The Food Blog
Slow Cooked Corned Beef and Cabbage Stew (0 Comments)
If you have never made corned beef and cabbage before, here is a super simple meal to create in your own home for your loved ones. A meal packed with nutrients, flavor and quite satiable. Most beef briskets come with a spice packet, but i always prefer making my own due to conventional chemicals and artificial flavorings. Normally I only make this dish around St.Patrick’s Day, but it’s darn delicious. A perfect meal for two or for a crowd. Below are the amazing benefits of cabbage.
Cabbage is a powerful brain food with an impressive array of health benefits. This simple item was praised by the pharaohs and has become a staple in most peoples clean diet all over the world. It is so versatile, satiable and an inexpensive produce item.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF CABBAGE:
– Cabbage helps to detoxify the body due to the vitamin C and sulfur by removing free radicals and uric acid from the body.
– It is rich in potassium which helps to regulate blood pressure by counteracting harmful effects of overexposure of sodium in the body.
– It helps to regulate blood sugar levels and aid in insulin production.
– Cabbage is a powerful anti-inflammatory which contains, betalains, which help to reduce joint pain and arthritis. With chronic diseases most people should look into anti-inflammatory type foods which are highly beneficial to symptoms in the body.
– It helps to promote brain health due to the richness in iodine to regulate the nervous system. It prevents and treats neurological disorders.
– Cabbage is rich in fiber which helps your digestive tract run more efficiently and it is the main health benefit for roughage. Eat more cabbage.
– Since this item is packed full of vitamins, minerals, fiber and nutrients while being low in calories which equals weight loss. Very satiable.
Cabbage is a wonderful remedy in treating constipation, stomach ulcers, headaches, skin disorders, heart disease, eye disorders, aging and Alzheimers. I hope you incorporate more cabbage into your clean eating diet for overall well being. I believe in the importance of good clean food in nourishing your mind, body and soul for overall well-being. Food is fuel. Food is medicine.
SHALL WE SCROLL DOWN TO THE RECIPE……………………………
SERVES: 6
INGREDIENTS:
2 onions, medium, wedges
2-3 garlic cloves, smashed and halved
1 package (2-3pounds) of corned beef brisket
3 cups beef broth, low sodium, organic
4-5 cups water, filtered
1/2 tsp mustard seeds, or mustard will do
2 bay leaves, or oregano
6 all spice berries
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/2 tsp sea salt, to taste
1/2 tsp black pepper, to taste
6 carrots, organic, skin rubbed off and cut into 3-4 inches
3 celery stalks, cleaned and cut into the same
1/2 -1 pd potatoes, quartered, or preferred style
1 whole cabbage, remove first layers, sliced in half, cored and wedged
INSTRUCTIONS:
Place onions and garlic on the bottom of crock pot. Next, place the beef brisket over the items.
Add the beef broth and the water to the pot. Sprinkle in the spice mixture of mustard, bay leaves, all spice, salt, pepper, nutmeg and oregano.
Cover and allow to cook on low for 8-10 hours.
About 4 hours of cooking add in the the rest of veggies ( carrots, potatoes, celery); cover and cook.
One hour prior you may either add the cabbage into crock pot or transfer the mixture into a big pot with the added cabbage on medium and let cook for the remainder of the time.
When all set, use a ladle and pour into decorative bowls and serve immediately. Enjoy.
NUTRITIONAL CONTENT: calories 330; total fat 19.3g; cholesterol 95mg; potassium 634mg; total carbohydrates 16.3; dietary fiber 5.3g; sugars 6g; protein 23g and high iron, vitamin B12 and zinc. Very high in selenium and vitamin C.
Healthy Benefits of Mindful Meditation (0 Comments)
“The quieter you become the more you can hear”. – Ram Dass
The past year or so, I have been implementing morning meditation practices on a daily basis as part of my self care rituals. Over time I had noticed huge improvement on many levels.
Before starting to apply this in my daily life, I have done research with books, documentaries and videos about this very simple but powerful benefits with meditation. Although in the beginning I was not consistent, but once I reached a level of cultivating a steady habit it all started to shift. I experienced clear changes with my thought patterns, my emotions, my reactions towards external events and views of reality.
During the process of my journey with meditation, I have found various benefits to share with you in this process. If you don’t meditate, or maybe thought of it but haven’t tried it just yet. I highly recommend you considering small changes in cultivating it as a daily habit. Below are some of the many health benefits I have experienced for myself.
GAINING INNER PEACE:
With meditation, you are able to release all the junk out of your system, just like cleaning your home. You expel negativity and return it to the universe where it can be converted into positive energy. But just like cleaning a very messy area, it does take time and effort before all that mess is completely cleaned out. After regular meditation, i felt more calmness within my mind. It truly made me realize how noisy my state of mind was previously. And this is the state in which only you can experience for yourself. This has increased my awareness level with my own thoughts.
