Vegan Cookies, and Fruit Cake for Christmas

Christmas is all about snow, family and friends in North America.  I just love to see the colorful lights, decorated christmas tree and eat yummy cakes and cookies.

Today, it's possible to relish Christmas vegan fare from Atlanta to New Delhi and Dubai to Sydney. Almost all the supermarkets across the world carry soy milk, almond milk, vegan cream, vegan butter, and egg alternatives...

Here are some amazing websites for delicious christmas recipes...

1. http://www.veganaustralia.org.au/egg_substitute_guide_for_vegan_cooking

2.  http://www.veganricha.com/2012/12/spiced-fruit-and-nut-christmas-cake.html

3.  https://www.bustle.com/articles/199030-50-vegan-christmas-recipes-for-2016-from-breakfast-to-booze

4.  http://www.peta.org.uk/living/vegan-christmas-2016/

5.  http://metro.co.uk/2016/11/18/how-to-make-a-perfect-vegan-christmas-pudding-6259887/

Growing Number of Vegans in United Kingdom

According to latest news report," the number of vegans in Britain has risen by more than 360 percent over the past decade" .  I was so happy to read it! Yes, Brits are really smart...

Vegan diet is going mainstream in United Kingdom. Many Brits are going vegan because it is good for their health. Brits concerned about global warming and animal suffering are also going vegan. It is really so nice to see that United Kingdom - Land of fish and chips , is embracing Vegan diet (Plant-based diet ).

Here are some interesting articles about vegans in United Kingdom...

1. http://www.thecanary.co/2016/12/10/rise-veganism-uk-shows-push-positive-change-opinion/

2. http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/how-to-have-a-vegan-christmas_uk_584e88f7e4b040989fa72d1f

3. http://www.cookingforvegans.co.uk/eatingout/

4. http://www.timeout.com/london/blog/five-places-in-london-that-serve-vegan-ice-cream-082616

5. http://www.peta.org.uk/blog/vegans-guide-dairy-free-yogurt/

Bhagvad Gita and Food

Bhagvad Gita is a sacred Indian scripture.  Lord Krishna, the supreme God of Hindus has given wonderful tips to lead our life in peaceful way. Today, Bhagvad Gita has been translated into numerous languges across the world. Our world will be brimming with peace and prosperity if everyone follows Lord Krishna's teachings.  Mahatma Gandhiji often read Bhagvad Gita, for answers to the hard questions he encountered in his life.

Nearly a century ago, Mahatma Gandhiji took a vow not to consume  cow's milk when he found that cows were subjected to a cruel procedure. Mahatma Gandhi considered milk as non-vegetarian
 http://www.gandhifoundation.net/about%20gandhi5.htm

Lord Krishna says that we should consume fruits, nuts, and freshly cooked food. Lord Krishna says,
we should try to eat Sattvic food in moderate quantity.  Lord Krishna says that cow's milk is nectar. However, the present day " cow's milk" from  is infused with harmones and cruelty. In India - land of Lord Krishna, farmers induce cows with oxyrocin harmones to produce more milk.  In many countries, cows are slaughtered once they stop producing milk.

In this day and age, meat and cow's milk go hand in hand . Thousands of people claim to follow Bhagvad Gita, but relish milk and milk products such as ghee, butter and cheese.  Today, I'm sure Lord Krishna would ask people to thrive on fresh vegan food - Ahimsa food(cruel-free food).

You can read this amazing Bhagvad Gita online...

http://www.bhagavad-gita.org/

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9rRokRTEMZ8

Maneka Gandhi - Inspiring and Motivating Indians to Follow Vegan Diet

Maneka Gandhi is an amazing woman.  Maneka Gandhi has dedicated her life for the welfare and protection of animals,  unfortunate Indian women and our beautiful Earth, from past twenty years . She has been in politics for more than two decades. At present, Maneka Gandhi is the Cabinet Minister of Women and Child Development.

Maneka Gandhi has loved animals from her childhood. Maneka Gandhi has written a couple of books about animals . From past few years she has been writing about animal cruelty, vegan diet and environment for leading Indian newpapers such as The Hindu, The Times of India, and Deccan Herald . In 1992 Maneka Gandhi started People for Animals, an organisation to protect  the wild and domestic animals of India.

Recent surveys has shown that the number of vegans is increasing in India. I strongly feel that Maneka Gandhi is one of the reasons for growing number of Vegans in India.

Here are some interesting articles, interviews and videos about Maneka Gandhi

1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PjYZnsOuuUo&t=22s

2. http://english.mathrubhumi.com/news/columns/faunaforum/silver-foils-are-not-vegetarian!-maneka-gandhi-1.1485911

3. http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/home/environment/developmental-issues/Being-vegetarian-is-the-only-way-to-save-the-planet-Maneka-Gandhi/articleshow/19650129.cms

4. http://www.peopleforanimalsindia.org/

ISKCON and Vegan Diet(Cruel-free diet)

ISKCON is a spiritual organization . ISKCON is all about Lord Krishna. Millions of people across the world consider Lord Krishna to be the Supreme Lord. Devotees of ISKCON love Lord Krishna, and they are always chanting the Mahamantra - Hare Krishna, Hare Rama.  Cows are very dear to Lord Krishna. Lord Krishna spends his time tending to the most beautiful and innocent cows in Goloka...

Most of the ISKCON devotees are Vegetarians.  However, thousands of ISKCON devotees are becoming vegan after learning about the horrible condition of cows in dairy farms...

Many ISKCONS have Vegetarian restaurant - Govinda vegetarian restaurant across the world. Only vegetarian food is available in Govinda's. However, I can find couple of vegan dishes in Govinda's...

Today , I read few interesting articles about ISKCON and vegan lifestyle...

1. http://www.eater.com/2016/8/4/12364764/hare-krishna-restaurants-vegetarian#6599195

2. http://www.all-creatures.org/murti/art-hare-krishna-vegan.html

3. http://iskconnews.org/16-million-people-in-the-us-are-now-vegan-or-vegetarian,4630/

4.  http://centers.iskcondesiretree.com/restaurants/

Vegan Thanksgiving is Becoming Popular in United States

Thanksgiving Day is a national holiday in United States. Thanksgiving has been celebrated in United States for more than two centuries. On Thanksgiving, Americans love to be with their near and dear ones. And Americans love to relish good food on Thanksgiving Day. Roasted Turkey , mashed potatoes and Pumpkin Pie has been tradition dishes served on Thanksgiving.

Today, Tofurky(made from wheat and organic tofu) has replaced Turkey in millions of American homes.  Today, as thousands of Americans are exploring vegetarian and vegan food, it is really possible for vegans to have wonderful Thanksging dinner with family and friends.

A great news - According to a popular newspaper , the sale of Turkeys has been decreasing from past five years.

A couple of days ago, my young son made a profound statement . He said, "People who love birds should not eat TURKEYS"! I was overwhelmed with emotions when I heard this profound sentence...

Here are some interesting links related to tofurky and vegan Thanksgiving...

