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<channel>
	<title>A Dash of Compassion &#187; agar flakes</title>
	<atom:link href="/tag/agar-flakes/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>http://www.adashofcompassion.com</link>
	<description>natural, cruelty-free recipes</description>
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	<item>
		<title>Sunshine in a jar</title>
		<link>http://www.adashofcompassion.com/2012/03/sunshine-in-a-jar/</link>
		<comments>http://www.adashofcompassion.com/2012/03/sunshine-in-a-jar/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 30 Mar 2012 21:44:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicole]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[dessert]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[frostings & fillings]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gluten-free]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pies & tarts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[recipe]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vegan]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[agar flakes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[apple juice]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[arrowroot]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[coconut flakes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[coconut milk]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dates]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[lemon]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[macadamia nuts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[maple syrup]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[milk (non-dairy)]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[oats]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tumeric]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.adashofcompassion.com/?p=2498</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[If the weather last week is any indication of what's to come this spring and summer, bring it on. As far as I'm concerned, it can never come too soon, especially when I've got a long list of outdoor projects to accomplish. ]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>If the weather last week is any indication of what&#8217;s to come this spring and summer, bring it on. As far as I&#8217;m concerned, it can never come too soon, especially when I&#8217;ve got a long list of outdoor projects to accomplish. Yet, when I saw this weekend&#8217;s forecast (snow? scattered flurries?) this morning, my spring fever quickly took a nose dive.</p>
<p>Okay, so maybe the weather gods have some winter leftovers to get out of their systems before the sun starts shining again. Either way, I&#8217;m already starting to crave lighter, brighter, no-bake desserts that go along with the warmer months. One of my favourite summertime recipes involves a bright yellow lemon filling reminiscent of lemon meringue pie and made from a few simple ingredients that are lightly simmered on the stovetop and then chilled in the fridge until set.</p>
<p>The combination of fresh apple juice, lemons, maple syrup and almond milk never tasted so good.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-2845 size-full" src="/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSC_2361-1.jpg" alt="Sunshine in a Jar | A Dash of Compassion" width="424" height="640" /></p>
<p>After making my lemon filling recipe in tart form for a few years now (I recall teasing you with <a href="/2011/10/thanksgiving-up-north/" target="_blank">photos</a> last year), I decided it was time to create something just a little different. Enter my &#8220;sunshine in a jar,&#8221; a wholesome treat that layers an oat-nut crust, a fresh take on my lemon filling using <a href="http://localfoods.about.com/od/lemons/a/meyerlemons.htm" target="_blank">meyer lemons</a>, and a coconut whipped cream topping in individual mason jars (I used the 250ml size).</p>
<p>This is a great dessert for picnics or travel because you can snap on the jar lids to keep them safe from harm&#8217;s way. You could even take it a step further and decorate the jar lids with pretty fabric and ribbon for special occasions if you wanted to!</p>
<p><span id="more-2498"></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-2843 size-full" src="/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSC_2174-1.jpg" alt="Sunshine in a Jar | A Dash of Compassion" width="640" height="426" /></p>
<p>I loved this creation so much that it may become my go-to recipe for the summer. The meyer lemons used here give the filling a sweeter taste and light, herbal fragrance, but if you can&#8217;t find them, feel free to substitute regular lemons. Enjoy!</p>
<div class="recipe hrecipe">
<img src="/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/DSC_2340-170x170.jpg" class="photo" align="right" width="110" height="110" nopin="nopin" />

		
<span class="item">
<h2 class="fn">Sunshine in a jar</h2>
</span>


<div class="time">
<p><strong>Yield:</strong> <span class="yield">4 (250ml) mason jar servings</span></p>
</div>


