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Tag: GoodFood
Cream Filled Pizzelles
Cream filled pizzelles.
I ate these for the first time about 5 years ago.
I used to buy them off a woman who sold them to Catullos in Boardman, Ohio.
Something happened after a couple years as I went to buy them : and she hadn’t brought any.
So I had to learn to make them.
Thanks to my mother in law who taught me how to make pizzelle batter.
Now
Let’s start baking!
INGREDIENTS
6 eggs
1 1/2 cup sugar
1 cup butter melted, (2 sticks)
2 teaspoons vanilla
2 1/2 cups flour
4 teaspoons baking powder
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese softened
1/2 – 3/4 can condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
8 oz container Cool Whip or 8 oz of whipped cream
INSTRUCTIONS
Whisk the eggs and the sugar until pale yellow, thick and frothy.
Add the melted and cooled butter and vanilla. Mix to combine. In a separate bowl, whisk the flour and baking powder together. Add to the batter. Mix to combine. Heat the pizzelle press until it’s hot.
Using two small spoons, place about a Tablespoon of batter slightly behind the center of each pizzelle design. The batter will spread forward as it bakes. Bake for a few minutes, just until the pizzelles are slightly golden. Working quickly, wrap the hot pizzelles around a clean marker. You won’t be able to shape them into a cylinder if they cool even a little bit, so work really fast. You don’t need to use a marker, but it’s easier for me that way. Repeat will all the batter.
Meanwhile, to make the filling, using a paddle attachment on a standing mixer or using a hand mixer, cream the cream cheese and condensed milk until the mixture is smooth. Add the vanilla.
Fold in the Cool Whip or whip up some cream in a separate bowl and fold into the cream cheese.
Fill a piping bag with the filling and fill the pizzelles.
Cream for Filled Pizzelles
Serves: 48 to 52 cookies
Ingredients
6 eggs
1½ cup sugar
1 cup butter melted, (2 sticks)
2 teaspoons vanilla
2½ cups flour
4 teaspoons baking powder
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese softened
½ – ¾ can condensed milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
8 oz container Cool Whip or 8 oz of whipped cream
Instructions
Whisk the eggs and the sugar until pale yellow, thick and frothy.
Add the melted and cooled butter and vanilla. Mix to combine.
In a separate bowl, whisk the flour and baking powder together. Add to the batter. Mix to combine.
Heat the pizzelle press until it’s hot. Using two small spoons, place about a Tablespoon of batter slightly behind the center of each pizzelle design. The batter will spread forward as it bakes. Bake for a few minutes, just until the pizzelles are slightly golden.
Working quickly, wrap the hot pizzelles around a clean marker. You won’t be able to shape them into a cylinder if they cool even a little bit, so work really fast. You don’t need to use a marker, but it’s easier for me that way. Repeat will all the batter.
Meanwhile, to make the filling, using a paddle attachment on a standing mixer or using a hand mixer, cream the cream cheese and condensed milk until the mixture is smooth.
Add the vanilla. Fold in the Cool Whip or whip up some cream in a separate bowl and fold into the cream cheese.
Fill a piping bag with the filling and fill them.
You can freeze them if wrapped and packed in freezer bags for us to 3 months.
Spice It Up Friday’s
Turmeric powder is ground from the root of a tropical perennial thought to be native to Southeast Asia and has been used extensively throughout history as a color additive for food and textiles. In addition to adding vibrant yellow color to dishes, turmeric has an earthy, pungent flavor that is very versatile and works well with spices like cinnamon, black pepper, cardamom, and cumin.
Turmeric has been used in both medical and religious applications throughout history. It is featured in ayurvedic medicine, the traditional medicine of India, as a mild digestive. It is also combined with water to make an Asian cosmetic that is said to good for the skin. Additionally, this spice is high in antioxidants, making it a great addition to many dishes from a health prospective.
Curry Powder health benefits includes providing nutrition, prevents infection, promotes good digestion, detoxifies the liver, promote metabolism and support bone health. Other benefits includes slowing down the aging process, relieving pain, supporting healthy heart, fighting cognitive diseases and preventing cancer
What is Curry Powder?
