Vegan Runner's Garlic Tofu Mousse
I'm naturally a long distance/endurance athlete. A 3 mile run doesn't do it for me. A 10 mile bike ride is simply not enough.
At some point in my long runs I hit a wall and even with rest I struggled to recover. I pored over articles on the Internet about exercise, running and vegan nutrition.
I learned about the importance of vitamin d. I learned about warm ups and proper clothing selection.
As plant based people, we already understand the need to supplement B12. We also know that plant combos create complete proteins.
What I didn't understand is how much of everything I'd need for such a high intensity activity like long distance running. I have the bad habit of thinking if I'm eating fortified cereal with fortified almond milk that I'm okay with the B vitamins.
I also assumed if I was eating a variety of grains, veg and legumes that I was covered in the amino department.
I thought I was getting enough B12. I thought I was getting enough protein and potassium. I thought I had everything I needed nutritionally. But when you're working your body as hard as you can work it, the amount of nutrients it requires skyrockets.
When I made a concerted effort to add a lot more of everything, I saw a big difference in recovery and performance.
I came up with this recipe to incorporate more nooch and protein into my diet. It yields a creamy, cheesy, salty puree that you'll enjoy adding to whatever you're eating.
1/2 block silken firm tofu
1/2 cup nooch
2 garlic cloves
1 serrano pepper
2 tsps salt
1 tbl olive oil
Buzz it all up until a fluffy, whipped mousse is formed. I used a stick blender.
Use it as a mayo replacement, a dip, a puree. Or just eat it by the spoonful if you're so inclined. It's a creamy, salty, garlicky, unami treat.
It'll help keep your runs long and joyful and make your runner's highs more consistent.
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