Knead to Cook

Food & fitness obsessed girl.

Crispy Baked Spicy Tofu. The best. Vegan & GF.

by Filed Under: Asian inspired, Gluten Free, Tofu, Vegan, Vegan proteins, Wheat Free

Good day sweet friends! Today for my food prep I finally decided to document my go-to spicy baked crispy tofu cubes. I haven’t made this in about 2 months… with the move, cooking wasn’t a priority. I go back to work this week and I wanted to fill my fridge with tons of easy and quick meal ideas.

Okay less ramblings… let’s get to this!

Ingredients:
2 extra firm blocks of Wildwood tofu (drained and no need to press)
1/4 cup of liquid aminos
1 tbl of avocado or whatever oil you prefer
Depending on your spice preference, use 2 tbl to 1/4 cup of spicy chili paste (I get mine at Target or the Asian market)
1 tbl of smoked paprika
2 tbl of cornstarch
4-6 cloves of chopped garlic
1 nub of fresh ginger, peeled and finely diced

Method:

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees. Get a baking sheet ready to go. This is one of those toss it all in the bowl and mix. I add all of the sauce/marinade components and whisk. Then I cube my two blocks of tofu. Add to the bowl and toss to coat ensuring the cornstarch powder is blended well.

Once your oven is preheated, with a slotted spoon remove the tofu (attempting to drain as much of the marinade as possible) and add the tofu to your baking sheet.

Bake for 25-30 minutes tossing occasionally. The edges should be golden brown and crispy yet a soft interior. Remove and allow to cool completely before putting in an airtight container with a lid for storage in the fridge.

I add these cubes to power bowls, salads, pastas or eat straight out of the container. I hope you enjoy!

~ox

— Knead to Cook

Mushroom recipe for those who hate mushrooms.

by Filed Under: Brunch, Gluten Free, Vegan, Vegan proteins, Wheat Free

I’m not a mushroom fan however I know the vast benefits to them. Vitamin D source. They contain two high concentrations of powerful antioxidants are known to support keeping us young! These powerhouses, ergothioneine and glutathione, are also known to protect against Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases in a recent study conducted by Penn State University. They support your heart and your mind. Can assist in bone strength. And they support your energy levels. Now to get over that texture thing…

We moved! We downsized much of last year and decided to sell our house and move into the city. I’ll cover this in the future in a multiple post series but for now, we are settled and a local restaurant/adaptogenic coffee/tea joint in my neighborhood was teaming up with a local mushroom farmer to offer shares to pick up. I jumped at the chance. New year… I’m working on eating more mushrooms for my health. I venmo’d the farmer & last Saturday picked up my share of mushrooms. One pound to be exact. We had oysters, chestnut, lion’s mane… and others that I don’t know or remember. But here’s a pic of all of their glory!

I mean come on… they’re beautiful! Okay so my recipe is a loose version meaning add more or less spice. It’s a very flexible process. Let’s go!

Ingredients:
1 pound of mixed mushrooms, chopped fairly thin (think thinner – crispier)
1 tbl of a neutral oil, I used avocado
1-2 tbl of a spice blend you love – I used a fancy old bay inspired seafood spice blend
Pinch of salt
2 tsp of liquid smoke

Method:
Heat a good, thick pan – I used cast iron with the oil you prefer, over the flame to get it quite hot. CAREFULLY add your mushrooms avoiding spatter as much as possible. I cannot stress this enough. I add the seasoning mid way through cooking. And again, go heavier or lighter depending on your spice level you prefer. I’m normally very heavy handed. I cooked, for several minutes before stirring. Repeat until the mushrooms are cooked down a lot. I probably cooked them for 12 minutes or more. The edges get very crispy. Then add the liquid smoke. Cook for another 3-4 minutes. Then remove from heat and allow to cool in the pan. Now taste test and if they need more time, cook longer. I added these to pasta, to my salad… just snacked on them. So damn good! One word of advice, don’t store in a container, just put in a bowl and store without a lid. They soften a lot when a lid is placed on them. If you need to re-crunch them back up day 2 (yes I know re-crunch isn’t a word) add them to your air fryer at 350 for 4 minutes.

