Leek Soup – Dina Avila, Photographer

Now that 2012 is here I wonder how many of you have resolutions. I don’t really do resolutions, but I do have goals and affirmations that I work on and tweak throughout the year. Most of them are photography and business related, marketing plan, finances/equipment, personal projects. But many are personal, active listening (I used to be so good at that), open heart, positive attitude, confidence (in all things, especially my work), yoga. I’ve reached and attained some of my goals from 2011, the big one being that my birthday (November) present to myself was to shed the job that I hated and that was holding me back spiritually, emotionally, financially and in my career and to become a full-time freelance photographer. I’m know I wrote that one down and there’s a scrap of paper, several journal entries or a note on a back of napkin somewhere, but I verbalized it to the universe and to anyone who was willing to listen so often throughout the year that I manifested that path. I honestly didn’t think it was going to happen, but it did.

I’m curious about your goals and affirmations. What big plans, expectations and dreams do you have for 2012? I’m not a huge fan of the word dream because it feels so unattainable. Perhaps intentions is a better word.

One of my goals is to be more active on my blog. It’s one of my favorite things to do and a wonderful way to ensure that I am always making pictures (building my portfolio), exploring my passions for cooking and food, and sharing my work with some of my favorite and most supportive people: You :)

I hope that 2012 exceeds all of your hopes and expectations and that you often surprised and delighted with how the universe actually listens.

Cheers!

~

Warm and Spicy Cauliflower Soup

I made this soup last night for me and Adam and it was a perfect meal after along walk on a brisk winter’s afternoon. Served with flatbread, as per Adam’s request :)

Adapted from Alice Waters, The Art of Simple Food

What you’ll need~

1/4 cup olive oil

1 onion, diced

1 carrot diced

1 teaspoon coriander seeds, crushed

1 teaspoon cumin seeds, crushed

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/4 teaspoon tumeric

1/4 teaspoon dried chile flakes

Salt and pepper

Fresh Cilantro, about 10 sprigs chopped

1 head cauliflower, coarsely chopped

3 cups duck or chicken broth

3 cups water, more or less depending on desired consistency

Yogurt, optional

1-2 cups farro, cooked

~

Warm olive oil in a large, heavy bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot and spices and cook until softened stirring often.

Add the cilantro, cauliflower, broth and water.

Bring soup to a boil, stirring occasionally.

Reduce heat to a simmer and cook until the cauliflower is tender.

Stir in the farro and serve warm. Top with a dollop of yogurt.