tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44841540507322139852024-03-09T18:46:01.539-08:00For The Love of FoodLeAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01267399244372721002noreply@blogger.comBlogger64125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4484154050732213985.post-56068891825914367962011-12-04T18:40:00.000-08:002011-12-07T19:03:19.071-08:00Late Thanksgiving Post.Hello there!<br /><br />I'm getting back into the blog swing of things and I tend to forget to make posts right after I have delicious meals. I'll get better. I promise! So with that out of the way I wanted to share my first ever Thanksgiving meal... even though I've been vegan for 3 and 1/2 years! (I usually just get drunk with my little brother and laugh my head off!)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Clockwise from the left: Tofurkey roast, garlic kale potatoes<br />with mushroom gravy, collard greens, sweet potatoes, white<br />rice and Mom's homemade green bean casserole in the center.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><center><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_4970.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_4970.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Everything was so delicious! I actually strayed from being a holiday lazy ass and cooked a full meal! Well, I cooked some of it. I had planned on cooking a lot more but then my mom informed me that she'd be making plenty of vegan stuff so I'd have lots to eat.<br /></div><br />Garlic/Kale Potatoes<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_4965.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_4965.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Homemade Green Bean Casserole made by my Mom!<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_4962.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_4962.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">And no get together is complete without my favorite coconut lemon cake from Veganomicon. Can't seem to get enough of it! I usually make a bundt but I forgot it at home and had to settle for my mom's springform pans. Note to self: Get some of those!<br /></div><br />Coconut Lemon cake w/Lemon Glaze topped w/ Coconut.<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_4961.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_4961.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Vegan Chocolate Chip Pumpkin muffins (made by my sister!)<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_4952.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_4952.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Was glad I got to eat something this year. I also took home a crapload of leftovers! Lasted for like 4 days! Thats all I ate! I would eat this way daily if I had the time. It'd be worth the weight gain! Hahaha...<br /><br /><br />-Lee<br /></div></center><br /></div>LeAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01267399244372721002noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4484154050732213985.post-80734620178839296842011-11-05T14:15:00.000-07:002011-11-05T14:54:53.384-07:00So long to Atomic #7...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.atomicnumber7.com/images/logo_with_glow.png"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 532px; height: 335px;" src="http://www.atomicnumber7.com/images/logo_with_glow.png" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />It's strange how I worked on this blog for a few years and then all of a sudden stopped. Let's see if I can end this craziness right here and now!<br /><br />I'd like to dedicate this blog post to a place I will dearly miss. About a year and a half ago a friend texted me that there was a new ice cream shop in town that did made to order vegan ice cream. I couldn't believe it! How exciting! The only shop of it's kind and it was about a mile from my job. Here are some of the wonderful vegan creations I was lucky enough to enjoy:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Peanut butter banana flavored almond milk ice<br />cream w/penguin coat, aka chocolate shell.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=pb-banana.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/pb-banana.jpg" alt="vegan,ice cream,chocolate" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />PB Coconut milk ice cream w/ cookie dough, vegan caramel and<br />penguin coat. My favorite creation of them all!!!<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=cocopbcookiewafflesbcpeng.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 450px; height: 337px;" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/cocopbcookiewafflesbcpeng.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />PB Coconut milk ice cream w/ Penguin. Can you tell I love PB?<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=cocopbcookiedough.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 450px; height: 599px;" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/cocopbcookiedough.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Magda's Mango coconut almond milk ice cream w/peaches.<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=A7-2.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 450px; height: 337px;" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/A7-2.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Vanilla almond milk ice cream with hot fudge.<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=A7-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 450px; height: 337px;" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/A7-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">AND NOW, CUPCAKES!!<br /><br /><br />Samoa cupcake (the best ever!)<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=samoacupcake.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/samoacupcake.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><br />Double Chocolate cupcake.<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=doublechococupcake.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/doublechococupcake.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Vanilla almond sugar cookie cupcake and chocolate peanut<br />butter cupcake.<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_3202.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_3202.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />And finally, My birthday cupcakes from my good friend Amy.<br />Coffee flavored cupcake and chocolate mint cupcake. So good!<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=bdaycupcakes.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/bdaycupcakes.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Goodbye to Ginger and all of the wonderful girls of Atomic 7. I am so thankful that I had a place to go to, even for a short amount of time. Maybe one day Atomic #7 will re-open and I can continue my trustworthy treat addiction. I hope I see you all around!!!<br /></div></div>LeAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01267399244372721002noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4484154050732213985.post-70545311876043683342011-04-14T14:46:00.000-07:002011-04-15T17:24:19.621-07:00Seriously?<a href="http://www.quarrygirl.com/2011/04/13/rant-veg-news-is-putting-the-meat-into-vegan-issues/">Check out this Quarry Girl post!</a><br /><br />You would think that a magazine strictly for vegans would know better. <br />LeAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01267399244372721002noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4484154050732213985.post-86046376446814294932010-06-02T23:17:00.000-07:002010-06-03T00:28:49.062-07:00Another Trip to Red Velvet Cafe.<center><div style="text-align: left;">A few posts back I gave a follow-up to a comment about Red Velvet Cafe here in Las Vegas that an anonymous reader expressed. I didn't have the same experience at the Cafe that they did. I'm bummed they didn't get the treatment that I get. The last time I went, they were still pleasant, but I felt forgotten. So, my roommate asked me to go along with her for lunch a few days ago.<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Spicy "Chicken" Wrap:<br /></div></div><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_0219.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_0219.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Again, we received good service, our food came fast, the people that worked there were really nice, we joked around, la la la... It seems to be hit or miss on when they will disappoint. The one thing that I've noticed is that if it's not busy they seem to handle themselves well. I've been there when it was jam packed and almost dead. They don't seem to be very well off if there are too many people looking to eat. Like I said before... I'm not going out of my way to go there, but I won't write them off completely.<br /></div><br />Vegan Red Velvet Cake:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_0223.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_0223.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I will say this... This cake makes me want to head my ass over there every damn day. New mission: Find vegan red velvet cake that tops this!<br /></div></center>LeAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01267399244372721002noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4484154050732213985.post-82724168143956785172010-05-30T11:56:00.000-07:002010-05-30T11:57:27.991-07:00My Trip to Washington!In early May I hopped a plane and headed to Blaine, WA to visit my good friends Langley and Yahtil. First, let me just send out another giant THANK YOU to them for allowing me to come stay with them for 8 glorious days. I cannot wait until I take another trip up. You guys are AWESOME!!!<br /><br /><center><div style="text-align: left;">Now, on to the food and the reason I gained weight while away. (So worth it!)<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br />Potato and Leek soup in a sourdough bread bowl... YIKES! ::drool::<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=102_4383.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/102_4383.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Yahtil made this from scratch and it was absolutely amazing. I had this the second night I was in town. My first time ever having leek. Must have more often.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Potato/onion soup:<br /></div></div></div></div><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_0122.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_0122.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Yet another wonderful creation by Yahtil. I think I'm now addicted to bread bowls. I always appreciate my meat eater friends that go out of their way to make something that I can eat. That's some serious love right there! Some seriously tasty foodage as well. I wish I could re-live these 2 soups.<br /></div><br />Need I say more?:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_0136.