1. http://www.marketwatch.com/story/thanksgiving-dinner-in-2016-more-tofu-and-less-turkey-2016-11-22

2. http://www.npr.org/2016/11/20/502782533/vegans-and-vegetarians-gather-for-a-different-type-of-thanksgiving

3. http://cooking.nytimes.com/68861692-nyt-cooking/1878874-vegan-thanksgiving

4. http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/11/10/vegetarian-thanksgiving-a-festive-vegan-torte/?_r=0

5. https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/food/the-vegetarian-dish-that-will-make-thanksgiving-guests--and-their-hosts--happy/2016/11/14/1d816bd6-9fa6-11e6-a44d-cc2898cfab06_story.html

November - World Vegan Month

This month, thousands of people across the world are trying vegan fare for their health and the environment. Today, it's really easy to thrive on vegan diet from Australia to India and Canada to Saudi Arabia. Doctors across the world are asking people to consume more plant-based food items...

If you are based in India, it's really a piece of cake to thrive on a vegan diet. Here are some interesting websites...

1. http://www.dnaindia.com/lifestyle/report-go-vegan-with-a-vengeance-2270247

2.  http://vegan-india.blogspot.com/#sthash.VYEZA454.dpbs

Before visiting a new country or a city , please visit Happy Cow to get an idea about vegan and vegan-friendly restaurants ...

 https://www.happycow.net/

If you like Indian cuisine, the internet is brimming with numerous mind-boggling vegan websites and vegan food blogs. Here are some of my favorite Indian vegan food blogs...

1.  http://holycowvegan.net/

2.  http://www.veganricha.com/

3. http://blog.veganosaurus.com/p/recipe-hub.html 

If you love cakes, cookies , and ice creams , then it is really possible to relish vegan cakes, and vegan ice cream, without using cruel products - eggs, dairy milk, butter and cream.

http://www.theppk.com/category/recipe/desserts/

 http://www.bonappetit.com/test-kitchen/how-to/article/vegan-ice-cream-recipes

http://plantpoweredkitchen.com/recipes/recipe-cashew-banana-ice-cream/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jMjLBBXsFe4

Vegan Sweets For Diwali

Diwali - Hindus biggest festival is all about Love,  Non-Violence, Family, Friends and Food. Thanks to growing vegan concept in India, these days you can get "vegan sweets" in many stores!

Terra Earth Food has vegan sweets in Chennai. Here is the link ,
http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-downtown/vegan-sweets-for-deepavali/article9246670.ece

You can also make yummy Vegan Indian sweets without ghee, butter and milk. I'm planning to make vegan almond burfi, carrot halwa , and Kaju Katli for Diwali. The blogs - Vegan Richa , Manjula's Kitchen and Holy Cow are filled with many delicious vegan Indian sweet recipes...

 http://www.cntraveler.com/stories/2014-10-23/recipe-vegan-anjeer-barfi-to-celebrate-diwali

http://veganontheprowl.blogspot.com/2013/10/richas-brilliant-vegan-diwali-sweets-e.html

http://www.veganricha.com/2016/09/vegan-carrot-halwa-gajar-halwa-recipe.html

http://holycowvegan.net/vegan-indian-sweets

 http://pyjamapeople.in/index.php/2016/10/05/vegan-baking-101/

http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/try-this-at-home-vegan-desserts-for-the-party-season-christmas-new-year/1/548255.html

Date and Almond Shake - Vegan Drink for Kids and Adults

These days it is cold in the morning, and I want to give some warm breakfast for my son before he goes to school. From past few days, I'm making "Date and Almond Shake". I folow Dr. Vasant Lad's recipe, but I replace milk with water.  Here is the recipe...
https://www.banyanbotanicals.com/info/blog-the-banyan-insight/details/dr.-vasant-lads-date-almond-shake/

I soak few almonds and dates in the night. In the morning, I blend it with some water. I add this dates and almond paste to boiling water. In few minutes,  my son relishes nutritious dates and almond shake.  It is really so easy to make in the morning, and I hope you make it for your family...

Vegan Tomato Omlette - Chickpea flour Pancakes

Indian omlette (Chickpea flour omlette) taste so much like "Regular Omlette". I'm always looking for interesting vegan omlette recipes. Today, I relished awesome Tomato omlette from my favorite blog - saffron trail.
 https://www.saffrontrail.com/vegan-tomato-omelette-chickpeaflour-pancakes-recipe

Chickpea flour (Garbanzo flour) omlettes are really so easy to make.  I like to eat them with spicy chutney or tomato sauce. Here are some good vegan omlette recipes...

1. http://vegan-fare.blogspot.com/2007/09/indian-vegan-omlette.html

2. http://holycowvegan.net/2011/03/eggless-vegetable-omelet-besan-chilla.html

3. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q6wQgDmewSg

4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QDiUoKP02Xk

October 2 is International Day of Non-Violence

More than a century ago, Mahatma Gandhiji - Greatest leader of India, was born on October 2, 1869. Mahatma Gandhi used Non-Violence to bring freedom to India. Today, millions of people across the world consider Gandhi as their role model. Our world will be in peace and harmony if we try to follow Gandhiji ideas and way of life.

Mahatma Gandhiji led a very simple life. He ate simple, but nutritious food every day. Brown rice along with lentil stew was his staple food. Gandhiji was disgusted with the idea of consuming animal products such as milk. Gandhiji took a vow not to consume cow's milk after he came to know about the cruel procedure - Phooka or Doom dev
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cow_blowing

Gandhiji had great respect for cows and all other animals. Gandhiji says, "Cow protection to me is not mere protection of the cow. It means protection of that lives and is helpless and weak in the world."

Nearly two decades ago, when I was reading the book - My Experiments With Truth , by Mahatma Gandhiji, I came across a profound sentence. The SENTENCE “To my mind, the life of a lamb is no less precious than that of a human being.” changed my life. I became a vegetarian while reading this amazing book...

To know more about Mahatma Gandhiji - greatest icon in history of mankind,  please visit...

1.  http://www.history.co.uk/biographies/mahatma-gandhi
2. http://www.mkgandhi.org/autobio/autobio.htm
3.  http://www.indianlink.com.au/why-gandhi-is-still-relevant-today/
4.  http://www.peta.org/features/gandhi/
5.  http://www.idausa.org/campaigns/the-guardian-campaign/quotes/
6.  http://kingencyclopedia.stanford.edu/encyclopedia/encyclopedia/enc_kings_trip_to_india/
7. https://www.indiacurrents.com/articles/2016/10/01/truth-and-nonviolence-mk-gandhi-today

Vitamin B12 Is a Very Important Nutrient For Vegans and Non-vegans

Vitamin B12 is the only nutritient not present in vegan diet. Defiency of Vitamin B12 can cause everything from Cancer to Osteoporosis and Depression to Neural Tube defects. Vitamin B12 is required for the proper function and development of the brain, nerves, blood cells, and many other parts of the body.

Vitamin B12 is available in meat and milk products. So, it is very important for Vegans to take Vitamin B12 supplement. I don't eat fortified foods regularly, so I make sure to take Vitamin B12 once in 15 days.

Whenever I talk with friends , family and cousins about Vegan diet, I always tell them about the impotance of taking Vitamin B12 supplement. 