<div class="left">
<h3 style="clear:left">Ingredients:</h3>
<div class="ingredient"><h4 id="zlrecipe-ingredient-0">For the crust:</h4>
<ul>
<li>1 cup rolled oats (use certified gluten-free, if necessary)</li>
<li>1/2 cup raw macadamia nuts</li>
<li>1/4 cup unsweetened coconut flakes</li>
<li>1/2 cup chopped dates</li>
<li>1/4 tsp sea salt</li>
<li>1/2 tbsp water, or as needed</li>
</ul>
<h4 id="zlrecipe-ingredient-8">For the filling:</h4>
<ul>
<li>1 1/3 cup pure unsweetened apple juice</li>
<li>3 tbsp <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0017OAKLM?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=adasofcom-20&amp;linkCode=xm2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creativeASIN=B0017OAKLM" target="_blank">agar flakes</a></li>
<li>1/2 cup pure maple syrup</li>
<li>1/2 cup + 2 tbsp nondairy milk</li>
<li>pinch of salt and tumeric</li>
<li>4 tsp arrowroot</li>
<li>1/4 cup fresh meyer lemon juice</li>
<li>1/4 cup fresh lemon juice</li>
<li>1 tsp meyer lemon zest</li>
</ul>
<h4 id="zlrecipe-ingredient-19">For the coconut whipped cream:</h4>
<ul id="zlrecipe-ingredients-list">
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-20">See recipe <a href="/2012/01/dark-chocolate-mousse-cups/" target="_blank">here</a></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>

<div class="right">
<h3 style="clear:left">Directions:</h3>
<div class="instructions"><h4 id="zlrecipe-instruction-0">For the crust:</h4>
<ol>
<ol>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-1">Using a food processor, process the oats, nuts and coconut flakes to a coarse meal.</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-2">Add the dates and salt and process until well combined. Add water as needed to form a mixture that sticks together when pressed between two fingers.</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-3">Press the mixture evenly into the bottom of four 250ml mason jars.</li>
</ol>
</ol>
<h4 id="zlrecipe-instruction-4">For the lemon filling:</h4>
<ol id="zlrecipe-instructions-list">
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-5">Pour the apple juice into a saucepan and sprinkle the agar flakes on top. Swirl the pan lightly to wet all the flakes and then set aside for about 20 minutes to allow the agar to soften.</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-6">In the meantime, measure out the maple syrup, 1/2 cup nondairy milk, salt and tumeric in a small bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the 2 tbsp nondairy milk and arrowroot. Finally, in another bowl or cup, measure out the meyer and regular lemon juices and zest.</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-7">Heat the apple juice and agar mixture over medium heat and cover the saucepan until it comes to a boil. Uncover, reduce the heat to low, and lightly stir the mixture to release the agar flakes from the bottom of the pan. Cover and simmer for about 10 minutes, or until the agar has completely dissolved.</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-8">Add the maple syrup mixture to the saucepan and lightly stir for about a minute. Next, add the arrowroot mixture and whisk to combine. Increase the temperature to medium and cook only until the mixture comes to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice mixture.</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-9">Pour the mixture into a bowl and allow to cool before pouring evenly over top of the crust in the mason jars. Place the jars in the fridge to set, about one hour. Top with coconut whipped cream.</li>
</ol>
</div>
</div>

<div class="notes"><p>Lemon filling recipe adapted from Fran Costigan's <a href="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=adasofcom-20&amp;l=as2&amp;o=1&amp;a=1570671834" target="_blank">More Great Good Dairy Free Desserts Naturally</a>. After a few trials, I've learned that the coconut whipped cream thickens the longer it sits in the fridge, so it's best to make this ahead.</p>
</div>

