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Thrive Energy Cookbook: 150 Plant-Based Whole Food Recipes
Packed with 150 plant-based, nutrient-dense, whole food recipes developed within the Thrive nutritional philosophy, Thrive Energy Cookbook brings concepts that started the functional, plant-based nutrition revolution to life. Recipes are all vegan and allergen-free (or with gluten-free options) to eliminate wheat, yeast, gluten, soy, refined sugar, and dairy from your diet.
Easy-to-make and performance-enhancing, these chef-created recipes merge purpose driven functionality (every ingredient has a nutritional purpose) with mouth-watering appeal. From the alkaline-forming, plant protein–packed Vanilla-Almond-Mocha Motivator Smoothie to Roasted Red Pepper & Sweet Potato Soup, Thai Green Curry Rice Bowl, and desserts such as Raspberry Chocolate Pomegranate Tart, Thrive Energy Cookbook will have you quickly preparing nutrient-packed and delicious dishes.
Easy-to-make and performance-enhancing, these chef-created recipes merge purpose driven functionality (every ingredient has a nutritional purpose) with mouth-watering appeal. From the alkaline-forming, plant protein–packed Vanilla-Almond-Mocha Motivator Smoothie to Roasted Red Pepper & Sweet Potato Soup, Thai Green Curry Rice Bowl, and desserts such as Raspberry Chocolate Pomegranate Tart, Thrive Energy Cookbook will have you quickly preparing nutrient-packed and delicious dishes.
320 pages, Paperback
First published February 11, 2014
59 people are currently reading
687 people want to read
About the author
Brendan Brazier
19 books133 followersBest-selling author (The Thrive Diet, Penguin 2007) and professional Ironman triathlete, Brendan Brazier is the founder and creator of a raw, organic, whole food health optimizer nutritional porduct called Vega.
As one of the only professional athletes in the world with a solely plant-based diet, Brendan advocates the benefits of plant-based foods for both environmental and physical wellbeing. He was chosen as one of the 25 Most Influential Vegetarians by VegNews Magazine, the Top 40 Under 40most influential people in the health industry by Natural Food Merchandiser and has been nominated for the prestigious Manning Innovation Award twice for creating VEGA, his environmentally friendly and ultra-healthy line of natural food products made from plant-based superfoods. He modeled his products after the meals and snacks he made himself everyday, which were the key to his success as a professional vegan Ironman triathlete.
Brazier’s intentions of spreading the news on an ethical, environmentally friendly, and healthy lifestyle through plant-based foods have taken him across North America, speaking at events such as the Chicago Green Festival and to audiences such as the United States Congress. Brendan was also invited to speak at the 2008 Democratic Convention.
Among Brazier’s other achievements are his active involvement with healthy, ethical, and environmental initiatives such as a new exploratory adventure movie on health and wellness, ‘Back from the Edge’, and a photo feature alongside the likes of Barack Obama and Bill Maher in the Charity book ‘A Rare Breed of Love’ (Simon & Schuster) recently featured by Oprah Winfrey. brendanbrazier.com thrivediet.com myvega.com
As one of the only professional athletes in the world with a solely plant-based diet, Brendan advocates the benefits of plant-based foods for both environmental and physical wellbeing. He was chosen as one of the 25 Most Influential Vegetarians by VegNews Magazine, the Top 40 Under 40most influential people in the health industry by Natural Food Merchandiser and has been nominated for the prestigious Manning Innovation Award twice for creating VEGA, his environmentally friendly and ultra-healthy line of natural food products made from plant-based superfoods. He modeled his products after the meals and snacks he made himself everyday, which were the key to his success as a professional vegan Ironman triathlete.
Brazier’s intentions of spreading the news on an ethical, environmentally friendly, and healthy lifestyle through plant-based foods have taken him across North America, speaking at events such as the Chicago Green Festival and to audiences such as the United States Congress. Brendan was also invited to speak at the 2008 Democratic Convention.