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_0136.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">A nice, hot soy latte from Woods Coffee. Nice place! Apparently it's a Pacific Northwest chain. Wish we had it here.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Soy Latte:<br /></div></div><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_2420.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_2420.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">And look how cute it is from the outside. This location that we went to was right on the ocean. We sat and drank coffee on the water and it was magic!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Woods Coffee:<br /></div></div><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_2424.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_2424.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;">I love you, Clif Bars!:<br /></div></div><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_0125.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_0125.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I hate to say that I live on Clif Bars, but some days I am so wrapped up in the crazy that I have to have these just so I have something to hold me over until I get a good meal in. Well, while I was in WA I was able to find these 4 flavors that I didn't even know existed! I bought like 3 of each and brought them home with me.</div><br />Black Bean Burgers:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_0070.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_0070.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">These weren't too bad. I've had some nasty vegan burgers before and these weren't a total disappointment. I still prefer my homemade black bean burgers over these any day though.<br /></div><br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_0073.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_0073.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Vegetable Soup:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_0066.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_0066.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br />This was yet ANOTHER Yahtil vegan creation. No bread bowl, but I ate it so fast I barely noticed.<br /></div><br />BLOOM!!!:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_0045.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_0045.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br />This I was insanely excited for! This was my first trip to an all vegan establishment. Langley had told me that there was a vegan restaurant in Bellingham and I was so grateful that I finally got the chance to go!<br /></div><br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_0044.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_0044.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Hummus w/ Veggies and Flax Crackers:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_0038.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_0038.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">This was some good hummus. I don't usually have hummus as thick as this, but that mattered not. The veggies were clean and fresh and delicious. The flax crackers were also a great addition to this spread. I want to re-eat this!<br /></div><br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_0039.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_0039.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Aaaaaaaand... the one food I had that thoroughly surprised me...<br /></div><br />BBQ Tempeh Sandwich:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_0043.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_0043.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Closer shot:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_0041.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_0041.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Why did it surprise me? Not because it was one of the best ever tempeh sandwiches I've had so far, but because it had beets on it. BEETS! I HATE BEETS! At least... I thought I hated beets. I remember hating beets my whole life. Turns out if they are made just right I really do enjoy them! They accompanied the tempeh quite well in this case. Look at that! One more food I am allowing back into my diet.<br /></div><br />My new addiction... HARD CIDER!:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_0035.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_0035.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I was introduced to hard cider during my trip to WA. I must admit, I wasn't sure I would like it because it looked like beer and sort of smelled like beer. MUCH better than beer. Beer I don't really have a taste for. Cider has a new place in my heart. Woodchuck brand and Wyder's brand are both vegan friendly. I've tried Raspberry, pear and apple flavored and Pear is most definitely my favorite. Thanks guys!<br /><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">La Fiamma Pizza:<br /></div><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_0013.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_0013.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Pre-pizza Salad:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_0007.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_0007.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-SDOcKlafnw7-xA8_caCnaHwt1fhyphenhyphentGDkLvIK7drHRsCdRIkV4_c7vdm-u7qcM0ilR_cONYRS81OhcZB75SO4yiBqfkEDuFefspxZpQE_oWG-9TzaAjTuftcb1o_V9yHQIUDNvNoo80qB/s1600/taking+picture.jpg"><br /></a><div style="text-align: left;">We all know I'm a sucker for a good vegan pizza. And this contained yet another food I have hated my whole life... OLIVES! I barely noticed the olives on this one. there were plenty of flavores to even out the taste so I was extremely happy.<br /></div><br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_0011.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_0011.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Well, that's the majority of my pictures of the food I ate. There were many other meals that I just didn't get the chance to photograph mainly I inhaled my food before I remembered to take the pictures. I'm dying for another visit to WA.<br /><br />-Lee<br /><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></center>LeAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01267399244372721002noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4484154050732213985.post-6550703281906613852010-05-23T22:45:00.001-07:002010-05-26T13:26:08.117-07:00An anonymous comment.I received an anonymous comment on a recent post that I was kind of surprised to get. It was on a post that I put up July 20th 2009 and was referring to my <a href="http://veganelbows.blogspot.com/2009/07/red-velvet-cafe-and-more.html">visit to Red Velvet Cafe</a>. This was the comment(following the comment I will reply):<br /><br /><dl style="font-style: italic; text-align: left; font-weight: bold;" class="avatar-comment-indent" id="comments-block"><dt class="comment-author " id="c1041311160149170714"><span style="font-size:100%;">Anonymous said... </span></dt><dd class="comment-body " id="Blog1_cmt-1041311160149170714"> <p><span style="font-size:100%;"> We have been eating here since this place opened.<br /><br />At first, we were thrilled to have the kind of food so readily available to us in other big cities in which we've lived on our side of town; as a vegetarian/vegan couple it certainly seemed to most number of menu offerings in the city!<br /><br />Unfortunately, despite developing an affinity for certain favorites (the taco salad, pizzettas, certain wraps and the red velvet cake are all extremely tasty), the rest of the menu is fairly uninspired and the grilled panini sandwiches kind of mushy and flavorless. (or I should say, the flavor of the mushy bread overwhelms the ingredients within).<br /><br />The specials are ridiculously overpriced for what they are, and the prices in general are a bit high considering the scant use of organic ingredients, the overall starchy nature of most everything, and the reliance on commercial soy products for mock meats.....these things are of questionable nutritional value (other than being lower in saturated fats, cholesterol, maybe in calories) because they're highly processed forms of soy......which at that point yields a substance that may taste salty and chewy but is regarded by the body as something akin to plastic.<br /><br />In a place like L.A., only the cheap quick vegan eateries do that. It allows them to keep prices low and find a middle ground on taste, texture, and presentation. Red Velvet Cafe, however, charges up the wazoo for these things ($15.00 or more for some soy fish on brown rice with some overcooked until shriveled, thin, bland asparagus? Really?).<br /><br />Nevertheless. For the times when we were very busy and didn't want to deal with food prep (sometimes veggie food takes a lot of ingredients!) or when friends and family were in town we happily continued to frequent the place, and spent quite a lot of $$ along the way...especially when ordering the food in bulk for a party! WOW!!!$!$!$!<br /><br />What has finally killed it for us, no matter how delicious that darn cake is, or how much I long for a turkey wrap that isn't Tofurkey (much as I love and should own stock in that stuff), is the absolutely appalling service!<br /><br />NOT just when it's busy!<br /><br />ALL THE TIME!<br /><br />Starting with the chef/owner. While her husband is gracious and engaging, helpful and affable, she has never once smiled at me in all the times I've been there (what has it been now, nearly 2 years now?), which, as a fellow industry person, loyal customer, and part of what was keeping the lights on, thinks is a pretty poor excuse for manners.<br /><br />I'm in a customer-service based industry; you don't get to be crummy towards your patrons unless they get crummy with you -- and even then sometimes you're expected to take it, with that whole "customer is always right" nonsense! ;-)<br /><br />It's a bad vibe, and it's a bad look for her. I know she works long hours and has a lot on her shoulders, but that's no excuse for thinly veiled hostility or at best, diffidence to one of your early adopters and strongest supporters!<br /><br />The service there is a real paradox! The actual people are perfectly pleasant and seemingly quite intelligent. How then does a new group sit in your station after strolling through the front door of your fairly small restaurant and not get menus, water, or service for up to 15 minutes?! It's ludicrous! And, it's costing them money......a small group I'd brought walked out.<br /><br />You have to wonder after 10 minutes or more who has left RVC in a huff as my group did? That is money down the drain. If they do stay, they might not come back.<br /><br />And most tragic of all, even those of us who have tried to get used to it are despairing and MOVING ON.