</div>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>14</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Dark chocolate mousse cups</title>
		<link>http://www.adashofcompassion.com/2012/01/dark-chocolate-mousse-cups/</link>
		<comments>http://www.adashofcompassion.com/2012/01/dark-chocolate-mousse-cups/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 14 Jan 2012 19:53:35 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicole]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[dessert]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gluten-free]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pudding]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[recipe]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vegan]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[agar flakes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[agave nectar]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chocolate]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cocoa powder]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[coconut milk]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[icing sugar]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[milk (non-dairy)]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[peanut butter]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vanilla extract]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vanilla powder]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.adashofcompassion.com/?p=2234</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[For most of the year I have a variety of nut and seed butters taking up precious space in my fridge. They're typically either homemade or poured from the local health food store bulk bins and stored in short, wide-mouthed jars. They sit quietly, waiting to be called upon for cookies, tarts, rice bars, or quite often just a quick spoonful to the mouth. In other words, nut butters are in my line of sight every time I open the fridge, so I'm always looking for ways to use them.
]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>For most of the year, I have a variety of nut and seed butters taking up precious space in my fridge. They&#8217;re typically either homemade or poured from the local health food store bulk bins and stored in short, wide-mouthed mason jars. They sit quietly, waiting to be called upon for <a href="/2011/02/flourless-almond-ginger-cookies/" target="_blank">cookies</a>, <a href="/2011/08/peanut-caramel-and-chocolate-tart/" target="_blank">tarts</a>, <a href="/2010/08/here-comes-the-sun/" target="_blank">rice bars</a>, or quite often just a quick spoonful to the mouth. In other words, nut butters are in my line of sight every time I open the fridge, so I&#8217;m always looking for ways to use them.</p>
<p>My <a href="/2011/05/creamy-chocolate-torte/" target="_blank">creamy chocolate torte recipe</a> came to mind last week when I was dreaming about desserts (which I&#8217;m embarrassed to admit happens all too often). I imagined the mousse filling would make a lovely after-dinner dessert served in individual glasses and topped with coconut whipped cream and chopped chocolate and nuts.</p>
<p>The next day, I made that dream come true.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-2245 size-full" src="/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/Chocolate-mousse-cups1.jpg" alt="Vegan Dark Chocolate Mousse Cups | A Dash of Compassion" width="640" height="480" /></p>
<p>Let me tell you straight up: this mousse is no pudding in a cup. It&#8217;s thick and rich and melt-in-your-mouth smooth—everything you&#8217;d want in a sophisticated yet simple dessert.</p>
<p>The secret is in the coconut milk. Make sure to purchase a brand with a high fat content (check the nutritional label to make sure it&#8217;s at least 20%) and place it in the fridge overnight so that the cream separates from the liquid. (While you&#8217;re at it, refrigerate a second can for the coconut whipped cream topping.)  Oh, and good quality dark chocolate is also key to making this mousse truly orgasmic (I use <a href="http://www.lasiembra.com/camino/en/chocolate-bars" target="_blank">Camino</a> dark chocolate bars with 65% cacao).<span id="more-2234"></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-2241 size-full" src="/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/DSC_1470.jpg" alt="Vegan Dark Chocolate Mousse Cups | A Dash of Compassion" width="640" height="427" /></p>
<p>One thing I love about this recipe is its versatility. Since there are a myriad of flavour pairings that work well with chocolate, you can put your own spin on it by swapping out the 2 tablespoons of nut butter for your preferred flavour.</p>
<p>For the mousse pictured here, I used macadamia nut butter, but I&#8217;ve also experimented with peanut butter (Reese&#8217;s Pieces, oh how I&#8217;ve missed you!), almond butter (a pairing that will never go out of style), and even pureed raspberries (strained) in place of the nut butter for a more sophisticated version.</p>
<p>Hubby and I will be enjoying this dessert for our third anniversary this weekend. I can&#8217;t wait.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-2246 size-full" src="/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/DSC_1423.jpg" alt="Vegan Dark Chocolate Mousse Cups | A Dash of Compassion" width="424" height="640" /></p>
<p>As always, I had my kitty cat on hand to help with photo styling&#8230;or by sitting in the way of my window light. Please meet Eli, my new photo assistant and the pesky little brother of <a href="/2010/11/world-please-meet-leola/" target="_blank">Leola</a>. He&#8217;s quite the character, and he&#8217;s also got the loudest motor I&#8217;ve ever heard. He was even purring when this photo was snapped!</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-2257 size-large" src="/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/DSC_1408-550x364.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="364" /></p>
<div class="recipe hrecipe">
<img src="/wp-content/uploads/2012/01/DSC_1423-170x170.jpg" class="photo" align="right" width="110" height="110" nopin="nopin" />

		
<span class="item">
<h2 class="fn">Dark chocolate mousse cups</h2>
</span>


<div class="time">
<p><strong>Yield:</strong> <span class="yield">4 servings</span></p>
</div>


<div class="left">
<h3 style="clear:left">Ingredients:</h3>
<div class="ingredient"><ul id="zlrecipe-ingredients-list">
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-0" class="ingredient">1/2 cup nondairy milk</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-1" class="ingredient">1 tbsp <a class="ingredient-link" href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0017OAKLM?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=adasofcom-20&amp;linkCode=xm2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creativeASIN=B0017OAKLM" target="_blank">agar flakes</a></li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-2" class="ingredient">1 can full-fat coconut milk, refrigerated overnight</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-3" class="ingredient">3 oz. dark chocolate, chopped</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-4" class="ingredient">1/4 cup agave nectar</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-5" class="ingredient">2 tbsp cocoa powder, sifted</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-6" class="ingredient">2 tbsp natural peanut butter (or other nut butter)</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-7" class="ingredient">1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-8" class="ingredient">pinch of salt</li>
</ul>
<h4>Coconut whipped cream:</h4>
<ul id="zlrecipe-ingredients-list">
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-11" class="ingredient">1 can full-fat coconut milk, refrigerated overnight</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-12" class="ingredient">1/4 cup vegan powdered sugar, or more to taste</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-13" class="ingredient">1/4 tsp vanilla bean powder (or pure vanilla extract)</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-14" class="ingredient">3 tbsp <a class="ingredient-link" href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000QSS2C4?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=adasofcom-20&amp;linkCode=xm2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creativeASIN=B000QSS2C4" target="_blank">Ener-G</a> egg replacer (optional)</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>

<div class="right">
<h3 style="clear:left">Directions:</h3>
<div class="instructions"><ol class="instructions">
<ol class="instructions">
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-0" class="instruction">Pour the nondairy milk in a medium saucepan, sprinkle the agar flakes on top and swirl the pan lightly. Let sit for at least 20 minutes to allow the agar flakes to soften.</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-1" class="instruction">Scoop out the coconut cream from the top of the can of coconut milk (reserve the remaining liquid for other uses) and add it and the chocolate to the pan. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the cream and chocolate are melted.</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-2" class="instruction">Pour the mixture into a blender and add the remaining ingredients. Blend for 2 or 3 minutes until smooth and bubbly.</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-3" class="instruction">Divide the mixture between four serving glasses and lightly tap on your counter to loosen any air bubbles. Place the glasses in the fridge to set, about 2 hours. Garnish with coconut whipped cream and chopped chocolate and nuts, if desired.</li>
</ol>
</ol>
<h4 id="zlrecipe-instruction-4" class="instruction-label">Coconut whipped cream:</h4>
<ol id="zlrecipe-instructions-list" class="instructions">
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-5" class="instruction">For best results, place your mixing bowl and whisk attachment in the freezer for about 30 minutes.</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-6" class="instruction">Scoop the coconut cream from the top of the can of coconut milk (reserve the remaining liquid for other uses) and place it in the cold mixing bowl. Add the powdered sugar, vanilla bean powder and egg replacer (this is entirely optional, but it helps create a lighter, fluffier texture) and whisk until soft peaks form.</li>
</ol>
</div>
</div>


</div>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.adashofcompassion.com/2012/01/dark-chocolate-mousse-cups/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>26</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Creamy chocolate torte</title>
		<link>http://www.adashofcompassion.com/2011/05/creamy-chocolate-torte/</link>
		<comments>http://www.adashofcompassion.com/2011/05/creamy-chocolate-torte/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 14 May 2011 16:59:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicole]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[cakes & cupcakes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dessert]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[frozen desserts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[recipe]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vegan]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[agar flakes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[agave nectar]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[chocolate]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cocoa powder]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[coconut milk]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[coconut oil]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[maple syrup]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[milk (non-dairy)]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[peanut butter]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[spelt flour]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vanilla extract]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.adashofcompassion.com/2011/05/creamy-chocolate-torte/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[As a new recipe contributor to One Green Planet, I'm ecstatic to announce my debut! This fantastic website is dedicated to spreading ideas and knowledge about the environment and vegan living. If you haven't already come across this site, I suggest you pay a visit.]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>As a new recipe contributor to <a href="http://www.onegreenplanet.org/" target="_blank">One Green Planet</a>, I&#8217;m ecstatic to announce my <a href="http://www.onegreenplanet.org/foodandhealth/recipe-creamy-chocolate-torte/" target="_blank">debut</a>! This fantastic website is dedicated to spreading ideas and knowledge about the environment and vegan living. If you haven&#8217;t already come across this site, I suggest you pay a visit. It has quite a long roster of excellent <a href="http://www.onegreenplanet.org/about-us/" target="_blank">contributors</a>, including Gene Baur of <a href="http://www.farmsanctuary.org/farm/" target="_blank">Farm Sanctuary</a>; renowned author and activist <a href="http://www.caroljadams.com/" target="_blank">Carol J. Adams</a>; author and speaker <a href="http://www.brendadavisrd.com/" target="_blank">Brenda Davis</a>, RD; and many other experts, authors and bloggers (including me!), who are supporting the important cause.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-417 size-large" src="/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Torte18-550x365.jpg" alt="Creamy Chocolate Torte | A Dash of Compassion" width="550" height="365" /></p>
<p>My debut featured a recipe for a decadent chocolate torte: a thick layer of chocolate cake makes up the base, and the rest is the creamiest, richest and perhaps most intense little slice of pure chocolate sweetness I&#8217;ve ever created. Enjoy!<span id="more-76"></span></p>
<div class="recipe hrecipe">
<img src="/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/Torte18-170x170.jpg" class="photo" align="right" width="110" height="110" nopin="nopin" />

		
<span class="item">
<h2 class="fn">Creamy chocolate torte</h2>
</span>


<div class="time">
<p><strong>Yield:</strong> <span class="yield">one 6-inch cake</span></p>
</div>


<div class="left">
<h3 style="clear:left">Ingredients:</h3>
<div class="ingredient"><h4>Cake:</h4>
<ul>
<li>1/2 cup spelt flour</li>
<li>3 tbsp cocoa powder, sifted</li>
<li>1/4 tsp baking powder</li>
<li>1/4 tsp sea salt</li>
<li>1/4 cup coconut oil</li>
<li>1/4 cup pure maple syrup</li>
<li>2 tbsp nondairy milk</li>
<li>1 tsp pure vanilla extract</li>
</ul>
<h4>Mousse filling:</h4>
<ul>
<li>1/4 cup nondairy milk</li>
<li>1 tbsp agar flakes</li>
<li>1 cup coconut cream (see note)<strong><br />
</strong></li>
<li>3 oz dark chocolate, chopped (or 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips)</li>
<li>2 tbsp cocoa powder, sifted</li>
<li>1/4 cup agave nectar</li>
<li>1 1/2 tbsp natural smooth peanut butter</li>
<li>1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>

<div class="right">
<h3 style="clear:left">Directions:</h3>
<div class="instructions"><h4>For the cake:</h4>
<ol>
<li>In a small saucepan, combine the coconut oil, maple syrup, nondairy milk and vanilla and heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the coconut oil melts.</li>
<li>Pour the liquid mixture into the dry mixture and stir just to combine. It will be a very thin batter.</li>
<li>Pour the batter into a lightly oiled 6-inch springform pan and tap the bottom of the pan on your counter to loosen any air bubbles.</li>
<li>Bake at 350 degrees for about 12 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the crust comes out clean.</li>
<li>Allow to completely cool in the pan.</li>
</ol>
<h4>For the mousse filling:</h4>
<ol>
<li>Pour the nondairy milk in a medium saucepan, sprinkle the agar flakes on top and swirl the pan lightly. Let sit for at least 20 minutes to allow the agar flakes to soften.</li>
<li>Add the coconut cream and chocolate to the pan and heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the cream and chocolate are melted.</li>
<li>Pour the mixture into a blender and add the remaining ingredients. Blend for 2 or 3 minutes until smooth and bubbly.</li>
<li>Pour the mixture onto the top of the crust in the springform pan and tap the pan on your counter to loosen any air bubbles.</li>
<li>Put the pan in the freezer to set, about 2 hours. Garnish with peanut butter and chopped peanuts, if desired.</li>
<li>If storing overnight, wrap the pan tightly with plastic wrap and tin foil. To serve, remove from the freezer, unwrap and let sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before cutting and serving.</li>
</ol>
</div>
</div>

<div class="notes"><p>Coconut cream is merely the cream from the top of a can of full-fat coconut milk (look for brands with at least 20% fat content). You should get about 1 cup of cream from one can. The remaining water at the bottom can be reserved for other uses.</p>
</div>