— Knead to Cook

Smoky lentil stew. Vegan.

by Filed Under: Gluten Free, Indian-inspired., Pantry, Soups, Vegan, Wheat Free

Going to be super honest, I’m sharing because this has been our go-to weekly meal prep idea this fall but I’m not spending the required time to stage and make this post picture perfect. Life is busy, hectic and crazy. We are in the midst of selling our lives, packing what’s left and getting ready to move. Blogging recipes has not been on my radar with all that going on plus working. However, this one is too good not to share so let’s go!

Ingredients:

2 tbl of a neutral oil (I used walnut and avocado)
1 large yellow onion, diced
4 medium carrots, diced
2 ribs of celery, diced (I add if I have it)
6-10 garlic cloves, minced (I lately have been adding whole cloves that are small and about 20 of them)
2 cups of brown or green lentils, rinsed
1-2 large potatoes, cubed (I use whatever I have on hand)
7 cups of veggie broth
2 tbl of Dijon mustard
1 tbl Worcestershire (make sure it’s vegan) sauce
1 tbl smoked paprika
2 bay leaves
1-2 tsp salt
1 tsp thyme
1 tsp rosemary
1-2 cups of fresh or frozen peas

Method:

Into a large Dutch oven or stock pot, add your oil and heat over medium heat. Then add your onion, carrots and celery. Cook, stirring often, for about 6 minutes until cooked. Then add your garlic, lentils, potatoes, broth, mustard, Worcestershire, paprika, bay leaves, thyme, and Rosemary. Bring to a boil. I only add the peas right before serving so they don’t get mushy.

Once it’s been simmering for about 3-4 minutes, I reduce the heat, cover and let it cook for up to several hours. Right before you serve, add your peas.

Serve with a good crusty bread and enjoy! You can refrigerate the leftovers for a quick and easy meal all week.

Okay back to packing! Love ya bye!

— Knead to Cook

2020 Holiday Gift Guide Small Businesses.

by Filed Under: Gift ideas, Holiday, Holiday Gift Guides

I keep saying I’m done but yet, here we are again. I couldn’t forget my favorites. Small businesses you can support online! Great gifts. Great prices. Let’s go!

I couldn’t resist the White Paws dog toys. They are a bit more resistant to soft toy destroying dogs. So they do last longer! Squeakers added for more dog fun 🙂 Funny spin for the adult dog parents who love their White Claws.

Admittedly, I love smudging my house. It’s a way to energetically cleanse a space. Negative energy, I smudge. New home… you bet I’m doing it. I have a jar on my windowsill with my Palo Santo. This is a small business owned set of Palo Santo and it’s a great price and a great way to help a small business out.

Anyone who needs a fun little stocking stuffer or small under $15 gift (closer to $11 with the coupon code). This lip scrub I personally own, need more of, is phenomenal. Small business and black owned company.

Recycled wine bottle glasses. Calling all wine enthusiasts! What a lovely gift for newlyweds, parents, friends, relatives… $25 and it really is a unique gift idea.

Beard balm for the guys! Great stocking stuffer or small gift exchange idea. Maybe even Santa would love this one!

One of the most on-trend styles now and this version is quite affordable. Personalized necklace. Think of a new momma on your list, teen, young lady. It’s lovely, great price and so thoughtful.

This hair mask is on my gift list for someone special. Perfect self care gift or stocking stuffer.

Any sports fans on your list? Kids? Teens? A small business owner, who is also a teen, created these in various sports and they are adorable!

Another great black owned small business. This Piri Piri seasoning is phenomenal on roasted vegs, tofu… or whatever protein you’re using. Great for the cook on your list. Stocking stuffer idea for the grill master. Something a bit different than the usual.

I’m trying to squeeze as many ideas on this guide as possible. A military owed business that creates yummy, healthy dog treats. Various flavors but these are our pups favorites apple and hemp. Vegan too!

I bought this set for Bill (hopefully he doesn’t see this). I love the meaning behind it and wanted to share. Great price. Would work for males and females and let’s face it… who doesn’t need protection from negative right now?


This Tibetan bracelet puts focus on the Red colors in the jewelry, which is known to be able to attract good fortune both in your personal life and in your business endeavors. 
By wearing this bracelet all of the time, you can ward off all of these negative effects to help improve upon the quality of your life. This is all due to the belief that the red string helps to absorb negative energy to transmute it into something positive for you to enjoy. 


