The Food Blog
Golden Milk Latte (0 Comments)
I’ve been really enjoying this satisfying drink and figure it’s time to share this lovely cocktail. If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re missing out. A creamy hot milk that packs nutrients and flavor with coffee. Yes. I said coffee. I LOVE coffee! Do you yourself enjoy coffee and how do you like it?
Coffee is my lifeline. I need it first thing in the morning when i rise before doing anything. For a blogger, we wear many hats throughout our day, besides family life, from recipe developer, food photographer, writer and social media manager. And organization is key in what i need to get done that day. My morning ritual every morning is rising by 5;30-5;45am with my quiet time of meditation, reflection, listening or reading insightful information and my goal list.
How about you, what are your morning rituals consist of in getting off the right foot?! Do tell.
The recipe drink i am sharing with you today is such a powerful anti-inflammatory beverage made with turmeric. There are numerous health benefits with this super-food from easing depression and anxiety to relieving pain in the body and promoting a healthier digestion. Just to name a few. But many take this powerful ingredient the wrong way. It is important to mix it with black pepper(for optimal absorption) and a fat soluble (like olive oil, avocado or coconut oil) for best results. Heating this ingredients also helps to retain and fuel the nutrients going into the body as well. This is great to incorporate into smoothies, stir-fry, juices, soups, stews and oatmeal. It is so versatile and has many healing powers.
YOU MAY ASK, WHY MOST ARE CONSUMING THIS GOLDEN MILK CONCOCTION?
Golden milk has been trending for awhile now and I AM finally jumping on the band wagon. This cocktail is so soothing and tasty. Golden milk is considered a warm beverage filled with health benefits. And also known as turmeric tea. Turmeric is known for it’s anti-inflammatory properties which may ease a multitude of health issues naturally such as arthritis, depression and more.With this in mind, why would you NOT give this a try! I certainly crave this in the early am along with my rituals.
In order to make this paste, you need turmeric. A super simple concoction of water, black pepper and coconut oil. The black pepper and coconut oil helps the body to absorb the nutrients with this super food ingredient. This paste is heated up over the stove, on low heat, until thick paste is formed and then can be stored away in the refrigerator for in-between two-three weeks. You will notice if it’s bad due to a foul smell.
The Golden Milk recipe is easy breezy to whip up. I add in my spices from cinnamon, ginger and sometimes cloves along with coconut oil and a pinch of maple syrup. The taste is AMAZING! I LOVE this beverage so much that i can’t believe i haven’t had it sooner. I hope you add this to your daily routine. And if you do, i would love to hear about how you enjoy your concoction. Let’s drink to good health!
“LET FOOD BE THY MEDICINE AND MEDICINE BE THY FOOD”. -HIPPOCRATES
TURMERIC HEALTH BENEFITS:
Aids in metabolism and weight management
Anti-inflammatory
Antibiotic
Antiseptic
Antioxidant
Anti-arthritic
Blood purifier
Cancer prevention
Heals stomach ulcers
Helps cough and cold
Improves digestion, prevents gas and bloating
Improves skin condition
Lowers cholesterol
Reduces side affects of chemotherapy
Skin tonic
Strengthens ligaments
Slows progression of multiple sclerosis
Prevents progression of Alzheimer’s disease
BELOW IS THE RECIPE
GOLDEN MILK:
INGREDIENTS:
2 cups organic cow milk, or nut or plant based
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
1.4 tsp ginger powder
1-2 tsp maple or preferred
1 tsp coconut oil, unrefined
TURMERIC PASTE:
1/4 cup turmeric powder
1/2 cup filtered water
3/4 tsp black pepper, ground
1 tsp coconut oil, unrefined
INSTRUCTIONS:
For the milk, mix all ingredients in a saucepan over low heat. Whisk well to ensure even distribution with the spices. Serve warm.
