Wednesday, May 21, 2008

Oprah - going vegan?! (and time to give!)

Well, not quite yet. But, if you caught a snippet of her show yesterday, you know that she has started on a 21-day 'cleanse', after reading the new book Quantum Wellness. Oprah had the author, Kathy Freston, on her show, who explained that she eats vegan, and considers it an essential part of being 'conscious'. Not conscious eating in the sense of thinking about our food as we eat it, but being a conscious spiritual being, which means eating healthier and in a way that involves no animal suffering.

I listened with excitement and hope. We know that Oprah has the influence and respect to evoke massive change. I realize this is a small step, and that Oprah may not continue on the vegan journey long term... but just imagine how many people have now opened their minds to eating vegan just from these few minutes of Oprah's show? Imagine how many people listened to this show hearing about vegan eating in a positive, uplifting, encouraging tone? Imagine how many people might just make dietary changes along with Oprah. Powerful. Exciting! Yes, I'm optimistic, but why not be? This topic would not have made it on Oprah ten or even five years ago. Times are changing.

Oprah expressed confusion about 'what's left to eat' on a vegan diet. Oh SO much Oprah... let us show you! Like this Sundried Tomato Pesto with Toasted Almonds and Pine Nuts from ed&bv. I posted about this pasta a long time ago, and we just had it again this past week. Doesn't it look so toothsome in this photo? I used brown rice penne pasta this time round, but feel free to try it with whole-wheat, kamut, or quinoa pasta!

Then, why not finish it off with some Cashew Banana Ice Cream (also from ed&bv)? You don't need a food processor for this one, and you may not want to buy commercial non-dairy ice creams again. This is luscious, creamy, rich, and heavenly. You know I wouldn't fib to you about something as important as ice cream! You must make this, so I will post the recipe soon!*

Feeling enthused, I need to spread the vegan joy!Time to give away a cookbook. No, two cookbooks - to one person. I want you to help me give. I'll send you two copies of ed&bv. One for you to keep and enjoy, and the other to give to someone that you know is tinkering with eating vegan. Let's help them take the plunge! Comment on this blog to enter, additional rules here.

*I'll get the recipe posted in the next couple of days guys. Still getting things in order after my mom's visit. And thanks for bearing with my delays in e-mails and blog questions and such. :)

150 comments:

Anonymous said...

Huzzah! I have been trying to gradually move myself back to Vegan, as I had been before. This would help!

Karla said...

That pasta looks wonderful!!

And, I also think that Oprah bringing this exposure will turn out to be a positive thing even if she doesn't stay vegan after the 21days.

angelacf said...

I have probably exhausted my prize winning capability HOWEVER - the guy who is the manager of the Nanaimo Running Room - Mike Thibodeau has started his vegan journey!! No no - you don't understand - he is this tall, full beard wearing, pizza eating, nature lovin runner who has inspired many of us to run & keep running over the past few years. He got me when he donated all his workshop salary to keeping Mt Benson green. SO recently he saw a documentary on catching live sharks, & that was it, no more meat. Then a 70 yr old man came into the store & told him how much harm dairy does to you & that was it. Something all just clicked. He asked me (the only vegan anyone around here knows)if he could still eat chocolate. Oh poor dear! Well I have been bringing treats to Running Room for a couple of years, so he knew he could eat treats & yesterday I took him a yummy chocolate bar. He is LOVING his new found animal free self - reading Brendan Frasier & I got him to order Becoming Vegan - so now a lovely cookbook from wonderful you would be perfect for him & his partner to enjoy.
I am so excited about Oprah - with all her people cooking for her, I wonder how she will be able to chow down on a beef burger after.

Ilana said...

I always said that if Oprah were to run for President of the United States, she would win, that's how powerful her influence is.

And ohhh that ice cream looks good.

Anonymous said...

I think it's amazing that oprah has decided to do that! she is going to make a huge impact and hopefully make those around that much more aware of our healthy lifestyle. this made my day.

Marisa L. S. said...

I'm sorry I missed the Oprah episode. How wonderful that she is doing this! After being vegetarian for many years, I'm on the track to going vegan. (I would say I'm vegan 95% of the time now and hope to be 100% soon.)

Kitty Kat said...

Dude, i don't even LIKE Oprah and i'm proud of her!

BTW, i'd be totally psyched to win!

~kitty

Yes, i use the word psyched, i am not ashamed.

Nicole said...

The pesto sounds delicious!

Also, way to go Oprah for mentioning vegan!

Anonymous said...

I don't watch Oprah myself, but that sounds great!

Renai said...

I'm starving right now and that pasta looks AMAZING!