INCREASING SELF AWARENESS:
Are you aware of the millions of thoughts that go through your mind during the 24 hour period? Do you know what you are thinking about all the time?
Meditation can help to give you clarity on your thoughts, inner desires and increased self awareness. The more you meditate, the more self aware you are and become. You become conscious of what you think, say, feel and what you want. Your vision must be clear in order to have strength and not to be easily swayed by external factors that surround you. Meditation has increased my connection with my inner intuition.
MORE GROUNDED AND CALMER:
You become more unattached to the physical world and start becoming a third party observer of what surrounds you. You become more observant of the world around you and not ruled by your ego and much more aligned with your higher self. And in turn, you become a person of calmness. More peace. More harmony.
BEING MORE PRESENT:
When you are more grounded, You become present in the world around you. This lets us react better to situations around you. You are more attentive, focused, efficient and receptive. You maximize every moment of your life by living in the moment.
INCREASING CONSCIOUSNESS:
You become more connected with your surroundings, the people around you, the world around you. You tend to start shedding lower levels of consciousness in vibrating higher with energy. Everything is inter-connected in this world.
INSPIRATION:
With meditation, this is where creativity and imagination comes into play. I’ve gained ideas and creativity through this simple method that has been around for centuries. Even our greatest leaders have tapped into this such as Edison, Buddha, Jesus, Confucious, Einstein and many more. Through constant practice, you will master positive intentions. Your ideas and solutions will be elevated on a more conscious level.
REJUVENATION:
All of us are essentially made up of energy, we have 7 energy centers, called the Chakras, where energy flows from. When you meditate, you are able to clear these unwanted energies and in turn feel more energized and rejuvenated.
HEALTHY SLEEP PATTERNS:
With insomnia, in most cases it is the constant thought patterns coming and going that may result in anxiety, stress and depression. This method helps to clear the mind of unwanted clutter and allows more soothing sleep. Remember it will take time and doing this before bed is best as well. Just keep up with the regular ritaul and you will see positive results. Consistency is key.
INCREASE SPIRITUAL CONNECTIONS:
Heightened consciousness from meditation leads to a higher and deeper spiritual awareness and your sixth sense. That sixth sense sure comes into play. Your intuition is what gives the most insightful and valuable solutions.
MORE FULFILLMENT TOWARDS LIFE:
You will gain overall fulfillment with the many meditation practices. You will be able to master yourself, become more positive and revitalized.
Mindful meditation isn’t always easy or even peaceful at times. Remember it takes time and effort to master. But it has numerous benefits, and you can start toady, and for the rest of your life.
“Nothing can bring you peace but yourself”. – Ralph Waldo Emmerson
The Wonderful Benefits of Hiking (0 Comments)
I’ve always been such a nature lover and I love just about everything outdoors especially exploring hiking trails. The more time I step out into nature I always feel more present in my surroundings, promotes creative stimulation, elevated my mood positively and in turn I feel more gratitude in my way of thinking for all that i have in my life.
“I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order”. – John Burroughs
Outdoor hiking has various benefits for both the mind and the body. Hiking is inexpensive, so easy to begin, and no matter what fitness level you are currently at in your life. If you look closely, there are many wonderful hiking spots to explore and discover in your area. Many times i have people reaching out to me with the best locations for trail hiking, so i’d like to share with you my go-to list of our favorite hiking spots we love. But first let me share with you the many benefits of outdoor hiking for the mind and body for overall well-being.
INCREASES FITNESS:
Depending on the terrain, in just one hour of trekking you can easily burn 500 calories. Hiking trails are softer on your joints versus concrete or other surfaces. And if you are heading for the hills, weight loss results double.
CONTROLLED WORKOUTS:
In hiking it’s so easy to carve out your own course whether it’s a slow incline to a very step paced path up a mountain. You are able to set your own pace and distance too. You make your own choices.
TOTAL BODY TONING:
Physiologically, you’re going to work your whole body, especially with the lower region of your quads, glutes and hamstrings. If you’re carrying a backpack, you will challenge yourself by your strength and endurance of your upper body as well.
LOWERING BLOOD PRESSURE, CHOLESTEROL AND DIABETES:
Consistent hiking will and can prevent or reduce the blood sugar levels in the system. When you are working your muscles it helps to move the glucose from the blood stream for energy. Hiking downhill is way more effective at removing blood sugars and improving glucose tolerance.