For the paste, mix the turmeric and water in a saucepan over low heat; stirring until paste has formed. Once paste has formed, add in the black pepper and coconut oil; mix well. Remove from heat; let cool. Then you may store away in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two-three weeks.
Place your brewed coffee in your favorite mug add the milk like a creamer and about 1/2 tsp of turmeric paste; blend well. Enjoy!
Chickpea and Quinoa Burger (0 Comments)
What I am sharing with you today is not your typical burger, but I assure you it is darn delicious. It’s super simple to create, packed full of nutrition and tasty. Even my husband, whom is a meat lover, really enjoyed this meal. You may be pleasantly surprised in the taste and texture profile. These are also great in making extra to keep in the freezer, for two months, for another yummy meal.
Gravitating towards a more plant-based lifestyle doesn’t always mean cutting out your favorite meat items, but simply adding more fruits and veggies to your clean diet. Going in this direction will promote better overall well being in staying closer to the earth. And may reverse or ward off certain diseases. Below is a list of numerous health benefits with a plant based lifestyle. BUT, you may ask what does that mean.
WHAT DOES A PLANT BASED DIET MEAN?
This largely focuses on plant derived foods that are unrefined or minimally processed such as whole grains, fruits, veggies, nuts, seeds, tubers and legumes. They are full of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and phyto-nutrients while providing balance of nutrients in the body.
Following this guideline doesn’t mean cutting out all animal products like vegan or vegetarian. Animal products may serve as a supporting role to your meals. Gravitating towards more a plant based lifestyle and more away from processed foods you will find positive affects with a glow to the skin, or better digestion, or sustained energy.
PLANT BASED FOODS LIST:
WHOLE GRAIN- whole wheat, brown rice, rye or quinoa
ROOTS- beets, potato, carrot
BULBS- onions, garlic, water chestnut
STEMS- celery, rhubarb, asparagus
LEAVES- lettuce, bok choy, arugula
FLOWERS- cauliflower, broccoli, artichoke
FRUITS- tomato, orange, watermelon
MUSHROOMS- portobello, white buttons, shiitake
LEGUMES- cannellini, peas, lentils
NUTS- pecans, cashews, walnuts
HEALTH BENEFITS
Roughly over 300 million people live with diabetes and is expected to soar over the coming years. Type 2 diabetes can be prevented along the lines of a clean diet.
Harvard school suggests with lots of research done that a diet consisting of an increase of veggies and fruits can help lower blood pressure. Heart disease and stroke are the leading causes of death in the United States.
Plant based lifestyle is the number 1 way to improve your chances at avoiding cancer risks.
Heart health studies have shown that individuals who average at least 8 times daily servings of nutritious foods reduced the risk of heart attack or stroke.
Along with this type of diet you may find you are losing weight naturally due to feeling full and satisfied on low calorie foods that are nourishing.
When increasing your fiber intake you may also lower your cholesterol and blood sugar levels in keeping you more regulated.
When consuming high levels of plants such as kale, spinach, corn, squash, kiwi or grapes your vision will improve due to vitamin A.
When decreasing the amount of animal products in your diet which is prone to clogging pores, you may find clear and smoother skin.
You may feel more sustained energy throughout your day.
RECIPE
SERVES: about 4-6 depending on size
INGREDIENTS:
1 1/2 cup chickpea, drained and rinsed
1/3 cup quinoa, cooked and cooled
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 red bell pepper, minced
1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
1 package spinach, chopped
1 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp cayenne
1/4 cup spelt flour, or chickpea
6 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp oregano, dried
sea salt, dash
black pepper, dash
INSTRUCTIONS:
Prepare and cook quinoa with the product instructions.
In a non-stick skillet, heat oil and add the peppers, mushrooms and red pepper flakes. Let cook until soft about 3-5 minutes. Add in the spinach; let cook until wilted.
In a bowl, mash the chickpeas but not to fine or coarse. Add the quinoa that has been cooked, spinach mixture from pan and all the seasoning to the bowl. Add salt and pepper to taste. Mix well.
