Almond Coconut Raisin Cookies

Coconut oil has gained popularity for its versatile uses, from cooking to beauty routines. While it offers many benefits, we'll focus on its role in this delicious and healthy cookie recipe. These Almond Coconut Raisin Cookies combine the goodness of almond flour and coconut flour for a nutritious snack that's perfect for any time of day.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 cup self-rising flour
• 1/2 cup coconut flour
• 2 oz. raisins
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup melted coconut oil
• 1 egg

Directions:

1.    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2.    Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

3.    In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients and mix until well incorporated.

4.    Roll the dough to about 1-inch thickness. Cut into shapes or form into balls and place them 2 inches apart on the prepared baking sheet.

5.    Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cookies are golden brown.

6.    Transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool before enjoying.

Healthy Hummus Sandwich

This quick and nutritious hummus sandwich is perfect for a light lunch, appetizer, or full meal. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, it's a vegan option that everyone will enjoy. The creamy hummus pairs beautifully with a fresh tomato-cucumber relish, and you can customize it with your favorite veggies like lettuce or extra cucumber.

Ingredients:

Ingredients for the Hummus:

• 1 can garbanzo beans, drained
• 1/4 cup sesame tahini or 1/2 cup roasted sesame seeds
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 green onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 tsp paprika
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp water

Ingredients for the Tomato-Cucumber Relish:

• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 small cucumber, diced
• 1 tbsp parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Sandwich:

• 6 slices sandwich bread (toasted if desired)

Directions:

1.    Preparing the Hummus:

·         In a blender or food processor, combine the garbanzo beans, tahini (or roasted sesame seeds), lemon juice, garlic, green onion, paprika, salt, olive oil, and water.

·         Blend until smooth and creamy. Refrigerate the hummus for a few hours to allow the flavors to meld.

2.    Making the Tomato-Cucumber Relish:

·         In a bowl, mix together the diced tomatoes, cucumber, parsley, and lemon juice. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Set aside.

3.    Assembling the Sandwiches:

·         Spread a generous layer of hummus on one slice of bread.

·         Top with a portion of the tomato-cucumber relish.

·         Add any additional toppings like lettuce, if desired.

·         Place another slice of bread on top to complete the sandwich.

·         For extra crunch, toast the bread before assembling.

4.    Serving:

·         Cut the sandwich in half and serve immediately. Enjoy as a satisfying appetizer or a wholesome meal.

Vegetarian Mixed Fried Rice

In a Vietnamese kitchen, leftover rice is common, and it can easily be transformed into a delicious, nutrient-packed dish by adding a variety of vegetables. Transforming leftover rice into a scrumptious vegetarian mixed fried rice is a delightful way to reduce food waste while enjoying a burst of flavors. The Vietnamese kitchen thrives on such resourcefulness, turning simple ingredients into a feast for the senses.  Imagine the sizzle as you stir-fry an array of colorful vegetables - bell peppers, carrots, peas, and corn - each adding their unique texture and taste to the dish. The addition of fried tofu or vegetarian sausages not only enriches the meal with protein but also introduces a satisfying chewiness that complements the tender veggies. A dash of soy sauce, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and a hint of spice from a finely chopped chili can elevate this dish to new heights, making each bite a harmonious blend of savory, sweet, and umami flavors.  It is a testament to the versatility of the Vietnamese cuisine and its ability to cater to a vegetarian palate without compromising on taste or nutrition.  This vegetarian mixed fried rice is both satisfying and full of flavors.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups of cold rice
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/4 cup diced white onion
• 1/4 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas, corn, chayote, shiitake mushrooms, wood ear mushrooms)
• Seasonings: Soy sauce, vegetarian oyster sauce, sugar, salt, pepper, and seasoning powder
• A little coriander or green onion for garnish

Directions:

1.    Prepping the Mushrooms: Soak the shiitake and wood ear mushrooms in water until they soften. Once softened, wash and dice them.

2.    Cooking the Eggs: In a bowl, beat the eggs with a little chopped green onion. Heat a non-stick pan with 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the eggs and scramble them until fully cooked. Set aside.

