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There are affiliate links throughout this blog post for your convenience, where I can earn a small commission. I never support a product or brand I don't personally use and enjoy, but if you'd like to learn more, you can head to this page!
Whether you've been running for years or just picked it up, there's one thing that gets a really bad reputation: the treadmill. I've even heard it referred to as "the dreadmill" since it can be fairly boring compared to running outside. And for those who think it is boring, they have a fair point: you likely don't have as many surroundings to look at if your treadmill isn't near a window. I started running more on the treadmill when I'd go to the gym to start weight lifting. It was an easy way to incorporate HIIT cardio. Plus, you have a flat surface that is completely in your control. But I didn't want to ever look at it as the "dreadmill." So I experimented and now, I actually prefer treadmill running over running outside! Here are seven ways to make the treadmill less boring and indoor running more fun. 
1. Watch a First Person POV video
First person POV videos are a fantastic way to make the treadmill less boring.
The treadmills at my gym offer a service called RunTV, where you can pick an interactive workout. These will show a specific scenery and match the incline to simulate running the beach or mountains. You don't need a fancy treadmill for this, though - a tablet or phone will do just fine! There are tons of YouTube channels out there that offer first person POV videos designed for running on the treadmill or pedaling on a stationary bike. Just look up "treadmill videos" and you'll find a bunch. This one is one of my favorites from World Nature Video:
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The key to getting your sunny side up egg to cover nearly the entire bowl without the extra yolks? All you have to do is add extra egg whites when you're making it. The toppings rest on top of the soft egg with the help of the thick noodles in the broth beneath it.
Udon noodles, if you've never had them, are the ultimate comfort noodle. They're thick, a little chewy, and absolutely wonderful in a hot soup. They're also great stir-fried for a yakiudon style dish! This dish would also be great with soba noodles, but the thickness of the noodle does help support the egg when plating.
Udon noodles, if you've never had them, are the ultimate comfort noodle. They're thick, a little chewy, and absolutely wonderful in a hot soup. They're also great stir-fried for a yakiudon style dish! This dish would also be great with soba noodles, but the thickness of the noodle does help support the egg when plating.
ingredients (serves 4)
- 0.5 cup roast chicken breast (optional)
- 4 cups cooked udon noodles
Broth:
- 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp miso paste
- 2 tbsp low sodium soy sauce
- 0.5 cup sweet onion
- 1 tsp minced ginger
Toppings:
- 1 egg + 0.25 cup liquid egg whites
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Nori sheets, thinly sliced (I recommend using snack-sized sheets so you can just quickly cut them with scissors and save a little time!) to taste
- 1 tsp wasabi paste or avocado
Instructions
- Let all broth ingredients simmer in a pot. I recommend using a slow cooker if you have one and letting it sit for at least 5 hours. I find that the longer it sits, the more flavorful it is.
- Cook udon noodles. Add 1 cup of noodles into four bowls.
- Add broth over noodles then add roast chicken.
- Cook your egg sunny-side up. To enlarge the egg to look more like the anime, you can add 0.25 cup liquid egg whites to surround the existing egg.
- Add the cooked egg to the udon. Top with wasabi paste (or avocado if you don't like wasabi), sliced green onion, and sliced nori.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
the verdict
This dish was so tasty and the flavor profiles all really complemented each other. It was super filling and definitely had a good deal of protein thanks to the egg and chicken combo. I rate it a 10/10 for flavor.
I'd definitely make this again! It was super simple to make, too. If you don't want to roast your own chicken, you can buy Perdue chicken pre-made in your grocery store. They're in the refrigerated section, usually near bacon and deli meats. This gets a 10/10 for ease of recreation, too!
Have a food from an anime that you want me to try to recreate? Let me know in the comments below! Plus, follow me on TikTok to see the behind the scenes of how this was made.
I'd definitely make this again! It was super simple to make, too. If you don't want to roast your own chicken, you can buy Perdue chicken pre-made in your grocery store. They're in the refrigerated section, usually near bacon and deli meats. This gets a 10/10 for ease of recreation, too!
Have a food from an anime that you want me to try to recreate? Let me know in the comments below! Plus, follow me on TikTok to see the behind the scenes of how this was made.
There are affiliate links throughout this blog post for your convenience, where I can earn a small commission. I never support a product or brand I don't personally use and enjoy, but if you'd like to learn more, you can head to this page!
We're making a Naruto recipe today that has me a bit nervous, but also excited... the Curry of Life! The Curry of Life makes its appearance in Episode 153. Rock Lee loves the Curry of Life, and this curry is even known to revive people from unconsciousness or heal them from the brink of death due to its extreme spiciness.
The Curry of Life as seen in Naruto.
I am a weak baby when it comes to spicy foods, so I'll be using standard sriracha. We'll be calling it the Neji Version, since Neji doesn't have a high spicy food tolerance either. Look for that if you're not a fan of super spicy, either!
However, Anthony has a higher tolerance - and willingness - to try extremely spicy foods, so he'll be trying the true Curry of Life. We'll call this the Rock Lee version.
If you want something more in the middle of the road, look for the Naruto version.
A few years ago, Anthony's coworkers had a contest to see who could make it the furthest. One of his coworkers is a hot sauce connoisseur that brought in a bunch for people to try with wings, and Anthony actually made it to the very end... despite some dripping on his chin and making his face go numb as a result.
Mad Dog 357 Gold Edition. Buy it on Amazon.
The hot sauce he got for this recipe is even hotter than the hottest one his coworker brought in to work that day. He'll be using the Mad Dog 357 Gold Edition, which clocks in at 1 million Scoville units. It includes the world's three hottest peppers: the Carolina Reaper Pepper, Scorpion Pepper, and Ghost Pepper.
The bottle even includes a legal disclaimer saying that you're not inebriated, you understand the risks, and you'll tread with caution... and you won't sue the company if you don't. It includes a little bullet-shaped keychain that holds a serving spoon, and it is tiny.
