Last week, we shared the end of Jana and her family's adventures cooking through Happy Herbivore Abroad . She cooked every single recipe in the book and it brought the family together — they got excited about the "recipe of the day" and love plant-based cooking (and eating!). Today, we are sharing the beginning of a new challenge! Jana's 11-year-old son, Caleb (AKA Kitchen Shadow), decided he wanted in on the fun and began cooking his way through Everyday Happy Herbivore . Enjoy his story and his favorites from the first 50 recipes!
I’m Caleb Sooter, better known as the Kitchen Shadow . I’m 11 years old, and love archery, Tae Kwon Do, climbing, and all things outdoors. My Mom, Jana Sooter , is a master chef/cook, amazing gardener, and cool mom. My Dad, Shane Sooter, is a filmmaking, rock climbing, epic dad. I have the best parents anyone could ever have.
I’ve been vegan for almost a year. I became vegan when my mom showed me Forks Over Knives™ almost a year ago. When I saw it, I was a bit skeptical about veganism. But, after a while, I decided to stick with the diet, and now I have more energy, (though I still sleep ‘til 10 in the morning almost every day) am more active, and am more sensitive about foods.
My mom began making recipes out of Happy Herbivore Abroad™ , and soon I wanted to join the fun. I began to make recipes out of Everyday Happy Herbivore™ . So far, I’m at more than 65 recipes! Below are my top 11 favorite out of my first 50.
Fruit Crisp (page 46): Made weekly in our house.
Tortuga Rum Cake (page 251): Captain Jack would be proud.
Skillet Refried Beans (page 179): A staple at our house now. (Notice my bro photobombing me in the background (Bunny Ears!))
Single Blueberry Muffin (page 56): I wonder if it's dating...
Mexican Scramble (page 27): Magic in a skillet.
SXM Strudel (page 242): Apple pie in a tortilla!
Pinquito Beans (page 181): This what baked beans are in Mexico.
Grilled Cheeze (page 78): I LOVE THIS THING! Get me like... 5 more please.
Pasta with Braised Veg (page 210): I made this with asparagus from our garden beds!
Roasted Carrots (page 221): My favorite carrot dish.
Masala Burgers (page 83): My all time favorite burger recipe in this book.
This has been a fun experience, cooking and knowing my way around a kitchen. I might just open a food truck!
Have a great day! I’ll get back with you when I hit 100 Everyday Happy Herbivore Recipes!
— Caleb "The Kitchen Shadow"
Follow me on Twitter! I’m @kitchenshadow !