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    A Homemade Granola Recipe That Doesn’t Taste Like Cardboard

    Nothing beats a good homemade recipe that’s packed full of the good stuff – coconut, nuts, seeds, spices, ginger – and this one’s got ’em all! Best part (besides this granola being damn delicious)? These ingredients are great for your skin. Gingerol, the antioxidant in ginger, not only helps tone your skin, but also acts as an anti-inflammatory, which can help firm it up to look more youthful. It helps calm rashes and acne-prone skin, too!How To Make Your Own Granola At Home

    Homemade Breakfast Granola

    This recipe only takes 15 minutes to make, and is packed with all the good stuff – coconut, nuts, seeds, spices and ginger.

    Prep Time 5 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes mins

    Course Breakfast

    Servings 5 servingsCalories 699 kcal

    2 tbsp freshly grated ginger⅓ cup desiccated coconut⅔ cup coconut flakes1 cup macadamia nuts chopped⅓ cup almonds chopped⅓ cup pumpkin seeds10 medjool dates choppedPinch ground cinnamonPinch ground nutmeg½ cup coconut oil
    Preheat oven to 180°C.Mix all the ingredients together in a large bowl, making sure that the coconut oil coats evenly.Spread the mixture onto a parchment-paper-lined baking tray and bake for 15 minutes, or until golden brown. Cool, then pop this mixture into a large sealable container, or divide into five zip-lock bags. Breakfast sorted for the week? You glow girl!

    Keyword cereal

    SERVES 5. Per serving (114g): 2 926kJ, 60g fat (35g sat), 37g carbs, 10mg sodium, 8g fibre, 8g proteinTIP: Instead of eating your granola with milk, mash one banana, mix in one tablespoon of nut butter and heat for 30 seconds to “melt” slightly until it has a similar consistency to yoghurt. Mix in granola and munch down – yum!Shop The Ingredients For This Homemade Granola

    Faithful to Nature Raw South African Almonds

    Almonds are the ultimate “power snack”, with their rich nutritional benefits and low glycaemic index for lasting energy.

    Organic Odourless Coconut Oil 500 ml

    Coconut oil is still a saturated fat, but it has a lower smoke point, making it less ideal for recipes involving high heat. However, it’s perfect for baked goods and granola.

    Faithful to Nature Macadamia Nuts – Raw

    Macadamia nuts are top-level when it comes to nut rankings, the real crème de la crème — packing heaps of benefits into those little beige bods.

    Looking for more breakfast ideas? Make this healthy tropical coconut granola or these high-protein brekkies. Women’s Health participates in various affiliate marketing programmes, which means we may get commissions on editorially chosen products purchased through our links to retailer sites. More

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    How Veganuary Is Converting Meat Eaters For Life

