So, I decided to try my first real raw recipe (other than almond milk) today. Ummm, it did NOT go well, not at all. I was trying to make Ani Phyo's cacao pudding recipe. The problem is that it calls for 2 cups of almonds and 1 cup of water (among other ingredients, obviously). I know what you're thinking: "what is the problem?" Well, I don't have a vitamix (or other high-powered blender on steroids). I've just been using my magic bullet, which is fine for almond milk and smoothies - but not for anything more complex, especially not for thick puddings.
So basically, I tried blending the nuts with the water, and the blender freaked out. It got jammed and just stopped altogether. So I had to add more water, and more water, etc - so now it is not even close to pudding, it is more like milk. Then I added the cacao and dates, which didn't even blend - they just stuck to the bottom of the blender. Mmmm, yummy. Then I decided that although the pudding was a complete disaster, I was NOT going to waste 2 cups of almonds (really raw, from Spain - not cheap). So I made almond milk instead (with the slightest taste of chocolately sweetness). And even though I now have nut milk bags, I still managed to spill milk and pulp all over the kitchen.
Now, the story isn't over yet (sorry). I wanted to use up some of the milk b/c I had so much, so I decided to make some raw ice cream on the fly (my first mistake). I blended about one cup of the milk with 2 TB of cacao and several strawberries. Then I stuck it in the freezer (nope, no ice cream maker). I just tried some. Also a failure. Uggghhhhhhh. I mean, it's not completely inedible, but I certainly wouldn't serve it to anyone.
It's depressing b/c I realized even more I REALLY need and want a vitamix. I also need a food processor, a dehydrator, a juicer, and an ice cream maker. And all of this is hard to buy when you're in between jobs. (Waaaaaaaah). I really want to try nut cheeses, but there is no way my poor little blender can take it.
I know what I'm doing with my first paycheck (mortgage or raw food appliances - a girl has to have her priorities straight). ;)
2 comments:
I make do with a GE food processor from the 70s, a Cuisinart blender, and a citrus juicer. The only other thing I need are good knives and a cutting board.
I use the blender for smoothies only. I make raw soups, slaws, puddings, and ice cream in my food processor. I juice oranges with my juicer. It works for me and I didn't spend a lot to make a gourmet raw kitchen. I prefer things to be simple anyway.
That's such a sad (but ok, it made me smile really big too) story. You're so funny...
I hope you can afford a Vita-Mix soon...I use it for EVERYTHING! If you have that you don't need much else.
Post a Comment