Since I first began studying nutrition and wellness, I have been passionate about how we nourish our bodies.  Every time I return from a course or conference, whomever is at home when I get back, is subjected to a series of comments filled with huge excitement such as, “guess what breaking research on calcium metabolism I found out about?!?”. They give me the same look you have right now!!!

That passion has carried into the kitchen.  I love cooking. Well, most of the time!  I love the process of combining wholesome ingredients and knowing the product will be nourishing others.  I guess I feel like, in some way, I get to contribute to their wellness and wellbeing.  I cherish that opportunity.  It is really important that the food we consume provides true nourishment, not just the filling of a void.  To be worth the calories meals need to promote health and wellness, provide energy or prevent/treat illness…hopefully all three.  In addition to that, it must taste really good! No matter how much goodness it provides your body, the taste is what nourishes your soul...and there is huge value in that!

I tend to modify pretty much every recipe I come in contact with; looking for opportunity to preserve or improve the flavour while increasing the nutritional value.  Through the many trials and modifications, the results have been some flops, but many happy successes. My collection of recipes is growing, and I would like to share some of them with you through various entries here.

Today’s offering is a very speedy treat!  It is modified from a recipe e-mailed to me in the fall.  Enjoy!

Chocolate Cake in a Cup

In a large microwavable mug mix together:
* 4 tbsp spelt flour
* 2 ½ tbsp Sucanat
* 2 tbsp unsweetened baking cocoa

Add :
* 1 egg

Mix in thoroughly with a fork ensuring all dry ingredients are combined with egg. Pour in:
* 3 tbsp skim OR soy milk
* 1 ½ tbsp canola oil
* 1 ½ tbsp unsweetened applesauce
* ¼ tsp pure vanilla essence OR peppermint essence

Mix thouroughly and don't forget the bottom corners of the mug. Put mug in microwave on high for 2 minutes. Let cool for a couple minutes (if you can resist that long!) and tip out of mug onto plates. Makes 2 servings.

*Food Facts* Spelt contains more protein than wheat, and the protein in spelt is easier to digest.

• Recipe