</div>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>8</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Sweet nori bars</title>
		<link>http://www.adashofcompassion.com/2011/02/sweet-nori-bars/</link>
		<comments>http://www.adashofcompassion.com/2011/02/sweet-nori-bars/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 15 Feb 2011 21:27:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicole]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[cookies & squares]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gluten-free]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[recipe]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[snacks]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vegan]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[agar flakes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[brown rice cereal]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[brown rice syrup]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[coconut oil]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hemp seeds]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[nori]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[peanuts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sunflower seeds]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wasabi paste]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.adashofcompassion.com/2011/02/sweet-nori-bars/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I often surprise myself when the smallest thing inspires me to create something fantastic. Take these sweet nori bars as an interesting example of what can come out of reading an old issue of an unknown women's magazine while sweating to the beat of Rihanna's "Rude Boy" on the elliptical.]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I often surprise myself when the smallest thing inspires me to create something fantastic. Take these sweet nori bars as an interesting example of what can come out of reading an old issue of an unknown women&#8217;s magazine while sweating to the beat of Rihanna&#8217;s &#8220;<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e82VE8UtW8A" target="_blank">Rude Boy</a>&#8221; on the elliptical. Firstly, reading or thinking about food while exercising your brains out is not advised. Secondly, having a <a href="http://www.bulkbarn.ca/en-ca/index.html" target="_blank">Bulk Barn</a> so conveniently located beside the gym and stumbling towards it after your workout in a sweat- and hunger-induced haze is also not advised. It only leads to temptation at its worst.</p>
<p class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">But alas, that is what I did after reading the magazine article about sushi and remembering that I still had a package of nori in my cupboard that really needed to be used up. But, unfortunately, I&#8217;m not a fan of sushi-making. So what to do?</p>
<p class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I&#8217;ve had healthy snack ideas on the brain since increasing my cardio routine a few weeks ago so, after collecting some simple ingredients in bulk, I came up with these no-bake brown rice cereal bars that are made up of all the delicious flavour components of sushi, minus the rolling and vegetable slicing. They include hints of nori, peanuts, sesame and wasabi combined with crunchy brown rice cereal and the subtle addition of brown rice syrup and coconut oil. Super yum.</p>
<p class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-466 size-large" src="/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/nori4-550x365.jpg" alt="Sweet Nori Bars | A Dash of Compassion" width="550" height="365" /></p>
<p class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When creating these treats, I experimented with different liquid sweeteners and I found that the thick brown rice syrup combined with enough agar flakes worked out best as a binding agent, so you won&#8217;t see these babies falling apart as soon as they hit room temperature. This recipe also requires sheets of nori that are crisp enough to crumble into tiny pieces. The easiest way to do that is to place the sheets directly on your oven rack and toast them at 350 degrees for a few minutes until slightly crisp. You can lightly toast your peanuts and seeds at the same time. Enjoy!<span id="more-58"></span></p>
<p class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="recipe hrecipe">
<img src="/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/nori4-170x170.jpg" class="photo" align="right" width="110" height="110" nopin="nopin" />

		
<span class="item">
<h2 class="fn">Sweet nori bars</h2>
</span>


<div class="time">
</div>


<div class="left">
<h3 style="clear:left">Ingredients:</h3>
<div class="ingredient"><ul id="zlrecipe-ingredients-list">
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-0" class="ingredient">1/2 cup <a class="ingredient-link" href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0050D3KLI?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=adasofcom-20&amp;linkCode=xm2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creativeASIN=B0050D3KLI" target="_blank">brown rice syrup</a></li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-1" class="ingredient">6 tbsp coconut oil</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-2" class="ingredient">1/2 tsp sea salt</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-3" class="ingredient">1/4 tsp <a class="ingredient-link" href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002YGSAU?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=adasofcom-20&amp;linkCode=xm2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creativeASIN=B0002YGSAU" target="_blank">wasabi paste</a></li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-4" class="ingredient">3 1/2 tbsp <a class="ingredient-link" href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0017OAKLM?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=adasofcom-20&amp;linkCode=xm2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creativeASIN=B0017OAKLM" target="_blank">agar flakes</a></li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-5" class="ingredient">2 cups crispy brown rice cereal (like <a class="ingredient-link" href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001E5E3AI?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=adasofcom-20&amp;linkCode=xm2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creativeASIN=B001E5E3AI" target="_blank">Erewhon brand</a>)</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-6" class="ingredient">1/2 cup toasted peanuts</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-7" class="ingredient">1/3 cup toasted sunflower seeds</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-8" class="ingredient">1/3 cup toasted, hulled sesame seeds</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-9" class="ingredient">2 sheets toasted nori, crumbled</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>