Dana said...

yay for cookbook giveaways...

Elise said...

I was so excited to hear that someone like Oprah was eating vegan - I just pray that she likes it, otherwise I fear for the equally powerful influence any potential anti-vegan words from her might have. I think she has more tact than that, though. Keeping my fingers crossed!

Gaile said...

OOO! I have been wanting that book, and wanting to eat more vegan fare! That pasta would be a great place to start. And my friend who just moved to a new town would love to have a copy of that book as well! She and I both eat gluten and dairy free, and so many vegan cookbooks are all about the seitan. We would love to have one that is more easily adaptable for our diets!! :)

C.D. said...

That pasta DOES look amazing...I'd love to try it!

Thanks for the giveaway contest!

Anonymous said...

How very Oprahesque of you! ...W.W.O.D.

North of 17 said...

I bought your book about 2 months ago after deciding to give up animal products outright. I feel great and my energy levels have improved. I use at least 1 recipe a day and your book is full of notes - I wish it had more pictures though!. Your book is on my "present to give" list, and it is Canadian. My favourite so far - Almond & roasted red pepper hummus.

Cashew banana ice cream is creative alternative to ice cream, yummy too, but I found it had a funny gooey texture (my 2 yr old gobbled it up!). I cannot get soy ice cream in the tiny small town I live in - sob sob, and I love ice cream! Any other ideas for frozen creamy treats? Also, any tips for your icings? I follow the recipe to a tee and they come out more pudding-like than like fluffy traditional icings.

As for Oprah, it is enlightening to see her change her perception on food, not so much about caloric intake but about being aware of where your food comes from and how it gets there. I hope she has a positive experience, especially with the chefs she has cooking for her.

Keep up the good original Canadian work, eh!

Chris said...

Oprah's my homegirl because she's the only person I know who owns someone's soul (Dr. Phil). That pasta looks delicious...

And as a new vegetarian I would love a cookbook :)

megan said...

The sun-dried tomato pesto looks beyond amazing!

radioactivegan said...

Wow, that is so generous! I hope I can win these books; the hard part will be deciding who to give the extra copy to!

Anonymous said...

I am so glad to see you back!! My mother in law is coming for a 8 day stay at my house!!! She normally stays in a hotel so this will be very interesting. I have already stated that she will eat my food and I am not fixin' meat (ewwww) dishes while she is here. (hubby normally does the grilling) This looks like a great dish to make when she is here.
anyways as i ramble on.. Love the dish and I am proud that Oprah would even go on the air and say the word vegan. Some people are even scared to think of life without animal products. This is so great for the animal, planet, and vegans that get a strange stare
xo-heather

Anonymous said...

Go Oprah! Like so many others, I feel like now that Oprah's highlighting veganism, I won't have to justify my choices to my family as much. Pity that's what it takes to get them to open their minds a bit, but I'll take what I can get!

Anonymous said...

What a coup for the vegan community! I'm really excited about this considering Oprah's influence and power...and who knows? She may stick with it indefinitely!

Angela K. Marvin

RochelleK said...

I was so happy to read this. I don't watch Oprah, but am aware of the sheer influence she has! 21 days as a vegan... she'll start noticing the changes, won't be able to ignore them. She may just stick with it since she is decidedly a more enlightened person. *fingers crossed*
As for the cookbooks, I know the *perfect* person to give the second one to! My former sister-in-law is thinking of going vegan, and she's a mom with one child who has allergies--this would be perfect for her!

Michelle said...

I'm just drooling over these photos... I can't wait for that ice cream recipe!

Unknown said...

I love that Oprah made a plug for going vegan - I hope more people become conscious about their food choices (and start baking delicious vegan cookies, thanks to Dreena's recipes!!)

myrtle said...

Oh my, the pasta looks delicious!

I'd love to be added to the contest for a copy of ed&bv, and already have a list of folks to give the extra copy to! who to pick, who to pick...

Janet said...

Yay Oprah! On a different episode a few days ago Oprah had celeb chefs paired up with their biggest fans and one of them made a vegan sandwich! I'm so glad that the vegan word is spreading. PS, your banana cashew ice cream looks divine!!! xoxox

Bendicoot said...

That Banana ice cream looks fabulous!! I hope Oprah gets some good guests to talk about being Vegan, like you or Colleen Patrick-Goudreau or the Bob & Jenna(Vegan Freak).

Rural Vegan said...

I am not an Oprah fan (at all) and I just sent her a message congratulating and encouraging her. This could do wonders!

MM said...

i want that ice cream, it looks so delicious!

Anonymous said...

