Healthy (no sugar) Zucchini/Carrot/Apple Bread

This fluffy moist zucchini bread recipe which I adapted by adding carrot & apple, is made healthier with whole grains, honey (or maple syrup) and coconut oil instead of butter. It is easily made vegan and/or gluten free (see notes). Recipe yields 1 large loaf or 3 mini loaves. A great breakfast bread or afternoon snack with tea. Guests wanted more.

INGREDIENTS

¾ cup roughly chopped raw walnuts or pecans (optional)
⅓ cup melted coconut oil or extra-virgin olive oil*
½ cup honey or maple syrup
2 eggs
½ cup milk of choice or water
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon + more to swirl on top
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
½ teaspoon fine-grain sea salt
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 ½ cups grated zucchini (you’ll need 1 small-to-medium zucchini, about 7 ounces—if your grated zucchini is very wet, squeeze out the excess moisture over the sink before stirring it into the batter). * I used a mix of zucchini, grated carrot and grated apple to make this recipe my own, and what I consider to taste even better.
1 ¾ cups white whole wheat flour or regular whole wheat flour
Photo: d. king

INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat oven to 325°F. Line a small, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, and grease a 9” x 5” loaf pan to prevent the bread from sticking.
Once the oven has finished preheating, pour the chopped nuts onto your prepared baking sheet. Bake until the nuts are fragrant and toasted, about 5 minutes, stirring halfway.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the coconut oil and honey. Beat them with a whisk until they are combined. Add the eggs and beat well. (If your coconut oil solidifies on contact with cold ingredients, simply let the bowl rest in a warm place for a few minutes, like on top of your stove, or warm it for about 20 seconds in the microwave.)
Add the milk, baking soda, cinnamon, vanilla, salt and nutmeg, and whisk to blend. Switch to a big spoon and stir in the zucchini (and/or grated carrot and apple), then add the flour and stir just until combined. Some lumps are ok! Gently fold in the toasted nuts now.
Pour the batter into your greased loaf pan and sprinkle lightly with additional cinnamon. If you’d like a pretty swirled effect, run the tip of a knife across the batter in a zig-zag pattern.
Bake for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the loaf pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool for 20 minutes before slicing it with a sharp, serrated knife.
This bread is moist, so it will keep for just 2 to 3 days at room temperature. Store it in the refrigerator for 5 to 7 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months or so. I like to slice the bread before freezing and defrost individual slices, either by lightly toasting them or defrosting them in the microwave. I dusted the tops with icing sugar (but you don’t need to – it just looks prettier).

A Note on Oils: I used unrefined coconut oil in this recipe. Olive Oil will lend an herbal note to the bread. Vegetable oil has a neutral flavor, but the average vegetable/canola oil is highly processed, so better to use cold-pressed sunflower or grapeseed oil if you prefer that.

MAKE IT VEGAN: Use maple syrup instead of honey, replace the eggs with flax eggs and choose non-dairy milk (I used almond milk) or water.
MAKE IT DAIRY FREE: Choose non-dairy milk (I used almond milk) or water.
MAKE IT EGG FREE: Replace the eggs with flax eggs.
MAKE IT GLUTEN FREE: I haven’t tried myself, but I have heard from a reader that Bob’s Red Mill’s all-purpose gluten-free mix worked well here.
MAKE IT LOWER IN FAT: Replace the oil with applesauce if you’re following a low-fat diet.

I had all positive reviews for tasters on this one, so I’m going to make it again. How about you? Do you have a favorite loaf/bread recipe?

Art, Architecture, Culture, Girl Who Would be King

Monday Mood Board #12

ART Immortal – the Holy Grail of art rediscoveries to be auctioned at Christie’s. If only I had an extra 100 million dollars to spare….

