Coconut Curry

Ingredients:

• 2 tbs coconut oil
• 1 tbs garam masala
• 1 tbs red chili flakes
• 2 tbs curry powder
• 1 tbs coriander
• 1 can coconut milk
• 2 tbs fish sauce
• 2 cups gluten free chicken broth
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 shallots, diced
• 2 cups carrots, diced
• 2 cups cauliflower, diced
• 1 large yam, peeled and diced
• 2 lbs chicken breast, diced

Directions:

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium high. Add the onion, shallots, dry spices, and saute until onion is translucent. Add the veggies and saute for 10 minutes. Add the sugar, fish sauce, coconut milk and chicken. Stir to combine, bring to a simmer and cover with a tight fitting lid. Lower the heat to medium low, and let it steam for at least a half hour. I let mine go for an hour. If you would like a thicker consistency, you can add a couple tablespoons of arrow root powder at the end.

Measurements

This morning Chris helped me take my new measurements. I had taken my measurements and photos back in June, when we first started eating “mostly Paleo”, and on October 20th, when we started the 30 day challenge. My measurements hadn’t changed much between June and October, so I will share my June vs. November numbers.

6/8/11

• Weight 146.3 lbs
• Hips    40.5″
• Chest    39.0″
• Waist    30.5″
• Thigh    22.5″
• Bicep    11.0″

11/27/11

• Weight 136.8 lbs
• Hips    38.75″
• Chest    35.5″
• Waist    28″
• Thigh    21.75″
• Bicep    10.5″

I would like to thank Chris for dragging me kicking and screaming into this new way of eating. I found out that I really do have an issue with gluten. I haven’t noticed a real issue with dairy, but I’m guessing that I would feel better without that as well. I hope that my blog can help motivate and inspire others to just try it for 30 days. I thought the 30 day challenge would be a waste of time, but it really made a huge difference in going 100% paleo for a month. As I previously mentioned, I had eaten “mostly paleo” for several months, and hadn’t noticed any difference. All of my major changes in body composition were within the 30 days of strict eating. My challenge ended a week ago, and even though I totally pigged out at Thanksgiving, I haven’t gained any of the weight back.

Ingredients and Products

This gallery contains 11 photos.

My friend Jeff suggested that I post photos of some of the ingredients/products that I like to use. So here goes!

Blackberry Pancakes

The basis for this recipe is Gluten Free Silver Dollar Pancakes, at elanaspantry.com.
Ingredients:

3 large eggs
3 tbs water
1 tbs vanilla extract
2 tbs honey
11/2 blanched almond flour
1/4 tsp sea salt
1/4 tsp baking soda
1 cup blackberries
Coconut oil for cooking

Directions:
In a large bowl whisk together the eggs, vanilla, water and honey. Add the remaining ingredients and let rest for at least 10 minutes.
Heat a large skillet over medium. Add a tablespoon of coconut oil, coating the pan evenly. Use a 1/4 cup measuring cup to pour out the pancake batter. These can burn easily and are difficult to turn. Take your time and turn the heat down if necessary.
You can use any type of berry that you have on hand. I like topping with honey. I would guess that coconut flake would taste great too.

Chris has a new blog

Chris has decided to share some of his workouts. I think he is very talented at programming fitness schedules. Give him a peek if you get the chance. www.gymc2.com

Steelhead

Had a great wod with Chris tonight. It’s amazing how difficult 5 minutes can be! Quick and easy meal. Frozen steelhead, steamed green beans, and spinach salad with bacon and craisins. Dessert was some dark chocolate and a glass of merlot. Yum!

End of my 30 day challenge

Yesterday was the last day of my challenge. I feel terrific! I plan on doing the challenge twice a year. I will post my results this weekend, and perhaps a picture as well. I lost nine pounds, and the only big change in my “mostly paleo” diet was to eliminate dairy and wine for the month.