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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

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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

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    10 vegan spots in Dubai if you’re looking to eat healthy

    Lifeby Sarah Joseph2 hours ago VIEW GALLERY/ 10 IMAGESIf you’re looking to start the year with a plant-based diet, Dubai has a myriad of well-known 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 try 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.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @wildandthemoon More

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    How I got my job as… Co-founder of this heavenly GCC-based organic bakery

    Lifeby Camille Macawili11 mins ago Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and businesswomen both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.This week, we’re giving the spotlight to Alina Tutkova, Co-founder of Angel Cakes – a chain of organic cafe backed by renowned supermodel, philanthropist and impact investor Natalia Vodianova, dedicated to serving gluten-free and refined sugar-free desserts and breakfast. Established in 2022, Angel Cakes continues its rapid expansion journey as it continues to add locations in the pipeline including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait in 2024.Here, we speak to Alina on how she pivoted her passion for food photography and having a sweet tooth to launching Angel Cakes along with Dima Tutkov, a Grammy-nominated producer, and how she’s working towards her goal of promoting mindful eating within the culinary landscape.Scroll through to read the interview below.Angel Cakes investor Natalia Vodianova and co-founders Alina Tutkova and Dima TutkovWhat was your favourite subject at school?Contrary to what you might expect from someone with a creative flair, my favorite subjects were physics, geometry, and math. I was so passionate about them that I participated in academic competitions, even winning several prizes.What was your first job?My first job was at a modeling agency where I taught acting, fashion history and stage movement.What eventually brought you to Dubai?My journey to Dubai was driven by a desire to grow my business in this vibrant, sun-kissed city. I saw an opportunity to introduce my concept of delicious yet health-friendly desserts in a place known for its love of sweets.What inspired you to enter the F&B space?My foray into the F&B space was fueled by my love for cooking and innovating new recipes. I wanted to build a community where health-conscious people could connect.Talk us through the concept of Angel Cakes.Founded in 2022 by myself and my husband, Dima Tutkov, Angel Cakes is a chain of cafés committed to offering gluten-free and refined sugar-free desserts and breakfasts. Our mission is to provide wholesome, health-conscious options, so we focus on creating an experience where every sweet moment is also a healthy one.Promoting healthy eating and wellness is not just a business mission but a societal responsibility. Our choices influence not only individual well-being but also contribute to building a healthier community. We believe that with strength and a healthy attitude, you can make this world a better place!What are the key elements of your role?I believe that my main job is to be a role model and an advocate for natural, wholesome foods. I am also a brand chef, and I’m deeply involved in product creation, from recipe development to the aesthetic presentation.Talk us through your daily routine.My day begins with a refreshing celery juice or a smoothie, followed by a protein-rich breakfast. After dropping my kids at school, I practice yoga to energize myself for the day. I then spend time at our cafes, collaborating with my team, attending meetings, and creating recipe videos. I pursue my personal interests like singing and improving my English whenever I get the chance. Evenings are dedicated to family time: my three children and lovely husband.What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?Consistency is key in any venture, whether it’s business or adopting healthier eating habits. It’s equally crucial to stay true to your principles and aspirations, ignoring any stereotypes or distractions that might divert you from your goals.What is the best piece of advice you ever received?The best advice I’ve received is the importance of trusting, respecting, and believing in the people you work with.And what is the worst?I was once told that entrepreneurs should ignore client feedback, especially during growth phases. I strongly disagree with this. In today’s era of social media, carefully considering customer feedback is crucial for understanding and addressing their needs.What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?Expanding into new markets has undoubtedly been my biggest challenge, and the UAE was no exception. The complexity lies not only in adapting to a new business environment but also in understanding and respecting the unique culture and consumer preferences. There’s a delicate balance between maintaining your brand identity and tailoring it to fit the local context. Our journey to establish a foothold in the UAE was filled with learning and adaptation. However, our team’s resilience and dedication turned this challenge into a proud achievement.What are your future goals and plans for your career?My future goal as an entrepreneur is to extend Angel Cakes to more regions, spreading our mission and values. We’ve grown so much since we opened in the UAE — currently, we have four branches across the country including Dubai Mall, Bluewaters, Yas Mall and Dubai Hills Park. We also have plans for expansion into other Middle Eastern countries this year such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Kuwait.As a holistic chef, I aim to continue crafting unique, balanced products that perfectly blend taste, nutrition, and aesthetics.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

