Elevate your taste for health. personal chef // catering // cooking club
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Jamaican-born chef Troy Levy talks about ital (rhymes with “vital”), a plant-based way of eating that originated with the Rastafari faith in the 1930s. More than just a vegan diet, ital is about eating nourishing, health-promoting food, eschewing added sugar, oil, and salt. Levy says, "It’s about making food your medicine, and your medicine your food."
Jamaica-born Chef Troy Levy explains the difference between ital food and vegan food and more in this Q&A. Read on!
Another reason to feel great about eating plants! 🌱
A new research review assessed 48 studies published between January 2000 and June 2023 that themselves compiled evidence from multiple prior studies on the links between plant-based diets, heart health, and cancer risk.
The latest review found that overall, vegetarian and vegan diets have “robust statistical association” with better health status on a range of risk factors linked to metabolic diseases, cancer, and death, such as blood pressure and sugar.
These diets are linked to reduced risk of heart disease, gastrointestinal and prostate cancer, scientists found.
Researchers warn against large-scale recommendation of plant-based diets until more studies are completed
With so many delicious fruits & veggies coming into season (hello, strawberries and melon!), knowing how to store produce for maximum freshness can be overwhelming.
Our friendly CSA vendor, Farm Fresh To You has posted this handy guide that breaks it down for us.
https://www.farmfreshtoyou.com/storage-tips
To keep your produce at its best, follow these easy storage & handling instructions. We've included quick cooking tips to help when slow cooking isn't on the menu.
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Happy Earth Day 2024! Small, consistent actions can yield profound results in the long run, so let's all do what we can do protect this beautiful home of ours. 🌎
Such a wonderful night supporting the work of nonprofit Sprouts Chef Training at an event a few weeks ago with my pal, Chef Corey! Sprouts equips youth to rise from hardship through culinary training and job placement. Youth are paired with a chef mentor and case manager to develop the skills needed to secure and maintain a culinary job. Graduates use these entry-level jobs to kickstart culinary careers, pay for education, or pursue new industries. To date, Sprouts Chef Training has placed 160 trainees with 74% of graduates using their internship skills in their jobs and 81% achieving food security. Check them out! 🌱
📷 Damian Steel
Yet another reason to eat more plants!
A recent study reveals that a healthy plant-based diet, involving reduced intake of processed and sugary foods, can decrease the risk of type 2 diabetes by 24% by improving metabolism and organ function.
A plant-based diet has been proven for the first time to improve metabolism and liver and kidney function. At least three-quarters of type 2 diabetes cases could be prevented by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Consuming a diet primarily consisting of plant-based foods has
🌱 Reflecting on the possibilities of 2024 🌿
As we stand at the threshold of a new year, it’s helpful to contemplate the choices that shape our well-being. This year, perhaps you’re considering a shift towards a plant-based lifestyle—a thoughtful decision for both personal health and our planet.
To help ease this transition, check out the Thrive bundle—featuring the best in plant-based cookbooks and guides from top chefs and experts—an array of tools to assist you in your journey toward a more mindful and plant-centric lifestyle.
This isn't about quick fixes; it's a slow, intentional transformation. These resources offer insights and knowledge as you navigate the path to a plant-based life.
Let's approach this new year with a sincere desire for positive change, knowing that small, purposeful steps can lead to a more conscious, compassionate, and healthy lifestyle.
Please note: I have no affiliation with this bundle, I just want to share this with others in case it’s helpful! 🙂
https://www.thrivebundle.com
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Embracing the magic of the Winter Solstice—where the world takes a deep breath, and we celebrate the return of light and the joy it brings into our lives.
It's autumn, there's a chill in the air, and delicious varieties of apples and pears abound. We had to make this delicious Apple & Pear Crumble and wanted to share the recipe so that you can enjoy at home as well!
Apples: Smit Farms
Pears: Amanda & Jimmy's pear tree
A week's worth of delicious plant-based meals delivered to your doorstep? A festive gathering with good friends? We've got you covered!
What a joy to be a part of such a magical daylong retreat last week, hosted by The Hivery and located at the spectacular Willow Camp in Stinson Beach. We served tofu scramble with homemade spinach tortillas and chia puddings topped with berries for breakfast, and for lunch, there was a buffet of pumpkin soup; fresh, local breads; spinach, potato & coconut curry with brown rice; and a sweet potato, quinoa and hazelnut salad. Here are some beautiful images by the uber talented Kim Thompson Steel Imagery.
Our friends at the nonprofit Plant Futures are doing incredible work in laying the foundation for a new generation of food system leaders. They're on a mission to "accelerate the transition to a plant-centric world for planetary, human and animal well being."
Check them out! https://plantfuturesinitiative.org/about-us
Plant-based foods make you feel good. For reasons that will make you feel GREAT.
Countless scientific studies show the many health benefits of a plant-based diet. But the most compelling evidence may be how you and your family feel when avoiding animal foods, sweets, and highly processed foods.
Plant-based foods make you feel good. For reasons that will make you feel great. Countless scientific studies show the many health benefits of a plant-based diet. But the most compelling evidence may be how you and your family feel when avoiding animal foods, sweets, and highly processed foods. What...