3.    Cooking the Vegetables: Place all the diced vegetables in a microwave-safe bowl. Add enough water to cover, then microwave for 3 minutes. Drain and set aside.

4.    Stir-Frying the Vegetables: In the same pan, heat another tablespoon of oil. Add the garlic and onions, stirring until they become fragrant. Add the drained vegetables and stir-fry them with the scrambled eggs. Season lightly with soy sauce and salt.  Remove from the pan and set aside.

5.    Frying the Rice: In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Add the cold rice, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry the rice until the grains are separated and heated through.

6.    Combining and Seasoning: Add the vegetable and egg mixture back into the pan with the rice. Stir well to combine. Season with soy sauce, vegetarian oyster sauce, a pinch of sugar, and seasoning powder to taste.  Continue to stir-fry until everything is well mixed and heated through.

7.    Serving: Garnish with chopped coriander or green onions. Serve hot.

Tips:

• For best results, use rice that has been cooled completely or refrigerated for 3-4 hours before frying. This helps keep the grains firm and prevents clumping.
• Frying the vegetables and rice separately ensures that the rice grains remain distinct and aromatic.

Dealing with an Unfair Life

Life isn't always fair, and this is a fact that everyone has to face. Instead of complaining about unfairness, smart people will find ways to change their perception of the situation.

Mary Engelbreit once said: "If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your thinking about it." This quote reminds us that instead of letting unfairness frustrate us, we should change our thinking so that we can face it more positively.

Since childhood, perhaps all of us have experienced unfair situations. You may have been unfairly punished when fighting over a toy, or tried your best but still didn't achieve what you wanted, while others succeeded more easily because they had a better starting point. At times like these, feelings of disappointment and frustration will easily appear. However, complaining about life only adds stress to yourself and those around you.

But the truth is, life is inherently unfair, and no one can change this. Billionaire Bill Gates once said: "Life is inherently unfair. Get used to it!" Complaining does not help you solve problems, and only when you heal your soul and give up thinking of yourself as a victim, can you spread positive energy and face life optimistically.

Our reaction to injustice is natural. When we see fairness, the reward system in the brain is activated, but when we encounter injustice, the Amygdala - the area associated with fear and stress - is stimulated, making us easily angry and anxious.

Life is not always fair, and you may encounter situations such as working hard but not achieving success, losing out on a promotion opportunity because of others, or seeing a loved one being scammed. These injustices may be just a small part of what is happening in the world.

When faced with injustice, you can fight back without hurting yourself by controlling your emotions, thinking carefully before you act, and distinguishing between what can and cannot be changed. When faced with injustice, instead of thinking negatively and letting it paralyze you, remind yourself that thinking about it will not bring any results and that you need to find a way to compromise or change.

To think positively, you need to be aware of and control your emotions. Instead of blaming and blaming, focus on changing your perspective.  Life will always be unfair, but if you persevere and think positively, one day you will achieve your dreams.

Recognizing what can be changed is the key to facing injustice. You cannot change the past, but you can minimize its impact in the present. You can't change other people's behavior, but you can change your behavior to spread positive energy. While you can't guarantee results, you can still make a difference and not let things you can't control control you.

Life is not fair, but the important thing is to know how to face it and overcome it intelligently.

Asian Cabbage and Carrot Slaw

Asian Cabbage and Carrot Slaw is a delightful dish that combines the crisp textures of cabbage and carrots with a tangy dressing. It's a perfect balance of flavors and nutrients, offering a refreshing crunch with every bite. The addition of beta-carotene-rich carrots not only brings a vibrant color to the plate but also contributes to the antioxidant properties of the meal. Whether served as a light side or bulked up with protein like fried tofu or grilled meat for a satisfying main meal, this slaw is a testament to the beauty of simplicity in cooking.  Its adaptability makes it a favorite for picnics, potlucks, or a quick and nutritious weeknight dinner. Enjoy the harmony of ingredients that are as pleasing to the palate as they are beneficial for health.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups shredded red and green cabbage
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 teaspoon roasted sesame seeds

Dressing ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons orange juice
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon syrup (like maple or honey)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions:

1.    In a small bowl, whisk together all the dressing ingredients until well combined. Set aside.

2.    In a large bowl, combine the shredded cabbage, carrots, red onion, and green onions. Pour the dressing over the mixture and toss to coat evenly.