According to many reports, nearly 15 % of the population is Vitamin B12 deficient.

Please read these articles to know more about the importance of Vitamin B12 in our diet

1. http://veganhealth.org/b12/vegansources

2. http://www.vrg.org/nutrition/b12.php

3.  http://www.pcrm.org/health/diets/vegdiets/dont-vegetarians-have-trouble-getting-enough

4.  http://www.nytimes.com/2016/09/06/well/mind/vitamin-b12-as-protection-for-the-aging-brain.html?_r=0

5. https://in.style.yahoo.com/are-you-tired-all-the-time-vitamin-b12-deficiency-053838054.html

6.  https://sharan-india.org/vitamin-b12/

7. http://www.livemint.com/Leisure/15Otix14d5vjQHcTtNM94O/Why-vegetarians-should-worry-about-vitamin-B12-intake.html

8.  http://www.thehindu.com/features/magazine/vitamin-b12-deficiency/article6710861.ece

Vegetarians and Vegans in Russia

More than a century ago, the concept of "Vegetarian Diet " was banned in Russia. Thanks to one of the greatest writer - Leo Tolstoy , many Russians have embraced vegetarian and vegan diet for the past few decades.

Traditional Russian cuisine is meat-based. Soups, stews, and pancakes contain meat and butter-milk. Today, famous Russian writers are Vegans .Thanks to internet, youtube , online forums, the concept of vegan diet is rapidly growing in Russia. Russians love Indian culture , tradition and food. I guess this is also one of the reasons for growing popularity of vegetarian fare in Russia...

I'm sure in few decades most of the smart Russians will thrive on Vegan Diet!

Here are some interesting articles about Vegetarians, and Vegans in Russia.

1. http://www.ivu.org/history/tolstoy/1889.html

2. http://www.peacefuldumpling.com/vegan-in-st-petersburg-russia

3. http://russia-ic.com/culture_art/cuisine/1541#.V-WHYM9BTIU

4. https://www.hinduismtoday.com/modules/smartsection/item.php?itemid=1505

5. https://themoscowtimes.com/articles/more-beets-less-meat-as-vegans-take-moscow-47462

6. https://loriperkovich.wordpress.com/2014/07/14/vegan-food-foraging-in-moscow-russia/

7. http://www.vegelicacy.com/blog/12/russian-vegan-recipes

Growing Mock Meat Market in India

Millions of Indians love meat, but they don't want to see the suffering and pain of chickens , goats, sheep and pigs.

Thanks to "Mock Meat", Indians are now able to relish mock Chicken 65 and Mock Tandoori Chicken made with wheat protein and soya protein.

Today, I read few interesting articles about mock meat in India.

1. http://www.businessinsider.in/This-caf-in-Gurugram-serves-mock-meat-and-that-is-the-biggest-upcoming-revolution-in-the-Indian-food-industry/articleshow/54426181.cms

2. http://www.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/andhra-currys-mock-meat-menu/article7403459.ece

3. https://www.iskconbangalore.org/blog/veggie-meat-new-food-trend/

4. http://www.petaindia.com/blog/vegan-eid-mubarak/

Matthew Kenney - Vegan Chef and Cookbook Author

Matthew Kenney is an inspiring vegan chef and entrepreneur. Few decades ago,  Matthew Kenney grew up eating meat almost every day in United States.

Today, Matthew Kenney is giving inspiring talks about advantages of plant-based lifestyle.  Thanks to his vegan cookbooks , and enticing vegan dishes, many people are exploring the wonderful taste of plant-based diet. You will fall in love with plant-based diet when you see Matthew Kenney's twitter.
(@MKlifestyle)

Recently, I read and saw a couple of interesting articles and videos about Matthew Kenney...

1. http://observer.com/2016/09/matthew-kenney-why-im-vegan/

2. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_MT5zE5plno

3. http://www.vogue.com/13391662/chef-matthew-kenney-plant-based-food-revolution/

4. http://www.mensjournal.com/food-drink/chefs-restaurants/vegan-chef-matthew-kenney-gets-a-place-at-the-table-20141112

Turin Mayor Advocating Vegan Diet

Chiara Appendino - Turin's mayor is urging everyone in Turin to go vegetarian.  Chiara Appendino strongly feels that meat-free and even dairy-free living is good for environment and also the health of the citizens.

I hope other mayors, ministers, Presidents and Prime Ministers of cities, and countries across the world advocate plant-based diet for better health and environment...

Here are some interesting articles about Chiara Appendino, and  vegetarian concept in Italy.

1. https://www.theguardian.com/world/2016/jul/21/turin-mayor-italys-first-vegetarian-city-five-star

2. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-3530273/Vegan-men-reveal-plant-based-diet-helped-beef-up.html

3. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/magda-abufadil/a-tourist-gem-called-turi_b_11663042.html

Vegan Kids

Every day thousands of kids across the world are relishing vegan food. Yes, with careful planning -kids are able to get all the necessary nutrients in their vegan diet. Lentils, beans, and tofu is rich in proteins. Spinach, oranges and other fruits are rich in calcium. Almonds, cashews and walnuts are brimming with healthy fats.

My son loves to eat watermelon and mangoes for breakfast. Sometimes, he relishes green smoothie, made with bananas, dates , mint , cilantro and curry leaves. For lunch it is usually lentils or beans curry with brown rice . Sometimes he loves tofu curry with broccoli for lunch. For evening snacks, he loves cashews and raisins. Sometimes, he likes to eat herekayi bajji(vegetable fritters) or aloo bonda(pototo fritters). For dinner it is adai(lentil and brown-rice pancakes). Once every couple of days, he eats multivitamin in the form of vegan vitamin gummies.

Vitamin B12 is the only nutrient not present in the vegan diet, so it is very important for vegan adults and kids to take Vitamin B12 supplement.

Today, I read some interesting articles about vegan families and vegan kids...

https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/jul/19/parents-raising-vegan-babies

http://www.irishtimes.com/life-and-style/health-family/parenting/raising-children-vegan-meet-the-families-1.2735935

https://sharan-india.org/vegan-children/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sgi7lJMTEiw

Jackfruit - Mock Meat

For me, Jackfruit is synonymous with summer season. In Bengaluru, I grew up eating Jackfruit almost every week. Very rarely, my mom used to make curry with tender unripe Jackfruit.

Now, In Atlanta, we get delicious Jackfruit in Indian grocery stores. Most of the times, I relish eating delicious Jackfruit. I sometimes use the seeds to make Sambar(thick lentil gravy) along with potato and eggplant.

These days, unripe tender jackfruit is making waves in "Vegan World". Yes, tender jackfruit taste like meat!  Food blogs, and websites are awash with yummy jackfruit dishes - BBQ Jackfruit burgers , Jackfruit pulled pork sandwiches , and Vegan ribs .