Curry powder (curry comes from the Tamil word Kari which means spiced sauce)
is a delicious mix of spices, perfect balance to give food just the right kick. Many cuisines have adopted this mix, and each recipe uses its variations. It is often presumed to be a powdered form of the curry leaf, but this is not the case. The curry leaf is a separate herb also associated with the same region as curry powder.
Curry powder has become a staple ingredient in my home this past year and i wish i would have used it decades ago. The first time I used it was actually to make a warm blended beverage called
Nutrition
For a spice mix, it is packed full of nutritional advantages. It is full of proteins, minerals, and vitamins. Per 100 grams, it contains 13 grams of protein, 1543mg of potassium, 52 mg of sodium, 33grams of dietary fiber, 19% vitamin A, 47% calcium, 60% vitamin B6, 63% magnesium, 164% iron and 19 % vitamin C. Curry powder is also fat-free.
Anti Bacterial
The herb and spices that make up the curry powder are full of many health benefits. Herbs like dried coriander possess antibacterial and antifungal properties that prevent infections from affecting the body. It is very useful in preventing diseases such as E.coli and other gut infections. Curry powder helps in fighting other infections present in the body.
Good Digestion
Spices in it are packed full of dietary fiber. Along with possessing antibacterial properties, curry powder also helps in regulating bowel movements and ensures a healthy gut and digestive system. It ensures healthy intestinal health. A healthy digestive system ensures that the body is absorbing adequate nutrients and stays disease free.
Detoxifies The Liver
The liver is the organ which processes all the food that goes into our body. It extracts the nutrients and all other elements of food to deliver to other parts of the body. The turmeric, which is an integral part of curry powder, contains an antioxidant compound known as curcumin. This prevents tumor growth, inflammation in the liver and also detoxifies it. Curcumin has been linked to liver health and has been observed to boost liver health.
Metabolism
It has an impressive amount of proteins and is very beneficial for the digestive system. This is helpful in increasing the metabolic rate and helps transport the nutrients from the food to the other parts of the body.
Healthy Bones
It contains ingredients that are vital to bone health; it helps in maintaining a sufficient bone density. The 19% calcium present in curry powder per 100-grams makes up a good part of the daily requirement for a grown adult. Phosphorus and magnesium are also beneficial in maintaining bone and muscle health and slow down the degenerative process.
Anti- Aging Properties
Along with a list of nutrients, curry powder also contains antioxidants that prevent the oxidative damage to the body both inside and out. The turmeric and vitamin C in the curry powder is very useful in slowing down the aging process and preventing the appearance of wrinkles.
Pain Relief
It is a good way to incorporate ingredients such as turmeric into your cooked food. Turmeric is very effective in relieving joint pains and is also used to treat inflammation and diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. Turmeric has almost similar effects to antibiotics and ibuprofen. This makes curry powder a natural remedy for multiple diseases.
Healthy Heart
The fiber present in curry powder helps control the cholesterol in the body. Bad eating habits can be the main cause of heart diseases; the bad cholesterol often gets stuck in the arteries causes blood pressure and other heart diseases. The cardamom and basil in the curry powder are very effective as vasodilators that prevent heart diseases. They affect the proteins in food to prevent high blood pressure
Cognitive Diseases
It has several spices that are beneficial for mental health. However, turmeric is one of the most effective in preventing mental disorders from occurring. Curcumin reduces the effects of free radicals on the nervous system; it helps build a stronger immune system that eliminates the toxins from the body. It has been observed to remove the plaque in the neural pathways that cause memory issues. People who add curry powder regularly to their food have been observed to suffer less from diseases such as Alzheimer’s.
Helps Prevents Cancer
The vast varieties of antioxidants in the herbs and spices that make up the curry powder are very effective in preventing cancer. The curcumin targets tumors and cancerous growths in the body. Many antioxidants inhibit the growth of cancerous cells in the body. Adding it to your diet can reduce the chances of you getting affected by cancer.
I now incorporate curry spice in many dishes , soups and anti inflammatory warm beverages.
Recipes
Curry Rubbed Chicken Temders
• 2 teaspoon curry powder
•1 teaspoon chili powder
•½ teaspoon ground cumin
•¼ teaspoon ground allspice
•¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
•Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste
•1 pound boneless chicken tenders
Soak 10 or so 8-inch wooden skewers in water to cover for at least 30 minutes (one skewer for each tender).
