#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 

  • Please subscribe, and reach out to us with your comments, questions, and feedback

Did you LOVE this special episode of I AM HUMAN? PLEASE share it with someone who you think could benefit from this information!

Looking for Ad-Free listening? Subscribe today!

 

Carleigh Bodrug

CEO and Founder of PlantYou

Carleigh Bodrug is the CEO and Founder of PlantYou, a New York Times Bestselling cookbook author and self-taught plant-based chef, famous for her simple take on low-waste and vegan recipes. She’s back with her highly anticipated second cookbook- Scrappy Cooking: 140 + Plant-Based Zero-Waste Recipes That Are Good For You, Your Wallet, and the Planet (4/4/234, Hachette Go), launching in April to align with Earth Month.

The concept for Scrappy Cooking was born from a shocking statistic. The US throws away more food than any other country in the world - over 80 billion pounds per year, with each American throwing out an estimated 30% of the food they purchase. This inspired Carleigh to start a series on social media by the same name, which shows viewers how to transform commonly wasted foods into delicious recipes. The mission of the cookbook is to help readers save money, reduce food waste and eat healthier than they ever have before. Boasting over seven million followers between her social channels, Carleigh has gripped social media with her simple and delicious low-waste recipes that make plants the star of the show.

The information on this blog, website and podcast is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to replace careful evaluation and treatment. If you have concerns about your or your child’s eating, nutrition or growth, consult a doctor.