Here are some interesting links to jackfruit articles and tasty recipes...

http://www.nationalgeographic.com/people-and-culture/food/the-plate/2016/07/jackfruit-sustainable-vegetarian-meat-substitute/

http://blog.fatfreevegan.com/2016/07/jacked-vegan-ribs.html

http://www.shape.com/healthy-eating/meal-ideas/vegan-dream-why-jackfruit-new-meatless-bbq

http://vegnews.com/articles/page.do?pageId=5978&catId=2

http://www.shape.com/healthy-eating/meal-ideas/10-jackfruit-recipes-will-make-you-wonder-why-youve-been-missing-out

http://www.onegreenplanet.org/vegan-recipe/jackfruit-fried-chicken/

http://www.onegreenplanet.org/vegan-food/have-you-tried-cooking-with-jackfruit-yet-get-started-with-these-recipes/

Vegan Mango Lassi

Mango lassi is a refreshing summer drink in India. In Atlanta, all the Indian restaurants make Mango lassi with dairy milk and yogurt. So, I just enjoy delicious vegan food in Indian restaurants...

Today, I made delicious vegan mango lassi with home-made almond milk and delicious mango. Both my son and I relished it...

You can find many delicious vegan mango lassi recipes on the internet.

You should really try this delicious Indian drink, before summer ends...

http://www.veganricha.com/2014/02/mango-lassi-and-so-delicious-coupon.html

http://www.huffingtonpost.in/smriti-kirubanandan/try-this-vegan-mango-lassi-for-a-glassful-of-goodness/

https://veganthom.wordpress.com/2012/11/01/vegan-mango-lassi/

http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/recipe/vegan-mango-lassi

Indian Vegans Spreading Vegan Concept

Thanks to Internet and Youtube, so many vegans in India and across the world are giving interviews and talking about Vegan diet - Ahimsa diet (cruel-free diet ) to everyone from friends to relatives and strangers to coworkers

I'm sure in a span of few years vegan diet will become more popular...

Here are some interesting Youtube link...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BvPNag0S__M

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KTtJljp-QZ0

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P7lvI_TDB-w

https://twitter.com/365vegans?lang=en

Vegan Revolution in American Restaurants

In United States, the number of vegans is increasing every day. So,  restaurants are embracing vegan diet and creating nutritious and mouth-watering vegan dishes!

In short, It is really easy to thrive on vegan fare in United States...

Today, I read some interesting articles about growing vegan trend in United States Restaurants...

http://www.dallasnews.com/lifestyles/food-wine/food-wine-headlines/20160715-theres-a-quiet-vegan-revolution-taking-hold-in-dallas-restaurants.ece

http://vegnews.com/articles/page.do?pageId=7804&catId=2

http://www.vrg.org/journal/vj2008issue4/whos_veggie_friendly.html

http://urbantastebud.com/43-vegan-chain-restaurant-menus-every-vegan-needs-know/

https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/travel/can-you-maintain-a-vegan-diet-while-traveling-yes-but-it-will-take-some-strategizing/2016/03/29/19e08b68-ebbc-11e5-bc08-3e03a5b41910_story.html

Vegans in Chandigarh

It is really so nice to see that so many teenagers and adults are loving Vegan Food in Chandigarh. Thanks to Peta for exposing animal pain and suffering to thousand of people in Indian cities. Now, educated Indians are making smart choice - They are going VEGAN!

Today, I read few interesting articles about vegan diet in Indian cities. Here are the links to interesting articles...

http://www.tribuneindia.com/news/life-style/going-great-vegans/258726.html

http://www.livemint.com/Leisure/7awLOdnjsRN3S7YA9vamJO/Dish-it-up-at-these-workshops.html

http://www.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/bengalurus-vegans-show-the-way/article7827018.ece

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/Hyderabad-goes-the-vegan-way/articleshow/53150687.cms

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/diet/Vegan-is-the-way-to-go/articleshow/44995800.cms

Vegan Weddings in India

I love Indian Hindu weddings - so colorful and the FOOD is always vegetarian! Actually, most of the dishes are vegan in South Indian weddings.

Indian Hindu wedding is all about expensive silk sarees, and milk based sweets. Ghee is used in sacred fire rituals. In short, Indian weddings cause lot of pain and suffering for millions of animals.

These days, many people are going for "Vegan Wedding" in India. I hope many people in India go for vegan wedding...

Today, I read a couple of interesting articles about vegan wedding in India. Here are the links...

http://www.thehindu.com/features/metroplus/society/the-indian-wedding-goes-green/article8760421.ece

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/Hyderabad-goes-the-vegan-way/articleshow/53150687.cms

http://mashable.com/2016/05/11/indian-wedding-eco-friendly-vegan/#VVL7IK6gYqq6

Dreena Burton - Vegan Cookbook Author From Canada

Dreena Burton is inspiring thousands of people in Western countries to eat plant-based fare. Dreena is from Canada, and from past 20 years she has written vegan cookbooks and regularly blogs about delicious vegan recipes, and gives amazing shopping tips.

Here are some interesting links to know more about Dreena Burton and her yummy vegan recipes...

1 http://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/food/article-3011271/Vegan-blogger-says-recipes-make-meat-free.html

2 http://www.thetelegram.com/Living/2015-08-11/article-4241440/From-Vienna-Sausages-to-vegan/1

3 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wlzb47yaLD8

4 http://plantpoweredkitchen.com/recipe-page/

Deepak Chopra and Plant-based Diet(Vegan Diet)

Deepak Chopra - world renowned author, and spiritual guru has influenced millions of Americans to lead a stress-free life.  Today, many Americans do yoga, and meditate regularly. Yes, Deepak Chopra talks about "Mindfull Eating". Deepak Chopra says, we should ask , "How Hungry am I ?" before we begin to eat our lunch or dinner...

Deepak Chopra is a vegetarian. I have been reading an amazing book - Creating Health by Deepak Chopra. Deepak Chopra says " Pay attention to eating. Eat when you are hungry, and do not eat when you are not hungry." In the book, he also says, " Along with many other physicians, I am convinced that a vegetarian diet is the best one for health."

Here are some interesting articles from Chopra.com

1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dVr7VndoawM

2. http://www.chopra.com/ccl/the-vedic-chef-3-vegan-meals-to-balance-the-doshas

3. http://www.examiner.com/article/dr-deepak-chopra-details-20-pound-weight-loss-his-diet-and-workout-secrets


4 http://articles.latimes.com/2013/dec/17/news/la-dd-deepak-chopra-diet-20131217

Eat Plant-based diet to Avoid Diabetes

My heart breaks when I see so many people suffering from Diabetes. Yes, diet plays a pivotal role on the onset of Diabetes. Studies after studies have been showing that a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lentils, beans and nuts has the capacity to reduce the risk of Diabetes.

Today, I read an interesting article about the link between Diabetes and Diet

 https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/press-releases/plant-based-diet-reduced-diabetes-risk-hu-satija/

Breakfast - Nutritious and Delicious Plant-based Smoothies

Unprocessed Vegan food(plant-based) is very good for our health and environment. With some planning, it is possible for everyone in the family to eat wholesome plant-based food. Start your day with fruit smoothies...

For breakfast, indulge in delicious FRUITS. Make smoothies with seasonal fruits.  Make smoothies with banana, dates and mango. You can also make "green smoothies" by blending few curry leaves, ripe mango and banana. If you don't have curry leaves, you can make smoothies with spinach, banana or strawberries. There are so many choices...

Recently, I read few interesting articles about nutritious plant-based food.

