Did you know that spices can transform a simple plant-based dish into a sensational experience for all your senses? Whether you’re a seasoned plant-based pro or just beginning your journey, incorporating the right spices can elevate your meals and make every bite a flavorful adventure.
Savor the Sensations: The Power of Spices
Spices do more than just add flavor to our food—they awaken our senses and bring joy to our meals. The warm aroma of cumin, the vibrant color of turmeric, the tingling sensation of chili peppers… every spice tells its own story and can turn an ordinary dish into an extraordinary experience.
Spice Spotlight: Garam Masala
This Indian spice blend is a symphony of flavors—cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, cumin and more. Just a pinch of garam masala can add warmth and depth to any dish. Try it sprinkled over roasted vegetables or stirred into a creamy coconut curry for a rich, aromatic boost. ASK for my Chana Masala recipe.
Sensational Recipe: Veggie Curry
- 2 carrots cut Julianne (sliced thin like matchsticks)
- 1 onion sliced thin length wise
- 1 red bell pepper sliced long ways thin with rib and seeds removed
- 1/2 head of cauliflower cut into bite size pieces
- 1/2 cup of frozen peas thawed
- 1 small zucchini cut in half lengthwise then sliced to half moons
- 1/2 can light coconut milk
- 2 cups water
- 3 T curry powder (can be hot or mild or combination of both) or more to taste and you can add some Chana Masala.
- 2 T corn starch
- 1/3 cup cold water to dissolve corn starch
Turn non-stick pot (or stock pot) or wok to med high heat. Add onions, peppers and carrots and sauté for 2 minutes until fragrant. Add curry powder and a few splashed of water. Add the cauliflower, zucchini, broth/water, coconut milk and stir.
Stove top: Simmer for 8-10 minutes then add in the peas and stir. For a thicker sauce stir in corn starch and cold water mixture. (Ensure corn starch is dissolved).
Instant Pot: Sauté as above, add all ingredients except the peas and the water/cornstarch combo. Set to manual cook for 3 minutes. You want this heated through with the veggies not mushy.
Pour over rice and serve. (I use rice noodles for a change up). I like to garnish with sliced green onions, parsley and even a lime wedge.
Realize, the veggie combinations are nearly endless. I like to stick with some of the more traditional veggies, but you could add in sliced mushrooms and diced or chopped potatoes if you choose. Just know potatoes will cook very fast in the Instant Pot. Stove top you’ll have a bit more control.
Senses & Wellness: Spices for a Healthy Body and Mind Spices not only enhance flavors but also offer numerous health benefits. Turmeric and ginger are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, while cinnamon can help regulate blood sugar levels. So, when you’re spicing up your meals, you’re also nourishing your body and mind. (Found in curry powder).
This Sensational Sunday, let your senses guide you. Experiment with new spices, savor the flavors, and enjoy the magic of plant-based cooking. Your taste buds—and your health—will thank you!
Wishing you a flavorful Sunday!
I hope you enjoy making and savoring this recipe. Let me know how it turns out on my Social Media, and feel free to share your photos and feedback! 💚
I started out several years ago watching Forks Over Knives, decided to “try out” the plant-based meal plan and had shockingly incredible results. I’ve never turned back. I have lost nearly 50 pounds, and that is just one side effect that me, my family, friends and clients have experienced after making the change.
Having been an incredible cook my entire adult life, I started my own personal chef service, NuYu Nourish, to extend my help to others. I interned under a celebrity chef, became a celebrity chef myself and have been expanding my reach and goals ever since! My plan follows strictly and simply those of Dr. Mcdougall, Dr. T. Colin Campbell and Dr. Esselstyn.