    Does a month-long plant-based challenge really have the power to reshape our diets for good? That’s the question on our lips as Veganuary, a global campaign which encourages people to eat a plant-based diet for the month of January, kickstarts for 2025.While some people who try ditching meat for a month swiftly return to their normal eating habits, new research from the University of Exeter suggests that taking part in Veganuary leads to lasting changes – not just in our diets but in how we view meat, and ourselves, too.What is Veganuary?As a brief reminder, every January millions of people take part in Veganuary – a campaign that invites people to try veganism for a month. It was launched back in 2014 by Jane Land and Matthew Glover, and inspired by the success of Movember.Last year, a whopping 25 million people gave up animal products during January.Does Veganuary change long-term eating habits?A growing body of research suggests that trying Veganuary may leave a lasting impression on both people’s eating habits and attitudes toward meat.“Normally, the idea is to educate people first to change their attitudes, and hopefully, they end up changing their behaviour,” Natalia Lawrence, an associate professor of psychology at the University of Exeter told The Guardian. “But if you persuade people to change their behaviour for a month, it seems that these things follow.”The team at the University of Exeter have independently conducted a number of studies on people taking part in Veganuary. Their 2022 study, published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition, found that, on average, people report liking meat less (after taking part in Veganuary), with some even finding it ‘disgusting’.This aligns with their earlier research, which showed that 74% of vegetarians and 15% of flexitarians find meat disgusting. While another study (currently under peer review) delves deeper into this phenomenon of ‘meat disgust’ – suggesting that some individuals (primarily vegetarians) feel the same way about eating meat as meat-eaters feel toward the idea of eating faeces, or human or dog flesh.Adding to this, their survey of 46 Veganuary participants, published in the scientific journal Appetite last year, found they were less likely to say they identified as a ‘meat-eater’.“We know that identity strongly shapes food choices, so by encouraging participants to view themselves as individuals who reduce or avoid meat, Veganuary may pave the way for lasting, positive changes in dietary habits,” PhD researcher Sophie Hearn said.READ MORE: All The Vegan Kits, Meals And Guides To Help You Go VeganIs Veganuary the key to reducing meat consumption for good?By encouraging participants to try a plant-based diet, this research shows it fosters lasting changes in how people view themselves, their diets, and their relationship with meat.The University of Exeter also identified some of the difficulties that can hinder successful participation in Veganuary. Including; navigating food choices in social settings, a lack of plant-based options when eating out, missing non-vegan foods, and the perceived inconvenience of plant-based cooking.Toni Vernelli, Veganuary’s head of communications, said the organisation was pleased to see that Exeter’s research backed up its own participant surveys.“It’s gratifying to see Exeter’s research findings echo what we see every year in our participant surveys. At the end of their Veganuary pledge, more than 80% of participants tell us they plan to permanently reduce their meat and dairy consumption by at least 50%. This finding has been consistent for the past five years. Our participants report the same top challenges too – dealing with friends and family and eating out. We’re very excited to support Exeter University with new research investigating protocols for tackling these barriers.”The bottom lineWhile Veganuary is just a one-month challenge, it appears its impact on meat consumption can last much, much longer.By encouraging participants to try a plant-based diet, evidence suggests it has the potential to spark lasting changes in how people view meat, their diets and themselves – proving that small dietary changes really can lead to long-term changes, for both your health and the environment – one meal at a time.Try these vegan recipes:This article by Alice Barraclough was first published on Women’s Health UK. More

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    5 vegan spots in Dubai to begin the year on a healthy note

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    9 seconds ago

    If you’re looking to start the year with a plant-based diet, Dubai has a myriad of well-known vegan spots that are in line with a new year’s resolution for most of us.
    So as Veganuary commences in January, it’s the perfect occasion to start by trying out healthy spots in the city and to schedule a lunch or dinner with your friends.
    From a fancy gluten-free dining experience or a sweet treat that won’t make you feel guilty after indulging? then we’re here to help.
    Bounty Beets

    This low-key haven offers a wide range of delicious organic, gluten-free and vegan options to promote one’s overall well-being. The hero dish is the Beetroot Hummus, which is definitely a must-try. Located in Le Meridian Mina Seyahi, this hotspot is definitely one to try for a midweek refresh.
    For more information visit destinationminaseyahi.com
    Planet Terra

    For a complete vegan spot in Dubai, Planet Terra has opened its doors with a myriad of dishes to tantalise your taste buds. The restaurant was born out of a desire to create a space where diners can eat intentionally and nourish both their body and mind. With dishes such as Kimchi Pad Thai and organic coffee, guests are spoiled for choice. At the newly-opened family-run café, guests will discover an entirely vegan menu created with animal-free ingredients that are sourced fresh from ethical and sustainable suppliers, locally and internationally. Located within the residential community of Greens in Panorama Building and is open from 7:30am to 10:30pm.
    For more information visit planetterra.life
    SEVA Experience