<br /><br />The food is not THAT spectacular to have that poor of a customer service experience, sorry.<br /><br />I will miss the grub, and even some of the people, but I will not miss being made to feel like somehow they were put upon to have to sell it and serve it to me.<br /><br />We're taking our restaurant business elsewhere. <span class="interaction-iframe-guide"></span></span> </p> </dd><dd class="comment-footer"> <span style="font-size:100%;"><span class="comment-timestamp"> <a href="http://veganelbows.blogspot.com/2009/07/red-velvet-cafe-and-more.html?showComment=1273455727660#c1041311160149170714" title="comment permalink"> May 9, 2010 6:42 PM </a></span></span></dd></dl> I wish I could have known who posted this, but they had a right to be anonymous if they chose. I posted my trip to Red Velvet last year in July. The day I went it wasn't very busy and the service we got seemed to be quite good! I left there very happy with the food that I ordered and the service we had. This was back during the renovation.<br /> <br />HOWEVER... I went back a second time during November of last year and things were a bit different. The food was pretty good still, but the restaurant was jam packed with people and it took forever (and a day) to get us seated. I noticed an older gentleman walking around and making sure people were OK and being very nice. I'm assuming he's one of the owners that you mentioned. When we finally got a table we had to wait with it a bit dirty for about 10 minutes before someone cleaned it for us. I didn't want to miss getting the table, who knows how long we would have had to wait otherwise.<br /><br />It was just me and my friend Heather. We figured out what we wanted and when they did come to take our order, 20 minutes after the table was cleaned, it seemed to be another 30 minutes before we got our food. I felt dumb because I talked her into going to this place and she liked the food OK but was upset with the service, as was I. I didn't didn't decide not to come back or anything, just decided I would only go if I was in the area and hungry.<br /><br />I attempted to go there for breakfast one morning because I was out at Red Rock with my friend Magda at around 9 am and it was pretty close and had food I could eat. They claim to serve breakfast, yet don't open until 10:30. That kinda bugged me. If you are serving breakfast, you should be open a bit earlier than that. Luckily we were on that side of town anyway so I didn't have to go out of my way to be let down. I found out they were closed on Sundays the hard way. I live in Henderson and it isn't just a short drive to what's practically Summerlin. The menu I had in my hands I got from there said they were open Sundays. Ugh...<br /><br />My roommate and a friend of hers decided yesterday to go have lunch and picked Red Velvet. I was off and had no classes so when she invited me I accepted. Luckily when we got there it wasn't busy, we got seated, got our drinks and had pretty good service this time around. I swear, Red Velvet is extremely hit or miss. It's a huge bummer to have to go through all the crap that you did with them. That really sucked and you shouldn't have been treated wrongly.<br /><br />Hit or miss places suck. I'm not writing them off completely, just not going out of my way for them. They haven't proven themselves worthy.<br /><br />Thank you so much for the comment!<br /><br />-LeeLeAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01267399244372721002noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4484154050732213985.post-41478138392735694982010-04-07T23:11:00.000-07:002010-04-07T23:41:16.124-07:00Veggie Pizza at California Pizza Kitchen.<center><div style="text-align: left;">I don't live in the most vegan friendly city. We all know that. Luckily I have a little help finding safe places to have food thanks to <a href="http://www.branberger.com/Branberger_Apps/VeganXpress.html">VeganXpress</a> iPhone app. The roommates and I wanted a day out and about and we ended up in a big shopping area here in Vegas. Someone suggested California Pizza Kitchen. I hadn't been there in about 3 years or so for obvious reasons. Luckily I used VeganXpress to find out if there were any options for me. I was happy to find that the Neapolitan crust (thin crust) is vegan, so I ordered the vegetarian without cheese. On this pizza we have:<br /></div><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_2193.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_2193.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;">-Baby broccoli<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">-Grilled Japanese eggplant<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">-Roasted corn<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">-Sliced red onions<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">-Mushrooms<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">-Sun-dried tomatoes<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">-Tomato sauce.<br /><br /><center><br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_2197.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_2197.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">It was light and pretty good tasting. It was the exact opposite of the kind of pizza I use to eat. I think had I tried I might have been able to put the entire pizza away all by myself! But it was too good not to share. Maybe next time I'll give it a shot. :o)<br /><br />-Lee<br /></div></center></div><br /></center>LeAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01267399244372721002noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4484154050732213985.post-31786667535647266092010-04-02T15:11:00.000-07:002010-04-02T15:15:08.096-07:00Miso Soup, my way.<center><br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_2185.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_2185.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I never really got into having Miso soup until I started making it myself. I played around with a bunch of different recipes. Some I liked, some I didn't. Eventually I found what I liked. I like cubes of super firm tofu and tempeh in my miso. This was perfect when it was really gloomy here in Vegas last week.<br /></div></center><br />-4 Cups Water<br />-3-4 tbsp Miso Paste<br />-1 sheet Nori (cut into small squares)<br />-1/2 block Super Firm Tofu (I used Wild Wood brand)<br />-1/2 block Tempeh<br />-2-3 cloves fresh garlic or 1/2 tbsp garlic powder<br />-1 stalk green onion (optional)<br /><br />Bring the water to boil and add miso paste. Allow the paste to fully dissolve into the water. When broth is ready add tofu, garlic, tempeh and nori. allow to simmer on medium heat for about 10 minutes to allow tofu and tempeh to soak up the flavors of the broth. Add optional green inion last after you turn off the soup.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_2187.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_2187.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />LOVE!!!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">-Lee<br /></div></div>LeAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01267399244372721002noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4484154050732213985.post-36686406225184841312010-03-30T22:20:00.000-07:002010-03-30T22:55:40.044-07:00Just a quick post.<center><div style="text-align: left;"> It's getting hot out. Hot sucks! Especially in Las Vegas. Fortunately this is my last year living here! I'm moving back to CA in October. I'm excited! I miss L.A! However, until I leave this place I must endure it's evil temperatures. Those of you who know me well know that I live for smoothies when it's hot out. When it's hot out there is nothing I want more than a nice, cold fruit smoothie.<br /></div><br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_2174.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_2174.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>Strawberry/Blueberry Smoothie<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_2178.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_2178.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I'm not a huge mock-meat fan but I found this to be quite good. Perfect for slicing up and having it as a snack on crackers.<br /><br /></div><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_2148.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_2148.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I think I'll buy this again and use it as a pizza topping. It honestly tastes better than any pepperoni I remember. My roommate and I ate half of it pretty quickly. Well, I mostly ate it. Couldn't help myself!<br /></div>Fire Roasted Tomato Grain Meat<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_2154.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_2154.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">And finally... the only food that I've had all month that I could not get out of my mind...<br /><br /></div>The highlight of my month:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_2182.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_2182.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Amaretto is quite possibly my all-time favorite flavor. Coconut milk is pretty high up there also. I almost lost it when I walked down the dessert aisle at Whole Foods and found this. I opened the frozen case and this actually felt like it was staring back at me.<br /><br />This was a pretty pathetic post. I know. But better than not posting anything, Right?<br /><br />-Lee<br /></div></center>LeAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01267399244372721002noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4484154050732213985.post-33307280411775817662010-03-12T20:49:00.000-08:002010-03-12T22:16:17.872-08:00I Want Tea and Black Bean Burgers!<center><div style="text-align: left;">My favorite thing to drink is tea. I absolutely love tea. My mom is a huge tea drinker. I remember always seeing her with a cup of tea the whole time I was growing up. Guess I got it from her. I have a cup sitting in front of me now as I type this. I also love mugs. I love wacky and fun looking mugs. My current favorite is my monkey mug. I have loved it since I first laid eyes on it. It was only 5 dollars. I couldn't pass it up. There's also a zebra, a giraffe and an elephant. I'll be sure to show those off in a later post.<br /></div><br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_2074.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_2074.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Another favorite of mine are my black bean burgers. I make amazing <a href="http://veganelbows.blogspot.com/2009/02/bbq-black-bean-burgers.html">Black Bean Burgers</a>. I topped these off with sauteed mushrooms, avocado spread, lettuce and mustard.<br /></div><br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_2077.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_2077.