The Food Blog
Easy Creamy Caramel Sauce (0 Comments)
Autumn has arrived and here is a super simple caramel sauce. I LOVE making this sauce especially around the holiday season. What’s better than a homemade liquid gold to drizzle in your coffee, over specialty desserts, breads and more?! It may sound complex, but this style of caramel sauce you can not go wrong. So much easier than you think.
Why buy store bought when you can easily make this at home?! You only need a few ingredients, no thermometer needed, and oh so velvety.
With this recipe you are basically melting the ingredients, bringing it up to a boil, and letting it cool. You only need unsalted butter, brown sugar and cream. You may, however, add in flavoring or spices for punch of holiday flair. When made from home it is easily customizable to your liking of taste and texture.
Serves: about 8
INGREDIENTS:
1 cup brown sugar, light or dark
4 tbsp butter, unsalted
1/2 cup cream, light, half & half, or heavy
1 tbsp vanilla, pure
dash, sea salt, to taste
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a medium heavy bottomed sauce, mix all the ingredients on med-low heat. Keep stirring lightly and let cook for about 7-1o minutes or until thickened.
Once thickened, remove from stove and turn off the heat. You may serve warm or keep chilled in the refrigerator.
Tip: If sauce is thin, cook a few minutes more.
Crockpot Chili with a Polish Flair (0 Comments)
What’s better on a blustery fall or winters day with a slow cooked meal?! My husband and I love chili around this time of the year. It’s healthy comfort food, with real food ingredients, and not much fuss in the kitchen. So my question for you is, how do you like your chili?
I’ve made chili various ways from the traditional to vegan style and now a bowl chili with polish flair. This totally hit the spot with texture, taste and satiety.
Most may say that chili is greasy and unhealthy for you, but that is not the case at all. With modern chili recipes they are packed full of dense nutritional content and can be apart of a healthier lifestyle. Below are the many health benefits of chili that is good for you mind, body and soul.
MANY REASONS CHILI IS GOOD FOR YOU:
PROTEIN PACKED
Beans are an excellent source of protein, fiber and more.
EXCELLENT FIBER
Consuming enough fiber is critical for overall well being. Chilies, peppers and beans are great for that with keeping you regular and blood sugars stabilized especially for diabetics patients.
GOOD FOR YOU VITAMIN C
Peppers, bell peppers, tomatoes and tomato paste offers amazing benefits of vitamin C with improving your immune system.
IRON STRONG
A lot of people do not get enough of this and chili is a great vehicle for that key component.
CAPSICUM
This actually raises metabolic rates in losing weight. Even the sweet peppers can do this. Helps to reduce cravings for sugar and unhealthy fat. So add some spice to your life.
FEEL GOOD CHEMICALS
Chili can cause your body’s endorphins and seratonin to rise significantly which makes you happier.
CLEARS CONGESTION
Capsacium increases mucous production in which clears you up if you notice your nose dripping in result. So if next time you are feeling a cold coming on, make a pot of chili to boost your immunity and more.
BELOW FOR THE RECIPE……………………………
SERVES: about 6-8
INGREDIENTS:
1 package Kielbasa
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, medium, red or white, chopped
2-3 garlic cloves, peeled and minced
2 jalapeno peepers, sliced and chopped
1 16 ounce can dark red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
1 16ounce can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
3 cups chicken broth, low sodium
1 cup water, filtered
1 cup tomato sauce, fresh or jarred
3 tbsp chili powder
2 tbsp brown sugar
2 tbsp red wine vinegar
2 tsp cumin
1 tbsp oregano, dried
3 bay leaves
sea salt, to taste
cilantro, garnish
sour cream, garnish
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a medium saucepan, on med-low heat, saute onions, garlic and jalapenos until soft and fragrant. Then remove sauteed mixture into crock-pot.
With the same pan, brown the Kielbasa; about 10 minutes. If not sliced, do so now before placing in the crock-pot.
Next, add in all the other items except for garnishes. Mix well together. Cover.
Let cook on low for 8-10 hours. Then about the last hour taste test and flavor if needed.
When ready, serve immediately and place chili in the decorative bowls and garnish. Enjoy!
NUTRITIONAL CONTENT: calories (servings 8) 681g; total fat 25g; cholesterol 25mg; total carbohydrates 70mg; dietary fiber 20g; sugars 11g; protein 30g; calcium 11%; Iron 51% and potassium 32%
Dark Chocolate Covered Peppermint Bites (0 Comments)
It’s that time of the year with all the special Holiday tasty treats!
A super simple, vegan style, luxurious and melt in your mouth goodness from scratch. Why buy store bought when you can easily create these beauties in your own kitchen?!
With just a few ingredients on hand, without the extra unwanted calories and without the chemical shit storm you CAN feel good about serving or consuming. These beauties taste AH-mazing! I don’t know about you, but i love that refreshing feeling of peppermint and dark chocolate together. One of my absolute favorites. How about you?
