2016 we did a little research in to plant based eating, as I had a health problem Diverticular Disease so we changed the way we eat and love it.. Lets try a little plant based cooking Soups and stews. making meat an ingredient if you must use.. We are about 80 % plant based, once in a while I will add a meat. I love to cook from scratch, this takes a little more organised.. Keeping a stocked pantry . David calls me the Intuitive Chef, I feel what needs to go int to the recipe.. I love soups and stews and a veggie Chilli 2 soups I made this month are Tomato Basil and a Mushroom soup , i make a home made baguette with these oh my goodness.. Eating this way definitley make you feel healthier..
One of our fave soups Wicked Thai Coconut shrimp soup. From scratch.
Veggie stew tonight with dumpling Carrots, purple top turnips , parsnips, onions a little hot pepper, potatoes, garlic black pepper veggie stock. A little apple cider vinegar. Te hydrated portobello mushrooms, white kidney beans and baked beans
Back by popular demand @jamieoliver Garlic mushrooms. A Fungi supper with a fun guy Cooking plant based is fun recreating dishes , add your twist to it ..I love getting inspiration from cooking shows like Bobby Flay and Jamie Oliver
@jamieoliver Sicilian pasta with Tuna. Smells amazing tastes even better ty Jamie for these incredible dishes. Quick and easy , healthy also I make an amazing Cesar Salad Dressing
Veggie chilli, 4 different beans your choice 1 AnaheimPepper a red Fresno pepper with half seeds out.. fresh tomatoes, onion, Chilli powder , smoked paprika, fresh ground black pepper a splat of apple cider vinegar
Next blog post I will share a few of my recipes, I love going to Save on Foods, Super Store or Sobeys for amazing fresh veggies .. I love cooking and My cooking is love.. David and I most weekends will cook together , we put on a great playlist and cook up a storm Eat to live and don’t live to eat!!
It has been a while since I blogged on here, Life has been very crazy, In June we got a new puppy, a springer Spaniel named Lucy, she just turned 6 months old, she is great company for George
Since January I have been working at our local hospital, Working in food services and I am loving it. Most shifts I walk 10 k in the 8 hours.. We are still watching our diets eating mainly plant based foods and coking from scratch.. We had a very quiet Thanksgiving , I made @JamieOlivers rustic bread , Mushroom soup using Shitake, Cremini, and white mushrooms , we had Truffle Chicken, Asparagus wrapped in procutto, roast potatoes and mash potatoes from out garden, David also made his sage and onion stuffing the house smelled great only thing was it was only David and I .. A new fave dish I make about once a month is a tribute to Anthony Bourdain, he made a Portuguese fish stew, it is pretty amazing..Along with Jamie Olivers rustic Bread I love this recipe.
A new fave recipe is on I saw Jamie Oliver make Sicilian Pasta with Tuna, This is amazing and only a few ingredients to this dish, and 15 mins to make as long as it takes to cook to cook pasta shells!! It is a budget friendly meal and Oh so tasty.. I will write more later in the week and maybe post my amazing cheese sauce recipe.. David isn’t a cheese sauce guy, but I managed to convert him, when ever I cook cauliflower I had to make a white sauce and a cheese sauce, lol not anymore I just make my cheese sauce.. I hope all my friends and family in England had a happy safe Guy Fawkes Night Stay safe y’all
This is my one of fave times of the year!! The fall colours are amazing, but sad to see my garden dying .. BUT it is also a great time for home made soups!! Pickling, this year I made a Tomato Chutney, from the tomatoes in my garden and a batch of tomato sauce for pizza or pasta..
Oh I made a batch of pickled red onions to these are great on burgers, salads, grilled cheese and much more!!
This soup is a lentil soup and so easy and budget friendly!!
Lentil Soup
1 medium Onion Diced
2 tsp minced garlic
3 carrots diced
2 cups lentils
4 cups veggie stock
2 medium potatoes diced salt and pepper to taste
2 tbl spoons olive oil
in a soup pot place onions, carrots, potatoes and olive oil sauce, then add spices lentils and stock, bring to the boil and simmer for 1 hour.. Amazing
Cooking for me is good for the soul, def a stress relief!! Next weekend is Ians Birthday and we are having a Birthday/ early Thanksgiving dinner !! There will be lots of pics as it is going to be a family get together Here is a recipe Cabbage Soup..