Leonardo da Vinci’s “**Salvator Mundi,**” unveiled recently at Christie’s. Credit: Jewel Samad/Agence France-Presse — Getty Images

In something of an auction coup, Christie’s has secured two blockbuster works for its November Contemporary sale: the last known Leonardo da Vinci in private hands, “Salvator Mundi” or “Savior of the World,” and Andy Warhol’s final silk-screen, “Sixty Last Suppers.” – The NY Times

Andy Warhol’s “**Sixty Last Suppers**,” at Christie’s New York. Credit: Ilya S. Savenok/Getty Images for Christie’s Auction House

The Leonardo da Vinci work is estimated at $100 million and the Warhol at $50 million. Each has been guaranteed by a third, undisclosed party.

Read the whole New York Times article here:

https://www.nytimes.com/2017/10/10/arts/design/christies-leonardo-da-vinci-and-warhol.html

PICASSO’S OLD ART SCHOOL

At the unchanged atelier of L’Académie de la Grande Chaumière, you might find yourself sitting in the very same chair where Pablo and a few of his friends, such as Manet and Cezanne, sat sketching their model a century ago. It’s open to the public for sketching workshops in the afternoon, Monday to Saturday, except on Wednesday when there’s an evening session from 7-10pm. No reservations are necessary, just show up with paper and pencils, no teacher, just the model. (14 rue de la Grande Chaumière, 6eme; See the ‘Free Workshop’ and ‘School’ sections of the website for all prices and timetables: grande-chaumiere.fr/en). Oh by the way, this is in Paris.

Channel Gabrielle, the eternal rebel (new Chanel perfume teaser) with a message

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OxYRrb7nJ9M

It’s madness out there

“The statistics on sanity are that one out of every four people is suffering from a mental illness. Look at your 3 best friends. If they’re ok, then it’s you.” – Rita Mae Brown

There is no great genius without some touch of madness – someone said.

Girl Who Would be King, Health + LifeStyle

Self Care: Dinner for One

I’m slowly getting back to some of the usual happy rituals that make my day complete. One is the enjoyment of cooking dinner.

Broccolini with shaved Vermont cheddar, baby potatoes & wild sockeye salmon with salsa verde (Botanica recipe posted on October 17th – absolutely delicious).

Over dinner (many times accompanied by a glass of wine) along with pleasant music playing in the background, there is conversation. Which means normally there’s another person to converse with. Someone who can talk about pretty much…anything, which makes the ritual that more gratifying. Of course I talk to the dogs but it’s not the same. They’re really not up on current affairs, however they’re very good listeners.

So it has taken me at least two months to get back into some kind of norm of cooking only for myself. It’s not that I don’t have the inclination to invite someone else to join me, it’s just that I feel the time has come to look after me, in the same way I used to do for two. So I went grocery shopping and thoughtfully put together a proper dinner, taking time to do so, incorporating healthful ingredients. And I enjoyed every bite. By myself.

I’m not gonna lie; I much prefer dinner for two. But there is something to having a routine even if it’s only meant for one. It brings meaning to everyday living. And besides, I enjoyed the company. Maybe next time I’ll try taking myself out on a date!

But really; looking after ourselves is as important as looking after another. Even if it’s not as much fun.

How about you? Do you take the time to make a nice meal just for yourself?

Wine + Dinner = Winner (image: d. king)

Girl Who Would be King, THINKAboutit

Words of Wisdom

On Life

Life Lessons from Het Patel

At the beginning of October 2016, Het wrote a list of his life lessons. Sadly, he died unexpectedly and suddenly two weeks later at the age of 37. The one year anniversary of his passing is coming up this month. I would like to share with you a selection from his 34 philosophical quotes on living. His life was cut short and he had so much more to give. But even in times of mourning there are moments to feel good about. Think about it:

Our brains are our greatest asset and our worst enemy.

A smile can hide the deepest pain.

The fabric of life is change. We can’t often stop it. We can’t always fight it. Acceptance is, most of the time, the best way to deal with change.

We barely understand ourselves, yet we’re confident that we can understand others. That’s kind of silly when you think about it.

The best moments in life are spent in the company of loved ones – regardless of what you’re doing.

Nothing in life has meaning, other than the meaning we put on it.