Among Brazier’s other achievements are his active involvement with healthy, ethical, and environmental initiatives such as a new exploratory adventure movie on health and wellness, ‘Back from the Edge’, and a photo feature alongside the likes of Barack Obama and Bill Maher in the Charity book ‘A Rare Breed of Love’ (Simon & Schuster) recently featured by Oprah Winfrey. brendanbrazier.com thrivediet.com myvega.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
March 9, 2014
Thrive Energy Cookbook is a follow up to Brendan Brazier’s The Thrive Diet. This cookbook is all about ‘purpose-driven, clean, plant-based nutrition.’ The introduction describes Brazier’s approach to nutrition and fitness. He explains that the recipes are functional, meaning each ingredient has a specific nutritional purpose. The first section of the cookbook is THRIVE ENERGY PANTRY. In this section, he lists and describes the staples used in the Thrive diet. The next section, BASICS, includes milks, cheeses, and butters. MORNINGS obviously contains recipes for getting your day started. They are heavy in oats, fruit, and chia seeds. The remaining sections are APPETIZERS, SIDES, SAUCES & DIPS; SANDWICHES, WRAPS, & BURGERS; SOUPS; SALAD BOWLS & DRESSINGS; RICE & NOODLE BOWLS; SMOOTHIES, FRESH JUICES & WARM DRINKS; and DESSERTS. The last part of the book is Thrive Sport Recipes. This section is for athletes and offers recipes to help your body prepare, sustain, and recover from workouts. Before each recipe, Brazier explains how it works with your body. Brazier’s recipes use a lot of dates, avocados, and Asian flavors. I also noticed that several called for mixes, and I don’t think I’d be able to get them anywhere around where I live. For athletes focused on nutrition, this is a great cookbook. The information in the introduction is useful for anyone, but most of the recipes take some dedication. I’d definitely recommend this book to driven athletes, nutrition-minded individuals, and people who already avoid meat and dairy. [I received a digital copy of this title in exchange for an honest review.]
January 4, 2015
What I liked about this cookbook is the fabulous explanations of each of the grains. For instance, I had not known that buckwheat has no wheat in it; it is a part of the rhubarb family. I also liked the fact that it includes an explanation of how food translates into energy in the body...or lack thereof. No wonder good greens in a salad give rather than take away energy. Brendan Brazier does explain that this cookbook is a "transitional cookbook for people on their way to cleaner eating." Thus, he used coconut, grapes, extra virgin olive oil, hemp seed oil or flax seed oil in his recipes. As I am moving further and further away from using oils at all while I cook (ala McDougall's approach), it is doubtful that I will purchase this particular cookbook even though all of the recipes are at their basis healthy. I love the fabulous pictures of the ingredients as well as the final products once the recipes are made. This is a book well worth purchasing if someone isn't wanting to eliminate added oils from their diet.
February 4, 2014
"An arc was kindly provided by Perseus Book Group, Da Capo Press via Netgalley for an honest review"
Wonderful, insightful, really well written and illustrated!
I learned so much while reading this cookbook.
This isn't just a cookbook, but a very effective tool for healthy living.
The recipes use ingredients common in most kitchens, are easy to prepare, and very tasty.
I will definitely be using and recommending this cookbook.
December 13, 2021
Beautiful photography, recipes are a bit dull unfortunately. But a pleasure to look at! I have put this book in the Little Free Library, because if I don't use it for the recipes, it just takes up space in my small apartment. It's more of an inspirational book in my opinion.
April 25, 2014
Lots of things that look good and sound good, except that I'd have to go all over creation to find the ingredients. You can't just stroll into the store and buy this stuff. 90% of the recipes contain ingredients that aren't easily available. And not easily available means expensive, plus my time and gas to go track them down.
Also a little to much processed crap, if it's gong to be a health book. I've read the label on Daiya, which he recommends, and have no idea what's in it. At least on real cheese, I understand the word milk.
Also a little to much processed crap, if it's gong to be a health book. I've read the label on Daiya, which he recommends, and have no idea what's in it. At least on real cheese, I understand the word milk.
December 28, 2014
I have been following Brendan's work for years as I have tried to incorporate more veggies in my diet.
Pros:
1. love the photos
2. some great recipes
Cons:
1. too many recipes rely on ingredients that a new-by vegan/plant based person is not going to go buy
2. some techniques too complicated
3. way to many product placements and relying on pre-packaged items
I will continue to read all his materials. Just don't believe this is BB's best work.
Pros:
1. love the photos
2. some great recipes
Cons:
1. too many recipes rely on ingredients that a new-by vegan/plant based person is not going to go buy
2. some techniques too complicated
3. way to many product placements and relying on pre-packaged items
I will continue to read all his materials. Just don't believe this is BB's best work.
February 28, 2014
A waste of paper
Very disappointing, previous books were excellent. If I read "I eat Silver Hills bread" on one more page....it's clear he was corporate endorsed. Many if the recipes rely on prepackaged, highly produced products.
Very disappointing, previous books were excellent. If I read "I eat Silver Hills bread" on one more page....it's clear he was corporate endorsed. Many if the recipes rely on prepackaged, highly produced products.