Ingredients
2 leeks, well washed
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons butter
5 cups chicken stock or veg stock
1 small cabbage, cored and roughly chopped
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon turmeric
1/8 teaspoon mace
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper
Cut the leeks into 2 inch pieces; combine with the onion and saute in the butter over low heat until the veggies are soft, about 5 minutes
Add the rest of the ingredients and bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the cabbage is tender. Test the seasoning and add more if necessary. Serve very hot. Budget friendly have with some home made buns
This weeks was great we went to the park with Asher and Katie then the next day Katie and Asher came for a visit!! Amazing week, Ian our son came back for work 16 day shifts .. Family is amazing Live , Laugh and love this is something my mom taught me!! Next Blog is back to Christmas Traditions I believe it will be Welsh Traditions Love Y’all Stay Safe
September is here the garden is beginning to look very sad, but walking the trails with David and my dog George this morning , I did notice how the fall colours are here, I love the fall colours.. This week I made my Christmas Cakes, used my Marks and Spencers recipe, last year I used Jamie Olivers and the year before Paul Holly Woods, this year back to my reg recipe.. I am steaming my Christmas Puddings, I male them about every 4 yrs, depending on how many I give away as gifts.. I use the recipe from Floyd on Britain. and Ireland .. It is amazing so light not like a brick.. I put fresh fruit in instead of the mixed peel.. I also added a little extra Brandy !
My Christmas Cake I have made since we emigrated 1980.
Recipe: Step 1 – make the cake
Ready in 5 hours, plus overnight soaking and feeding Serves 20
Ingredients
750g mixed sultanas and currants 200g ready-to-eat dried apricots, chopped 100g glacé cherries, rinsed and chopped 100g dried cranberries 2 oranges, both zested, 1 juiced 150ml brandy, sweet sherry or Marsala (plus extra for feeding) 325g unsalted butter, softened, plus extra for greasing 225g light muscovado sugar 100g golden caster sugar 5 medium eggs 300g plain flour 75g ground almonds ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda 1 tsp mixed spice 1 tsp ground ginger 100g almonds, finely chopped 1 tbsp golden syrup
Method
In a medium-sized, non-metallic bowl, mix together the dried fruit, orange zest and juice and brandy. Cover with clingfilm and leave in a cool, dark place to soak overnight.
Use a deep, 23cm cake tin. Cut two circles of baking parchment to fit the base of the tin. Measure the circumference of the tin with a piece of string, then use it as a guide to cut a strip of paper long enough to line the sides of the tin, and two and a half times the depth. Fold this strip in half lengthways, then make snips at 2.5cm intervals along the fold.
Grease the base of the tin and put in one circle of parchment. Grease the sides of the tin and insert the folded strip of paper, pressing down the snipped edges on the base. Finally, place the second disc on top to secure the snipped edges in place. Heat the oven to 140°C/120°C fan/ gas 1.
Beat together the butter and sugars with an electric whisk until light and fluffy followed by the eggs, one at a time. Combine the flour, ground almonds, bicarbonate of soda, mixed spice and ground ginger and fold into the butter mixture. Add the chopped almonds and syrup to the soaked fruit, then fold into the mixture.
Spoon it into the prepared tin and bake on the bottom shelf of the oven for 4-4½ hours, until the top is dark golden and a skewer inserted into the cake comes out clean.
Leave to cool on a cooling rack, then remove from the tin. Use a skewer to pierce the top of the cake at regular intervals and carefully spoon over 2 tbsp of brandy, so that it soaks in.
Wrap the cake in two layers of fresh baking parchment, then in foil. Feed it with alcohol every two weeks (up to three times before Christmas). Don’t overdo it or your cake will go soggy. It’s also best not to feed it for a week before you ice it. It will keep for up to three months if stored in an airtight tin in a cool, dark place
The earliest you should ice your cake is one week before Christmas. Our quantities are for a 23cm-diameter cake
Ingredients
750g ready-to-roll marzipan 2 tbsp apricot jam Icing sugar, for dusting 1kg ready-to-roll fondant icing
Method
Place your cake on a cake board or stand. If it has a bumpy top, carefully slice across it to even it out, then turn over so you have a smooth surface to ice
Put the apricot jam into a small saucepan with 2 tsp water and warm it until it loosens. Strain it through a sieve into a small bowl and use a pastry brush to apply a thin layer to the top and sides of the cake
Measure over the top and sides of the cake with string. This will be your guide to the size of the circles of marzipan and fondant icing you need to roll out
Lightly dust a clean work surface and rolling pin with icing sugar. Knead the marzipan for 2 minutes until pliable.
