ayurvedic meal

Food from the Ayurvedic tradition has deep, unbroken roots in India. Ayurveda is a traditional healing system that incorporates food as medicine. These foods can feel like a helpful way to reset digestion and eating habits.

rice with peas, mint, and basil

Rinse 1 cup brown rice.

Pour into a cooking pot 3 cups water.

Bring to a boil; then reduce to simmer.

Add 1/2 teaspoon salt and 2 tablespoons ghee.

Simmer, covered, on low heat for 45 minutes.

Mince 2 large handfuls fresh basil and 1 small handful fresh mint.

When the rice is 5 minutes or less from completion, add:

• minced herbs

• 1/2 cup peas (either shelled ones or whole sugar snap peas)

When rice is cooked, add roasted beets and a splash of lemon juice. Mix everything together, taste for salt, and serve!

Simple Dahl

Rinse 2 cups yellow split lentils. Drain and bring to a boil with 5 cups water.

Reduce heat to medium and cook, uncovered, for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Skim off any white foam that develops and discard it.

In a skillet, heat 1 Tablespoon ghee or coconut oil with:

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon each: cumin and garam masala

• 1 teaspoon each: turmeric and coriander

Add vegetables such as beets, carrots, sweet potatoes, collards, kale and spinach to the skillet. Add 1 cup water, cover, and simmer on low heat for 15 minutes. Mix into the lentils, stir, and enjoy!

Raita

You will need:

1 large unpeeled cucumber, halved, seeded, coarsely grated

2 cups plain yogurt

1/4 cup (packed) chopped fresh mint OR cilantro

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

Salt to taste

Whisk yogurt, mint or cilantro, and cumin in medium bowl to blend. Add cucumbers and toss to coat. Season raita to taste with salt. Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours.

It can be prepared 1 day ahead. Keep refrigerated.

Cilantro/Mint Coconut Lime Chutney

In a food processor, place:

• 1 cup water

• 1/2 cup unsweetened, shredded coconut

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• Juice of one fresh lime

• 1 cup freshly chopped cilantro

• 1/4 cup freshly chopped mint

Blend at highest speed for 2 minutes.

Enjoy with rice and spicy dishes.