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    10 vegan spots in Dubai to kick in Veganuary

    Lifeby Sarah Joseph2 hours ago VIEW GALLERY/ 10 IMAGESIf you’re looking to start the year with a plant-based diet, Dubai has a myriad of well-known 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 try 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.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @wildandthemoon More

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    6 of the best vegan desserts to savour in Dubai

    Lifeby Sarah Joseph2 hours ago As we kick into the new year on a healthy note, finding the right vegan desserts made with natural ingredients can go a long way throughout the day without a dip in energy levels.If you’re on the lookout for healthy alternatives in Dubai, we’re here to help with our selection of tried-and-tested desserts that ensure they don’t compromise on flavour.So, swipe through our Emirates Woman guide to satisfy your sweet tooth cravings without any guilt.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied & Feature Image: Unsplash @askar-abayev More

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    8 of the best venues to relish a healthy açai bowl in Dubai

    Lifeby Sarah Joseph2 hours ago There’s no denying that açai bowls are here to stay.This nutritious bowl gets its purple colour from the acai palm and is superfruit that isn’t easy to find, hence becoming a popular indulgence in almost every part of the world. As a staple in the health-conscious world, these bowls make the perfect breakfast, post-workout treat, or afternoon pick-me-up snack.First introduced in the USA in the ‘90s, the açai craze eventually gained momentum in the early ‘00s when posting on social media became more rampant. With Instagram content creators and travellers, adding its popularity, this healthy treat is here to stay.Besides its aesthetic qualities, this bowl is full of antioxidants including omega 3’s fiber and healthy fats, making it an easy incorporation into any healthy diet. With the toppings varying from almonds to homemade granola, you can create a bespoke bowl as per your preference.So, if you’re on the lookout for a healthy treat, Emirates Woman has curated an exclusive guide of all the tried-and-tested açai spots in Dubai.Projeto AçaiWhether you’re a fan of fresh berries or homemade peanut butter there’s and option for everyone. These fresh bowls come with a delicious assortment of fresh delights in the signature bowls which include brownie amor bowl with vegan brownie chunks, berry bowl and brownie fiesta. Customers can create their own acai bowl with any two toppings at Dhs32. With three locations across Dubai Marina, Sheikh Zayed Road and Motor City, guests can also place orders via Careem, Talabat and Deliveroo.For more information visit projectoacai.comJoe & The JuiceFor a new take on açai bowls, the spirulina bowl is a healthy addition to any breakfast. Packed with delectable nutrients, it includes coconut, chia seeds, cacao nibs, granola, goji berry, avocado, dates and of course green spirulina priced at Dhs43. Known for their fresh juices, healthy shakes and delicious sandwiches, Joe & The Juice has quickly established itself in Dubai after opening multiple stores in the city including Dubai Festival City, Dubai Design District, Nakheel Mall, Mall of the Emirates & Galleria Mall. Orders can also be placed via Deliveroo, to enjoy within the comfort of your home.For more information visit joejuice.comLeen’sThis homegrown concept aims to highlight the star elements of international cuisines by bringing forth a winning fusion of freshly hand-picked ingredients from around the world. From Fresh açai bowls starting at Dhs38, guests can also build their own bowl with three regular toppings. Located at Bluewaters and Emirates Towers.For more information visit leens.comBounty BeetsThis dainty haven offers a wide range of delicious organic, gluten-free and vegan options to promote one’s overall well-being. With both delicious and Instagrammable dishes, guests are sure to enjoy this exclusive menu that was born to inspire a positive community overall. This quaint haven is open to host people all day from sunrise to sunset.For more information visit bountybeets.comCove BeachDubai’s iconic beach club located on Bluewaters Island, has introduced a new breakfast and sunbed experience, available on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays. Guests can experience the venue at Dhs100, fully redeemable on all items from the breakfast menu including fresh açai bowls and other must-try juices to complement the meal. Located at Caesars Palace, this luxe beach spot is worth a visit for a midweek break or a weekend escape.For more information visit covebeach.comWild & the MoonThis vegan café offers a whole menu that is not just plant-based but with all homemade organic food options/ Priced at Dhs48, customers can opt for the delicious açai bowl that comes with Açai, Banana, maple and toppings. From cold-pressed juices to dishes prepped with the best superfoods, each ingredient is ethically sourced. Located in Alserkal Avenue and DIFC and downtown.For more information visit wildandthemoon.aeComptoir 102This award-winning ethical concept is tucked away on Jumeirah road offering conscious choices with ingredients sourced from local organic farms, serving delicious food while promoting sustainability. From home-made nut milks to its famous smoothies, there’s enough and more for everyone who visits. The açai bowl is priced at Dhs48 and comes straight from Amazonia with a blend of coconut water and banana and topped with fresh berries, banana and chia seeds.For more information visit comptoir102.comAcaifulThis superfood bar brings delicious organic Acai that are 100 percent fruit, ZERO refined sugar, dairy, gluten or juice. The nut butters, jam and granola are all made in-house for utmost freshness. The price starts from Dhs44 and is available to order from Deliveroo.For more information visit here. – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied & Feature Image: Pexels @taryn-elliott More

