In her book, Joyful, Radhi Devlukia-Sheety presents more than 125 vegan recipes in the context of holistic wellness practices. Drawing on the Indian culinary traditions of her family as well as her own experience, the author reimages and creates recipes that will enhance a joyful and balanced lifestyle. As a clinical dietitian, nutritionist, and Ayurvedic Health Counselor, Radhi brings a whole new perspective to vegan cuisine.
Joyful is more than just a vegan cookbook. It begins with an introduction to Ayurveda (translated as “the science of life”) and provides the fundamental principles and lessons of this ancient philosophy that recommends eating more plants and spices, living in rhythm with nature and your own body, and surrounding yourself with healing energy, attitude, intention, and feelings. She includes a chart showing the benefits and sources of all the major macronutrients and vitamins, suggestions for meal building, and a description of favorite foods and kitchen tools.
The bulk of the book is devoted to recipes. They are varied and divided into ten groups based on daily rhythms: drinks, grains, lentils-beans, proteins and curries, bread, salads, vegetable main dishes, soups, condiments-dips, and crunch bits, and sweet treats. Each has an introduction giving the personal experience of the author with the dish, serving size, preparation time, list of ingredient, step by step instructions, and usually a photograph of the completed dish. The dishes are sometimes grouped without captions, however, so it may be difficult to link the recipe and the picture.
The recipes are inspired by many cuisines but often give a nod to modern American tastes. For example, there are numerous daal dishes, curries and chutneys but also Mexican lasagna, mac ‘n’ sheeze, and walnut-lentil bolognese. Yes, there are also recipes for a spicy bean burger, four naan pizzas, and tandoori tacos. For beverages, there is iced matcha tahini latte, pomgranite spritzer, and four smoothies while the dessert section offers baklava cheesecake, chocolate mud pie, and a triple-chocolate brownie black forest celebration cake. The variety of fabulous food combinations is huge and tempting!
At the end of four of the recipe chapters, Radhi includes some of her daily wellness practices. We learn that Radhi’s morning routine includes meditation, exercise and reflection, and that the kitchari reset helps the body get in sync with nature as the seasons change. Radhi shares her breathwork exercises, prayers for purification, gratitude, awareness and presence, and thoughts on eating with all the senses. As the book comes to a close, Radhi describes her evening routine that helps her fall asleep. Icing on the cake.
The personable style of writing and numerous family anecdotes make Joyful a pleasure to read. Radhi’s recipes are innovative and are presented in an inviting, easy to understand way. The introduction to Ayurveda and holistic wellness practices adds another whole layer to the enjoyment of the book.
To buy Joyfull from Amazon.com, click here.
blends culinary delights with holistic wellness practices,
reflecting Radhi’s background as a clinical dietician, nutritionist, and Ayurvedic Health Counselor.
organized into sections that align with daily rhythms
—from energizing breakfasts to comforting dinners.
delves into wellness routines, providing readers with insights into Ayurvedic practices, mindfulness, and self-care rituals.
s a guide to embracing a joyful and balanced lifestyle through mindful eating and living.
AMAZON
her daily wellness practices: her revitalizing morning skincare routine, ancient rituals to nourish and strengthen your hair, meditations and prayers for staying present, and breathwork that will carry you through each phase of the day.
offers mindful practices around cooking and explains how, as we connect to our food and understand our body, we can improve our healt
o balance health and satisfaction.
Ayurvedic cooking and her inspiring daily habits. I love how she creates harmony through food and simple rituals.
mouthwatering plant-based dishes with ancient lessons from Ayurveda
holistic wellbeing.
appreciate the beneficial health information and Ayurvedic wisdom included in the book. The uplifting message and positive tone of
too much full fat coconut milk, too much coconut sugar and other sweeteners in savory dishes b