February 28, 2019
I love all the ideas and his vegan food pyramid. However, most of the recipes require a ton of ingredients. As a long term vegan, there are many other cookbooks that provide nutritiously valid recipes and much few ingredients. Also, I follow his recipe for bars to a T and they NEVER turn out right.
February 9, 2020
I liked previous books by Brendan Brazier, but this is an embarrassment to cookbooks. The ‘recipes’ use brand name pre packaged foods, such as a particular brand of aoili that he uses as a base in most of the sauce ‘recipes’. Not sure how much they paid him, but these should be free recipes on the companies websites, not in a cookbook people pay for.
December 9, 2018
Yum. Everything we've made from this book has been delicious and makes us feel great and well-fueled. The chipotle corn chowder is in the heavy rotation, as are the big green salad and big green sandwich. Can't wait to try every recipe.
May 19, 2017
Although this book is visually pleasing and had about 20 different juice recipes, I didn't find anything that I actually want to make. Ingredients also seemed hard to find.
January 9, 2019
This is a gorgeous book with some wonderful recipes, but I disagree with some of the things posited (use of oils, "complete protein" idea). Take it for what you need.
April 1, 2019
A lot of the recipes were not ones I would normally eat and I only saved one.
September 13, 2020
A great read. Great book for health, great book for athletes. Particularly liked the array of healthy drinks.
July 24, 2014
More reviews (and no fluff) on the blog http://surrealtalvi.wordpress.com/
The Thrive energy cookbook focuses on recipes that create "cost free energy" - easy to digest but with all the nutrients needed for peak physical fitness, lowered stress, and to have energy throughout the day (rather than highs and lows from processed food).
The recipes break down into: transition (for those who are starting a Thrive diet and more accustomed to traditional eating patterns/foods), Raw (recipes where the ingredients haven't been heated above 118f), gluten free, protein rich, and super nutrient dense (number of calories in relation to the nutrients).
The book details staples - the items every pantry should have available as a basis for many recipes. Those pages are color coded for easy reference. They includes discussions on oils, vinegars, nuts, rice, wheats, beans, and more. Also included (and with color coded pages) are recipes for other staples.
The book has 150 plant based whole food recipes. They are ordered by morning, appetizers, sandwiches, soupls, salads, rice and noodles, smoothies, deserts, and sports recipes. Recipes include: Pad Thai Sauce, Reuben Sandwich, Falafel Wrap, Portobello Burger, Caesar Sprout Salad, Tropical Breeze (drink), even Creamy Chocolate-Avacado delight.
As can be seen from the list, there is a wide variety of recipes, many of which are plant-based alternatives to the common versions. The sports recipes are nutrient rich and intended to be eaten shortly before, during, or after exercise.
At the back of the book are meal plans that use the recipes (each recipe has its page referenced for ease of look up). They included transitional, standard, and athletic meal plans.
Some recipes have been hits with our family and some misses. It does take a realignment of how one views food - from a pleasure to a necessity. As such, I feel this book is much better for athletes/athletic minded individuals rather than emotional eaters or kids (as much as we'd like them to eat well, it just won't happen).
Received as an ARC from the publisher.
March 14, 2014
The Thrive Energy Cookbook is based on the Thrive philosophy that states :"plant based, whole food, high-net-gain, and alkaline forming without producing biological debt." The author devised this philosophy for the purpose of athletic training and there are sport-specific labels for recipes that help you prepare for, sustain and recover from a workout as well as sport-specific recipes at the end of the book.
While some ingredients may be harder to find, such as seaweed and agar powder; I was surprised to see that so many of the recipes looked delicious and easy to make. These recipes would be good for anyone looking for a healthier diet, you do not necessarily have to be an athlete. For me, a lot of the recipes use veggies straight out of the garden in the summer months. The recipes are divided into type of food. Here are some of my favorites recipes from several sections:
Mornings: Raspberry Lemon Yerba Matte looked really easy and healthy; you can also learn how to make chocolate cream, oatmeal with mango mousse and raspberries and hot apple pie waffles.
Appetizers and sides: summer rolls with mango lime and mint dipping sauce, grilled asian eggplant, and grilled zucchini,
Sandwiches, Wraps and Burgers: The big green sandwich and black bean chipotle quesadillas,
Smoothies, Fresh Juices and Warm Drinks: All of these looked delicious, but I am definitely going to try the tropical breeze, super berry frenzy and super-fruit sangria.
Desserts: Cocoa and orange nut cookies, blood orange and ginger citrus tart.
The book was provided for free in exchange for an honest review.
