One of the ways the brethren in Italy have been reaching out to their communities is through cooking classes. These classes have become known in the area and often attract several attendees. The last two cooking classes took place on March 13 and May 15 with lively participation and interest of all participants. The pictures and recipes below give a taste of the meetings.
Two of the featured recipes at the cooking class were for zucchini hamburgers and red lentil spread. These are listed below in case you too would like to try them! They are simple, easy to make, and yield delicious results.
Zucchini Hamburger
4 large zucchinis
1 teaspoon salt
1 tsp spices to taste (savory)
2 carrots
1 onion
1 garlic clove
2 tablespoons yeast flakes
2 tablespoons soy lecithin
400 grams bread crumbs
Directions:
1. Grate the zucchini and add the teaspoon of salt and leave it to rest for ten minutes.
2. Drain the excess water from the zucchini and pat dry.
3. Grate the carrots, onion, and garlic.
4. Add the yeast, lecithin, spices and breadcrumbs.
5. Mix everything until a smooth paste is formed.
6. Shape the patties and bake for 20 minutes at 200 degrees.
7. When finished baking, allow the patties to cool and then remove from the pan. Brush patties with olive oil for extra flavour.
Enjoy!
Red Lentil Spread
250 grams red lentils
1 onion sliced
4 tablespoons sunflower seed oil
2 bay leaves
Directions:
1. Cook the sliced onion with the lentils and bay leaves in 1 liter of water in a pan until the lentils are tender and well cooked.
2. Drain the remaining water and allow to cool.
3. Remove the bay leaves and place the lentils in a blender.
4. Add oil and blend until desired spread consistency.
5. Serve with bread or as a dip.
These, like many other recipes, refute the misconception that in order for food to have taste and flavor it is necessary to use meat, dairy products, or eggs. Vegetables can be prepared in numerous appetizing ways that are also pleasing to the eye.
It is important to safeguard our body and avoid unhealthy foods because the Word of God teaches us that the body is the temple of the Spirit of God, and we have a duty to protect it, keep it fit and healthy, but that does not mean keeping a miserable tasteless diet!
