Beyond the Peanut.

My day started with an appointment with a naturopathic doctor, then I went to the Toronto Vegetarian Association's 26th Annual Vegetarian Fair, then I came home and cooked Indian curry and made brownies. What a day! Talking health, shopping for veg products, and having fun in the kitchen... all of my favorite things :P

One amazing product that I picked up at the veg fair was Hemp Seed Butter (http://www.manitobaharvest.com/cartshop/productview.asp?key=10). Hemp seeds are nutritional powerhouses. They are very high in protein, fiber, and have omega-3 fatty acids. Hemp seed butter not only tastes good, but it looks good. (Just imagine your toast gleaming a beautiful forest green color).

Speaking of seed butters, I really want to encourage people to think "Beyond the Peanut". There are SO many nut and seed butters out there beyond peanut butter. Sure, PB is great, but the same old, same old can be boring. Instead, try lathering your morning toast with the following butters...

hemp seed butter, pumpkin seed butter, sesame seed butter (aka tahini), walnut butter, pecan butter, almond butter, cashew butter, hazelnut butter, sunflower seed butter, and macadamia nut butter

Remember, they won't taste like peanut butter (because they aren't made of peanuts!). My advice when trying a new food is to consider the food as just that, new. Avoid comparing the food to anything else you are used to. This way you will (most likely) better appreciate the taste of the new food.