1. https://www.indiacurrents.com/articles/2016/05/12/whole-food-plant-based-lifestyle

2. https://sharan-india.org/recipes/green-smoothies/

3. http://kamalkitchen.com/green-smoothie-recipe-beginners-newbies/

4. http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-7956/5-delicious-green-smoothies-for-beginners.html

Arab Vegan in Bahrain

Today, I met an interesting person - Nada! Nada grew up in a meat-eating household. Now, she thrives on healthy vegan diet for her health and our beautiful environment...

Her blog - One Arab Vegan is brimming with lots of middle-eastern vegan recipes. Tasty vegan soups, salads, and sweets from Mediterranean cuisine. I hope youngsters from Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh , Pakistan, Afghanistan , Sri Lanka, Malaysia and India are inspired to go VEGAN after reading the blog - Arab Vegan.

Please visit the amazing blog - Arab Vegan , at
http://www.onearabvegan.com/

Muscle - Building Vegan Recipes

When you tell people that you are a Vegan, the first question they ask you is , "Where do you get your proteins?" Well, I get my proteins from Channa masala, tasty Sambars, and sprouted salads . Sometimes I get proteins from Tofu, and  Tempeh curry. And occasionally, I like to eat quinoa with vegetable curries. The list is endless, so many plant-based dishes are full of proteins.

Today, I found great recipes brimming with proteins. High-protein Breakfast shake, Chickpea salad and Tofu salad. You should visit this website http://www.mensfitness.com/nutrition/healthy-recipes/11-muscle-building-vegan-recipes/slide/2

Delicious Mangoes for Summer

I love summer, because it's mango season! I love mangoes, and I never get bored of eating delicious mangoes. In Atlanta we get good mangoes, but I still miss Indian mangoes.

Growing up in Bengaluru, I used to eat mangoes every day during summer. Raspuri, and  Malgoba, are my favorite mangoes.  I immensely enjoy eating sliced ripe mangoes with rice,  and sambar.
In short, I can have mangoes for my breakfast, lunch and dinner!

Like me, my son also enjoys eating mangoes. Today, I made him a smoothie, using mango, strawberries and a banana. In the evening, he ate sliced mango for "Snacks".

Mango rice is a traditional recipe from Karnataka, made with raw mango. Mango pickle and mango chutney are also so tangy and delicious. Some people make mango burfis , but I have not tried making it...


Here are some yummy mango recipes...

1. http://www.vegetariantimes.com/recipe/mango-and-black-bean-salad/

2. http://www.veganricha.com/recipe-pages/vegan-mango-curry-tofu

3. http://www.meatlessmonday.com/recipes/vietnamese-mango-salad/

4. http://www.veganricha.com/2014/08/vegan-mango-burfi-mango-fudge-bars-indian-recipe.html

5. http://www.rakskitchen.net/2015/03/thai-green-mango-salad-recipe-vegetarian.html

6. http://www.divinetaste.com/archives/raw-mango-chutney-mavinkai-gojju/

Beautiful Bollywood Ladies Go Vegan

Beautiful movie stars from Indian Cinema are loving plant-based fare. Kangana Ranaut , Ayesha Takia, Neha Dhupia,  and Jacqueline Fernandez feel so good about vegan diet. I'm sure thousands of Indians are inspired to go vegan...

Kangana Ranaut grew up eating chicken biryani, now she makes "vegan biryani" using the same spices, and masala blends used for making chicken biryani!

Bollywood's greatest star - Amitabh Bachchan is  a vegetarian. He finishes his meals with a dollop of yogurt. Amitabh Bachchan still acts in movies - he is around 73 years old. He still blogs every day...

I hope Amitabh Bachchan becomes a vegan. I'm sure millions of Indians will go Vegan if Amitabh Bachchan becomes vegan. I hope someone explains that modern "dairy products" causes pain and suffering for millions of cows in India and across the world.

Here are few interesting articles about movies stars and vegan diet...

1. http://www.petaindia.com/blog/8-bollywood-superstars-who-eat-vegan/

2. http://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/food-wine/thinking-of-going-vegan-listen-to-what-ayesha-takia-has-to-say-2811144/

3. http://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/food-wine/aamir-khan-on-litti-chokha-seekh-kababs-and-the-poison-in-our-food-the-foodie-interview-2796360/

4. http://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/food-wine/kangana-ranaut-the-foodie-interview-coffee-vegan-chaat-2774376-foodie/

5. http://www.thehealthsite.com/news/vidya-balan-shares-her-favourite-vegan-recipe-kerala-pachadi/

Russell Simmons -Vegan Celebrity

Russell Simmons is an American entrepreneur and best-selling author. He is into meditation, Yoga, Ahimsa (Non-violence) , Animal Rights and World Peace. Few Days ago, I read, The Happy Vegan written by Russell Simmons. The Happy Vegan is convincing people to eat plant-based food for better health, and environment. I'm sure in a couple of years, the number of vegans and vegetarians will increase by many-folds  in United States after reading, The Happy Vegan...

Here are some links to know more about Russell Simmons

1. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MGarHz6RRWg

2. http://www.forksoverknives.com/the-happy-vegan-mogul-russell-simmons-on-how-his-lifestyle-fuels-his-success/

3. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/vegan-russell-simmons-james-hamblin_us_56b4fdade4b01d80b2463638

4. http://www.vegetariantimes.com/article/one-on-one-with-russell-simmons/

Yummy Vegan Food For Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day to all Moms! Moms work so hard, and in America , Mother's Day is celebrated with gifts, gift cards, greeting cards , flowers and eating out...

My son gave me a beautiful card for Mother's Day. I did not cook today, we went to Krishna Vilas(Vegetarian restaurant) in Cumming, Atlanta and ate lots of yummy vegan food...

If you are planning to cook for Mother's Day, here are some great links...

1. http://www.veganricha.com/2014/05/22-vegan-mothers-day-recipes-gluten.html

2. http://www.bustle.com/articles/152890-20-vegan-mothers-day-recipes-to-treat-the-greatest-woman-in-your-life

3. http://www.freep.com/story/life/food/recipes/2016/05/07/mom-chef-erika-boyd-vegan-soul/84038724/

4. http://www.care2.com/greenliving/5-vegan-brunch-ideas-for-mothers-day.html

Ancient Greek Vegetarians

Many centuries ago, numerous people in civilzed countries such as Greece, strongly felt that "eating meat " was WRONG...

Hundreds of years ago, many great Poets, Writers, Philosophers, Physcians, and Mathematicians spread the concept of Vegetarianism...

Today, I read an enlightening article about Vegetarianism in Ancient Greece.

Here is the link to the article, http://www.all-creatures.org/murti/art-ancient-Greek.html

Vegans in Canada

Veganism is growing rapidly across United States and Canada. In United States, nearly 7% of the population thrives on Vegan diet! In Canada, around 5% of the population is vegetarian , and nearly 33% of the population is eating less meat. In short, every day millions of Americans and Canadians are trying to eat less meat and  dairy products...

Thanks to Peta and Humane Society, Americans and Canadians are now aware of the suffering of millions of animals in cages and sheds.

