Native to the Middle East, the pomegranate fruit has been cultivated since ancient times. With an exotic and slightly tart flavor, pomegranate seeds can be used in a variety of dishes. Packed with vitamin C, the pomegranate is the rock star of antioxidants, as it’s been found to protect against cancer and Alzheimer’s Disease. Try this Middle Eastern Eggplant & Pomegranate Braise, better known as Fesenjan. Serve it up with rice, flat bread, and a fresh green salad for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

2 large eggplants
6 Tbs. olive oil
1 onion, peeled and sliced
2 cloves garlic, peeled and chopped
2 tsp. cumin powder
1/4 tsp. cinnamon powder
2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. black pepper
1/2 tsp. turmeric powder
1 tsp. crushed red pepper
1 cup parsley, chopped
2 cups cilantro, chopped
1/2 cup mint, chopped
2 cups walnuts, toasted
3 cups pomegranate juice
1 Tbs. brown sugar

For garnish
1 cup cilantro, fresh - or basil or parsley
1 cup pomegranate seeds, about 2 pomegranates

Directions:

1. Cut eggplants into pieces and soak in a container of water with 2 Tbs. salt for 20 minutes, rinse thoroughly, then squeeze the water out with a towel.
2. Heat 4 Tbs. oil in deep skillet over medium heat. Add eggplant and sauté on all sides about 15 minutes or until golden. Remove eggplant from skillet, drain on paper towel, set aside.
3. Add remaining oil to skillet and heat over medium heat, then add onion and sauté until golden brown (10-14 minutes). Add garlic for last few minutes of browning onions and continue cooking. Add cumin, cinnamon, salt, pepper, turmeric, red pepper, parsley, cilantro and mint and sauté for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Grind walnuts in food processor until very fine. Combine walnuts with pomegranate and sugar, and stir until sauce is smooth.
5. Pour sauce into skillet. Return eggplant and seasoning to skillet, reduce heat to low, cover and simmer mixture for 30 minutes or until the eggplant is tender, stirring occasionally.
6. Add more brown sugar to taste. Garnish with herb leaves and pomegranate seeds.

Find this and other great veg recipes at www.ThePPK.com!

Looking for a getaway with your sweetheart? Sweet Onion Inn offers comfortable and cozy lodging in the mountains of Vermont. Super-rated delicious vegan breakfast and dinner are served with care, and you can also bring your dog friend! While you’re there, you can have cooking classes and a consultation with certified vegan nutritionist, Ron, owner and who heads up the kitchen. You can also enjoy other activities in the area like skiing or massage.

Thinking about someone? Give the perfect gift certificate - treat your family and friends to an unforgettable weekend in the mountains!

For reservation and more information, visit www.SweetOnionInn.com!

Pomegranate juice contains more antioxidants than red wine, concord grape, blueberry and orange juices, according to a new study. The study, published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry, examined the nutrient content and antioxidant activity in a variety of beverages. Pomegranate juice ranked higher than other beverages that have recently been touted as containing superior levels of antioxidants such as açai juice and white and green teas.

According to the researchers, pomegranate juice is the leader in the healthy beverage category by demonstrating the most complete free radical scavenging activity, greater protection of low-density lipoprotein - cholesterol from oxidation - and the highest polyphenol content compared to red wine and several juices. The antioxidant potency composite index of pomegranate juice was at least 20% greater than any other beverage included in the study.

To read the full article, click here!

The Boston Vegan Association (BVA) is a community-based organization created to bring together and support local vegans, as well as expand veganism throughout the Boston area. Their fun meetings and educational events provide community information and support for longtime vegans and newcomers alike. BVA continually works to increase vegan options at retail stores, restaurants and schools. Some of their activities include peaking to students about animal concerns; writing letters to educate the media, public and government about animal issues and veganism; leafleting on college campuses and high traffic public areas; hosting vegan food tastings, feed-ins and vegan cooking and nutrition classes.

With a very active calendar, BVA hosts and participates in a variety of events and welcomes everyone to join in. Their next outreach event is on March 20th in honor of The Great American Meatout. They’ll educate others about the benefits of a plant-based diet by giving away 100 sack lunches containing Tofurky sandwiches and other vegan treats.

Want to do something for Meatout in your area? Distribute colorful handouts to friends, family, and neighbors! Click here to request some today.

Find out what is happening in Boston, visit www.BostonVegan.org!

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