Roll the marzipan into a circle to cover the cake, plus a little extra. Turn the marzipan every few rolls so that it doesn’t stick to the surface – use a little more icing sugar if you need to. Fold the marzipan onto the rolling pin, and lift it onto the cake. Working from the top, carefully smooth the marzipan over the sides of the cake with your hands. With a small, sharp knife, cut away the excess marzipan. Leave the cake uncovered for 24-48 hours, to let the marzipan dry out a little
When you are ready to ice, brush a small amount of water over the marzipan. Knead the fondant icing until pliable. Lightly dust the work surface and rolling pin with icing sugar – try not to use too much or the fondant icing will dry out and may crack
Using string as a guide as before, repeat step 5 using the icing instead of marzipan. Trim of any excess icing with a small sharp knife.
I have cooked a Floyd’s Christmas Pudding for years , I do them every 4 or 5 yrs depending on how many I gift , I usually double the recipe
Christmas pudding from Floyd on Britain and Ireland (page 208) by Keith Floyd Ingredients Notes (0) Reviews (0) 2 tbsp brandy Pinch each ground cinnamon, ground ginger, ,mace, nutmeg & salt Grated rind & juice 1/2 orange and 1/2 lemon 4 oz each raisins & sultanas 1 small eating apple, grated
1 fresh lemon , juice and rind
1 fresh Orange juice and rind 4 oz suet 5 oz currants 4 oz brown sugar 5 oz white breadcrumbs 4 oz plain flour 3 oz candied peel & cherries I leave out the candied peel this is why I put in fresh orange and lemon 2 large eggs, beaten Milk to mix
Grease a 2 pt pudding basin. Place the dry ingredients in a bowl with the juices and mix well. Add the eggs, brandy and enough milk to make a soft dropping consistency. Cover and leave to stand overnight. Stir well and put into basin, cover with greaseproof paper then a piece of foil pleated across the centre. Secure with string Steam for 6-7 hours, topping up the water as required. Store in a cool, dry place. To serve, steam for a further 3 hours then turn out.
Marks and Spencers Christmas Cake the best , I have made these since we married and emigrated here too Canada making this a tradition for my family, my kids will start their own traditions with luck keeping some old traditions. The Kitchen scales are about 40 yrs old, my mom bought them for me, when we looked after her dog Mandy , for 2 weeks, that little girl, didn’t want to go home.. It has been a busy couple of weeks as I started to Crochet toques, scarfs and Christmas Hanging towels for gifts.. As we don’t know what the next few months will bring, there is a big up serge in Covid 19 cases here in Fort McMurray. David and I are staying close to home and washing our hands and using sanitizer when we have to.. Every day I wash down the kitchen and high traffic surfaces with a bleach solution!!
One day this week we made English Fish and Chips with breaded Shrimp and a home made slaw. Amazing.. It was Aaron’s Birthday we as a family unit, had a Birthday for him. Ong Asher was such a little Charmer, with his Hawaiian shirt on and trilby hat ..
Christmas was one of my Moms fave seasons, she get up in an orphanage, was Neve adopted, so she never had a lot. My Mom ( Mam) had a huge heart and would have helped anyone. She always made us an amazing Christmas.. I remember talking with my mom about the orphanage and one of her fave Christmas gifts was. a small dolly made from a clothes Peg.. I can not imagine her child hood, at the age or 16 she was in Service meaning she was cooking and cleaning in a well to do house.. This house was that of a well to do Family, my mom was raped had a baby and it also was put up for adoption and never spoken of.. Different times .. it may have looked like this one.. My mom was an amazing lady, kind, a huge part, funny .. My mom was Christmas!! In my early teens, I met the love of my life, and still is the love of my life.. Now I am like my Mom I love Christmas and making it fun and exciting for family and friends.
UK is made up of England , Ireland , Scotland and Wales!! You would think all the holiday Traditions are the same, they are Similar and Unique Traditions, lets take a wee peak in to these !!
these unique Christmas traditions, as well as their own special holidays that no other nations or cultures celebrate. These holiday traditions can tell us a lot about our family backgrounds and give us insight into the lives of our ancestors. clues to family heritage, traditions of our ancestors is Huge, if we don’t carry on these traditions they die, people forget ! If you are of Irish descent, here are some unique Christmas traditions that you may or may not know about. Each one offers a little insight into the lives of ancestors both recent and long ago.! I love to learn about this and carry on traditions with my family!! Now Grand Children
Irish Christmas
A Candle in the Window:
This is one of the most common Irish Christmas traditions. It is exactly what it says it is… placing a candle in a window. For Sailors to find their way home..Irish would put a candle in the window in a position to make sure it was visible to anyone who was passing by. To light the path of those out on the streets after dark. This tradition faded away for a while, then came back to popularity in the 1970s. This still used by some families, both Irish and Irish-inspired. Today, those who use it do so as an homage to those seeking shelter, like Mary and Joseph when they were searching for a place to stay so Mary could give birth.