Here are few interesting links...
https://www.humanesociety.com/

http://www.dietitians.ca/Your-Health/Nutrition-A-Z/Vegetarian-Diets/Eating-Guidelines-for-Vegans.aspx

http://news.nationalpost.com/life/food-drink/super-fresh-vegan-recipes-bbq-burger-quinoa-battered-onion-rings-and-a-spicy-citrus-vitamin-c-elixir

http://veg.ca/

https://www.facebook.com/torontoveg

https://www.eatrightontario.ca/en/Articles/Vegetarianism/Four-steps-to-a-balanced-vegan-eating-pattern.aspx

Eat Plant-based (Vegan) Food , and Save the Earth!

It's Earth Day, and millions of compassionate people across the world want to save our Earth from deforestation, poverty, and pollution. It is really good to know that everyone from students to farmers and business owners to factory workers want to protect and save our beautiful Earth. I have been reading so many articles related to Earth Day, and most of the environmentalists are urging people to follow vegan diet(plant-based diet)...

Here are some tips how you can save our Earth on Earth Day and every day...

1. Eat Plant-based (Vegan diet) every day. If it is impossible to to Vegan, atleast go without meat and dairy products twice or thrice in a week. If you are a vegan, please talk about the benefits of vegan diet to your friends and relatives.

2.  Plant trees , and grow herbs such as mint , cilantro. If possible grow tomatoes, chillies, and carrots. http://www.sunset.com/garden/fruits-veggies/

3. Think 20 times before buying fashion accessories, and  decorative items. In short, buy only when you really need items! http://sfenvironmentkids.org/resources/natural5.htm

http://www.ck12.org/book/CK-12-Earth-Science-Concepts-For-High-School/section/12.19/

4. Conserve water. Conserve electricity .Take out all the plugs from plug points even after switching them off. http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation-now/2015/04/22/earth-day-water-conservation-tips/25957005/
http://www.treehugger.com/htgg/how-to-go-green-water.html


5. Carpool or take Public Transportation for work.
http://greenglobaltravel.com/2015/04/16/45-going-green-tips-for-travelers-earth-day/

6. Volunteer to clean parks and beaches. Volunteer in hospitals, libraries and schools.
https://www.volunteer.gov/ in United States

http://www.cry.org/what-to-do/gallery.html  India
http://www.ivolunteer.in/view_all_opportunities.html  India

Dr. Sailesh Rao - Vegan Environmentalist

Dr. Sailesh Rao is an amazing person involved in noble cause. He is passionately trying to protect our beautiful Earth.  Today, Global warming is taking a toll on our Earth and scientists feel that life on Earth will be very difficult in coming years...

Nearly a decade ago, Dr. Sailesh Rao heard a talk about Global Warming by Al Gore. It was a period of Epiphany for Dr. Sailesh Rao, when he heard the degrading condition of our Earth.  Dr Rao quit his engineering job, and started Climate Healers in Arizona.

Climate Healers is involved in healing the bruised Earth. Clean air and reforestation is the primary goal of Climate Healers. Today, due to hard work of Climate Healers, you can see millions of trees thriving in Rajasthan , India.

Dr. Sailesh Rao believes that it is possible to combat global warming if everyone thrives on plant-based diet (vegan diet).   Dr.Rao also feels that shopping once year is a great idea to save our Planet!

Here are some interesting links..

1. http://responsibleeatingandliving.com/favorites/sailesh-krishna-rao-climate-healers/

2. http://www.climatehealers.org/

3. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5G4RbwSHUOA

4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-PgMETKrQD4

5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=09K1kMM1tKE

6. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n3B_UX4Kz6M

Food Revolution Network

What we eat every day has enormous impact on our health, environment, economy, community and farmers. It is really important to eat wholesome nutritious food ...

These days, numerous food items is brimming with flavors, chemicals,  pesticides, and most of the fruits and vegetables are "GMO".  John Robbins and Ocean Robbins want to make our food  nutritious and wholesome. They are involved in helping farmers, communities and trying their best to help everyone from children to farmers in United States and across the world to eat wholesome nutritious fare...

Food Revotion Network is a great organization engaged in noble work. If you want know about farmers, supermarkets, organic farming,  healthy food items, environment, clean food, amazing health tips, and global warming, then you should visit http://foodrevolution.org/about/ and
https://www.facebook.com/foodrevolutionnetwork/

2016 - United Nations International Year of Pulses

Lentils, beans and peas belong to the group, Pulses .  Pulses are edible seeds of plants in the legume family. Every day millions of people in India, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri lanka, get their "Proteins" from variety of lentils and beans.

Pulses are rich in protein and fibre. They are also rich in iron, pottasium, magnesium, and zinc. United Nations is trying to create awareness of the "Powerful Pulses", by designating 2016, as the United Nations International Year of Pulses. https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/iyp2016

Growing pulses require less water compared to raising cows, chickens and pigs for meat.  Yes, World Hunger can be eradicated if everyone thrives on plant-based diet. In short, United Nations is urging people to eat lentils and beans every day. Many Americans and Canadians are taking, Pulse Pledge, to consume pulses every week!

Indian cuisine is brimming with numerous tasty and nutritious lentils and beans dishes.  Every day I cook Indian dishes, and most of the dishes - Sambar ( thick Toor dal and vegetables stew), Kootu (channa dal or moong dal with vegetables), and Channa masala is made up of lentils, and beans.

During winter, I often make lentil soup for my family. I also like Black bean soup. Black bean salad is also my favorite dish. My friends make lentil burgers...

Here are some interesting websites for lentils and beans recipes...

1. http://www.veganricha.com/category/burger

2. http://www.theppk.com/2011/08/chana-masala/

3. http://www.fao.org/pulses-2016/en/

4. http://plantbaseddietitian.com/mediterraneanlentils/

5. http://www.forksoverknives.com/recipes/indian-curry-lentils/

6. http://www.undispatch.com/the-un-wants-you-to-know-that-lentils-can-save-your-life/

7. http://holycowvegan.net/2015/12/dal-tadka.html

Plant-based Proteins are Powerful

I was recently reading an article about Proteins in Costco magazine. I came across the sentence, "Start your day with Plants" in that enlightening article. Many decades ago, Americans assumed that protein is available only if they eat meat. Nowadays, everyone from doctors to smart moms are saying that plant-based proteins are good for health. Even United Nations is urging people to ditch meat and consume lentils, beans and legumes for healthy community and healthy Earth...

Peas, brown rice and hemp are excellent source of proteins. I love to start my day by drinking Banana smoothie - blending banana, chopped walnuts, vegan protein powder, and chia seeds. I often make Adai (thick rice and lentil pancakes) using brown rice, channa dal and tuvar dal.

