I've been experimenting with more raw foods recently, especially motivated by a recent trip to the Annual Rainbow Gathering in Washington State. I was surprised at how little you need to eat of raw food to be full, and the prolonged energy I had was incredible. Most of the portion sizes given to me were a mere 1/2 cup to a cup, and though I ate more often, I always felt satisfied.
Since returning home, I have played with dehydrated foods, like these raw falafil chips... have sprouted grains like wild rice, and have added them to salads... and I have blended seeds in pates, like I have done with this pesto pate. The raw pepitas I have used in this mix are rich with Omega 3's, and chocked full of nutrients. Paired with basil and garlic, they create a natural powerhouse for inflammation, to help combat bowel irritation and rheumatoid arthritis, among other things.
Pate:
This is what I had on hand:
a large handful of basil, stems trimmed
a large handful of cilantro, stems trimmed
2 cloves of garlic
a large handful of pepitas
a large handful of walnuts
2 tablespoons of artichoke tapenade
olive oil
This is what I did:
Put it all in a mini food processor and blend until you obtain your desired consistency.
Raw crackers:
This is what I had on hand:
1 2/3 cup gluten free bulk falafil mix
(fava beans, garbanzo beans, spices and corn oil)
1 1/4 cup water
This is what I did:
Mix mix and water together, let stand for 15-20 minutes.
Form small balls and smoosh them delicately on a dehydrator tray.
Dehydrate for 12 hours.
Serve together, Enjoy!
For more information on the health benefits of pepitas or pumpkin seeds, click on this link:
For more information on the health benefits of basil, click on this link:
For more information on the health benefits of walnuts, click on this link:
