By Dr. Janet Seabrook
The month of February is dedicated to heart health, and rightfully so, as heart disease continues to be a number one killer in communities of color. By now, those who read my articles know that I am a big proponent of getting your annual screenings and securing a health advocate who stays abreast of your appointments, medication, diet, etc.
In addition, regular exercise and healthy eating are always beneficial to the heart. Load up on fruits and vegetables, drink plenty of water, and consume foods low in sodium, fat, and cholesterol.
Lastly, I am excited to share a heart-healthy recipe straight from the pages of my cookbook “Cooking with the Doc.” (Available on Amazon) The ingredients are simple, and it is a fun way to bring the family together in the name of good heart health.
I look forward to hearing about how your cooking adventures turn out!
Quinoa/Brown Rice Thai Chicken Bowl:
4 cups of cooked quinoa or brown rice
2 cups of cooked chicken strips (optional)
1 cup of black beans
1 cup of cooked fresh corn
2/3 cup of cooked fresh diced carrots
2/3 cup green onions (for garnish)
1/2 cup of sliced red onions
1 plum tomato diced
1 avocado sliced
1/4 cup of chopped cilantro (optional)
1-2 lime slices
Sauce
4 tablespoons of mild chili sauce or low sodium teriyaki sauce
Juice of one lime
2 tablespoons of rice vinegar
1/4 teaspoon of grated fresh ginger (optional)
1 garlic glove minced (optional)
Instructions
Place the following in an individual bowl for serving.
Place 1/2-1 cup of the cooked brown rice or quinoa in the bowl. Arrange 1/2 cup of the cooked chicken strips to the bowl. Add 1/4 cups of the black beans, sliced red onions, diced tomatoes, and avocado.
Squeeze the lime slices over the arrangement, pour a portion of the sauce over the ingredients in the bowl. Top with the cilantro and green onions for garnish.
Dr. Janet Seabrook is the CEO of Community HealthNet Health Centers and the Health Commissioner for the City of Gary. Follow her on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn and visit www.DrJanetSeabrook.com.