That’s a wrap! Enjoy and Happy Thanksgiving! ~ox



— Knead to Cook

2020 Holiday Gift Guide: Stocking Stuffers

by Filed Under: Holiday, Holiday Gift Guides

You all know I’m big fan of the ear cuffs. This cuff adds a fun bit of interest without an additional piercing. Would work any teen, young lady right on up as a gift! And the price point is perfect.

This has been on my Amazon list forEVER and a day and once we move, I need to buy it. A USB charged lighter for candles. Genius and reduces waste. I’m here for it! ANYONE (well not kids, on your list would fully use this!).

When I stumbled upon my favorite masks on line, I started to check out their other products. I bought these hair ties and immediately fell in love as they don’t create bumps and humps in my hair. They last a long time and let’s face it, anyone who has medium to long hair always needs new ties! These don’t damage the hair. The coils hold it perfectly in place. Great price too!

Harney and Sons has been my go-to tea for about 10 years. It’s pretty much all I drink. This set is perfect for the holidays, being peppermint flavored, however also serves as a lovely digestive aid during the period of over consumption during the holiday season.

Not being a fan of animal products, I found a satin option. Satin pillowcases help prevent wrinkles, damaging your hair etc. This set includes 2 and is priced below $10 and has over 86k reviews 4.5 star reviews!

CBD. In particular, my favorite Ikthus CBD gummies or tincture make the perfect gift! I use daily to restore balance, help with pain management, reduce stress and anxiety and help me sleep. Win. My discount code gets you 15% off (code: Knead) and it’s on sale!

This mix is the BOMB! Its so good and I have it on repeat purchase. Hot cacao with turmeric mix. I put it in milk frother or just add hot milk. Top with whipped cream. It is so good and a lovely gift.

Blue light glasses. Everyone needs them! This set of 2 is less than $11 on sale now. Over 14k 4.5 star reviews. Another staple when we are at home on the computer or watching tv. Great as a gift or stocking stuffer.

I dare you to go look at this product, watch the video (a must) and tell me this isn’t the coolest thing ever! Like a cathartic activity for teens or adults. I may need this.

Final items and when don’t we need to calm the body? Hello 2021 isn’t looking any better than 2020. Baths on tap to relax and restore the body. EVERYONE can use this one. A indulgent item that will be appreciate by you or whomever you gift this to.

~ox

— Knead to Cook

2020 Holiday Gift Guide: Luxe gifts for the girls

by Filed Under: Gift ideas, Holiday Gift Guides

You asked for it, I did it for you. Prices range from $100 right up to $900. Indulgence at every price point. Okay, let’s get started.

These earrings are a beautiful twist on a classic stud. Black and white…you cannot go wrong! I feel like these are timeless and perfect for any woman in your life or yourself! Edgy and classic… the perfect combination.

This stackable ring that can be personalized & has endless possibilities. I love this so much for new brides, moms or grandparents.

Classic and understated. This heart pendant can be from your love, your children, your parents or your bestie.

I’ve always been a big fan of classic styled jewelry. This necklace is a bit of a departure from the classic single stone pendant. It has such a beautiful presence. I adore this necklace!

This is my favorite fall go-to jacket. Warm, cozy and rain and wind proof. It lasts forever and is well worth the investment.

Cozy robe anyone? We all need to replace our robes as its the one thing that just gets so tattered and at least I am, so reluctant to replace it. This beauty is luxurious, class and perfect.

Calling all coffee drinkers… this is the Rolls Royce of at home espresso makers. Looking for the ultimate gift you’ll use daily… here it is!

The genesis of me doing a luxe guide for the ladies were a few friends of my Insta stories commenting on my jewelry. I wear a sapphire and diamond band ring that Bill got me for our 10th anniversary and although I’ve never seen it anywhere ever, which is why I love the uniqueness of it, this ring is a beautiful classic. I am a big fan of sapphires and diamonds together. This ring also comes in other stones. Would be perfect worn alone or with your wedding set. STUNNING!

