The (Truly) Starving Artists’ Vegan Cookbook – Pt. 4

Simple Sandwiches are a staple in the Starving Artists’ diet. As an artist, I enjoy food that looks good as well as tastes good. Healthy food is a bigger bonus, however, and I encourage you to keep your protein intake as the main consideration. Without protein you can’t keep your energy levels up. Without energy you can’t keep creating in the pace you’d like. Never let a small grocery budget detract from your overall health. Keep a modicum of respect for your well being.

Simple White Bean Spread is tasty but cheap. This is a meal that can be prepared in only a few minutes and requires few ingredients. In our last installment, I instructed you how to soak and prepare legumes for consumption (cheaper than eating the canned type), so refer to TSAVC Part 3 if you need a rehash.

Simple White Bean Spread on Toast

1 cup white (Northern) beans, soaked and softened
A few Tablespoons of water, enough to blend beans
1 T minced garlic, or garlic powder
Salt to taste
Southwestern or Cajun seasoning to taste (optional)
Several strips roasted red pepper
Several slices of bread, any kind

In blender or food processor, mix beans, water, garlic, salt and seasonings (opt.)
Cut bread into quarters and toast.
Spread bean mixture over toast and top with strip of roasted red pepper.

HINTS: Buy beans and seasonings in bulk at health food stores. Keep heels from your loaves in the freezer and use for toast.

How to Roast Red Peppers at Home:

Set oven 450˚- 500˚ F on broil. Cut peppers in half and clean out seeds and innards. Place on baking sheet skin side up and broil 7 to 20 minutes (longer cooking time allows pepper’s sugars to carmelize and makes them naturally sweeter). Skin should be brownish-black and blistered.

Remove from oven, and let cool approximately 20 minutes. If you’d like, you may peel the skin off at this point. Slice and place in Ziploc bag or tight container and place in fridge.

Coming up in The (Truly) Starving Artists’ Vegan Cookbook – Part 5: Deviously Delicious French Toast!