Thanksgiving Day 2023 | Stuffed Bell Peppers | Quinoa & Basmati Rice Pilaf | Coconut Chia Seed Pudding

Thanksgiving is a cherished holiday celebrated primarily in the United States and Canada, though other countries have similar harvest festivals. This holiday has deep historical roots and is a time for people to come together with friends and family to give thanks for the bountiful harvest and blessings of the past year.

At the heart of Thanksgiving is a festive feast featuring a roasted turkey as the centerpiece, accompanied by an array of traditional side dishes such as stuffing, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie. The meal symbolizes gratitude for the abundance of food that sustains us throughout the year. Families often gather around the dinner table, offering thanks and reflecting on the things they are grateful for. Thanksgiving is also marked by parades, football games, and charitable activities, making it a day of community and shared goodwill.

Historically, Thanksgiving has its roots in the early 17th century when Pilgrims in Plymouth, Massachusetts, joined Native Americans in celebrating a successful harvest. It later became a national holiday in the United States thanks to President Abraham Lincoln's proclamation in 1863. Thanksgiving is a time not only to appreciate the material blessings but also to recognize the importance of family, togetherness, and the spirit of giving thanks. It is a day that reminds us to express gratitude for the many blessings in our lives and to share the warmth of companionship with loved ones.

Make this Thanksgiving Day more special by cooking super interesting recipes for your near and dear ones.

Ingredients-

• Pride of India- White Basmati Rice 
• Pride of India- Green Mung Lentils 
• Pride of India- Coconut Flour 
• Pride of India- Natural Red Royal Quinoa 
• Pride of India- Whole White Chia Seeds 
• Pride Of India - Pure Himalayan Pink Salt 

Recipes

1. Stuffed Bell Peppers with Basmati Rice & Lentils

Instructions-

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Cut the tops off 4 bell peppers and remove the seeds and membranes. Set aside.
• In a large bowl, combine the cooked 1 cup white basmati rice, ½ cup green lentils, ½ cup diced tomatoes, ½ cup diced onions, ½ tsp minced garlic, ½ tsp cumin powder, paprika, pink salt, and pepper.
• Stuff each bell pepper with the rice and lentil mixture.
• In a separate bowl, combine ¼ cup coconut flour, 2 tbsp chia seeds, and ½ cup vegetable broth to make a topping. Spoon the topping over the stuffed bell peppers.
• Place the stuffed bell peppers in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
• Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

2. Quinoa & Basmati Rice Pilaf

Instructions-

• Rinse 1/2 cup quinoa and 1/2 cup white basmati rice under cold water.
• In a saucepan, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the 1/4 cup chopped onions, 1/4 cup celery, and 1/4 cup carrots. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.
• Add 1/2 cup quinoa and 1/2 cup white basmati rice to the saucepan and stir for a couple of minutes.
• Pour in 1 cup vegetable broth, pink salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed, and the grains are cooked.
• Remove from heat and stir in 2 tbsp chia seeds.

3. Coconut Chia Seed Pudding

Instructions-

• In a bowl, combine 1/4 cup chia seeds, 1 cup coconut milk, 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup, and 1/2 tsp vanilla extract.
• Mix well and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight, to allow the chia seeds to absorb the liquid and thicken.
• Serve in individual cups or bowls, topped with fresh berries.

4. Coconut & Chia Seed Energy Bites

Instructions-

• Place 1 cup pitted dates, 1/2 cup shredded coconut, 1/4 cup chia seeds, 1/4 cup coconut flour, 1/4 cup rolled oats, 2 tbsp coconut oil, 1 tsp vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a food processor.
• Process until the mixture forms a sticky dough.
• Roll the dough into small bite-sized balls.
• Refrigerate for about 30 minutes before serving.