For best texture and freshness, it’s best to keep them in the refrigerator or even in the freezer. IF they last that long. You may double this recipe for a bigger crowd to enjoy. This is a fun treat to gather all in the kitchen to create as well.
A perfect Holiday treat around Christmas, New Years, Valentine’s Day or even Easter.
NOT only does PEPPERMINT tastes good, BUT it offers many health benefits. A favorite medicine of the ancients, peppermint leaves, have been found in the Egyptian pyramids dating back to 1,000 BC. Modern scientific investigations have now confirmed the amazing benefits this plant has to offer and the many dozens of healing properties. Read below the many health benefits it has to offer.
PEPPERMINT HEALTH BENEFITS:
Promotes a healthier respiratory system such as coughs, colds, asthma, allergies and Tubercolosis
Just inhaling peppermint promotes memory and relieves stress
This can be used topically for pain relief, hair and skin, fresh breathe and toothpaste.
Wonderful for patients with I.B.S in alleviating symptoms and quality of life
Helps with upset stomach and indigestion
A great treatment for infants that suffer with colic
Peppermint water helps to prevent nipple crack and pain when breastfeeding
Reduces chemotherapy induced nausea
Helps to inhibit the growth of prostate cancer
May protect against DNA damage and cell death caused by radiation exposure
The extract helps with oral care in reducing cavities and more
Blend peppermint oil into your shampoo, bodywash or lotion to cool the skin or remove dandruff from your skin or scalp
Okay……………shall we scroll down to this yummy recipe treat…………………………..
SERVES: about 8-10
INGREDIENTS:
1 cup shredded coconut
1 tbsp maple syrup
2 tbsp coconut oil, melted, unrefined and NON-Gmo
1/2 tsp peppermint essential oil or extract, no alcohol
2-4 ounces dark chocolate, good quality for best taste and benefits
INSTRUCTIONS:
Pulse coconut in a food processor or blender until a viscous texture ( thick flour consistency). Transfer to a small bowl: add in the sweetener, coconut oil and essential oil. Stir well until a thick paste is formed.
By using your hands, squeeze the coconut mixture about 8-10 balls (depending on size). May be messy, but fun to shape. Repeat until completed.
Then place the balls in a container, i prefer glass, and let cool in a refrigerator for about 20-30 minutes or until firm.
Meanwhile, melt the chocolate over a stove on low heat or utilize the microwave and melt at 20 second intervals until desired smoothness.
Then remove balls and coat in the chocolate with a fork and place on a sheet with parchment. Let set in the refrigerator. Enjoy when ready.
NUTRITIONAL CONTENT: calories 103; total fat 7.9g; cholesterol 2mg; total carbohydrates 7.6g; dietary fiber 1g; sugars 6g; protein 0.9g; calcium 1%; iron 7% and potassium 1%.
Pumpkin Hummus (0 Comments)
I would like to share with you a hummus recipe with a holiday twist. Not sure what else to do with all that extra pumpkin puree besides the usual choices?!
Another great alternative is utilizing the pumpkin in a yummy side snack of hummus. I don’t know about you, but I love making hummus. This is one of my all time favorite snacks! How about you, how do you enjoy your hummus?! Do tell! One of my favorite styles of hummus is made with fresh lemon and basil which have great medicinal qualities when paired together and which that one is on my blog. I’ve made them with many types of flavors from Asian, to Mexican and the traditional style. So, this time i decided to re-create this hummus treat with holiday flair.
Not only is it delicious, but so nutritious. Between the ingredient combinations of pumpkin, herbs, the garlic and the beans make it wonderfully packed with nutritional content. Read below the many health benefits of GOOD FOR YOU chickpeas. I LOVE incorporating these beans into my burgers, chili, stews and tasty treats.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF CHICKPEAS:
Helps to strengthen immunity and promotes the development of energy into the body
Improves the nervous system
Reduces blood cholesterol
Normalizes blood pressure
Prevents inflammation and blood clots
Reduces the risk of cancer development in the intestines
Promotes the development of anemia
An excellent source of fiber and protein
You may scroll down to the RECIPE…………………………..
SERVES: about 10
INGREDIENTS:
1-2 garlic cloves, fresh and peeled
2 tsp olive oil
2 tsp filtered water
1 can chickpeas, or preferred white bean, organic
2/3 cup pumpkin puree
1 tbsp maple syrup
1/2 tsp rosemary, dried or essential oil 2-3 drops
sea salt, to taste
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a medium saucepan, over low to medium heat, simmer garlic cloves for about 10-15 minutes or until golden and fragrant
Slice pumpkin, if fresh, into chunks and boil in a big pot until softened. then mash for puree style. Set aside. Let cool.
