I don't know about you, but the sight and smell of mac and cheese brings me back to my childhood days of creamy comfort food at its finest.
It's been so fun to discover how to create a healthier version of this vis-a-vis the brain tissue boosting power of walnuts (which are also great for your nervous system), as well as carrots and potatoes!
Serves 2-4.
CHEESE SAUCE INGREDIENTS:
2 yellow or sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
1 carrot, peeled and chopped
1/2 teaspoon kalonji seeds
1/4 teaspoon hing
1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
3/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon Himalayan pink rock salt
1/2 cup walnuts, ideally soaked in hot water for 2 hours and rinsed
1 tablespoon white sesame seeds
2-3 tablespoons lemon juice
3-4 tablespoons water
MAC AND CHEESE INGREDIENTS:
1 big bunch of spinach
Your favorite pasta, rice or alternative grain
1 cup chopped sweet heirloom tomatoes (optional - if you don't have autoimmune issues; if so, omit these)
METHOD:
Boil potatoes for 3 minutes. Then add carrots and boil for another 5-6 minutes.
Add boiled veggies and water to a blender. Add the rest of the sauce ingredients and blend to get a creamy cheese sauce consistency.
Cook pasta, rice or whatever grain you're using according to the directions. Add the cheese sauce to it once cooked and drained. Mix well. Add the spinach and tomatoes.
Garnish with your choice of basil leaves, parsley leaves, cilantro leaves, whatever you like best.
Before you eat this delicious meal, take a moment to close your eyes. Smile for a moment. Feel the deep peace that is your true nature. Breathe deeply. And savor each bite.
To learn how to make this and other wonderful recipes (and cook along in your kitchen), as well as immerse yourself in Ayurveda lifestyle, do also consider joining The Ancient Way's Wellness Ambassador Program starting March 26th, 2022, to heal yourself and spread the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda in your community.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
ANANTA RIPA AJMERA is founder and CEO of The Ancient Way and Advisor of Ayurveda at THE WELL, a modern wellness club that brings together world-class doctors and master healers for a more balanced you. She is author of The Ayurveda Way, a compilation of 108 simple, doable practices for better sleep, less stress, optimal digestion and more.