Hello, I'm Krystal. I'm from Texas. I am and have been a vegetarian that "bends" the rules sometimes, with fish and things, but I would really like to go completely raw. My only problem is being a student I am pretty broke. Plus it is hard to find raw ingredients in local super markets. Any suggestions. peace everyone! :]

Shop often to get produce on special - like bananas that are spotted (they're really ripe and better than hard and green anyway). I go to a shop that sells only produce in town and recently found six pomegranates for the price of one! I don't buy them at the higher price, so that was a real find. Another store puts older bagged lettuce on sale for one-third off when new supplies arrive. Is there a farmer's market near you? They often have good prices. Roadside stands are also great. Do you know anyone with fruit trees? Maybe you could trade a service for some fruit.

Being a student you probably don't have space for a garden, but you could make your own sprouts. They are very nutritious and delicious. And they're MUCH cheaper that way. Check out www.sproutpeople.com for ideas of things you can sprout. I go to a bulk bin store for seeds and nuts.

Lately I have been making my own flax crackers with flax seeds I buy in bulk. I use a regular oven because I don't own a dehydrator. They are sooooo tasty and very easy to make. Mix equal amounts of flax seeds and water and let it sit for a couple of hours. The seeds plump make a gooeyness that will hold the seeds together when they dry. I add Bragg's to season the flaxseed/water mixture, although some folks don't consider Bragg's raw. You could use other herbs, I suppose. I spread it out thinly on wax paper (since I don't have any teflex sheets either). Turn on the oven at the lowest possible heat setting. Lay the flax-covered waxed paper sheets on the oven racks and leave the door partially open. They'll be firm in a few hours.

Good luck with your studies and raw food, Krystal!


My favorite raw vegan

im not sure where you are a student but most university/college areas have some sort of community gardens in the works. growing yoour own or helping with a co-op can greatly offset costs for you

where abouts in texas are you? I might be able to dig up some hotspots for you

...Jodi, the banana eating buddhist