5litres6 cups water
Instructions
Prepare the magnolia syrup
In a small saucepan, combine the magnolia petals, maple syrup, and water. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, allowing the mixture to reduce slightly. Strain and set aside to cool. You should have around 200ml of syrup.
Prepare the fruit and ginger
Finely slice the apples and orange, leaving the skins on (as long as they’re clean and organic). Roughly chop the ginger—no need to peel if organic.
Mix the fermentation base
In a clean 2.5–4 litre glass jar, combine the magnolia syrup with the 1.5 litres of water, then add the sliced apples, orange, and ginger. Stir well to integrate all ingredients.
Begin fermentation
Cover the jar with a breathable cloth or fermentation lid. Let it sit at room temperature (18–22°C) for 2–4 days. It should gradually develop a gentle fizz, floral notes, and a lightly tangy, aromatic flavour.
Strain and bottle
Sieve out the apple, orange, and ginger, then pour the liquid into swing-top glass bottles or plastic bottles, leaving about 2cm of headspace. Seal tightly.
Build carbonation
Leave the sealed bottles at room temperature for 1–2 more days to build natural champagne-like effervescence. Then move them to the fridge to slow fermentation and preserve freshness. Make sure to “burp” each bottle daily to avoid excess carbonation and prevent overflow when opening.
Serve and enjoy!
Chill well. Open bottles with care—they may be lively! Pour into champagne flutes or coupe glasses and enjoy your wild-crafted, non-alcoholic magnolia champagne.
A rich, creamy chocolate spread made with sunflower seed butter and naturally sweetened with maple syrup. This nut-free, refined sugar-free alternative to Nutella is smooth, glossy, and perfectly spreadable — ideal for toast, crepes, porridge, or straight off the spoon.
Gently melt 30g coconut oil in a small saucepan or heatproof bowl until fully liquid but not hot.
Blend the base ingredients
In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine 120g sunflower seed butter, 75g maple syrup, 30g cocoa powder, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1/4 tsp sea salt.
Add melted coconut oil and blend until silky
With the motor running, slowly drizzle in the melted coconut oil. Blend for 1–2 minutes until the mixture is super smooth, fluffy, and glossy. Scrape down the sides to ensure everything is fully incorporated.
Check texture and adjust if needed
If it’s too thick, add 1–2 tsp warm water and blend again to loosen. If too runny, refrigerate for 10–15 minutes to firm slightly — it will thicken a little as it cools.
Store and serve
Spoon into a clean jar or airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to 1 week or refrigerate for up to 3 weeks. Allow to come to room temperature for the ideal spreadable texture.
Notes
Tips for Ultra-Silky, Fluffy Texture
Use a powerful blender or food processor — the smoother you blend, the more whipped and creamy it will become.
Warm your sunflower seed butter slightly (just to soften, not hot) before blending — this helps with emulsification.
Use refined coconut oil for a neutral taste and that signature glossy spreadability — it mimics the texture-enhancing role palm oil plays in Nutella.
Add maple syrup slowly while blending — this helps create a stable emulsion and prevents separation.
Let it blend longer than you think — often 2–3 minutes of blending creates a noticeably fluffier result.
These luxurious truffles are inspired by the viral Dubai-style chocolate knafeh bars, reimagined as beautiful truffles. They feature a creamy pistachio centre, crisp shards of golden filo pastry, and a rich dark chocolate shell topped with rose petals—a perfect bite-sized indulgence for Mother’s Day.
20gneutral oil or melted plant-based butter1½ tbsp
For the Pistachio Filling:
200gshelledunsalted pistachios (1⅓ cups)
60gmaple syrup4 tbsp
75gcoconut oil⅓ cup
10gvanilla extract2 tsp
A pinch of sea salt
For the Chocolate Coating:
200gdark chocolatechopped (1⅓ cups)
To Finish:
Dried rose petals
Instructions
Prepare the crispy filo:
Preheat the oven to 170°C (fan 150°C) / 340°F. Roll the filo pastry into a loose cigar shape and slice into thin strips about 1–2mm wide. Gently separate the strands and place them in a bowl. Toss with the neutral oil or melted plant-based butter until lightly coated. Spread evenly on two parchment-lined baking trays and bake for 10–15 minutes until golden and crisp. Allow to cool fully, then crumble into small shards.
Make the pistachio filling:
In a food processor, blend the pistachios, maple syrup, coconut oil, vanilla extract, and sea salt until smooth and spreadable. Scrape down the sides as needed during blending. Once smooth, transfer to a large mixing bowl.
Add the crispy filo:
Stir the crumbled crispy filo into the pistachio mixture and mix well. The mixture should be light, fluffy, and well coated in pistachio.
Roll into balls:
With clean hands, shape the mixture into 20 small balls, each about 3cm in diameter.
Melt the chocolate:
Melt the chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over simmering water, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until smooth and glossy.
Dip and decorate the truffles:
Using a fork or skewer, dip each pistachio ball into the melted chocolate, allowing excess chocolate to drip off. Place each coated truffle onto a parchment-lined tray. Before the chocolate sets, sprinkle with a few dried rose petals.
Set and store:
Let the truffles set at room temperature or chill briefly in the fridge. Once firm, place each truffle in a mini paper cup or gift box.
These high-protein tofu noodles are made by slicing tofu sheets (yuba or bean curd sheets) into thin noodle-like strips. With twice the protein content of regular noodles, they create a delicious, satisfying dish. This recipe combines them with a flavourful sauce and stir-fried vegetables for a quick, tasty, and nutrient-packed meal.
Takes 10 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
For the Sauce:
2tbsptamari or soy sauce
1tbspchilli paste or Korean gochujang
1tbspsesame oil
2clovesgarlicfinely grated
1tbspgrated ginger
1tbspmaple syrup or liquid sweetener of choice
1tbsprice vinegar or vinegar of choice
2tbspsesame seeds
2tbspwater
For the Vegetables:
4scallionsgreen onions, sliced at an angle
1courgettezucchini, julienned
1carrotjulienned
50ggreense.g., baby kale, spinach, or bok choy
For the Noodles:
200gtofu sheetsyuba/bean curd sheets
Instructions
Slice the tofu sheets into noodles: Roll the 200g tofu sheets into a cylinder and slice into thin strips, approximately 2cm (0.8 inch) wide, to resemble noodles.
Prepare the sauce: Peel and finely grate 2 cloves garlic and 1 tbsp ginger. In a bowl or measuring jug, whisk together 3 tbsp tamari , 2 tbsp chilli paste, 1 tbsp sesame oil, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds, and 2 tbsp water until fully combined.
Prepare the vegetables: Thinly slice 4 scallions at an angle. Julienne 1 courgette (zucchini), 1 carrot, and 1 red pepper into thin matchsticks. Set aside the 100g greens for later.
Stir-fry the veg: Heat a large non-stick frying pan over high heat. Once hot, add ½ tbsp oil and add the sliced scallions, julienned courgette, carrot, and red pepper to the pan, along with a pinch of salt. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until slightly softened.
Cook the remaining vegetables: Add the julienned courgette, carrot, and red pepper to the pan, along with a pinch of salt. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until slightly softened.
Combine the noodles and sauce: Add the sliced tofu noodles to the pan, followed by the prepared sauce. Toss everything together until evenly coated and heated through.
Taste and adjust: Check the seasoning, adjusting if necessary. Garnish with the 100g greens and extra toasted sesame seeds, if desired.
Serve and enjoy: Dish up the noodles immediately and enjoy a flavourful, protein-packed meal!
With just five ingredients, this no-bake treat is packed with fibre and is absolutely delicious! It comes together in minutes, making it the perfect healthier snack. The combination of creamy cashews, chewy dates, and rich chocolate is incredibly satisfying. Definitely worth making!
Takes 40 minutesminutes
Serves 12
Ingredients
Choc Chip Cookie Dough
120g¾ cup cashew nuts
80g½ cup pitted dates
2tablespoonsoat milk
1teaspoonpure vanilla extract
A pinch of salt
50g⅓ cup chocolate chips or cacao nibs
Chocolate Topping
150g1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
Blend the cookie dough base: In a food processor or blender, blend cashew nuts, pitted dates, oat milk, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until it comes together into one big ball.
Fold in the chocolate chips: Remove the dough from the processor, place it in a bowl, and fold in the chocolate chips or cacao nibs.
Flatten the dough: Line a plate with parchment paper. Place the cookie dough on top and flatten it into a large cookie shape, approximately 1cm (0.4 inches) high.
Melt the chocolate topping: Melt the chocolate chips and pour the melted chocolate evenly over the flattened cookie dough. Sprinkle with a little sea salt for extra flavour.
Set in the fridge: Transfer to the fridge and allow it to set for 30 minutes.
Slice and serve: Once the chocolate has hardened, remove from the fridge, slice into chunks, and enjoy!
A high-protein, umami-rich parmesan alternative made from tempeh! We weren’t sure if this would work at first, but to our surprise, it tastes absolutely fantastic! This tempeh-based parmesan is packed with flavor and makes a great topping for pasta, salads, and roasted vegetables.
Takes 14 hourshours10 minutesminutes
Serves 7
Ingredients
300g10.5 oz block of tempeh (we used rice tempeh)
1lemonjuiced (about 45g / 3 tbsp)
30g2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
18g1 tbsp miso paste
6g1 tbsp nutritional yeast
37g2.5 tbsp salt
150ml⅔ cup water
Instructions
Prepare the Tempeh:
Cut the tempeh into three even triangles.
Boil the Tempeh:
Fill a small saucepan with salted water, using approximately 18g (1 tbsp) of salt per 500ml (2 cups) of water. Bring to a boil, then add the tempeh and simmer for 15 minutes.
Make the Marinade:
While the tempeh is boiling, whisk together the lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, miso paste, nutritional yeast, salt, and water in a bowl until well combined.
Marinate Overnight:
Once the tempeh has finished boiling, transfer it directly into the marinade, ensuring it is submerged. Cover and refrigerate overnight (or for at least 12 hours) to allow the flavors to infuse.
Bake for Texture & Flavor:
Preheat the oven to 75°C (170°F). Remove the tempeh from the marinade, place it on a lined baking tray, and bake for 2 hours, or until it is firm and slightly dry.
Cool & Store:
Let the tempeh cool completely before crumbing or grating. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week.
While many people focus on getting enough protein, fibre is just as essential for gut health and overall well-being. This dish is a perfect balance of both, with baked tofu adding a satisfying texture and a rich, spiced green sauce that’s full of flavour.
Takes 35 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
Baked Tofu
500g2 cups firm tofu, cut into 1cm (0.4 inch) cubes
2tablespoonstamari or soy sauce
1tablespoonoil
Sauce Ingredients
10g2 teaspoons fresh ginger, roughly chopped
2clovesgarlicpeeled
250g4 cups fresh baby spinach or greens of choice (we used baby kale and spinach)
400ml1 ⅔ cups vegetable stock
Juice of ½ lemonabout 1 tablespoon
1tablespooncumin seeds
1teaspoongaram masala
1tablespooncurry powder
1tablespoontamari or soy sauce
1tablespoonmaple syrup
1teaspoonsalt
½teaspoonblack pepper
Other Ingredients
1red onionpeeled and finely sliced
1tablespoonoil
Serving Suggestions
Cooked rice
Red sauerkraut
Instructions
Prepare the tofu: Cut the firm tofu into 1cm (0.4 inch) cubes and place in a bowl. Add tamari or soy sauce and oil, then mix well to coat evenly.
Bake the tofu: Preheat the oven or air fryer to 200°C (392°F). Spread the tofu evenly on a baking tray and bake for 15–20 minutes, stirring once or twice, until golden brown.
Blend the sauce: In a blender or food processor, add fresh ginger, garlic, baby spinach or greens, vegetable stock, lemon juice, cumin seeds, garam masala, curry powder, tamari or soy sauce, maple syrup, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
Cook the base: Heat a frying pan over high heat. Once hot, add oil followed by the finely sliced red onion. Fry for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened.
Combine and cook: Add the baked tofu and blended sauce to the pan. Cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more salt, lemon juice, or sweetener if needed.
Serve: Plate up the curry with freshly cooked rice and a side of red sauerkraut for a delicious and healthy meal!
We recently made an Almond Croissant inspired Baked Oats recipe and got such amazing feedback, we knew we had to make a breakfast muffin version! These breakfast muffins have all the flavours of an almond croissant but in a wholesome, easy-to-make muffin form! They’re soft, nutty, and naturally sweetened, making them perfect for a nourishing breakfast or snack.
Takes 35 minutesminutes
Serves 12
Ingredients
2tbspground flax seeds
180g2 cups oats (use gluten-free for GF version)
50g⅓ cup flour (use GF flour for GF version)
160g1 ½ cups ground almonds
1tspbaking powder
1tspbaking soda
120g½ cup coconut oil or plant-based butter
120g½ cup maple syrup or date molasses
1tspalmond essence
20g¼ cup flaked almonds
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 180℃.
In a small bowl, mix the flax seeds with 6 tbsp of water and let sit for a few minutes to form a flax egg.
In a large bowl, combine the oats, ground almonds, flour, baking powder, and baking soda.
Melt the coconut oil or plant-based butter and mix it into the dry ingredients along with the maple syrup (or date molasses), almond essence, and flax egg. Stir until well combined.
Mix in 15g (3 tbsp) of the flaked almonds, reserving the remaining 5g (1 tbsp) for topping.
Line a muffin tray with 12 muffin cases and evenly divide the batter between them. Sprinkle the tops with the remaining flaked almonds.
Bake for 25 minutes until golden.
Remove from the oven, let cool, and serve with fresh raspberries or coconut yogurt.
We were inspired to try some traditional Irish recipes for St Patrick’s Day and came across this fermented oats recipe we knew we had to try! Long before potatoes arrived in Ireland, oats and barley were the backbone of our diet. Sowans (Súghan in Irish) was a staple in ancient Ireland—a naturally fermented oat drink or porridge that was both gut-friendly and deeply nourishing. Traditionally, it was made by soaking oat husks in water for days, then straining and fermenting the liquid into a tangy, probiotic-rich drink.We’ve made a modern take that keeps the essence of fermentation alive but makes it easy enough for a busy kitchen. Think of it as an Irish-inspired overnight oats—creamy, slightly tangy, and packed with gut-loving goodness. We’ve paired it with stewed apples and rhubarb, a nod to classic Irish flavours, for a beautifully balanced bowl.
