Every time I share a delightful recipe or showcase my cooking online, I receive a flood of questions and comments. This overwhelming response has inspired me to compile a list of my essential culinary staples that I frequently use in my kitchen.
All the recipes I will present are either vegetarian or vegan, offering flexibility for you to modify them according to your dietary preferences and taste. Whether you want to keep it plant-based or add some of your favorite ingredients, the choice is entirely yours.
One of my top obsessions that I always keep stocked in my fridge is lime water. This refreshing drink is not only invigorating but also offers numerous health benefits. It serves as a natural detoxifier for the stomach, helps maintain an alkaline balance in the body, and provides a refreshing twist that keeps me energized throughout the day.
Hearty and Flavorful Spicy Lentil Soup Recipe
I’ve been preparing this spicy lentil soup for years, and it has become a staple in our household. I prefer to make dishes that can last for at least two days, allowing for easy meal prep. This soup is divine when paired with some warm, crusty bread. For those who enjoy a kick, adding cayenne pepper is essential.
You can also enhance this soup by incorporating chunks of potato or sweet potato. Fresh spinach added on top gives it a vibrant color and extra nutrition. For a creamy texture, some people enjoy adding a dollop of coconut cream, although I typically skip this step. However, feel free to customize it to your liking!
To be completely transparent, this delicious recipe comes from my dear friend Jacqui. It has become our go-to winter soup, as my daughters often come home from school asking, “Can you please make lentil soup?” Just a note, the photo used here is not mine; I sourced it from the internet, so the final dish may look a bit different.
Ingredients:
1 x onion diced
2 x garlic cloves, crushed
1 x carrot diced
1 tsp ground cumin + 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
1 tsp salt
1 tsp pepper
1/4-1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1 cup red lentils
6 cups stock
1/4 cup tomato paste
*Consider doubling this recipe to ensure you have plenty of leftovers!
Begin by browning the diced onion and garlic in a tablespoon of olive oil. Add the ground cumin, salt, pepper, cayenne, and garlic, cooking for a minute to release the spices’ fragrant aromas. Next, incorporate the tomato paste and cook for an additional minute.
Now, toss in the lentils, diced carrot, zucchini, and stock. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce to a simmer for approximately 20-30 minutes or until the lentils are tender. Once cooked, allow the soup to cool slightly, then blend a few cups until smooth to create a creamy consistency.
Return the blended soup to the pot, stir well, and serve it up with some warm bread for a cozy meal!
Deliciously Moist Lemon Poppyseed Cake Recipe
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup cake flour
2 1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp kosher salt
2 tbsp poppy seeds
1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
2 tbsp lemon zest
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
4 large eggs, room temp
1/3 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (2–3 lemons)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk, room temp
1/4 cup sour cream, room temp
8 oz full-fat cream cheese, room temp
1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temp
4 cups powdered sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Lemon curd (homemade or store-bought)
To begin, whisk together the all-purpose flour, cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, kosher salt, and poppy seeds in a mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, combine the milk and sour cream.
In a large mixing bowl, add the granulated sugar and lemon zest. Use your fingers to rub the zest into the sugar, releasing its fragrant oils. Next, whisk in the vegetable oil and melted butter, followed by the eggs, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and vanilla extract for a burst of flavor.
Pour in half of the dry ingredient mixture and whisk until just combined. Right before it’s fully mixed, add the milk and sour cream, whisking until smooth. Incorporate the remaining dry ingredients and whisk until everything is perfectly blended and smooth.
Carefully pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean with a few moist crumbs clinging to it. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to ensure a beautiful finish.
In a mixing bowl, using either a handheld or stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, cream together the room-temperature cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually incorporate the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, followed by the vanilla extract for added flavor.
Once the cake has cooled, gently lift it out of the pan and generously spread a layer of cream cheese frosting over the top. For a delightful twist, scoop small spoonfuls of lemon curd all over the surface and swirl it into the frosting for a visually appealing finish. Top with a sprinkle of poppy seeds for an elegant touch and enjoy this delectable treat!
Revitalizing Sonya’s Sunday Facial Routine
Cleanse
I start my facial routine with a double cleanse using the Super Citrus Cleanser, ensuring my skin is free of impurities and makeup.
Exfoliate
Next, I follow with my favorite exfoliator, the Super Acai Scrub. I also apply this on my neck and décolletage, and it leaves my skin feeling incredibly smooth. A little tip for those with sensitive skin: you can emulsify the scrub in your hands to lessen the exfoliation intensity while still reaping the benefits.
Mask
I then apply my Face Compost mask, mixing it with Glory Oil. This combination works wonders, particularly under my eyes, helping to brighten the area—a little hack that I love to use!
During this time, I typically enjoy a dance, often to “Bring Me Some Water” by Melissa Etheridge, which adds a joyful element to my self-care routine.
Serums
After masking, I cleanse my face again and apply Serum of Plenty followed by Serum of Clear to nourish and rejuvenate my skin.
Eye Compost
The Eye Compost Cream is fantastic for brightening the eye area, packed with active anti-aging ingredients like Bakuchiol that specifically target wrinkles and fine lines.
Moisturize
To finish off my facial routine, I apply a combination of Super Fruit Hydrator and Glory Oil to lock in moisture and leave my skin feeling soft and hydrated.
