A Nourishing Plate is a healthy cooking resource with the goal of teaching how to cook, not just follow a recipe.
What you'll find here
〰️ dairy-free recipes with a focus on adaptability: how can you use what you already have on hand to make a recipe work for you? Many ideas are included in each post depending on what's in season, in your pantry, or to fit your dietary needs.
〰️ how to use recipes as a starting point or template (not a rule book) with ideas on how to put your own spin on it to get you more comfortable cooking this way.
〰️ tips to help you cook more creatively and resourceful - less food waste.
〰️ cooking basics - cooking tips and methods that will always come in handy such as tomato paste pizza sauce, homemade vinaigrettes, or oven-cooked bacon.
〰️ ingredient pairings - these help you figure out what goes with lemons or spinach or the limp carrots in your fridge.
〰️ ingredient substitutions - because you really don't need to run to the store for one ingredient.
Perfectionism doesn't exist
So many things can affect why a recipe doesn't always turn out even if you follow it "perfectly". I've noticed that people are so afraid to deviate from a recipe for fear of failure or that it won't be "perfect" so they diligently follow along even if it tastes mediocre at best.
And then are disappointed with the outcome.
Cooking is all about making small adjustments until it tastes good to YOU - something a recipe can't tell you.
Why adaptable recipes?
I first started cooking this way years ago when I was having health issues, was on a restricted diet protocol, and had found out about my dairy allergy.
I couldn't find many recipes that fit my needs. So, I took matters into my own hands. I'd find a recipe for inspiration or to give me a starting point and then I'd use whatever ingredients I had and make small adjustments until it tasted the way I wanted it to and also made me feel good.
Along the way, I became interested in being more resourceful and mindful in the kitchen, which meant using what I already had on hand and not contributing to unnecessary food waste. Which then led me to create a capsule pantry.
Not only have my cooking skills greatly improved by cooking this way, but it's also so much more enjoyable and relaxing, and far less stressful.
Let me show you how!