Takes 1 dayday
Serves 3
Ingredients
For the Fermented Overnight Oats (Sowans/Soghans)
200g1 cup oat groats (or 200g / 1 cup steel-cut oats for a softer texture)
500ml2 cups oat milk (unsweetened)
1tablespoonplant-based yogurtwith live cultures or 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
1tablespoonmaple syrupoptional, for slight sweetness
½teaspoonsea salt
For the Stewed Apples & Rhubarb
1applepeeled and diced
120g¾ cup rhubarb, chopped
1tablespoonmaple syrup or date syrup
½teaspooncinnamon
60ml¼ cup water
Toppings (Optional)
Chopped toasted hazelnuts or walnuts
A drizzle of oat cream or coconut yogurt
A pinch of nutmeg or cardamom
Instructions
Step 1: Ferment the Oats (Traditional Sowans/Soghans Method)
Prepare the oats: Rinse 200g (1 cup) oat groats or steel-cut oats well. Place them in a large ceramic bowl or glass jar. Pour in 500ml (2 cups) oat milk and stir in 1 tablespoon plant-based yogurt (or 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar) and ½ teaspoon sea salt.
Ferment overnight: Cover with a clean cloth and leave at room temperature (18–22°C / 64–72°F) for at least 8–12 hours, or up to 24 hours for a stronger tangy flavour. The mixture will thicken slightly and develop a mild sourdough-like taste. Stir before serving.
Step 2: Make the Stewed Apples & Rhubarb (Modern Irish Twist)
Combine ingredients: In a small pot, combine 1 peeled and diced apple, 120g (¾ cup) chopped rhubarb, 1 tablespoon maple syrup or date syrup, ½ teaspoon cinnamon, and 60ml (¼ cup) water.
Simmer until soft: Cook over low heat for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is soft and jammy.
Cool slightly: Remove from heat and allow to cool before serving.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
Serve the oats: Spoon the fermented overnight oats (Sowans/Soghans) into a serving bowl or jar.
Top with fruit: Add the stewed apples and rhubarb on top.
Add crunch: Sprinkle with toasted hazelnuts or walnuts if desired.
Drizzle with cream: Pour over oat cream or coconut yogurt for extra creaminess.
Fermenting mustard enhances its flavour complexity, improves digestibility, and adds natural probiotics that support gut health and immunity. This mustard is super easy to make and has a depth of flavour you won’t find in store-bought varieties!
Takes 6 daysdays20 minutesminutes
Serves 20
Ingredients
200gyellow mustard seeds
50gbrown mustard seeds
1fresh red chilior ½ tsp dried chili flakes, adjust to taste (approx. 15-20g)
¼garlic bulbapprox. 15g
½small limeapprox. 25g
500mlfiltered waterfor the brine
2tsp10g sea salt (non-iodized)
1tbspmaple syrup or honeyoptional, for balance
50mlreserved fermented brinefor adjusting consistency after blending
4tbspapple cider vinegaroptional, for extra tang after fermentation
Instructions
Prepare the Brine & Ferment the Mustard Seeds
Dissolve 10g sea salt into 500ml filtered water to create a 2% brine solution.
Place the yellow and brown mustard seeds in a sterilized jar.
Add the chopped chili, ½ lime and minced garlic (if using) on top of the mustard seeds.
Pour the brine over the mustard seeds, chillies, lime and garlic, ensuring they are all fully submerged.
Weigh the seeds down with a clean glass to keep them submerged.
Cover loosely with a lid or cloth and let it ferment at room temperature (18-22°C) for 5-7 days.
Check daily for bubbles and a tangy aroma.
Blend & Adjust
Drain the fermented mustard seeds, reserving the brine.
Blend the seeds with 2 tbsp of reserved brine and add more until you reach your desired texture. Blend for longer if you want a smooth homogenous mustard or for less time if you want a chunky wholegrain mustard.
Stir in maple syrup and apple cider vinegar for balance and ensure to season to taste adding more salt or vinegar till you reach your desired taste.
Store & Age for Flavor Development
Transfer the mustard to a clean, sterilized jar.
Store in the fridge, where it will continue to develop flavor over time.
For best taste, let it mature for 1-2 weeks before using.
Notes
Why Ferment Mustard?
✅ Enhanced Flavor Complexity
Fermentation mellows bitterness and creates a deeper, umami-rich mustard with tangy, slightly funky notes.
Natural lactic acid bacteria (LAB) create a subtle sourness that complements the mustard’s heat.
✅ Improved Digestibility
Soaking and fermenting mustard seeds can reduce antinutrients, making the nutrients more bioavailable.
It can also reduce mustard’s naturally strong heat, making it smoother.
✅ Probiotic Benefits
If fermented with lactic acid bacteria (like those from sauerkraut or whey), it can contain gut-friendly probiotics.
✅ Natural Preservation
Fermentation naturally acidifies the mustard, helping it last longer without relying solely on vinegar.
This One-Tray Caramelised Veg Pasta Bake is the ultimate fuss-free, flavour-packed dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With just 10 minutes of prep, everything comes together in a single tray—meaning minimal washing up and maximum taste. Roasting the vegetables first brings out their natural sweetness, adding deep, rich flavours to the sauce, while the pasta soaks up all the delicious juices as it bakes.
Takes 50 minutesminutes
Serves 4
Ingredients
For the Roasted Vegetables:
2red onionspeeled and sliced
1head of garlicwhole
1red peppersliced
100gcherry tomatoes½ cup
2tablespoonsolive oil30ml / ⅛ cup
1tablespoonbalsamic vinegar15ml / 1 tbsp
2tablespoonsmaple syrup30ml / ⅛ cup
1large pinch salt
For the Pasta Bake:
2tablespoonsThe Happy Pear sundried tomato pesto30g / ⅛ cup
300gdried pasta of choiceabout 3 cups
500mlvegetable stock2 cups
300mlplant milkwe used oat milk (1¼ cups)
400gtin chopped tomatoesabout 1¾ cups
20gfresh parsleychopped (¼ cup)
A pinch of chilli flakesoptional
Instructions
Prepare the veg: Peel and finely slice the red onions into thin slices. Cut the top off the garlic head so that its insides are exposed, and slice the pepper into long thin strips. Finely dice the fresh parsley.
Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 200°C (392°F).
Roast the vegetables: On a large baking tray, add the sliced red onions, whole head of garlic, sliced red pepper, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle over the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and maple syrup. Sprinkle with a large pinch of salt and toss to coat. Roast in the oven for 20–25 minutes until the vegetables are caramelised and tender.
Prepare the garlic: Remove the baking tray from the oven. Carefully squeeze the roasted garlic cloves out of their skins and discard the husk. Mash the softened garlic with a fork and stir it into the roasted vegetables.
Add the pasta and liquids: To the same tray, add the dried pasta, vegetable stock, plant milk, chopped tomatoes, and sundried tomato pesto. Stir everything together well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated in the liquid. Cover with tin foil or aluminium foil.
Bake the pasta: Return the tray to the oven and bake for a further 25 minutes, stirring once halfway through. Bake until the pasta is soft and tender, and the sauce has thickened.
Final touches: Remove from the oven and stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle with a pinch of chilli flakes if desired.
Serve: Spoon onto plates and enjoy warm, optionally with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
This Pistachio Date Bark is a simple yet indulgent treat made with wholesome ingredients. A chewy date layer is topped with creamy homemade pistachio butter, rich dark chocolate, and crunchy pistachios, finished with vibrant goji berries for extra flavour and nutrition. Perfect as a healthier snack or dessert, it’s easily customisable with different toppings!
Takes 1 hourhour15 minutesminutes
Serves 12
Ingredients
300gpitted datesapprox. 2 cups, packed
200gshelled pistachiosapprox. 1½ cups, plus extra for topping
1tbspcoconut oil
250gdark chocolateapprox. 1½ cups, chopped
2tbspgoji berriesfor decoration
Instructions
Make the Pistachio Butter
Blend 200g pistachios with 1 tbsp coconut oil in a food processor until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Prepare the Date Layer
Line a baking tray with parchment paper.
Blend the pitted dates in a food processor until they form a sticky paste. (If needed, add 1 tbsp warm water to help blend.)
Press the date paste evenly onto the lined tray, creating a thin, even layer.
Spread the Pistachio Butter
Evenly spread the homemade pistachio butter over the date layer.
Melt the Chocolate
Break the dark chocolate into small pieces and melt using:
A double boiler (bain-marie)
Or in the microwave, stirring every 20 seconds to prevent burning.
Once melted, pour over the pistachio butter layer and spread evenly with a spatula.
Decorate & Set
Sprinkle extra chopped pistachios and goji berries over the melted chocolate.
Place the tray in the fridge for at least 1 hour, or until the chocolate is fully set.
Serve & Enjoy
Once set, break or cut into pieces. Enjoy as a nutritious snack or dessert!
This is a super refreshing and soothing juice that can help to support digestion and nourish your gut. This blend combines celery and fennel which can help to support healthy digestion and a touch of apple and lemon for natural sweetness and alkalizing benefits. It’s the perfect way to give your gut some love! We used our Namawell J2 juicer for this recipe – it’s the best juicer we’ve used and we absolutely love it! Use code HAPPYPEAR10 for 10% off!
Takes 10 minutesminutes
Serves 4
Ingredients
1head of celery
3apples
2lemonspeeled
1small fennel bulb
1handful mint leaves
Instructions
Prepare your ingredients – Wash the celery, apples, fennel and mint (if using) well. Peel the lemons to avoid bitterness.
Juice the ingredients – Feed the celery, apples, fennel, mint and lemons through your juicer.
Mix & taste – Stir the juice well to blend the flavors. Adjust sweetness by adding an extra apple if needed.
Serve & enjoy – Drink fresh or store in a sealed bottle in the fridge for up to 48 hours. Shake well before drinking.
This is a vibrant, immune-boosting juice packed with anti-inflammatory benefits. It’s a powerhouse for skin health and overall vitality. Enjoy it as a refreshing drink or get creative—turn it into daily immunity shots, ice cubes for teas, or a zingy morning boost! We used our Namawell J2 juicer for this recipe – it’s the best juicer we’ve used and we absolutely love it! Use code HAPPYPEAR10 for 10% off!
Takes 8 minutesminutes
Serves 6
Ingredients
6large carrots
4orangespeeled
2-inchpiece fresh turmeric
2-inchpiece fresh ginger
2lemonspeeled
Instructions
Prepare your ingredients – Wash the carrots well (no need to peel if organic). Peel the oranges and lemons to remove the bitter outer skin. No need to peel the turmeric and ginger if using a slow juicer.
Juice the ingredients – Feed the carrots, oranges, turmeric, ginger, and lemons through your juicer one at a time, alternating between softer and harder ingredients to keep the juicer running smoothly.
Mix & taste – Stir the juice well to blend the flavors. If you’d like a stronger kick, add a little more ginger.
Serve & enjoy – Drink fresh over ice or store in a sealed bottle in the fridge for up to 48 hours. Shake well before drinking.
Get creative!
Daily Immunity Shots: Pour into small bottles or shot glasses and take 1-2 shots per day for an immune boost.
Tea Ice Cubes: Freeze the juice in ice cube trays and add to herbal teas for an extra punch of flavor and nutrients.
Golden Elixir: Mix with warm water and a pinch of black pepper (to enhance turmeric absorption) for a soothing anti-inflammatory drink.
Why ferment salsa? Fermentation enhances flavour, complexity, and acidity—just like in traditional hot sauces. This method naturally preserves the salsa while developing deep, tangy, and slightly spicy notes, along with gut-friendly probiotics.
Takes 6 daysdays15 minutesminutes
Serves 8
Ingredients
5medium ripe tomatoesdiced
1small red onionfinely chopped
3garlic clovesminced
1small red chillior more to taste, finely chopped
50gfresh corianderchopped
1ripe mangodiced (optional, for a sweet twist)
1tspground cuminoptional, for depth of flavour
1tbspsea saltnon-iodised, such as Himalayan or kosher salt
100mlwaterif needed
1tbspcumin seeds
Juice of ½ lemon or 1 limeoptional, for added brightness
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
Dice the tomatoes and mango into small chunks.
Peel and finely chop the red onion.
Finely dice the chilli and chop the coriander.
Mince the garlic, then combine all ingredients in a large bowl.
Salt & Pack the Jar
Weigh the total amount of ingredients and calculate 2% of their weight in salt. (For example, if the ingredients weigh 1kg, use 20g of salt.)
Mix well and let sit for 10 minutes to release natural juices.
Pack the salsa tightly into a clean 1-litre jar, pressing down with a spoon to remove air pockets.
If the mixture isn’t fully submerged in liquid, add a small amount of water.
Fermentation
Place a small weight (such as a lemon, clean stone, fermentation weight, or small jar) inside the jar to keep the salsa submerged.
Cover loosely with a fermentation lid or a cloth secured with a rubber band to allow gases to escape.
Leave at room temperature (18–22°C) for 5–7 days, tasting daily until the desired tanginess develops.
Storage & Serving
Once fermented to your liking, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Blend for a smooth texture or leave chunky.
Seal the jar with a proper lid and store in the fridge, where it will continue developing flavour and last for several months.
Serve with tacos, burritos, grilled vegetables, nachos, or as a probiotic-rich dip!
This is a deep, earthy, and slightly sweet juice and is a powerhouse for stamina and performance. Beets are famous for their ability to boost circulation and oxygen delivery, making this the perfect pre-workout drink or daily energy boost. We used our Namawell J2 juicer for this recipe – it’s the best juicer we’ve used and we absolutely love it! Use code HAPPYPEAR10 for 10% off!
Takes 10 minutesminutes
Serves 6
Ingredients
3medium beets
4large carrots
3apples
2lemonspeeled
A handful of fresh mint
Instructions
Prepare your ingredients – Wash the beets, carrots, and apples thoroughly. Peel the lemons to remove any bitterness. No need to peel the beets and carrots if using a slow juicer.
Juice the ingredients – Feed the beets, carrots, apples, and lemons through the juicer, alternating between soft and hard ingredients for smooth extraction. Add the mint leaves last for a refreshing twist.
Mix & taste – Stir the juice well to blend the flavors. If you’d like a slightly sweeter juice, add an extra apple.
Serve & enjoy – Drink fresh over ice or store in a sealed bottle in the fridge for up to 48 hours. Shake well before drinking.
These three refreshing, hydrating juices are packed with natural electrolytes, essential minerals, and vibrant flavours to keep you feeling energized. Using real fruits, vegetables, and coconut water, they offer a delicious and wholesome alternative to artificial sports drinks. We used our Namawell J2 juicer for this recipe – it’s the best juicer we’ve used and we absolutely love it! Use code HAPPYPEAR10 for 10% off!