Yea! I actually tried to get the cookbook a couple of weeks ago but the store was out!:( When did you say the winner will be selected?

Meridith said...

*proceeds to do "The Secret" mind trick...visualizing a copy of ed&bv in my hands, opening it to the hummus chapter...*

darkfaeriecreations@gmail.com said...

I already have the book...but I have several folks in mind that I could surely pass them along to :)

The Oprah thing makes me nervous...I do hope she does not go on to say how hard it was afterwards....eek!

Anonymous said...

What I find troublesome about the whole Oprah thing is that if you look at her site she has- a chef cooking all the meals for her 21 days, the meals are very high end fancy stuff - use of truffle oil, uhh, let me check my pantry for that so that I can use a teaspoon in the recipe... not. The woman on her show doesn't cook either; it is her personal chef on loan to Oprah. I don't wanna sound like I am putting up roadblocks but it is all a little pretencious. Oprah is searching which is good but at her age it seems one should have found a rhythm - her rhythem seems frenetic and chaotic - Dr. Oz diet one day, loving turkey burgers another day, Get with the Program another month, now cleansing and detoxing... on and on.Overall a good thing but Dreena should have her cookbooks and recipes on the site- much more accessible.
Just some thoughts, maybe I am wrong- afternoon slump.

Unknown said...

I made this pasta dish on Sunday. It was wonderful!!! As is everything that I have made with recipes from ed&bv.

KleoPatra said...

Go Oprah! i met her once; i was covering a marathon (and half marathon) she was racing. She showed up with some of her cocker spaniels. Too funny. i'm not a big fan, don't watch her show (or any TV, for that matter) but i'll become one if she becomes vegan. She is a powerful woman, a powerful person, in this world and her influence is huge. i'm very excited about this! And i want that ice "cream" here!! Thanks for the contest... and for posting about it on Facebook!! ~Karen Pearlman, San Diego

Anonymous said...

Hi Dreena,

I would love to be entered in the cookbook giveaway!!

I also have a question. I see that arrowroot powder is used in many of your recipes. I want to make the Ooey-Gooey Caramel Chip Bars from TEV, but am wondering if cornstarch would work just as well as arrowroot?

Thank You!
Sarah L

Anonymous said...

That "ice cream" looks dangerous! I wish I had some right now!

Thanks for posting this contest on VeganFreaks.

Katherine McCracken

WomanSong said...

Im new to veganism. Was a vegetarian be that was before YOU wrote a book or two... We know oprah doesn't eat hambergers - mayber this will be her next step.
Peace.

Anonymous said...

I would love this book! From what I have seen on your blog so far, it has great recipes! Thanks for the opportunity.

Vicki's Vegan Vice said...

What an EXCITING post!! I had not heard about Oprah breathing the word vegan. Great news ~ thanks for spreading it. I love a bowl full of your banana cashew ice cream!

Anonymous said...

Wouldn't it be great if Oprah went vegan or at least vegetarian? That would almost be as good as the Pope going veg! So many people would be influenced to adopt a healthier, cruelty free diet.

Altaira Northe said...

hurray for cookbook giveaways!!
and positive exposure for veganism!

Mary Sue said...

Those recipes sound amazing!! I am officially entering, and hope I win!!

Meg said...

I would love to be entered in the cookbook giveaway! :) My 2nd copy would go to my sister. I love your cookbooks so much - I recommend them to everyone I know just getting into vegan cooking!

Lizzy said...

Awesome news about Oprah!

... and I'd love to be entered into the free books contest!

Animal-Friendly said...

I actually have that episode of Oprah recorded and I now must watch it right away! Her show is incredibly influential and having veganism talked about on it in such a positive light is really exciting.

This giveaway sounds like such fun! I think it's great to spread the word of veganism, and through food is one way that I find the most effective (because who doesn't love good food?).

aimee said...

yay for Dreena and yay for Oprah! If there is anyone to get people on the bandwagon it's Oprah (and Dreena!)!
Please enter me in the contest!
Aimee

Anonymous said...

Whee. The prospect of legions of O-bots becoming vegan, if only for a short while, is a VERY GOOD THING. Oprah -- you go, girl!

Oooooo -- pick me. Pick me! I have the perfect person with whom I'd share the extra cookbook. My friend "M" has a fused spine, and suffers from pervasive joint and muscle pain and other autoimmune symptoms. She can't keep any weight on, and eats inordinate amounts of butter, cream, and cheese because she doesn't believe "vegan" food can be sufficiently tasty -- or caloric --to help her gain weight. Heh. Silly child. One look at your recipes will cure her misconceptions...

Julie said...

I'm very optimistic about Oprah's 21-day stint as a vegan. This will be great!

