#305: How to be a Scrappy Plant-Based Cook with Carleigh Bodrug
“When people are following recipes, they get really nervous to interchange things and again, going back to our first point, with plants, the pressure's off. You can, you really, if you screw it up, you can fix it. It's supposed to be fun!” — Carleigh Bodrug
Join me as I welcome the incredible Carleigh Bodrug, CEO and founder of PlantYou, to discuss her journey in crafting delectable, zero-waste plant-based recipes that can transform how we approach our kitchen habits. Listen in as Carleigh introduces her latest work, "Scrappy Cooking," a cookbook designed to make a tangible impact on our planet by offering over 140 plant-based recipes that are as kind to your wallet as they are to the environment. We tackle the overwhelming statistics of food waste and discuss starting small with sustainable changes that can lead to a significant difference in our ecological footprint.
Scrappy Cooking isn't just a way to prepare food but a philosophy that encourages boldness, fun, and sustainability. Carleigh shares practical tips for keeping produce fresh and getting the most out of your ingredients, as well as her favorite scrappy hacks. She inspires us to look at our pantry staples with a new lens of creativity, ensuring that nothing goes to waste. Reflecting on our own journeys towards reducing waste, we touch on the challenges and the gratifying moments that come with mindful consumption.
Carleigh Bodrug is the CEO and founder of PlantYou, a visionary advocate for sustainable and eco-friendly living, particularly in the realm of plant-based cooking. She is an esteemed self-taught plant-based chef and a best-selling author, recognized for her innovative approach to zero-waste cooking. Carleigh's latest literary contribution is her cookbook titled "Scrappy Cooking," which features over 140 plant-based, zero-waste recipes designed to not only tantalize the taste buds but also to reduce food waste and its environmental impact. Through her work, Carleigh aims to inspire others to embrace a sustainable lifestyle that benefits their health, wallet, and the planet. Her philosophy underscores the importance of using every bit of produce, transforming kitchen scraps into gourmet meals, and promoting the practice of 'Scrappy Cooking' as a fun, creative, and environmentally responsible endeavor.
Discussion points:
The philosophy of plant-based, scrappy cooking with Carleigh Bodrug
Carleigh's "Scrappy Cooking" book tackles food waste reduction
Bold, fun, and sustainable plant-based recipes
Tips for keeping produce fresh and understanding expiration dates
What Carleigh wishes people knew
Scrappy uses for pickle juice, aquafaba, and broccoli stems
Resourcefulness and environmental impact of zero-waste cooking discussed
Scrappy pesto and nutrient-rich broths from kitchen scraps
Balancing success with personal joy and environmental responsibility
Reminder of each person's unique purpose in the world
Balancing being present with social media
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