Takes 20 minutesminutes
Serves 6
Ingredients
Berry Lime (Red)
1cucumber
2celery
2apples
100gfresh or frozen raspberries
50gfresh blueberries
1/2limejuiced
1/4cupcoconut water
Pinchof flaky sea salt
Blue Electrolyte Boost (Blue/Green – with spirulina)
1cucumber
2celery
2apples
100gfresh blueberries
½lime
1/4cupcoconut water
1/2tspblue spirulina
Pinchof flaky sea salt
Citrus Zing (Yellow)
1cucumber
2celery
2apples
1lemonjuiced
2carrots
2orangejuiced
10gfresh turmeric
1/4cupcoconut water
Pinchof flaky sea salt
Instructions
For the Berry Lime Juice:
Juice the cucumber, celery, apples, lime blueberries and raspberries together.
Stir in the coconut water, and a pinch of sea salt.
Serve chilled and enjoy immediately for a fresh, hydrating boost.
For the Electrolyte Boost (Blue/Green – with spirulina)
Juice the cucumber, celery, apples, lime and blueberries together.
Stir in the blue spirulina, coconut water, and sea salt until well combined.
Pour into a glass and drink immediately for a natural, energizing boost.
For the Citrus Zing (Yellow)
Juice the cucumber, celery, apples, carrots, and turmeric together.
Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon and orange juice, coconut water, and sea salt.
Mix well, serve over ice, and enjoy a revitalizing citrus punch.
A powerhouse of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, this vibrant green juice can help to fuel your body, support digestion, and give you a natural energy boost. Leafy greens are loaded with chlorophyll, which helps oxygenate the blood, promote detoxification, and nourish your gut. This juice is refreshing, slightly tart, and packed with essential nutrients to help you feel your best! We used our Namawell J2 juicer for this recipe – it’s the best juicer we’ve used and we absolutely love it! Use code HAPPYPEAR10 for 10% off!
Takes 10 minutesminutes
Serves 6
Ingredients
2large handfuls spinach
2large handfuls kale
1small handful fresh parsley
2green apples
1cucumber
2limespeeled
Instructions
Prepare your ingredients – Wash the spinach, kale, parsley, cucumber, and apples thoroughly. Peel the limes to remove any bitterness from the rind.
Juice the ingredients – Feed the spinach, kale, parsley, apples, cucumber, and limes through your juicer one at a time, alternating between leafy greens and juicier ingredients (like apples and cucumber) to keep the juicer running smoothly.
Mix & taste – Stir the juice well to combine the flavors evenly. If you prefer a slightly sweeter taste, add an extra apple.
Serve & enjoy – Pour into a glass over ice and enjoy immediately for the freshest taste and maximum nutrient absorption. Store any leftovers in a sealed bottle in the fridge for up to 48 hours. Shake well before drinking.
Notes
This juice is packed with micronutrients to support gut health, digestion, and sustained energy—making it a perfect addition to your daily routine!
A refreshing, light, and hydrating juice packed with electrolytes to keep you energized and alkaline! This juice is loaded with minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants to support hydration, digestion, and recovery. It’s perfect for pre- or post-workout, a morning boost, or simply as a refreshing drink to keep you feeling vibrant. We used our Namawell J2 juicer for this recipe – it’s the best juicer we’ve used and we absolutely love it! Use code HAPPYPEAR10 for 10% off!
Takes 10 minutesminutes
Serves 6
Ingredients
2cucumbers
4stalks celery
2lemonspeeled
2green apples
2-inchpiece of fresh ginger
Optional: 1 litre coconut water
Instructions
Prepare your ingredients – Wash the cucumbers, celery, and apples thoroughly. Peel the lemons to avoid bitterness from the rind. No need to peel the ginger if using a slow juicer, but you can if preferred.
Juice the ingredients – Feed the cucumbers, celery, lemons, apples, and ginger through your juicer one at a time, allowing the machine to extract as much juice as possible. If using a slow juicer, alternate between softer (cucumbers, lemons) and harder (celery, apples) ingredients for smooth juicing.
Optional boost – Pour the fresh juice into a large jug or bottle. If you’d like an extra hydration boost, mix in coconut water and stir well.
Serve & enjoy – Pour into a glass over ice for an extra refreshing hit. Store any leftovers in a sealed bottle in the fridge for up to 48 hours. Shake well before drinking.
Notes
This juice is crisp, hydrating, and naturally energizing—perfect for glowing skin, hydration, and an immune boost.
A simple and delicious no-bake treat made with just five ingredients! These peanut butter chocolate oat cups are quick to prepare and require no food processor. For a nut-free version, use tahini instead of peanut butter, and for a gluten-free version, use gluten-free oats.
Takes 1 hourhour15 minutesminutes
Serves 8
Ingredients
Oat Base
100grolled oatsuse jumbo oats for texture (approx. 1 cup)
100gsmooth peanut butteror tahini for a nut-free version (approx. ½ cup)
2tbspmaple syrup
Peanut Butter Filling
100gsmooth peanut butterapprox. ½ cup
2tbspmaple syrup
Chocolate Topping
200gdark chocolateapprox. 1 cup
Decoration
Handful of roasted salted peanutsfor crunch and flavour
Pinchof saltoptional, for sprinkling on top
Instructions
Prepare the Base
Line a cupcake tin with 8 paper cases.
In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, peanut butter, and maple syrup. Stir well until all the oats are evenly coated.
Form the Base Layer
Divide the oat mixture evenly between the 8 cupcake cases, pressing it down firmly to create a compact base approximately 1cm (0.4 inches) thick.
Make the Peanut Butter Filling
In a small bowl, mix the peanut butter and maple syrup until smooth.
Layer the Filling
Spoon the peanut butter mixture evenly on top of the oat base in each cupcake case, ensuring it is spread evenly.
Melt the Chocolate
Break the dark chocolate into small pieces and melt it using a bain-marie (double boiler) or in the microwave, heating in short bursts and stirring between each interval.
Top with Chocolate
Pour the melted chocolate over each cup, ensuring a ½ cm (0.2 inches) thick chocolate layer.
Decorate & Set
Sprinkle with roasted salted peanuts and a pinch of salt (if using).
Place the tray in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or until fully set.
Serve & Enjoy
Once firm, remove from the fridge and enjoy these deliciously crunchy and creamy peanut butter chocolate oat cups!
This recipe requires just 5 minutes of prep, and the oven does the rest—all in one pan! Baking noodles might seem unusual, but this method works incredibly well, creating a dish packed with deep, savoury flavours. Inspired by a video that reached over 10 million views, this version is even tastier!
Takes 25 minutesminutes
Serves 4
Ingredients
Noodles & Vegetables
300gnoodles of choiceapprox. 3 cups cooked, we used udon
This vibrant, nutrient-packed juice is a powerhouse of antioxidants, vitamin C, and anti-inflammatory benefits. It combines fresh greens, zesty citrus, and warming spices to create a refreshing and revitalizing drink. The combination of turmeric and ginger provides natural immune support and aids digestion, while the citrus fruits bring a bright, tangy flavor packed with vitamins. Perfect for starting your morning on a refreshing note or as an afternoon pick-me-up!
Takes 10 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
50g2 cups baby spinach
10g1 tbsp fresh turmeric, peeled
15g1 tbsp fresh ginger (about ½ thumb-sized piece), peeled
2limespeeled (remove as much white pith as possible)
1grapefruitpeeled (remove as much white pith as possible)
½cucumberchopped (about ½ cup)
1green applecored and chopped (about ¾ cup)
5g2 tbsp fresh mint leaves (about a small handful)
120ml½ cup water (plus more if needed)
Ice cubesoptional, for a colder drink
Instructions
Prepare the ingredients:
Peel the limes and grapefruit, ensuring you remove as much of the white pith as possible to avoid bitterness.
If not using organic turmeric and ginger, peel them before use.
Chop the cucumber and apple into small pieces for easier blending.
Remove the mint leaves from their stalks.
Blend:
Add all ingredients to a high-speed blender.
Blend until smooth and well combined.
If the consistency is too thick, add more water or a few ice cubes to thin it out.
Serve:
Pour into glasses and enjoy immediately for the freshest flavor and maximum nutrients. Enjoy!
Notes
Add a pinch of black pepper to enhance the absorption of turmeric’s beneficial compounds.
For a milder flavor, swap grapefruit for an extra apple or orange.
If you prefer a lighter texture, strain the juice through a fine mesh sieve or nut milk bag.
These are phenomenal! The first time we made these, we were tired after a long day and were just craving something that was indulgent, yet based around real good quality food. You will need 2 large metal skewers to make this. If you don't have them you can just fry the beet and mushrooms off the skewer.
Takes 35 minutesminutes
Serves 4
Ingredients
1medium beetroot
250g(2 ½ cups) mushroomsoyster if you can get
1tbspsumac
1.5tbspsmoked paprika
1tspground black pepper
1/2tspsalt
3tbsptamari
2tbspmaple syrup
Tahini cream
300g(1 ¼ cups) Natural soy yoghurt
6tbsplight Tahini
Juice of 1/2 Lemon
Pinchof salt
Pinchgarlic powder
Coriander salad
1pomegranate
10cherry tomatoes
½cucumber
10g(⅓ cup) fresh coriander leaves
Pinchsalt
To serve
4flat breads
Pickled chillies
Instructions
Cut the beetroot in half, lengthwise and use a peeler to peel long strips the width of the beetroot, (be careful of your fingers!), get as many strips as you can. Rip the oyster mushrooms in half lengthwise.
In a large bowl add the beetroot strips and the mushrooms along with the sumac, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, tamari and maple syrup and mix well. Leave to marinate while you make the coriander salad and tahini cream.
For the coriander salad finely dice the cucumber, and coriander, shuck the pomegranate seeds and quarter the cherry tomatoes. Add to a bowl along with a pinch of salt and mix well. Taste and season to your taste
For the tahini cream, add the yoghurt, tahini, garlic powder, lemon juice and pinch of salt and mix well until it comes together. Taste and season to your liking by adding more salt or lemon. This is to be the base creamy flavour.
To cook the skewers.
Take the 2 metal skewers and carefully layer on the mushrooms and beetroot, we went 2 layers of mushroom then 1 layer of beetroot and continued with this pattern until we had filled the skewers.
Heat a large frying pan on high heat, once hot add 2 tbsp of oil and carefully add the skewers with the beet and mushrooms, cook on each side for 2-3 mins until they start to lightly char and beetroot starts to almost caramelise. Remove and using a sharp knife carve the mushrooms and beetroot off the skewers into bite sized pieces.
To plate up: Take a flatbread and add a good dollop of tahini cream, a generous amount of coriander salad, add some of the mushrooms and beet mix and lastly finish with some pickled chillies. Repeat with the remaining flat breads and enjoy!
The first time we made these we were super skeptical however these higher protein tofu bagels are soft, chewy, and so tasty! Instead of traditional flour-heavy dough, these bagels use tofu as a key ingredient, making them a fantastic source of protein and nutrients while still being deliciously satisfying. Use gluten free flour to make them gluten free
Takes 45 minutesminutes
Serves 4
Ingredients
340gsilken tofuapprox. 1½ cups, drained and patted dry
380gself raising flourapprox. 3 cups or gluten-free flour
½tspsalt
2tbsptamari/ soy sauce
½tspgarlic powderoptional, for flavor
ToppingsOptional
Sesame seeds or poppy seeds
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Mix the tofu with the dry ingredients
In a bowl mash the tofu, and sieve in the flour, salt, and garlic powder (if using).
Add the tamari/ soy sauce and knead until it comes together
Knead briefly for a few more minutes until a soft dough forms. If it's too sticky, add a little more flour.
Shape the bagels
Lightly dust your hands with flour and divide the dough into 6 equal pieces. Roll each piece into thin sausage shape approx 2cm or ¾ inch and link them together until they are bagel shaped or look like doughnuts.
Boil the bagels
Bring a large pot of water to a boil, and reduce to a simmer. Drop in the bagels one at a time and cook each one for approx 30 seconds, they should start to float. Using slotted spoon transfer the bagels to the lined baking tray
Bake
Generously sprinkle with sesame seeds or bagel seasoning.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, until firm and golden brown.
Cool & Enjoy
Let them cool on a wire rack before slicing. Enjoy with your favorite spreads like hummus, smashed avocado, or vegan cream cheese!
Make a fruity, probiotic soda at home with a combination of carrot juice and natural wild yeast fermentation! We use our favourite Nama J2 juicer to prepare fresh juice but you can use any store-bought juice and ferment it for a bubbly, gut-healthy soda sweetened naturally with fruit juice. Use any juice as the base and adjust fermentation time based on your environment.
Takes 6 daysdays30 minutesminutes
Serves 4
Ingredients
For the Juice
5carrots
2apples
1pear
1orange
1lime
For Fermentation
1apple
2oranges
1thumb sized piece fresh ginger
Instructions
Peel the orange and lime: Remove the outer skins of 1 orange and 1 lime.
Juice the base ingredients: Using your Nama juicer, juice 5 carrots, 2 apples, 1 pear, 1 peeled orange, and 1 peeled lime. You should yield approximately 600–700ml (2 ½ – 3 cups) of juice.
Prepare the fermentation jar: Roughly slice 10g of fresh ginger (leave out the ginger if you prefer) and quarter 1 apple and 2 oranges. Add these to a 1-litre (4¼ cups) jar.
Combine and ferment: Pour the freshly prepared juice into the jar over the prepared fruit and ginger. Close the lid tightly and leave the jar to ferment for 3–5 days.
Fermentation timing: At room temperature (20°C / 68°F), fermentation takes approximately 3 days. In cooler conditions, it may take up to 5 days.
Strain and bottle the soda: Once fermented, strain the juice and use a funnel to decant it into 1–2 swing-top lid bottles. Seal the lids securely.
Secondary fermentation: Allow the bottles to ferment for 3–7 days at room temperature, burping them daily to release carbon dioxide. Burp by opening the lid for 1–2 seconds.
Fermentation timing: Warmer environments speed up fermentation, while cooler environments slow it down. Monitor the carbonation and taste until it reaches your desired fizziness.
Refrigerate and enjoy: Once the soda is fizzy and to your liking, transfer the bottles to the refrigerator. The soda will keep for up to 1 week in the fridge.
One of our all time favourite ways to eat cabbage. The filling is so tasty and by grating the tofu it increases the surface area to carry more flavour resulting in a serious delicious interior. The dressing is a total flavour bomb – these are quick to make and so worth the effort. We fry them but you can bake them or cook them in the air fryer for a lower oil option.