Mad Dog's Serving Spoon vs. 1/2 tsp measuring spoon
What we'll be doing is adding our spicy element after we've already made our curry, so that way we can have some not-spicy-curry available in case it's too much. Then, you get to customize your heat levels each time.
ingredients
- 1 package S&B Golden Curry Powder blocks
- Neji edition: Mild. Buy it on Amazon.
- Naruto edition: Medium Hot. Buy it on Amazon.
- Rock Lee edition: Extra hot. Buy it on Amazon.
- 2.25 cup water
- 2 Yukon gold potatoes, diced
- 2-4 carrots, sliced
- 0.5 sweet onion, diced
- 1 tbsp oil
- hot sauce
- Neji edition: sriracha. Buy it on Amazon.
- Naruto edition: hot sauce. Buy it on Amazon.
- Rock Lee edition: Mad Dog 357 Gold Edition. Buy it on Amazon.
- Protein of choice (I'll be using tofu, air fried for 20 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit)
- Rice (I recommend at least 0.5 cup cooked rice per person, but you can add more if you want)
how to make curry of life
- In a pot, heat some onions with oil until they start to caramelize.
- Add sliced carrots and diced potato. Put the lid on and let them steam until tender.
- Add water to your pot.
- Once water begins to boil, add curry blocks. Constantly stir until well mixed.
- Separate curry into servings to add desired amount of hot sauce per serving. If you're using something like the Mad Dog 357, please be cautious! The tiny teaspoon is more than enough for a single serving of curry.
- Serve curry over cooked rice and your choice of protein.
Have a food from an anime that you want me to try to recreate? Let me know in the comments below! Plus, follow me on TikTok to see the behind the scenes of how this was made.
There are affiliate links throughout this blog post for your convenience, where I can earn a small commission. I never support a product or brand I don't personally use and enjoy, but if you'd like to learn more, you can head to this page!
Whenever I share a recipe with tofu, I usually get a few questions asking to get into more detail for how to make tofu crispy and flavorful.
Tofu can sound intimidating and it gets a bad reputation. But I truly believe that people who don’t like tofu only don’t like it because it wasn’t made properly. The beauty of tofu is that it can take on pretty much whatever flavor you want to give it.
I first started incorporating tofu into my diet for two reasons:
Alongside my tips, I'll be including the recipe for how I make one of my favorite Japanese meals: yakiudon, a stir-fried noodle dish!
Tofu can sound intimidating and it gets a bad reputation. But I truly believe that people who don’t like tofu only don’t like it because it wasn’t made properly. The beauty of tofu is that it can take on pretty much whatever flavor you want to give it.
I first started incorporating tofu into my diet for two reasons:
- As a flexitarian who really only occasionally eats fish, chicken, and turkey, I wanted to add a new type of protein into my diet so I wouldn’t get as bored with my weekly meal prep (I also incorporated seitan for this reason and also love that).
- I also love Japanese food and will be heading to Japan once all this COVID craziness is over and their borders reopen to tourists. Tofu is a huge staple in the Japanese diet. So, I wanted to try it to expand my palate both at home and abroad. I ended up loving it!
Alongside my tips, I'll be including the recipe for how I make one of my favorite Japanese meals: yakiudon, a stir-fried noodle dish!
Yakiudon ingredients (serves 4)
- Udon noodles (use as many noodles as you want to include per serving; I recommend 1 cup cooked per person)
- 1 tbsp oil
- 2 blocks firm or extra firm tofu
- Veggies of choice: I like to use carrots, green onion, cabbage, & sweet onion, but feel free to get creative here!
- For the sauce (or, you can buy a Mentsuyu sauce or yakisoba sauce on Amazon):
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp mirin
- 1 tsp rice wine vinegar
- Optional ingredients for topping:
- Bonito flakes to taste
- extra green onion
- furikake seasoning
How to make yakiudon
- Press and drain tofu of water, then cut into cubes. Marinade with soy sauce or some of the mentsuyu sauce, and set in the fridge until ready to cook.
- Pan fry tofu until outside is crispy, or air fry it at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes. (See notes below for tips of crispy tofu)
- Cook udon noodles in boiling water per package instructions. Be careful to not overcook them since you'll be adding them to your wok or pan later!
- While waiting for the water to boil and/or noodles to cook, mix all of the ingredients for the sauce in a jar or bowl and set aside.
- Add oil to a wok or pan and stir fry your vegetables. Add your noodles, tofu, and sauce and mix well.
- Optional: top with bonito flakes, green onions, and/or furikake seasoning and enjoy!
Tofu mythbusting
Let’s quickly do some myth busting here. Because it’s soy-based, a lot of people worry about an increased breast cancer risk. But (per the Mayo Clinic) studies have actually shown the opposite: eating a moderate amount of soy foods will not increase your risk of cancer, including breast cancer. The studies also show that a diet rich in soy foods can reduce your breast cancer risk!
This is because there are pretty low levels of plant estrogens (called isoflavones) in tofu and other soy foods like edamame and soy milk. These levels aren’t high enough to cause an increase. The same does not hold true for isaflavone supplements, though, so just be sure to chat with your doctor before taking any supplements (especially if you have concerns).
This is because there are pretty low levels of plant estrogens (called isoflavones) in tofu and other soy foods like edamame and soy milk. These levels aren’t high enough to cause an increase. The same does not hold true for isaflavone supplements, though, so just be sure to chat with your doctor before taking any supplements (especially if you have concerns).
Tips for crispy tofu
In my experience, the key to crispy tofu is making sure you properly drain it. Some people like to freeze their tofu before letting it thaw and then draining it because then, you can get some nice little pockets in your tofu for texture. But I don’t think this is necessary if you, like me, frequently forget to freeze it or are trying to make it more quickly and don’t want to wait for it as long.
I like to take my tofu out of the packaging, place it on a towel, and then wrap it tightly in the towel and press it between two cutting boards. Anthony has a large wood cutting board and we also have a smaller marble pastry board, so I’ll use the wood one as a base and then put the pastry board on top.