You can also just grill the tenders without skewers.
In a large bowl or container, mix together the curry powder, chili powder, cumin, allspice, cinnamon, and salt and pepper until well blended. Add the chicken tenders and toss in the mixture to coat.
Preheat the broiler or grill. Thread one chicken tender onto each skewer. Broil or grill for about 4 minutes on each side, until they are just cooked throughout.
sprinkle with either chopped parsley or chopped spring onions.
I serve with rice and salad
Golden Milk
I just love this it’s so warming and what a great anti inflammatory drink.
1 LARGE SERVING FOR 1 PERSON
• 1 tsp of ground turmeric or curry
• 1 tsp of ground ginger
• 1 tsp of ground cinnamon
• 0,25 tsp of ground black pepper
• 1 dash of cayenne pepper
• 1 cup (2,5 dl) of boiling water
• 1 tablespoon of heavy cream or coconut milk
• optional: 1/4 tsp of virgin coconut oil
DIRECTIONS
1. Pour all spices in a large tea cup and pour over boiling water. Stir.
2. Add cream or coconut milk and coconut oil if you choose and see how your drink becomes like… yellow milk. Drink it!
3. The spices will fall towards the bottom of the cup. I drink that also ….what a kick.
It’s Especially important to add the cayenne and or black pepper as the pepper helps with the absorption of curcumin (the active ingredient in turmeric). The same goes for fat. Make sure you get some fat either in your drink or with it.
Recipe 2 Using Something other than water
Turmeric tea (also called golden milk) is a great way to get the benefits of turmeric daily. Find out how to make this ancient health boosting drink in under 5 minutes!cashew is what i use
Golden Milk- Note I use only Cashew Milk Unsweetened
Ingredients
2 cups milk of choice such as almond, , pecan, coconut, or dairy, or use bone broth in place of the milk for a more hearty tea.
1 -2 tsp turmeric
½ tsp cinnamon powder
pinch of ground black pepper
tiny piece of fresh, peeled ginger root or ¼ tsp ginger powder
pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
1 tsp raw honey or maple syrup or to taste , you can also use stevia (optional)
Instructions
Blend all ingredients in a high-speed blender until smooth.
Pour into a small saucepan and heat for 3-5 minutes over medium heat until hot, but not boiling.
Drink immediately
Vegan Potato and Corn Chowder
Vegan Potato Corn Chowder
The best way to conquer cold bones on a chilly day is a corn chowder recipe that is easy to make and warms your bones.
Put on your comfy pants and thick socks and make a big pot of this chowder.
INGREDIENTS
•1 small onion, cut into ¼-inch dice (about 1 cup)
•4 small garlic cloves, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
•6 to 7 cups Vegtable stock or no oil, low-sodium, store-bought vegetable stock
•6 cups fresh or frozen corn kernels (from 6 fresh cobs or about 24 ounces frozen)
•1 large russet potato (about ¾ pound), scrubbed and cut into ¼-inch dice (about 3 cups)
•2 -3 cups sweet potato also diced .
•1-2 stalks celery
•1 medium red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and cut into ¼-inch dice (about 1 cup)
•1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh parsley
•1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh thyme
•1/3 cup almond flour
•Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large stew pot or Dutch oven, place the onion, garlic, and 1½ cups of the vegetable stock. Cover the pot and bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, until the onion is translucent, about 10 minutes.
2. Add the corn, potatos and 4½ cups of the remaining stock. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat and simmer until the potato is soft, 10 to 15 minutes.
3. Transfer half of the mixture to a blender and blend until smooth. Return to the pot. Add up to 1 cup stock to adjust the consistency if necessary.
4. Add the bell pepper, parsley, and thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook for another 10 minutes, until the flavors have blended and the pepper is tender.
5. Meanwhile, place the flour and 1/3 cup water in the blender and blend until smooth or whisk stir into the chowder.
Add almond milk
Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
I like top top with chives or parsley if I have them
Storage: Cool soup completely and transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for 4 to 5 days .
Also you can add 2 teaspoons yellow curry to flour for a more warming flavor
Sweet Potato Corn Chowder
I love this anytime of the year but especially when it’s cold wet and rainy out.
It’s so comforting and warming. It’s the kind of chowder that warms the bones.