Then puree and blend all the ingredients together in a food processor or blender. If needed, add seasonings if needed.
NUTRITIONAL CONTENT: (1/4 cup per serving) calories 170; 10g total fat; no cholesterol; carbohydrates 14.8g; sugars 2.8g; sodium 200mg; 4g dietary fiber and 5g protein.
Pumpkin Pecan Protein Bites (0 Comments)
One of my all time favorite go-to snacks!
These no-bake are easy peasy, with real food ingredients, and packed full of goodness. Guilt free goodness with holiday flair. So super simple to whip up in no time, one bowl mixing and you can customize for your liking. These beauties will satisfy the sweet tooth party crowd without the extra calories.
These bites are so versatile. In the past I’ve used different nut butters, nuts, seeds and/or dried fruit and so on and so forth. They are enjoyable to make and a great way to let kids express their creativity in the kitchen. So, I hope you try these and let me know your thoughts. Go ahead in creating your own masterpiece in the kitchen, let me know what you came up with. I would LOVE to hear! Scroll down for more details on this tasty treat.
SERVES: about 16-18
INGREDIENTS:
1/2 cup peanut butter, organic
1/3 cup pumpkin puree
3/4 cups rolled oats, grounded
1/4 cup pecans, crushed
1/2 tsp cinnamon, ground
1 tbsp maple syrup, pure
dash, sea salt
handful, dark chocolate chips
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a medium bowl, place all ingredients together. Mix well.
Place the bowl in the refrigerator to set; about 10-2o minutes, or until firm
Take a spoon or use your hand to scoop and roll into balls with desired size in mind.
You may either keep in the refrigerator for freshness if it lasts that long or in freezer as well. You may use extra melted chocolate chips to cover each one for chocolately goodness.
That’s it! A yummy and healthier treat to keep you fueled.
NUTRITIONAL VALUE: (Servings 16) calories 74; total fat 5g; sodium 38mg; total carbohydrates 5.9g; dietary fiber 1.1g; protein 3g; iron 6% and potassium 2%.
Pumpkin-Banana Oat Chocolate Chip Bread (0 Comments)
A fall inspired dessert that is mostly allergen friendly, so moist that it melts in your mouth and packed full of flavor. It has amazing texture of moisture, the natural sweetness of bananas and pumpkin, and the spices that tantalize the taste buds. Not only better for you, but tasty and super simple to whip up in the kitchen.
Oat flour is a great alternative to gluten sensitivities. They are technically gluten-free since they aren’t in the whole grain family of wheat, barley or rye category. Most grains contain protein gluten. But oats are oat flour and actually contain avenins. Oats are considered safe, easily digestible for most and less likely to cause negative reactions. So, the good news is as long as it is 100% pure oat flour and not cross contaminated by gluten rich flours, it is a great choice for those avoiding gluten. Below are the wonderful qualities of incorporating oat into your natural clean diet.
OAT HEALTH BENEFITS
PROMOTES HEART HEALTH:
Consuming fiber rich foods can help prevent heart disease.
LOWERS CHOLESTEROL:
Regular consumption of water soluble, viscous forming fiber like these found in oats flours can reduce total and LDL cholesterol levels.
DIABETIC FRIENDLY:
Oats help to control blood sugar and cholesterol levels and making it beneficial for diabetics.
PROMOTE HEALTHY BLOOD PRESSURE:
Soluble fiber helps with reducing systolic and diastolic blood pressure
HIGHLY SATISFYING:
Most likely that the beta-glucan content of oats has a positive impact of feeling full longer.
SO now that we know most of the wonderful qualities of this food item that’s beneficial for our overall well being, let’s SCROLL down to this yummy treat.
SERVES: about 12-15
INGREDIENTS:
2 cups oat flour
1 tsp baking soda
3/4 tsp baking powder
3/4 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp ginger
2 bananas, ripe
1/2 cup pumpkin puree
1/4 cup maple
1/3 cup olive oil
1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
GARNISH:
handful pecans, crushed or chopped
brown sugar, sprinkling
INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease loaf pan and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine all the dry ingredients; set aside.
In a medium bowl, combine all the wet ingredients. Stir well. Then add in the dry ingredients into the wet mixture; stir until combined. Add the chocolate chips.
Place mixture into the prepared pan and into the oven. Let bake in the middle rack for about 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and knife comes out fairly clean in the middle.
Let cool completely. You may cover and place in the refrigerator overnight. Leftovers can be sliced and frozen for long lasting freshness if desired. Enjoy!
NUTRITIONAL VALUE: calories 95; sodium 111mg; potassium 148mg; total carbohydrates 22g; dietary fiber 2.6g; sugars 7.8g; protein 2.4g; calcium 1%; vitamin C 3% and Iron 5%. Very low in saturated fat, no cholesterol, high in fiber and very high in selenium and vitamin A type of treat.