I let it sit like this for at least 30 minutes, but if I need to expedite the process, I’ll take a dumbbell and place it on top of the pastry board to help speed the process along. If you’re letting it sit for a while, though, I’d recommend using a thicker towel or swapping it out after some time to make sure you’re really getting all the moisture out of the tofu.
You can also press the tofu block in your hands to drain it, but sandwiching it between two heavy objects is easier for me and I know that way, all the moisture is gone.
I like to take my tofu out of the packaging, place it on a towel, and then wrap it tightly in the towel and press it between two cutting boards. Anthony has a large wood cutting board and we also have a smaller marble pastry board, so I’ll use the wood one as a base and then put the pastry board on top.
I let it sit like this for at least 30 minutes, but if I need to expedite the process, I’ll take a dumbbell and place it on top of the pastry board to help speed the process along. If you’re letting it sit for a while, though, I’d recommend using a thicker towel or swapping it out after some time to make sure you’re really getting all the moisture out of the tofu.
You can also press the tofu block in your hands to drain it, but sandwiching it between two heavy objects is easier for me and I know that way, all the moisture is gone.
Tips for more flavorful tofu
The key to flavorful tofu is giving it enough time to marinate. Once I’ve drained my tofu, I’ll dice it up, put it in a bowl with my marinade or sauce of choice, and then just let it hang out in the fridge until I’m ready to cook it. I like to let it marinate for at least an hour but the longer, the better.
Then, once you are ready, you can bake, air fry, or pan fry it. If I’m baking or air frying, I like to do so at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. I’ll start at 15 minutes and then go in 5 minute intervals if I want it crispier. The best way is to have it still be a bit soft on the inside, so you don’t want to overcook it.
Then, once you are ready, you can bake, air fry, or pan fry it. If I’m baking or air frying, I like to do so at 400 degrees Fahrenheit. I’ll start at 15 minutes and then go in 5 minute intervals if I want it crispier. The best way is to have it still be a bit soft on the inside, so you don’t want to overcook it.
Have a food from an anime that you want me to try to recreate? Let me know in the comments below! Plus, follow me on TikTok to see the behind the scenes of how this was made.
There are affiliate links throughout this blog post for your convenience, where I can earn a small commission. I never support a product or brand I don't personally use and enjoy, but if you'd like to learn more, you can head to this page!
If you've been following along for a little while now, you've probably seen some of my anime recipes on here. One of my favorite shows is Osomatsu-san, and one of the characters runs his own oden stand. My friend Liz introduced me to the show and challenged me to make some oden that Chibita, the oden vendor, would be proud of.
Oden is a Japanese seafood stew. It's a hot pot style dish that is pretty customizable at oden stalls and was super delicious. We ended up making a run to our local Asian market to grab some of these ingredients, but I'll share some things you can also find on Amazon in case your local Asian market doesn't have those or if you need to make it yourself.
I've also made imoni that was featured in Osomatsu-san, so if you want a non-seafood stew, check that out!
Oden is a Japanese seafood stew. It's a hot pot style dish that is pretty customizable at oden stalls and was super delicious. We ended up making a run to our local Asian market to grab some of these ingredients, but I'll share some things you can also find on Amazon in case your local Asian market doesn't have those or if you need to make it yourself.
I've also made imoni that was featured in Osomatsu-san, so if you want a non-seafood stew, check that out!
Oden ingredients as featured in the end credits of Osomatsu-san
What's in oden
Oden typically contains the following ingredients:
- Konnyaku cake (yam cake)
- You will likely need to shop at an Asian market for this. They are typically grey blocks and jelly-like.
- Fish cakes
- You will likely need to shop at an Asian market for this. Look for fresh or frozen packages labeled "oden kit" or "seafood combo"
- Mochi kinchaku (a fried tofu pouch stuffed with plain mochi)
- You will likely need to shop at an Asian market for this
- See below for how to make your own
- Boiled eggs
- Carrots, sliced
- Nishime kombu (dried seaweed)
- You will likely need to shop at an Asian market for this
- Konjac noodles, wrapped
- You can get these at Asian markets or on Amazon here
- Please note that a lot of dieters like to use konjac noodles as a substitute for other noodles because it is low in calories. However, it is also very high in fiber. I recommend small quantities of this item if you include it in your oden, especially if you have never had it before!
- Daikon radish, sliced
- You should be able to get this at nearly any grocery store but an Asian market will almost definitely have it
- Dashi broth with soy sauce and mirin
Make your own aburaage
If you can't find the tofu pouches anywhere, then you can do the following to make your own aburaage:
- Thinly slice a block of tofu and press it to drain the water.
- Once pressed, deep fry the tofu slices, turning them over frequently so the inside can get puffy. The outside of your tofu should look sort of bubbly as it fries.
- Once you're done frying your tofu, slice down the middle. You may need to also slice a bit inside to create the pocket.
- Prepare kirimochi and stuff it into the tofu pocket. We used this exact kirimochi and microwaved it for 4 minutes per the package instructions. Some of it came out almost burnt, so I'd recommend starting at 2-3 minutes and then monitoring in increments.
- Weave a toothpick through the top to create a pouch shape with the tofu.
My favorite oden recipes
To help me make the oden with the ingredients I did have, I turned to multiple YouTube videos from cooking bloggers to make sure I was doing this right. Even though I couldn't get my hands on konnyaku anywhere, this was still delicious without it thanks to their help and guidance!
But here are some great videos you can watch for inspiration as you build your own oden dish. These are from Just One Cookbook, Kimono Mom, and ochikeron.
But here are some great videos you can watch for inspiration as you build your own oden dish. These are from Just One Cookbook, Kimono Mom, and ochikeron.
