New YA book

Teenage Waistland by Lynn Biederman and Lisa Pazer is a realistic fiction novel dealing with a group of very overweight teens who participate in a study where they have surgery to help with weight loss.  The story is told from several different teens point of view, and I found it very interesting.

Getting my family to eat vegetables is a real challenge in my house.  I am always on the lookout for new ways to cook them.  I saw this recipe online and decided to give it a try.  It was yummy, especially if you like things spicy!  But of course, the heat can be adjusted, or left out altogether, according to your tastes.

Bang Bang Cauliflower

Shopping List (Serves 2-4 as an appetizer)
1/2 cup Panko bread crumbs
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1/2 cup egg whites
1 head cauliflower
Salt & pepper
1 tablespoon garlic powder
Green onion
1/4 cup coconut oil

Sauce
1/4 cup lite mayo
1/4 cup Franks Red Hot Sweet Chili Sauce or Siracha (depends on how hot you can handle it)
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 tablespoons sugar

1. Slice your cauliflower florets. Mix salt, pepper and garlic powder into your Panko breadcrumbs in a shallow dish.

2. Set separate bowls aside with egg whites and cornstarch. Dip your florets one by one into the cornstarch, and shake off excess. Then dip into egg whites, and then coat with Panko mixture.

3. After coating all of your florets, warm up your coconut oil in a large frying pan and place all florets in hot oil. Turn with tongs making sure all sides are browned. Set on top of paper towels to remove excess oil. Top with more salt.

4. In a small bowl mix all of your sauce ingredients. Coat your breaded and pan fried florets with sauce, top with sprinkles of green onion and serve right away.