<div class="right">
<h3 style="clear:left">Directions:</h3>
<div class="instructions"><ol id="zlrecipe-instructions-list" class="instructions">
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-0" class="instruction">In a medium saucepan, combine the brown rice syrup, coconut oil, salt and wasabi. Sprinkle the agar flakes on top and gently stir. Heat over medium-low until the coconut oil melts and the mixture comes to a light boil. Simmer for about 30 seconds until the mixture begins to thicken slightly. Remove from heat.</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-1" class="instruction">Add the brown rice cereal, peanuts, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds and nori. Stir until well combined, making sure the dry ingredients are well coated with the syrup mixture.</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-2" class="instruction">Spoon the mixture into a 8 x 8-inch square pan, pressing down gently and spreading it out evenly using the back of a spoon. Place the pan in the freezer for about one hour to firm up. Cut into bars using a sharp knife. Store in an air-tight container in the fridge or freezer.</li>
</ol>
</div>
</div>


</div></p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Mint-infused cream tart</title>
		<link>http://www.adashofcompassion.com/2010/08/im-on-a-roll/</link>
		<comments>http://www.adashofcompassion.com/2010/08/im-on-a-roll/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 08 Aug 2010 17:57:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Nicole]]></dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[dessert]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pies & tarts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[recipe]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vegan]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[agar flakes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[all-purpose flour]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[almonds]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[arrowroot]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cane sugar]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cocoa powder]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[maple syrup]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[milk (non-dairy)]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[mint]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[soy yogurt]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sunflower oil]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[vanilla extract]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[whole wheat flour]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.adashofcompassion.com/2010/08/im-on-a-roll/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Because I'm so happy with the outcome of the first recipe I submitted to the SOS Kitchen Challenge, I decided to attempt another minty treat idea I had floating around in my head for the last two days.]]></description>
				<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Because I&#8217;m so happy with the outcome of the first <a href="/2010/08/minty-fresh-flavours/" target="_blank">recipe</a> I submitted to the <a href="http://www.dietdessertndogs.com/2010/08/04/sos-kitchen-challenge-for-august/" target="_blank">SOS Kitchen Challenge</a>, I decided to attempt another minty treat idea I had floating around in my head for the last two days.</p>
<p style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I know for a fact that this recipe would not have worked out in my favour if it wasn&#8217;t for the teachings of <a href="http://www.francostigan.com/index.html" target="_blank">Fran Costigan</a>. Back in June, I had the opportunity to attend her Vegan Baking Boot Camp Intensive at the <a href="http://www.naturalgourmetinstitute.com/" target="_blank">Natural Gourmet Institute</a> in New York, and I am so grateful for all the knowledge I was able to soak up during the week I was there. Nothing beats hands-on lessons from the queen of vegan desserts herself, and in a professional kitchen!</p>
<p class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-2208 size-full" src="/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/Blog18.jpg" alt="Mint Infused Cream Tart | A Dash of Compassion" width="640" height="480" /></p>
<p>This sweet dessert recipe started with the creation of a veganized version of panna cotta,  a traditional Italian dessert usually made by simmering cream, milk and sugar, mixing in gelatin and then letting it cool until set. For the SOS challenge, I opted to create a mint-infused panna cotta as a filling for cocoa-enhanced almond tart crusts, with the addition of a pretty swirl of strawberry or chocolate cream. This recipe makes enough for 4 individual tarts, but feel free to double the recipe to make a full 9-inch tart.<span id="more-6"></span></p>
<p class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-1015 size-large" src="/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/mint_tarts3-550x365.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="365" /></p>
<p>You may have leftover cream filling, in which case you can pour it into individual ramekins. You can also do what I did and swirl pureed strawberries into the cream before refrigerating, or decorate with chocolate sauce and mint leaves.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter wp-image-1016 size-large" src="/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/mint-panna-cotta-550x827.jpg" alt="" width="550" height="827" /></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><div class="recipe hrecipe">
<img src="/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/mint-tarts2-170x170.jpg" class="photo" align="right" width="110" height="110" nopin="nopin" />