Holly on the Door: This is a common Irish Christmas tradition ( UK). It started after England took over governance of Ireland, Irish didn’t have much extra money to buy holiday decorations. Because holly was something that grew easily in cold climates, it was something they could acquire for free to decorate their homes and make them more festive. I remember Collecting Holly for our house, love the red and green..
Little Christmas: A fun fact of Irish Christmases is that it is considered bad luck to take Christmas trees or other holiday decorations down before January 6, ( We also did this in the England ) which is known in Ireland as “Little Christmas.” This “Little Christmas” is also traditionally a “girls’ night out” in Ireland, as well. Hmm I may have to start this one!! LOL
Santa Claus, Father Christmas, Jolly Old Saint Nick, Santa is a part of Christmas in Ireland, and all over the world, However, there are a few wee differences, how he delivers his gifts, on the Emerald Isle. The first difference is that he does not leave presents under the Christmas tree. Instead, he leaves them at the foot of the bed of a child in most cases he leaves them inside a pillowcase, and sometimes he leaves them in a special Christmas bag, we did this. Oh so exciting
Santas Snack, In Ireland the snack the children leave for Santa as in other parts of the world. Ireland had a wee twist , Instead of leaving milk and cookies out for Santa, children leave a mince pie and a glass of Guinness for Jolly Old Saint Nick as he makes his way across Ireland. A carrot is also often left out for Santa’s reindeer. After all, they need to eat, too. Hahaha We didn’t t leave a glass of Guinness it was usually a glass of Sherry!! And a Carrot for Rudolph.
A Celtic Kiss Mistletoe: A Celtic tradition? It is thought that it originated with the Celts. A pagan tradition, How it became associated with kissing isn’t clear, and may or may not be of Celtic origin. However, the celebration of the plant itself is definitely a Celtic thing. My Mom had a Plastic Mistletoe she brought our every year.. I remember our first house in Morton Street, I pout Ian in the Stroller he was only 2 yrs old. and walked up to Carlisle Market to by Holly and Mistletoe ,. I put up the Holly the phone rang, I got back to the mistletoe Ian had eaten some berries, I put him in his stroller and took him to the hospital Emerg, they gave him something to make him sick and said it will only give him the runs!! End of this story
It’s commonly found in Wales, the West Midlands and the South of England, with particularly large populations in Gwent, Herefordshire, Worcestershire, Gloucestershire and Somerset.
To our ancestors, Irish Christmas recipes didn’t come in beautiful books filled with pretty pictures. They didn’t need to. The winter festival was a time to celebrate using cooking methods that had been handed down, usually orally, through the generations.
Christmas in Ireland : markets
In the 18th and 19th centuries, The Margadh Mor the Big Market kickstarted the countdown to Christmas in Ireland.
Its alternative name the Live market was perhaps a better description because this is where the fowl (turkeys, goose, hens) were sold alive.
In the third week, the Dead Market took place. You can work out why. At this market, too, were bought new clothes, whiskey, sweets, tobacco and all the ingredients for a Christmas pudding.
The latter, which bears little resemblence to the modern Irish plum pudding, was boiled on Christmas Eve after the home had been decorated with laurel, holly and ivy.
Geese, ducks, great sides of beef, sheep and pork were turned on the roasting spit in the halls of chieftains in early Christian and medieval times.
In later centuries, the spit had become the kitchen oven and, by the late 18th century, vegetables and fruits began to feature more heavily on the table during the Irish Christmas.
Recipes using beef suet, mixed dried fruit and whiskey in cakes and puddings not terribly dissimilar to those that make an appearance on our modern festive tables every year started to acquire a seasonal status. I use suet in my Christmas Puddings they are amazing
Now little from my week , we have been keeping busy, its getting cooler and I love to be in the Kitchen when the weather is cooler , making soups and stews, Home Cooking!! I made some Home Made Macaroni and Cheese , oh my goodness it was amazing.. We visited our grandson Asher He is such a joy, we love being Grandparents, We have 3 grans Children Colin, Bailey and Asher.. Today I made a Guacamole Dip , this week I got 2 #HUGS4COPS blankets to 2 amazing First Responders on in Edmonton and one here is Fort McMurray!! I also started Crocheting Head Bands and a few Toques, David also fixed the hot tub that had a leak, now I am well i am able to go in the Hot tub, I listened to a little Luke Bryan!! my way of relaxing.. Love Y’all please stay Safe and keep that Social Distancing ..