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I went over to my friend Heather's house to cook dinner for her again and decided on these because they are just amazing. I blogged BBQ black bean burgers, however you can add whatever kind of sauce you like to the mixture. I've done Dijon mustard, bbq sauce and I've also done ones with salsa. These I used a tomato based sauce (it was what was available). If using this recipe, replace the amount of bbq sauce with whatever sauce/salsa that you wish. That's the best part about black bean burgers. They can be so versatile! They worked out extremely well when I made <a href="http://veganelbows.blogspot.com/2009/03/panko-fried-black-bean-patty-wrap.html">Panko Friend Black Bean Patties</a>.<br /></div><br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_2079.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_2079.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Creamy Veggie Potatoes<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_2108.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_2108.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">These were tasty. Very filling. Hit the spot.<br /><br /><center><br />Zucchini/Bell Pepper tofu<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_2115.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_2115.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Probably one of my favorite things I've had for breakfast lately!<br /><br />-1 Bell Pepper, diced<br />-1 Zucchini, diced<br />-1/2 tub firm tofu, crumbled<br />- diced onion<br />-1 tbsp nutritional yeast<br />- garlic (fresh or powdered)<br />- salt and pepper to taste<br /><br />Quick and easy. Dice veggies and cook them in 1 tbsp olive oil until softened. Add crumbled tofu and spices. Cook until water from tofu is evaporated. TA DA!<br /></div><br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_2114.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_2114.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_2120.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_2120.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /></center><br /></div></center>LeAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01267399244372721002noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4484154050732213985.post-8541222709563896772010-02-10T10:15:00.000-08:002010-02-10T11:09:20.907-08:00Dinner party success and some mobile uploadsHello all. I am currently testing out the blogger application for iPhone. Let's see how it goes!<br /><br />A little over a week ago my friend Rob let me host a fully vegan dinner party at his amazing high rise. I was completely stressed when I found out how many people were going to be there, which was around 50. Out of 50 people there were 3 vegans and 2 vegetarians. <br /><br />I cooked about 6 different dishes and luckily my friend Deanna, who was hosting with me, brought a bunch of great food! I hoped and wished that would be enough, but luckily there were plenty of people bringing food as well! It was so great to see people participating even though they probably never shopped for anything vegan in their lives. <br /><br />Now for the good news and the bad news. <br /><br />THE GOOD NEWS: I have never received more compliments in my life. The way I was introduced to veganism was completely WRONG. I had a friend emailing me photos of slaughtered animals and trying to force information on me instead of taking a smoother, less hostile approach. And while my respect for all life is one of the reasons I chose veganism, it was just the wrong way to go about it. When I finally did go vegan (not because of that person) I told myself that I would never be THAT kind of vegan. <br /><br />Most americans think all we eat is salad and I wanted to show people that that is false. I always want to introduce veganism to people in a positive way and thanks to Rob I was able to do that to many people at once. I met a lot of new people and heard more feedback than I ever have. I was even receiving feedback for Deanna's dishes which I passed on to her. <br /><br />THE BAD NEWS: I have no pictures!!! I was so incredibly busy through the whole party that I forgot until half way through. By then there wasn't much left to get pictures of. I think Deanna may have some shots. I also wanted to get video footage and failed to do that as well. Buh!!!<br /><br />In conclusion, it was a great time, people were happy and I only heard 1 person talking shit. I expected at least that, but coming to a vegan dinner party and talking shit on veganism seems a bit silly, don't you think? Thank you Rob for suggesting that we do this party. And for the invitation to do it again!<br /><br /><br /><br />And now, some mobile uploads of food eaten while out and about. Beware, they are not high quality photos. <br /><br />Dolmas from Paymon's:<br /><br /><center><a href='http://picasaweb.google.com/LeanneThacker/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCI6CkoPcq7vWPg#5436693955482831570'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxNHd01Ylx80eQKKmmL3dsQ-T2YhhVySYOQzZUNQzqzlWjYJESQMe8bRyNqtUr7GKd9iR4qU3D6HrDVfHLQPyLLjO91j5Mw7bUzXgCeAbw4Uhx323LIgSRyHjU8Bd_cKZnd5mvqep8rTE/s288/iphone_photo.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Falafel from Paymon's:<br /><br /><center><a href='http://picasaweb.google.com/LeanneThacker/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCI6CkoPcq7vWPg#5436693964744417490'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh325t_LmwStQCGKwKvlIGstk4Eh8lmSlU1IDUovu_mlp-v8RkCuJthTS0nrE23KlTDE8Thw8J8A6z7v6nnSAPCk20AWME0Tfv0TkFoyeZepMdxLa1wkOdDkVTVZGjuj2nAX0SD7Dvietw/s288/iphone_photo.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Zucchini enciladas, dolmas and tofu stroganoff from Whole Foods:<br /><br /><center><a href='http://picasaweb.google.com/LeanneThacker/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCI6CkoPcq7vWPg#5436693968460047090'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghLvV76zqfzIQn_Hoa90SJoOwZYS7lgYedMc93tbQzRZMfAyDmsFvpolNB2_C70wcEk03EjqYUgIAYOMaQ6YEapIpKKOHSeN4VguDlY4-I6N3cQiWmiBCccYdMSxW6hncSES_sXskPlVw/s288/iphone_photo.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />And, 2 different trips for veggie sushi at Momo Sushi. <br /><br /><center><a href='http://picasaweb.google.com/LeanneThacker/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCI6CkoPcq7vWPg#5436693978631221650'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2eUQz1lGjn1YOhrvbeBQG30crcH8zzUzN0MYYWx0Y3Ck6vL30flpgSyY5iwBAB-TiO13rT91Y0GsmOZjGF3J1zbLcBlGFWCvTv0BufvNOwK_mafWZfSGlWrDkRvDPwMu5ji0-wAFUAOM/s288/iphone_photo.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://picasaweb.google.com/LeanneThacker/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCI6CkoPcq7vWPg#5436693983211347842'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEoe5cuNGOdmmX_oOJnQ9UZNdLB9Qa4KcslZOjuN6-lV8BHKcB9pM4nhl8tu_xDdNv1y0d1DVbHKCVnzgQAPfqlWHgpSN6wFyrYBrg2r3Rki13NTnkXrDUmgsczX0nU9Dq2XKNC-CjFC4/s288/iphone_photo.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br />LeAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01267399244372721002noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4484154050732213985.post-14767414563270640752010-01-20T02:41:00.000-08:002010-01-20T02:41:37.775-08:00The slacking is over. Back to blogging!It's been a long time. The last blog I posted was back in July. Wow, that was quite some time ago. I've come back to blogging because I miss it. Yes, my life will be insanely hectic for the next 9 months as I prepare myself for graduation, but that doesn't mean I have to give up on what makes me happy. Blogging made me happy for the 1 year that I dedicated myself to it. It was so much fun and it helped me learn a lot more about what it is to be vegan and how to be a healthy one at that.<br /><br />Ok, enough chatter. Here are a few things that I've eaten lately:<br /><center><br />Grits and Kale/tomato/garlic tofu scramble:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_1815.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_1815.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Close Up Shot:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_1814.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_1814.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">This is definitely one of my favorite things to eat for breakfast. Grits are amazing AND filling. I didn't feel hungry again for many, many hours. Plus, you can't go wrong with kale, tomatoes and garlic. </div><br />Sauteed Seitan Over Rice<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_1771.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_1771.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">When I first started cooking seitan I thought it was horrible. I followed someone's recipe and found it to be completely YUCK! That's right! Com-plete-ly YUCK! I gave up on it. Few months later, being the open person that I am, I decided to give it another go. I used Isa Moskowitz's Simple Seitan recipe from VEGANOMICON and I have never had a problem with it since. Thanks, Isa.<br /><br /><center>Israeli couscous w/ Spinach and Tempeh:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_2069.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_2069.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">This was very good. It was one of those "I just got home from working all day/throw something together really quick because I'M STARVING" dinners. Not a complete dinner but it was midnight and I just needed food.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The PIZZA:<br /></div></div><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_2049.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_2049.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Now that my good friend Heather lives in town again it gives me the opportunity to cook with someone. She's not vegan but is very interested in learning about the lifestyle and is open to trying just about any food I throw at her. This pizza was simple. Red pepper tomato sauce, sliced sun dried tomato Tofurkey Italian Sausages, thick slices of mushroom and topped off with <a href="http://www.daiyafoods.com/products.html">Daiya Vegan Cheese</a>. The melting was pretty good, but what got me was the taste of Daiya. Absolutely delicious. Won't mind using this every time I make pizza. Ialso sprinkled some <a href="http://www.spicebazaar.com/search?page=1&letter=&keyword=athens&catId=-1">Athens Seasoning</a> on the crust for a little extra somethin'.<br /></div><br />MmMmMm... So good:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_2055.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_2055.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />The Holidays:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Thanksgiving was a bust. I didn't cook anything! I just went to my sisters house and filled up on my brother's magical alcoholic concoctions. My family was pretty upset that I didn't bring anything that I could eat. I really should have. I have no excuses. However, Christmas was much different. I made myself Christmas dinner for the first time. I was very happy with it! Even my family was eating my food.