You wanted luxury… well this one doesn’t disappoint. Bill got me a similar ring, different metal to match my wedding ring, last Christmas. I’ve worn it for a year now and still love it. It’s spendy but a classic Cartier ring.
~ox

— Knead to Cook

2020 Holiday Gift Guide: Quarantining at home gift ideas

by Filed Under: Gift ideas, Holiday Gift Guides

This new pedicure system was newly released and I’m here for it. If you’ve followed my Instagram, I’ve been doing my manicures weekly and their polish is the BEST! Their polishes last with hard core use of your hands, for at least a week!

I know this one is a bit of a splurge but I’m all for spending and investing in something you absolutely love and will use. Well with months of isolation upon us again, a television has been a staple for Netflix binges. We recently bought a home with the most incredible millwork on the focal wall and we decided to buy this tv. The tv, while not in use, serves as a piece of artwork v. a big black box on your wall. It mounts flush to the wall and blends in perfectly. You can actually buy artwork or upload photos or your favorites right onto the screen. Etsy has a ton of seasonal/artwork/etc. for about $4 per image.

Bedding. We’ve all been there. You buy a set at Target or Homegoods. It’s okay. Eventually it’s not and you need to replace it. Around our anniversary we decided to buy a lovely set from Boll & Branch and we couldn’t be happier. The quality. The feel. It’s magical. Just goes to prove when you invest in something it will serve you a long time.

We’re cooking more and eating out less. This style vegetable knife is by far my favorite! Great gift for anyone who loves to cook on your list!

To pair up with the knife, this bar has been a game-changer for me. I cook, a lot. I mounted this on the outside of one of my upper cabinets and have about 4 or 5 knives on it. It protects their blades. It keeps them handy. Another great under $20 gift for any cook on your list.

Let’s get cozy for a winter walk or by the fireplace shall we? Oh this jacket! I have a zip up version of this wear it all the time. To work, home, for walks with the pups. My version is long sold out but this is the same but a full zip. The tan is gorgeous in person.Washes perfectly (I air dry then fluff for 5 mins in the dryer). There isn’t a teen or woman on your list who wouldn’t love this and around $30… it’s a great gift.

Let’s not forget the men! They need warm & cozy too! The men’s version comes in a ton of patterns and colors. I’d recommend sticking with a solid color for neutrality. It would work for grandpa, father-in-law, dad, brother… your sister’s boyfriend you need to buy for – you get the point.

Readers out there? I got a Kindle last year and it has been everything! I’ve far surpassed my book goal for the year a few months ago. Downloading books is so easy and fast. It’s a great gift for anyone who loves to read.

This was Bill’s contribution! He wants to get this for our new house, we have a small backyard…. Small fire pit for some outdoor, socially distanced activity. Roasting marshmallows, chatting by the fire. Finding different things to do during our time at home is so important right now. We have this one in our cart!

— Knead to Cook

2020 Holiday Gift Guide: Gifts under $50

by Filed Under: Gift ideas, Holiday

This neck massager is something everyone can use during this year of stress. This massager can be moved in multiple different areas of your body to help soothe, warm and relax tense muscles. We should all be so lucky to get this one!

Candle set is from Illume and these scents are something I clammer for each and every holiday season. The wood fire captures the aroma of a blazing fire. Winter white encapsulates everything reminiscent of the holidays. And balsam and cedar takes you to the great outdoors. Refreshing and fresh.

Ultimate joy in this milk frother I use this each and every morning. We use it for matcha and turmeric lattes. It froths and warms perfectly. It is the ultimate comfort gift.

The quintessential travel mug. Water to coffee… whatever you need to stay hot or cold to get you through the day! Hydroflask for the win!

I think a lot of people got into puzzles during quarantine. And with that not being over, this puzzle is actually on my list for someone special. Difficulty is up there! Plus 1000 pieces. Great price for a nice gift that will surely be enjoyed for many hours.

I’m a sucker for food gifts. How about a more indulgent, high quality maple syrup paired up with a pancake mix? Something a little different but I promise, something that will be enjoyed for weekend brunches at home.

This collection of dried fruit and nuts, I’m here for it. I love food gifts, go figure. I feel like it isn’t something most splurge on but they appreciate when they receive it.

Wine lover on your list? At Winc you can build a box for under $50 (first box promo). Perfect sampler wine gift idea. This is on my gift list for a special duo.

And the final gift idea is super luxe and cozy, perfect for the holidays, snuggling and quarantining under this furry blanket. Netflix and chill!

Two gift guides down… 2 to go!

