Hi there, Reader

It's that time of the month again! I don't think I sent one of these emails last month because Chester hurt himself (more on that below), but gosh, hasn't it been an eventful (not in a good way) start to the year? 🥺 It feels like the world is falling apart around our ears, and I hope you're doing ok.

Shared with permission from Donna Ashworth. It seems fitting for the moment! Her latest book of poetry, Wild Hope - Healing Words to Find Light on Dark Days, is beautiful and full of many more gems like this!

Chester partially tore his ACL at the end of last month. The emergency vet decided to try treating it conservatively so we've had a month of pain killers, anti-inflammatories, and complete rest.

He might be 10, but he's a very active dog, so it's been challenging to say the least. All seemed to be going well until yesterday when he suddenly couldn't put any weight on it again. I have a feeling he's going to need surgery, but we'll find out for sure once he's seen our vet. Poor guy!

Now, let's get back to business and take a look at January's highlights on AVV!

FEBRUARY'S MOST POPULAR RECIPE 🏆

A large pot filled with creamy, orange-colored chickpea curry with visible green herbs and sun-dried tomatoes. A wooden spoon rests inside the pot, suggesting the dish is freshly prepared. Next to the pot is a bowl containing mashed potatoes seasoned with black pepper. The scene is set on a wooden surface with a beige napkin in view.

MARRY ME CHICKPEAS

It's very unusual for a brand new recipe to be more popular than old and established favorites, but these Marry Me Chickpeas have been on fire since I published the recipe 2 weeks ago. It makes me very happy that you love them. If you haven't tried the recipe yet, get on it!

RECIPES PUBLISHED/UPDATED IN FEBRUARY 🏆

(in case you missed them the 1st time around)

⭐️ FAVE READER REVIEWS ⭐️

For a chance to have your comment featured, rate & leave feedback on the recipes you love on my website!

VEGAN SCRAMBLED EGGS

"Absolutely perfect! Got to be the best version I have ever tried -10/10 so much like the real thing but tastes better. I can't imagine anyone disliking this recipe Thank you Mel :)" ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️" - Angie.

RISI E BISI

"OMG! Made this tonight, exactly as written, and it was an absolute 10! " ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️" - Pam.

INSTANT POT RED LENTIL SOUP

"Soup is slammin'!!!! Delish!!!! Thanks sooo much for the masterful recipe!!" ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️" - Sara.

TAHINI BANANA BREAD

"You are my go-to site for vegan muffins/quick breads! I was nervous to try banana bread with tahini, and I am so glad I made this. The tahini adds such a nice flavor and richness to the bread--I will definitely make again (and so easy too!)" ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️" - Tanisha.

THIS MONTH'S 5⭐️ READS 📖

(Book links are affiliate links which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase via them).

These are my 5-star reads this month (if you didn't know I'm a huge bookworm!):

Beautiful Ugly by Alice Feeney
Hope - How Street Dogs Taught Me the Meaning Of Life by Niall Harbison.
The Wedding People by Alison Espach

HERE'S WHAT YOU'VE BEEN COOKING 🧑🏻‍🍳

I love seeing my recipes in your kitchens! Share your photos on Instagram or Facebook (tag me @avirtualvegan)!

Instant Pot Black Bean Soup from Stephanie.

English Muffins from Nancy

Braised Beans & Greens from Renee.

LOOKING AHEAD TO MARCH 🔮

I've been working on my first digital product (an E-cookbook) that is currently in the hands of a fabulous designer. She thinks it will be ready by the end of March, but more details will come once I know for sure!
March 4th is Pancake Day! My English Pancake recipe always goes absolutely bonkers. Get a head start by getting the ingredients ready now!
Mark your calendar for St. Patrick's Day on the 17th. I have the perfect Irish Stew recipe!

Until next time, friends

Mel x

P.S. Loving my recipes & these emails? Buy me a coffee to say thanks!

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