I cannot wait to try that ice cream recipe. (Now if only my fiancé didn't only like unripe bananas!)

P.S. Thanks for the rooibos-juice ratio! I have some of this Red Rocks (almond and vanilla).

brittanydyan said...

What a great give away! I've been reading the vegan blogs for about two months. I recently went vegetarian but am worried about taking the next step as a full time student living in DC. A great cookbook would help. I'd give the other to my mom:)

Unknown said...

So great the someone with Oprah's influence is sharing the vegan love!
Thanks for the giveaway!

Maggie M. said...

I'd love to win!

That'd be awesome if Oprah goes vegan.

crazydogcoffee said...

Hi! long time reader, first time poster! I would LOVE to be entered into the contest! I have 5 kids I am new to veganism, (its been about a month for our family of 7) so we have no cookbooks as of yet. I just bought this week off of Amazon.com, your books, Vive, and Everyday Vegan. So the new one would be LOVELY! The others are due to come this week sometime. We love the way all of your recipes just are so easy and each one sounds so good! I have not missed dairy or meat or anything yet at all. I also love the way you have lots of vegan sweets for me and the kids. Thanks Dreena!

~Kris said...

Wow... just wow. Oprah... vegan... for 3 weeks - INSANE in such a AWESOME way!!

I've been all but dying to get this book - and man that "ice cream" looks excellent!

Jess said...

I'm intrigued by the ice cream...

Cake said...

She should start a vegetable of the month club.
Kristin

Anonymous said...

I think that is so exciting that veganism made it onto Oprah!!! I LOVE her show and she has definitely become more health conscious over the years. As you said, since so many people are influenced by her, this could do great things for veganism! P.S. I would looove to win a vegan cookbook to give to my mother, who is trying the "vegan thing" for a little while to see what it's all about. Being a somewhat recent convert myself (dairy/egg/animal free since Jan 08!) some new recipes would really help.

Great blog, keep up the wonderful posts!

Arwen said...

Ooo, that is exciting! Even if she only tries it for a week or so, that shows so many people that it's a positive option, and not just some scary fringe lunacy! *dances excitedly*

Elise said...

I'm not vegan but have been thinking about buying ed&bv based on the great things I've heard about it. Sure would be wonderful to win, and I already have someone in mind to whom I could give the second copy!

FatMom said...

Well, that's great about Oprah's show! I also have to agree that that pasta looks soooo fab! PLEASE enter me in the drawing! Great job on everything...love it!

I Am Gluten Free said...

I've been exploring a vegan way of life for the last six months - it has opened up enormous possibilities in my gluten free world! I'm already hooked because of all the ethical reasons and health benefits, but I also know I'm hooked because this morning I taught a children's music class and we sang about different foods we like to eat. When one of the kids mentioned chicken, I practically jumped out of my skin. I did not want to sing about chicken, but also didn't want to insult the child, plus I was also caught off guard, so we sang his idea anyway. But, the next time, we'll sing a vegan version! Who knew it would affect my teaching?

AG said...

Oh man. My ex-roommate is so close to being a vegan and she likes Oprah, so I'm definitely telling her about Oprah's vegan cleanse ... and I would love to give her a copy of such vegan cookbook deliciousness to give her that extra boost in the right direction.

Eco Mama said...

I agree it's very exciting that Oprah is considering veg*ism. Wouldn't it be great if everyone sent her an email encouraging this shift? I sent mine this morning and plan to send a couple more throughout the 21 days. It would be monumental if the benefits of veg*ism got publicity on Oprah's show (smaller carbon footprint, end of animal cruelty, superior health, less drainage on the healthcare system and more prevention, etc. etc.). If she becomes vegan, you know many many will follow. Thanks for bringing this up Dreena!

Anonymous said...

That is such good news! I always new Oprah was a smart woman. You should send her a copy of ED&BV!!

I do luuuv your banana icecream. It's way better than anything from the store. I still need to try that pesto.

You don't need to put me the drawing. :]

J.J. said...

This looks really really good! And so does that ice cream, mmm. Is that brown rice penne Tinkyada brand? If so, I love that. I use it all the time!

For contest purposes, I'm using the name J.J.!

Anonymous said...

Hi Dreena - that's great news about Oprah. She certainly does have much influence. And this contest of yours is a fabulous idea. Since I already own the wonderful ED&BV, should I win I will happily give the two books away to two lucky cooks :)

Anonymous said...

I have been wanting that pasta since you posted it a long time ago.

I would love a copy of your new book and I know a bunch of people who would like that second copy.

Thanks
Stephanie

Anonymous said...

