Oh Hi There!
I’m Yasmeen Ali, a food blogger, content creator, recipe developer and dog mom dedicated to helping 20-somethings learn how to master the kitchen. Munching with Mariyah is a blog where you’ll find comforting and nourishing recipes that make you feel good. From spicy salad bowls, ooey gooey desserts, how-to guides, etc. I can promise that there is something for everyone here. And yes, ‘Mariyah’ is my middle name!
My philosophy around food is twofold – and super simple! Everything in moderation and mostly plants.
I believe that if you approach food in a peaceful and non-judgmental way, your diet can encompass all foods. There is a place for those candy bars and chips – trust me!
And if you think that I believe eating only plant-based is the best way to eat, you’d be wrong. Meat, eggs and dairy is super nutritious and amazing.
However, there is a caveat for me. These foods should be enjoyed in smaller quantities than plants. Additionally, it’s important to source meats and dairy from farmers that are treating the animals with the respect, comfort and safety they deserve. This is obviously hard to accomplish in this era, which is why I choose to eat primarily plant-based.
It is my hope that my recipes will inspire you to continue to eat more plants or inspire you to eat more plants than you already do. Additionally, I try to avoid including calories and nutrients in my recipes for the sole sake of not breaking food down into rigid boxes of micro and macro nutrients. Because food is so much more than just calories!
Food is more than just sustenance. It’s a way to socialize, make memories and have fun!
Fun Facts!
- I learned everything I know now from my mom. We used to spend every Friday afternoon when I was young, in the kitchen trying new recipes together.
- I swam competitively for almost 10 years and spent most of my weekend from 10 years old to 18 years old at swim meets.
- I’m a mixed bag of ethnicities, with Indian, Moroccan and Yemeni influences from my dad, and Irish influence from my mom.
- I was born in Southern California, but have moved around a ton, living in Austin TX for six years, and spending almost three years in Miami FL, before eventually moving back to Northern California.
- I have waffles every weekend (and I mean every weekend).
- I’m obsessed with nature and love hiking, skiing and almost anything outdoors.
- My favorite food is biryani and my favorite drink is matcha.
Favorite Recipes…
Ok ok, this is really hard to pick just a few favorites because I loveeee everything on this blog. But these Chocolate Rice Krispies are a favorite of mine. And once you make those you have to try out these Classic Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies. Oh and these Marinated Butter Beans, Creamy Pesto Pasta and Roasted Red Pepper Salad are three of my top savory recipes I make every week.