Matthew Kenney is an inspiration in the plant-based community! He recently opened his restaurant, Plant Food + Wine, at the Four Seasons in Beverly Hills, and here he describes some of the dishes on the menu. 😋
Matthew Kenney's acclaimed vegan restaurant, Plant Food + Wine, now open in Beverly Hills.
Boost Your Health with Blueberries!
Did you know that these tiny, vibrant gems called blueberries can be a game-changer for your health? Here are just a few reasons why you should make them a regular part of your diet:
🫐 Antioxidant Powerhouse: Blueberries are loaded with antioxidants, like anthocyanins, that help combat harmful free radicals in your body, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and supporting overall well-being.
🫐 Brain Boost: Studies suggest that regular consumption of blueberries may improve cognitive function and protect your brain as you age. Keep your mind sharp with this tasty superfood! 🧠
🫐 Heart-Healthy: Blueberries have been linked to lower blood pressure and reduced risk of heart disease. Keep your ticker in top shape by adding these berries to your meals. ❤️
🫐 Immune Support: Packed with vitamin C, blueberries can give your immune system a much-needed boost. Stay healthy year-round by snacking on these natural immune warriors. 🦠🛡️
🫐 Digestive Health: Blueberries are a good source of dietary fiber, promoting a healthy gut and regular digestion.
So, why not sprinkle some blueberries on your oatmeal, blend them into a smoothie, or enjoy them as a sweet snack? Your taste buds and your body will thank you! 💙🫐
In the early 1980’s, nutritional biochemist T. Colin Campbell, PhD of Cornell University, in partnership with researchers at Oxford University and the Chinese Academy of Preventive Medicine, embarked upon one of the most comprehensive nutritional studies ever undertaken known as the China Project.
Learn more about this groundbreaking study in these few slides. For a more in-depth look, the link to the documentary is below.
https://youtu.be/DgJH50ifMxs?si=fPRJwrLvQDsNKpvH
We're loving these fluffy, delicious, 5-ingredient spinach tortillas! They're great for burritos or wraps, or slice then roll them up and dip them in hummus or baba ganoush.
Blend 2 cups spinach, 2 cups chickpea flour, 1 cup tapioca flour, 2.25 cups water, and 1/2 tsp. salt in a high-speed blender. Pour 1/3 cup of the batter into a pan over medium heat and cook 1-2 minutes per side. Enjoy!
Bravo, California public schools! 👏
Thanks to a surge of nearly $15 billion in state and federal funding, California school districts are ditching the old standbys of frozen pizza and chicken nuggets in favor of fresh, nutrient-dense, whole-food dishes. Districts are building new kitchens, hiring executive chefs, contracting directly with local organic farmers, and training their staffs to cook the finest cuisine.
California school lunches are free for all students. Now, fueled by an influx of funding, the focus is on freshly made, healthy meals.
Developed by Rastafarians, Ital food is a natural way of cooking that tries to avoid meat, processed food, additives, oil, salt, and sugar. The word Ital comes from the English word “vital” with the initial syllable replaced by the letter “i” to signify unity with nature.
Make Ital dishes that are plant-based, vegan, and healthy. A cuisine from Jamaica, Ital food has a goal is to increase 'levity' or the life energy believed to be within all living beings.
Just in case you needed another reason to eat ! 🙌🌱🌎
"Eating a vegan diet massively reduces the damage to the environment caused by food production, the most comprehensive analysis to date has concluded."
Detailed analysis finds plant diets lead to 75% less climate-heating emissions, water pollution and land use than meat-rich ones
Our current favorite breakfast sandwich:
Scrambled tofu & veggies on toasted sourdough with avocado & tomatillo salsa!
🌱 Try swapping tofu for your eggs a few mornings each week! Here's why: 🌱
🥚 Protein Powerhouse: While eggs are a protein source, tofu gives you a serious protein boost without the cholesterol found in eggs. Tofu is a complete protein, containing all essential amino acids, making it a fantastic choice for muscle repair and satiety.
🌿 Heart Health: Tofu is virtually free of saturated fat and cholesterol, unlike eggs which can be high in both. By choosing tofu, you're supporting heart health and reducing the risk of cardiovascular issues down the road.
🍳 Cholesterol Concerns: Eggs can be high in dietary cholesterol, which might not be ideal for individuals with certain cholesterol-related health concerns. Tofu contains no cholesterol, helping you maintain a healthier lipid profile.
🌾 Fiber Factor: Tofu contains dietary fiber that's absent in eggs. Fiber helps regulate digestion, aids in weight management, and supports stable blood sugar levels, ensuring you start your day feeling energized and satisfied.
🥬 Plant-Powered Nutrients: Tofu brings a host of plant-based nutrients to the table, like iron, calcium, magnesium, and various vitamins. Eggs do provide some nutrients, but they lack the diverse range found in tofu and other plant-based options.
🌎 Sustainability Story: Eggs, especially from conventional farming, can have a notable environmental impact due to land use, water consumption, and emissions. Opting for tofu supports a more sustainable food choice, as it requires fewer resources to produce.