Divide the mixture into 4-6 patties and pat into round patties.
You may use a skillet or flat top surface. lightly oil with olive oil or coconut; cook each side for about a few minutes each until golden brown.
Place in prepared bun or preferred vessel and add topping.
NUTRITIONAL CONTENT: calories 569; total fat 10.9g; sodium 130mg; total carbohydrates 90g; dietary fiber 21.9g; sugars 9.8g; protein 25.5g; calcium 14% iron 10% and Potassium 27%.
Sausage, Sage and Apple Stuffing (0 Comments)
This savory side dish is one of my all time favorites for a Thanksgiving feast. Perfectly crisp, but yet soft with the infusion of sausage and apple to complement the flavor profile well. A sweet and savory side dish that is nicely balanced with the enhancement of fresh sage.
The importance of this medicinal herb, sage, includes many health benefits that helps the ability to improve brain function, lower inflammation, prevent chronic disease, boost immunity, slow the onset of cognitive disorders and so much more. This perennial woody herb has a huge impact on the human health. This is also a sister herb to the rosemary. The traditional uses of this herb dates back numerous years for treating snakebites, protection against evil, boosting fertility in females and much more listed below.
BENEFITS OF SAGE:
Treats inflammation
Antioxidant properties
Prevents Alzheimer’s disease
Improves bone health
Soothes and improves skin care
Manages diabetes
Aids in digestion
Stimulates hair growth and shine
Treats depression
Treats excessive sweating
Helps with sore throat
Promotes dental health
WORDS OF CAUTION:
Although sage is not considered an allergen, but is still in the mint family and those who suffer from an allergic reactions to the members of this broad plant family should consult with a doctor before including to your natural diet.
LETS SCROLL DOWN FOR THE RECIPE BELOW
SERVES: 8-10
INGREDIENTS:
16 ounce stuffing cubes, or homemade
6 tbsp butter, unsalted
1 pound sausage, ground
1 onion, medium, chopped
2 apples, cooking red or green, peeled, cored and chopped
2 clery ribs, sliced
1/2 tsp sea salt, to taste
3 cup broth, chicken and low sodium
1/4 cup sage, fresh
2 eggs, beaten
INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat oven 325 degrees.
Place stuffing in a bowl; set aside. Then grease the baking dish; set aside.
Melt 2 tbsp butter in a skillet, over medium heat, on the stove. Add in the sausage; let cook until browned thoroughly.
Drizzle the meat mixture and pan dripping into the baking dish to the stuffing.
With the same pan, add the remaining butter; let melt. Add the onions, celery, apples and salt; let cook for about 5 minutes, or until softened. Add the broth and herbs to the pan;bring to a boil and let simmer for about 3-5 minutes.
Place the veggies mixture over the stuffing mixture; toss evenly.Next, add the eggs and stir well. loosely pack the dressing in prepared pan.
Place the pan in the oven, middle rack, uncovered until the top forms a crust; about 40 minutes. Drizzle 2 tbsp of melted butter or turkey dripping over the top. Let cook for another 15-20 minutes until crisp and golden. Serve immediately. Enjoy.
NUTRITIONAL CONTENT: calories per serving 520; total fat 24g; cholesterol 104mg; sodium 950mg; total carbohydrates 50g; dietary fiber 6g; sugars 10.9g; protein 21g; vitamin D 19%; calcium 3%; iron 21% and potassium 7%.
Parmesan-Garlic Stuffed Mushrooms (0 Comments)
These tasty bites are packed full of flavor, super simple to whip up and healthier than most recipes.
I’ve made these scrumptious bites in the past with my husband for the holidays. They are a great crowd-pleaser, an excellent side dish or snack, and made with fresh ingredients. A wonderful appetizer to make ahead or the day of with a handful of ingredients, easy to prepare and quite nutritious. These magic mushrooms have a wide variety of uses and health benefits for your well-being. Read below for the list.