I also have a vegan version I will also post.
Sweet Potato Corn Chowder
Ingredients
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 slices thick-cut bacon, cut into a small dice
3 cups diced peeled sweet potato
1 cup russet potato peeled and diced
1 carrot diced
2 medium shallots, sliced
2 cloves garlic, chopped
1 small red bell pepper, diced
1-2 stalks celery chopped
2-3 sprigs fresh thyme
1 sprig fresh sage
1 bay leaf
punch of Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons yellow curry powder
3 -4 cups corn, drained either fresh frozen or canned .
1 can of beans either navy, kidney your choice
4-5 cups chicken stock
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon sherry vinegar
1/4 cup minced chives
Directions
In a stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the bacon and cook until crispy and most of the fat is rendered, about 8 minutes. Set the bacon aside for later use, leaving 1/2 or all of the fat in the pot now add celery and carrot cook 2 minutes.
In the same pot over medium heat, saute the sweet potato, shallots, garlic and bell pepper, stirring frequently, until the shallots are tender and translucent, about 4 minutes. Add the thyme, sage and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper.
Add the flour and curry to the vegetables and stir until incorporated. Cook for another 2 minutes.Important that you do this and cook out flour curry mix for 2 minutes or it’s pasty in this recipe and we don’t want pasty.
Add the corn, chicken stock, sherry vinegar. Bring to a low simmer and cook, covered, until the sweet potato is tender, another 20 to 25 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
Now add cream. Cook 2 minutes. Once you add cream don’t bring to a boil as it will break cream.
Plate into individual bowls and garnish with the crispy bacon and chives.
Top with chives
parsley or cilantro
If you have left overs reheat on low until hot not boiling.
Gluten Free Christmas Cookies and Vegan Iced Sugar Cookies
WHAT MAKES THESE COOKIES SPECIAL
Thanks to the butter and vanilla in the recipe, these cookies melt in your mouth. Their flavor tastes like a celebration of butter, sugar, and vanilla. Since they’re rolled in powder sugar before baking, they’re left with a very light glaze that’s pretty special too!
And also below is a Vegan Iced cookie that you can use for any holiday not just Christmas.
Ingredients
• 3/4 cup finely ground white rice flour (3 ounces; 85 grams)
• 1/4 cup potato starch (1 ounce; 28 grams)
• 1/4 cup sweet rice flour (1 ounce; 28 grams)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (3 1/2 ounces; 100 grams)
• 6 tablespoons butter, softened (3 ounces; 85 grams)
• 1 large egg (1 3/4 ounces; 50 grams)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups powdered sugar (12 ounces; 340 grams)
Instructions
1 Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside.
2 Whisk together white rice flour, potato starch, sweet rice flour, baking powder, and salt in a small bowl.
3 In bowl of stand mixer, cream together butter and granulated sugar until well combined, about 45 seconds.
4 Add egg. Cream until thoroughly incorporated. Be sure to stop mixer and scrape down sides and bottom of bowl at least once.
5 Stop mixer. Add whisked dry ingredients. Turn mixer to medium-low. Mix until a dough forms.
6 Chill dough for ten minutes.
7 Scoop dough, about two teaspoons each, and toll into balls. Roll dough balls into powdered sugar. Place cookies, about two inches apart, on prepared baking pan.
8 Bake cookies for 12-15 minutes or until cookies are firm and edges are golden brown. Transfer cookies to a wire rack. Repeat with remaining dough.
And
Vegan Iced Sugar Cookies
Ingredients
• 1 1/2 cups almond flour (Bob’s Red Mill)
• 3/4 cup potato starch (not potato flour)
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon guar gum
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 cup Earth Balance Soy Free Spread, melted
• 3 tablespoons almond milk
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• FROSTING:
• 3 cups powdered sugar (Wholesome! brand is grain-free)
• 1/2 cup Earth Balance Spread
• 2 1/2 tablespoons almond milk
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Food coloring, sprinkles +royal icing (options in Tips section in post above)
Instructions
1 Preheat oven to 350 degrees
2 In a large bowl, whisk together almond flour, potato starch, sugar, guar gum + baking soda.
3 Add butter, almond milk + vanilla extract. Work wet ingredients into dry ingredients until dough forms, let dough sit 5 minutes, it will be a bit sticky.