🥐 Allergen-Friendly: Eggs are a common allergen, making tofu a great alternative for those with egg allergies or sensitivities. Plus, it's suitable for vegans and vegetarians.
We're thrilled to announce that our leaf & sage cooking club has a new location in downtown Fairfax!
Join us on Saturday, September 30th from 2-5pm at Padma Studio when we'll cook up 4 delicious plant-based dishes, chat about the benefits of a plant-based diet, and enjoy healthy food and community in a beautiful setting.
Space is limited, so sign up today! https://www.padmastudiofairfax.com/events-workshops-trainings/padma-cooking-club
We can't wait for this Netflix special featuring Dan Buettner, who travels around the world to identify the longevity secrets of centenarians!
Blue Zones is coming to Netflix! Travel around the world with author Dan Buettner to discover five unique communities where people live extraordinarily long and vibrant lives.
In the early 2000s, Dan Buettner collaborated with National Geographic to reverse-engineer a formula for longevity. He scoured the globe for years in pursuit of places where people live much longer than average, and the concept of “blue zones” came to fruition. To date, the expeditions unveiled Okinawa, Japan; Sardinia, Italy; Ikaria, Greece; Nicoya, Costa Rica; and Loma Linda, California, as blue zones with the highest rates of living centenarians. These five spots share some similar elements — a plant-based diet, natural movement, and putting family first — that have been proven to promote longevity and health in its residents.
Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones takes members around the world to investigate the diet and lifestyles of those living the longest lives. Buettner offers insight on how to benefit from following at least some of their leads, because the only thing better than looking good as you age, is feeling good as you age.
Learn more: https://www.bluezones.com/documentary/
Hello, Friends!
We're cooking up some exciting new programs and services at leaf & sage, and we can't wait to share with you.
Quinoa ("KEEN-wah") is often described as a "superfood" or "supergrain" because it's packed with nutrients, including protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine amino acids that our bodies can't make on their own. It's also a great source of fiber, containing more fiber than any other grain. Enjoy!
Thanks to Rich Roll and Dr Alan Desmond for clearing up the protein deficiency fallacy! "A whole food, plant-based diet is a whole source of protein."
For those staying in Marin this week, Leaf & Sage plant-based cuisine will have a new menu at the Fairfax Community Farmers' Market for July!
Stop by Wednesday evening between 4pm-8pm for some plant-based tacos, southwest salad and black bean brownies. Everything is delicious, packed with nutrients, and will leave you feeling great!
🌿🥬 Power up your plate with the incredible benefits of SPINACH! 🌱✨
🌟 Supercharged Nutrition: Spinach is a nutrient powerhouse, packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with iron, calcium, and folate. It's like a multivitamin in a leafy green package! 💪🌿
🌟 Strong Bones: Thanks to its high calcium content, spinach promotes healthy bone development and strength. It's an excellent choice for maintaining strong and healthy bones throughout your life. 🦴🥗
🌟 Immune Boost: Want to give your immune system a boost? Look no further! Spinach is loaded with antioxidants and vitamins that help strengthen your body's defenses. Stay healthy and vibrant with every delicious bite! 🌟💚
🌟 Radiant Skin: Say hello to that natural glow! Spinach is packed with antioxidants, which help fight off free radicals and keep your skin looking fresh and youthful. Get ready to shine from the inside out! ✨🌸
🌟 Healthy Heart: Spinach is a heart-healthy superstar! Its rich potassium content helps maintain a healthy blood pressure, while the presence of lutein helps prevent cholesterol from oxidizing, reducing the risk of heart disease. Your heart will thank you! ❤️🌿
🌟 Digestive Health: Looking for a natural way to keep your digestion in check? Spinach is your go-to green! It's high in fiber, which aids in healthy digestion and keeps your gut happy. Feel light and energized after every meal! 💚🌱
🌟 Versatile and Delicious: Spinach is incredibly versatile in the kitchen! You can enjoy it raw in salads, sautéed as a side dish, blended into smoothies, or added to your favorite pasta dishes. The options are endless, and your taste buds will thank you! 😋🍽️
So, let's celebrate the amazing benefits of spinach and make it a regular part of our diet! Add some green power to your plate and let nature work its magic. 🌿✨
Did you know our vegan coconut macaroons are made with cashew butter from Handsome Carver's Flavored Peanut Butter?
Fun fact: Alan, the owner of Handsome Carver’s Nut Butters, works out of the same commercial kitchen where Leaf & Sage plant-based cuisine dishes are created!
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A week's worth of delicious plant-based meals delivered to your doorstep? A festive gathering with good friends? We've got you covered! #PlantBased #tastetherainbow
We had a great time yesterday at our 2nd session of leaf & sage's plant-based cooking club! We made a classic cream of mushroom soup and delicious zucchini-quinoa rolls and chatted about our favorite plant-based foods. Our next session is on Sunday, May 28th from 2-4pm - join us! https://www.leafandsagecuisine.com/cooking-club #veganmarin #marinvegans #plantbased #wfpb #wfpbno
Happy Valentine's Day to YOU! 💗
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