Hello! I really enjoy your blog. This pasta and ice cream look so yummy. Go Oprah! I hope she decides to stay vegan after her 21-day cleanse.

Anonymous said...

My husband, a huge carnivore, has been eating vegan for the past month! I am so excited! The only thing that keeps him going are your desserts! He loves them! Thanks for holding the contest, what a sweet idea!

Dwan said...

The recipes here are absolutely to die for. Kudos on showing that living vegan is doable and delicious! :)

mrs. everything said...

If only it could be more than positive exposure! Dreena I need that book...I also need to make that pasta.

Michelle said...

Hey dreena, enter me, and if I win, I'll give away both copies ;)

Michelle bishop

Anonymous said...

I want pesto! I WANT PESTOOOOO!!!!

moi + toi PHOTOGRAPHIE said...

That is so true... Oprah is a "god" herself... if oprah says it.. people do.. lol

Anonymous said...

I've only just discovered veganism and am trying to gradually make a transition away from animal products... your blog is one I've really enjoyed, and the pesto sounds fantastic!

Unknown said...

thanks for the chance to win a cookbook!

Anonymous said...

yum!

kanya noel

Kati said...

Count me in! Good for Oprah for spreading the vegan word.

vijita said...

So so so inspiring to see Oprah exposing the masses to veganism, as admittedly sometimes it can be daunting to even explain to a large number of people what veganism means. Not that I don't try! I have a million friends I'd love to share ED&BV with, and thanks for exposing this story Dreena!

Kumudha said...

Oprah going vegan for some days is great! I'm sure thousands of people are trying amazing vegan fare, after seeing Oprah going vegan for 21 days.

Sadie J said...

I laughed when I heard Oprah ask 'What is left'. Thanks for giving away two books...If I win, I've got a friend who is definitely tinkering with being vegan.

Love your blog!

Jumbleberry Jam said...

Rock out! I'm not an Oprah fan, but she *might* be able to win me over with this one. And, I'd LOVE a copy of ED&BV!!

Jenni (aka Vegyogini) said...

Oh, how I LOVE that Banana Cashew Ice Cream! It's easily one of my favorite treats!

butro78 said...

I am so psyched about this Oprah news. It is so amazing, and I've been posting the info like crazy on all the vegan Facebook groups I'm a part of so that we vegans can feel strong :) It is not often that something like this happens in traditional media.

ikkinlala said...

I'm looking forward to the ice cream recipe (just in time for summer)!

rabi said...

oh, I know exactly who I want to give the book to! it's someone who loves oprah.

Jen said...

I am so excited about Oprah! I hope going vegan brings her as much joy and peace as it has brought to me!

Anonymous said...

Never mind the contest! Where's the recipe for Fit-uccine Alfredo?
LOL!

Come on now! Priorities, Dreena, priorities!

I keed! I keed!

Unknown said...

I sure hope that veganism doesn't turn into big Oprah *DRAMA*, complete with complaints about how hard it is to be a vegan. Hello Oprah, it's easy!

And of course, I would love to win. My omni mother could sure use a copy of your book.

Anonymous said...

WOW could you please add my name to the cookbook giveaway. You never know I might get lucky :)
Joanne D

Everyday Superhero said...

Just watched the show (I had recorded it) and the woman explained veganism very well. I love Oprah. I think she does a lot of good work but like many of us she goes from one thing to another. I think giving up meat products for 21 days is a great idea and I hope it raises some awareness.

On another note, I love the pasta with the tomato pesto. So yummy!

lao80 said...

Awesome, I just converted a friend. I would love to give her a book.

Anonymous said...

Hey Dreena,

I love your blog, and would love to win ED&BV.

Cheers!

Stephanie Martin

Everyday Superhero said...

I forgot to add that the idea of Kathy Freston sending her chef to Oprah very out of touch. Some may get the impression that veganism or vegetarianism is too hard. The menu plans on Oprah's site are not fast. But I'm still impressed that Oprah discusses this topic on her show and she's open to the idea of giving up animal products.

Anonymous said...

Yay Oprah! Lets hope she makes the permanent transition and sheds more, much needed, light on the importance of living vegan!!
Also, Yay Dreena! we love your cookbooks girl! :)

Vinelady said...

The pasta looks wonderful. I know what I am making this weekend.

Anonymous said...

Oh my goodness! That ice cream looks amazing!

I expect many will try being vegan because of Oprah - there was an overwhelming response years ago when she interviewed Howard Lyman.

Alison Cardinal said...

Can I just say that I made your maple banana loaf, and it was the best vegan bread recipe ever? I would love another cookbook and one to share!!

Anonymous said...

