Vegan Banana Pancakes

When we moved to Thailand nine months ago I decided to become vegetarian. It was as easy as that, I eat delicious food and never crave meat or feel like I'm missing out by not eating it. (I'm sure it would be different back in the UK but for now I'm very happy).  Since we often eat at little vegan restaurants that use amazing meat substitutes, I figured I would try cutting out eggs and dairy for a month - how hard could it be?

Actually it's fine but I'm feeling a bit deprived of sweets and treats. I know you can make delicious vegan desserts but sometimes it feels like you need 17 types of organic nut butter, a blender, dehydrator and a space rocket. Since I have none of those things I have been going without.

But here is a vegan pancake recipe with 5 ingredients you probably already have in your cupboards. We enjoyed these as a leisurely weekend breakfast but dollop on some vegan ice cream or coconut cream and pudding's sorted!

A Christmas dinner in Thailand

How do you cook Christmas dinner for four in Thailand? Without an oven. When two of your party are vegetarian. ???!!

You get creative! Roast potatoes were obviously out of the question but we made up for it in mash and sauteed potatoes. Aunt Bessie provided the yorkshire puddings and we were stocked up on instant veggie stuffing and gravy. The meat-eaters bought a rotisserie chicken made some rather giant pigs in blankets. Us vegetarians enjoyed 'vegan duck' (don't knock it 'til you've tried it - it's awesome!) from our favourite Buddhist cult/vegan restaurant. 

Accompanied by wine, beer, and all things mulled, we didn't even have space for our Christmas pud.