INCREASES CREATIVITY AND CURBS DEPRESSION:
Research has shown spending time in nature increases attention spans and creative problem solving skills by 50%. Even just walking will get the creative juices flowing than just sitting. For depression, research has shown that using hiking for additional therapies can help people feel less hopeless and less suicidal.
HIKING HEALS:
With regular physical activity in one’s life can help improve the antioxidative capacity, which wards off many diseases especially in the blood of oncological patients. You may have heard many times with breast cancer survivors who increased exercise consistently believed that it complemented their recovery and overall well being. Being out in nature, away from the hustle and bustle and technology, can allow people to connect with themselves and nature that will bring peace, harmony and a better sense of well being.
Hope you found this helpful in getting out into nature with the overall benefits. You may be pleasantly surprised with the overall results.
TOP 11 BEST HIKING LOCATIONS WE ENJOY:
FAHNESTOCK STATE PARK in Carmel, NY
FORT BARTON in Tiverton, RI
PURGATORY CHASM in Sutton, MA and Middletown, RI
CLIFFWALK in Newport, RI
SACHUEST POINT NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE in Middletown, RI
BEAVERTAIL STATE PARK in Jamestown, RI
LINCOLN WOODS (sunset trail) in Lincoln, RI
JOHN CHAFEE NATURE PRESERVE in North Kingston, RI
POWDER MILLS LEDGES WILDLIFE REFUGE in Smithfield, RI
MAXWELL MAYS WILDLIFE REFUGE in Smithfield, RI
GEORGE PARKER WILDLIFE REFUGE in Coventry, RI
GODDARD PARK in East Greenwich, RI
ROGER WILLIAMS STATE PARK (pond trail) in Providence, RI
Lantern Hill Trail (Ledyards/Foxwoods) in Connecticut
Rocky Point Park Trails in Warwick, R.I.
The Mowry Conservation in Smithfield, R.I.
Get out there and explore what mother nature has to offer! It costs nothing and it is good for you. Remember to nourish your mind, body and soul for overall well-being.
Hope you enjoy this list. As time goes on I surely will add more gem spots. If you appreciate nature like i do, please share your favorite places to get into nature. Any questions, comment below. Thank you.
Festive Chocolate Peppermint Bark (0 Comments)
Oh chocolate, how do I love thee! Who does not love chocolate, right?
Besides being so tasty, dark chocolate provides numerous health benefits. But not any chocolate will do. Cacao in it’s the purest form is bitter and offers many health payoffs. It’s important to purchase high quality and at least 70% cacao levels to receive the positive affects.
WHY DARK CHOCOLATE IS HEALTHY?
Dark chocolate boasts some of the highest levels in antioxidants more than blueberries and cranberries. Yes, it does. Crazy right? Another reason to enjoy chocolate. Dark chocolate contains iron, copper, magnesium, zinc, selenium, manganese and potassium. And by consuming 2 squares of this super food item daily in reducing symptoms in 3 weeks.
Lowers the risk of heart attack and stroke
Lowers the risk of type 2 diabetes
Lowers blood pressure
Improves brain function
Fights tooth decay
Protects against UV rays
And an aphrodisiac “feel good” qualities you will receive
In that regard, may you have a bit more sweetness in your life. Just be sure it’s the good kind. Recipe below.
SERVES: about 16
INGREDIENTS:
12 ounces chocolate, high quality (dark and/or milk ), coarsely chopped
!/2 tsp peppermint extract
pinch, sea salt
$-5 peppermint candy canes, coarsely crushed
INSTRUCTIONS:
Line a baking sheet with parchment. Set aside.
Bring a double broiler or heatproof bowl set over a small pot of water to simmer. Place the chopped chocolate into the bowl; gently stir until completely melted. Remove from heat and stir in the peppermint extract and sea salt. Or you may heat a microwave safe bowl with 30 second intervals to melt in which i have done before and just fine. Just stir in between in not over heating.
Next pour the mixture onto the prepared pan and smooth evenly with a spoon. Sprinkle the crushed candy on top; lightly pat to set.
Place pan in the freezer to allow to harden; about 5 minutes. Then when set, break apart and enjoy. This will be good for up to a week, wrapped tightly and kept chilled in the refrigerator.
Flank Steak Fajitas with Homemade Sauce (0 Comments)
This totally hit the spot! Normally in our household, on Tuesday nights, we enjoying having a Mexican meal. How about you?
These homemade fajitas are just simply delicious, versatile,made with real food ingredients and easy to create. Why buy store bought brands that are loaded with fake ingredients, extra calories and not at all healthy when you can easily make it at home?! As I always say fresh IS best. It’s so vital to nourish your mind and body with proper fuel for overall wellness.
