Mark Reinfeld has been preparing inspired vegan and live food cuisine for over 15 years. He is the founding chef of Blossoming Lotus Restaurant and the recipient of a Platinum Carrot Award given to Americas top “trailblazing and innovative chefs." He is a recognized authority in the field of healthy cuisine. His first book, Vegan Fusion World Cuisine has won 9 international awards including a Gourmand Award for ‘Best Vegetarian Cookbook in the USA.' His latest book is The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Eating Raw. Soon to be published, The 30 Minute Vegan. Have a question for the natural chef? Please email mark@veganfusion.com

Mark Reinfeld--

After reading our first article on Going Green with Vegan Cuisine this Earth Day you might be convinced that including more vegan foods in your lifestyle is good for you and the planet. After reading our second article, you may feel empowered to introduce some of these foods. But where to begin?

Here we reveal one of the secret weapons in your efforts – dessert! Perhaps in no other category of food preparation does the light of vegan cuisine shine so brightly. Visit your local health food store or pick up a vegan cookbook to discover the bounty of rich and decadent sweets that can be created without using dairy or eggs. There are even several incredible brands of plant based ‘ice cream’ which are soy, rice or coconut based. Be sure to sample a few until you find your favorites.

Vegan baking has come a long way. Cow’s milk can be replaced with soy, rice and almond milk. Eggs can be replaced with ground flax seeds, applesauce and even blended silken tofu. For more information on vegan baking, check out our book, Vegan Fusion World Cuisine.

We leave you with one of the most popular recipes. You will never miss the dairy or eggs in these cookies and they are a guaranteed crowd pleaser. Serve them up at your Earth Day Celebration!

Mint Chocolate Chip Cookies

25 minutes prep/15 minute cook / 8 large cookies

Ingredients

Dry
2 cups spelt flour
1 cup vegan chocolate chips- try Sunspire brand
1 cup walnuts – chopped
3/4 cup rolled oats
1/2 tsp. sea salt
3/4 tsp. baking soda
1/8 tsp. cinnamon
1 pinch nutmeg

Wet
2/3 cup maple syrup
2/3 cup canola oil
2 Tbl. filtered water
1 tsp. peppermint extract

1. Preheat oven to 350 °F. Place dry ingredients in a large mixing bowl and mix well. Combine wet ingredients in another large bowl. Add wet to dry and mix well. Refrigerate for 15 minutes.

2. Place 8 scoops on a well oiled baking sheet and flatten slightly with hand. Space evenly so cookies have room to spread.

3. Bake until golden brown, approximately 10 minutes. Allow to cool before enjoying.

Green Nutrition For Earth Day