~ox

— Knead to Cook

2020 Holiday Gift Guide: For the hard to buy for…

by Filed Under: Gift ideas, Holiday, Holiday Gift Guides

This sleep headphones headband

Admittedly, this is a very random gift but one that will intrigue. A set of lightbulbs that when on, looking like flames. How cool to put outside on your light post or porch light? Reminiscent of the old gas lights. I’m digging these.

Okay if you haven’t gotten a Ring doorbell now is the time! We were hesitant forever to get it and now our new house will be completely outfitted with this magical recording device. You can monitor activity outside your home, verbally respond to someone at your door… records activities with night vision so yeah. It’s a fun yet practical gift you won’t want to live without.

I may have gotten this for my girls. How cool is this USB charger???? I’m dying. So unique and so fun. Under $15! Who couldn’t you give this to?

Think about the people on your list who walk early or late. Have a dog that they are strolling around the neighborhood with? Someone who loves to tinker around and needs extra light? This hat is perfect and a bargain around $10!

We have the small screenless Alexa‘s but now is the time to upgrade. The price is great. Think about family, social distancing and video calling??!! Watching cooking videos… sky’s the limit.

Have a coffee or tea drinker? In laws? Grandparents? This heated mug is perfect. Keeps the beverage in the cup hot for 1.5 hrs on a single charge. I feel like this gift works for pretty much everyone!

I wanted to share a gift for kids or adults! These bike wheel lights. So much fun! Great pricing. Great gift under $15 for any bike riders on your list.

~ox

— Knead to Cook

2020 Holiday Gift Guide for the Fitness Lover.

by Filed Under: Gift ideas, Health & wellness, Holiday, Holiday Gift Guides

I’ll be honest… we aren’t doing a big production Christmas this year. We sold our house a month ago (pending) and close mid December. We close on our new home the same day. We are downsizing, like BIG time, and because we bought a row home in the city, built in 1857 but completely gutted and renovated, we need to downsize our lives and furniture to fit! We’ve been selling every bit of furniture, donating and tossing possessions. With that, we have warned everyone in our family that the holidays will be quite simple this go-around. Plus with Covid, it will only be us, no in-laws, extended family or friends. No parties. Nothing. Small and simple is the theme, pretty much for all of 2020.

With that in mind, I wasn’t planning on gift guides but have had a ton of requests so I’m going to do a few good ones for you all. Let’s get started. Affiliate links to each product listed below.

Links:
These fitness cards would be an awesome addition to anyone’s gym. Perfect for the newbie or experienced fitness lover. Great new exercises or old favorites.

Always a winner, the newest Apple watch. This is on my wish list. My watch is a few versions ago and the oxygen blood level monitoring is mind-blowing. A tech fitness fan favorite for sure! And I gravitate towards the 44 because I love a big watch.

Thera guns are great but can be quite pricey! This version is a mini with a more tolerable price point! So great on sore muscles all over your body!

Apple air pod pro’s are on my daughter’s list this year. They are one of my favorites. They stay in my ears without causing ear pain. Sweat doesn’t cause them to fall out. Pair nicely with my Peloton and phone. My go-to!

This weighted jump rope is the PERFECT addition to your gym. Weighted jump ropes far exceed traditional jump ropes to boost your muscle and fitness. Built to boost muscle, fitness and endurance!

I cannot forget my runners out there. The phone dilemma. Carry it or not?! I hated to but the safety aspect is huge nowadays. This arm band has been receiving great reviews! Great price point and the perfect gift for anyone who hikes or runs!

I got a pair of these leggings and also here for more color options earlier in the year and I have to admit they are a dream! Wash and wear perfectly. Not see-through. So amazingly comfy! Tons of colors! I’m a convert.

Bill owns these. I got a pair. Then I loved them so much I got my dad a pair. Seriously one of the best pairs of sneakers (and here) I’ve ever owned.

And my favorite of all, the Peloton. We upgraded to the bike + in September. We received it in October. We are in love. The speakers, the swivel screen, the Apple connectivity. ALL OF IT. No words. When ordering, if you desire, you can use my referral code, which gets you and me $100 credit to use towards accessories or apparel.

Code: EY2RNX

So one gift guide down… more to come! Stay tuned.

~ox

— Knead to Cook