The verdict
Oden was a labor of love since there were a lot of moving pieces, so it wasn't the easiest anime food to replicate. However, it was completely worth it. The flavor was delicious and we both really enjoyed this. We'll definitely be making more trips to our local Asian grocery store to see if we can keep finding more of the ingredients when they're in stock!
It was a hearty dish that was packed with veggies and protein, so it was very filling without feeling heavy in your stomach.
It was a hearty dish that was packed with veggies and protein, so it was very filling without feeling heavy in your stomach.
Have a food from an anime that you want me to try to recreate? Let me know in the comments below! Plus, follow me on TikTok to see the behind the scenes of how this was made.
There are affiliate links throughout this blog post for your convenience, where I can earn a small commission. I never support a product or brand I don't personally use and enjoy, but if you'd like to learn more, you can head to this page!
Now that I have agar agar powder in my pantry after making Tsuyu Asui-inspired jelly, I wanted to try another famous jelly recipe from anime: coffee jelly! Coffee jelly got its start in the UK, but is now common in Japan's convenience stores and restaurants.
This dessert makes an appearance in The Disastrous Life of Saiki K, an anime about a teenager with psychic superpowers. Kusuo Saiki, the titular character, is a big fan of coffee jelly. Given I have quite the caffeine addiction myself, I was excited to give this a try!
This dessert makes an appearance in The Disastrous Life of Saiki K, an anime about a teenager with psychic superpowers. Kusuo Saiki, the titular character, is a big fan of coffee jelly. Given I have quite the caffeine addiction myself, I was excited to give this a try!
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Coffee jelly is sometimes served as cubes inside a sweet cream (almost resembling an iced coffee beverage), but we'll be making ours to look as close to the show's as possible, which looks more like a ramekin-sized block of jelly with whipped cream. Since agar agar powder is vegan, to keep this a plant-based recipe, we'll be using a nondairy whipped cream.
I'm using Reddi Whip's almond milk variant, but if you prefer the coconut milk whipped cream or another vegan whipped cream then that works too.
Coffee jelly is sometimes served as cubes inside a sweet cream (almost resembling an iced coffee beverage), but we'll be making ours to look as close to the show's as possible, which looks more like a ramekin-sized block of jelly with whipped cream. Since agar agar powder is vegan, to keep this a plant-based recipe, we'll be using a nondairy whipped cream.
I'm using Reddi Whip's almond milk variant, but if you prefer the coconut milk whipped cream or another vegan whipped cream then that works too.
Ingredients (Makes approx. 5 servings)
- 2-3 tsp instant coffee (depending on how strong you want it)
- 6 oz water in a mug
- 1.5 cups water to boil
- 2 tsp agar agar aka kanten powder
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract or Jordan's Skinny Syrups Vanilla
- 1 tbsp sweetener (I'm using Stevia to keep this low calorie, but you can absolutely use real sugar)
- The Stevia I use is Whole Earth, which is plant-based & suitable for vegans! If you are trying to keep this dish vegan, just be aware that some refined sugars get their color from a process that involves bone char.
- Whipped cream (non-dairy to keep this dish vegan); I like to use about 4 tbsp per serving
Instructions
- Add agar agar powder, sweetener, vanilla, and 1.5 cup water to a pot and whisk together. Do this before the water has started to boil to prevent clumping.
- While you wait for the water to heat up, prepare your instant coffee with instant coffee and 6 oz water. Add to the pot.
- Once your water is at a rolling boil, reduce heat to low and simmer for 3 minutes.
- Fill ramekins (mine filled 5 ramekins total, but this may vary depending on the size of yours) or other container with mixture and let sit in the fridge.
- Optional: When ready to serve, remove from ramekin and present on a plate or in a glass.
- Serve with whipped cream.
Nutritional Information
Including the whipped cream, if you use stevia, each of the five ramekins contains...
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If you're following Weight Watchers, this recipe is super low in SmartPoints! This is only 1 SmartPoint on all myWW plans.
The Verdict
I'm a huge fan of coffee and often drink it black. So that being said, I thought this was sweet but not too sweet! The flavor profile reminded me a lot of a more dressed up iced coffee drink, and the jelly texture is great for this warmer spring weather we've been having in Florida. I'd rate it a 9/10, and will give it a 10/10 next time when I make the coffee a bit stronger.
For ease of replication, definitely a 10/10. Agar agar is super easy to work with, even more so than standard gelatin in my opinion.
Have a food from an anime that you want me to try to recreate? Let me know in the comments below! Plus, follow me on TikTok to see the behind the scenes of how this was made.
For ease of replication, definitely a 10/10. Agar agar is super easy to work with, even more so than standard gelatin in my opinion.
Have a food from an anime that you want me to try to recreate? Let me know in the comments below! Plus, follow me on TikTok to see the behind the scenes of how this was made.
You May Also Like...
There are affiliate links throughout this blog post for your convenience, where I can earn a small commission. I never support a product or brand I don't personally use and enjoy, but if you'd like to learn more, you can head to this page!
After My Hero Academia Week, I received a request from TikTok user cookie_.demon._ to make Tsuyu Asui's favorite food! Tsuyu Asui - aka Froppy - is my favorite student in My Hero Academia so I was really excited to get this request.
Tsuyu's favorite food is jelly, which is really fitting since her Quirk (aka superpower for those of you unfamiliar with the show) is that she's part-frog!
Since Tsuyu is Japanese, we'll be making a Japanese fruit jelly, which is a bit different than your standard Jell-O. But since her costume and character design is heavily centered around the color green, we'll be giving this a little bit of a twist that breaks away from the traditional way of making the dessert. Don't worry, it's super easy and won't impact the taste.
Tsuyu's favorite food is jelly, which is really fitting since her Quirk (aka superpower for those of you unfamiliar with the show) is that she's part-frog!
Since Tsuyu is Japanese, we'll be making a Japanese fruit jelly, which is a bit different than your standard Jell-O. But since her costume and character design is heavily centered around the color green, we'll be giving this a little bit of a twist that breaks away from the traditional way of making the dessert. Don't worry, it's super easy and won't impact the taste.