BENEFITS OF MUSHROOMS: Whether you eat them raw or cooked here are some facts to incorporate mushrooms into your natural diet.
A variety of mushrooms produce and enhance your vitamin D levels when in the sun light.
Research has found, white button mushrooms increase better immune function by the production of antiviral and other protein released by the cells while protecting and repairing the body’s tissues.
Increase your antioxidant levels with mushrooms. Crimini and Portobello were about the same level on the O.R.A.C. scale with red peppers. And which may help to fight the aging process. The highest source is the wild porcini mushroom.
Burn, baby, burn! Have more mushrooms to increase energy levels in the body. They help to metabolize protein and fats. Mushrooms are loaded with vitamin B2 and B3 which is about 30-44% of your daily recommended amount.
Mushrooms contain high levels of selenium which helps with your bladder in reducing certain cancers.
Mushrooms help to lower cholesterol as well due to being cholesterol free. Shiitake contains compounds that help the liver process cholesterol and remove it from the blood stream in result. Mushrooms help maintain healthy blood pressure and improve circulation.
To receive full benefits it is best to cook them due to the cell walls make it tough for the digestive system to get all the nutrients inside them. This allows a much smoother process in absorbing the nutrients for your overall well-being.
SERVES: 12
INGREDIENTS:
12 mushrooms
1/4 cup olive oil
1 tbsp butter, unsalted
1 cup breadcrumbs, italian style
1 tbsp parsley, fresh, or preferred herb
1/2 tsp oregano, dried
melted butter
INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat oven 350 degrees.
Firstly remove the stems and clean the caps free of dirt. Place the caps in the baking dish. Drizzle caps with a dab of olive oil and brush for even distribution.
Then chop the stems finely. With a medium saucepan, over med-low heat, let the butter simmer until melted. Combine the stems of the mushrooms and the rest of the ingredients into the pan. Add in the rest of the oil; let saute until fragrant. When ready, remove from the stove.
Place the sauteed mixture, about a spoonful, in the caps and arrange appropriately in the baking dish. Repeat until filled.
Place the baking dish into the stove; let bake for about 30-45 minutes or until golden brown. Serve immediately. Enjoy.
NUTRITIONAL CONTENT: calories; 140; total fat 9.4g; cholesterol 12mg; sodium 290mg; total carbohydrates 7.7g; dietary fiber 0.6g; protein 6.9g; vitamin D 347%; calcium 14%; iron 6% and potassium 2%.
In The Beginning (0 Comments)
“Be willing to be a beginner every single day”.
When trying to attempt something NEW whether it’s an activity, skill or mindset, you WILL suck at it.
BUT,
EMBRACE the suck
EMBRACE the awkwardness
EMBRACE the challenge
GROWTH IS THE ESSENCE OF LIFE
Because, over time, you will develop that skill more and more that each day passes and will get BETTER at it.
With anything new, you need to cultivate a growth mindset. You NEED to start at the bottom of the mountain and work your way up step by step. One you gain momentum, you will reach new ideas, insights and a new mindset. And eventually you will become an expert in your niche field in which you thought you could not with your old mindset.
SO, stop stopping yourself! Keep choosing to take baby steps forward and keep evolving into a better version of yourself.
You NEED to understand you are allowed to evolve into the person you need to become when working on your vision to come into reality.
In order to materialize what you desire, to be phenomenal, you MUST visualize it in detail.
This may mean you must work on it daily, piece by piece, brick by brick in building what you see for yourself.
This may mean sitting in a quiet space, closing your eyes and envisioning the result.
This may mean doing less with more focus to get ahead. Go an inch wide and a mile deep.
This may mean writing it down on paper, in a journal or notepad, daily.
This may mean immersing yourself fully in your work and gravitating towards like-minded individuals who are wiser, more influential and much further than yourself. This will help you to propel forward.
