They say when you give up dairy, or when you go entirely plant-based, cheese is often the most difficult and the last to go. This might be because cheese is a concentrated source of dairy and contains high levels of opiates. Like some drugs, it stimulates the reward system in the brain – a feeling we as humans constantly seek out. Well, I can tell you, my addiction to cheese was real! I was brought up on the stuff! Having been a child-vegetarian for so long, dairy was my (misinformed) “best” source of protein and so I would go to town on it. Any way, I could go on and on about the downfalls of dairy, however, this is not the time. What I do want to introduce you too is this delectable dish that incorporates one of my favourite nutrition staples – nutritional yeast. Rich in vitamins and minerals, these little flakes also offer a delightful cheesy taste that will help ease those cheese cravings whilst boosting your overall wellbeing! Give it a go!
Ingredients
- 2 cups brussels sprouts
- 2 long shallots
- 1/2 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1.5 tbsp nutritional yeast
- 1-2 clove garlic
- 1-2 tsp herbamare
- 1 tsp tamari
- 1/2 tsp extra virgin coconut oil
- Preparation:
- 10 min
- Cooking:
- 10 min
- Ready in:
- 20 min
Instructions
- Allow your garlic to sit minced in an unheated pan for 10 minutes whilst you prepare your vegetables.
- Trim the stems of your brussels sprouts, and begin to finely slice each sprout horizontally using a a very sharp knife. Alternatively, you can slice with a mandolin or food processor.
- Next, slice the shallots.
- Begin to heat the garlic in the pan with your coconut oil or even a splash of water. Cook for 3-5 minutes before adding in the shallots.
- Cook shallots for a further 3 minutes.
- Throw in the shaved brussels sprouts and sprinkle with herbamare, a pinch of salt and as much cracked black pepper as desired.
- Pan-fry for 7 minutes, using a spatula to toss occasionally.
- Heat up a separate small pan, ensuring it is very hot before throwing your pumpkin seeds in. Lower the heat, cover with the tamari and stir for 4 minutes, until lightly toasted. Set aside.
- When the brussels have cooked for about 7 minutes, throw in the nutritional yeast, again, stirring well to fully coat. Allow to warm for a further 2 or so minutes.
- Plate the brussels and top with the toasted pumpkin seeds. Enjoy warm or cool.