England, Scotland , Ireland and Wales are steeped in traditions and great recipes. I will just touch on a few .. Soup of the day Cock a leek Soup!! After a long hard day hunting Haggis on the Highlands ( LOL) coming back to a hearty bowl of this amazing soup, consisting of leeks, Carrots, celery and chicken.. After we put a Hutterite chicken on the rotisserie, and had an amazing Family supper, I boiled the carcas, it is surprising how much meat is actually on the carcas!! Slice and dice all veggies, and bacon sauté in Veg Oil, add salt, pepper garlic and herbs ,and pearl barley ( or Rice) bring to boil then simmer for 1 hour..
Haggis a myth has a Haggis ever run the highlands wild and free!!??
Serve with a crusty fresh made bread!! All you need after a day hunting Haggis ( LOL )
If you believe a haggis is an iconic Scottish dish of sheep’s stomach stuffed with spiced innards and oatmeal, haggis’s Myth states the wild haggis: a creature with four legs and a shaggy mane. Not a Sheeps Stomach filled with oatmeal and sheeps innards ..
Legend surrounds the wild haggis. According to many cryptid directories, the wild haggis is an unbalanced beast whose legs of unequal length enable it to lope up steep Scottish hillsides with ease. for wild haggi, with their babies, hagglets to “graze along the steep mountain slopes and move through the heather. It is a 4 legged creature with 2 short legs on one side for walking on the Highlands ( LOL) found this pic on line of a full grown Haggis Mac-Haggi
Tartan & Kilts. Kilts are one of the most iconic items associated with Scotland. …
Bagpipes. The sound of the bagpipes can often be heard all over Scottish towns and cities; whether it’s pipers entertaining passers-by, pipe bands in parades or at the world famous Highland games. …
Ceilidhs. …
Highland Games. ..
Weddings
For Robbie Burns Birthday we created a Bard Pie omg it was amazing Def doing this for Robbie Burns Birthday next year!!
Scottish ShortBread
Not a Bread, This is from Historic-UK.com thought it was very interesting
The History of Scottish Shortbread
Scottish cooks have always been famous for their soups, haggis (a dish traditionally served on Burns Night) and their baking, especially scones, pancakes, fruit cakes, oatcakes and shortbread.
The story of shortbread begins with the medieval “biscuit bread”. Any leftover dough from bread making was dried out in a low oven until it hardened into a type of rusk: the word “biscuit” means “twice cooked”. Gradually the yeast in the bread was replaced by butter, and biscuit bread developed into shortbread.
Shortbread was an expensive luxury and for ordinary people, shortbread was a special treat reserved just for special occasions such as weddings, Christmas and New Year. In Shetland it was traditional to break a decorated shortbread cake over the head of a new bride on the threshold of her new home. The custom of eating shortbread at New Year has its origins in the ancient pagan Yule Cakes which symbolised the sun. In Scotland it is still traditionally offered to “first footers” at New Year.
Shortbread has been attributed to Mary, Queen of Scots, who in the mid-16th century was said to be very fond of Petticoat Tails, a thin, crisp, buttery shortbread originally flavoured with caraway seeds.
There are two theories regarding the name of these biscuits. It has been suggested that the name “petticoat tail”
Traditional Scottish shortbread biscuits may in fact date back beyond the 12th century. The theory here is that the name may have come from the word for the pattern which was ‘tally’, and so the biscuits became known as ‘petticoat tallis’. to resemble the petticoat ary Queen pf Scotts wore alone with other ladies!!
Shortbread is traditionally formed into one of three shapes: one large circle divided into segments (“Petticoat Tails”); individual round biscuits (“Shortbread Rounds”); or a thick rectangular slab cut into “fingers.”
There are many different recipes and regional variations for shortbread. The following recipe uses rice flour to give a slightly grainy texture:
Scottish Shortbread
6 oz. plain flour ~ 2oz. caster sugar ~ 1 oz. icing sugar ~ 2 oz. rice flour ~ 5 oz. butter ~ pinch of salt Instead of the rice flour I use corn starch!
Preheat oven to 140°C (280°F or Gas mark 2). In a mixing bowl, cream together the sugars and the butter. Sift in the flours and salt: work by hand to a stiff dough. Roll out the dough to 1/2 inch thickness. Form either into a round or into fingers and prick with a fork. Bake in the oven until light golden brown, around 30 – 40 minutes.
