Ultimate Daniel Fast

You are here: Home / Archives for daniel’s fast

daniel's fast

Lentil-Vegetable Soup

By

Lentil-Vegetable Soup

Lentil-Vegetable Soup

I love soup because:
1) It’s easy to make.
2) It’s a healthy comfort food that warms you up on a cold day.
3) If you make a big pot for lunch or dinner, you don’t have to cook as much the next day or two (hooray for leftovers!).
The last benefit is probably the most important when you’re on the Daniel Fast. The less time you spend in the kitchen, the better. Then you’ll be freed up to read the Bible and pray. So, remember, when it comes to meal planning for the Daniel Fast, soup is always a wise choice. I hope you enjoy this tasty vegetable soup recipe as much as I do.
4.56 from 29 votes
Print Recipe
Course Soup
Servings 8

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup chopped zucchini
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen sweet peas
  • ½ cup chopped carrots
  • ½ cup chopped celery
  • ½ cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups Vegetable Broth or water see Recipe Notes
  • 1 14.5-ounce can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 cup dry lentils, rinsed and sorted
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/8 teaspoon pepper
  • Chopped fresh parsley, to taste

Instructions
 

  • Heat olive oil in large saucepan over medium heat. Add zucchini, peas, carrots, celery, onions, and cook until vegetables are softened. Stir in garlic, and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly so garlic doesn’t burn.
  • Pour in water, tomatoes, and lentils. Add salt, thyme, and pepper, and stir to combine. Heat to boiling, and then reduce heat. Simmer with lid slightly tilted for about 30 minutes. Sprinkle in parsley before serving.
  • Yield: 6 servings (serving size: 1 cup)

Notes

  • Feel free to substitute vegetables, depending upon your preferences. Other ideas are green beans, lima beans, parsnips, potatoes, and/or summer squash.
  • If you don’t have time to make your own Vegetable Broth, you can use a store-brought brand that’s Daniel Fast friendly. I recommend Kitchen Basics Unsalted Vegetable Stock.

 

Frozen Banana Pops

By

Banana Pops

Banana Pops

Simple. Healthy. Delicious. Banana Pops are great anytime of the year, but they're especially refreshing on a hot, summer day. Kids of all ages ─ from 2 to 92 ─ will love this frozen treat. These pops are fun to make, fun to eat, and completely Daniel Fast friendly. Enjoy!
4.75 from 4 votes
Print Recipe
Course Dessert, Snack
Servings 8
Calories 52 kcal

Equipment

  • 8 wooden popsicle sticks

Ingredients
  

  • 4 medium bananas 7-8 inches long, peeled and halved

Instructions
 

  • Line an 11 x 17-inch baking sheet with parchment or wax paper. Insert a popsicle stick into one end of every banana half. Place bananas on sheet so they’re not touching, and put in freezer. Freeze at least two hours or until firm.
  • Yield: 8 servings (serving size: one banana pop)

Notes

To add toppings, check out my Date Honey Banana Pops recipe.

Nutrition

Calories: 52kcalCarbohydrates: 13gFiber: 1.5gSugar: 7g

Date Honey Banana Pops

By

Date Honey Banana Pops

Date Honey Banana Pops

Say hello to your new favorite frozen treat on the Daniel Fast. These Banana Pops are 100% delicious and nutritious, so you don't have to feel guilty about enjoying them.
4.25 from 12 votes
Print Recipe
Course Dessert, Snack
Servings 8
Calories 156 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 8 frozen Banana Pops
  • ½ cup Date Honey
  • ½ cup chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts, etc.)
  • 2 ½ tablespoons unsweetened shredded coconut

Instructions
 

  • Once you've made the Banana Pops (follow recipe for directions) and allowed them to freeze about 2 hours, you're ready to add toppings. Remove pops from freezer. Using a butter knife, spread a thin layer of Date Honey on all sides of each banana piece.
  • Place chopped nuts and unsweetened shredded coconut on a plate. Roll banana pops in the toppings. Use your fingers to push toppings into the bananas, if necessary. Place the coated bananas on the parchment paper and freeze for 1-2 hours.
  • Yield: 8 servings (serving size: one banana pop)

Notes

Other toppings ideas are chia seeds, dried fruit, hemp seeds, nut butter, and sunflower seeds.
To cut down on the natural sugar content of this recipe, use half the amount of Date Honey.

