I have at least one, sometimes even two, smoothies per day and I love them! It is the most effective way to get nutrition into the body without taxing it during the assimilation. Being the food is in liquid state, the body doesn't have to break down solids. And, actually having only smoothies one day a week is a gift to the digestive system. Smoothies are great for detoxing the body as well as part of a healing process for ailments. For the purpose of the review we are asked to test three recipes. Of course, I looked for combinations I've never used before. The first one I made was Corn Chowder. Yes, corn chowder. Keep in mind that smoothies don't necessarily have to be made with raw fruit. The chowder recipe calls for the normal ingredients: broth, corn kernels, onion, sage, thyme, and milkcream. (I used coconut milk instead.) After cooking, this combination is blended and can be served hot or cold. The combination of sage and thyme gave a great flavor. The second recipe I tested was Almond Date. It is suggested to use soy or almond milk but I used coconut milk and added dates, almonds, cream cheese, banana, cinnamon and nutmeg. The end result was delicious!The third recipe I tested was Ice Green Goddess. The combination of coconut milk, lime juice, kiwi fruit, mint leaves and 2 scoops of agave sweetened vanilla coconut ice cream made the best ever combination. It's one of those that you say wow after the first sip. Aside from recipes for smoothies, The Smoothies Bible, Second Edition has a huge section on body systems and health conditions that smoothies are indicated for. Pat Crocker covers the best foods for blending and their actions, uses, how to buystore, and corresponding recipes. As well, Crocker has a section on herbs -- their use, properties, and healing powers. This one of the best smoothie books I've ever seen and it is certainly a keeper. I would honestly say that anyone just venturing into the world of smoothies for health reasons, The Smoothie Bible, Second Edition is your first option.
- Irene Watson Reader Views 2011 02 14