Love the looks of that pasta!

Maybe you should send a book to Oprah ... or Oprah's chef I guess ;-)

Anonymous said...

I was thrilled when I read about Oprah's detox diet. Just as you said, she has the ability to reach so many people. I would also be thrilled if I won ED&BV!

Domestic Dharma said...

It's wonderful that now soooooo many people have the words vegan and conscious eating on their tongues and aren't spitting it out, even if it's just because Oprah's doing it, she has the power to reach so many. She needs to have you on her show, so she can see and taste all of the vegan goodies that we eat.
Take care

Anonymous said...

I think only good can come from Oprah's (even if it's temporary) foray into veganism.

Mindy said...

I was also very excited to hear Oprah will try going vegan! I gave up meat a couple months ago, and this summer my goal is to stop eating most processed foods and eat mostly whole foods instead. (Of course, your cookbook would certainly help me do that!) :)

Reflection said...

I found your link on Oprah website. I look forward to reading and following your blog.. I become a vegetarian two years ago. I eventually started back eating fish and ground turkey in 07. But I've made up my mind to recommit to been a vegetarian who will gradually move to been a veagn.

Just finding your site will be of great help.

Anonymous said...

I don't have ED&BV yet, hence my post. Woo cookbook!

Rhonda Kauffman said...

Hmmm... if it's anything like Vive le Vegan, ED&BV will become my new bible. I am slowing turning everyone I know into "Scuffin" lovers (aka Mommy cakes)... I like the fact that Oprah is giving Vegan a good name. My pal's fiance got very upset when my pal tried to buy vegan butter and he said veganism was a cult or some other craziness. It wasn't until he saw something someone on Oprah talking about good vs bad fat that he equated vegan butter as healthy, not hippie-love cult food. Although I'm not vegan, I emply vegan ingredients and methods into my cooking for healthier, fresher alternatives. Every bit of good PR helps!!

Becca said...

I am a poor college student so I haven't been able to buy this cookbook yet but I've heard its fab!

Anonymous said...

Yay! I'd like to win.

Teresa said...

I don´t know why but Oprah is magic... so this news is great for the veg world! I think that you should write Oprah and get a vegan cooking spot on her show one day. Everything looks great as always!

Valerie H. said...

Exciting prospects! Please enter me in the drawing! :)

Anonymous said...

Please enter me in the contest! I would loooove to have your book. This is exciting about Oprah and her bringing some exposure to Veganism!

Aimee said...

Wow, I think you're right that times are changing.

pigsndreams said...

its awesome to see someone that has so much popularity doing something ethical without realizing it. maybe it will get others thinking or even oprah!!

Anonymous said...

I already own a copy, but I can think of two people I could pass the vegan love to.

I'm loving this book!

Em said...

I can't wait to try the recipe for your pasta. It looks so delicious! In fact, I quite regularly drool over the pictures that you've posted!

Unknown said...

cookbooks? lovely :)

shinyruby2 said...

yes.. indeed dreena has FAB pics ;)

And in response to: "Oprah expressed confusion about 'what's left to eat' on a vegan diet. Oh SO much Oprah... let us show you!" ... Dreena, AWESOME! Yes, so much!

Thanks for sharing x

Debbie said...

Dreena,

I would love to win your cookbooks. My daughter just finished reading "Skinny Bitch" and she is ready to give up meat, so I would really like to share one of your books with her.

Muse said...

times are indeed chanaging. while i know not everyone likes oprah, i think it's wonderful that she is able to use her show and influence to bring certain topics and lifestyles, including veganism, to the forefront of people's mind.

Sheree' said...

I really hope Oprah makes the change and that she openly shares postives about being vegan. By the way that pasta looks so good and I can't wait to try the ice cream.

LK Sisters said...

I was also so excited to hear about Oprah going vegan for 21 days! My grandma watches the show - I wonder if she watched the show and learned more about how great it is to being vegan!

The ice cream looks so delicious! I love frozen bananas and that sounds tasty.

LK said...

Wow, another giveaway...thanks!

Anyways, I was also thrilled about Oprah going vegan for a few days... I even sent a email comment on her website giving her support. If everyone went to her website and gave her suggestions or praise for trying veganism, I'm sure it will help motivate her!

Anonymous said...

I'm a new vegetarian on my way to vegan. I'd love this book... and I'm convincing my parents in NY to move away to the 'right' side (aka vegan lol)

Erin said...

I'd love to be entered, and ditto on the comments intrigued by your delicious looking ice cream!

Rio said...

your book has been on my list to buy. And to get two, I would give one to my diabetic friend whom I've been trying to teach to eat healthier!
Ruth

Anonymous said...