Nutrition

Calories: 156kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 2gFat: 6gFiber: 4gSugar: 17g

 

Plantain Chips

By

Plantain Chips

Plantain Chips

I tried my first plantain a few years ago in El Salvador. I really liked the taste, along with the creamy custard that was drizzled on top.A plantain looks like a banana, but it's usually longer and has thicker skin. Although plantains are a fruit, they're generally prepared like a vegetable and are stewed, fried, boiled, mashed, or grilled.
Green plantains are yellow or pink inside and are often used in side dishes.Yellow plantains have brown or black spots and have a sweet taste and firm texture.Black plantains are soft and fully ripened.Plantains are high in vitamin A, potassium and fiber, and are low in sodium. They're also a good source of the B-complex vitamins.
If you've never had plantains, you definitely should try this simple recipe. Already a fan of this unique fruit? Now you have another way to enjoy it!
3.94 from 16 votes
Print Recipe
Course Snack
Servings 4
Calories 104 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 green plantains
  • 2 teaspoons extra-virgin coconut oil, melted
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions
 

  • Yield: 4-5 servings (serving size: about 1/2 cup)
  • Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Line an 11 x 17-inch baking sheet with parchment paper (or use a silicone mat).
  • Trim ends of plantains. Score the plantains vertically in three places without cutting through to the fruit. Remove the peel and discard, along with the trimmed ends. Cut plantains in ¼” slices (should make about 3 cups).
  • In a large bowl, add plantain chips, coconut oil, salt, and cinnamon. Stir well to coat. Place plantain chips on the baking sheet in rows. Cook 15 minutes. Flip, and then bake another 10-15 minutes. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • If the plantains are fully ripened (peel is black), they’ll be too soft to make good chips. Plantain chips do not get as crispy as potato chips.
  • You may need to remove some chips before the others are done cooking if they start to brown faster.
  • Store uneaten chips in the refrigerator in a sealed container. To reheat, place in an oven or toaster oven at 400 degrees for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition

Calories: 104kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 1gFat: 2gFiber: 2gSugar: 11g

 

Are You Ready for Easter?

By

Easter 2014 cross“Our God is a God who saves!” – Psalm 68:20 NLT

For believers, Easter Sunday is a high time of worship as we celebrate victory in Christ. But for many, Easter is nothing more than chocolate bunnies and plastic eggs. People who haven’t accepted God’s gift of salvation don’t understand why it’s such a glorious day.

That’s exactly why we must pray.

Over the next three weeks, set aside time to intercede for others, especially for unsaved family and friends to know the Lord. You might consider a Daniel Fast, water fast, or juice fast. Ask God to show you what to do.

Friend, there isn’t time to waste.  Our loved ones need our fervent prayers. Let’s press in and believe God for great things during this Easter season!

(Need guidance on how to pray? Follow my Lent 2014 Prayer Guide).

The Daniel Fast and Lent

By

Lent 2014

March 5th is Ash Wednesday, which marks the beginning of the Lenten season. Lent is a special time when the Church remembers how Jesus spent 40 days fasting in the desert before He launched His public ministry. Although mostly observed by Roman Catholics, Lutherans, Methodists, and Presbyterians, Lent is becoming increasingly popular among evangelicals and other denominations. (SIGN UP HERE to receive your Lent 2014 Prayer Guide).

The purpose of Lent is to reflect on Jesus Christ — his life, death, burial, and resurrection. Typically, people abstain from meat during Lent and may also give up other vices, such as sweets, television, or Facebook. Many believers also participate in a Daniel Fast.

The Daniel Fast is a 21-day partial fast based upon the prophet Daniel’s experiences in the Bible. The purpose of the fast is to restrict commonly enjoyed foods as an act of worship and consecration to God (see Food Guidelines). On one occasion, Daniel was greatly concerned for his people and sought the Lord’s wisdom during a time of prayer and fasting. Daniel 10:2-3 says, “At that time I, Daniel, mourned for three weeks. I ate no choice food; no meat or wine touched my lips.” The meaning of “choice food” is not clear; however, most commentaries conclude that he ate no bread or sweets. The Message translation sums up Daniel’s eating habits during that time: “I ate only plain and simple food.” The idea behind the fast is not to duplicate Daniel’s menu but to imitate his spiritual hunger. Daniel’s passion for the Lord caused him to seek spiritual food rather than physical food, which should be the desire for anyone doing the Daniel Fast.

