So I've been thinking about a comment Kate wrote on one of my posts about a week or so ago, where she said she doesn't buy processed food with more than one ingredient. One ingredient. Does that even qualify as processed? How does she do this?
I went to Whole Foods and got my usual fruits and veggies and bulk grains (millet, quinoa, amaranth, bulgar) but then, as I was about to swing down the frozen aisle for some veggie burgers, I said, "No. Only simple, real food." I can always throw some beans and oats and other things into a food processor and make my own veggie burgers, can't I? It's time to break the processed food habit, no matter how small it may be for me.
And so, it was with great joy that I fell upon this book the other day (at Ten Thousand Villages, no less). Turns out the Mennonites have asked each Mennonite household to reduce overconsumption in order to help the world's poor by eating and spending 10% less. And to help them do this, this cookbook, More-with-Less: Recipes and Suggestions by Mennonites on how to eat better and consume less of the world's limited food resources, gives short recipes (the shortest I've ever seen) that reflect basic sustenance habits from cultures throughout the world.
Additionally, the book contains some of the best articles I've read on this subject, about world shortages, overspending, overeating and overcomplicating. Ultimately, the Mennonites believe that change is an act of faith. And as someone who borrows freely from many religions and spiritual practices, I'm adding that one to my repertoire. I love that. Change is an act of faith. For me, that means believing that actions I take can make a difference, even if I don't know how.
As we embark on our final week of increasing darkness to the longest night of the year (the Winter Solstice next Saturday), I finally feel I have achieved something close to balance during a time of rampant commercialism. And I begin now to look forward to the New Year, and the lengthening of the days, and the opening of my heart to let more light in. In a way more simple. And more real.
Now, that's a short recipe that works for me.
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3 comments:
I have to find that book! Thanks for the heads up!
Val
I requested the book from the library, I look forward to reading it. We buy almost no processed foods, organic or otherwise anymore. But I need more ideas for things to cook.
Oh and congrats on the rain! I think you need a couple of rain barrels for when it does rain. I've got 2. And I love your things you did this year on the sidebar. I'm going to steal the idea for a post.
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