4 Roll dough out in between 2 pieces of parchment paper (this way, it will not stick to rolling pin).
5 Cut out desired shapes, lift and peel cookies and place on parchment paper lined baking sheet. Bake at 350 degrees for about 10-12 minutes. They will be soft in the middle. Let them cool for 15 minutes uninterrupted before transferring them to a plate. Let them cool completely before decorating.
6 While cookies are cooling, blend frosting ingredients together. Then place frosting into a piping bag and decorate as desired. Store any leftovers in an airtight container. Enjoy!
Coconut & Cacao Chip Macaroons Gluten Free
Gluten Free doesn’t mean boring
These cookies are delicious and moist and gluten free!
You’ll need:
1 cup shredded unsweetened coconut
1/2 cup + 1 tsp coconut milk
4 Tbsp maple syrup
1 Tbsp coconut flour
Pinch of cinnamon
Pinch of fresh ground vanilla
Pinch of Himalayan sea salt
1/3 cup semi-sweet chocolate (or cacao) chips
How to make it:
Preheat oven to 350°F. Combine all ingredients except chocolate chips in a saucepan and stir over low heat until sticky. When the mixture is still warm, transfer to a bowl and let cool for a few minutes, then add chips. Press or scoop out small balls of mixture and place on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake 12 to 15 minutes or until tops start to lightly brown. Let cool before removing from tray.
Pain Chronic Pain
Once we accept the reality of the current moment (no matter how unpleasant it may be) for what it is, and not what we wish it were, we can turn our attention to ways to improve it. This I find true in any situation.
Living with chronic pain can throw your life upside down.
It’s hard to believe that I can and have managed my rare disease Osteonecrosis (knee) pain. And my Osteoarthritis pain.
But the pain of spondylolisthesis somedays is truly unbearable. It can just take a fabulous day day and screw it all up.
Today is one of those days.
I try to stay busy , and positive when I really would like to go somewhere and just scream at the top of my lungs.
I don’t think my neighbors would appreciate it. So I bang away at the keyboard.
Since the weather in NE Ohio has changed I am having more and more days in pain.
And in the days when all the above hurt I’m down right miserable. Thank Hod that hasn’t happened yet , but then fall and winter have only begun….
I’m grateful today it’s just my back although it feels as if I have been kicked in my L5S1 several times.
Besides having spondylolisthesis I also for the past decade or longer been dealing with osteoarthritis and osteonecrosis since 2014.
If you don’t know what they are I will explain below.
Osteoarthritis
Sometimes called degenerative joint disease or degenerative arthritis, osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common chronic condition of the joints, affecting approximately 27 million Americans. OA can affect any joint, but it occurs most often in knees, hips, lower back and neck, small joints of the fingers and the bases of the thumb and big toe.
In normal joints, a firm, rubbery material called cartilage covers the end of each bone. Cartilage provides a smooth, gliding surface for joint motion and acts as a cushion between the bones. In OA, the cartilage breaks down, causing pain, swelling and problems moving the joint. As OA worsens over time, bones may break down and develop growths called spurs. Bits of bone or cartilage may chip off and float around in the joint. In the body, an inflammatory process occurs and cytokines (proteins) and enzymes develop that further damage the cartilage. In the final stages of OA, the cartilage wears away and bone rubs against bone leading to joint damage and more pain.
Who’s Affected?
Although OA occurs in people of all ages, osteoarthritis is most common in people older than 65. Common risk factors include increasing age, obesity, previous joint injury, overuse of the joint, weak thigh muscles, and genes.
One in two adults will develop symptoms of knee OA during their lives.
One in four adults will development symptoms of hip OA by age 85. Lucky me I developed Osteoarthritis at age 45.
One in 12 people 60 years or older have hand OA.
Osteonecrosis What it is….
Osteonecrosis of the Knee. Osteonecrosis of the knee (also known as avascular necrosis) and if in the knee from a meniscus tear also called Ahlbacks Disease is a painful condition that occurs when the blood supply to a section of bone in the femur (thighbone) or tibia (shinbone) is disrupted.
I have Osteonecrosis of the medial femoral condyle due to a meniscus tear in 2014. Strange no one wanted to fix it or have any treatment plan.