How will you prepare for Easter Sunday? Consider doing the Daniel Fast as you celebrate what the Lord has done for you!

Peachy Keen Smoothie

By

Peachy Keen Smoothie

Peachy Keen Smoothie

I like smoothies, especially green ones. When I made Peachy Keen for the first time, I loved it. But, I decided to get my husband's opinion before posting the recipe. Justin is not a big fan of weird-colored drinks. He's more of a Strawberry-Banana Smoothie kind of guy.
Justin's first comment was, "It doesn't taste like it looks." (In other words, I'm surprised it tastes so great because of the color! ) Then, after a few more gulps, he said, "This is excellent, babe!" If my husband approves, I know you will, too.
4.34 from 9 votes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Breakfast, Drinks, Snack
Servings 2
Calories 151 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsweetened non-dairy milk (almond, coconut, rice, soy or water)
  • 1 cup sliced fresh or frozen banana, peeled (about 1 medium banana)
  • 1 cup sliced fresh or frozen peaches
  • 1 cup fresh spinach or kale leaves
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped walnuts (about ½ ounce)
  • 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal, optional

Instructions
 

  • Place all ingredients in a blender, and process until smooth.
  • Yield: 2 servings (serving size: about 8 ounces or 1 cup)

Video

Notes

  • If your smoothie is too thick, add a little more non-dairy milk or water.
  • Make sure either the banana or peaches are frozen so your smoothie is chilled.
  • To freeze bananas, remove peels before placing in freezer. Put in a plastic zip-top bag until completely frozen.
  • Flaxseed meal is a powder made from ground flaxseeds. It's high in fiber and a good source of Omega-3 fatty acids.

Nutrition

Calories: 151kcalCarbohydrates: 22gProtein: 4gFat: 8gFiber: 5gSugar: 11g

Stay Free

By

stay free, free in Christ

“It is for freedom that Christ has set us free.” – Galatians 5:1a

A few years ago I went to prison. Not as an inmate, but as a guest on a tour. The whole experience was awkward and unsettling. Although it was an interesting experience, I was relieved when the tour was completed. As soon as we exited the building, I took a deep breath, thankful for fresh air. Thankful to be free.

However, there was a time when I was locked up behind steel bars, just like those men. But, one day – June 3, 1979, to be exact – I was set free! The chains that held me were broken, and I was released. God forgave my sin and granted me eternal life in him!

You would think that after leaving that dark, lonely place, I would never ever be tempted to return. But I have been. And I am. Perhaps you can relate. Negative thought patterns. Idolatry. Fits of anger. Lies, pride, lust, and envy. A few steps here and there in the wrong direction and soon the feet are shackled once again.

Friend, this is not what God has for us! Jesus’ death and resurrection severed our bondage forever. He freed us from the control of sin, enabling us to live through the power of the Holy Spirit. However, it’s entirely possible for one set free to return to captivity. That’s why the apostle Paul said, “Make sure that you stay free, and don’t get tied up again in slavery” (Galatians 5:1b NLT). How do we stay free? By believing God’s commands. By refusing to listen to the lies of the enemy. By trusting in the Lord and leaning on his strength.

If you’re praying for victory over a particular sin, you need to know something: You already have it! Walk right out of your prison cell now. Hold your head up high and declare, “I will walk in freedom!” (Psalm 119:45) Remember, you’re no longer a slave to sin, you’re a slave to righteousness! Jesus Christ has set you free. Therefore, make every effort to stay free!

Top 10 Snacks for Super Bowl Sunday

By

Super Easy Guacamole, Daniel Fast snack, guacamole recipe

In three days, thousands of Americans will gather to watch the biggest sporting event of the year. That’s right, friends. It’s Super Bowl time!

Next to Thanksgiving, Super Bowl Sunday ranks as the #1 day for food consumption. The big game is as much about the snacks as it is about the sport. It’s pizza and hot wings. Chips and dip. Chex Mix and cookies. For someone on the Daniel Fast, though, this type of setting presents a huge challenge. If you can’t have meat, dairy products, sugar, or caffeine, what can you eat on Super Bowl Sunday? Plenty, if you refer to the tasty recipes on my website.