This may mean cutting out distractions such as people, places and things that no longer serve you in achieving your goals for the future.
This may mean digesting valuable content daily and implementing what works in where you want to go. This could be a book, podcast, video or live-stream, a mastermind group and/or mentors.
This may mean writing down your goals with reflecting and/or adjusting quite often.
This may mean rising earlier in getting off on the right foot with completing certain tasks in working towards those goals and visions.
REMEMBER…………………….
It DOESN’T matter who you used to be. You are NOT your past. You are NOT your mistakes. You are ALLOWED to learn, grow and evolve daily. Everyday is a new opportunity to think, choose, decide and act differently in a way that suits and supports you in becoming the person you feel you ARE capable of being.
You ARE not less than. You are enough and so much more than because you are a child of God.
SO keep going! Keep shining your light and be better than yesterday.
“The expert in anything was once a beginner”. -Helen Hayes
Broiled Stuffed Sweet Potatoes Boats (0 Comments)
Sweet potato LOVE right here.
This is one of my favorite go-to meals. It’s wonderful when you you don’t have the extra time, it is very versatile with utilizing real food ingredients, not much fuss in the kitchen and packed full of nutrition to keep you fueled during your day. In the past, I’ve made a savory dish to Italian and now a taste of Mexican flair. They are fun to create in the kitchen with endless toppings to please a crowd or for just two. They are loaded with fiber, protein, essential nutrients and packs flavor. A guilt free meals you can feel good about serving to your family. Remember to nourish your mind, body and soul for overall well being.
Not only are sweet potatoes so tasty, but packs a punch of nutrients. This beloved sweet potato may be sweet, but not a potato or a yam. This beauty belongs from the gorgeous orange root tuber hails from the morning glory family.
Besides being powerfully healthy. Did you know, that they were an important factor in keeping Americans sustained through the hard times from the colonial, Revolutionary and the great depression era? We may welcome these beauties with butter, syrup and/or marshmallows, but these surprisingly sweet potatoes have so much to offer for our overall well being. Below are the many health benefits of this simple food item.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF SWEET POTATOES:
Provide kind carbohydrates that do not induce sugar cravings
Promote a healthy digestive system and help beat disease
May keep some cancers at bay
Excellent for eyes
Helps conquer PMS blues
Promotes fertility
Helps to tame inflammation
Promotes vitality and quality of life
NOW for the recipe below………………………………..
SERVES: about 4
INGREDIENTS:
2 medium sweet potatoes
1-2 tbsp olive oil
dash, sea salt
dash, black pepper
2-4 drops rosemary essential oil, or few sprigs of leaves
2 cups ground beef, or preferred
1/2 onion, chopped
1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
2 tomatoes, medium, diced
2 jalapenos, sliced and diced
handful, spinach, organic
Asian chili garlic sauce, garnish
1-2 avocados, garnish
sour cream, garnish
INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat oven with the broiler setting.
On a large baking sheet, with aluminum foil, drizzle the sweet potatoes with olive oil, sea salt, black pepper and herbs of your choice. Poke potatoes with a fork before placing in the broiler. Go ahead and wrap the potatoes in the foil.
Place in the oven to broil for about 45-60 minutes, or until softened.
When ready remove from oven and set aside.
In the meanwhile, prepare your preferred topping ingredients. In a non-stick skillet, brown the meat with seasoning of your choice. Add in your beans, veggies and whatever else your heart desires. Let saute until softened and fragrant. Next, scoop out some of the flesh of the potato and place in the pan mixture; mix well until combined. Remove from heat; set aside.
Fill the skins with the mixture from the pan evenly. Garnish with your favorite toppings. Enjoy.
NUTRITIONAL CONTENT: calories 800; total fat 40g; cholesterol 89mg; sodium 300mg; total carbohydrates 70g; dietary fiber 19g; sugars 2.9g; protein 40g; calcium 8%; iron 39% and potassium 53%.