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    12 Of The Best Vegan Protein Powders You Can Buy Right Now

    Raise your hand if you’re a vegan who’s sick of people asking you how you get enough protein. Same.

    Even though there are *plenty* of ways to get protein on a plant-based diet, vegan protein powder can help you meet your needs in a pinch.

    And, yes, dieticians say they’re legit. “Some misconceptions about vegan protein powders are that they don’t provide enough protein and that they won’t keep you full,” says Carolyn Brown, a dietitian.

    What’s in vegan protein powders?

    However, today’s vegan protein powders do both. First of all, many vegan powders contain 20 to 30 grams of protein per serving, which is totally on par with most popular whey protein powders, according to Brown. (Btw: If you’re wondering whether whey protein is vegan, the answer is a huge no. “Whey protein is one of the primary proteins found in dairy products,” says nutritionist Charlotte Martin.)

    Many plant-based powders also provide some fibre, which helps them keep you fuller, longer — and boosts their nutritional value, adds dietician Priya Khorana.

    Oh, and about that flavour issue. While vegan proteins long had a rep for tasting pretty revolting, times have changed. “Many newer proteins come in flavours like salted caramel, coconut, or even chai,” says dietician Andy Bellatti. These days, popular powders are made from hemp, brown rice, or pea protein. Not just soy.

    When hunting for vegan protein powder, consider these three major factors: protein content, types of proteins used and sweeteners. First, Martin recommends looking for a powder that contains at least 15 to 20 grams of protein per serving.

    READ MORE: Here’s Another Reason You Should Probably Stick To Your Plant-Based Diet

    Getting the most from your vegan protein powders

    Then, since most plant-based protein sources are “incomplete” (meaning they don’t contain all of — or enough of — all nine essential amino acids) on their own, opt for a protein powder made out of multiple sources, Martin says. Combining different proteins ensures your powder provides all of the aminos your body needs.

    Finally, limit any added sugar to five grams per serving, max. “I steer clear of artificial sweeteners since some research suggests they may have negative effects on metabolism, gut bacteria and appetite,” says Martin. Instead, opt for natural, zero-calorie sweeteners (like stevia).