Tsuyu's info card as shown in My Hero Academia
If you're trying to eat in a calorie deficit like me or if you're concerned about your sugar intake for dietary reasons, I'll include some easy swaps you can make to keep the sugar content low.
Also, this dish is accidentally vegetarian! If you get a plant-based food coloring (you can get this at Whole Foods) then this will even be vegan-friendly.
Ingredients
- Optional (for the Froppy twist!): Green food coloring
- Fruit of choice (I recommend strawberry slices, kiwi slices, or berries!)
- Agar agar aka kanten powder (this is different from Jell-O because its clear, flavorless, and it doesn't melt at room temp like Jell-O can!)
- To taste: sugar or Stevia
- Water
- Optional: flavored syrup or fruit juice for flavor
See instructions for ratio of water and agar agar.
Instructions
- Dissolve agar agar into water. If using 1 cup of water, start with 1 tsp agar agar.
- Bring water to boil after dissolving agar agar to prevent clumping. Once your water is at a rolling boil, reduce heat to low and simmer for 3 minutes.
- Add sweetener and one or two drops of food coloring. Stir until well-blended.
- Take off heat and pour half of the agar agar mixture into a mold
- If you don't have a square mold for Jell-O, you can use a brownie pan
- If you have ice cube trays or specific Jell-O molds, that works too!
- Let cool in the fridge or at room temp for a few minutes while you cut your fruit into slices. Mine only took about 3 minutes in the fridge to reach the next stage.
- Once your jelly has just begun to set (it shouldn't be completely set yet), add fruit slices, then top with the remaining half.
- If it's completely set, then the top layer won't be able to bind with the bottom. Make sure your jelly is still really soft, but has started to form.
- Let set in the fridge until the jelly has completely set. Use a knife to cut around the fruit and then serve.
The Verdict
This is a such a refreshing dessert option to have for spring and summer and it was really easy to make! Here are some tips for you to make yours perfect:
Tips:
Tips:
- Make thicker squares by using 2 cups of water and 2 tsp of agar agar
- Make sure all of your fruit is sliced evenly. If your fruit slices are thick, I recommend making a thicker jelly.
- Since agar agar is flavorless, if you'd prefer a flavored jelly, you can try this with Jell-O.
- In that case, you wouldn't need to use sweetener or food coloring.
- If you're trying to keep the sugar low, you can use a sugar-free Jell-O.
- If you still want to use the agar agar but also want to add flavoring, I recommend using a flavor syrup or fruit juice.
- If you're trying to keep this low sugar, I recommend Jordan's Skinny Syrups. Most of their products are for coffee, but their cocktail mixes would work great here to add some flavor.
- Another low sugar option is finding a sugar free fruit juice of your choice at your grocery store.
Nutritional info (if using Stevia)
| If you use Stevia, the nutritional information is as follows based on 9 servings when using 1 cup of water and 1 tsp of agar agar:
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Have a food from an anime that you want me to try to recreate? Let me know in the comments below! Plus, follow me on TikTok to see the behind the scenes of how this was made.
You may also like...
- How to easily make takoyaki at home
- All recipes from My Hero Academia Week
- Two Ingredient Dole Whip (Zero SmartPoints)
There are affiliate links throughout this blog post for your convenience, where I can earn a small commission. I never support a product or brand I don't personally use and enjoy, but if you'd like to learn more, you can head to this page!
My Hero Academia week may be over, but there are still plenty of recipes from the show to be made! TikTok user @tiredbones21 requested that we make takoyaki, which is featured in this show. I love takoyaki but have never made it myself, so I'll be sharing this beginner-friendly way to make takoyaki at home. Takoyaki is, simply put, a fried dough ball stuffed with grilled octopus.
Takoyaki featured in My Hero Academia with Kirishima, Amajiki, and Fat Gum
This is featured in My Hero Academia with Fat Gum’s introduction, since takoyaki is a classic Osaka street food and that’s where he lives. It’s also where Amajiki got his tentacles from when he converted his food for his Quirk, Manifest.
Amajiki's Quirk, Manifest, lets him convert the food he eats into extensions of his body in fights!
Takoyaki is actually featured in a bunch of different anime. My first exposure to it was Cardcaptor Sakura as a kid!
Kero-chan enjoying takoyaki from Cardcaptor Sakura
Everything you need, you can get on Amazon. You can order a takoyaki maker if you want to make more at a time, but I wanted to give this a try before I committed to a larger kitchen appliance (especially since we don't have much room in our small galley kitchen). So, I ordered this small cake pop maker that the reviews said work great for takoyaki as well. Plus, with the cake pop maker, I don't have to turn the takoyaki over since it functions similarly to a waffle iron.
Ingredients
Measurements are for about 3 servings, or 25 pieces of takoyaki
- 4 oz. Otafuku takoyaki kit (this comes with the takoyaki sauce and takoyaki flour)
- 1 Green onion
- 4 oz. octopus, grilled and chopped
- 12 oz. Water
- 2 Eggs
- 2 tbsp Pickled ginger
- Bonito flakes to taste
-
2 tbsp mayonnaise (preferably Japanese kewpie mayo, but you can use regular mayo)
- If you're following Weight Watchers or are on a calorie deficit, you can use a light mayo instead
Instructions
Instructions taken from the Otafuku takoyaki kit bag. The maker I used is nonstick, so I just used a bit of cooking spray, but you may need to use oil if your maker is not non-stick.
- Grill and chop octopus tentacles and set aside.
- In a bowl, mix the takoyaki flour, water, and two eggs.
- Fill your takoyaki maker with batter about halfway. Evenly distribute fillings (except bonito flakes) in each hole, then fill to the brim with more batter.
- If you are using a traditional takoyaki maker (not the cake pop maker I bought), once the takoyaki is cooked halfway, flip them halfway with a toothpick.