I read about that oprah tidbit on supervegan.com. Yay for vegan concepts moving into the general public!

and, yay for a cookbook giveaway. :)

Anonymous said...

Hey you! Isn't that incredible? I have been out of town for work but couldn't wait to get back to see if you had heard about this= of course you had!

She's blogging her 21 days here:

http://www2.oprah.com/foodhome/food/cleanse/blog/blog_2.jhtml

This will definitely change how people view vegan/vegeterianism.

Anonymous said...

I have been a carnivore all of my life and have not eaten meat for about a year now! I think I am ready to make the jump and I have tried a number of your recipes, which are delicious! A whole cookbook....that may just push me over the edge! Plus, I have plenty of friends who could definently use a vegan cookbook for some delicious influence! haha

shawna said...

yea for vegan cookbook giveaways!!!!

Quynh said...

This pasta dish recipe couldn't come at a better time, I have a tub of sundried tomatoes waiting to be eatten!

Robin_upto_nogood said...

Dreena,
Your books have infuenced my decision to become vegan incredibly! I have waivered back and forth with wanting this for myself. I have read a lot of literature that states if you are becoming vegan for health issues and not truly for animal rights that you will falter at some point. I believe in both. You have never pushed me all of the times I have written to you and struggled with this. My only other comcern was that I would be missing something that everyone else had. I guess missing fat and cholesteral would be good things to miss. As for flavor I am cooking so much from your cook books that others are asking for my recipes. I tell them they are yours. Giving 2 people that are so kind to me would be a great gift. Please consider me for your contest. As for me. I don't know at what time frame you can call yourself vegan. And if I eat something by mistake or by weakness will you come to Florida and correct me and possibly cook with me....he he he! I love ya Dreena and I am so happy I found your cookbooks and website.

Robin

Anonymous said...

Your mouthwatering pics are to die for! I'd love to help spread the word (while enjoying luscious vegan nummies myself)! --Rick

Anonymous said...

Seriously Oprah is amazing at effecting main stream culture. I had known about the Neti pot, but once it was featured on Oprah all the stores I went to were sold out of them. Hopefully this will help people understand veganism and vegetarianism. I really want some of the cashew banana icecream. IF I don't win the cookbook giveway I will need to buy it.

Anonymous said...

Dreena, my kids love pesto. Yours looks yummy!

Tam

Anonymous said...

Dear Dreena,

Everything happens for a reason. I lost my Aunt to cancer a few months ago. I am what the doctors say "depressed". I don't like labels and I decided that I need to make serious life changes. A big part of my life consisted of junk food, to ease my pain. My therapist recommended that I cut out red meat and drink 2 cups of green tea a day.

I read the book Skinny Bitch and was stunned to read the chapter on how animals are slaughtered. I went to the PETA website and could only watch a few seconds of videos.

I feel terrible, knowing that I contributed to the suffering of many animals.

I have decided to cut out meat completely. I am also considering going Vegan. This is a little overwhelming - any words of advice?

I would love to read your books.

Consider this my entry for your cookbook giveaway.

Stephanie
stefpiper@hotmail.com

Anonymous said...

I would love a chance to win! I don't own any of your cookbooks but I love your blog and I check it all the time. Thanks!

poker?nopokeHIM said...

maybe oprah will . change what "vegan" means to most people, and open doors! i can see it now... in a year, food at our co-ops and grocer's alike will have little stickers "oprah's food club." and if it means more people are eatin' vegan, i'm bout it bout it.

Samantha said...

Yum, that pasta looks delicious!
ED&BV is my favourite cookbook so I would love the chance to pass it on to others :-)

Anonymous said...

I am a fan of Oprah (and Dreena too, of course!) and am so excited about her becoming vegan for 21 days and hopefully more! It is such a logical step in her spiritual journey!

Anonymous said...

I love hearing good publicity for vegans! I hope Oprah has a positive response to her 21 days. I made the gluten free chocolate cake today and it's sitting in my fridge for our Memorial Day Picnic tomorrow.

Anonymous said...

I'm amazed that Oprah is doing this, but it's possible she's been on this path ever since she had Howard Lyman on and swore off beef. I think this will be great exposure, especially if she doesn't act like there's nothing good for her to eat.

osiim b'yad said...

Bravo - Oprah! I hope she has such a wonderful time over the next 3 weeks that she makes vegan or vegetarian food her staples!

Anonymous said...

I saw the Oprah show too and was impressed that she would take this challenge. I've checked out the comments on her website and it seems quite a few people are joining her in the challenge.

lab said...