    This creative destination was born with a mission to promote wellness and real food, all set in a garden that feels like a true escape. With an emphasis on organic living and seasonal ingredients, the dishes are designed to nourish form the inside out. The hero dish is Tropical Ceviche, as it’s made with careful attention to detail. It’s located on Jumeirah Beach Road and is open daily from 10am to 8pm.
    For more information visit sevaexperience.com
    SoFree Organics

    This one-of-a-kind bakery based in Dubai serves desserts with 100 percent organic ingredients that are free from gluten, dairy, wheat, lactose, soy, yeast and refined sugar. From guilt-free chocolate cakes to red velvet delights, there are unending options to delight in for any special occasion. All orders can be place via the page’s Instagram.
    Soul Santé Cafe

    This one-of-a-kind bakery based in Dubai serves desserts with 100 percent organic ingredients that are free from gluten, dairy, wheat, lactose, soy, yeast and refined sugar. From guilt-free chocolate cakes to red velvet delights, there are unending options to delight in for any special occasion. All orders can be place via the page’s Instagram.
    For more information visit soulsantecafe.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @samiclarke More

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    5 vegan spots in Dubai to end the year on a healthy note

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    30 mins ago

    If you’re looking to start the year with a plant-based diet, Dubai has a myriad of well-known vegan spots that are in line with a new year’s resolution for most of us.
    So as Veganuary commences in January, it’s the perfect occasion to start by trying out healthy spots in the city and to schedule a lunch or dinner with your friends.
    From a fancy gluten-free dining experience or a sweet treat that won’t make you feel guilty after indulging? then we’re here to help.
    Bounty Beets

    This low-key haven offers a wide range of delicious organic, gluten-free and vegan options to promote one’s overall well-being. The hero dish is the Beetroot Hummus, which is definitely a must-try. Located in Le Meridian Mina Seyahi, this hotspot is definitely one to try for a midweek refresh.
    For more information visit destinationminaseyahi.com
    Planet Terra

    For a complete vegan spot in Dubai, Planet Terra has opened its doors with a myriad of dishes to tantalise your taste buds. The restaurant was born out of a desire to create a space where diners can eat intentionally and nourish both their body and mind. With dishes such as Kimchi Pad Thai and organic coffee, guests are spoiled for choice. At the newly-opened family-run café, guests will discover an entirely vegan menu created with animal-free ingredients that are sourced fresh from ethical and sustainable suppliers, locally and internationally. Located within the residential community of Greens in Panorama Building and is open from 7:30am to 10:30pm.
    For more information visit planetterra.life
    SEVA Experience

    This creative destination was born with a mission to promote wellness and real food, all set in a garden that feels like a true escape. With an emphasis on organic living and seasonal ingredients, the dishes are designed to nourish form the inside out. The hero dish is Tropical Ceviche, as it’s made with careful attention to detail. It’s located on Jumeirah Beach Road and is open daily from 10am to 8pm.
    For more information visit sevaexperience.com
    SoFree Organics

    This one-of-a-kind bakery based in Dubai serves desserts with 100 percent organic ingredients that are free from gluten, dairy, wheat, lactose, soy, yeast and refined sugar. From guilt-free chocolate cakes to red velvet delights, there are unending options to delight in for any special occasion. All orders can be place via the page’s Instagram.
    Soul Santé Cafe

    This one-of-a-kind bakery based in Dubai serves desserts with 100 percent organic ingredients that are free from gluten, dairy, wheat, lactose, soy, yeast and refined sugar. From guilt-free chocolate cakes to red velvet delights, there are unending options to delight in for any special occasion. All orders can be place via the page’s Instagram.
    For more information visit soulsantecafe.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @samiclarke More

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    Prep This Smokey Sweet Potato Side For Easy Weeknight Wins

    Think smokey, sweet and vegan, all dressed up with a swirl of B-well mayo. Whether you’re serving it up as a braai side, pairing it with a chicken breast and salad for lunch, or alongside a grilled steak for dinner, it’s the perfect fit. The best part? It’s super easy to make and takes just 15 minutes to prep!What we love about B-well Mayo? It’s completely free from eggs, dairy and gluten, making it a dream for anyone with dietary restrictions. As a 100% vegan option, it’s perfect for those embracing a plant-based lifestyle or anyone after a healthier, delicious mayo that ticks all the boxes!“We believe everyone should enjoy the simple pleasures of mayo without worry. As a mom, I often have to cater to my own family and my children’s friends, some of whom suffer from allergies. I can honestly say that, despite being egg- and dairy-free, B-well Mayo delivers on taste.”