- Once your takoyaki is golden brown, top with the takoyaki sauce, mayo, and bonito flakes and enjoy!
The verdict
These aren’t the easiest to make without a proper takoyaki maker, but the cake pop maker did the trick. I’d rate this a 8/10 for ease of replication but only because it took a while with the cake pop maker. Some of them also deflated fairly quickly. If we had a larger takoyaki maker, it’d have been a breeze.
The taste, though? Excellent! The fillings I selected were based off of what I’ve had at two separate Japanese restaurants here in Orlando, and these tasted really similar to the ones we had there. 10/10 on taste!
The taste, though? Excellent! The fillings I selected were based off of what I’ve had at two separate Japanese restaurants here in Orlando, and these tasted really similar to the ones we had there. 10/10 on taste!
Nutritional information
If making 25 takoyaki pieces, each ball contains approximately...
Have a food from an anime that you want me to try to recreate? Let me know in the comments below! Plus, follow me on TikTok to see the behind the scenes of how this was made.
- 40 calories
- 1 g fat
- 15.7 mg cholesterol
- 140 mg sodium
- 5 g carbs
- 0.1 g fiber
- 5 g sugar
- 2 g protein
Have a food from an anime that you want me to try to recreate? Let me know in the comments below! Plus, follow me on TikTok to see the behind the scenes of how this was made.
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There are affiliate links throughout this blog post for your convenience, where I can earn a small commission. I never support a product or brand I don't personally use and enjoy, but if you'd like to learn more, you can head to this page!
My favorite EPCOT festival is back: Flower and Garden Festival! If you can't make it to EPCOT this year and want a taste of Disney at home, check out some of my Disney recipes! EPCOT offers Dole Whip exclusively during Flower and Garden Festival, but you can whip it up at home easily (and for no SmartPoints!) with my recipe.
In the past, I've included the entire menu for Flower and Garden. But to keep things more simple for you, I'll just include some highlights of things that I think are easily adaptable to any Weight Watchers plan.
In the past, I've included the entire menu for Flower and Garden. But to keep things more simple for you, I'll just include some highlights of things that I think are easily adaptable to any Weight Watchers plan.
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Beyond a ton of beautiful topiaries throughout the park and yummy food samplings, there are also a bunch of photo opportunities and fun things to check out. The Butterfly Garden is back this year with a socially distanced queue (we saw Pooh frolicking nearby while we waited). Plus, there are butterfly wings you can pose in front of that jazz up some of the construction walls around the park.
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General Tips
- Remember that most of the food options at EPCOT's festivals are bite-sized. They're meant for sampling! So if you really want to try something but are nervous about the SmartPoints budget or calorie intake, don't stress it too much.
- If you are watching your SmartPoints budget but still want to try something around the world, look out for foods that typically have higher SmartPoints values.
- For example, things that are heavy in cheeses or sugar will likely be more calorie dense than something that is more protein-based.
- If you are interested in beverages but worried about your SmartPoints or calorie intake, there are many non-alcoholic options this year. Either way, be sure to balance it with plenty of water so you stay hydrated.
- You can get free cups of water from Starbucks on your way into the World Showcase (the new Starbucks location is at the front of the World Showcase entrance, on the side closer to Canada).
- Don't feel limited to just this list. If you really want something - have it! Every diet should be sustainable and focus on a healthy relationship with food. Do not punish yourself if you want to have something that is a dessert. Everything in moderation - not just at Disney, but all the time.
My favorite menu picks for Weight Watchers and Calorie Counters
I'll bring us around the world by location. I'll keep the order of the restaurants the same as they're listed in the Disney Parks Blog to keep things convenient!
Flavor Full Kitchen (Future World West)
The two entree options here are fantastic for any Weight Watchers program. They are:
Flavor Full Kitchen (Future World West)
The two entree options here are fantastic for any Weight Watchers program. They are:
- Grilled Baby Vegetables with Hummus Cream and Red Pepper Coulis (gluten/wheat friendly; plant-based; Garden Graze).
- Seared Verlasso Salmon with Farro Risotto and Micro Herbs.
Photos courtesy Disney Parks Blog
EPCOT Sunshine Griddle (Future World East)
I would love to try this Avocado Toast as a brunch option when starting my way around the World Showcase. It has marinated toybox tomatoes and a small amount of goat cheese on top. Its on a slice of toasted ciabatta bread, and its beautiful presentation will help your eyes feel as satisfied as your stomach.
The Honey Bee-stro (Showcase Plaza)
Everything here has either a lot of cheese, honey (aka sugar), or both, which is something to watch out for in abundance on Weight Watchers. However, the Lavender Honey Mustard-marinated Chicken Flatbread with Whipped Honey-Ricotta Cheese, Marinated Vegetables, and Purple Haze Lavender Goat Cheese is great for sampling and sharing a bite with your family.
The Citrus Blossom (Showcase Plaza)
I am excited to try the Meyer Lemon-poached Lobster Salad with Grapefruit-Rosé Vinaigrette, Yuzu-marinated Hearts of Palm, and Avocado-Yuzu Panna Cotta! It's new this year, friendly to those with gluten or wheat allergies, and sounds super refreshing - perfect for a warm Florida day.
I would love to try this Avocado Toast as a brunch option when starting my way around the World Showcase. It has marinated toybox tomatoes and a small amount of goat cheese on top. Its on a slice of toasted ciabatta bread, and its beautiful presentation will help your eyes feel as satisfied as your stomach.
The Honey Bee-stro (Showcase Plaza)
Everything here has either a lot of cheese, honey (aka sugar), or both, which is something to watch out for in abundance on Weight Watchers. However, the Lavender Honey Mustard-marinated Chicken Flatbread with Whipped Honey-Ricotta Cheese, Marinated Vegetables, and Purple Haze Lavender Goat Cheese is great for sampling and sharing a bite with your family.
