Breakfast of Champions!

I think breakfast is underrated most of the time. A quick piece of toast with coffee while rushing out the door in the morning just doesn't cut it. Or a pop tart for that matter! Think about this, you ate dinner at 7 the night before, slept for 6-8 hours, you wake up and really what your body needs most is some serious fuel to launch you into the busy day. But refined carbs (the pop tart or toast) are only going to give you a quick surge followed by a steep crash. The answer? Eat a lot of good food in the early hours. It's when the body's digestion is at it's peak, and how breakfast can set the tone for the remainder of the day. This recipe is one of my favorites. Coconut milk, cinnamon, dried fruit, shredded coconut, walnuts, and vanilla are added to cooked brown rice for a warm creamy start to the day. Brown rice is a whole grain (the fibrous hull has not been removed), entering the bloodstream slower than refined carbs. This type of meal burns slow and steady aided by the healthy fat from coconut as it digests. Plus it tastes indulgent to say the least. Lighter than oatmeal, with satisfying texture and substantial staying power.

Morning Coconut Rice Bowl:

*2 cups cooked short grain brown rice

*1/2 cup coconut milk

*1/4 cup water

*1/3 cup shredded coconut, unsweetened

*1/3 cup favorite dried fruit (I like currants, cherries, or raisins)

*1 tsp cinnamon

*1 tsp vanilla

*1 Tbsp flax seeds

*1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, cashews or almonds)

In a small saucepan, combine cooked rice with coconut milk and water over med-low heat. Mix well. Stir in remaining ingredients. Heat through and serve warm.