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Mashed Garlic Red Potatoes w/ Kale, Green Onion:<br /></div></div><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_2005.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_2005.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Garlic Infused Seitan Roast w/ carrots, broccoli, mushroom:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_2003.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_2003.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />My plate assembled:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=IMG_2008.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/IMG_2008.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></center><br />No Recipes this post, but I am having a much anticipated Vegan dinner party at my good friend Rob's house on the 31st. There will be plenty of pictures and I'll definitely throw some recipes at you. I may even have video footage for you all!<br /><br />-Lee<br /></div></center>LeAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01267399244372721002noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4484154050732213985.post-49309859549931233502010-01-15T01:10:00.000-08:002010-01-15T01:19:35.915-08:00It's been a while...This... Is my OOPS face: <br /><br /><center><a href='http://picasaweb.google.com/LeanneThacker/BloggerPictures?authkey=Gv1sRgCI6CkoPcq7vWPg#5426893789228934578'><img src='https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvkcKOjsa-Isl7Vry-jHWEze4w1Q9YFTdGfLTbSjNYwWP5K48JRbMO882Y0pu8InfMlRmuJ8xQrulz4-3aiJYqpRH1_bWJoO85zb8guD14KnyXqJvF2M7L7-G3-_oklq4sEsk0Q_l5zMQ/s288/iphone_photo.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />I have done a horrible job of keeping up with this blog. It has been nearly 6 months since my last post. Pretty pathetic indeed. BUT... as you can see I have decided to rejoin the world of vegan food blogging. Unfortunately, I am not posting any recipes or food photography in this post. I just wanted to take the time to thank you all for being followers and I will make it up to you. <br /><br />See you all soon!!!<br /><br />-Lee<br />LeAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01267399244372721002noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4484154050732213985.post-18150145365842034382009-07-20T18:59:00.000-07:002009-07-20T19:39:47.911-07:00Red Velvet Cafe and More.I have been wanting to go to Red Velvet Cafe for a long time. I finally took the time to go. IT WAS VERY MUCH WORTH IT!!! My friend Jeny (I loves me some Jeny) called me up and told me she was interested in going because I had been talking to her about it for like 2 weeks. I honestly plan on trying everything on their menu before I move back to CA next summer. The restaurant serves omnivores, vegetarians AND <span style="font-weight: bold;">vegans</span>. How often does that happen? Everything on their menu is veganizable!<br /><br />Veganizable? I know, I know. "That's not a real word." Oh, YES it IS!<br /><br />First, we ordered the most amazing <span style="font-weight: bold;">chips and guac</span> that I've ever had in my life.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=0017.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/0017.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></div>Look how much they give you! At most places the guac runs out before the chips do. this was SO not the case. I would have been totally satisfied on just this, but the food kept coming.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Closer shot:<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=0018-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/0018-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /></div><center><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Next up, what I ordered. I decided on the vegan <span style="font-weight: bold;">Taco Salad</span>. Very BIG, very good. I absolutely hate when I restaurant is stingy on the avocados. I swear I must have eaten the equivalency of 3 avocados. I was happy.<br /><br /></div>Vegan Taco Salad:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=0021-1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/0021-1.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Inside shot after I ate 1/4 of it:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=0028.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/0028.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Next up, What Jeny ordered. She settled on the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Veggie Panini</span>. She actually gave me half of her order to take home because she's not good with leftovers and I am. This was even more amazing than my taco salad! Spinach, artichoke, roasted Tomato, pesto and vegan cheese. I'm drooling now thinking about it.<br /><br /></div>Veggie Panini<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=0025.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/0025.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />2nd Shot:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=0026.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/0026.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I'm just glad she put up with me taking pictures of the food before either of us touched it. I highly reccommend this restaurant. If you live in Las Vegas or ever visit and want to have an absolutely enjoyable meal, pick Red Velvet.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">REd Velvet Cafe<br />7875 W. Sahara Ave Ste. 103<br />Las Vegas, NV<br /></div></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">In my last pst I showed you 2 ways I like to have my grits for breakfast. I think this one beat all. I had this one day last week. I told a story about how my mom use to make grits for us all the time. Well, as we got older and learned to make them for ourselves my brothers got really into making cheese grits. It's amazing how nutritional yeast, vegan margarine and garlic can give off a cheesy flavor! That's how i made these. I made a seitan/tofu scramble with a less dense tofu (last time I used Wild Wood, which i wish I could use every day. Sadly I ran out).<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">"Cheesy" Grits:<br /></div></div><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=0014.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/0014.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Tasty-tasty it was. I leave for San diego on Wednesday (July 22) and I'll be home late Sunday. some time after that you shall see another blog of all the fun I am going to have at 2009 COMIC CON!!! Til' next time!<br /><br />-Lee<br /></div></center>LeAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01267399244372721002noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4484154050732213985.post-87187625357312466812009-07-05T18:00:00.000-07:002009-07-11T16:01:29.350-07:00MY 50TH POST!!!Yeah, I know. Most people celebrate their 100th post, but screw all that. I'm proud that I have made it to my 50th post! I'm also ecstatic that I have almost 50 followers! I am very glad that you all have me in your thoughts. I hope I have added you all to my list of who I follow as well.<br /><br />I figured since it was my 50th post I'd make it a big one! So let's get going! Sorry, there aren't any recipes in this particular post.<br /><br />Last week I had some Tofurkey deli slices left and had myself a sandwich. Not a huge, wonderful sandwich, just a plain sandwich. It was good, not spectacular, but good. However, I wanted to jazz up the Vegenaise so I made a Spicy cilantro garlic spread. I mixed together crushed garlic, cilantro, Tabasco and Vegenaise. I'm not going to lie, it was just okay. It kinda had a funny taste to it, but the sandwich was still good.<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Spicy Cilantro Garlic spread:<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=0035.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/0035.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a></div><center><br /><br />On the bread:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=0039.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/0039.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Just the deli slices, lettuce and the cilantro spread. I think what made my lunch better was the Three Bean Salad I had with it. The recipe is posted <a href="http://veganelbows.blogspot.com/2009/06/less-stress-time-to-cook.html">HERE</a> in a previous post.<br /></div><br />MmMmMm... Bean salad:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=0040.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/0040.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Tofurkey Sandwich:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=0042.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/0042.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">A friend that I work with decided to move to Oakland, CA. This made me sad. What's even worse is none of the managers at my job gave him anything! No going away cake, no card, no we'll miss you... NOTHING! Shows how much they care about us. No one did anything for him and I thought that was kind of sad. Since I knew this was going to happen I planned to make him a whole cake just for him and his girlfriend Tonya to share. I'll miss you Allen!<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Coconut Lemon Bundt cake from Veganomicon.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=0043.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/0043.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a></div></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">He had tried a slice of this cake when I took it to one of my good friend <a href="http://www.joeyloveisrevenge.blogspot.com/">Joey's</a> shindigs. He loved everything about the cake and asked me many times to make it for him. I kept up the whole, "I will... soon" for a good 6 months. I couldn't let him leave without making it for him. I told him I would and I refused to let him leave and remember me as the liar that never made his damn cake.<br /><br /></div>Topped off with powdered sugar:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=0044.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/0044.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">He was so happy. I told him since no one did anything for him he shouldn't feel the need to share (bitchy of me?) but he shared anyway. Now the whole store wants me to bring in cake on a regular basis.<br /></div><br /><br /><center>Breakfast Grits, Day 1:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=0006.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/0006.