This pain is like no other. Your area of Osteonecrosis is ice cold yet it often can feel like it was hit by a lightening bolt.
Weather plays a huge factor for me and my pain. I used to love winter now I can barely tolerate a cool fall day. I dread winter.
I get sick of being in pain. If it’s not the knees it’s back or hands it’s just enough to jack up my day or make things more difficult than they already are.
I have found that plant based lifestyle has helped my osteoarthritis and osteonecrosis a lot. I can’t understand why I haven’t lost a ton of weight though. I mean I don’t eat half the unhealthy calories I used to . But hey the doctors says it’s a slow thyroid.
I just wish these 40 lbs would come off it would also help my bones.
But maybe that will just take time.
If you haven’t tried a plant based lifestyle I would highly recommend it.
My cholesterol numbers are fantastic and all my doctors are impressed especially since I rarely need pain medication vs taking 2 a day like I did 3 years ago.
I truly believe that food can be your medicine or your poison.
The choice is yours.
I will be posting a lot of info and recipes
I don’t always eat perfect but life is about compromise and I follow a 90 / 10 rule.
It’s ok to have a cookie or small cupcake just make sure you eat as best as you can most of the time .
Living food is the way to go.
It may not take away all your pain but wouldn’t it be a benefit if it took away a lot of it ? And made it more managed?
Absolutely!!!
Spaghetti Squash Recipes
Spaghetti squash is often treated in an Italian manner by adding tomato sauce or herbs,
but we love to experiment.
So we have a Thai version and some easy mac and cheese
It’s not a traditional pad thai by any means,
but it’s a lovely variation.
Enjoy!
Spaghetti Squash Mac an Cheese
What You Need
2 large spaghetti squash around 5 pounds
4 ounces Gruyere about 1.5 cups shredded; I also have used Jarlsberg, and
2 ounces of white cheddar. I use sharp cheddar
2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter
2 tablespoons cornstarch
2 cups Friendly Farms 2% milk
1½ teaspoons kosher salt, divided
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
Freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
dash of paprika, for garnish
Finely chopped Italian flat leaf parsley, for garnish
What To Do
Preheat the oven to 400F.
Using a large, sharp knife, cut the spaghetti squash in half. Scrape out the seeds using a
spoon and sprinkle the cut sides with olive oil. Place the squash cut
side down on a baking sheet and roast until tender and easily pierced with a knife,
about 30 to 45 minutes depending on the size of the squash (check at 30 minutes regardless).
When the squash is done, use a fork to carefully scrape out the flesh of each half
into “noodles”, taking care to keep the squash shell intact. Place the noodles in a
colander or strainer and drain for 10 minutes to remove the extra moisture. Save the
squash shells for serving.
In a medium saucepan, heat the butter over medium-low heat until melted. Add the
cornstarch and stir until smooth. Over medium heat, cook until the mixture turns a light,
golden sandy color, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Meanwhile, heat the milk until hot (microwave in a glass measuring cup, or heat in
another pan on the stove). Gradually add the hot milk to the butter mixture, whisking
continuously until very smooth. The first addition of milk will cause the mixture to become
chunky, keep whisking and adding milk until it becomes smooth. Bring to a boil and
cook 3 to 5 minutes until very thick, whisking frequently. Remove from the heat and s
tir in 1 teaspoon kosher salt, nutmeg and several grinds black pepper. Stir in 1⅓ cups
cheese until it melts, then add the white wine vinegar and remove from the heat.
Add the drained squash into the pan, then mix it with the cheese sauce and ½ teaspoon
kosher salt. Taste and add additional salt if desired depending on the size of the squash.
Pour the mixture back into the squash shells, dividing the mixture equally among the shells.
Sprinkle each squash with the remaining cheese, then with a dusting of paprika.
Bake until cheese melts, about 10 minutes.
To serve, sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve warm
Spaghetti Squash Pad Thai
What You Need
1 large spaghetti squash
Fresh ground black pepper
4 carrots
½ red pepper
4 cloves garlic
3 stalks celery
6 green onions
2 eggs
1 tablespoon miso paste
½ cup chopped fresh cilantro
3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 lime
Sriracha (optional)
2 tablespoons peanut oil
1 and ½ cup bean sprouts, divided
½ cup roasted salted peanuts, chopped
1 teaspoon sesame seeds
a small dash of sesame oil also as a garnish
What To Do
Preheat oven to 400°F.