Accepting that we will die one day, is key to knowing how to live. – Het Patel

Life Lessons from Dogs

Living moment to moment, no worries whatsoever, an innocence, acceptance, playfulness and trust that escapes most of us humans. Refreshing! If only we could live like that!

We can all cope with the battles of today. It’s when we add the worry of tomorrow, and the regret of yesterday, that we break down. – Het Patel.

Have a happy weekend. No regrets!

beauty, Girl Who Would be King

Beauty in a Box

Useful, beautifully thought out items for women on the go. Courtesy of the Zoe Report.

Aside from the leather clutch/shoulder/computer bag here are the other items in the Fall Box of Style:

THE MANE MASTER

If you spent too much time in the sun and pool, Oribe’s Supershine Light Moisturizing Cream is here to rescue your summer-loved strands. Imbued with a heavenly scent, massage a small amount of this leave-in conditioner post-shower, or midday, for a silky treatment.

THE ONE-TWO PUNCH

Vegan and cruelty free, NUDESTIX gives you a natural way to get gorgeous. Their two-in-one crayon is moisturizing and vitamin-enriched — the perfect pick-me-up to give your lips and cheeks a pinch of color at a moment’s notice.

THE TRIPLE THREAT

The perfect travel skincare set. My skin looked fantastic after using it. Call in a weekend staycation, or fake a spa visit, with Skinesque’s multi-tasking mask. Paraben-free and dermatologist approved, it will brighten up your visage with skin-loving ingredients from green tea to bamboo and charcoal.

THE DYNAMIC DUO

A little luxury goes a long way, and these stackable baubles prove it. The choice item in the fall box, they deliver delicate diamonds on 14K Gold Plated Brass rings.

TRAY CHIC

Overhaul clutter and make a modern statement via this metallic tray. Whether placed atop your work desk, coffee table, or vanity, it will effortlessly elevate your space.

Order your box here (while supplies last) – http://boxofstyle.thezoereport.com/ Save $20 on your Fall order. Use CODE FALL20

Girl Who Would be King, STYLE

Style is in the Bag

THE MULTI-TASKER

GiGi New York Convertible Leather Clutch

Style meets Function

I’m still getting the Zoe Report Box of Style and it’s always fun to unwrap the fashionably curated and useful findings inside each seasonal box.

For Fall 2017 Rachel Zoe and her team have an

exclusive collaboration with GiGi New York

featuring a luxury carryall in unexpected navy which converts from a computer case by day to a chic clutch come night. Made of quality textured leather, it comes with a detachable strap for slinging across your shoulder for casual wear from office to evening. Of course the tassle sets it apart.

“Every woman is so incredibly busy, we need practical yet stylish pieces for every day.” Rachel Zoe

A new favorite fall companion! I’ll tell you about the rest of the box tomorrow.

Food + Drink, Girl Who Would be King

Food: BOTANICA

A healthful restaurant & market in L.A.

The restaurant uses this recipe to spoon over cooked Japanese sweet potatoes (purple skinned with white flesh kind). But you can use the salsa for multiple uses; fish especially. Spoon generously over the potatoes or fish. Garnish with cilantro. Yum!

Salsa Verde

Makes about 1½ cups

1 large shallot, minced
1 tablespoon sherry vinegar
1 large clove garlic, minced
1 bunch parsley, finely chopped (tender stems are okay, too!)
1 bunch cilantro, finely chopped (ditto)
2 tablespoons capers, roughly chopped
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1 cup delicious olive oil
Sea salt

Place shallots and sherry vinegar in a medium jar, stir, and set aside to soak for 15 minutes. Drain the vinegar (we think this gives just the right amount of acidity) and reserve (in case you want to add it back in for more acidity), then add the rest of the ingredients to the jar and stir well. Add a nice pinch of salt and a couple grinds of pepper. Stir again and taste: You’re looking for a balance of acid, salinity, and herby freshness. If it tastes too harsh, add a few more splashes of olive oil. If you want it punchier, add a bit of the vinegar back in. It’ll keep in your fridge for a couple of weeks, but the chances of it lasting that long are slim!

