Best of 2011

Fond memories of 2011 dance in my head.  So much happened in so little time.  This time last year I hadn't dreamed of spending my summer in Thailand and Bali.  Starting my own business wasn't on my mind; let alone enrolling in The Institute for Integrative Nutrition to become a certified health coach!  I knew I wanted to start filming my own cooking show, but could not have imagined how much fun it would be.  Also, in 2011 I became a vegan and discovered raw food.  Never before have I felt so energetic and healthy!  Never before have I felt so comfortable in my own skin and confident in my abilities. 

I thought it would be nice to put together my favorite recipes of 2011.  I narrowed down my top 5, in no particular order.  I chose the recipes that make me feel best when I'm eating them.  These recipes tantalize my tastebuds and ignite my endorphins, all while satisfying me to the core. 

If you've created or discovered any awesome recipes in 2011 I'd love to hear about them too. 
I wish you a happy New Year.  I can't wait to see you in 2012.  There's a lot in the works for Sweet Potato Soul!

Sweet Potato Soul's Top 5 Recipes:

1. Walnut Macaroons
     This past spring my church held a bake-off to raise money for the youth program; and these babies won!   They were also the dessert featured in my very first cooking video.  This recipe comes from one of  my favorite cookbooks, The Artful Vegan. 
2. Banana Brownies
     If you like chocolate and bananas then I guarantee you're going to love these decadent brownies.  Coconut cream replaces butter in this recipe.  Don't miss the video!

3. Bali Inspired Brussels Sprouts
    Because Bali will always hold a special place in my heart : )
4. Quinoa Pilaf with Spiced Miso Tahini Sauce
     One of my newest recipes, this quinoa pilaf is easy to make and even easier to devour.  
5. Collard Green Miso Soup
     My mom has never been a fan of cooking, but she'll get in the kitchen to make this soup.  Funny, I had forgotten about this recipe until my mom called me a few months ago to tell me she made it for dinner.  Since that day she makes this soup multiple times a week!
6. BONUS: Raw Apple Pie
     I could not compile a list of my favorite recipes without adding a raw dessert.  I LOVE LOVE LOVE this; and the video will be here soon!

THANKS FOR READING SWEET POTATO SOUL.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!