All-Natural Mint Chocolate Chip Smoothie

I've planted myself a garden a few times over the years with some pretty good success. Nothing close to the farmers I've interviewed, OBVIOUSLY, but I've always loved the connection it brings me to nature.

During my first day at Ballymaloe Cookery School's 12 week program we planted a lettuce seedling. They thought it was important to let us see how much energy and time goes into making our food. 

I thought this was brilliant! I think everyone should give gardening a chance, even if it's just herbs! 

I was so happy to develop this recipe for all of you since it uses mint, a herb that goes WILD in the garden with some kale and cocoa nibs. 

Mint Chocolate Chip Smoothie

Serves 1

1 cup Cashew Milk
1.5 Frozen Bananas
10 Mint Leaves
1/2 cup Kale Leaves
2 tsp Cocoa Nibs

Honestly, mint chocolate chip ice cream is my #1 flava (ok, besides cherry maybe..) so this smoothie is such a #&$+ing treat!

 I hope you enjoy!

Potatoes & Mushrooms with Fried Egg | First Day at Ballymaloe Cookery School

Ottawa - Toronto - Amsterdam - Cork

I landed. I was tired. I was the first to arrive at cooking school and was welcomed by...

So I was hungry and made the following.

Golden Potato Coins with
Fried Onions, Mushrooms and A Sunny Side Egg

gluten free, primal | serves 1

2 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced
1/2 cm width-wise
1/2 cup sliced white mushrooms
1 small onion sliced thin
2 tbsp butter
1 farm fresh egg
salt and pepper to taste

Heat 1 tbsp butter in a heavy bottomed frying pan on medium high heat. Add in your potatoes (they should look like coins) and fry until golden brown on one side (5min) then flip and fry until cooked through (5-7min). Toss in salt and fresh ground pepper to taste.

Remove potatoes to a plate with paper towel (warmed, ideally) and melt in the rest of the butter (1 tbsp) until melted. Add in mushrooms and onions and sautee until cooked through (about 3min).

When cooked, move the onions and mushrooms to the side of the pan and add the egg. Cook until the white part of the egg is opaque (about 3min). Add salt to taste.

Add Potatoes in a large bowl, add mushrooms and onions, then top with the egg. Add salt and pepper to taste.

The next day we had our orientation dinner.

We had pizza but I had the gluten free version:

A week's of classes ahead!