LA is a veritable Eden, and the vegetables and fruits that we’re able to buy locally never fail to amaze us. What better way to eat than to celebrate what’s beneath our noses? If we can inspire someone to get excited about produce, or to shop at the farmers’ market — that feels influential.

Taken from Atelier Doré, an integrated creative studio + website @ http://www.atelierdore.com/

Girl Who Would be King

Monday Mood Board #11

Happy Birthday Dad!

My dad, my dad & me, as a toddler with my parents

My dad died 25 years ago, only six months after my mom passed away. I’ve been feeling very nostalgic lately, especially after having just lost my husband of 25 years (timing was good and bad the year we got married) and a close friend three months before him. But we humans do find strength and manage to carry on with our day and get through it, no matter how painful.

Allan King, my dad, was many things. He was warm and generous with a wicked sense of humor and had an adventurous spirit. He loved kids and animals. But he was also unconventional, complicated and restless. He loved a good card game and played for money. Red was his favorite color. He was extremely smart. He skipped grades at school and as a result hung out with an older crowd. He got bored easily. My mom always said she knew him better than he knew himself but even so, didn’t really know him. Maybe that’s what kept them together.

He was born in Russia of Jewish descent and emigrated to New York as a young boy. He spent many years in Manhattan before deciding to move to Ottawa, then Montreal, where he met my mother. He loved everything Montreal. He was friends with Lorne Greene (Bonanza + Wild Kingdom whom he met in Ottawa) and knew William Shatner. He knew a lot of people.

With my grandfather (mothers side) & their dog Prince.

His easy come, easy go carefree attitude was daunting to some, and at the same time admirable, as he lived life on his own terms.

With my grandmother (mothers side) and my mom.

He got lots of speeding tickets and refused to wear a seat belt. He smoked but never touched alcohol (except for the occasional toast).

He was compared to handsome actor John Garfield (Postman Always Rings Twice…..)

I would stay up late and watch the Tonight Show and old movies with him, even though I should’ve been in bed.

Main thing I remember was that he cared about us and that’s really what mattered most.

I miss him and will celebrate him in spirit.

FUN, Girl Who Would be King

Feel-good Friday: Listen up

My friend went to Cuba and all she brought back was this fine bunch of Cubans. They’re called Brisas del Palmar.

If you live in Vancouver you have the opportunity to watch them perform this evening. I’ve seen them before – they’re amazing! In Vancouver for one concert only before returning back to Cuba for Fall/Winter is EL GRUPO CUBANO – BRISAS del PALMAR.

Fresh from engagements in Victoria: these Cuban musical ambassadors have performed for the Pope and granted diplomatic passports to represent Cuba in international music competitions. Their traditional music and danceable tunes are featured daily on the nationally broadcast Radio Taino. Their winter engagements include Bodequita del Medio, the Havana bar made famous by Ernest Hemingway! Yes, I’ve been there too. And yes, I had a daiquiri (a temporary departure from mojitos). Havana little more:

Where: St. James Hall – 3214 West 10th Ave., Vancouver, B.C.

When: Friday, October 13th at 8 pm. They start on time. Doors open at 7:30.

Cost: $20 at the door

Sampling: 5 years ago at the Vogue Theatre:

PURE FEEL GOOD MUSIC

Girl Who Would be King

Feel-good Friday: Give Thanks

For a little Inspiration from A-Z. DARE TO . . .

Ask for what you want.

Believe in yourself.

Change your mind.

Do what you love.

Enjoy each and every day.

Follow your heart’s desire.

Give more than you receive.

Have a sense of humor.

Insist on being yourself

Join in more.

Kiss and make up.

Love and be loved.

Make new friends.

Nurture your spirit.

Overcome adversity.

Play more.

Question conformity.

Reach for the stars.

Speak your truth.

Take personal responsibility.

Understand more, judge less.

Volunteer your time.

Walk through fear.

Xperience the moment.

Yearn for grace.

Be Zany.