Living Loud with Keesha O'Galdez of Live Loud Foods
Chef Keesha's culinary journey began at the Natural Gourmet Institute for Culinary Arts in NYC, where she mastered the art of organic, vegan, and health-supportive diets.
Happy Tuesday! Last week was a weird week because there were so many amazing moments but I was battling the worst autumn allergies. Lots of elderberry tea, Kick Ass Immune, and magnesium + electrolytes.
I want to shoutout two amazing brands featured in this week’s recipes. Matcha Freak is my go-to matcha that I use everyday + they just sponsored my most recent pop-up. Katy is the type of gal that you want in your corner — always finding ways to lift you and your work up. SIMPLi offers such thoughtful products like olive oil, spiced salts, and beans. I have made their gigante beans again and again (check out this bean salad I made for them) + I use their olive oil on the daily.
I feel so lucky to be connected with brands that I truly love + am aligned with! I appreciate everyone’s continued support of my work.
I spoke with Keesha of Live Loud Foods for this week’s podcast episode! You may recognize her delicious candied pistachios from this Orange Creamsicle Semifreddo recipe I partnered with Live Loud Foods for. She is such a ray of sunshine and an industry veteran with the best advice. We could have chatted all day long. It’s a great listen, enjoy <3
Podcast
Keesha O’Galdez of Live Loud Foods
Chef Keesha O'Galdez is a Bronx-based culinary entrepreneur and the founder of Live Loud Foods. A former contestant on Food Network’s 'Chopped,' Keesha is passionate about creating bold, globally inspired flavors that promote health and well-being. Through her work, she seeks to inspire others by showing what's possible through dedication and creativity.
Live Loud Foods is a women-owned gourmet snack brand delivering bold, health-conscious flavors with every bite. From Caribbean jerk nuts to candied citrus pistachios, Live Loud Foods creates unique, high-quality snacks that celebrate cultural diversity and wellness. Based in NYC, the brand is committed to leaving a legacy of great food, positive impact, and living life out loud.
IG live.loud.foods | liveloudfoods.com
Listen to the episode:
Recipes
Coconut Plum Matcha [video]
Ingredients
2 tsp Matcha Freak matcha + 50ml water
5 oz. coconut water
15-20g red plum syrup
Directions
Prepare your matcha shot.
Fill a glass with ice. Pour in the coconut water and syrup. Stir till full combined.
Top with the matcha shot and stir well. Enjoy!
Spiced Salt Focaccia [video]
Ingredients
4 cups AP flour
2 tsp kosher salt
1 packet (2 tsp or 8g) Active Dry yeast
¼ cup water
1 tsp granulated sugar
2 cups lukewarm water
Made by combining ½ cup boiling water with 1½ cups cold water
SIMPLi Olive Oil Blend
SIMPLi Peruvian Spiced Salt
SIMPLi Extra Virgin Olive Oil, for dipping
Directions
Whisk together flour, salt, and instant yeast. Add the water. Mix until the liquid is absorbed and a sticky dough ball forms. Rub the surface of the dough with the SIMPLi Olive Oil Blend. Cover with a tea towel or plastic wrap and proof in the refrigerator overnight.
Line a 9x13” pan with olive oil and parchment paper. Pour in a tablespoon of olive oil.
Remove the dough from the fridge and deflate it by using a fork to pull the dough towards the center of the bowl. Place the dough bowl in the pan and roll it in the olive oil. Allow to rest at room temperature, uncovered, for 3-4 hours.
Preheat the oven to 425 degrees.
Pour a tablespoon of the SIMPLi Olive Oil Blend over the dough. Using your fingers, dimple the dough and stretch it to fill the pan. Sprinkle SIMPLi Peruvian Spiced Salt evenly over the top of the dough.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Serve with a bowl of SIMPLi Extra Virgin Olive Oil for dipping.
This recipe was made in collaboration with SIMPLi!
Weekly Favorites
I randomly pick up Recess’ lemon citrus sticks and now I’m hooked. A 3-in-1 powder blend with magnesium, adaptogens & electrolytes…aka everything I need to have a good day.
Speaking of things that help us feel better, I swear by this tincture and this tea as fall allergies come in full force.
I want to be a matching PJ set gal and these are speaking to me. (also these)
One of my friends with sensitive skin talked about how amazing this hydrating face mask is and as someone who’s skin freaks out in the cold…I need.
If you follow my IG stories, you know my obsession with the white squirrels in my neighborhood. This pillow needs to grace my sofa.
A few clothing pieces I’m eyeing: I love this dress but I’m worried it would swallow me. This twill work jacket is SO good. Babaà can do no wrong and this cardigan proves that.
ICYMI
xx,
Lauren (Hodgen)
Dear Citrus Diaries Host | @ citrusdiaries.studio
Citrus Diaries Studio | Creative Director
If you’re interested in working together, drop me a line: hello@citrusdiaries.com 🍊