Using a large, sharp knife, cut the spaghetti squash in half. Scrape out the seeds using a
spoon and sprinkle the cut sides with olive oil. Season with a dash of salt and freshly ground
black pepper. Place the squash cut side down on a baking sheet and roast until tender and
easily pierced with a knife, about 45 minutes. When the squash is done, use a fork to scrape
out the flesh of each half into “noodles”. Place the noodles in a colander or sieve and drain
for 10 minutes to remove the extra moisture.
Meanwhile, peel and shred 3 carrots. Thinly slice ½ red pepper. Mince 4 cloves garlic.
Thinly slice 4 green onions. In a small bowl, beat together 2 eggs. Separately, thinly slice
1 green onion and chop ½ cup of fresh cilantro.
In another small bowl, mix together 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce, 3 tablespoons soy sauce,
juice of ½ lime, and if desired, a few dashes of Sriracha.
When the squash is ready, in a large skillet heat 2 tablespoons peanut oil over
medium high heat. Add the garlic and green onions cook until fragrant, about 45 seconds.
Pour in the eggs and scramble until almost cooked. Add the red pepper, carrots, 1 cup bean sprouts,
and squash noodles. Add 3 pinches kosher salt and toss together. Pour on the sauce and stir to
combine. Cook about 2 minutes, until the vegetables are heated through but still crisp.
Garnish with plenty of crushed peanuts, fresh bean sprouts, cilantro, and green onion
#Food
#Healthy
ChronicallyGratefulDebla.com
Chocolate Cherry Energy Balls
They store well, so they are ideal for a quick snacks and they are so delicious that it’s hard to stop at two.
I have to make a double batch to enjoy throughout the week.
Chocolate Cherry Energy Balls
INGREDIENTS:
•1 cup rolled oats
•12 dates, pitted (½ cup)
•¼ cup slivered almonds
•¼ cup grain-sweetened chocolate chips
•16 dried cherries (1 ounce)
•1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
•¾ teaspoon sea salt
Coconut to roll some of the finished ones in for a variety.
These chocolate chip treats are so yummy and packed full of goodness I call them Energy balls.
They are so delicious that it’s nearly impossible to stop at one and even difficult to stop at two.
I suggest you make a double batch to enjoy throughout the week.
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Combine the oats, dates, almonds, chocolate chips, cherries, vanilla, and salt in a food processor. Pulse until coarsely chopped and the mixture starts to bind. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons of water if needed, to help bind.
3. For each energy ball, scoop 1 tablespoon of the mixture, gently roll it into a ball, and place on the prepared baking sheet. Be careful not to compact your balls.
4. Bake for 20 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to let cool.
Ones also topped with coconut
Apple Cake
Ummm, apple-icious
Apple Cake
• 1/2 pound of butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups plus
• 1 tablespoon of honey
• 5 eggs, beaten
• 3 tablespoons of vanilla
• 1 cup of yogurt (or buttermilk)
• 2 1/2 cups of unbleached flour
• 2 cups of whole wheat pastry flour
• 2 teaspoons of baking powder
• 2 teaspoons of baking soda
• 1 teaspoon of nutmeg
• 4 teaspoons of cinnamon
• 3/4 cup of chopped walnuts
• 3 1/2 cups of chopped apples, mixed types
Cream the butter and honey together until smooth. Add the beaten eggs, vanilla, and yogurt, and stir well. In a separate (large) bowl, combine the flours, baking powder, baking soda, and spices. Add the butter/honey mixture, the chopped walnuts and the apples, and stir everything together. Pour the batter into two greased 9″ round pans, and bake at 350°F for about 45 minutes, until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove the pans from the oven, let the cakes cool, and serve portions with whipped cream.
Vegetable Sushi
This recipe is very versatile as you can use any ingredients you like. Sushi is very good for you and is absolutely delicious as well as being easy and enjoyable to make!