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I haven't had grits since I lived at home. I don't know why I waited so long to make this! My mom use to make grits for breakfast all the time! My mom is in town right now and I got to hang out with her a few days ago. Since then I have been thinking about her a lot and I remembered how she cooked grits and eggs for the whole family (me and my 9 brothers and sisters) on a regular basis. Since I don't eat eggs now I made <a href="http://veganelbows.blogspot.com/search/label/Scrambed%20Tofu">tofu</a> to go with it (I'm out of green onions unfortunately, but it still came out good).<br /></div><br />Grits, Day 2:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=0010.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/0010.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I kicked it up a few DOZEN notches this morning when I had this. I topped my grits off with a super delicious teriyaki tofu/seitan scramble. I could honestly eat this every day! It was super simple. all you need is:<br /><br />-1/2 tub tofu<br />-teriyaki sauce<br />-seitan (I made the Simple Seitan from Vegamonicon)<br />-1/2 cup chopped onion<br />-Vegan magarine<br />-nutritional yeast<br />-bit of salt/pepper<br /><br />I don't have exact measurements, I threw in about 1 tbsp of each. (except onion and salt) It came out really good. I highly recommend it.<br /></div><br />Veggie/Seitan Stir Fry:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=0003.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/0003.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">In September my roommate and one of my best friends is moving to CA. This does not make me happy, but I am happy that he is finally graduating and getting out of Vegas once and for all. So, when he moves I will be moving in with the other best friend Joelle and her boyfriend. I went over to hang out the other day and brought some of the homemade seitan for her. (She's vegetarian) Her very un-vegetarian boyfriend took the seitan and whipped up an amazing vegan friendly veggie stir fry for us! It... was... so... DELICIOUS!!! He made sure to clear all ingredients with me before making it. (which was only 3 ingredients besides the veggies! Genius!)<br /></div><br />Supa dupa tasty:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=0001.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/0001.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">And last but not least...<br /></div><center>Bumble Bar:<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=0013.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/0013.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">My wonderful friend Magda came to pick me up for the gym last week and brought me a little gift. I use to eat these like crazy and I hadn't had one in over a year. It's like they were somehow erased from my thoughts. I love these. Especially when I am running out the door and don't have time to make food for myself (which happens WAY too often).<br /><br /><br />And there we have it. My 50th post. I hope it wasn't too lame or boring for you. I also apologize for no real recipes in this post. I will make it up to you, I swear.<br /><br />-Lee<br /></div></center><br /></center><br /></center>LeAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01267399244372721002noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4484154050732213985.post-56017455879951830362009-06-23T08:36:00.000-07:002009-06-25T10:32:09.057-07:00Sushi, Martinis and Afros.Father's Day weekend was fun. I don't talk to my father but my roommate's father and his wife came down from Portland for a few days. Last time they came for a visit we all went to a very good Japanese place across the street from my job called Momo Sushi. We went again this time. The last time they visited I wasn't vegan, so now I get the vegetarian rolls, which honestly taste just as good as their rolls tasted to me when I ate fish.<br /><br /><center><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=sushi2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/sushi2.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=sushi3.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/sushi3.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Here in Vegas we have a new outdoor shopping center called Town Square. The movie theater there is Rave Motion Pictures. There is also a martini bar there called The Blue Martini. If you go to the movies you can take your ticket stub over to Blue Martini and redeem it for 1 free martini. SWEET, RIGHT?!?! So, I got the Pomegranate martini. It was so tasty.<br /></div><br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=PomMartini.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/PomMartini.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">And I couldn't close this blog without posting my afro. I don't often put pictures of myself up on this blog, but I couldn't pass this one up.<br /></div><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=fro2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/fro2.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /></center><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>LeAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01267399244372721002noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4484154050732213985.post-57391304708905296942009-06-19T09:06:00.000-07:002009-06-19T18:13:31.508-07:00No school= time to cook.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="white-space: pre-wrap;font-family:monospace;font-size:13;" ><center style="text-align: left; font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">This school quarter is coming to an end. I have 1 more day of classes to take and then I don't have classes for 3 weeks. Oh, I am so excited! 3 weeks!!! No homework, I can work on revision of a short screenplay that I'll be producing later this year, I can watch movies and cook and relax. This past week has been pretty calm. I've been able to cook a few things:</span></center><center style="text-align: left; font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></center><center style="text-align: center; font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">Tortillas filled with tofu, kale, tomato and fresh garlic:</span></center><center><span style="font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" class="Apple-style-span" > </span><span style="font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=0022.jpg" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/0022.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></span></a></span><span style="font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span><div style="text-align: left; font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">These were pretty tasty if I do say so myself. I honestly haven't had kale in months and when I first went vegan I lived off it! </span></div><div style="text-align: left; font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center; font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">Closer shot:</span></div><span style="font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" class="Apple-style-span" > </span><span style="font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=0021.jpg" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/0021.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></span></a></span><span style="font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span><div style="text-align: center; font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">Strawberry BBQ Tempeh: </span></div><span style="font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" class="Apple-style-span" > </span><span style="font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=0018.jpg" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/0018.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></span></a></span><span style="font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span><div style="text-align: left; font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">This is a recipe I'm working on. A strawberry bbq sauce. This was really good, but I'm not yet ready to reveal the recipe. I have time off of school so I'll be working on this. When I'm done I will surely post it!</span></div><div style="text-align: left; font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center; font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">Three Bean Salad:</span></div><span style="font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" class="Apple-style-span" > </span><span style="font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=0012.jpg" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/0012.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></span></a></span><span style="font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span><div style="text-align: left; font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">-1 15 oz can White Beans</span></div><div style="text-align: left; font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">-1 15 oz can Kidney Beans</span></div><div style="text-align: left; font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">-1 15 oz can Pinto Beans</span></div><div style="text-align: left; font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">-1 rib of celery, minced</span></div><div style="text-align: left; font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">-2 tbsp onion, minced</span></div><div style="text-align: left; font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">-1-2 bulb fresh garlic, minced</span></div><div style="text-align: left; font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">-1/2 cup minced cilantro</span></div><div style="text-align: left; font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">-2 tbsp balsamic vinegar</span></div><div style="text-align: left; font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">-1 tbsp agave nectar (any liquid sweetener should do, though.)</span></div><div style="text-align: left; font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">-1/2 tsp thyme</span></div><div style="text-align: left; font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left; font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">Drain and rinse your beans and place them into a bowl that has a lid. Mince all of your other ingredients that need to be and place them in the bowl. Add your vinegar, sweetener and thyme and mix well. make sure your ingredients are evenly spread out across all of the beans. Refrigerate overnight and allow flavors to blend.</span></div><div style="text-align: left; font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left; font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left; font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left; font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">And last, but most definitely not least, my favorite brand of store bought hummus. Sabra brand Red Pepper Hummus. I was use to buying this for 5 dollars a container. 