Ooey, Gooey, Chocolatey, Chewie Brownies!

Jenny made the most delicious gluten-free and vegan brownies as take-away gifts for a baby shower we put on a few weeks back. She used this wonderful mix that can be bought at Whole Foods and online. But wait, it gets better. For frosting, she used the recipe on the back of the bag but substituted the butter with coconut spread and water for coconut milk, then added a bit of coconut extract and sprinkled coconut flakes on the top. Coconut and chocolate?! I can't think of anything better. I snuck a couple of extras into my purse on the way out, don't tell.

Gluten-Free Goodies

Many of you have probably picked up on the fact that I’m currently a “gluten-free” eater. I don’t have Celiac disease but I am choosing a gluten-free lifestyle right now (after consultation with my doc) in an effort to alleviate some long term stomach issues. After a total of almost four months, I’m starting to get the hang of finding tasty things to eat that don’t have any wheat products on the ingredient list. One of my very favorite finds so far is this divine flourless chocolate torte that is sold at Whole Foods.

The woman at the bakery counter described it as an ultra-dense-extra-tasty-brownie. Si, por favor. It's especially good with some vanilla ice cream or gelato on the side, I'd recommend Talenti if you want to get real decadent. :)

Anyone else out there gluten-free that would like to share any great tips on shopping/eating/recipes for us? I'm just getting started so I'd love to hear.

ps. My favorite resource for gluten-free cooking is this fabulous blog. Enjoy!

The Truth About Calories?

So are you all cleansing and detoxing and dieting for the new year? I'm snacking on dark chocolate instead of milk chocolate and trying to cut back on my ice cream intake. The Wall Street Journal published this interesting article yesterday with results from a new study proving that weight gain and loss is not about what type of food you eat but simply how many calories you consume. What do you think -- true or false in your own experience?

PS. 15 foods that boost your metabolism and a Tumblr of recipes under 400 calories. 

Yummy Dark Chocolate Chuckar Cherries from the Pacific Northwest!