Our exploration of the chakras continues with a discussion of a topic very dear to me — food!

Food is one of the basic needs for our survival. Eating foods that taste good, look good, and give us adequate nutrition can bring balance into our lives.

Foods associated with the root chakra traditionally have included meats and other protein. More recently, foods associated with the root chakra have come to include red fruits and vegetables, like watermelon, strawberries, tomatoes and peppers; and root vegetables, like beets and radishes.

Scent is the sense associated with the muladhara, or root chakra. Aromatic herbs and spices that help bring it into balance include ginger, cinnamon, cloves, black pepper, and garlic.

Here are some fun foods to try.

Tomato Mozzarella Salad

This time of year is great for making a fresh salad from garden-ripened tomatoes, basil and fresh mozzarella. Simply combine all three and toss with a little salt and pepper, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar for a beautiful and tasty salad.

Molasses Spice Cookies

This is a recipe that I got from my former sister-in-law. These delightfully chewy cookies have become a staple during the Christmas season.

In a large bowl, combine:

 3/4 c. shortening

1/4 c. molasses

1 c. sugar

1 egg

In a second bowl, whisk together:

2 c. flour

2 t. baking soda

1/2 t. salt

2 t. cinnamon

1 t. ground ginger

Combine dry ingredients with shortening using an electric mixer (it helps to use a stand mixer if you have one). Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours or overnight.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Roll dough into balls. Roll the dough in sugar to cover. Bake on an ungreased cookie sheet for 10 to 12 minutes. They will look slightly overdone.

Italian Potato and Kale Frittata

The following is a recipe I adapted from Weight Watchers TurnAround Program Cookbook. People that know me well can verify that I often “adapt” or “modify” recipes as my mood strikes. This recipe combines protein, aromatic herbs and spices, and red root vegetables.

Preheat over to 375 degrees. In medium bowl combine:

2 large eggs

4 egg whites

1/2 t. salt

1/4 t. ground pepper

2 T. water

In a medium oven-proof skillet, heat 1 t. olive oil.

Add to the skillet:

1 1/2 c. blanched kale

3 green onions, sliced

1 t. dried thyme

1 t. dried basil

Cook for about 5 minutes and stir in 2 small red potatoes that have been slightly cooked and thinly sliced.

Add the egg mixture to the skillet. If necessary, evenly distribute the vegetables, without stirring; cook until eggs are almost set (about 5 to 6 minutes). Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake until the eggs are completely set in the center (5 to 6 minutes). Serve warm. Servings: 4

Bon appetit!

Debra