The Citrus Blossom (Showcase Plaza)
I am excited to try the Meyer Lemon-poached Lobster Salad with Grapefruit-Rosé Vinaigrette, Yuzu-marinated Hearts of Palm, and Avocado-Yuzu Panna Cotta! It's new this year, friendly to those with gluten or wheat allergies, and sounds super refreshing - perfect for a warm Florida day.
The Lion King topiary near The Land
Refreshment Port (Showcase Plaza)
While there are other plant-based options throughout the festival, I want to call this out for those of you who are on a plant-based diet. You can get a plant-based Italian sausage and peppers poutine here which is great for sampling with your family or having as a hearty snack.
Pineapple Promenade (Showcase Plaza)
If you've been here before, you already know what I'm about to say. Dole Whip is a great sweet treat for Weight Watchers! It's only 5 SmartPoints and 90 calories per half cup, so it's not going to break your Weight Watchers budget.
Trowel & Trellis (Showcase Plaza)
This entire stand is plant-based! While plant-based doesn't necessarily mean it's lower in calories, fat, or SmartPoints, I've found in my personal experience that I feel less bloated after eating plant-based foods, so I enjoy recommending these dishes for those looking to try something different.
I'm really excited to try the Grilled Street Corn on the Cob with Savory Garlic Spread as a snack. I also think the Boneless Impossible Korean Short Rib with Cilantro-Lime Rice, Danmuji Slaw, and Kimchee Mayonnaise is a great base for a light meal before snacking around the world.
Refreshment Outpost
The only thing served here is a pineapple skewer, but it's got tajin seasoning on it. This is a great snack option to try for Zero SmartPoints and is low in calories.
While there are other plant-based options throughout the festival, I want to call this out for those of you who are on a plant-based diet. You can get a plant-based Italian sausage and peppers poutine here which is great for sampling with your family or having as a hearty snack.
Pineapple Promenade (Showcase Plaza)
If you've been here before, you already know what I'm about to say. Dole Whip is a great sweet treat for Weight Watchers! It's only 5 SmartPoints and 90 calories per half cup, so it's not going to break your Weight Watchers budget.
Trowel & Trellis (Showcase Plaza)
This entire stand is plant-based! While plant-based doesn't necessarily mean it's lower in calories, fat, or SmartPoints, I've found in my personal experience that I feel less bloated after eating plant-based foods, so I enjoy recommending these dishes for those looking to try something different.
I'm really excited to try the Grilled Street Corn on the Cob with Savory Garlic Spread as a snack. I also think the Boneless Impossible Korean Short Rib with Cilantro-Lime Rice, Danmuji Slaw, and Kimchee Mayonnaise is a great base for a light meal before snacking around the world.
Refreshment Outpost
The only thing served here is a pineapple skewer, but it's got tajin seasoning on it. This is a great snack option to try for Zero SmartPoints and is low in calories.
Bauernmarkt: Farmer’s Market (Germany)
I would recommend going for the options that have ham included. This extra protein will help you feel more satisfied with these heavier dishes.
Magnolia Terrace (America)
Oysters are Zero SmartPoints on myWW Blue and myWW Purple! The Cajun-style Roasted Oysters are a great protein-packed choice.
Taste of Marrakesh (Morocco)
Both entree choices are actually great since they both have lean protein sources as their base. Those are:
I would recommend going for the options that have ham included. This extra protein will help you feel more satisfied with these heavier dishes.
Magnolia Terrace (America)
Oysters are Zero SmartPoints on myWW Blue and myWW Purple! The Cajun-style Roasted Oysters are a great protein-packed choice.
Taste of Marrakesh (Morocco)
Both entree choices are actually great since they both have lean protein sources as their base. Those are:
- Moroccan Seafood Couscous with Shrimp, Mussels, Olives, Preserved Lemons, and Anchovy Breadcrumbs (new).
- Shakshuka: Moroccan Baked Eggs in a Spiced Eggplant and Tomato Stew (new).
Photo courtesy of Disney Parks Blog
La Isla Fresca (between Morocco and France)
I would opt for the Sugar Cane Shrimp Skewer with Steamed Rice and Coconut-Lime Sauce, which sounds like a refreshing and light option in the Florida heat!
Festival Favorites (World Showplace; this is the building over near the Canadian Joffrey's coffee stand)
The lightest option here sounds like the Watermelon Salad with Pickled Onions, Feta, and Balsamic Reduction!
EPCOT Farmers Feast (World Showplace)
The Duck Confit with Carrot Purée, Roasted Root Vegetables, Rainbow Chard, and Duck Jus packs some protein and has plenty of vegetables, so I'd say this is a great option.
If you like beets (often labeled a superfood), the Off the “Beet”en Path: Profiteroles with Red Beet Mousse, Golden Beet Pastry Cream, Whipped Goat Cheese Cream, and Candied Walnuts sounds like a sweet way to sneak in some veggies.
Northern Bloom (Canada)
A fantastic and delicious way to get in your protein is with the Seared Scallops with French Green Beans, Butter Potatoes, Brown Butter Vinaigrette and Apple-wood-smoked Bacon. I'm looking forward to trying this!
Jardin de Fiestas (Mexico)
All of these options are probably fairly equal to one another as far as nutritional value goes. However, the plant-based or pork options would be my go-to since you're looking at an option without cheeses, which will help keep the SmartPoints lower.
Lotus House (China)
Most of your options here are fried. However, of the three:
Anthony and I tried all three of these and have to say they were all excellent. You only get three wontons, so it's great to split if you want to try it but are watching your calories and don't want to have too many fried options.
Because its not fried, the skewers are definitely the most healthyish of the bunch (and was actually Anthony's favorite thing that we tried all day). We got two cakes when ordering the Papas Cakes, so we each one one cake. The flavor combo was surprisingly delightful!
I would opt for the Sugar Cane Shrimp Skewer with Steamed Rice and Coconut-Lime Sauce, which sounds like a refreshing and light option in the Florida heat!
