Day Two: Vegan Challenge

Well, I don't think we did too bad today. The boy forgot his lunch (insert growly mommy sounds here). He explained he tried to make good choices. He had a bean burrito and white milk. He held his head down in shame as he shared he had a dairy product. It tickled me that he was at least aware of our challenge for the week. Told him not to sweat it, he did well with the burrito. The husband didn't do too bad either...I think. I know he had a bowl of cereal late morning but not sure if he used the coconut milk or the remainder of the regular milk we have still left.

It is not uncommon for us to eat vegetarian style, even for a couple of days at a time, vegan is pushing our limit. Knowing we are avoiding whole classes of foods makes one crave for it. Passed a Burger King while out walking and wanted a chicken sandwich. I've not desired this in months! Been fine, but as soon as I put a restriction to it, I want it. This sums up how I feel about *dieting* in general. The moment you feel restricted, you crave it. Have to keep reminding myself that there is no restriction, it is a choice... decision in how we are eating this week.

With that said, we had the most delicious dinner!

Cauliflower Supreme

1 large onion chopped large
1 head cauliflower sliced
1 cup thinly sliced celery
1 can organic diced tomatoes
1/2 cup sundried tomatoes (I used the kind soaked in olive oil and seasonings)
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon turbinado sugar
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoon olive oil
1 heaping tablespoon spicy seasoning blend of your choice. I used a Northern African blend.

2 cups cooked kidney beans on the side (I use dried beans. Soak then cook.)

Saute onions until translucent, add cauliflower and celery. Continue to cook on medium heat while you prepare the tomatoes. In a blender, add can of tomatoes, sundried tomatoes and water. You just want to blend coarsely, not puree. Once blended, add to vegetables. Add your choice of seasonings, sugar and olive oil. Simmer for approx. 20 minutes. Serve with a 1/2 cup of the kidney beans on the side.