    Lunique, Spokesperson for B-wellVersatility is one of B-well Mayo’s greatest strengths. Whether you’re spreading it on sandwiches, mixing it into a salad dressing, or using it as a dip, B-well Mayo adds the delicious flavour you’re searching for, especially in a diet restricted by allergies or lifestyle choices. From vegan potato salads to burger toppings, or even as a base for your favourite sauces, B-well Mayo brings a rich, creamy taste that everyone can enjoy. Because, after all, everyone deserves some yum!Let’s Make This Delish Sweet Potato Salad

    Smokey Sweet Potato Salad

    A quick and easy side dish to accompany your weeknight steak.

    Prep Time 5 minutes minsCook Time 10 minutes mins

    Course Salad, Side DishCuisine South African

    Servings 2 servings

    1 cup B-well Reduced Oil MayonnaiseJuice of half a lemon½ tsp cayenne pepper½ tsp smoked paprikaSalt and pepper, to taste3 large sweet potatoes peeled and cut into cubes½ red onion finely choppedHandful of fresh coriander, chopped
    Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add the sweet potato cubes and cook until soft to the touch. Set aside to cool.To make the dressing, combine the mayonnaise, lemon juice, cayenne pepper and paprika in a large bowl, mixing well. Add salt and pepper to taste.Add the sweet potato to the bowl and mix together.Add the red onion and coriander and gently mix until combined.Serve chilled.

    Keyword Vegan

    More Side Dish Recipes: More

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    20 of the most aesthetic restaurants to visit in Dubai

    Life

    by Sarah Joseph
    50 mins ago

    VIEW GALLERY/ 20 IMAGES
    With unique offerings and an endless array of food and beverage options, these aesthetic cafés offer a space for like-minded individuals to connect or enjoy some alone time with a book.
    Dubai’s burgeoning food scene is growing by the day. Known for its aesthetic interiors and artisanal coffee culture, each creative space allows a quick escape from any mundane routine.
    From Scandinavian-inspired coffee shops to nature-fuelled cafés, these spots not only offer delicious food but also provide a visually appealing atmosphere perfect for capturing stunning photos.
    If you’re looking for a midweek refresh or a co-working environment to inspire you, we’ve compiled some of the most inspiring and Instagrammable spaces for your next visit.
    For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @portrayingmystyle_ More

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    Delicious Grilled Whole Aubergines Recipe With Bruschetta

    Let’s face it: every time you buy an aubergine, you already know you need it for some recipe, right? It’s not exactly a staple like tomatoes or potatoes. But we’re here to open your world: this grilled whole aubergine recipe is going to blow. your. mind. And, it’ll probably become a new staple, since so damn delicious.

    Might we add that it happens to be vegan and goes perfectly on the braai menu? Vegetarians and braais typically don’t go well together, but your picky vegan mates will love you for this tasty alternative to the giant mushroom. Lose the bruschetta and this grilled whole aubergine becomes a healthy side attraction to a meaty main. Or, just make it all winter long. No judgement.

    READ MORE: What Is The 30 Plants Per Week Challenge?

    Benefits of Aubergine

    First off, get ready to have your world rocked: aubergine, by biological definition, is not a vegetable at all, but a berry.

