Hawkins Holistic

Naturally Yours
September 16, 2014

Recipe: Chocolate-Banana Pudding (V/GF)

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Results may not appear as shown. Expect chocolatey goodness nonetheless.

 

Oh yes. A decadent dessert that your mind & body can feel good about eating!

I have a somewhat insatiable sweet tooth, yet it was certainly pleased with today’s concoction. The fact that it’s vegan, raw, and gluten-free is just the icing on the cake (come to think of it, if I left it a bit thicker this could potentially be used as cake icing…hmmm…challenge accepted, self!).

Chocolate-Banana Pudding

  • 1 large ripe banana (very spotted peel with some yellow still peeking through)
  • 1 ripe avocado (indents when pressed)
  • 1/4 cup Dutch-process cocoa powder (alkalized)
  • 1/4 cup coconut palm sugar
  • 2 tbsp coconut milk
  • 1 tbsp maca powder (ancient superfood)
  • 1 tbsp chia seeds (for a bit of texture and added nutrition!)
  • 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • Dash of sea salt

Combine all ingredients in a food processor or high-functioning blender and puree until a desired consistency is reached. Cover and refrigerate for 1 hour before serving. Serves 4.

I topped my pudding with organic peanuts for a bit of added crunch (and decadence!). Berries would go very well, too. ♥

Naturally yours.

Nutritional info per serving: 215 calories, 9.6 g fat, 52.2 mg sodium, 37.4 g carbohydrate, 8.2 g dietary fiber, 5.1 g sugar, 5.3 g protein.

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September 16, 2014

Pemberton Livin’ & Lovin’

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Mosquito Lake, Pemberton

Last weekend, I was blessed with an opportunity to stay on an amazing property in Pemberton, BC. Upon arrival I was given a tour, throughout which I was constantly catching my breath. The elevated forest-dense lot covered 8.5 acres containing a wood framed house, a large shed, a barn, a massive camper/trailer, and a private trail to hike and ride. It felt like I was in a dream, a living dream!

The property was off the beaten path in the best way. A <10 min drive gets you to Pemberton Village for a coffee at Mount Currie Coffee Co, a pint at The Pony, or a delicious meal at farm-to-table restaurant Solfeggio (#best). A 30 min drive would get you to the hustle and bustle of Whistler. But Pemberton and Whistler cannot be compared… Pemberton is a small community with large farmlands, an easy pace, and friendly, laid-back locals. Everyone that we talked to loved living there and seemed so content with their chosen lifestyle. As my friend and I wandered the town and sat by the lake, anxiety took a back seat, and it felt great. Pemberton, with its blanket of mountains and rich agriculture, has a good vibe.

Solfeggio, Pemberton

From a holistic nutrition point-of-view, I noticed that Pemberton could use some help! I am a cafe-aholic and I know an unhealthy gluten-free/vegan muffin when I see one (sugar is vegan and gluten-free, just sayin). I could also envision myself working on a farm or helping a local B&B with their breakfast menu. There are artisanal niches to be filled!

I’ll wrap my Pemberton post by saying this. Briefly immersing in the lifestyle and talking to the locals showed me that it is possible to live by your own standards. Eschewing what doesn’t work for you and embracing what does, as non-traditional as it may seem, is a gift to yourself. Transition takes courage, yes, but the doors are open. Far out.

Naturally yours.

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