Most of us are aware of the season of Lent, no matter what religion we follow. I’ve always resisted the idea of “giving something up” during this period, because, for me, this signifies a negative reaction. While this can be helpful to many of us, I like to add something to my life to celebrate this six-week period.
This year, I became more aware of a tradition at my church called Rice Bowl. Simply stated, this project exists to improve food security and nutrition – and feed the hungry – for people in our neighborhood and literally around the world. Right up my alley!
One of the neat parts of Rice Bowl this year is the organizers have focused on food – trying different foods from different countries. This made me think, because many of my readers clamor for recipes, to share some recipes with you during Lent. Perhaps this can be a way YOU can celebrate the season – by trying some new foods, using new recipes, and incorporating some healthier eating habits into your lifestyle!
So, for the next few weeks, I’ll share some recipes, and perhaps some cooking and shopping tips each week. Be sure to stay tuned each week! Maybe you can turn food and eating into a positive experience as you make your way toward better vitality!
This week’s recipe is from Rice Bowl publications and is a Mexican dish called Arroz Rojo.
- 2 cups rice (any variety, but try to use long-grain – not Minute Rice!)
- 1 T expeller pressed olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, diced
- 3 tomatoes, chopped
- ½ onion, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup peas
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 1 chili pepper, chopped (or use chili powder to taste)
- Salt to taste (use nourishing sea salt!)
Directions: Add oil to a large pan on low heat. Add rice and toast until golden. Add garlic, tomatoes and onion; cook until mixture is soft. Add the broth, peas, carrots, chili pepper or powder and salt. When it begins to boil, reduce heat and cover until the rice is fully cooked. Makes 4-6 servings.
For more information on Rice Bowl, visit crs.ricebowl.org. For a great book suggestion on food security and nutrition, check out The End of Food by Paul Roberts.
To Your Vitality!