How about Tattie Scones hmm Delish
Tattie Scones are made with mashed potato and butter , with salt to taste. Plain flour is added to make it into a dough which is then rolled out and put on a grill skillet to cook and are flat. They are traditionally served hot, and cold potato scones are often reheated by toasting or frying. Potato scones are made with a small proportion of flour to a large proportion of potatoes: one traditional recipe calls for two ounces of flour and half an ounce of butter to a pound of potatoes. A version of the scone is made in circles about 6 inches across and then cut into quarters. They are about an inch thick, more than what is usually considered a scone. They are served as part of the “full Scottish breakfast” (and England, Wales and Ulster have their own variations) with fried eggs, square sausage, black pudding, bacon usually Ayrshire bacon!! , baked beans and grilled or fried tomato with mushrooms. Mushroom are an option They are often eaten in a roll with “just” the fried egg, sausage and bacon Yummy I have made these and they are delish.. I feel a weekend Brunch coming on 🙂 Potato scones originated as a Scottish these are a type of quick bread. Originally made with oats and griddle-baked, today’s version is more often made with flour and baked in the oven. Some claim it comes from the Dutch word ‘schoonbrot’, which means beautiful bread, while others argue it comes from Stone of Destiny, where the Kings of Scotland were crowned, I think it is the stone of Destiny!! Sounds Romantic! According to Webster’s Dictionary, scones originated in Scotland in the early 1500s. I love finding out about these ethnic foods and traditions..
Christmas in Scotland
What is a traditional Scottish Christmas dinner?Dishes like Roast Pork, Glazed Ham, Roast Angus Beef, Steak pie, Roast Leg of Lamb are also served at the Christmas dining table. For dessert, the most traditional is the Christmas pudding, usually served with brandy sauce cream. Turkey is the Norm now!!
Hogmanay to New Years Eve!!!
Hogmanay is what we Scots call New Year’s Eve – 31 December – the big night that marks the arrival of the new year. Its origins reach back to the celebration of the winter solstice among the Vikings with wild parties in late December.
An English Christmas Is very much the same today!! This is pretty much how we used to celebrate Christmas minus the Wassail
Christmas crackers add a bit of pop to dinner! a def must have for the silly jokes and paper crowns ..
like the main staples of decorating your home, putting up a tree, exchanging presents and having a mid-day dinner. We usually have some one at our Christmas Table that is alone ay Christmas, no one should be alone at Christmas..
1. Letters to Santa I children to write letters to Santa Claus. But, the Brits take it a step further and burn the letters in the fireplace so the ashes fly up the chimney and Father Christmas can read the smoke. I remember doing this, modern day the children write or email a letter to Santa.
2. Stockings Rather than hanging stockings above the fireplace, British children hang them at the end of their bed hoping they will be filled by Christmas morning. That would be a nice surprise to wake up to. At the same time it might be difficult for “Santa” to fill without waking the wee ones. We also had a Pillowcase Santa filled with our Christmas Presents . in the stocking was usually Oranges.Nuts a fe candies and a Christmas Cracker today it is a little different
3. Crackers The cracker is a paper tube, covered in foil, twisted at both ends. It’s shaped like a large sweet with hidden treasures inside. Each person crosses their arms, using their right hand to hold their cracker, and pulling their neighbor’s cracker with their left. POP! The cracker will make a bit of a bang with the contents spilling out which usually is a joke to be read at the dinner table, a small trinket and a paper crown. I Love the Cracker Jokes, LOL
4. Crown Everyone is a king on Christmas! The paper crowns are made of tissue paper and unfold into an actual crown. Adults and children alike don the crown making it a colorful sight. The paper hat was added to the crackers in the early 1900s and the tradition has carried on. I believe in carrying on Christmas Traditions, it is very important for the children!
5. Mid-Day Dinner Christmas dinner is similar to that of the U.S. with a roast turkey, goose or chicken and trimmings. But, there are some specialty items that aren’t as common such as parsnips which are a root vegetable similar to a carrot. It’s a familiar taste but it’s fun to incorporate a new veggie to the table. Brits love their pudding, I make my own Christmas Puddings , lots of dried and fresh fruit with suet, steamed for a few hours , add a Brandy Sauce oh my goodness.. I make a traditional English trifle or at least the way my mom did, delicious.
Our Family tradition now is Having Christmas Dinner at Kate and Aarons, I used to do Christmas Dinner , once Kate and Aaron got Married they took over this tradition and now Aarons family and Kates Family all enjoy a fabulous Christmas Dinner at Kate and Aaron house..
6. Wassail Wassa-what? Wassail literally means “good health” or to “be healthy” and in this case is a hot, mulled drink. There are different ways to serve it like a hot cider but it may also be made with a base of wine. It was originally topped with slices of toast as sops (piece of bread to soak up the liquid.) We did not do tis but had Egg nogg yummy
7. Royal Christmas Message The tradition of sending out a Christmas Message to the public began in 1932 with George V. Current day the Queen gives a speech on Christmas Day at 3pm in England. We always watched the Queens Speech!!
8. Tea Christmas tea usually rolls around 6pm and it is round two of a sit down with family and treats. Pretty much, any proper English event involves tea. Mince pies or sausage rolls, various Cheese and crackers like Jacobs, or Carrs Water Biscuits.. and Trifle..