I was so excited to read Oprah's blog about going vegan even if only for 21 days. Hope she can keep it up for longer. I also wanted to thank you for all the great exposure to vegan foods. I of course would love another of your cookbooks, I mostly changed to vegan eating for my kids. I know yours are important reasons for you also. Keep up the good blogging and recipes!

Dreena said...

Finally getting around to answering some of your questions here, guys. Thanks for all of your notes and for having such enthusiasm about eating vegan! Yeah!

Angela, love that story. You are a trooper showing others that vegan eats are a very good thing. You are making a difference one person at a time, I love it! Keep going!! :)

north of 17 - well, well done giving up animal products straight away. Give yourself some deserved pats on the back! I am touched that my books helped you with this big transition, and hope that you enjoy many more recipes. As for the icings, I tend to shy away from making traditional buttercream frostings, and I think that's what you are looking for. I just don't like using so much margarine/shortening/icing sugar in a frosting - and, since I love lots of frosting myself, I prefer them to be creamy and thick instead of uber-sugary. But, I get that many folks like the buttercream frostings, and so if you want some great recipes, I recommend you check out 'Vegan Cupcakes Take Over The World' which has plenty of frostings to choose from. Good luck!

Heather, good to hear from you too! Sounds like you've laid the 'ground rules' for the visit - best to you, and hopefully it will be smooth sailing.

Kleo, that's a great story - I would have been very excited to meet her!! I've posted the recipe now, so hope you love it. :)

Sarah L, absolutely you can sub the cornstarch for the arrowroot - most times they can be switched out one for the other no problem!

crazydogcoffee, welcome to my blog, and thanks for leaving a note. Welcome also to the world of delicious vegan foods! You must be busy with 5 kidlets, so I hope some of my recipes help you find easy dishes and snacks to keep your household going!!

reflection, thanks for stopping by and pls let us in the blogging world help you recommit to eating veg and moving to vegan. If I can help pls be in touch... just great news to know that people are being inspired to make changes.

Teresa, it's super nice to hear from you again, wondered if you were still around these days. Hope all is well with you - and thanks. :)

Robin, thank you for that. I am happy to have been able to help you in some fashion on your road to eating vegan. And... do you think we all haven't slipped up somewhere along the way - even if by mistake, or as part of adjustment? Make the broad sweeping changes - cutting out dairy/eggs/meat, and you'll find it all coming together before long. You are an example to others that making these changes is a great (and delicious) thing to do. Thanks again for your note, it means a lot.

Stephanie, sometimes we are presented with information from different places all at one time that pushes us to change. You are at that place, and I would love to help you if you are feeling overwhelmed. Don't focus on the 'little' things in the beginning (ie trace ingredients in foods). That will come as you are eating vegan and learning more and more. Instead, cut out the dairy, meat, and eggs and focus on the whole foods of veg, fruit, whole grains and whole grain products, legumes, nuts & seeds and soy. Try not to get overwhelmed by labels, but to simplify things start shopping at whole/health food stores or in the natural foods aisles of grocery stores. I have found that the products in the 'regular' aisles often have trace amounts of dairy, etc (things like cereals, breads, crackers, snack bars, etc). Pls e-mail me if I can help with specific questions, and don't stress, just enjoy the new foods and recipes!

Thanks all... I'll be posting new recipes soon.

xo Dreena

woodenapples said...

It's so funny, not a month ago I told my boyfriend how amazing it would be for Oprah to go vegan and now it's (sort of) happened. Imagine how easy it would be for everyone to go vegan with Oprah's chef cooking for you every day.

Anonymous said...

What a great blog! I stumbled upon it and am glad I did. As a vegan and registered dietitian, I'm always happy to read others' veg blogs as well as gather some new recipes! I invite you to check out my blog as well: dinedishdelish.blogspot.com Keep up the great work!
Janel

Ron said...

Google reader recommended your feed, possibly based on the other veggie feeds I now have. I am a converting omnivore. My wife went vegetarian, and it's no fun cooking for one, so all home cooking we have is vegetarian. And I am trying to do vegetarian when on my own. Biggest issue is same one Oprah mentioned, what to eat. When I was an omnivore I had a menu full of options when eating out. Now a restaurant may only have 1 or 2 vegetarian options and maybe another that can be converted on request. First glance was good enough for me to subscribe. Looking forwards to this.

Anonymous said...

oprah a vegan? OH PLEASE! it's just another one of her publicity phases about her and losing her fatass! why people still respect this out on control, control freak is beyond me.

give it up oprah, you're nothing, never have been (since the wjz days) and you're nothing now. and i guess you'll still be nothing years from now.

stop pretending you are in control because you're not.