For example: You wouldn’t give your vehicle the wrong type of fuel or not maintain at all, right? Otherwise, if you did, your car may not last that long. This applies to your own temple, your body. When you maintain your body well, it will respond properly especially over time. It’s best to stay away from the boxed foods and stay close to the earth. Below is a recipe that is packed full of wholesome goodness and so tasty. It’s a wonderful way to get the family involved and have fun creating in the kitchen.
SO…..LET’S SCROLL DOWN TO THE RECIPE FOR DETAILS
SERVES: about 8
INGREDIENTS:
1-2 packages sliced flank steak
1/2 cup olive oil
2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1/3 cup lime juice, fresh
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp cumin
1 tbsp chili powder
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp sweetener
2 whole medium onions, halved and sliced
2 red bell peppers, seeded and sliced lengthwise
2 yellow bell peppers, seeded and sliced lengthwise
flour tortillas, warmed
cheese ( grated cheddar/ jack or Queso Fresco)
salsa
cottage cheese, or preferred style
cilantro leaves
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a dish, mix together the olive oil, Worcestershire, limes, garlic, chili powder, salt, pepper and sugar until blended well. Pour half of the mixture into a separate dish. In the first dish, place the steak and turn over to coat well. Set aside. The second dish, place the veggies and coat on each side. Cover both dishes and place in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours.
Prepare the tortillas, salsa, and rest of the garnishes.
Heat the skillet, over med-high heat, and drizzle olive oil. Add the veggies and let cook for a few minutes until they are cooked but slightly firm. Remove from heat and place on a dish to set aside.
In the same skillet, over med-high heat, add the meat and let cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until medium rare. Remove and allow to rest on a cutting board for about 5 minutes.
If the meat hasn’t been sliced, now is the time and serve immediately with the garnish. Enjoy!!
NUTRITIONAL CONTENT: sauce – calories 126; total fat 13; sodium 200g; potassium 40mg; total carbohydrates 36g; sugars 2g; protein 0.03g; vitamin A 7%; vitamin C 2%; calcium 1% and Iron 4%.
Peanut Butter-Oat Energy Bites (no-bake-gluten-free) (0 Comments)
What I have for you today is a no-bake snack that is just right for on-the-go and loaded with real-food that will power you in between meals. They are practically guilt free, super simple to whip up in minutes and so darn delicious. Now i may need to warn that they are addictive, but at least they are better for you. Hope you enjoy creating your own spin on this simple snack treat.
The health benefits of high quality organic types of peanut butter includes reducing the risk of diabetes, heart diseases, cancers, degenerative nerve diseases and helps to control Alzheimer’s disease. Peanut butter is made from dry roasted peanuts. A healthy food, with moderation, which contains a vast amount of nutrients such as proteins, carbohydrates, mono-saturated fatty acids, folate, niacin, panthothanic acid, riboflavin, thiamin, vitamin E, C and , sodium, magnesium, calcium and quite a few other important nutrients.
Besides from the great taste, it offers vital nutrients that are essential for the body. Here is a list below.
Rich source of protein
Antioxidant properties
Lowers cholesterol
Promotes healthy bone growth
Prevents type 2 diabetes
Constipation reliever
Good source of vitamins
Regulates glucose levels
High in potassium
Rich in dietary fiber
Prevents cancers
Prevents gall stones
WHAT KIND TO PURCHASE?
Make sure you READ those labels before buying. Organic is best. Make sure that it contains no hydrogenated fats, non-homogenized, no preservatives and sugar. Choose the kind that just contains dry roasted peanuts and salt. One of our favorites is ‘Teddie” all natural peanut butter. You will find it has a rich peanut butter flavor and plus it’s better for the environment as well. My boys love peanut butter and is used quite often so i make sure i am buying the right one for better health and wellness.
Now that we know the many benefits of this simple food item, let’s go on to the recipe below.
SERVING: about 20
INGREDIENTS:
1/2 cup peanut butter, organic
1/3 cup maple syrup, pure
1 cup rolled oats, organic
1/4 cup shredded unsweetened coconut, non-GMO
1/4 cup dark chocolate chips, organic
2 tbsp golden flax seed meal, organic
dash, sea salt
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a medium bowl, combine all the ingredients together until combined; mix well to evenly coat.
Transfer the mixture to the refrigerator to chill and set; for about 15 minutes. Remove from the refrigerator and shape into 1 inch round balls. You may want to wet your hands slightly to reduce stickiness. You store in an airtight container for up to a week or more in a cool spot of the refrigerator.
NUTRITIONAL CONTENT: calories 90; total fat 5.1g; sodium 31mg; potassium 94mg; total carbohydrates 9.5g; dietary fiber 1.6g; sugars 4.5g; protein 2.8g; calcium 1% and Iron 10%.