5 DOLLARS!!! That's a lot when you buy it fairly often. BUT!!! I received a tip that another store has it for HALF of that price. They did, so now I don't feel as financially guilty when I buy this.</span></div><div style="text-align: left; font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center; font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:100%;">MmMmMm... look at that swirl of goodness... *sigh*</span></div><span style="font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" class="Apple-style-span" > </span><span style="font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" ><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=0008.jpg" target="_blank"><span class="Apple-style-span"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/0008.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></span></a></span><span style="font-family: courier new;font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" class="Apple-style-span" ><br /></span><br /></center></span>LeAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01267399244372721002noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4484154050732213985.post-4560999235806756482009-06-08T19:30:00.001-07:002009-06-09T15:13:31.457-07:00Neener's Irresistible Polenta Fries<center><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=polentafries004.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/polentafries004.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">This was my first attempt making polenta fries. I have heard nothing but good things about them and I absolutely love polenta so I figured I'd wing it and see how they come out.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">NOT EVEN KIDDING... THESE WERE LEGENDARY!!!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I doubt I could top the flavor of these. I feel so bad that I didn't get the chance to share with anyone. I'm home alone! These were so amazing that no sauce was needed... at all! I was smart enough to write down the recipe as I went along. It was fairly simple. If any of you have good polenta fry recipes I would love to try many different ways of making this. I have found my new favorite side. (even more than my <a href="http://veganelbows.blogspot.com/2008/12/bundt-cake-and-few-cheesy-things.html">KALETATOES</a>!<br /><br /><br />-1 tube of ready made polenta (I got mine @ Fresh and Easy)<br />-1/2 cup flour<br />-1/4 cup nutritional yeast<br />-1/3 tsp dry mustard<br />-1 tsp sea salt<br />-1/2 cup + 1-2 tbsp water<br />-1 crushed/grated/minced clove of garlic<br />-1 tsp hot pepper sesame oil (optional)<br />-oil for frying (I used olive oil)<br /><br /><br />Cut your polenta into thick sticks and set them in the fridge until you are ready for them. Combine the dry ingredient and mix well. Then add the water, garlic and sesame oil (or any spicy oil that you have... or don't add any) and mix well so that there are no lumps.The consistency of the batter should be a little thinner than pancake batter. I used my electric mixer, so if you have one use it.<br /><br />Heat a small skillet. I used cast iron because it heats evenly. Add your oil to the pan. I only used a small amount of olive oil. Remove your polenta sticks from the fridge and dip them into the batter. Make sure you there isnt too much batter on the outside of your polenta sticks when they go into the oil. I lightly scraped the batter off so that there was a perfect layer on the outside. It may be tricky and messy though. Fry them until they reach the golden brown color that causes you to salivate.<br /></div></div></div></center>LeAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01267399244372721002noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4484154050732213985.post-54686645436332726062009-06-04T18:13:00.000-07:002009-06-04T18:21:18.682-07:00Yes, Chipotle's Vegetarian Burritos are VEGAN...<center><div style="text-align: left;">My last few posts were a mile long each. This is going to be a short post.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Chipotle Vegetarian Burrito... MmMmMmMm...<br /></div></div><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=6-4-09001.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/6-4-09001.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /></center>If you get them without the obvious non-vegan items (cheese and sour cream) they are vegan friendly as well as DELICOUS!!! I am so addicted to these. If I can't decide what I want, these burritos are always what I turn to. I know they are high in calories, but I don't count calories so I'm ok. I ate half for lunch today and had half for dinner, that's how big they are. And they are under 6 dollars. I'm sold!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=6-4-09005.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/6-4-09005.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Oh, how I love you Veggie Burrito from Chipotle..</div></div>LeAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01267399244372721002noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4484154050732213985.post-32171642498253572512009-05-28T01:09:00.000-07:002009-05-28T02:24:54.368-07:00Ain't Nothin' but a "Veggie Thing"...<div style="text-align: center;"><img style="width: 145px; height: 145px;" alt="http://veggiething.com/wp-content/themes/VeggieThing/images/veggie_badge.jpg" src="http://veggiething.com/wp-content/themes/VeggieThing/images/veggie_badge.jpg" /><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">If you're like me, you have your camera on you all the time. You never know what you're going to want to photograph! Imagine you are at an awesome vegan friendly restaurant. You order your meal and when it comes to your table you can't believe how wonderful it is. You snap a picture of it's gloriousness for your blog or to show your friends or maybe even post it on the <a href="http://www.postpunkkitchen.com/forum/index.php">PPK forums</a>. Not only is it extremely tasty looking, but tastes as good as it looks. Wouldn't you like to inform other vegans about this wonderful dish? Well, I have found the way to make that happen. <a href="http://www.veggiething.com">VEGGIE THING</a>, powered by <a href="http://www.citysearch.com">CitySearch.com</a>, has given us a way to flaunt those wonderful vegalicious noms we've been finding while out and about.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.veggiething.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/VTNavBar.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /></div>Like I said... It's not always easy to find vegan food while dining out in Las Vegas, but this is my small part I am taking in order to help the ones on the search find good food here. No vegan should have to settle for just having a salad (that may be without dressing depending on what a restaurant serves!) when they can have a great meal!<br /><center><a href="http://www.veggiething.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/VT4Photo.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;">If you are a traveling vegan, check out this website! If you're a vegan who eats out a lot, check out this website. If you ARE NOT a vegan and love vegetables, check out this website. It's for veggie lovers everywhere. The more people there are submitting from different areas of the country, the better chance we all have at finding amazing vegan eats everywhere.<br /></div><a href="http://www.veggiething.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/VTBtmBar.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.veggiething.com">VeggieThing.com</a><br /></center></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhz3Ssrq9KY6LapqQVA6gUgKs3r3sEFXs5w-fFxwyRkahic6ncn7oU-XR5Miukh0SWM3Tv463vjxIRQreQklUFYvI6eyNfzcYFs4GCck8OhZUiIZ6EaFoUSm6JHdB9yTqbm55JacqJXjOan/s1600-h/VTNavBar.jpg"><br /></a></div>LeAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01267399244372721002noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4484154050732213985.post-90414921885339200952009-05-24T21:00:00.000-07:002009-05-24T21:41:37.613-07:00A few things I've eaten recently.<center><div style="text-align: left;">Ladies and Gents, I have an announcement! Las Vegas has a VEGAN DONUT SHOP!!! Of all the things to have a donut shop? I don't want to sound like a complainer but it just seems odd to me. However, I hadn't had a donut in YEARS, so I decided to give it a try. Magda came over and we headed to Ronald's Donuts. It's really cool. There are 3 rows of donuts in the case and the top 2 rows are 100% vegan. I played Eenie Meenie and picked a dozen because I have plenty of people to share with. I'm not going to lie, I ate like 4 of them.<br /><br /></div><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=002.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/002.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Here we have homemade trail mix. I had a bunch of different bags of snacks in the cupboard so I tossed them together. Old fashion rolled oats, raisins, peanuts, shaved coconut, chopped pistachios (very small amount. I only see a piece of one in this picture) and ground flax seed. One day last week I ended up pouring some soy milk over it because I was out of cereal. Worked out very well.<br /></div><br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=017.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/017.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Strawberry sorbet. It has been gettin much hotter out lately and I usually try to have as many cold, healthy treats as possible.<br /></div><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=M003.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/M003.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Another falafel trip. Paymon's is where it's at! Here we have the hummus:<br /></div><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=013.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/013.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">The warm, fluffy, delicious pita bread that comes with it:<br /></div><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=012.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/012.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><center><div style="text-align: left;">And, YES, another falafel. Yes it is an addiction. No, i will not give it up!<br /></div><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=014.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/014.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /></center><div style="text-align: left;">I had made a gigantic pot of red beans about a month ago and froze a good portion of it. i forgot it was in the freezer! So, since I have been a little on the broke side lately I pulled it out and defrosted it. 'll be able to have this for dinner for a few days. No complaints either because they are SO GOOD! It is always best to use dry beans and cook them yourself. They always come out better.