Takes 25 minutesminutes
Serves 8
Ingredients
10large leaves of cabbageNapa cabbage works well
1bunch scallionsgreen onions
2clovesgarlic
1/2thumb-sized piece of ginger
1/2red chilli
150g7 oz mushrooms
200g7 oz firm tofu
1tbspsesame oilfor frying
Salt and pepperto taste
Dressing:
1tbspTamari
2tbspgochujang
1/2tbsprice vinegar
1tbspmaple syrup
2tbspsesame seeds
2tbspwater
Instructions
Prepare Ingredients:
Fill and boil the kettle.
Peel and grate the garlic and ginger.
Slice the scallions and mushrooms, and finely dice the red chilli, removing the seeds if desired.
Grate the tofu using a fine grater.
Remove the larger outer leaves from the cabbage.
Blanch Cabbage Leaves:
Fill a saucepan with just boiled water and a pinch of salt.
Blanch cabbage leaves for 3-4 minutes, then remove and rinse in cold water to stop them from cooking further.
Make Dressing:
Mix together the ingredients for the dressing in a bowl.
Prepare Filling:
Heat a wide-bottomed frying pan over high heat.
Add 1 tbsp sesame oil, tofu, mushrooms, and a pinch of salt. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring regularly.
Once tofu starts to turn golden, add grated ginger, garlic, scallions, chilli, and 3 tbsp of the dressing. Mix well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring regularly. Transfer this filling to a bowl and rinse the frying pan quickly.
Assemble Rolls:
Lay out 1 cabbage leaf and place approximately 2 tbsp of the tofu and mushroom filling in the centre.
Carefully roll up the cabbage, folding in the sides as you go to create a mini burrito-like shape. Repeat with remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
Cook Cabbage Rolls:
Heat the frying pan over high heat.
Add 1/2 tbsp sesame oil, then cook 4-5 cabbage rolls at a time for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn slightly golden.
Repeat with any remaining cabbage rolls.
Serve:
Serve cabbage rolls with the remaining dressing as a dipping sauce. Enjoy this delicious dish!
These raspberry love balls are a perfect bite-sized treat, packed with the tangy sweetness of raspberries, the creaminess of cashews, and the richness of dark chocolate. They are super easy to make and naturally sweetened with maple syrup—an absolute delight!
Add the cashews, desiccated coconut, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt to a food processor. Blend for 30–60 seconds until it starts to combine.
Add the frozen raspberries and blend for another 30–60 seconds until the mixture turns a vibrant pink and comes together into a sticky dough.
Shape & Freeze:
Scoop out small amounts of the mixture (approx. 1 tbsp per ball) and roll them into bite-sized balls. Place them on a baking tray lined with parchment paper and freeze for 30 minutes until firm.
Melt the Chocolate:
Break the dark chocolate into small pieces and melt it in a heatproof bowl over a bain-marie (water bath) or in the microwave in 20-second bursts, stirring in between.
Coat the Balls in Chocolate:
Once firm, take the raspberry balls from the freezer. Using a fork or a skewer, dip each ball into the melted chocolate, ensuring they are fully coated. Let excess chocolate drip off before placing them back onto the parchment paper.
Set & Enjoy!
Place the chocolate-coated raspberry love balls in the fridge for 10–15 minutes until the chocolate has set.
A ginger bug is a natural culture of beneficial bacteria made from fresh ginger root and sugar. The wild yeast present on the ginger and in the environment feeds on the sugar, fermenting it into probiotic-rich goodness. It takes about a week to create this concentrated fermented ginger base, which can then be used to make refreshing iced teas or other naturally fermented drinks. It’s easy to make and fantastic for gut health!
Takes 5 daysdays10 minutesminutes
Serves 10
Ingredients
50gabout ¼ cup fresh ginger, finely chopped or grated, plus more for feeding
50gabout ¼ cup brown sugar, plus more for feeding
500ml2 cups water
Instructions
Add the chopped ginger, sugar, and water to a sterilized 1L jar. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.
Cover loosely with a lid or cloth and label it with the date.
Leave it to ferment at room temperature and make sure to burp and feed it daily for 5 days.
Daily Feeding (For 5 Days)
5–10g (about 1 tsp) fresh ginger, finely chopped
1 tsp brown sugar
Each day, add the fresh ginger and sugar to the jar.
Stir well and reseal.
Burp the jar by quickly opening the lid to release built-up gas, then close it again.
After 5 Days – Ready to Use!
Your ginger bug should now be bubbly and smell yeasty, like beer or bread. It’s ready to use!
Use immediately to ferment homemade sodas.
Store in the fridge for up to a week.
To enjoy a quick probiotic drink, mix it with fizzy water, maple syrup, and lemon juice for a refreshing boost!
These Spicy Red Pepper Chickpeas are about to become your new go-to midweek dinner! Packed with protein, rich in fiber, and ready in just minutes, they’re perfect for any busy night. We used The Happy Pear Spicy Red Pepper Pesto to bring a nice spicy kick into the sauce however you can also substitute for harissa.
Takes 20 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
For the Spicy Chickpeas:
1tbspoil
1whole red onionfinely chopped
2clovesgarlicminced
1/2chilioptional – skip if you prefer a milder dish
1tin cooked chickpeasdrained and rinsed
1tspsmoked paprika
1tbsptomato puree
1tbsptamarior soy sauce
2tbspThe Happy Pear Spicy Red Pepper Pestoor 1 tbsp harissa
Pinchof salt
Pinchof ground black pepper
For the Tahini Cream:
5tbspplant-based yogurt
1tbsptahini
Juice of 1/2 lemon
Pinchof salt
Pinchof garlic powderor 1 crushed clove garlic
To Garnish:
1bunch fresh spring onionschopped
2tbsppickled red onionsor your preferred pickled red cabbage
Instructions
Cook the Chickpeas: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the red onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. If you like a bit of heat, toss in the chili as well.
Add the Flavours: Add the smoked paprika and cook for another minute, allowing the spices to release their fragrance. Now, stir in the tomato puree, tamari, and spicy red pepper pesto (or harissa), and cook for a minute until it’s all blended.
Simmer: Add your drained chickpeas to the pan, season with a pinch of salt and black pepper, and pour in a splash of water. Let it all simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the chickpeas to soak in the flavours.
Prepare the Tahini Cream: While the chickpeas are cooking, mix together the plant-based yogurt, tahini, lemon juice, salt, and garlic powder (or fresh garlic) in a small bowl. This will create a creamy and tangy balance to the spicy chickpeas.
Garnish: Slice the spring onions and prepare your pickled red onions or cabbage for garnish.
Serve: Once the chickpeas are done, serve them hot with a generous dollop of tahini cream on top. Add the fresh spring onions and pickled red onions for a zesty crunch. Pair it with some crusty sourdough bread to mop up all that delicious sauce, and drizzle with olive oil for extra richness.
This quick and easy dish is a fantastic way to boost your greens intake! Ready in just 5-10 minutes, it’s healthy, flavourful, and pairs perfectly with toast for a satisfying, nutritious meal. We used a variety of kale and herbs like parsley but swap out for greens of your choice – spinach, basil, cavolo nero all work, and switching up the herbs can transform the flavours to your taste!
Takes 10 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
For the Dish
100gabout 3 ½ cups kale or greens of choice
500ml2 cups boiling water
120g1 cup cashew nuts
2tbspnutritional yeast
½tspsalt
Juice of ½ lemon
1tspgarlic powder
2x 400gabout 3 ½ cups tins of butter beans or beans of choice
To Serve
1red chillisliced
Red sauerkraut
4slicesof toast
Instructions
Prepare the greens: Remove 100g (about 3 ½ cups) kale from its stems and add it to a bowl. If using spinach or other greens, simply place them in the bowl. Pour 500ml (2 cups) of boiling water over the greens and cover with a lid for 3 minutes to wilt.
Drain the beans: Rinse and drain 2 x 400g (about 3 ½ cups) tins of butter beans (or your chosen beans) thoroughly.
Blend the green sauce: Into a blender, add 120g (1 cup) cashew nuts, 2 tbsp nutritional yeast, ½ tsp salt, 1 tsp garlic powder, and the juice of ½ lemon. Add the soaked greens along with the water from the bowl. Blend until smooth.
Cook and thicken the sauce: Pour the green sauce into a saucepan and add the drained beans. Heat the mixture gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through and slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, black pepper, or lemon juice, as needed.
Serve and garnish: Serve the green beans and sauce with 1 sliced red chilli, a spoonful of red sauerkraut, and 4 slices of toast. Enjoy a quick, healthy, and delicious meal!
We love how versatile baked oats are and this makes for a delicious cosy, healthy breakfast with flavours reminiscent of the classic pastry. These Almond Croissant Baked Oats are easy to make, naturally sweetened, and topped with flaked almonds for a delicious finish. Perfect for a cozy morning or a quick dessert-style treat!
Takes 25 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
60g2/3 cup oats
40g1/3 cup ground almonds (almond flour)
1tspalmond extract
1/2cup120ml almond milk (or other plant-based milk)
2tbspmaple syrup
1.5tspbaking powder
2tbspplant-based yogurtadds creaminess and helps bind
Pinchsalt
For Topping
2tbspflaked almonds
1tspicing sugaroptional
Instructions
Preheat the oven: Preheat to 180°C (350°F) and lightly grease two ramekins or one medium-sized baking dish.
Mix dry ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the oats, ground almonds, and baking powder.
Prepare wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond milk, maple syrup, almond extract, and the plant-based yogurt until smooth.
Combine: Add the wet ingredients to the dry mixture and stir until fully incorporated.
Pour into dishes: Divide the mixture evenly into two ramekins or a single baking dish.
Decorate: Top with flaked almonds and sprinkle with icing sugar for a golden, slightly crispy finish.
Bake: Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden and set.
Serve: Enjoy warm for a dessert-like breakfast, optionally drizzled with more maple syrup or paired with a dollop of plant-based yogurt.
This week, we’re thrilled to welcome Joe Cross! An Australian entrepreneur, best-selling author, and filmmaker, Joe is best known for his groundbreaking documentary Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead, which has inspired millions around the globe to embrace healthier, plant-based lifestyles. Joe’s personal journey from battling obesity and autoimmune disease to vibrant health through the power of juicing is nothing short of remarkable.
Episode 180
In this episode, Joe shares his inspiring transformation story, discusses the benefits of juicing, and provides practical advice for anyone looking to improve their health. From overcoming chronic illness to becoming a global advocate for plant-based living, Joe’s energy and wisdom will leave you feeling empowered to make positive changes in your own life.
We also dive into the science behind juicing, explore the challenges of staying healthy in today’s fast-paced world, and the work he has done with Namawell, the cold press juicing company, that have revolutionised the juicing game for the better.
Whether you’re a juicing enthusiast or just starting your health journey, this episode is packed with valuable insights and motivation.
Tune in to learn how small, sustainable steps can lead to transformative results—and why Joe believes health is the ultimate form of wealth.
Dave & Steve
Lots of love,
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We’ve created a nutrient-dense powerhouse to help ward off colds and flu. Simply freeze it in cubes, then take one out, add boiling water and a touch of sweetener, and enjoy a soothing, immune-boosting tea! We developed this recipe with our friends at Namawell Juice Company, who make fantastic upright masticating juicers. Learn more about them here and use the code HAPPYPEAR10 for 10% off.
Takes 5 hourshours10 minutesminutes
Serves 10
Ingredients
6whole citrus fruitswe used a combination of oranges, blood orange, lime and lemon
1thumb sized piece of ginger
1thumb sized piece of fresh turmericor 1 tablespoon of ground turmeric
½tspblack pepper cornsor ground black pepper
1tbspcoconut oil
Instructions
Prepare your ingredients:
Peel the citrus fruits, ginger, and turmeric if using fresh.
Juice your ingredients:
Feed the citrus fruits, ginger, turmeric, black peppercorns, and coconut oil into your Namawell juicer.
Tip: If using ground turmeric and black pepper instead of fresh, do not put these through the juicer as they can stain the juicer. Instead, mix them into the juice after juicing.
The coconut oil helps to enhance nutrient absorption, especially for fat-soluble compounds like curcumin in turmeric. Black pepper contains piperine, which increases the bioavailability of curcumin, making the nutrients even more potent.
Freeze into cubes:
Pour the juice into an ice cube tray and freeze until solid.
Make your tea:
When you’re ready to enjoy, pop a cube into a mug, add boiling water, and stir in your preferred sweetener (honey, agave, or maple syrup).
Sip and feel amazing:
Enjoy your immunity-boosting tea and let its warming and nourishing benefits help keep colds and flus at bay!
Notes
Why Black Pepper and Coconut Oil Matter
Black Pepper: Its piperine enhances the absorption of curcumin in turmeric by up to 2,000%, making the tea more effective in supporting your immune system.
Coconut Oil: The healthy fats help your body absorb fat-soluble nutrients like curcumin and other antioxidants from the citrus fruits, making this drink as nourishing as it is delicious.
High in fibre, easy to make sugar free and packed full of wholefoods these are a healthier super tasty treat! Use almond butter for a peanut free version or tahini for a nut free version. Steve's kids adore these and they make a great easy treat that is healthier.
Takes 2 hourshours30 minutesminutes
Serves 30
Ingredients
150gpitted datesabout 1 cup
125gdark chocolateuse 70% cocoa solids or sugar-free for a refined sugar-free version
75gsmooth peanut butter/almond butterabout 1/3 cup, use almond butter for a peanut-free version
40gcoconut oilabout 2 tablespoons
3 – 5tbsp waterabout 3–5 tablespoons or 1/6–1/3 cup
A pinch of saltoptional, to taste
1/2tspvanilla extractabout 1/6 tablespoon
Instructions
Make the caramel:
Add the dates, peanut butter,vanilla extract, coconut oil, and water to a food processor and blend until super smooth and caramel-like, adding more water if needed to achieve a smooth caramel consistency.
This may take from 5 to 10 mins to get a super smooth texture.
If desired, add a pinch of salt to enhance the sweetness and blend until the mixture reaches a toffee-like colour.
Shape the caramel into small squares:
Line a small baking tray with parchment and spread and level out the caramel so it is approx 2cm high. You want it to be as smooth as you can.
Place in the freezer to set for 2-4 hours, or overnight.
Remove and slice into squares that are approx 1.5cm x 1.5cm. You may need to allow it to defrost slightly if you left them to set overnight.
