Turmeric Orange Carrot Soup
Alchemical operation: Separation (air)
Sluggish digestion occurs at the level of the Navel Chakra, which is associated with self-esteem and confidence. Using “air” in the kitchen, by sifting, pureeing, and blending, changes the texture of foods, making them lighter and easier to eat and digest.
As you blend this soup, notice how the final dish becomes more refined in both taste and texture. Think also of “sifting” through bad habits and behaviors to find your true self by setting ego aside, unblocking your Navel Chakra and tapping into your personal power.
Recipe: Turmeric Orange Carrot Soup
Serves 4
- 2 tablespoons sesame or coconut oil
- 4 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 large parsnips, peeled and chopped
- 1 onion, peeled and chopped
- 1 tablespoon minced ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground turmeric or 1 teaspoon freshly grated turmeric root
- 32 ounces vegetable broth
- 1 spring of fresh rosemary, leaves removed or 1 orange sectioned
Heat a large stockpot over medium heat and add the oil. Add the carrots, parsnips, onion, and ginger. Sprinkle with the turmeric and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and cook 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the carrots and parsnips start to brown. Add the broth and increase the heat to high. Bring to a boil, then cover. Reduce immediately to a simmer and cook 4 to 5 minutes more until the carrots become tender. Cool 5 minutes before blending until smooth. Garnish with rosemary or orange sections and serve immediately.
Per serving (2 cups): 367 calories, 7 g protein, 53 g carbohydrates, 21 g sugars, 14 g fat, 2 g saturated fat, 0 mg cholesterol, 10 g fiber, 783 mg sodium.
Tumeric Orange Carrot Soup
Basil-Spinach Pesto with Gluten-Free Pasta
Alchemical operation: Conjunction
The Heart Chakra is associated with love, of course, and self-care is a huge part of learning to love yourself (and having more energy to love/give to others). It starts with healthy eating, which means including plenty of detox-friendly greens and herbs in your daily meals. Basil is particularly heart-healthy, since its compounds can soothe blood vessels and promote better circulation. While preparing the following recipe, think about how you can bring your spiritual practice in conjunction with soulful activities that also nourish the body, beyond cooking to other parts of your life.
Recipe: Basil-Spinach Pesto with Gluten-Free Pasta
Serves 6
- 2 cups fresh basil leaves
- 5 ounces baby spinach leaves
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ¼ cup Parmesan
- 2 tablespoons walnuts
- ½ teaspoon salt
Place the basil and spinach in a food processor and roughly chop. Add the olive oil, Parmesan, walnuts, and salt, and pulse until a creamy mixture forms. Toss with your favorite pasta and serve immediately or brush over your favorite protein like chicken or shrimp and grill.
Per serving (1/4 cups): 160 calories, 2 g protein, g sugars, 1 g carbohydrates, 16 g fat, 2g saturated fat, .5 g fiber, 236 mg sodium.