While some ingredients may be harder to find, such as seaweed and agar powder; I was surprised to see that so many of the recipes looked delicious and easy to make. These recipes would be good for anyone looking for a healthier diet, you do not necessarily have to be an athlete. For me, a lot of the recipes use veggies straight out of the garden in the summer months. The recipes are divided into type of food. Here are some of my favorites recipes from several sections:
Mornings: Raspberry Lemon Yerba Matte looked really easy and healthy; you can also learn how to make chocolate cream, oatmeal with mango mousse and raspberries and hot apple pie waffles.
Appetizers and sides: summer rolls with mango lime and mint dipping sauce, grilled asian eggplant, and grilled zucchini,
Sandwiches, Wraps and Burgers: The big green sandwich and black bean chipotle quesadillas,
Smoothies, Fresh Juices and Warm Drinks: All of these looked delicious, but I am definitely going to try the tropical breeze, super berry frenzy and super-fruit sangria.
Desserts: Cocoa and orange nut cookies, blood orange and ginger citrus tart.
The book was provided for free in exchange for an honest review.
August 31, 2017
When casually flipping through //Thrive Energy Cookbook// by Brendan Brazier you might think the book is a gallery of self-portraits, but sandwiched between pictures are real information and great-tasting recipes. I tried out a soup, a burger, a dessert, and a smoothie. All were relatively simple to make and tasted great--better than expected, even. Some recipes are definitely more involved than others, or use uncommon ingredients. It’s worth it to try the recipes as written before trying shortcuts.
Recipes are well split between cooked and those that avoid cooking (“raw”). Each recipe is easily identifiable by such codes as “raw” or “gluten free” under the titles, though overall recipes are sorted by type of meal and not by diet. Finding recipes can get confusing since the book is so dense and uniform (even though it is colorful with great photography).
Brazier takes everything a step further by creating three basic meal plans: for those who are transitioning (to a whole food plant-based diet), those accustomed to such a lifestyle, and those who are very athletic.
There are easier ways to eat whole foods, but the liquid elixirs/meals in //Thrive Energy Cookbook// are appealing and take the guesswork out of the process for someone who hasn't done this before, or someone who wants more organization to their athletic regimen. These are not your everyday smoothies. Brazier explains the nutritional science and synergy between ingredients nicely in the beginning of the book as well as for some individual recipes, and the information is a real boon to have in a cookbook.
Recipes are well split between cooked and those that avoid cooking (“raw”). Each recipe is easily identifiable by such codes as “raw” or “gluten free” under the titles, though overall recipes are sorted by type of meal and not by diet. Finding recipes can get confusing since the book is so dense and uniform (even though it is colorful with great photography).
Brazier takes everything a step further by creating three basic meal plans: for those who are transitioning (to a whole food plant-based diet), those accustomed to such a lifestyle, and those who are very athletic.
There are easier ways to eat whole foods, but the liquid elixirs/meals in //Thrive Energy Cookbook// are appealing and take the guesswork out of the process for someone who hasn't done this before, or someone who wants more organization to their athletic regimen. These are not your everyday smoothies. Brazier explains the nutritional science and synergy between ingredients nicely in the beginning of the book as well as for some individual recipes, and the information is a real boon to have in a cookbook.
February 20, 2014
I was sent a copy of the book for review though Net Galley, as always, all opinions are my own.
It’s unfortunate that this cookbook doesn’t fit in with my current publication schedule for my blog because it is packed full of healthy, easy to prepare recipes, that are useful even if you aren’t following the Thrive diet. I really liked the way each recipe is broken down, there are color coded keys at the top for those who are looking for gluten free, protein rich, super nutrient dense, raw, or transition recipes. Also easy to find are the prep time and special equipment needed for each recipe. While not all of the recipes appeal to my way of eating, many of them could easily be incorporated into my diet, although living in a small town some of the ingredients would be difficult to find.
It’s unfortunate that this cookbook doesn’t fit in with my current publication schedule for my blog because it is packed full of healthy, easy to prepare recipes, that are useful even if you aren’t following the Thrive diet. I really liked the way each recipe is broken down, there are color coded keys at the top for those who are looking for gluten free, protein rich, super nutrient dense, raw, or transition recipes. Also easy to find are the prep time and special equipment needed for each recipe. While not all of the recipes appeal to my way of eating, many of them could easily be incorporated into my diet, although living in a small town some of the ingredients would be difficult to find.
