Monday, February 1, 2016
Happy International Year of Pulses! (#IYP2016)
Yup, it’s a thing.
Annually, the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations selects one particular crop or food group on which to focus attention, and this year it’s all about pulses; learn more about the health, sustainability, and food production aspects here. We’ve now entered month two, and I’m here to help you celebrate with a wonderful soup.
This dish has recently been on my mind, as it’s a recipe included in Superfoods, currently on sale. It’s a winter favorite with its warm spices and hearty bite. And it’s fitting not only for #IYP2016, but also for Meatless Monday—which is also a thing. It’s taken off so much so that it even had a global presence at the recent climate change talks in Paris (#COP21), with a clever “Less Meat=Less Heat” slogan. Happily, more people than ever are making the connection between their food choices and our environment, something I’ve been talking and teaching about for 20 years.
I hope you pick up a copy of Superfoods, since it has more recipes than this one (that aren’t on my blog). In the meantime, click here to watch my short cooking video on how to make Moroccan red lentil soup, and enjoy!
Hi,love your book and ordering more.I have been vegetarian (no meat or fish) for 7 months now. This was due to health issues. My body is fighting back I thought it was funny but now it’s scaring me . I just want to feel better. Is this something that will pass or am I causing more damage? Just want advice. Thank you Nadine
Hi Nadine, and sorry for the delay in reply – your comment was lost in my spam filter. I really appreciate the kind words. Good health is possible, and can last with attention to what and how you eat. There are lots of articles on the basics here, so please check those out, keep making plant-based recipes, balance calories in with out, and you will get there! I believe in you! All the best, PK
Hey PK, what are the effects, if any, of becoming a vegetarian after being a lifelong meat eater? I’m concerned about my protein reduction as a new vegetarian. Do you recommend a plant based protein supplement or stepping it up with protein vegetarian foods? Thanks for your expert advice.
Hi Peter, It’s a great question! First, congrats for becoming a vegetarian.More than a boon to individual health, it’s a sure way to reduce your environmental footprint and contribute to animal welfare. Cutting out / reducing processed meat is especially important *for everyone* as it is considered carcinogenic by the World Health Organization.There’s a bit of a protein obsession in the US right now, but it’s a fad that isn’t based on biological needs. Most Americans get more than enough protein, in fact. Also, there are so many protein-rich foods beyond meat and animal products. Soy, lentils, quinoa are standouts, but there are small amounts across the plant kingdom. I cover this topic in my book (more at pknewby.com/books) in case of interest. Congratulations again on making this planet-saving, health-promoting change! My best, PK PS – if you get a burger craving try Beyond Meat. It is AMAZING.
Thanks for your insight and encouragement
You are very welcome. Thank YOU! My best, PK