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=5-24-09011.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/5-24-09011.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><div style="text-align: left;">And because I am my mother's child... I sometimes add ketchup to my red beans. Sounds strange? Try it. She has done this for as long as I can remember.<br /></div></div></div><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=5-24-09012.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/5-24-09012.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">A salad for lunch. From the bottom up: Shredded (longwise) zucchini, Super Firm tofu, Organic Flax Tempeh, sesame seeds. The dressing I used was a mixture of Rice Vinegar, Agave Nectar, salt and coriander.<br /></div><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=5-24-09002.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/5-24-09002.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /></center>LeAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01267399244372721002noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4484154050732213985.post-41118317379811730232009-05-19T00:59:00.000-07:002009-05-19T01:43:07.596-07:00Lunch at Himalayan CuisineToday was a good day. I got a group of girlfriends together and we all went for lunch. For those of you who know me, you know I have kind of a hard time finding places to eat in Las Vegas. I always found it to be very UN-VEGAN. For the most part I am correct. However, I have been able to find a few places lately. Of course none of them are near where I live... but oh well.<br /><br />Today my good friends Joelle, Magdalena, Charlotte and Marie came with me to <a href="http://www.himalayancuisine.com"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Himalayan Cuisine</span></a>. Lunch was absolutely fantastic. I researched the place before going, of course and found that they have quite a bit of vegan options. I was the only vegan in our group, but Joelle is vegetarian and eats vegan a good portion of the time. All of us were completely in love with the food.<br /><br />The food I ordered:<br /><div style="text-align: center;">White Strawberry Iced Tea<br /></div><center><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=Himalayan5-19-09001.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/Himalayan5-19-09001.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Chana Masala (So AMAZING!)<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=Himalayan5-19-09008.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 500px; height: 375px;" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/Himalayan5-19-09008.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Wonderful basmati rice.<br /><center><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=Himalayan5-19-09010.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 500px; height: 375px;" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/Himalayan5-19-09010.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Together... in harmony.<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=Himalayan5-19-09011.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 499px; height: 374px;" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/Himalayan5-19-09011.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />The Alu Kaoli Masala<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=Himalayan5-19-09007.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 501px; height: 375px;" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/Himalayan5-19-09007.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Freshly made Naan. I don't think words can describe<br />how light and tasty this naan was. I was so hooked!<br /></center><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=Himalayan5-19-09009.jpg" target="_blank"><img style="width: 499px; height: 374px;" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/Himalayan5-19-09009.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />and finally... Kakro Salad (wasn't mine, but was vegan!)<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=Himalayan5-19-09006.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/Himalayan5-19-09006.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I would definitely recommend this place. My mother is visiting soon, I will have to set aside a day for us to have dinner here.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Himalayan Cuisine<br />730 E. Flamingo Rd.<br />Las Vegas, NV<br /><a href="http://www.himalayancuisine.com">Himalayan Cuisine Website</a><br /></div></div></center>LeAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01267399244372721002noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4484154050732213985.post-3516246354458036202009-05-13T22:21:00.000-07:002009-05-15T01:43:33.170-07:00Tomato/Basil Tofu. Amazing snack.<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=tofutriscuits003.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/tofutriscuits003.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">1/2 block tofu<br />2-3 nicely sized, fresh basil leaves<br />1/2 - 1 full Roma tomato (depends on how much tomato you want.)<br />1/2 tbsp olive oil<br />1/2 tsp sea salt<br /><br />Crumble the tofu, then chop up your fresh basil. Add the rest to the bowl and let mixture sit in the fridge for about 20 minutes so the flavors blend. Serve on whatever you like!<br /></div></div>LeAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01267399244372721002noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4484154050732213985.post-3861457388713264562009-05-12T23:41:00.000-07:002009-05-13T00:54:35.630-07:00Finally tried out a new restaurant.New to me at least. I had heard about this place from a few vegan/vegetarian people that I have come across here in Vegas. Long Life Vegetarian is the name. Joelle and I went there for lunch today. We didn't realize it until we got there but it is a mostly vegetarian Chinese restaurant with a lot of vegan options. I was so excited. They aren't technically a fully vegetarian restaurant though because they do serve fish. That was a bummer, but they had plenty of options for us.<br /><br /><center>My order: Mango Tofu<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=LongLife05-13-09004.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/LongLife05-13-09004.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Crispy fried tofu smothered in a tangy but sweet mango sauce served with a side of white rice. This was good. And they give you a pretty good sized plate! Half of it went home with me. I thought the taste was awesome. But then I tried...<br /><br /></div>Joelle's Order: Tofu and Eggplant in a garlic sauce<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=LongLife05-13-09006.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/LongLife05-13-09006.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I nearly lost my shiznit when I tasted this one. It was absolutely incredible. I would love to have this one the next time we go. I will definitely go back here.<br /></div></center>LeAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01267399244372721002noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4484154050732213985.post-56567667113903943272009-05-04T11:19:00.000-07:002009-05-04T11:19:31.792-07:00Smoothie?! Shake?! Confused!! More Pizza Too?!?!<span style="font-size:130%;"> "Smoothies are generally made of fruit or vegetables; shakes are usually made of ice cream."</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:100%;">This is just one of the answers that I've gotten trying to find the difference between the 2. It is also the one that was straight to the point without babbling on and on. HOWEVER... What do you call soy ice cream + fruit + soymilk?</span> It is ice cream based so it's a shake, right? BUT WAIT! It contains mostly berries! So, it's a smoothie, right? A smake? A shoothie? Yea... I could go around and around. All I know is, Landry likes to make them and I like to eat them. Like I said, he WILL be making these all summer. First up:<br /><br /><br /><center><div style="text-align: left;">Soy ice cream, strawberries, soymilk and Strawberry Milkshake Oreos. I'm pretty sure this one counts as a shake. So, shake it is!<br /></div><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=ZZ007.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/ZZ007.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=ZZ015.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/ZZ015.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=ZZ021.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/ZZ021.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">It was tasty. Can't have too many of these though. I'd like to get rid of a few more lbs before summer and these are not the way to achieve that! However, they are very tasty.<br /><br />Next up:<br /><br />Apple, blueberry, strawberry, soy ice cream and soymilk. This one tasted more fruity, so I say smoothie.<br /><center><br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=PS013.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/PS013.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br />What can I say? Even he can't get enough of his own creations. Haha, he's even got a little on his shirt!<br /><br /></div><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=PS017.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/PS017.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Now, on to my pizza. And YES, I know that I have been posting it a lot lately but darnit, I like it. This time I didn't make it. I found somewhere to make a vegan pizza for me! I went to hole Foods with Joelle and they have a pizzeria right inside. I asked them what their sauce and dough contained and it was all vegan. They also pulled a pack of Follow Your Heart Vegan Mozzarella of the shelf for it.<br /><br /><center><br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=PS001.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/PS001.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Mushroomhalves, spinach, thick sliced tomatoes, roasted garlic and vegan mozzarella... It was very tasty.<br /></div><br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=PS003.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/PS003.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Up close and personal: (shook a little extra seasoning on it.)<br /><a href="http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/?action=view&current=PS007.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v338/lifeisamovie/PS007.jpg" alt="Photobucket" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Seeing as I will not be using my oven or stovetop this summer, I will probably pick up a pizza once a month so I can treat myself.<br /></div><br /><br /></center><br /></div></center></div></center>LeAnnehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01267399244372721002noreply@blogger.com8