I Am Grateful

With Thanksgiving around the corner, I couldn't resist this apt title. I AM GRATEFUL: Recipes and Lifestyle of Cafe Gratitude is a collection of recipes (and philosophy) from San Fransisco's raw foods restaurant, Cafe Gratitude.

Author Terces Engelhart takes you through her journey to a healthier lifestyle and ultimately into the world of raw foods and opening her own restaurant with her partner Matthew. She is very open about her struggles with disordered eating, and it's inspiring to hear about her transformation.

The recipes require the basic equipment; food processor blender, and dehydrator, and the only food I'm not familiar with is Irish Moss, which is a seaweed used for thickening and texture. I'm not put off by unusual ingredients at all, but it might be hard to find for some. There are color photos throughout the book and positive affirmations are the titles of each recipe, such as I Am Energetic, I Am Grateful, etc.

I'm particularly excited to try the flat bread and cracker recipes, and the Strawberry Shortcake looks amazing--as soon as strawberries are in season again, I'm all over it. There is also a pumpkin pie recipe that might find its way into my Thanksgiving feast. I love the inclusion of juice pulp on many of the recipes--what a great way to minimize waste while maximizing nutrition.

I think this would make a refreshing hostess gift if you are going to someone's house for the Thanksgiving.

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