    Now that we’ve sufficiently shifted your reality, let’s look at how good this plant can be for your bod. It’s high in fibre and low in calories, making it a great addition to salads, stews and basically anything else you can chuck into a pot. They’re also high in antioxidants which fight off free radicals in the body – the stuff causing things like ageing and other nasties. Also, the fibre, potassium, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and antioxidants in eggplants all support heart health. And when it comes to the skin, leave it on and eat it: nasunin, an anthocyanin in eggplant skin, is great for brain health.

    READ MORE: 5 High-Carb Fruits—And How Adding Protein Or Fat Helps Blood Sugar

    Delicious Grilled Whole Aubergines With Bruschetta

    This anytime recipe is not only a great addition to your five-a-day, but it feels like comfort food, too.

    Cook Time 20 minutes mins

    Course Appetizer, Lunch, Side Dish, Snack, StarterCuisine Healthy, Vegan, Vegetarian

    Servings 6Calories 339 kcal

    6 Medium aubergines (or one per person)Olive oil Fresh lemon juiceSea salt Milled black pepper For the bruschetta1 loaf Ciabatta, slicedOlive oil1 head Garlic, halved
    Prick the aubergines and grill on the braai (or wherever) until charred outside and meltingly soft inside.To make the bruschetta, brush the sliced bread with olive oil, then toast over the coals. Remove and smear with the halved head of garlic.To serve, slash a cross on top of each aubergine, squash the sides to open and flavour with olive oil, lemon juice and seasoning of choice.

    This recipe calls for large amounts of olive oil, which ups your total fat content, although saturated fat remains low. To reduce total fat, simply use less oil.

    Keyword air fryer, braai, comfort food, Easy Meals, Healthy Recipes, Loadshedding-Friendly, No-Cook Recipes, Vegan

    Try something new! More

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    Give Your Salad A Winter Makeover With This Butternut And Beetroot Recipe

    Who says salads are only for summer? Loaded with roasted butternut and beetroot, toasted almonds, basil and a sprinkling of feta (optional), this salad will keep you happy and warm throughout the chilly months — and when summer swings around again, you can simply let the roasted veggies and nuts cool down before serving the salad.

    Serve the salad as a main or as a side depending on your mood — it’s the perfect salad for a braai or Sunday roast, but you can just as easily serve it as a main meal.

    Health Benefits:

    Immune Support: The vitamins and antioxidants in butternut squash and beetroot help support a healthy immune system, especially during the winter months when colds and flu are more common.

    Heart Health: The fibre, healthy fats and antioxidants in almonds, beetroot and olive oil contribute to heart health by reducing cholesterol levels and inflammation and improving blood vessel function.

    Let’s make this warm hearty winter salad:

    Warm Winter Salad

    Loaded with roasted butternut and beetroot, toasted almonds and a sprinkling of feta, this salad will keep you happy and warm throughout the chilly months.

    Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 45 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr

    Course Salad, Side DishCuisine Vegetarian

    Servings 4 servingsCalories 342 kcal

    500g butternut, chopped400g beetroot, choppedGood-quality olive oilSalt and freshly ground black pepper100g almonds, choppedLettuce, roughly tornBalsamic vinegar1 wheel feta optionalA few basil leaves, roughly chopped
    Preheat the oven to 200˚C. Place the butternut and beetroot on an oven tray, drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Place in the oven and roast until tender and very slightly charred on the edges.While the veggies are roasting, add the chopped almonds to a dry pan on a medium-high heat and toast until warmed through and browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.Arrange the lettuce leaves on a serving platter. Remove the veggies from the oven and scatter them over the lettuce leaves. Sprinkle over the toasted almonds and dress with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper, to taste. If you are using feta, crumble it over the salad. To finish, sprinkle over the chopped basil leaves.

    Keyword salad

    Looking for more easy winter meals? Try this One-Pan Chicken With Green Beans In Tomato Sauce recipe, this Lettuce, Fennel & Pea Soup recipe or these Quick Air Fryer Delights. More