Coat in chocolate:
Melt the chocolate and using a fork dip the caramel squares in the dark chocolate so they are all evenly coated.
Place back on the baking parchment and sprinkle with some sea salt.
Place back in the freezer or fridge for 10 mins until they set and enjoy!
This "Vitamin Sea Shot" is a nutrient powerhouse that brings together foraged wild greens and seaweed in a delicious green juice. Greens are one of the healthiest food and most of us find them hard to eat – sea beets are very bitter and astringent but by juicing them they are much easier to get the goodness. If you soak your seaweed in water to rehydrate it before juicing it helps to get a much smoother blend. This shot is a simple, seasonal way to get all the health benefits of wild greens in one delicious juice! We came up with this recipe with our friends from Namawell juice company who make amazing upright masticating juicers – learn more about them here and use the code: HAPPYPEAR10 for 10% off
Takes 15 minutesminutes
Serves 4
Ingredients
3large handfuls of wild greens of choicewe’ve used dandelion leaves, wild stinging nettles, pennywort and sea beet
1handful of seaweed of choiceresearch what edible seaweed is available in your area and be sure to check the water quality first. If you don’t have access to seaweed you can leave this part out
3apples
2carrots
1cucumber
Juice 1 lemon
1head of celery
1thumb sized piece of ginger
Instructions
Wash and soak your seaweed in water for 10 minutes to rehydrate it before juicing
Give your foraged greens a good wash and soak.
Add all ingredients into the hopper of your juicer and juice.
Think rich heart belly hug stew, that has deep undertones of red wine and dark chocolate. Served on top of mashed potatoes or a butterbean mash with some purple broccoli this is a dish to remember! It’s a perfect winter warmer and has an amazing variety of veg.
Takes 40 minutesminutes
Serves 4
Ingredients
1medium onions
2carrots
3clovegarlic
1tbspof vegetable oil
4tbsptomato puree
2tbsptamari/ soy sauce
300mlred wine
200goyster mushrooms
1x 400g tin black lentils
100gfine beans
1sprig Thyme/ rosemary
500mlveg stock
30gdark chocolate
1kgpotatoes
100mloat milk
3tbspvegetable oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prep the veg
Peel and finely chop the onion and garlic.
Slice the carrots into half moons that are approx 1/2cm in width
Tear the oyster mushrooms into smaller pieces.
Top and tail the fine beans
Chop the potatoes into even chunks for boiling (leave the skin on for a more nutritious mash).
Drain and rinse the lentils
Roughly chop the dark chocolate
Saute the base veg
Heat a large saucepan or casserole dish over medium heat with 1 tbsp of vegetable oil.
Add the chopped onion, mushrooms, fine beans and carrots. Sauté for 6–7 minutes until softened and starting to caramelize.
Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Boil the potatoes
Fill another saucepan with the prepared potatoes and cover with cold water. Add in 1 tbsp of salt and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and leave to cook for 15mins or until the potatoes are soft and well cooked
Build the Flavor:
Add the tomato purée, tamari and the red wine and stir well, letting it cook for 4-5 minutes to burn off the alcohol and develop a rich flavor.
Add Lentils and season:
Add in the drained black lentils along with the bay leaf, dark chocolate, a sprig or two of thyme/rosemary and the veg stock.
Simmer:
Turn the heat on high and bring to a boil and reduce to a medium heat and cook for 20 more minutes, with the lid off, stirring occasionally. At the end of 20 mins it should have reached a thick almost caramel like texture. Taste and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Mash:
Drain the potatoes and mash with 100 ml of oat milk, 2 tbsp of olive oil and a pinch of salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season to taste.
To Serve
Plate the Dish:
Spoon the creamy mashed potatoes onto each plate.
Ladle the rich winter stew over the potatoes.
Add a side of purple broccoli.
Garnish:
Garnish with a sprig of rosemary or a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.
Enjoy this warm, rich, and comforting winter stew!
With 20.3g protein per 100g – this is a high protein snack! Last year we were in Boston and found this delicious high protein peanut butter granola that we had to make our own version of! This is easy to make and so worth trying. You will get peanut butter powder in most health food stores or else it is widely available online.
Takes 40 minutesminutes
Serves 10
Ingredients
250g2.5 cups oat flakes (gluten-free if needed)
120g1 cup peanuts or nuts of choice (unsalted, chopped for texture)
70g1/2 cup dried peanut powder (e.g., PB2 or similar)
80ml1/3 cup creamy peanut butter (creamy, unsweetened)
60ml1/4 cup maple syrup (or agave syrup)
60ml1/4 cup coconut oil (melted)
1tspvanilla extract
1/4tspsaltadjust if peanuts are salted
40g1/4 cup dark chocolate chips or chunks (optional, dairy-free)
15g2 tbsp chia seeds
Instructions
Preheat the Oven and roughly chop peanuts:
Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roughly chop the peanuts.
Mix the Wet Ingredients:
Add to a sauce pan the coconut oil, peanut butter and maple syrup and heat on a medium heat for 2-3 mins until it becomes smooth and runny.
Take off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the oats, chopped peanuts, dried peanut powder, and chia seeds.
Mix It All Together:
Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly until all the oats and peanuts are evenly coated.
Bake the Granola:
Spread the mixture evenly on the prepared baking sheet, pressing it down slightly to form clusters.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through for even baking. For chunkier granola, avoid stirring too much.
Keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t burn.
Cool and Add Chocolate (Optional):
Remove the granola from the oven and let it cool completely on the tray. It will crisp up as it cools.
If using chocolate chips, sprinkle them over the granola while it’s still slightly warm so they stick but don’t fully melt.
Store:
Transfer the granola to an airtight container once fully cooled. It will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions:
Enjoy it as a topping for smoothie bowls or vegan yogurt.
Serve with plant-based milk for a high-protein breakfast.
In this captivating episode, we are joined by the incredible Dr. Andrew Jenkinson, a consultant bariatric surgeon, author, and leading expert on metabolism and appetite regulation. Dr. Jenkinson has spent over two decades helping individuals understand the science behind weight loss and why traditional diets often fail. His groundbreaking books, “Why We Eat (Too Much)” and “How To Eat (and Still Lose Weight),” challenge conventional wisdom and offer evidence-based solutions to long-term health and weight management.
Episode 179
We delve into the science of hunger, hormones, and health. This episode is packed with invaluable insights that will change how you think about food, dieting, and your body’s metabolism.
So if you’ve ever struggled with yo-yo dieting, cravings, or confusion about what truly constitutes a healthy diet, this episode is for you. Dr. Jenkinson shares actionable advice and uncovers the myths surrounding weight loss, making it easier to take control of your health.
And should you want more information and guidance on how you can maintain a healthy weight, our Happy Shape Challenge has just started! Check out the following link for more information and how to join the over 20,000 previous success stories: https://thehappypear.ie/courses/happy-shape-course/
Dave & Steve
Lots of love,
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Supports good gut health* *Chicory Inulin contributes to maintaining proper digestive function thanks to more frequent bowel movements. One soup serving provides 4g of chicory inulin, which is ideal as part of a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. The beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 12g. This means an additional 2 portions from this product or other foods containing corresponding amounts of chicory inulin or chicory root fibre. Check the ingredient lists in foods like bakery, beverages, sauces, and cereals for more information.
Supports good gut health* *Chicory Inulin contributes to maintaining proper digestive function thanks to more frequent bowel movements. One soup serving provides 4g of chicory inulin, which is ideal as part of a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. The beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 12g. This means an additional 2 portions from this product or other foods containing corresponding amounts of chicory inulin or chicory root fibre. Check the ingredient lists in foods like bakery, beverages, sauces, and cereals for more information.
Supports good gut health* *Chicory Inulin contributes to maintaining proper digestive function thanks to more frequent bowel movements. One soup serving provides 4g of chicory inulin, which is ideal as part of a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. The beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 12g. This means an additional 2 portions from this product or other foods containing corresponding amounts of chicory inulin or chicory root fibre. Check the ingredient lists in foods like bakery, beverages, sauces, and cereals for more information.
Supports good gut health* *Chicory inulin contributes to maintaining proper digestive function thanks to more frequent bowel movements. One soup serving provides 4g of chicory inulin, which is ideal as part of a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. The beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 12g. This means an additional 2 portions from this product or other foods containing corresponding amounts of chicory inulin or chicory root fibre. Check the ingredient lists in foods like bakery, beverages, sauces and cereals for more information.
For allergens, see ingredients highlighted. Contains Celery, Soya.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
Typical
per 100g
Energy
185kJ
58kcal
Fat
3.4g
of which saturates
3.0g
Carbohydrates
5.3g
of which sugars
1.4g
Fibre
1.1g
Protein
1.0g
Salt
0.55g
Sodium
0.55g
Supports good gut health* *Chicory Inulin contributes to maintaining proper digestive function thanks to more frequent bowel movements. One soup serving provides 4g of chicory inulin, which is ideal as part of a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. The beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 12g. This means an additional 2 portions from this product or other foods containing corresponding amounts of chicory inulin or chicory root fibre. Check the ingredient lists in foods like bakery, beverages, sauces and cereals for more information.
For allergens, see ingredients highlighted. Contains Celery.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
Typical
per 100g
Energy
185kJ
44kcal
Fat
1.6g
of which saturates
1.4g
Carbohydrates
5.9g
of which sugars
2.6g
Fibre
1.5g
Protein
0.8g
Salt
0.4g
Sodium
0.4g
Supports good gut health* *Chicory inulin contributes to maintaining proper digestive function thanks to more frequent bowel movements. One soup serving provides 4g of chicory inulin, which is ideal as part of a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. The beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 12g. This means an additional 2 portions from this product or other foods containing corresponding amounts of chicory inulin or chicory root fibre. Check the ingredient lists in foods like bakery, beverages, sauces and cereals for more information.
For allergens, see ingredients highlighted. Contains Celery, Mustard, Soya.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
Typical
per 100g
Energy
227kJ
54kcal
Fat
1.4g
of which saturates
0.1g
Carbohydrates
6.5g
of which sugars
2.2g
Fibre
3.2g
Protein
2.3g
Salt
0.53g
Sodium
0.53g
High Protein Tofu Gnocchi
We’ve always found traditional gnocchi chewy and stodgy so we never really liked it, here we create a lighter, protein-packed version made with tofu and chickpea flour and fry it to get a crispy exterior and served with a spicy tomato sauce, this dish contains approximately 39g of protein per serving.
Takes 30 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
For the Gnocchi:
250gfirm tofuabout 1 cup, drained but not pressed
150gchickpea flourabout 1 cup, plus 50g or about ⅓ cup for dusting
1tspgarlic powderor 1 clove of garlic, peeled and finely diced
1tbspolive oilabout 15 ml or 1 tablespoon
Pinchof salt
For the Tomato Sauce:
3tbspolive oilabout 45 ml or 3 tablespoons
3clovesof garlicminced
1red chillifinely chopped
400gtin of chopped tomatoesabout 1 ½ cups
1tbspmaple syrupabout 15 ml or 1 tablespoon
1tspsalt
Black pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the tofu dough:
Drain 250g firm tofu and blend until it forms a smooth paste. Transfer to a mixing bowl and add 150g chickpea flour, 1 tsp garlic powder (or 1 clove of garlic, finely diced), 1 tbsp olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Mix thoroughly and knead gently on a lightly floured surface until it forms a solid dough ball. Add extra flour as needed to prevent sticking.
Shape the gnocchi:
Divide the dough into 8 balls. Roll each ball into a thin rope approximately 2.5cm in diameter. Cut the ropes into small bite-sized pieces.
Boil the gnocchi:
Fill a saucepan with freshly boiled water and add 1 tbsp of salt. Bring the water to a boil and add the gnocchi. Cook until the gnocchi floats to the surface (approximately 1 minute). Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Fry the gnocchi:
Heat a frying pan over high heat and add 1 tbsp (15ml) olive oil. Once hot, add the gnocchi and fry for 8-10 minutes, turning frequently to ensure they cook evenly. Continue until the gnocchi are lightly golden on all sides with a slightly crispy exterior
Make the tomato sauce:
Peel and dice 3 cloves of garlic and finely dice 1 red chilli. Heat a saucepan over medium heat and add 3 tbsp (45ml) olive oil. Once hot, sauté the garlic and chilli for 2 minutes until the garlic turns golden. Add 1 x 400g tin of chopped tomatoes, 1 tbsp (15ml) maple syrup, 1 tsp salt, and a pinch of black pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, then remove from the heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve:
Divide the tomato sauce between two bowls. Top with the crispy gnocchi and garnish with fresh basil or your preferred green. Enjoy!
One of our favourite recipes from our cookbook The Happy Pear 20! This recipe is based on an Ikarian longevity stew that one of the longest living families in the world seemingly ate every day for lunch. This is so nourishing and tasty, it’s oil-free, high in beans, lentils and lots of cruciferous veg (broccoli & kale). A great dish to nurture your immune system. We love to serve this with some delicious sourdough bread. This dish can also be great cooked in a slow cooker over the course of a day as the flavours meld together and it can taste even better!
Takes 40 minutesminutes
Serves 6
Ingredients
2onions
3clovesof garlic
2carrots150g,
2leeks400g,
1x 400g tin black beans
1x 400g tin cooked chickpeas
1x 400g tin cooked lentils
150gdry wholemeal pastasuch as fusilli
200gbroccoli
100gkale
1x 680g jar tomato passata or 2 x 400g tins chopped tomatoes
100gtomato paste
2tablespoonstamarior soy sauce
2.5litres vegetable stock
½teaspoonblack pepper
Optional: chilli flakes to taste
Salt to taste
Instructions
Prepare your vegetables: Peel and finely dice the onions and garlic. Slice the carrots and cut the leeks into thin rounds (approx 2 cm rounds). Cut the broccoli into small florets and finely chop the stalk making sure to use it as well. Separate the kale leaves from the stalk and finely chop and finely chop the stalk aswell. Drain and rinse the black beans, chickpeas and lentils.
Fry the onions: In a large pot over a high heat, add the diced onions. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring regularly. If anything begins to stick, add 2 tablespoons of water/vegetable stock to deglaze the pot.
Cook & sweat the veg: Add the leeks, carrots, broccoli stalks, kale stalks, and a generous pinch of salt. Cook for 2 minutes stirring regularly. Add 50 ml of vegetable stock, cover with a lid, reduce the heat to low to medium and let the vegetables sweat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add the remaining ingredients: To the pot, add the black beans, chickpeas, lentils, tomato passata, tomato paste, tamari, the rest of the vegetable stock, pasta, and kale leaves. Stir to combine. With the lid on, bring the stew to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Stir occasionally.
