Vegetarian Balance

In Ayurveda it is known that a satisfying start to the day is important. One way to ensure this is by having a good breakfast, eating something which can help you get through the morning on a physical level but also on an emotional level.

Recently I had some work done in my kitchen to replace a worktop that was initially wrongly fitted. The workman arrived on time but could not get into the building because his employers had not provided the appropriate information. He also had trouble hearing the code when he called me because of the background street noise.

In the end I went down to open the door only to discover that he was not the only one without appropriate information. His employers had also not advised me correctly how to clear the kitchen for the work nor the extent of the work or clearing up involved. Between the workman and myself we came to an amicable compromise, which  I am convinced was supported by my solid breakfast of “power” porridge. It gave me a satisfying start to the day so I felt grounded  and my Vata force balanced. It also provided me with the energy to negotiate rationally and amicably and to keep going until lunchtime.

Let me share the recipe for this delicious dish with you so you can also start your day on a healthy track!

Power Porridge (for 1 person)

2 dates (pitted)
5 almonds (peeled)
Handful of raisins
1 tbsp sunflower seeds
Pinch of cardamom powder
Dried oats
Water
Pinch salt

1. Soak the dates, almonds, raisins and seeds separately overnight in water.
2. In the morning remove the skins from the almonds.
3. Put the soaked ingredients into a blender with the soak water from the raisins and dates. Blend for 30 seconds.
   1. To make oat porridge:  Put 3 tablespoons of dried oats per person in a saucepan.
   2. Add at least double the quantity of water and a pinch of salt.
   3. Bring to the boil and cook on a low flame for 5-10 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
4. Serve the porridge with the blended fruit and nut/seed mix and cardamom powder.
5. The porridge may also be served on its own with maple syrup.

Enjoy!

So what did you think of the recipe? Did it help you have a satisfying start to your day? Feel free to share your comments below.

I started out as a student vegetarian, admittedly because it was cheaper but also because a college friend of mine was vegetarian and her food was always delicious and interesting. I spent my early vegetarian days eating a lot of lentils and dairy products and a certain amount of soy-based products like many who transition from a meat-based diet. At that time my main reason for being a vegetarian was my dislike of how animals are kept and killed.

Moving to Switzerland saw a new start to my vegetarian phase. I soon took the decision to become a lacto-vegetarian, someone who eats dairy products (one fondue a year is a must, even though my mucus levels increase afterwards!) . However, most of my food is now plant-based, so closer to that of a vegan. My reasons have also changed. One of main reasons I now choose to be vegetarian is simply because of how good I feel and the amount of energy I have when I eat this way.