3.    Sprinkle with roasted sesame seeds.

4.    Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Tip: For a complete meal, top with deep-fried tofu or grilled meat. To save time, pre-shredded cabbage and carrots are available at most grocery stores.

Potato and Mushroom Patties

 Healthy eating and great flavor can go hand in hand, whether you're a full-time vegan or just looking for a new, nutritious dish. Research has consistently shown that incorporating more vegetables into your diet can extend your life, but eating healthy doesn't have to be dull. This recipe is proof!

Ingredients:

• 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 12 oz. button mushrooms, chopped
• 1 cup broccoli, finely diced
• 2 eggs
• 1/3 cup flour
• 2 cups cheese of your choice, shredded
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup white onion, chopped
• 1 cup fresh dill, chopped
• 1/3 cup milk
• Salt, pepper, and paprika to taste
• 1/4 tsp ground cumin
• 1/4 tsp ground coriander
• Oil for frying

Directions:

1.    Preparing Potatoes: Steam the cubed potatoes for about 9 minutes in an instant pot or until tender. Once done, mash them and set aside.

2.    Cooking the Broccoli: Place the broccoli in a microwave-safe dish with water and microwave for 4 minutes. Drain, squeeze out excess water, and finely dice.

3.    Sautéing the Mushrooms: In a pan, heat 1 tbsp of oil. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant. Add the chopped mushrooms and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.

4.    Mixing the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, diced broccoli, and sautéed mushrooms. Add the milk, eggs, and flour, and mix thoroughly. Stir in the chopped dill and cheese, and season the mixture with salt, pepper, paprika, cumin, and coriander to taste.

5.    Forming the Patties: Take a couple of tablespoons of the mixture and shape them into round patties. Continue until all the mixture is used up.

6.    Breading the Patties: Roll each patty in breadcrumbs until fully coated.

7.    Frying the Patties: Heat oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Fry each patty until golden brown on both sides.

8.    Serving: Enjoy these flavorful and healthy patties warm as a main dish or a satisfying side dish.

Why Should We Change Our Habits?

Habits are actions that we perform unconsciously, repeating them daily, often without recognizing or considering their positive or negative consequences. There are good habits, such as maintaining your health through a balanced diet, exercising, listening to Dharma talks to keep your mind peaceful, and staying away from negative influences.  However, there are also bad habits, such as drinking alcohol, gambling, smoking, and being lazy—these habits not only harm your mental health but also negatively affect your relationships. Therefore, it’s crucial that we clearly identify which habits to maintain and which bad habits to eliminate in order to become the best version of ourselves.

Habits are often formed from our living environment and are significantly influenced by those around us. As the saying goes, "You become like those you spend time with," or "You are shaped by your surroundings," meaning that our habits are often a reflection of the environment and the people we interact with.

Changing a habit is a significant challenge that requires a great deal of effort and perseverance. For example, if you want to improve your health, the first thing you need to do is reevaluate your diet. Are you consuming unhealthy foods?  Are you staying up late instead of getting proper sleep to ensure a good night's rest? These behaviors need to be adjusted.

Many people believe that simply knowing many profound and positive principles will change their lives.  But in reality, no matter how many principles you’ve heard—from the teachings of elders or the well-meaning advice of those around you—your life won’t change unless you put those principles into practice. Principles alone cannot change your life; only you can apply them in your daily habits.

There are countless ways to live, such as listening to meditation teachers guide you in spiritual practice and meditation, but if you don't practice these teachings, they are like "water off a duck’s back."

Thus, principles alone are not enough to change a person’s destiny; they are not a universal cure for every problem.  If you want to change your fate, you must practice the principles you believe to be correct to improve yourself.