Festival Favorites (World Showplace; this is the building over near the Canadian Joffrey's coffee stand)
The lightest option here sounds like the Watermelon Salad with Pickled Onions, Feta, and Balsamic Reduction!
EPCOT Farmers Feast (World Showplace)
The Duck Confit with Carrot Purée, Roasted Root Vegetables, Rainbow Chard, and Duck Jus packs some protein and has plenty of vegetables, so I'd say this is a great option.
If you like beets (often labeled a superfood), the Off the “Beet”en Path: Profiteroles with Red Beet Mousse, Golden Beet Pastry Cream, Whipped Goat Cheese Cream, and Candied Walnuts sounds like a sweet way to sneak in some veggies.
Northern Bloom (Canada)
A fantastic and delicious way to get in your protein is with the Seared Scallops with French Green Beans, Butter Potatoes, Brown Butter Vinaigrette and Apple-wood-smoked Bacon. I'm looking forward to trying this!
Jardin de Fiestas (Mexico)
All of these options are probably fairly equal to one another as far as nutritional value goes. However, the plant-based or pork options would be my go-to since you're looking at an option without cheeses, which will help keep the SmartPoints lower.
Lotus House (China)
Most of your options here are fried. However, of the three:
- Papa Cakes: Potato Cakes filled with Shrimp and Water Chestnuts served with House-made Strawberry Sauce (new).
- Bon Bon Chicken Skewer with Sesame and Peanut Sauce.
- House-made Crab and Cheese Wontons.
Anthony and I tried all three of these and have to say they were all excellent. You only get three wontons, so it's great to split if you want to try it but are watching your calories and don't want to have too many fried options.
Because its not fried, the skewers are definitely the most healthyish of the bunch (and was actually Anthony's favorite thing that we tried all day). We got two cakes when ordering the Papas Cakes, so we each one one cake. The flavor combo was surprisingly delightful!
Bon Bon Chicken Skewer
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Papas Cakes
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Crab & Cheese Wontons
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Primavera Kitchen (Italy)
I would definitely recommend the Margherita Pizza here over the Arancini, since Arancini is fried. Also, if you want a little something sweet, their cannolis are pretty small. You get two miniature ones.
Hanami (Japan)
I absolutely love these two menu items both in terms of flavor and being great options for the calorie conscious:
I would definitely recommend the Margherita Pizza here over the Arancini, since Arancini is fried. Also, if you want a little something sweet, their cannolis are pretty small. You get two miniature ones.
Hanami (Japan)
I absolutely love these two menu items both in terms of flavor and being great options for the calorie conscious:
- Frushi: Strawberry, Pineapple, and Cantaloupe wrapped in Sweet Rice and Pink Soy Wrap served with Whipped Cream, Drizzled Berry Sauce, and Toasted Coconut.
- Shrimp and Crab with Spicy Mayonnaise and Cucumber Slices finished with Creamy Avocado and Violet Sauce (new).
Fleur de Lys (France)
Everything here is either pretty cheesy or sugary. That being said, I'd look to the Braised Duck Confit à l’Orange with Parisian Gnocchi since its packed with more protein. If you want dessert here, you can enjoy in moderation with the chocolate macaron - they come on a stick!
Everything here is either pretty cheesy or sugary. That being said, I'd look to the Braised Duck Confit à l’Orange with Parisian Gnocchi since its packed with more protein. If you want dessert here, you can enjoy in moderation with the chocolate macaron - they come on a stick!
Flower and Garden Festival runs now through July 5th. You can check out the full menu of food on Disney Parks Blog.
There are affiliate links throughout this blog post for your convenience, where I can earn a small commission. I never support a product or brand I don't personally use and enjoy, but if you'd like to learn more, you can head to this page!
Jujutsu Kaisen is one of my favorite anime out there, and it's still only on its first season. It takes some of my favorite classic shonen tropes and presents them with well-written characters, great animation, and a great balance of humor with serious moments.
We've already made Itadori Yuji's ginger chicken meatball recipe from the show, but today we're making a forbidden food from the show...
That's right! We're making Sukuna's fingers. Spoiler alert if you haven't sarted the show yet, but Itadori ate Sukuna's finger to save his friends despite the odds of it hurting him being high. So today, we're going to craft our own with hot dogs, honey glazed almonds, and bacon. This is fun to make for when you watch the show on Friday nights or to save for Halloween to creep out your friends.
We've already made Itadori Yuji's ginger chicken meatball recipe from the show, but today we're making a forbidden food from the show...
That's right! We're making Sukuna's fingers. Spoiler alert if you haven't sarted the show yet, but Itadori ate Sukuna's finger to save his friends despite the odds of it hurting him being high. So today, we're going to craft our own with hot dogs, honey glazed almonds, and bacon. This is fun to make for when you watch the show on Friday nights or to save for Halloween to creep out your friends.
ingredients
- Honey glazed almonds
- Pack of hot dogs
- If you're following Weight Watchers, you can use a turkey hot dog to lower the SmartPoints value
- Bacon
- If you're following Weight Watchers, you can use a turkey bacon to lower the SmartPoints value
instructions
- Fully cook your hot dogs and set aside.
- Cook your bacon, but remove from heat before it crisps.
- Wrap your bacon around the hot dog and add back to heat. Let bacon finish cooking so it can get a similar appearance as the finger.
- Cut a slight notch in the top to add in your almond as the nail.
the verdict
Since this is a bacon-wrapped hot dog, it tastes great - and the honey glazed almond gives a nice touch of sweetness. These are easy to make and taste great, so this gets a 10/10 - especially if you like the creepy-looking factor.
Have a food from an anime that you want me to try to recreate? Let me know in the comments below! Plus, follow me on TikTok to see the behind the scenes of how this was made.
Have a food from an anime that you want me to try to recreate? Let me know in the comments below! Plus, follow me on TikTok to see the behind the scenes of how this was made.
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Jessica is a huge Disney, anime, and Star Wars nerd who channeled that love into motivation to lose 75 lbs.
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