    Whether you’re spiking your smoothies, iced coffee, or pancake mix, today’s vegan protein powders are better than ever — and totally worth your while, whether you’re a carnivore or not.

    The Top Vegan Protein Powders

    My Wellness Super Vegan Protein

    This protein combines hemp and pea protein for a rich source of essential and non-essential amino acids. They’re also bioavailable and easily digestible, a big win. It also has high levels of L-isoleucine, L-valine, L-arginine and L-Leucine, which are beneficial after a strenuous workout.

    Go Good Plant Protein Isolate

    Here, you’ll find no allergens like soya or dairy. Just the good stuff. Based on peas blended with organic vanilla beans for flavour, you’ll find this nutrient-packed vegan protein powder works wonders. Protein also boosts your immunity, FYI. A winner.

    Nutritech Vegan Pea Protein Isolate

    Nutritech Vegan Pea Protein Isolate contains 25g of naturally sourced protein per serving to increase your protein intake and further enhance your diet and lifestyle. Not only is pea protein isolate gluten, dairy and lactose-free, but it also has excellent bioavailability properties.

    READ MORE: How To Add More Vegetables To Your Diet, Even If You’re Busy

    Wazoogles Protein Blend

    This protein powder is delicious and stands up with its additions of essential vitamins and minerals. Loaded with the purest, most ethically sourced, nutrient-dense superfoods around, rich in plant-based protein, nutrients, living enzymes, vitamins and vital nutrients, without any fillers, artificial colours or flavourants to spoil it.

    Soaring Free Superfoods Protein Superfood Mix

    This vegan protein powder blend, with its short ingredient list, takes out fillers and additives, leaving you with the essential stuff. The entirely organic plant-sourced protein mix that contains natural sources of protein, antioxidants, fibre & omega 3. You can expect a chocolatey flavour from raw African Cacao powder.

    NPL Go Green Vegan Protein

    Get a full profile of amino acids and proteins from this blend. It tastes good, mixes easily and helps you hit those protein goals in one easy sip.

    READ MORE: Magnesium Is Brilliant For Sleep And Cramps – Here’s How To Get Enough Of It

    Biogen Plant-Based Protein

    Rice and pea protein is free from gluten, dairy, and lactose making it easily digestible, especially with the added bamboo fibre, an excellent ingredient for fibre enrichment. Try it in smoothies, making vegan, gluten-free treats like protein date balls and more.

    Phyto Pro Thrive Protein Shake

    Great taste? Check. Easy to digest? Check! Clean protein? Check! This concentrated pea protein isolate is a 100% plant-based protein powder with the addition of raw vanilla bean powder and sweetened with xylitol and stevia for a protein shake so tasty it doesn’t need anything else.

    Harvest Table Vegan Protein Powder

    Made from a blend of organic pea and brown rice proteins, this blend includes a proprietary blend from Harvest Table of CollaV, a natural, plant-based mix. CollaV is also a source of bamboo silica, which helps your bod make collagen. And, the Harvest Table’s vegan protein blend is 81% protein and every serving contains the same quantity of glycine and proline (the amino acids that make collagen so powerful) as an animal-based collagen.

    READ MORE: What To Eat Before A Morning Workout, According To Nutritionists

    Noa & Co Replenishing Protein Powder

    This is a plant-based supplement that contains a potent probiotic along with other extras. It is carefully blended with brown rice, pea and hemp which are three plant superstars that contain more optimal amino acids.

    WILD Natural Beauty Vegan Protein

    Made with low heat to maximise the bioavailability of the pea protein, this mix is GMO-free, easy to digest and delicious, per devotees. Get 25g of protein per serving. It’s also supercharged with an exceptional amino acid profile of 4g IBCAAs per single serving.

    USN BlueLab 100% Plant Protein

    Get a high-protein formula that works with USN’s vegan protein powder. This formula is free from sugar, dairy, gluten, soy, and artificial flavourants and colourants.

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