9. Boxing Day Boxing Day follows Christmas day and is a nationally recognized holiday in the UK, also called a bank holiday. It was originally the day for servants and tradesman to receive presents from their employers but it’s now basically a big shopping day for Brits. For Us this was anther family day, David and I usually have a high Boxingday Supper for Family and friends , Turkey
10. Next Year Brits say you need to take your tree and decorations down within 12 days of Christmas or you’ll have bad luck for the next year. Don’t be that house on the street with blinking lights that go on through Valentine’s Day! Get that stuff down and get on with the New Year!
will be making my Christmas Cakes again this year , family and friend receive a small one, made with Dried fruit and lots of other goodie, I usually bake the one from The Marks and Spencer Cook Book.. I love Christmas and get so excited at the preparation, for this amazing day!!! Stay Safe Y’all
Today’s culinary delight !! good for our The gut microbiome A bean stew with White Kidney beans h haricot beans , some leafy greens Swiss Chard, Parsley and thyme, tomatoes green and red from my garden..
Yesterday I made a Texas Caviar made with Black eye peas, a home made tomatoe basil soup did use 2 cans of tomatoes but everything else was fresh, then made home made scotch Baps omg
Diet and gut health are very closely linked. Try to avoid processed foods, high-fat foods, and foods high in refined sugars this is very important in maintenance for a healthy microbiome, as these foods destroy good bacteria and promote growth of damaging bacteria. There are also a number of foods you can eat that actively promote the growth of good bacteria, contributing to your overall health. We started to change our Diet 2015, adding theses foods to our diet as I had a lot of gut problems.. After 2 surgeries I am watching my gut health more than ever.. Eat a High Fibre Diet, legumes, beans, peas, oats, bananas, berries, asparagus, and leeks have shown a positive impact on gut health, I love all of these. Garlic and Onions, may have some anti-cancer and immune system-enhancing properties . I cook with lots of these!! Another great food or foods are Fermented ones such as kimchi, sauerkraut, yogurt, tempeh, miso, and kefir are great dietary sources of probiotics, also are in many varying ways their benefits on the gut microbiome big fan of these foods..!! I am a fan of making my own broths, bone broth, or Salmon, fish stock may be beneficial to overall health and gut health !! Cooking from Scratch..
Another important benefit is to Eat, sleep, and be healthy!! The human gut is more complex than previously thought and has a huge impact on whole-body health. A healthy gut contributes to a strong immune system, heart health, brain health, improved mood, healthy sleep, and effective digestion, and it may help prevent some cancers and autoimmune diseases. There are a number of lifestyle changes you can make to positively affect your gut health and your overall health as a result. Whole foods, cooking from scratch, do a little research in to gut health and the way you eat, making small changes along the way .. We do eat out once in a while, order in once in a while for the most part we love cooking from scratch, its funny , once you start doing tis, your outlook on grocery shopping !! We do buy canned goods Tomatoes, some canned varieties of beans, we are loving eating this way!! it is truly amazing how your tastebuds change, Must admit I still love a burger or a sun sandwich once in a while..
When ever I am in the Kitchen cooking I always think of my Mom, she was an amazing lady, who taught me a lot about cooking , being a good person and always to help others.. We have taught all our kids all 3 of them, or at least shared recipes and traditions. I look forward to teaching my Grandkids, Today is the first Day of the rest of your Life.. A Random Act of Kindness is one of the most amazing things you can do
There is something very satisfying about going in to your garden and picking supper or lunch with a varying in salads!! I pick a Salad Bouquet, I love using different herbs and leafy greens.. I am going to figure out if I can do anything with the ferns, I know we have to be careful as most are not edible..
The 3 pica above is a Stroganoff I made from scratch!! I had a small piece of pork left over from the roast, I sliced cooked with onions, Garlic, peppers a little Swiss Chard , and garnished with Parsley , mushrooms and noodles serves with a mixed salad!!
Our Garden is our sanctuary, def lot more this year, the year of Covid 19.. We play relaxing music, have a glass of wine and play board games mostly Scrabble and Backgammon. We laugh a lot!! This is helping us through these stressful times. Having our Grandkids and kids with significant others close by, really is a plus.. .
Board Games are a great way of receiving stress Here is some info I found on the web!! re Board Games
Have fun and feel good. One of the effects of playing board games is laughter and it has be found out that this increases endorphins. This chemical in our body is known to elevate the feeling of happiness
Family time. Nowadays spending an uninterrupted time with your family may be quite impossible given the different schedules each family member has. Yet playing board games after a family dinner is one excellent way to get together and strengthen your family bond.
