Thirty Second Thursday: By Candlelight

This evening started quite differently than expected. While still six blocks from home on my bike commute, I notice a blanket of darkness descend - no porch lights, no streetlamps, no remnant Christmas cheer. The day had not been particularly blustery. No seismic activity had occurred. For what possible reason could there be a power outage? (I still don't know the answer). But that is what greeted me as I climbed the steps up to the house.

Despite my slight preoccupation with the possible spoilage of pounds of frozen fruit, I actually quite enjoyed my candlelit evening. I did not need the internet to entertain myself, and felt no strong desire to stay awake until I could barely keep my eyelid open. While letting the gas stove do its magic (thanking my lucky starts!), I could pour over a newspaper - yes, the answer to "what's black and white and read all over" (they still do print these things)! What was cooking over the stove, you ask? Well, I believe Donkey from Shrek describes my ultimate creation best:

"You know what ELSE everybody likes? Parfaits! Have you ever met a person, you say, "Let's get some parfait," they say, "Hell no, I don't like no parfait"? Parfaits are delicious!" - Donkey, Shrek I

Apple Pecan Pie Parfait (2 servings)
2 small apples, cubed
1/4 cup water
10 drops of vanilla stevia
1-2 tsp agave nectar (optional)
2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp all-spice
1 tbs tapioca starch

1 cup plain or vanilla non-dairy yogurt
1/2 cup chopped pecans (toasted or raw)

1. Heat water, apples, and tapioca starch over medium-high heat until water comes to boiling.
2. Lower to medium. Add sweetener and spices. Continue to cook until apples have softened and thickened to a sauce.
3. Layer apples, pecans, and then yogurt in a glass. Repeat. Enjoy!

Indulge slightly more on Simply Sugar and Gluten Free!