Taste & Season: After simmering, taste the stew and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper. If you prefer a spicier stew, add chilli flakes to your liking.
Serve the stew warm with fresh bread on the side for a hearty and nourishing meal.
Notes
This stew can also be cooked in a slow cooker. Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for several hours until the flavours are well combined and the vegetables are tender.
Just three ingredients and super easy to make, quinoa is gluten free and a high protein grain, here we toast the quinoa to give it a nutty crispy taste and then top with some goji berries and pistachios for a pop of colour!
Takes 50 minutesminutes
Serves 12
Ingredients
200gChocolate1 ¼ cups, chopped or chips
200gAlmond butter/peanut butter¾ cup
100gQuinoauncooked (½ cup)
Decoration
Handful Goji berries
Handful Shelled pistachio
Instructions
Toast the quinoa: Heat a saucepan over low-medium heat, add the quinoa, and stir until it starts popping, this should take approx 5 mins. Stir for another minute, then remove from heat.
Melt the chocolate: Melt the chocolate, in a bain marie/ water boiler or in the microwave
Add the peanut butter: Stir in the almond butter or peanut butter to the chocolate.
Combine and prepare: Mix everything well, then line a baking tray with parchment paper. We used a small tray that was 16cm x 12cm x 5cm high
Set the mixture: Pour the mixture onto the parchment-lined container and sprinkle over some goji berries and shelled pistachios, freeze for 30 mins or leave to set in the fridge for 2 hours
Slice and enjoy: Cut the bars into squares, we got 12 small squares and enjoy!
This is a wonderful, immunity-boosting winter drink that’s as functional as it is delicious. Packed with fresh, vibrant ingredients like apple, celery, and kale, this fizzy soda is the perfect way to give your body some love during a season when we’re all a little more susceptible to colds and flu. With warming ginger and soothing mint, it also helps cleanse and reset your system after a bit of holiday indulgence. Light, refreshing, and full of flu-busting goodness, this drink will have you feeling recharged and ready to take on the colder months!
Takes 6 daysdays20 minutesminutes
Serves 4
Ingredients
5medium applesantioxidants & vitamin C
2small heads of fennel
1thumb-sized piece of fresh gingeranti-inflammatory & soothing for colds
2lemonsvitamin C & alkalizing
½cucumberhydration & cooling
1handful of kalevitamin C & immune support
1head of pak choi
5-6fresh mint leavessoothing & refreshing
2tbspcoconut sugar or brown sugarfor fermentation fuel
Instructions
Prepare the Juice:
Juice the kale, fennel, pak choi, cucumber, 3 apples, some of the ginger.
Prep the veg for Fermentation:
Quarter the remaining 2 apples, roughly slice the remaining ginger, quarter the lemons and add to a jar or jug that is approx 1-2L in volume. Pour in the juice along with the mint leaves and the 2 tbsp of coconut sugar. There is wild yeast occurring on the skin of the lemons, apples, ginger and mint leaves which convert the sugars to natural carbonation and probiotic bacteria. Cover with a lid or cloth.
Leave to ferment
Leave to ferment at room temperature in indirect sunlight for 2-3 days. If the jar is sealed you will have to burp it regularly which simply means opening the lid and closing it to release excess build up of carbonation.
Bottle the Juice for 2nd Fermentation:
Sieve the juice and pour into a sterilized glass bottle or jar with a tight-fitting lid. Leave about 1 inch of headspace for the gas to build up.
Ferment:
Store the bottle at room temperature for another 2-3 days. Check daily to "burp" (release gas) to avoid pressure buildup.
Chill and Serve:
Once fizzy and slightly tangy, refrigerate the drink to slow fermentation. Serve cold, garnished with a sprig of mint or a slice of cucumber.
Notes
How it supports immunity
Apple: Provides antioxidants to fight free radicals and boost overall health.
Fennel: Rich in minerals and helps maintain electrolyte balance.
Ginger: Fights inflammation and soothes colds and sore throats.
Lemon: High in vitamin C, helping to ward off colds and flu.
Mint: Eases digestion and adds a refreshing touch.
Kale: Packed with vitamin C and essential nutrients for immune health.
Cucumber: Hydrates the body and helps flush out toxins.
Tofu often gets a bad rap for being bland, but this recipe is here to change that perception! By using a clever cutting method inspired by hasselback potatoes, you create deep, flavourful pockets where the miso glaze seeps in, ensuring every bite is packed with umami goodness. This technique not only transforms the texture of the tofu but also makes it visually impressive and incredibly delicious. Paired with julienned carrots, kimchi, and a bed of rice or quinoa, it's a delicious meal that will make even tofu skeptics reconsider!
Takes 35 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
Miso Glaze
1tbspmiso
1tbspmaple syrup
1tbsprapeseed oil
Juice of 1 lemon
1tbspGochugaru or chilli flakes
1thumb gingergrated
1garlic clovegrated
Tofu & Trimmings
280gblock firm tofuapprox 1 ¼ cups chopped
2carrotjulienned (or veg of choice)
2tablespoonkimchi
400gapprox 2 cup cooked rice or quinoa
Instructions
Prepare the Tofu:
Place the block of tofu on a cutting board with a chopstick or similar object on either side.
Slice the tofu in vertical lines, stopping at the chopsticks to avoid cutting through.
Flip the tofu and repeat with horizontal slices to create the accordion effect.
Make the Miso Glaze:
In a small bowl, whisk together the miso, maple syrup, rapeseed oil, lemon juice, gochugaru, grated ginger, and garlic until smooth.
Glaze and Roast:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
Place the accordion tofu on a lined baking tray. Use a brush or spoon to coat the tofu thoroughly with the miso glaze, ensuring it seeps into the cuts.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, basting halfway through with any remaining glaze, until golden and slightly crisp.
Prepare the Vegetables and Base:
While the tofu bakes, julienne the carrots and prepare your kimchi and cooked rice or quinoa.
Assemble:
Serve the roasted accordion tofu on a bed of rice or quinoa.
Top with julienned carrots and a dollop of kimchi.
Optional Garnishes:
Add sliced green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of toasted sesame oil for extra flavor.
Creamy Linguine with Shredded Sprouts and Mushrooms
This is one of the best ways to use brussel sprouts which are often left over around the festive period! By shredding them they cook quickly and char which unlocks an extra layer of flavour! Here we make a cashew cream which goes perfectly with linguine and mushrooms
Takes 20 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
250glinguine pasta
250gmushrooms of choiceoyster, shiitake, chestnut suggested
1large red onionabout 200 g
2clovesof garlic
150gbrussel sprouts
2tbsptamari
For the Creamy Cashew Sauce:
100gcashew nuts
500mlplant milk of choice
Juice of ½ a lemon
1tspgarlic powder
2tbspnutritional yeast
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Garnish:
1fresh chilliseeds removed and sliced finely
Instructions
Prepare Cashews: Place the cashew nuts in a small pot and cover with boiling water. Simmer gently for 5-10 minutes, then drain and rinse.
Cook Pasta: Fill a large saucepan with boiling water and add 1 tbsp of salt. Add your pasta and cook according to package instructions.
Prepare Vegetables: Peel and finely slice the onion and garlic. Finely chop the mushrooms. Finely slice the brussel sprouts
Cook Onion and Mushrooms: Heat a large wide bottom pan over high heat. Add 1 tbsp of oil (or a few sprays of oil), followed by the onions, sliced brussel sprouts and ½ tsp of salt. Reduce the heat to medium and cook for 4-5 minutes stirring until the onions brown slightly. Stir occasionally. Add the chopped mushrooms and garlic and cook for another 4-5 minutes. Stir in the tamari, cook for an additional minute, then turn off the heat.
Prepare Cashew Sauce: While the mushrooms are cooking, make the cashew sauce. Add the drained and rinsed cashew nuts and the rest of the sauce ingredients to a blender or food processor. Blend at high speed until smooth. Add the creamy cashew sauce to the pan, then turn the heat to medium. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring continuously, to allow the sauce to thicken.
Combine Pasta, Sauce & Mushrooms: Drain the cooked pasta, reserving some pasta water. Mix the pasta into the sauce, making sure the pasta is well coated. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creamy texture. If it is too watery, cook for a few minutes to thicken, stirring constantly to avoid sticking. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Add the mushrooms, oninos and sprout mixture and mix through.
Garnish and Serve: Optionally, garnish with finely sliced fresh red chilli. Serve hot and enjoy your creamy, comforting pasta!
Half the brussel sprouts and peel and finely dice the garlic cloves.
Heat a non-stick pan on high heat, once hot add the butter and allow to melt.
Add the halved brussel sprouts along with a pinch of salt and leave to cook without moving for 3 mins. Turn the sprouts and they should be charred on one side. Flip them to char on the other side and add the garlic and fry for 2 mins and then add 4 tbsp of water and put a lid on to steam for 4 mins. Remove the lid and allow the water to evaporate and finish by adding the vinegar, maple syrup and flaked almond and leave to cook for a further 2 mins. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking by adding more salt or black pepper.
Korean Style Brussel Sprouts
Peel and finely dice the garlic and ginger. Finely dice the chilli removing the seeds if you prefer it less hot. Quarter the brussel sprouts.
Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large non-stick pan over medium-high heat.
Add the ginger, garlic, and chili, sautéing for about 30 seconds. Add the quartered Brussels sprouts and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they begin to char slightly.
Add 4 tbsp of water, cover with a lid, and steam for 3-5 minutes until the sprouts are just tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed.
Remove the lid and add the gochujang, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and maple syrup, stirring well to coat. Cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Drizzle with toasted sesame oil, then toss the sprouts gently to combine.
Serve garnished with toasted sesame seeds and sliced spring onions. Enjoy!
Sweet Cranberry and Chestnut Sprouts
Quarter the cleaned brussel sprouts. In a large non-stick pan, heat 2 tbsp of oil over a high heat. When hot, add the sprouts and 1⁄4 tsp salt. Reduce the heat to medium and cook for 2-3 minutes stirring occasionally. Add the veg stock and cover with a tight lid for 3-5 minutes to cook the sprouts a little faster. Add more water if they begin to stick.
Roughly chop the cooked chestnuts.
Remove the lid and add the chestnuts and cook for 2 minutes. Add the cranberry sauce, mixing well. Continue cooking to heat through for 3 minutes, add the remaining salt and serve immediately with your Christmas dinner.
This easy Pesto Wreath is your ultimate festive hack—low effort, high impact! Perfect as a finger food or party center-piece, it’s as impressive as it is simple to make. Using The Happy Pear’s Lovely Basil, Spicy Red Pepper, and Sundried Tomato Pestos, this flaky, golden wreath is full of bold flavours and is a real crowd-pleaser. Minimal prep, maximum wow factor!
Takes 25 minutesminutes
Serves 8
Ingredients
120gThe Happy Pear Lovely Basil Pestoapprox. ½ cup
120gThe Happy Pear Spicy Red Pepper Pestoapprox. ½ cup
120gThe Happy Pear Sundried Tomato Pestoapprox. ½ cup
320gsheet of chilled puff pastryapprox. 11 oz
3tbspoat milk
Instructions
Prepare the pastry:
Roll out the puff pastry sheet onto a clean surface. Cut the sheet in half lengthwise.
Add the pesto:
Spread your pesto of choice evenly over one half of the pastry. Use the Lovely Basil, Spicy Red Pepper, or Sundried Tomato Pesto—or mix and match for variety!
Shape the stars:
Place the other half of the pastry on top to sandwich the pesto. Using a star-shaped cookie cutter, cut out star shapes from the layered pastry.
Form the wreath:
On a fresh sheet of baking parchment, mark out a large circle (using a bowl or plate as a guide). Arrange the pastry stars along the circle, slightly overlapping, to form a wreath shape.
Brush and bake:
Lightly brush the pastry stars with oat milk to ensure a golden finish. Transfer the wreath (on the parchment) to a baking tray.
Bake:
Preheat your oven to 200°C (390°F) and bake the wreath for 15–20 minutes, or until golden and puffed.
Serve:
Let the wreath cool slightly before serving. This beautiful and flavorful centerpiece is perfect for sharing! Serve alongside extra pesto for dipping!
This is a wonderful, healthier festive treat where dates form the base, stuffed with peanut butter, and topped with melted chocolate. Shaped into a Christmas tree and decorated with pistachios and goji berries, this treat adds a festive pop to your holiday table!
Takes 30 minutesminutes
Serves 12
Ingredients
Base Ingredients:
250g1 ½ cups medjool dates or pitted dates (medjool preferred)
100g½ cup crunchy peanut butter or almond butter
150g1 cup chocolate
For Decoration:
Sea salt
Handful of pistachio nutsremoved from shell
30g¼ cup goji berries or freeze-dried raspberries
Instructions
Prepare the dates and shape the tree:
Remove the stones from 250g (8.8 oz) of medjool dates. Open them out and arrange them on a sheet of baking parchment in the shape of a Christmas tree. Fold the parchment around the dates, leaving extra room, and seal the edges. Use a rolling pin or mug to press down firmly, compacting the dates so they hold their shape when handled and so you have a firm solid base.
Add the peanut butter layer:
Spoon 100g (3.5 oz) of crunchy peanut butter over the flattened dates, spreading it evenly to cover the entire tree shape. Place the tree in the freezer to set for 20 minutes.
Melt and drizzle the chocolate:
Melt 150g (5.3 oz) of chocolate using a double boiler or microwave. Drizzle the melted chocolate over the peanut butter layer, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
Decorate the tree:
Dice a handful of pistachio nuts and sprinkle them over the chocolate layer. Add 30g (1 oz) of goji berries or freeze-dried raspberries for festive colour, and finish with a light sprinkle of sea salt.
Cut and serve:
Once set, remove the parchment and carefully cut the tree into portions. Serve immediately or store in the fridge until ready to enjoy.
Warm, decadent, and absolutely luxurious—these hot chocolate recipes are here to elevate your cosy drink game. Whether you're craving the richness of a ganache-like chocolate cream, the fragrant blend of pistachio milk with floral rose and cardamom, or the pure intensity of freshly roasted cacao, there's something here for every chocolate lover. These recipes celebrate bold flavours, wholesome ingredients, and a touch of indulgence—perfect for a chilly evening or when you need a little treat. We made the creamy pistachio milk using our Namawell M1 plant milk maker for the most delicious creamy drink! Use code HAPPYPEARM1 for 10% off!
