You wanna know about tofu?

This entry is about tofu, but I would like to say that I lost an additional inch around the waist!! Also, I am no longer freaking out about my weight. I guess I felt like I was under the gun having gained so much weight so quickly. My fluctuations are definitely a source of emotional stress. Now that I have calmed down, I am at peace because I know I am doing something about my health.

But this is about tofu...

A reader asked about eating tofu for the first time...

I am definitely not an expert on cooking tofu. My knowledge is a result of vegetarian ex boyfriends and a lot of experimenting, lol.

I love tofu for the same reason that I love eggplant: although it has a distinctive taste, and it soaks up the flavor of any seasoning or sauce you may add. If you haven't tried tofu, I suggest going to a reputable restaurant and trying it out. The Vegetable Garden in Rockville, MD has some great entrees.

If you insist on cooking, know that there are several different consistencies from liquid to extra firm. Liquid tofu is often used for smoothies and baking. If you want a meat replacement, go for extra firm.

I have no idea why tofu is kept in water. However, I do know that the key to cooking tofu is to make sure you dry it out properly. Whether you use cheesecloth or paper towels, it is a long and tedious process that pays off in the end. The tofu has to be dry for the marinade to have an affect. Marinate the tofu as long as you can to make it flavorful.After that you can cook it like any other meat: grill, fry, bake, etc., Another tip would be to

Tofu is great because it is low calorie, high protein, cheap, and tasty! There are so many different kinds of meat substitutes, so if you don't like tofu, options are still available. Hope that helps!

Update

I know it's been a while...

Progress - The school year has begun, and thus the whirlwind of work and worry. Due to my structured days, I have managed to eat healthy on a (mostly) consistent basis. The only problem is trying to overcome the desire to hit up a happy hour once the day is done. Bar food and likka are my weaknesses.

I have been walking consistently. Most days I wake up early and get in a 20 minue brisk walk on my treadmill. That wakes me up and at least I have SOME sort of exercise if I am dog tired by the end of the day. Ideally, I would like to walk in the morning and evening, but I am working on it. I am thankful that my job is an active one, I logged 13k on my pedometer one day at work alone.

I also cooked this week, something I used to enjoy but gave up to due supposed lack of time. I cooked Risotto Zuchinni Rice Cakes with Tomato Compote and Red Curry Tofu with Stoplight Peppers and Broccoli and Coconut Scallion Rice. Mmmmm! Email me for the recipes.

This morning I walked for about an hour and 15 minutes (4 miles), and I feel great. I snuck in a weighing on the scale, and I have not lost any weight, but I haven't gained any weight. This week, my goal is to fit in at least one strength training session. Good luck to the rest of you!

Quotes for Every Occasion - Oprah Style!

All quotes are from O Magazine.

Choices and Change
I believe the choice to be excellent begins with aligning your thoughts and words with the intention to require more from yourself.

December 2003

Focusing on Your Goals

Energy is the essence of life. Every day you decide how you're going to use it by knowing what you want and what it takes to reach that goal, and by maintaining focus.

July 2003

Facing Challenges

Challenges are gifts that force us to search for a new center of gravity. Don't fight them. Just find a different way to stand.

October 2002

Failure as Motivation
Do the one thing you think you cannot do. Fail at it. Try again. Do better the second time. The only people who never tumble are those who never mount the high wire. This is your moment. Own it.

September 2003