		
<span class="item">
<h2 class="fn">Mint-infused cream tarts</h2>
</span>


<div class="time">
<p><strong>Yield:</strong> <span class="yield">4 individual tarts</span></p>
</div>


<div class="left">
<h3 style="clear:left">Ingredients:</h3>
<div class="ingredient"><h4 id="zlrecipe-ingredient-0" class="ingredient-label">For the crust:</h4>
<ul>
<ul>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-1" class="ingredient">1/2 cup almonds, toasted</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-2" class="ingredient">1/4 cup whole wheat pastry flour</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-3" class="ingredient">1/4 cup unbleached all-purpose flour</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-4" class="ingredient">2 tbsp cocoa powder</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-5" class="ingredient">1/8 tsp sea salt</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-6" class="ingredient">2 tbsp sunflower or canola oil</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-7" class="ingredient">2 tbsp maple syrup</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-8" class="ingredient">1 tsp pure vanilla extract</li>
</ul>
</ul>
<h4 id="zlrecipe-ingredient-10" class="ingredient-label">For the cream filling:</h4>
<ul id="zlrecipe-ingredients-list">
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-11" class="ingredient">1 cup nondairy milk</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-12" class="ingredient">2 tbsp evaporated cane juice (or other natural sweetener)</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-13" class="ingredient">4 or 5 fresh peppermint leaves</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-14" class="ingredient">1/4 tsp sea salt</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-15" class="ingredient">1 tbsp <a class="ingredient-link" href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0017OAKLM?ie=UTF8&amp;tag=adasofcom-20&amp;linkCode=xm2&amp;camp=1789&amp;creativeASIN=B0017OAKLM" target="_blank">agar flakes</a></li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-16" class="ingredient">2 tsp arrowroot + 1 tbsp water</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-ingredient-17" class="ingredient">1/4 cup unsweetened soy yogourt</li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>

<div class="right">
<h3 style="clear:left">Directions:</h3>
<div class="instructions"><h4 id="zlrecipe-instruction-0" class="instruction-label">For the crust:</h4>
<ol class="instructions">
<ol class="instructions">
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-1" class="instruction">Grind the almonds in a food processor. Add the whole wheat pastry flour, all-purpose flour, salt and cocoa, and pulse several times. Pour into a medium mixing bowl.</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-2" class="instruction">Whisk the oil, maple syrup and vanilla extract in a small bowl until well blended. Pour into the dry mixture and mix until combined. A piece squeezed between your fingers should hold together well.</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-3" class="instruction">Press dough into the bottom and sides of well-oiled individual tart pans and refrigerate for about 15 minutes.</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-4" class="instruction">Bake at 350 on the center rack of the oven for 10 minutes, or until the crust looks dry. Cool on a wire rack.</li>
</ol>
</ol>
<h4 id="zlrecipe-instruction-5" class="instruction-label">For the cream filling:</h4>
<ol id="zlrecipe-instructions-list" class="instructions">
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-6" class="instruction">Put non-dairy milk, sugar, peppermint leaves and salt into a small saucepan. Sprinkle the agar flakes on top, swirl the pan slightly but no not stir, and let sit for at least 10 minutes.</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-7" class="instruction">Bring the mixture to a light simmer on low heat, with saucepan lid slightly ajar to let out steam. Watch carefully because it can easily boil over or burn. Let simmer on very low heat for about 15 minutes until agar is completely dissolved (occasionally examine a large spoonful for any specks of agar).</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-8" class="instruction">In a small bowl, whisk together the arrowroot and water and add to the agar mixture. Whisk constantly on low heat until it thickens.</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-9" class="instruction">Remove from heat and remove the peppermint leaves. Add the soy yogourt and whisk until smooth.</li>
<li id="zlrecipe-instruction-10" class="instruction">Spoon cream into cooled tart crusts and refrigerate until set, about an hour.</li>
</ol>
</div>
</div>


</div></p>
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</rss>