Following are the Ultimate Daniel Fast’s Top 10 Super Bowl Snacks:

 1. Almond Butter Bites
 2. Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
 3. Salsa
 4. Spinach-Artichoke Dip
 5. Super Easy Guacamole
 6. Fruit Pizza
 7. Sweet & Spicy Mixed Nuts
 8. Date Honey
 9. Confetti Hummus
10. Grilled Veggie Kebabs

Which one (or two) will you take to your Super Bowl Party?

Strawberry Fields Smoothie

By

 

Strawberry Fields Smoothie

Strawberry Fields Smoothie

A refreshing smoothie that combines the sweetness of fruit with the power-packed nutrition of leafy greens. This drink is packed with vitamins and minerals to jump start your day or provide an afternoon energy boost.
4.34 from 6 votes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Breakfast, Drinks, Snack
Servings 2
Calories 133 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk, coconut milk, rice milk, or soy milk
  • 1 cup sliced fresh or frozen banana, peeled (about 1 medium banana)
  • 1 cup sliced fresh or frozen strawberries
  • 1 cup fresh mixed greens, spinach, kale leaves, chard, etc.
  • 2 tablespoons flaxseed meal, optional

Instructions
 

  • Place all ingredients in a blender, and process until smooth.
  • Yield: 2 servings (serving size: about 8 ounces or 1 cup)

Video

Notes

  • Substitute water in place of non-dairy milk (or half of it).
  • Make sure either the banana or strawberries are frozen so your smoothie is chilled.
  • To freeze bananas, remove peels before placing in freezer. Put in a plastic zip-top bag until completely frozen.
  • Flaxseed meal is a powder made from ground flaxseeds. It's high in fiber and a good source of Omega 3 fatty acids.

Nutrition

Calories: 133kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 3gFat: 4gFiber: 5gSugar: 9g

 

January 2014 Online Daniel Fast

By

Press On.

Do you know the Lord?

I’m not asking, “Do you go to church?” Or, “Do you believe in God?” Or even, “Have you been saved?” What I mean is, “Do you know the Lord personally?” Are you familiar with His character – his love, his mercy, and his grace?

The apostle Paul certainly was, and yet his greatest passion in life was to grow in his knowledge of the Lord and His ways. Paul said, “I want to know Christ and experience the mighty power that raised him from the dead” (Philippians 3:10 NLT).

Is that your desire as well? It definitely is mine. That’s why every January I begin the New Year with prayer and fasting.

Will you join me next month? Will you partner with thousands of believers around the world by participating in the Daniel Fast January 5-25, 2014? If so, I challenge you to make two commitments:

1) Sign up for the “Press On” January 2014 Online Daniel Fast through my website. You’ll receive a daily email from me, which will include recipe ideas and fasting tips. Registration for the fast has ended.

2) Invite people to participate. Post about the Daniel Fast on Twitter or Facebook. Share the “Press On” promotional video. If you have a blog, write about the fast. Get other people in your life excited about seeking God!

2014 is going to be a spectacular year. God offers a multitude of blessings to those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. Don’t stay where you are with Jesus. Press on to know Him!

(Be sure to get your copy of The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast to help you on your journey!)

Coconut-Date Cookies

By

Coconut-Date Cookies

Coconut-Date Cookies

The best part about this recipe is you can enjoy it and not feel guilty. Every ingredient is Daniel Fast friendly and good for you!
3.73 from 55 votes
Print Recipe
Course Dessert, Snack
Servings 14

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup unsweetened applesauce
  • ½ cup unsweetened coconut milk
  • ½ cup coconut flour
  • ½ cup roughly chopped dates
  • ¼ cup Date Honey
  • ¼ cup chopped almonds
  • ¼ cup chopped walnuts

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
  • Place all ingredients in a large bowl, and stir well. Scoop out 1 generous tablespoon of dough and shape into a ball. Place on an 11 x 17-inch cookie sheet lined with a silicone mat. Flatten slightly. Repeat with remaining dough.
  • Bake 15-20 minutes or until slightly browned on the bottom.
  • Yield: 14 servings (serving size: about 1 cookie)

Notes

  • Use sliced almonds instead of chopped almonds.
  • Substitute coconut flour with almond flour, brown rice flour, or any whole grain flour.