vitamin e coconut oil

COCONUT CHICKPEA CURRY

This coconut chickpea curry is the perfect weeknight dinner—tasty, comforting, and full of flavor. Made with simple pantry staples, it comes together in under 30 minutes for a quick and satisfying meal.

INGREDIENTS

  • 2 tablespoons oil (avocado oil recommended)
  • ½ medium yellow onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½-inch piece of ginger, minced
  • 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely diced
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
  • ½ teaspoon ground paprika
  • Pinch of cayenne (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 (15 oz) cans chickpeas, rinsed and drained
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 can full-fat coconut milk
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS

  • Cook the aromatics: In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-low. Add the diced onion, garlic, and ginger. Sauté, stirring often, until the onion turns translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
  • Add the spices: Stir in the jalapeño, cumin, turmeric, paprika, cayenne (if using), salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute until the spices become aromatic.
  • Add the remaining ingredients: Stir in the chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and coconut milk. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook uncovered for about 20 minutes, or until the chickpeas are tender.
  • Finish with lime and cilantro: Once done, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the lime juice and fresh cilantro, if using.
  • Serve and store: Enjoy the curry right away or allow it to cool completely before storing in an airtight container for later.

NUTRITION (PER SERVING)

  • Calories: 312 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Protein: 9g
  • Fat: 21g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Sodium: 817mg
  • Potassium: 388mg
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Vitamin A: 130 IU
  • Vitamin C: 8mg
  • Calcium: 73mg
  • Iron: 4mg

CARROT AND COCONUT OIL FACE MASK

Have you ever considered blending carrots, adding a touch of coconut oil, and applying it as a face mask? If not, keep reading to discover how to create a nourishing carrot and coconut oil mask!

Carrots and coconut oil aren’t just great for eating—they’re packed with skin-loving nutrients that can work wonders on your complexion. Both of these natural ingredients are rich in vitamins and minerals, making them perfect for a DIY beauty treatment.

I’ll admit, the idea for this mask didn’t come from me originally. A few years ago, I had a conversation with one of my aunts, and she shared that she used steamed carrots mixed with coconut oil as a homemade facial mask. Curious, I tried it myself—and absolutely loved it! Since carrots and coconut oil are staples in my kitchen, it was super convenient to add this mask to my regular skincare routine.

Ingredients: 

How to make Carrot and Coconut Oil Face Mask

  • Chop the Carrot: Roughly chop the carrot into about 5 pieces.
  • Steam the Carrot: Bring about an inch of water to a boil in a saucepan. Add the chopped carrots, reduce the heat to low, cover, and steam for 8-10 minutes until soft.
  • Blend the Mixture: Drain the water and transfer the carrots to a food processor or blender. Add coconut oil and blend until smooth, creating a puree.
  • Apply the Mask: Gently apply the carrot and coconut oil mixture to your clean face, avoiding the eyes and mouth. Let the mask sit for 15-20 minutes.
  • Entertainment Break: While you wait, why not channel your inner character from The Simpsons? It’ll make the time pass more enjoyably. 🍩
  • Rinse Off: Wash your face with warm water, using a washcloth to gently remove any remaining bits.
  • Moisturize: If needed, apply a little coconut or olive oil for extra hydration.

    TIPS:

    • Sensitive Skin: If you have sensitive skin, do a patch test on a small area first to make sure you’re not allergic to any ingredients.
    • Storage: If you have leftovers, you can store the mixture in the fridge for a couple of days, but it’s best to use it fresh for maximum benefits.

    CONCLUSION

    In conclusion, the Carrot and Coconut Oil Face Mask is an easy and natural way to nourish and hydrate your skin. The combination of carrots, rich in beta-carotene and antioxidants, and coconut oil, known for its moisturizing properties, can help improve skin texture, promote a healthy glow, and provide deep hydration. This DIY mask is simple to make, using ingredients you may already have at home, and offers a gentle, affordable skincare treatment.

    For the best results, remember to follow up with your favorite moisturizer after rinsing off the mask to lock in all the nourishment. Whether you’re looking for a quick skin boost or a relaxing self-care session, this face mask is a great addition to your beauty routine!