Ep 4. Junk-Less Food

In the fourth episode of season 3 of Not My Mama's Meals, entitled Junk-Less Food, chef Bobby Deen sets out to create delicious and satisfying meals that are also healthy and nutritious. With the help of some special guests, he explores various ways to swap out unhealthy ingredients for healthier ones without sacrificing flavor.

First, Bobby visits a farmer's market to stock up on fresh, locally grown produce. He is joined by nutritionist and wellness expert Joy Bauer, who offers tips on how to make the most of your fruits and vegetables. They pick up some colorful carrots, leafy greens, and other delicious-looking produce to use in their recipes.

Back in the kitchen, Bobby gets started on his first recipe: a veggie-packed pizza. Instead of using traditional pizza dough, he makes a cauliflower crust that is lower in carbs and higher in fiber. He piles on sautéed onions and mushrooms, roasted red peppers, and a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese. Joy approves of the nutrient-packed meal, and they both dig in.

Next up is a hearty kale salad with roasted sweet potatoes and goat cheese. Bobby explains that he loves kale because it's packed with nutrients and has a nice, hearty texture. He massages the kale with a little olive oil and lemon juice to soften it up before topping it with roasted sweet potatoes and a sprinkle of crumbled goat cheese. Joy notes that this salad is high in fiber and healthy fats, making it a perfect option for anyone looking to eat healthier.

For their third dish, Bobby and Joy make a homemade energy bar using wholesome ingredients like oats, almonds, and dried fruit. Bobby explains that many store-bought energy bars are loaded with sugar and other unhealthy ingredients, so making your own allows you to control what goes into them. He mixes all the ingredients together in a food processor, then lets the mixture chill in the fridge before slicing it into bars.

Finally, Bobby and Joy create a healthy take on everyone's favorite guilty pleasure: mac and cheese. Instead of using traditional pasta, they use spiralized sweet potatoes and carrots to create a nutrient-rich base. They mix in a creamy sauce made from cashews, nutritional yeast, and spices for that classic mac and cheese flavor. The result is a deliciously satisfying meal that's also packed with vitamins and minerals.

Throughout the episode, Bobby and Joy share their tips for making healthy swaps and incorporating more whole foods into your diet. They emphasize the importance of listening to your body and finding a balance that works for you. Whether you're looking to lose weight or simply feel better, the recipes in this episode are sure to inspire you to eat more healthily without sacrificing taste.