Book Review: Raw Energy

 "Raw Energy: 124 Raw Food Recipes for Energy Bars, Smoothies and Other Snacks to Supercharge Your Body"

(Photo Credit: Food & Beverage World.com)

Raw energy, um I could use some of that, and maybe after reading Stephanie Tourles book -- by the same name -- I will be on my way thanks to her super healthy non-cooked soup recipes. Although, the book is packed with raw recipes ranging from vegetable chips, trail mixes, energy bars, smoothies and even cookies and candies, the obvious focus for this review is all about her soups.

Having a raw focus means that none of the soups in Tourles book are cooked or use processed ingredients. I've featured a few raw soups on Soupy like this chilled watermelon/lime soup and Jessica Hulett's raw spinach soup and am certainly a fan of simplicity in the kitchen (not to mention reaping the benefits of eating raw). After reading Tourles' collection of soup recipes there are so many more exciting soup recipes to try out that only require a blender and some patience while the soups chill. Here are some of my favorites.

1. Tahitian mango ginger soup recipe, which also happens to be the first recipe to kick-off the soup section, is described as having a "delicious hint of warming spices" that also aids the digestive system and cleans the kidneys. I love the combination of mint sprigs, gingerroot and curry -- and the fact that it only takes a few minutes to prep doesn't hurt.

2, Honey melon pear soup sounds like the perfect and refreshing recipe for those sticky and humid summer months. Essentially just the melons and some honey and lime the soup is a great source of vitamin C, fiber and just happens to relieve constipation.

3. Cucumber avocado cream soup actually doesn't have any cream, but is a creamy-like soup with a kick thanks to the use of avocados and jalpeno peppers. Now, that is an interesting combo and this  "beauty soup" (described by Tourles) is a great source of antioxidants, healthy fat, protein and fiber.

Other yummy soups featured in "Raw Energy" cool cucumber cress soup, raspberry ricky soup, papaya sunset soup and dreamy carrot cream soup.

Check out Tourles' book. Couldn't we all use a little more 'raw energy' in our lives?

Serioulsy Soupy Serena

Soup Book Review—A Beautiful Bowl of Soup

A Beautiful Bowl of Soup By Paulette Mitchell

Writing about soups isn't the easiest thing in the world, but you would never be able to tell that from reading Paulette Mitchell's "A Beautiful Bowl of Soup." Oozing with charm and an oh-so-warm personality only found by someone who truly loves what they are writing about, Mitchell's book about vegetarian soup preparation comes across as an effortless feat that newbie's and novice soup lovers are sure to enjoy.

Utilizing seasonal ingredients and featuring methods of soup preparation from around the world, "A Beautiful Bowl of Soup" makes it seem as if anyone can confidently prepare soups (and we can). Especially since Mitchell is there to gently hold our hands as we tackle the ins and outs of soup prep, including what equipment and ingredients we need, to how to make our own broth, to perfecting classic recipes, and how to make our soups really come together by making our own garnishes. And as we learn that soup is actually not-so-difficult to make through Mitchell's easy-to-understand instructions and tips, she lets go of her grasp and allows us to try some of her tasty variations all our own.

And of course what is a good soup book without the pictures? The stunning, textured, and not to mention mouth-watering images by William Meppen creates visually appealing connection to Mitchell's recipes that allows such creations as Chestnut Soup, Moroccan Red Lentil-Bean Stew, and even the seemingly boring Lettuce Soup come to life. Whether you prefer a creamy, hearty, cold, or a sweet dessert soup, "A Beautiful Bowl of Soup" is sure to feature something for everyone, including even the most verocious meat eater.

Photo Credit: Chronicle Books
"A Beautiful Bowl of Soup—the Best Vegetarian Recipes"
by: Paulette Mitchell
Photos by William Meppem
Chronicle Books—2004
Check it out at:
Amazon.com