Takes 1 hourhour
Serves 2
Ingredients
Chocolate Ganache Hot Chocolate
250goat milk1 cup
250goat cream or cream1 cup
50gchocolate1.75 oz or about 3.5 tbsp chopped
Zest of 1 orange
Pistachio Hot Chocolate
500mlpistachio milk2 cups
50gchocolate1.75 oz or about 3.5 tbsp chopped
3cardamom pods
3rose petalsoptional
The Purist – Roasted Cocoa Bean Ground to Get Cocoa Liquor
100graw cocoa beans or nibsabout 3/4 cup
30gcoconut sugar2.5 tbsp
500mloat milk2 cups
1vanilla pod
Instructions
Chocolate Cream Hot Chocolate
In a saucepan, combine 250ml oat milk and 250ml oat cream. Heat gently over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
While the milk mixture heats, chop 50g chocolate finely and zest 1 orange.
Add the chopped chocolate and orange zest to the warm milk mixture.
Whisk continuously until the chocolate is fully melted, and the mixture thickens to a ganache-like consistency.
Pour into your favourite mug and serve immediately. The rich, velvety texture makes this hot chocolate truly luxurious.
Pistachio Milk Hot Chocolate
Prepare 500ml pistachio milk using a plant milk maker or blend 100g of soaked pistachios with water and strain.
Heat the pistachio milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Add 3 cardamom pods (lightly crushed) and 3 rose petals, allowing the flavours to infuse as the milk warms.
Chop 50g chocolate finely and whisk it into the warm pistachio milk until fully melted and smooth.
Pour the hot chocolate into a mug and top with a dollop of whipped cream. Garnish with additional rose petals for a stunning and aromatic finish.
This fragrant and decadent drink is a favourite, offering a perfect balance of floral and nutty flavours.
Purest Cacao Bean Hot Chocolate
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Spread 100g raw cacao beans evenly on a baking tray and roast for 10-12 minutes until aromatic. Let them cool, then crack and peel them to remove the husks.
Grind the peeled cacao beans in a pestle and mortar or a high-powered blender until smooth, forming a paste (cocoa liquor).
In a saucepan, combine 500ml oat milk, 30g coconut sugar, a pinch of salt, and 1 vanilla pod (split lengthwise and seeds scraped into the mix). Heat over medium heat.
Add the cacao paste to the warm oat milk mixture. Whisk thoroughly until the cacao is fully dissolved, and the mixture is smooth.
Serve the hot chocolate in small cups to savour its rich, intense flavour. This recipe highlights the pure, unadulterated essence of roasted cacao beans.
No baking required, this is incredibly tasty and the textures in this are insane! A creamy, black forest tiramisu encased in a shell of hard cracking chocolate, this is one of our favourite cakes at the moment!
Takes 50 minutesminutes
Serves 6
Ingredients
Coffee Sponge Base
1x 250g pack of plant-based biscuitsplain biscuits or ladyfinger biscuits (about 2 ½ cups whole biscuits)
200mlstrong black coffee¾ cup
Hard Chocolate Layer
150gdark chocolate1 cup, chopped
2tbspvegetable oil
Cherry Layer
250gcherry jam or cranberry sauce¾ cup
Cream Layer
250mlvegan cream1 cup
150mlvegan cream cheese⅔ cup
3tbspkirsch or marsala cherry liquoroptional
1vanilla pod
3tbspicing sugar
Garnish
30gcacao powder¼ cup
Chocolate to garnish
Instructions
Chocolate layer
Get a 1 lb loaf baking tin and grease with a little oil and carefully line with baking parchment right up the sides. Ensure the paper is sticking to the baking tin
Chop the chocolate into small pieces and add to a bowl along with the vegetable oil and melt using a bain marie or microwave. Carefully pour in the melted chocolate to the lined loaf tin and tilt it around letting gravity do its work so that the chocolate coats all the sides evenly. Tip out any excess chocolate and set aside in the freezer for 10 mins or fridge for 15 mins.
Whip cream
Add the plant based cream to a large bowl along with the icing sugar, along with the cream cheese and scrape out the inside of the vanilla pod and add. Using an electric whisk whip the cream until you reach stiff peaks, this should take 4-5 mins. It should be super smooth with stiff peaks. You want to ensure it’s thick enough so that it will hold its shape.
Coffee soak
In a bowl add the coffee ready to dunk the biscuits.
Plating up
Carefully scoop out half of the cream layer and into the base of the chocolate shell and spread it out evenly, it should fill ⅓ of the chocolate case. On top of the cream layer, spoon over a layer of the cherries. Next dip the biscuits into the coffee soak and add 2 layers of soaked biscuits on top of the cherries (if you are using lady finger biscuits or similar thicker biscuits just put in a single layer). Repeat this process adding cream on top of the biscuits, followed by cherries, followed by soaked biscuits. You want to ensure that there are no gaps and that the loaf tin is full. Set aside in the freezer for 10 mins to set.
Ready to serve
Place a serving plan upside down on top of the tin (held up correctly!) Secure the plate and tin with both hands and lift and invert the tin onto the plate. Slowly lift off the tin and peel away the baking paper. Dust with some cocoa powder and some chocolate shavings. Use a hot knife to cut or else just crack with a large spoon!
This is a beautiful centre-piece show-stopper! We roast a whole cauliflower in a smoky umami maple glaze and pair it with creamy butter bean spread then drizzle over a cranberry sauce and a zingy green sauce, and you’ve got a dish that’s as delicious as it is stunning.
Parboil the cauliflower: Fill and boil the kettle, add the just boiled water to a large saucepan (approx 5L) with 1 tbsp of salt. Remove any damaged leaves from the cauliflower and clean the cauliflower. Add to the saucepan and cover with a lid and leave to steam for 10 mins. Carefully remove the cauliflower from the pot and drain and place on a baking tray
In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, smoked paprika, tamari, maple syrup, & salt. Rub this mixture all over the cauliflower and bake in the oven for 20 mins until it starts to char around the edges
Make the Cranberry Glaze:
Add the ingredients for the cranberry glaze to a blender and blend till smooth. It should be runny and have a bright red colour. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Make the Butterbean spread:
Drain and rinse the butter beans, peel the garlic, and add to a food processor or blender along with the rest of the ingredients for the butterbean spread and blend till silky smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Prepare the Green Herb Sauce:
Blend parsley, olive oil, vinegar, capers, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth (if you prefer a chunkier texture you can also finely chop the parsley and capers or grind up all ingredients to a nestle and mortar). Add water or more oil if needed for a drizzleable consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Assemble the Dish:
Spread the buttery mash on a large serving platter. Place the roasted cauliflower on top. Drizzle over the cranberry glaze followed by the green herb sauce around and over the cauliflower. Serve warm and enjoy!
Looking for the perfect homemade Christmas gift? These healthier Ferrero Rocher bites are a festive twist on the classic treat! They're indulgent, no-bake, gluten-free, and packed with protein. Plus, they can be made virtually sugar-free, depending on the chocolate you choose. Thoughtful, delicious, and made with love—these are guaranteed to impress and make your holiday gifting extra special!
Takes 30 minutesminutes
Serves 20
Ingredients
250ghazelnuts100g for hazelnut butter (~1 ¾ cups hazelnuts, ¾ cup for hazelnut butter)
Chocolate hazelnut filling:
2tbspcoconut oil
200gMedjool datespitted (~1 cup, packed)
1tspvanilla extract
30gcocoa powder~¼ cup
Pinchof salt
Instructions
Prepare Hazelnuts:
Preheat the oven to 180°C.
Spread the hazelnuts on a baking sheet and toast for 8-10 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden.
Transfer the toasted hazelnuts to a clean tea towel and rub them to remove the skins.
Set aside 100g of skinned hazelnuts for hazelnut butter and reserve 20 whole hazelnuts for centres. Roughly chop the remaining hazelnuts.
Make Hazelnut Butter:
In a food processor, blend 100g skinned roasted hazelnuts with the coconut oil and a pinch of salt until they form a nut butter (3-5 mins).
Prepare Filling:
Remove stones from Medjool dates, leaving roughly 200g.
Add pitted dates, vanilla extract, cocoa powder, and 3-4 tbsp water to the hazelnut butter. Blend until a smooth ball forms.
Form Balls:
Take a small portion of the filling (approx 20g) and place a whole hazelnut in the middle.
Roll into smooth balls (approx 1.5-2 cm diameter), ensuring the hazelnut is centred. Repeat for all filling, you should get approx 20 balls.
Roll balls in the chopped hazelnuts, pressing gently so they stick.
Coat in Chocolate:
Melt chocolate in a bain-marie or microwave.
Dip each ball into the melted chocolate, then sprinkle chopped hazelnuts on top.
Enjoy:
Allow the chocolate to set before serving. Enjoy your healthier Ferrero Rocher protein balls!
In this inspiring, we sit down with Alexandra Pope and Sjanie Hugo Wurlitzer, the visionary co-founders of The Red School. Alexandra and Sjanie are internationally recognised for their pioneering work in the field of menstruality—a groundbreaking approach to understanding the power of the menstrual cycle and its role in fostering creativity, wellbeing, and personal transformation.
Episode 178
Together, they’ve co-authored Wild Power and their latest book, Wise Power: Discover the Liberating Power of Menopause. They also host the widely celebrated Menstruality Podcast, where they dive deep into topics of cyclical living and empowerment.
This conversation explores how embracing the natural rhythms of the menstrual cycle and menopause can lead to profound self-discovery and liberation. Alexandra and Sjanie share their wisdom, practical tools, and insights into how cyclical awareness can transform every aspect of life, from relationships and work to health and spirituality.
Whether you’re navigating your menstrual years, approaching menopause, or supporting someone who is, this episode offers empowering insights and practical advice. Alexandra and Sjanie’s work is a call to reconnect with the innate wisdom of the body and embrace the cycles of life as allies in growth and transformation.
Dave & Steve
Lots of love,
SPONSORS & DISCOUNT CODES:
Namawell Juicers are AMAZING! They have absolutely revolutionised the juicing game. We have an exclusive 10% discount for you!
VIVOBAREFOOT: Vivobarefoot Footwear have given our listeners an exclusive 20% discount and if you buy now you also get free access to their incredible course showcasing some of the biggest names in the health and wellness space.
Make your own tortilla? Grab a tortilla wrap, spoon on this delicious filling and customize your creation with your favourite additions such as fresh tomato salsa, creamy avocado slices, and a sprinkle of chopped coriander. Relish every bite!
INGREDIENTS
Cooked Brown Rice (30%) [Water, Brown Rice], Tomatoes (22%), Red Peppers (7%), Sweet Corn (6%), Red Kidney Beans (5%), Onions, Leeks, Black Beans (4.5%), Yellow Peppers (3.5%), Green Peppers (3.5%), Jalapeño Chillies (2%), Spices, Corn Starch, Garlic Purée, Tomato Paste, Rapeseed Oil, Agave Syrup, Salt, Red Chillies, Herbs, Onion Powder, Garlic Powder
ALLERGEN INFORMATION
For allergens incl. Cereals containing Gluten, see ingredients highlighted.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
Typical
per 100g
Energy
321kJ / 76kcal
Fat
0.9g
Of which Saturates
0.1g
Carbohydrates
13g
Of which Sugars
2.7g
Fibre
3.2g
Protein
2.4g
Salt
0.31g
Sodium
0.31g
This Pack Contains 1 Serving
Size: 400g
Make it your own Add your own ingredients e.g. Tofu, peas or whatever you fancy for that extra oomph!
For allergens incl. Cereals containing Gluten, see ingredients highlighted. Contains Soya, Wheat – May Also Contain Traces of Mustard
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
Typical
per 100g
Energy
443kJ / 105kcal
Fat
1.9g
Of which Saturates
0.5g
Carbohydrates
16g
Of which Sugars
0.9g
Fibre
3.5g
Protein
4.3g
Salt
0.32g
Sodium
0.32g
This Pack Contains 1 Serving
Fermented Festive Fruit Punch
This Fermented Festive Fruit Punch is a fun and fizzy drink that’s perfect for the holiday season! Made with fresh cranberries, apples, citrus, and warming spices like cinnamon and cloves, it’s packed with festive flavours and a light, natural sparkle from wild fermentation. We used our Namawell J2 juicer to make the cranberry and apple juice – it’s the best juicer we’ve used and we absolutely love it! Use code HAPPYPEAR10 for 10% off!
Takes 6 daysdays15 minutesminutes
Serves 4
Ingredients
For the fermented punch:
Fresh Cranberries: 200g2 cups
4Apples mediumsweet variety like Fuji or Honeycrisp)
2Orangesunwaxed, organic
1Lemonunwaxed, organic
Fresh Ginger: 10g1-inch piece, peeled
2tablespoonsof brown sugar
3cinnamon sticks
1tspwhole Cloves
1tspStar Anise
To serve:
1tbspwhite sugar
1tbsporange zest
Instructions
Juice the Ingredients:
Feed the cranberries and apples, through your Namawell J2 juicer.
Transfer to Fermentation Vessel:
Pour the juice into a sterilized glass jar, leaving at least 1-2 inches of headspace for bubbling.
Optional: Add a few slices of citrus fruit, ginger, cinnamon sticks, star anise and cloves to the jar to enhance the aromatic notes. We recommend using organic, unwaxed citrus fruit, as we want to preserve the wild yeast on the outer skin of the fruit which kickstarts the fermentation process.
Kickstart Fermentation:
Cover the jar with a cheesecloth or a loose-fitting lid to allow wild yeast and bacteria from the environment to interact with the juice.
Place the jar in a warm, dark place (around 18-24°C / 65-75°F) for 2-4 days
Monitor the Fermentation:
Look for small bubbles and a slight tangy aroma, indicating fermentation is active.
Taste daily to avoid over-fermentation; you want it lightly fizzy and tangy, not overly sour.
Strain and Bottle:
Strain the fermented juice into airtight bottles to remove ginger and apple pieces.
Seal tightly and allow it to ferment for an additional 2-5 days at room temperature for carbonation. Ensure to burp each day to prevent a build up of excess carbonation, this simply means open the lid and close it for a second each day!
Refrigerate to stop fermentation and retain fizz.
Serve
Serve over ice in a tall glass.
Garnish with a sugar rim by mixing orange zest & sugar and rolling the rim of the glass in the sugar mixture. Garnish with a slice of orange and cinnamon stick
These make a wonderful edible gift and great last minute present which everyone likes! Literally takes 30 mins and they can look very professional! If you have a nice box and a ribbon, it can really make them look like a fancy homemade gift!