I read an interesting article , Protein Power for Vegetarians in an Indian newspaper. Here is the link
http://www.livemint.com/Leisure/DMQF96cPafNx0dIN8JoO7H/Protein-power-for-vegetarians.html

Here is the nutritious recipe for Vegan protein balls, http://www.thedailymeal.com/recipes/vegan-protein-balls-recipe

Here is another interesting article about Proteins, http://www.manchesterjournal.com/health/ci_29685192/tips-getting-protein-vegan-vegetarian-diet

With some planning, it is really easy to get plant-based protein in your diet...
https://www.vrg.org/nutrition/protein.php

Richa Hingle , Indian - American Vegan Food Blogger

Richa Hingle blogs about delicious and nutritious vegan dishes in the blog - Vegan Richa. The blog Vegan Richa inspires people to try plant-based fare (vegan fare). Richa is the author of the amazing vegan cookbook, Vegan Richa's Indian Kitchen. You can find delicious recipes for vegan gulab jamun , and vegan ras malai.

In an interview Richa says, "I chose to be vegan when I realized how I was giving profound love and compassion to one animal (my adopted dog) and causing death, and eating another animal or animal product,” .

Richa says ,“Meat and dairy industries are not only responsible for torture and death of 59 billion animals per year, but they also affect the environment, the planet, and one’s own health. Animal agriculture is the leading producer of greenhouse gasses causing climate change, much more than fossil fuels.” You can read the full interview here, http://www.india.com/food-2/food-blogger-richa-hingle-on-creating-vegan-recipes-for-the-indian-american-audience-1034882/

Richa is also involved in improving the global community. She supports Karuna Society, Wildlife SOS ,  and Asha For Education .

You will be tempted to try Vegan Diet, when you visit Vegan Richa,
http://www.veganricha.com/

April (Earth Month) , Plant-based Fare to Protect Our Earth!

April is all about thinking about ways to protect our beautiful Earth. Everyone from scholars to environmentalist and students to celebrities are coming up with wonderful ideas to save our Earth from Global Warming, deforestation, air pollution, and water pollution.

Eating Plant-based food(vegan food) every day is a great way to protect our Earth...

Other ways to protect our Earth is to buy less stuff, and recycle...

Here are some great articles about ways to help our Earth...

1. https://u.osu.edu/mancuso33hseportfolio/2016/03/08/scholars-earth-month-food-water-themed-changes-you-can-do-to-help/

2. http://health.usnews.com/health-news/blogs/eat-run/2015/04/03/5-ways-to-green-your-plate-for-earth-month

3. https://www.downtoearth.org/go-veggie/environment/top-10-reasons

Vegans in Mumbai

Mumbai (Bombay) is one of the biggest city in India. I have never been to Mumbai, but the word "Mumbai" conjurs the images of beautiful sea, sky scrappers, colorful bangles, busy streets, creativity and Bollywood.

Mumbai is awash with educated and smart people. Many people are making smart choice - they are going Vegan!

Here are some links which prove that the number of vegans will increase every year in Mumbai...

1. http://www.mid-day.com/articles/food-is-mumbai-ready-to-go-vegan/16846158

2. https://www.facebook.com/veganbites/

3. http://www.dnaindia.com/mumbai/report-mumbai-bandra-event-advocates-veganism-2194886

4. http://www.mid-day.com/articles/health-special-how-to-go-vegan-in-mumbai/16405190

5. http://www.thegreenstove.com/

It is Time to Give Up Leather

Leather bags, leather shoes, leather skirts, leather pants and everything made from leather causes immense pain and suffering for millions of cows, dogs and sheep. Leather factories cause water pollution and air pollution. In India and Bangladesh, thousands of kids and adults are exposed to toxic chemicals in leather industries. So, it is time to give up LEATHER...

Today, I read few interesting articles about "VEGAN LEATHER"

1. http://www.theguardian.com/fashion/2016/mar/13/is-it-time-to-give-up-leather-animal-welfare-ethical-lucy-siegle

2. http://www.vogue.com/13387466/best-vegan-leather-bags-shopping/


3. http://www.veganfashionblog.com/

4. http://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/fashion/advice/g3616/the-touch-the-feel-of-pleather-1/

Today is World Water Day - Go Vegan to Conserve Water

Water,Water, Everywhere!

Most of us take clean water for granted. Today, water is the most precious natural resource.
World Health Organization estimates that about a quarter of the world's population drinks contaminated water. Thousands of new born babies die every year, as hospitals don't have clean water in Africa.

According to some surveys, Livestock industry uses lots of water to raise animals for milk and meat. Growing fruits, vegetables , beans and lentils require less water compared to raise chickens , pigs and cows for meat. 168 gallons of water is required to produce one pound of corn, and 108 gallons of water is required to produce  one pound of wheat. 12, 009 gallons of water is required to produce one pound of beef.

March 22 is World Water Day.  One of the most easiest way to conserve water is to thrive on vegan diet(plant-based diet).  Across the world , It is really so easy to thrive on vegan diet with some planning...

Here are some enlightening articles about water.
1. http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/world-water-day-2016-what-happens-when-you-dont-have-clean-water-a6946026.html

2. http://vegnews.com/articles/page.do?pageId=4425&catId=3

3. http://environment.nationalgeographic.com/environment/freshwater/water-conservation-tips/

Vegans in Stanford University

Stanford University is awash with smart students. Last year, Stanford University was voted most vegan-friendly college in United States. According to Stanford's website , "Vegetarians and vegans can enjoy a full menu at all Stanford dining halls, including soups, side dishes, salads, and desserts."

Stanford PAW (People for Animal Welfare), is very active organization. Vegan students often distribute - benefits of going vegan booklets to students. They screen enlightening documentaries such as Earthlings, and Forks Over Knives. Stanford PAW is slowly influencing other students to go VEGAN!

Today, I read an interesting article - Much ado about eating meat in , The Stanford Daily.  Bruce Friedrich beautifully explains about the consequences of consuming meat on human beings and environment. Read that interesting article,

http://www.stanforddaily.com/2016/03/07/me-ay-a-rebuttal-on-the-ethics-of-eating-meat/

Vegan Cheese in America

Americans love Cheese. You can find cheese in burgers, soups and salads. Toddlers snack on cheese...

Today, vegans and lactose intolerant people are enjoying wide variety of vegan cheese.  Recently, I read few interesting articles about vegan cheese.

Here are the links for the articles.

http://www.sciencefriday.com/articles/vegan-cheese-coming-to-a-platter-near-you/

http://www.pressherald.com/2015/06/10/vegetarian-kitchen-vegan-cheese-makes-some-say-i-cant-believe-its-not-dairy/

http://www.foodandwine.com/blogs/2016/01/01/surrender-to-vegan-cheese-in-2016

Vegan Flatbreads From India

Indian cuisine, especially North Indian cuisine is awash with tasty flatbreads. These days I'm making variety of flatbreads for my family.  Recently, I made Pudina Paratha (Mint flatbread), Koki (Onion flatbread) , Masala Paratha( Spicy flatbread) and the famous Aloo Paratha (Potato flatbread) .

If you like Indian flatbreads and enjoy cooking, then you should try making it!

Thanks to so many amazing food bloggers, Youtube and Chefs, I have access to some delicious recipes at the click of a mouse button. I made Pudina Paratha by following Sanjay Thumma's recipe
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p1E5hPCCEmk . I used vegetable oil instead of butter, and the Pudina Paratha was so tasty...

