Conscious Foodie: Pantry Must Haves

NUTRITIONAL YEAST This yeast is grown specifically to be used as a food product and is used in cooking and has a cheesy, nutty or savoury flavour. It is naturally low in sodium and calories, as well as fat-free, sugar-free, gluten-free and vegan. Nutritional yeast is a great source of protein, B vitamins and trace minerals. Nutritional yeast can be used by sprinkling it over popcorn or pasta, or even as a “cheese” flavouring in vegan sauces or as a thickener for soups and sauces.

Must-haves YOUR VEGAN & VEGETARIAN

Here’s a little guide for those of you who might need help on how to begin your vegan or vegetarian journey.

TOFU Tofu is a food made of condensed soy milk that is pressed into solid white blocks in a process quite similar to cheesemaking. It acts a replacement to a lot of cheese led meals that you might be used to and can be cooked in multiple ways that will help keep things interesting. Tofu is high in protein and contains all of the essential amino acids your body needs. It also provides fats, carbs, and a wide variety of vitamins and minerals.

VEGETABLE STOCK Vegetable stock can be your saving grace, especially when frozen and ready for use whenever you need it. All you need to do is chop up some vegetables, cover with water, let simmer and you’re done! Stock comes in handy when making soups, casseroles and more. Recommended vegetables to use for stock are: Carrots, a little garlic, onions, leeks, celery and mushrooms. The vegetables we suggest avoiding are potatoes, zucchinis, beetroots and green beans.

LEGUMES Legumes are edible seeds that contain any nutrients and are now being used as a popular red meat substitution. Legumes are a good source of protein and contain lots of fibre too. With options like chickpeas, lentils, peas and edamame, there’s so much you can do in the kitchen to keep your meals exciting.

TAHINI Tahini is a condiment made from ground sesame seeds, It’s nutty and creamy with a rich taste, commonly used in Hummus. It can be used the way people use peanut butter, like in cakes, cookies, brownies, dressings, dips and more. Tahini is healthy to eat and can be store-bought or you can make your own at home.

GRAINS The most popular grains for vegans and vegetarians are currently oats, quinoa and brown rice. Of course, there are more but these are more easily available in Kenya and easy to cook with too. Brown rice is your white rice alternative, healthier with more Vitamin E. Oats are the perfect fit for your morning routines to keep you full and healthy, and now there are a ton of ways to bake with them too. Quinoa is a complete protein and is also high in potassium, use it in your risottos, salad and more.

Find these products at stores near you like Carrefour, Shoprite and HealthyU

GET TO KNOW FOODIE SPOTS JayTakeAPic’s

This month, we talk foodie spots, business and blogging with the multifaceted JayTakeAPic. Interview

Jayson Wamae, also known as JayTakeAPic on social media, is a veteran in these influencer streets. Beyond what you see on his envyinducing page, Jay has managed to build a brand that encompasses entertainment, food, fashion, travel and all things Posh. He found some time out of his busy schedule to tell us more about his favourite food spots and blogging.

We know that you’re a lifestyle blogger but tell us a little bit more about yourself. I’m a food and lifestyle blogger born and bred in Nairobi, I’ve had the privilege of eating in many countries around the world but the ever-evolving food scene in Nairobi remains one of my favourite things to watch and I enjoy being part of its growth.

If you were to go restaurant hopping with friends, which 5 places would you pick? I would start with Artcaffe for my fave eggs benedict, then head on over to Alexandre for a sandwich, I’m always spoilt for choice when I’m there. Then I would head on over to Graze for a tuna steak because seafood is life! Then from there, I would head over to Picazzo for an afternoon sangria. Then the final restaurant for dinner would be La Sulemaria for some pasta.

How would you say your brand has grown since you first started blogging? I started off cooking from the comfort of my mother’s kitchen and found myself getting invited to restaurants to sample food. This taught me a lot about different cuisines and ultimately got me into the lifestyle blogging space because I wanted to understand more about where the Nairobi culture was going. These experiences ultimately led me into owning my own clothing brand which is Posh by Jay and just last year got me opportunities to host my own Posh experience events.

On a typical day, out of the office, which restaurant would be grabbing a snack at or enjoying a drink at? I am constantly working so for me there is really no time I am out of office. If I’m not working, I’m editing my vlog or taking in orders for my clothing line. I love spaces that allow me to work efficiently. Which means that it should have some space, a relatively great internet connection would always be a plus. A top pick for me would be somewhere like Nyama Mama. It’s an extremely inspiring space.

Of all the countries you have travelled to, which country’s cuisine have you enjoyed the most? It would have to be France. I love everything about their dishes. Escargot being the one things I had always wanted to try out. I am very adventurous when it comes to trying out new things. I was in Paris, at a restaurant facing Notre Dame and when the menu came, the waitress in this restaurant told me there was no better time than now. Another thing is Foie gras. I know there is a worldwide debate if this is something that we should be eating considering how it is made but that being said it was delicious.

Now that we’re indoors for a while, are there any restaurants you love ordering from? I’m a big fan of Asian cuisine, so the number one place that will be taking a lot of my money will definitely be the Arbor. If you have had their pho you know that it’s basically a hug in a bowl and in this time of social distancing I now we definitely all need a hug.

What do you enjoy the most about what you do? The fact that at no point will any experience be the same. I love the fact that the food and entertainment industry is ever-evolving and that I get a front seat to watch it.

What has been your biggest highlight since you started? Definitely the first-ever White Cap brunch, being flown right over the peak of Mount Kenya was such an experience. A huge shout out to the team because that was such a beautiful day. I did a vlog on it so if anyone would like to check that out they should head on over to my YouTube channel #ShamlessPlug

3 WAYS TO EAT A Croissant

Croissants are one of those pastries that are hard to resist. You’ve probably had your fair share of them covered in jams, chocolate spreads and nut butters. However, nothing compares to the sweet and savoury combination of sandwich fillings and flaky buttery layers of a freshly baked croissant. Here are 3 ways you can enjoy this irresistible combination at Tiramisu Bakery.

@tiramisubakery_ke

HAM & CHEESE CROISSANT The most versatile of the 3, the ham & cheese croissant will get you through even the earliest of mornings or the busiest days. Can’t find time to sit down for a long lunch? Grab one of these and you’ll be good to go. BREAKFAST CROISSANT You’ll need to sit down for this one because this croissant is stuffed with all the best parts of breakfast. Crunchy bacon, a well-cooked egg, lettuce and tomatoes will come together in your mouth and leave you dancing happily in your seat.

TURKEY & CHEESE CROISSANT Just because you don’t eat pork doesn’t mean you need to be left out. Tiramisu offers a turkey and cheese croissant that will take your taste buds on a ride. We suggest doubling up on the cheese or ask for another layer of turkey slices to amp up the flavour and get your gains.

Dessert Board at Tiramisu Bakery