Principles are abstract and universal, but life isn’t like that.  Life is ever-changing, and each person’s life is unique.  Each of us is an independent individual, not someone who blindly follows the guidance of others. When you apply someone else's principles to your own life, they may not necessarily work. Hearing a principle a thousand times is not as effective as taking one small step to turn that principle into a habit.

Good habits are a powerful and enduring force that can control your life. No one is born with extraordinary abilities; success comes from the experiences gained through daily habits.

As someone once said, “Sow a thought, reap an action; sow an action, reap a habit; sow a habit, reap a character; sow a character, reap a destiny.” Habits are the foundation of destiny; people live by their habits. Research shows that repeating an action for 21 days forms a habit, and repeating it for 90 days creates a stable habit.

Repeating an action for 21 days will turn it into a familiar habit, and repeating a thought for 21 days will turn it into a habitual thought. Once a habit is formed, it influences your subconscious, and your behavior changes without you even realizing it. Therefore, just acting once isn’t enough; you need to repeat the action many times to form a habit that leads to positive outcomes.

Change your bad habits, form good ones, keep the principles in your heart, and express them through your actions. When you have many good habits, living a good life will no longer be just a distant dream.

Stir-fried Mushrooms with Betel Leaves

Mushrooms are a nutritious addition to any vegetarian dish, offering a rich source of protein and fiber. King Oyster mushrooms, in particular, make an excellent meat substitute due to their firm texture, which holds up well during cooking. In this dish, we'll pair them with betel leaves, a fragrant herb with unique health benefits, for a flavorful twist.

Ingredients:

• 2 king oyster mushrooms, sliced into 1-inch pieces
• 10 betel leaves, stems removed, sliced into thin strips
• 1 small white onion, cut into wedges
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 shallot minced
• 2 tbsp cooking oil

Ingredients for the Stir-fry Sauce:

• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tsp vegetarian seasoning powder
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1/4 tsp five-spice powder
• 1/4 tsp pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 tsp cornstarch

Directions:

1.    Preparing the Mushrooms:

2.    Begin by soaking the sliced oyster mushrooms in lightly salted water for 5 minutes. Rinse well with clean water and drain thoroughly.

3.    Prepping the Betel Leaves:

4.    Wash the betel leaves, remove the stems, and slice the leaves into thin horizontal strips.

5.    Mixing the Stir-fry Sauce:

6.    In a small bowl, combine all the stir-fry sauce ingredients: water, vegetarian seasoning powder, soy sauce, sugar, five-spice powder, pepper, salt, and cornstarch. Mix well and set aside.

7.    Stir-frying the Mushrooms:

8.    Heat a pan over medium heat and add the cooking oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic, shallot and sauté until fragrant. Add the drained mushrooms and stir-fry for about 3 minutes, until they soften and turn white.

9.    Adding the Sauce and Vegetables:

10.                       Pour the stir-fry sauce into the pan and mix well with the mushrooms. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, if needed. Add the sliced betel leaves and onion wedges, stir quickly to combine, and then remove the pan from the heat.

11.                       Serving:

12.                       Transfer the stir-fried mushrooms and betel leaves to a serving plate. Enjoy with hot steamed rice.

Cinnamon Rolls Hack

Cinnamon rolls are one of my favorite sweet treats. While I have a great homemade cinnamon rolls recipe on my blog, I recently came across a quick and easy hack on TikTok using store-bought cinnamon rolls, and it turns out perfectly every time.

Ingredients:

• 1 can of store-bought cinnamon rolls (I use Pillsbury)
• 1/4 cup melted butter
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon powder
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

Equipment:

• 1 round or square 8” x 8” cake pan

Directions:

1.   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2.   Lightly spray the baking pan with butter spray.

3.   Open the can of cinnamon rolls and arrange them in the prepared baking pan.

4.   Pour the heavy cream into the spaces between the rolls.

5.   In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon powder. Drizzle this mixture over the top of the cinnamon rolls.

6.   Cover the pan with foil and bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the rolls comes out clean.

7.   Once baked, let the rolls cool slightly before spreading the icing that comes with the can over the top.

Enjoy these quick and delicious cinnamon rolls! You can double or triple this recipe for a larger party