Takes 30 minutesminutes
Serves 36
Ingredients
300gdark chocolate1 ¾ cups, chopped or chips
150mlHappy Pear oat milk⅔ cup
150gbutterplant-based (⅔ cup)
50gshelled pistachios⅓ cup
50gtoasted hazelnuts⅓ cup
20gfreeze-dried raspberries⅓ cup
Instructions
Break up the chocolate into small pieces and put in a bowl.
Finely dice the pistachios and hazelnuts into a fine crumb ensuring to keep them separate. You could alternatively use a blender. Do the same with the freeze dried raspberries
Put the oat milk and butter into a medium sauce pan on high heat. Bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer until the butter has melted.
Remove from the heat and pour over the chocolate.
Leave to sit for 1 minute and stir until it’s all well combined and super chocolatey.
Divide into three bowls, in one bowl add half the pistachio crumb and mix through, in the second bowl add half of the hazelnut crumb and mix through and in the final bowl add half of the freeze dried raspberries and mix through.
Put each of the three bowls in the fridge to set, this will take approx 20-30 mins.
Remove once set and roll into small balls (approx 15g in weight) being careful not to handle too much as they will melt if you handle them too much.
Coat each different truffle in their respective topping as in the pistachio truffle coat in pistachio and similarly with the other two varieties
Put in a small box or clear bag, label up and enjoy!
This is perfect for those evenings that you don't feel like standing over a stove and washing lots of dishes, it takes 5 mins preparation and then the oven does the work and you only have one pan to wash up! Orzo is pasta that looks like rice and goes wonderfully creamy in this dish. We used our Happy Pear Sundried Tomato Pesto which really elevates the flavour of the dish!
Takes 40 minutesminutes
Serves 2
Ingredients
1onionabout 1 cup chopped
1courgetteabout ½ cup grated or diced
1tin400g of chickpeas (about 1 ¾ cups cooked chickpeas)
300gorzo pastaabout 3 cups dry pasta
800mlvegetable stock1 ⅔ cups
1tin400g chopped tomatoes (about 1 ¾ cups)
100mlHappy Pear sundried tomato pesto or pesto of choice
½tspblack pepper
1tspsalt
100gcherry tomatoesabout ⅔ cup
1tspchilli flakesoptional, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the oven.
Preheat the oven to 200°C (375°F).
Prepare the vegetables and other ingredients.
Peel and finely dice the onion. Dice the courgette into small bitesized pieces. Drain and rinse the chickpeas.
Assemble everything in a casserole dish.
In a large casserole or baking dish, add the diced onion, diced courgette, chickpeas, cherry tomatoes, pasta, vegetable stock, tin of chopped tomatoes, pesto, salt and black pepper. Gently mix everything to combine. Ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
Bake the pasta.
Cover the dish tightly with a lid, baking parchment or aluminium foil. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Remove the foil or lid and bake for a further 10 mins or until the pasta is cooked and soft but still has some bite.
Taste and season .
Remove the dish from the oven and carefully stir to ensure the sauce is evenly distributed. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking by adding more salt, black pepper or chili.
Serve and enjoy.
Serve immediately, garnish with a glug of olive oil, some fresh basil and/ or a sprinkle with chilli flakes and enjoy!
This recipe transforms pistachios into a creamy, sweetened paste that blends into a silky texture. Matcha, though not always our go-to ingredient, complements the pistachio perfectly and adds a vibrant green hue without any artificial colors. We used an ice cube tray for mini bites, but it works just as well in a larger tray cut into squares.
Takes 15 minutesminutes
Serves 24
Ingredients
Chocolate Layer
300gDark chocolateapprox. 1.75 cups
Pistachio Cream Layer
150gshelled pistachio nuts1 cup
1tbspmatcha powder
2tbspcoconut oil
3tbspmaple syrup
1tspvanilla extract
Instructions
Melt Chocolate, layer into mould and freeze
Chop the chocolate into small pieces and melt using a bain marie or microwave. Divide into two bowls. Take half of the melted chocolate and divide between all the squares in the mould. You want to fill each square with chocolate and use a small spoon to brush the chocolate up the sides a little so they form little cups. Put the chocolate filled moulds into the freezer so the chocolate hardens for 15 mins.
Make pistachio layer and layer on
Add the shelled pistachio nuts to a food processor along with the coconut oil, maple syrup and vanilla extract and blend till it forms a silky smooth pistachio butter. This will take a few mins and if your food processor is heating up give it a little break.
Once the chocolate is set, remove from the freezer and spoon the pistachio butter onto each square.
Cover with melted chocolate and cool to set
Pour the additional melted chocolate over the pistachio layer, spreading evenly for a smooth layer. Put in the fridge to set for 30 mins before removing each square and enjoying!
Notes
If you don’t have a silicone mould , you can use a regular baking tray and cut them into squares.
Easy, tasty and very little to clean up! This makes a great quick mid week dinner that also works well as a cold salad the next day if you make extra. If you are Italian, apologies up front for cooking the pasta in the oven which is a big no no in traditional Italian cooking but it works fab here and saves on washing up! We love to serve this with a crust of bread which works perfect to clean up the juices left on the plate! This dish also goes great with your favourite grated cheese to add more richness!
Takes 30 minutesminutes
Serves 4
Ingredients
1red onionabout 1 cup chopped
1carrotabout ½ cup grated or diced
1tin400g of lentils (about 1 ¾ cups cooked lentils)
300gpasta of choiceabout 3 cups dry pasta
400mlvegetable stock1 ⅔ cups
250mlplant milknon-dairy milk of choice (1 cup)
1tin400g chopped tomatoes (about 1 ¾ cups)
15gnutritional yeastabout 2 tbsp
3clovesof garlicabout 1 tbsp minced
1tbspdried thyme or rosemary
50gsun-dried tomatoesabout ⅓ cup
1tbspmaple syrup
½tspblack pepper
1tspsalt
100gcherry tomatoesabout ⅔ cup
1handful30g fresh basilchopped (about ½ cup)
1tspchilli flakesoptional, for garnish
Instructions
Preheat the oven.
Preheat the oven to 200°C (375°F).
Prepare the vegetables and other ingredients.
Peel and finely dice the red onion. Peel and grate the carrot. Peel and finely chop the garlic. Halve the cherry tomatoes. Chop the sun-dried tomatoes into small pieces.
Assemble everything in a casserole dish.
In a large casserole or baking dish, add the diced onion, grated carrot, lentils, pasta, vegetable stock, plant milk, chopped tomatoes, nutritional yeast, garlic, thyme/rosemary, sun-dried tomatoes, maple syrup, and black pepper. Gently mix everything to combine. Ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the liquid for even cooking. Top with the halved cherry tomatoes and chopped basil.
Bake the pasta.
Cover the dish tightly with a lid or aluminium foil. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. Remove the foil or lid and bake for a further 10 mins or until the pasta is cooked and soft but still has some bite.
Stir and garnish.
Remove the dish from the oven and carefully stir to ensure the sauce is evenly distributed. Sprinkle with chilli flakes (if using) or a glug of olive oil and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Serve and enjoy.
Serve immediately, topped with additional fresh basil and vegan Parmesan, if desired.
The Happy Pear is celebrating 20 incredible years, and we’re overflowing with gratitude as we reflect on this amazing journey.
Episode 177
What began in 2004 as two brothers selling cabbages from a humble veg shop has blossomed into something truly special—a thriving café, a farm, a series of bestselling cookbooks, award-winning food products, and a passionate community devoted to health, happiness, and plant-based living. None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of our incredible community.
In this week’s podcast episode, hosted by our wonderful friend Andrea Splendori, we dive into the journey – sharing the highs, the lows, and everything in between.
To mark this milestone, we’re thrilled to announce the launch of our new book, The Happy Pear 20: Recipes and Learnings From the First 20 Years. It’s a heartfelt celebration of our most-loved recipes and the lessons we’ve learned along the way, dedicated to the community that has supported us every step of the way.
Thank you for an unforgettable 20 years. Here’s to continuing to grow, share, and connect through delicious food and shared values!
Dave & Steve
Lots of love,
SPONSORS & DISCOUNT CODES:
Namawell Juicers are AMAZING! They have absolutely revolutionised the juicing game. We have an exclusive 10% discount for you!
VIVOBAREFOOT: Vivobarefoot Footwear have given our listeners an exclusive 20% discount and if you buy now you also get free access to their incredible course showcasing some of the biggest names in the health and wellness space.
We know what you’re thinking – "I’ve seen fire cider before." But trust us, not like this! Most fire cider recipes simply steep ingredients in vinegar, but here we take it a step further by fermenting the vinegar from scratch. Using fresh apples, foraged rosehips, and immune-boosting superfoods, this recipe infuses immunity benefits from the inside out. It's easy to make and a great ally in warding off colds and flus.
Takes 42 daysdays15 minutesminutes
Serves 16
Ingredients
500gapplesabout 2-3 apples
1Lwater4 cups
100gcoconutbrown, or white sugar (½ cup)
Handful of wild rosehips
10gfresh turmericabout 2 teaspoons grated or 1-inch piece
10gfresh gingerabout 2 teaspoons grated or 1-inch piece
20gfresh mint leaves1/2 cup loosely packed leaves
2lemonsideally unwaxed
Pinchof ground black pepper
1tbspcoconut oil
Instructions
Prepare the jar
Use a clean, sterilised 1.5-liter glass jar to avoid contamination.
Dissolve the sugar
In a separate container, dissolve 100g (½ cup) of sugar in 1L (4 cups) of water until fully mixed.
Prepare the ingredients
Slice the apples into quarters. Finely slice the ginger and turmeric. Cut the lemons into quarters.
Add to the jar
Add the apple slices, ginger, turmeric, and lemons to the jar. Follow with the mint leaves, a pinch of black pepper, and the coconut oil.
Pour in the sugar water
Pour the sugar water into the jar, ensuring the ingredients are fully submerged. Use a clean weight or small plate to keep floating pieces submerged.
Cover the jar
Cover the jar with a breathable cloth (like cheesecloth) and secure it with a rubber band. This allows airflow while keeping dust and bugs out.
Start fermentation
Place the jar in a warm, dark spot (20-25°C or 68-77°F) for 1 week to 10 days. Stir the mixture every 2-3 days to promote fermentation and prevent mould formation.
Strain and continue fermenting
After 1 week – 10 days, strain out the solids and return the liquid to the jar. Cover with the cloth again and let it ferment for another 3-4 weeks, stirring occasionally.
Taste test
After the second fermentation, taste the vinegar. If tangy enough, it’s ready. If not, let it ferment for another week.
Bottle and store
Transfer the finished vinegar to a clean bottle. Seal tightly and store in the refrigerator or a cool, dark place.
This Fermented Immunity Elixir is a powerhouse of nutrients and natural probiotics, combining turmeric, ginger, and citrus for an amazing way to support your immune system in the winter months Turmeric and ginger bring their natural detoxifying power, while the vibrant citrus adds a refreshing zing that’s perfect for supporting overall wellness. We love creating recipes like this with our Namawell juicer, which is a dream to use—if you’re interested in trying one, check them out and use HAPPYPEAR10 for 10% off!
Takes 5 daysdays20 minutesminutes
Serves 4
Ingredients
Ingredients for the Turmeric Bug
50gfresh gingerabout 1/4 cup, chopped
50gfresh turmericabout 1/4 cup, chopped
1lemonquartered
100gcoconut or brown sugarabout 1/2 cup
1Lwater4 cups
Ingredients for the Juice
4large carrotsabout 2 cups, chopped
2orangespeeled
1limepeeled
1red grapefruitpeeled
Instructions
Make the Turmeric Bug
Finely chop the ginger and turmeric. Quarter the lemon.
Add the turmeric, ginger, lemon, and sugar to a sterilised jar, then pour in the water. Stir well, seal with a lid, and label the jar with the date.
Leave the mixture to ferment at room temperature. Each day for the next 5 days, “burp” the jar by briefly opening the lid to release any built-up gas, then re-seal. This prevents excess pressure from building up.
After 5 days, you’ll have a fizzy turmeric bug with a yeasty aroma, similar to beer or bread—signs that it’s ready to use. You can use it immediately or store it in the fridge, where it will keep for around 1 week.
Make the Juice
Peel the grapefruit, orange, and lemon.
Cut the carrots into chunks
Add all ingredients into the juicer and blend
Combine the Turmeric Bug and Juice
Mix the carrot and citrus juice with the turmeric bug and enjoy!
We recommend a ratio of 1 part turmeric bug to 3 part juice.
Making your own apple scraps vinegar is a rewarding and eco-friendly way to use up leftover apple peels and cores, reducing waste and creating a nutritious, homemade vinegar in the process. This simple recipe requires only a few ingredients and some patience, but the results are worth the wait. Apple vinegar is naturally packed with beneficial bacteria, enzymes, and a tangy depth of flavour that’s perfect for salad dressings, marinades, and more!
Takes 35 daysdays25 minutesminutes
Serves 12
Ingredients
200gapple scrapsabout 1 ½ cups
1Lwater4 cups
100gcoconut/brown sugar/white sugar½ cup
100mlapple cider vinegar with mother in itabout ⅓ cup
Instructions
Prepare the Jar: Use a clean, sterilised 1.5-liter glass jar.
Dissolve the Sugar: In a separate container, dissolve the 100g (½ cup) of sugar in 1 litre (4 cups) of water.
Add Apple Scraps: Place the apple peels and cores in the jar. Make sure they take up about half of the jar, leaving space for the water.
Pour in the Sugar Water: Pour the sugar water over the apple scraps, covering them completely. If any pieces float, place a clean weight or small plate to keep them submerged.
Cover the Jar: Cover the jar with a breathable cloth (like cheesecloth) and secure it with a rubber band. This allows airflow and keeps dust and bugs out.
Fermentation: Place the jar in a warm, dark place (around 20-25°C or 68-77°F) for approx 1 week to 10 days. Stir the mixture every couple of days to help with fermentation and prevent mould.
Strain and Continue Fermenting: After 1 week – 10 days of initial fermentation, strain out the apple scraps and return the liquid to the jar. Add in the apple cider vinegar to help guide the next fermentation process and to speed up the process. Cover it again with the cloth and let it ferment for another 3-4 weeks until it reaches the desired acidity.
Taste Test: After the second fermentation period, taste the vinegar. If it’s tangy enough, it’s ready to use. If not, let it ferment for another week.
Bottle and Store: Once ready, transfer the vinegar to a clean bottle and seal. Store it in the refrigerator or a cool, dark place.