For Koki , I followed the recipe from the website, Sindhi Rasoi. Here also, when the recipe called for  ghee, I used vegetable oil. I really liked the texture of Koki  -it was a bit crunchy!
Here is the recipe link , http://sindhirasoi.com/2008/05/sindhi-koki/

For Masala Paratha and Aloo Paratha, I followed the recipe from Sailaja's blog, Sailusfood. Sailufood is awesome. If you like authentic South Indian food , then you should visit the blog, Sailusfood.
Here are the links for Masala Paratha and Aloo Paratha...

http://www.sailusfood.com/2016/01/26/masala-paratha-recipe/

http://www.sailusfood.com/2011/04/29/aloo-paratha/

Leo Tolstoy and Vegetarianism

Today, I read a thought-provoking article regarding  meat-eaters and Leo Tolstoy.  Leo Tolstoy, a great writer and Philosopher was a vegetarian.  Nearly a century ago,  Leo Tolstoy influenced thousands of people to stop eating meat. Leo Tolstoy led a simple life, but millions of people were influenced by him...

I'm sure Leo Tolstoy would thrive on plant-based diet (Vegan Diet), if he were alive today...

Read that interesting article here.
http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/blink/talk/tolstoys-chicken-and-the-expanding-circle/article8077778.ece

Vegan Athletes are Olympic Champions

In United States, many athletes are going Vegan, after learning about the horrific condition of cows, pigs and chickens.  Thanks to everything from internet to Youtube and Documentaries to Animal Rights organizations, the concept of  " Vegan Diet " is growing every day...

Today , I read a very interesting article regarding Vegan athletes in a magazine, Teen Vogue.

You can read the inspiring article - How Athletes Are Going Vegan and Staying Strong

http://www.teenvogue.com/story/athletes-becoming-vegan-trend

Anand Siva - Earth Loving Vegan

Anand Siva is an amazing person.  Anand Siva cares about animals, birds and our beautiful Earth. He became a Vegan in 2011, after he came to know the cruel condition of animals across India and the world.  Last year, his daughter had a "Vegan Wedding"!

Anand Siva  travels widely  across India, and finds no problem in finding vegan food. He frequently gives talks about "Vegan Lifestyle". I hope many Indians are inspired to thrive on un-processed vegan diet after listening to Anand Siva's talk...

Anand Siva is also active on social media,
https://twitter.com/anandsiva

Here are some interesting interviews with Anand Siva...

1. http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-metroplus/the-vegan-choice/article8210735.ece

2. http://mumbaimag.com/vegan-wedding/

Try Vegan Diet in January

Many people want to eat vegan food, but they feel it is not possible to thrive on vegan diet (Plant-based diet) . With some planning, it is really possible to eat plant-based food every day...

Across the world, so many people are trying to eat vegan food every day. You may be in Australia , France, Sri lanka, England or Pakistan, it is really possible to eat nutritious plant-based fare every day...

Try Vegan diet in January and February, Visit http://www.veganuary.com/products/ 

Try Unprocessed Vegan diet for your health. Protect our beautiful Earth by eating delicious and nutritious plant-based food (vegan food ) every day...

Vegan diet is gentle on our body and our environment...

Why you should go Vegan?

http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/features/vegan-reasons-health-diet-food-a6713756.html

http://www.rd.com/health/healthy-eating/going-vegan/

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/149636.php

http://www.express.co.uk/life-style/diets/549526/Vegan-diet-benefits

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/Stop-animal-suffering-Veganuary-strikes-a-chord-among-Chennaiites/articleshow/50609574.cms

http://www.livescience.com/53542-more-climate-negotiations-addressing-meat-consumption.html

Raw Vegan Diet

Vegan diet is good.  Raw Vegan diet is even better than vegan diet. Cooking kills many enzymes and nutrients, so thriving on a "raw vegan diet " is great for our health...

These days many people are eating "raw food " for health reasons. I love my food to be warm and sometimes hot, so I feel that I can never thrive on a "raw vegan diet"...

Raw vegan diet has numerous benefits. You may get hooked to "Raw vegan diet" if you try...

If you are in India, read http://www.rawrasoi.com/ and https://www.facebook.com/rawveganrecipes/

Other interesting articles regarding "raw vegan diet",

http://www.marieclaire.co.uk/blogs/548651/raw-food-diet-the-best-diet-plans-and-recipes.html

http://www.business-standard.com/article/specials/on-a-raw-vegan-diet-115050100319_1.html

http://www.thisrawsomeveganlife.com/p/recipes.html#.Vqk3stxBTIU

http://rawveganpower.com/recipes/raw-vegan-dinner-recipes/

Gokul Restaurant in Hassan, Karnataka

We had recently been to Hassan, India . Hassan is close to Belur and Halebedu, famous for ancient temples.  The architecture and sculptures is breathtaking in Channakeshava temple. If you visit India, and you are passionate about ancient arts and history,  you should visit Belur and Halebedu in Hassan district, Karnataka state.

During our visit to Hassan, we had breakfast in Gokul restaurant. Gokul restaurant is a vegetarian restaurant, and I saw so many delicious and traditional vegan dishes from Karrnataka cuisine.

I ate Akki rottis( rice flat bread) with tomato gojju. The akki rottis were so soft and tasty. My husband and MIL ate idli and sambar along with crispy vadas. My son relished eating Aloo paratha (potato stuffed flat bread). In short, Gokul restaurant is a paradise for vegans and vegetarians.

https://www.facebook.com/hotelgokulhassan/

4 Reasons To Go Vegan in 2016

1.  Vegan Diet (Plant-based diet) is good for health:  According to American Heart Association, Vegan diet can be healthful and nutritionally sound if they’re carefully planned to include essential nutrients. Many studies have shown that vegetarians and vegans  to have a lower risk of obesity, diabetes and cancer.

2.  Vegan Diet is best for the Environment  : Meat and dairy industries causes lot of air and water pollution. According to the Livestock Long Shadow report from United Nations, the Livestock sector - meat and dairy industries, is the major cause for global warming.

United Nations is urging people to eat less meat and dairy products. In United States, Meatless Monday has become so popular.

3. World Hunger Can Be Eradicated : According to Peta,  Every 12 seconds, a kid dies due to hunger. 925 million people don't have enough to eat. 

According to many scientists, Meat production is a wasteful use of the planet's limited resources .  40% of grain crops are going to feed livestock and fish. It is most inefficient with intensive beef farming, where it has been shown that just 2.5% of the feed given to cattle emerges as calories for our consumption.

http://aplus.com/a/un-end-world-hunger-cut-down-meat

http://thehill.com/regulation/237767-vegan-diet-best-for-planet-federal-report-says

4. Suffering of Animals : Every day millions of cows, pigs and chickens endure lot of pain and suffering in crowded sheds. In short, the condition of animals is heart wrenching across the world. You will stop consuming meat and milk products if you see Earthlings and other eye-opening documentaries. Going vegan is a great way to stop the suffering of innocent animals.

You can  see Earthlings, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VlNXG1_gheI

http://freefromharm.org/farm-animal-welfare/the-new-documentary-short-from-farm-to-fridge-presents-the-problem-and-solution-to-factory-farming/

http://www.peta.org/living/entertainment/animal-rights-movies-watch-online/