January 11, 2014
The Thrive Energy Cookbook is much more than a cookbook on healthy living; it is a reference guide. The early pages show overviews of the nutrients present in many of the ingredients used throughout the book. I absolutely loved all of the vibrant photography and the sleek, modern design of the book. Furthermore, each recipe is coded as being gluten-free, raw, nutrient-rich, protein-rich, among other things. Brendan Brazier's cookbook also includes suggested workout meal plans and a highly-detailed index broken down by recipe and ingredient. I really look forward to including more of these healthful meals into my personal recipe toolbox.
March 23, 2014
Beautifully photographed and laid out, this cookbook has to be one of my favourites this year. It's not so much as a cookbook but more of a prep book.
Before you drastically change your diet it is a good idea to visit your doctor to give you the okay.
Brendan has a successful "Vega" line of shakes, which my roommate brought to my attention. It was a local tv program featuring Brendan that re-enforced my interest in the book. Little did I know I already had it on hold at the library.
The ripe colours and rich fruits made my mouth water. The simple ingredients make it easy to follow and a pleasure to read.
It's a must.
Before you drastically change your diet it is a good idea to visit your doctor to give you the okay.
Brendan has a successful "Vega" line of shakes, which my roommate brought to my attention. It was a local tv program featuring Brendan that re-enforced my interest in the book. Little did I know I already had it on hold at the library.
The ripe colours and rich fruits made my mouth water. The simple ingredients make it easy to follow and a pleasure to read.
It's a must.
March 16, 2016
I bought the book and it was deceiving because some recipes look good, nutrient dense, very healthy, and reachable, but many other recipes have ingredients hard to find like; chlorella powder, maca root powder, ginseng, matcha, noni powder, acay berry juice, coconut butter, Thai basil, products of his Vega brand, or specific brands like "Earth Balance Vegan Buttery Sticks". It was hard enough to get nutritional yeast, yet the delivery fees were high. Not everyone lives in a cosmopolitan big city with exotic food :-/
January 18, 2014
This book is for all the Thrive lovers out there. It is a continuation of Brendan Brazier's approach of how to eat and prepare foods. If you are an athlete or just very active and are looking for some recipes to help your health and maybe give you some added energy, then this might be the book for you. Also, if you are interested in the author's philosophy, I would suggest picking up one of his other books.
July 7, 2015
An amazing 100% Vegan cook book, suitable for everyone, from the person that wants to have a sedentary healthy life to the professional athlete that wants to optimize his/her athletic performance.
Step by step instructions, full with useful nutritional information about the ingredients used, mouth watering pictures and generally a very Sophisticated and attention to detail met book.
Higly recomended.
Step by step instructions, full with useful nutritional information about the ingredients used, mouth watering pictures and generally a very Sophisticated and attention to detail met book.
Higly recomended.
March 2, 2014
This cookbook has beautiful photographs and is well laid out, and easy to read and follow. The recipes are labeled to show if they are gluten free, raw, nutrient dense or transitional. I think that people will enjoy the beauty and ease of use of this cookbook. I received this book free to review from Netgalley.
September 12, 2014
Great cookbook for the seasoned or aspiring vegan. Or really for anyone looking to incorporate some plant-based fuel into their lives. I still need to read the actual book on the Thrive Diet so Im probably not getting as much from the cookbook as I could. I'm not a strict vegetarian or vegan but I do try to focus on a plant-based diet. There are many great recipes to include in your arsenal.
December 1, 2014
While I don't imagine ever competing in triathlons like the author, I still enjoyed learning more about how to incorporate different types of food for purpose driven functionality. I have only tried a few recipes but they were deliciious and i can't wait to try the Chocolate Coconut Icing - guilt free, healthy icing :)
April 28, 2015
The pictures were gorgeous! That was my favorite part of looking at this cookbook, to be honest. The recipes were okay, nothing outstanding. It would be great for someone who was really active and in need of a diet plan though.
December 20, 2015
Interesting philosophy on food that intrigues me as I become more serious about furling myself for marathon training.
Sections about the philosophy behind the diet, common ingredients, and sports specific recipes.
Looking forward to trying out these recipes rather than just reading them.
Sections about the philosophy behind the diet, common ingredients, and sports specific recipes.
Looking forward to trying out these recipes rather than just reading them.
June 17, 2016
Interesting and mostly unique plant-based recipes. Most are quite simple and can be easily adapted to personal tastes or ingredient availability. Would have liked more finished dish photos, but the many that are included are very nice. Calling for name brand products was very annoying.
March 3, 2014
Packed with healthy recipes that look fantastic and quick and easy to make. Especially looking forward to trying out some of the pre/post workout options.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews