Australia to Italy one way

My name is Jill and I have been living in Italy for 10 years. After working as a chef/pastrychef in various Sydney hotels and restaurants for many years my tasebuds brought me to Italy. Here I fell in love with a tall, dark and handsome Italian. Even after 10 years I still stuggle with the language, the culture and crossing the roads safely. I have had more than my share of embarrassing moments, plenty of fun times, eaten in some wonderful places, have given birth in a provincial Italian hospital (not advisable) and have seen many unique places. I have a blog but due to technophobia (really, I am an an embarrassment to my generation) I have never used it. I am however enthusiastic to share some of my experiences, advice and recipes.

A Raw Deal

On any given day, over the past twenty-five plus years, I have craved chocolate in some form. Nothing unusual for me. I'll take it as I can get it. However, I am gradually shifting toward a raw food diet and have found the raw treats I make even better than the old sugary confections of years past. Who woulda thunk?

With fresh, raw almonds, raw cocoa, and organic dates, the beginnings of a delectable treat begin; and oh so simply. I merely toss all into my food processor (which has been working out more than me lately), reach in with my hands, and press it into a tight crust with my palm into a shallow bowl or pie plate.

Next up - fresh fruit. I typically take a banana and whatever fresh fruits I have in the house; often blueberries or strawberries. I reserve some of the berries, and once, again, all go into my trusty food processor (I don't bother to rinse out the crust, as what little bit remains, adds a tiny dash of texture to the soon-to-be pie.) Once mixed, I gently stir in chopped or whole berries, depending on their size) into the mix and pour it over the crust.

After as little as an hour in the fridge - sometimes it does not even make it to the fridge - it is ready to eat. With a soothing cup of green tea, it is a little taste of heaven. And all during the process, other than a bit of raw cocoa, I've not thought about, nor missed, my usual chocolate at all.

If you're thinking of switching to a raw - or mostly raw - diet, starting with an occasional dessert of fresh fruits and nuts can be an encouraging, delicious, and healthy way to start! Bon appetite!

All about me

I am a newbie blogger checking out this course. The hope is that I can start a food blog that someone maybe remotely interested. I love cooking and trying out new recipes; I also like to share those recipes, so a blog seems the perfect place to do this.

It Happens to Be

Yes, I believe everything happens for a reason. I don't believe in fate, happenstance or coincidence. I believe that each person was created for a specific purpose. I believe that the better you treat people the better you will be treated. I believe in unconditional love. I believe in giving as much as you can. I believe in helping others, especially when you don't really want to. I believe that love is a feeling not a word. I believe that "True" faith can get you through anything. I love my family - especially being a mom, learning, gardening, inspiring and helping others and my biggest vice - dining out! My love of food is borderline "addict". I'm one of those who lives to eat, not vice versa. I can be lured by just a sliver of cheesecake or a teaspoon of creme brulee.

Renee

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