Ingredients
For the rice:
2 cups short-grain Japanese rice, rinsed
1/4 cup rice vinegar
1 tablespoons sugar
For the rolls:
10 nori sheets (dried seaweed), halved
Sesame seeds, for sprinkling
1 cucumber
1 avocado
1 plum tomato, seeded
1 small red onion
20 asparagus spears, trimmed and blanched
Wasabi paste, for spreading and serving
1 romaine lettuce heart
Pickled ginger, for serving
Directions
Make the rice. Combine the rice and 2 cups water in a rice cooker and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions. A rice cooker is the best way to get perfect sticky-firm rice, but if you don’t have one, just use a saucepan.
Fold in the vinegar. Combine the vinegar, sugar and 1 teaspoon salt in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring to dissolve the sugar. Transfer the cooked rice to a large wooden bowl (traditionally, a wooden tub). Drizzle a quarter of the vinegar mixture over a wooden spoon or spatula onto the rice. Fold the rice gently with the spoon to cool it and break up any clumps; be careful not to smash the grains. Fold in the remaining vinegar mixture and let the rice sit 5 minutes. Spread the rice.
Cover a bamboo sushi mat with plastic wrap. Place a half nori sheet rough-side up on the mat. Moisten your hands and scoop a handful of rice, slightly larger than a lemon, onto the nori. Press the rice to spread it evenly up to the edges of the nori, moistening your fingers as you go. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Prepare the vegetables. Peel the cucumber and slice into matchsticks. (Morimoto cuts the entire cucumber into a paper-thin sheet, then quickly slices it into strips-but he’s had some practice.) Thinly slice the avocado, tomato and red onion; peel the tough ends of the asparagus. Add the filling. Carefully flip over the nori so it’s rice-side down on the mat with the short end facing you. Spread a bit of wasabi paste in a line about one-third of the way up the nori-it’s spicy, so use it sparingly.
Arrange a few pieces each of lettuce, cucumber, avocado, tomato and onion in a tight pile in the lower third of the sheet. It’s OK if the vegetables hang over the edges of the nori. Roll the sushi. Roll the sushi away from you with your hands, tucking in the vegetables as you go. Remove the mat from under the roll and place it on top.
Press the roll into a compact rectangular log, using the mat to help you. Slice the roll. Cut the sushi roll into 4 to 6 pieces. Repeat with the remaining nori, rice and vegetables. 
Serve with pickled ginger and more wasabi.
Pasta and Chimichurri Sauce
I love to cook. But sometimes when your not feeling up to par I like something healthy and fast without ordering take out.
This dish is on the table in no time.
Enjoy
Pasta and Chimichurri
•16oz angel hair pasta
Sauce
•1 1/2 cup parsley
•2 fresh basil leaves
•4 cloves garlic
•Juice of half a lemon (1-2 tbsp)
•1 cup olive oil
•2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
•½ tsp ground black pepper
•Salt to taste
•Parmesan for topping (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
1. In a large pot of salted water, cook pasta 1 minute less than package instructions
2. Drain pasta
3. In a food processor, combine parsley, basil,, garlic, lemon juice, red pepper flakes and olive oil until a pesto-like sauce forms.
4. Put pasta back in (slightly cooled) pot and pour 1/4 cup sauce over the pasta. Toss with tongs until evenly coated.Add more if required.
5. Add salt and pepper to taste and toss.
6. Top with parmesan, if desired.
Store any unused sauce in frig in airtight mason jar. Store up to 2 weeks
Sauce can also be used on chicken, turkey ,beef,fish or shrimp as a marinade.
I also make my sauce the day before so flavors get in the oil.
Tip when I would use on steak or chicken with a twist I also would add 1 roasted jalapeño and also add 1 handful of cilantro to above mixture.
BLT Pasta Salad
BLT Pasta Salad
Serves 8
This bacon, lettuce and tomato pasta salad is great for a lunch or fast dinner night.
INGREDIENTS
3 cups uncooked bow tie pasta
8 cups torn romaine lettuce
2 medium tomato, diced
8 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
1/4 onion diced
2/3 cup ranch dressing
1 Tablespoon barbecue sauce
1/4 teaspoon pepper
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain. Then rinse pasta under cold water briefly and drain.
2. In a large bowl, combine the romaine lettuce, tomato, bacon and pasta.
3. Drizzle the ranch dressing and barbecue sauce over the top. Gently toss to coat evenly. Season with pepper. Serve immediately and enjoy!
