Carrot Soup with Crispy Chickpeas

Once in a while you come across one of those recipes that the pictures look amazing but the actual recipe sounds kind of questionable. I came across this recipe at Smitten Kitchen when searching for some good fall recipes to try out. I didn't think the recipe sounding too appealing but the pictures were so pretty, I had to give it a try.

Although there are multitude of subtle flavors in this soup, the fresh carrot taste is what shined. Paired with some creme fraiche and pita bread, it was a perfect end of summer meal.

Carrot Cake Pancakes

Yesterday was one of those abnormally chilly days. I spent the day with multiple cups of hot tea and a good book, Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen. Something about masturbating dwarfs caught my attention and well, yeah, I sat cuddled up on the couch all day with it. I suggest reading it, I haven't seen the movie yet but I bet they leave out the masturbating dwarf.....

Anywho, this morning's breakfast was one of those recipes I found on some blog site, several years ago and like to make every few months. It's healthy and yummy. Well at least it was healthy until I smothered it in maple syrup.

Carrot Cake Pancakes

(upon a few minutes of searching, I have not been able to remember where I got the recipe, but I'm fairly certain I got it from somebody who got it from Joy The Baker, however I cannot find the recipe on her blog. :/ )

1/2 C All-Purpose Flour

1/2 C Whole Wheat Flour

1 tsp Baking Powder

1/2 tsp Baking Soda

1 tsp Ground Cinnamon

1/2 tsp Ground Nutmeg

1 Egg

1 C Buttermilk

1/3 C Raisins

1/2 C Finely Grated Carrot

1/4 C Chopped Pecans

In a medium bowl, mix together dry ingredients. Stir in egg and buttermilk.

Fold in raisins, carrots, and pecans.

**Note: Plump, juicy raisins are a must. If your raisins look and feel like rocks cover them with water, stick them in the microwave for a minute or so until the water heats up and then let them set for 10 minutes or so until they are soft.**

Allow the batter to rest for 10-15 minutes, or over night works well too, fry in a lightly greased skillet or on a griddle.

Serves 2-3 people. I get about 6 pancakes that measure approx. 5 inches.