Memory formation and cognitive skills. The areas of the brain that are responsible for complex thought and memory formation are the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. These parts most benefits when playing board games.o get together and strengthen your family bond.
Reduces risks for mental diseases.Playing board games keeps your mind engaged by exercising it and building it stronger. It’s good to note that stronger brain has lower risks of cognitive decline.
Lowers blood pressure. As playing board games effects to laughing and endorphins. This things can help lower or maintain blood pressure.
Speed up your response. In a study at the University of Toronto, they found out that students who regularly played video games were far quicker in locating than those who don’t. Get yourself into board games and sometime soon, you’ll be able to find those hard-to-find car keys without searching the whole house.
Reduce stress. According to an online survey by RealNetworks, Inc., 64% of the respondents said they play games to unwind and relax. 53% play to relieve stress.
Grows your immune system. Research shows that negative thoughts and feelings can reduce the ability to fight disease whilst positive thoughts and feelings. The enjoyment and laughter you get from playing board games prevents effects with the chemicals being released by the body.
Child development. Playing board games help children develop their logic and reasoning skills, improve critical thinking and boost spatial reasoning. The ability to concentrate and focus for a longer period of time is also developed with just playing board games.
Therapy treatment. Most types of board games require players to use fine motor skills to pick up or move pieces which are actions that both involves coordination and dexterity. And have been found out that can really be helpful when added to occupational therapy treatments. Try not to be constantly watching the news, limit yourself to once a day other wise this will increase your stress… Live , Laugh and Love .. Eat a healthy diet and keep a healthy mind..
Virtually any form of exercise or movement can increase your fitness level while decreasing your stress. The most important thing is to pick an activity that you enjoy. walking, stair climbing, jogging, bicycling, yoga, gardening, weightlifting and swimming, walking the dog.. Music also is a great way to relieve stress , put on a great playlist and sing, cook, what ever you love to do!! Stay Safe everyone
Nasturtium Plant is a Foodies delight , at least mine!! Our garden is like a jungle LOL We have been eating lots of Salads , With Nasturtium leaves, parsley, Swiss Chard, Chives, tomatoes and lettuce, when I want a salads I go our to our garden and pick it all fresh. The mix of leafy greens flavour is incredible.. Did you know Nasturtium leaves and capers and petals of the Nasturtium plant are packed with nutrition, containing high levels of vitamin C. It has the ability to improve the immune system, tackling sore throats, coughs, and colds, as well as bacterial and fungal infections. Use to cook withAll part of the plant are edible; in the world of edible annual flowers, Nasturtiums are truly one of the tastiest and easiest to grow.
This info I researched and found on line it is very interesting.. The Flowers have a mild peppery taste are great for adding character and colour to dishes. Freeze into ice cubes to create a pretty addition for summery drinks. added to raw apple cider vinegar to make a peppery nasturtium vinegar or chopped and mixed with softened butter to make nasturtium butter. The recipe on here is actually pretty tasty Stuffed Nasturtium Leaves with Rice and Veggies or meat A take off of the greek Stuffed Vine Leaves .. There are lots of edible Plants
These rolls made from edible nasturtium leaves are great at room temperature, so can be excellent as a make-ahead dish for picnics or potlucks. I serve them at home as an appetizer or as part of the meal.
Ingredients
Filling
3 cups cooked short grain rice, (may substitute grains or other types of rice, or any combination)
1 T. extra virgin olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
1 clove garlic, finely chopped
1 cup chopped tomato, (fresh or canned/drained)
1/2 pound lean ground beef or lamb, (optional)
1/3 cup pine nuts, toasted
1/4 cup chopped fresh flat leaf parsley or mint
1/2 cup chopped nasturtium flowers
1-1/2 T. capers
1 T. extra virgin olive oil
1 tsp. lemon juice
For preparation
20-25 fresh nasturtium leaves – stem trimmed close to the leaf
3/4 cup vegetable broth, or chicken broth
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350F.
Wash the nasturtium leaves gently and set them aside.
Making the filling
Make the rice according to package directions and let it cool slightly before starting.
Place the cooked rice in a large bowl – you’ll be adding the rest of the filling ingredients to the rice.
Sauté the onions and garlic in the olive oil until softened but not browned, then add the chopped tomato and cook on medium heat for 3-5 minutes. Add this mixture to the rice and combine.
Place the ground beef in the pan in which you cooked the onion/garlic/tomato mixture, and cook on medium heat, chopping as you go to get a fine crumbled burger.
Once the burger is completely cooked, add it to the rice mixture, and combine.
Now stir in the remaining ingredients – toasted pine nuts, chopped parsley, chopped nasturtium flowers, and capers. Taste, adjust with salt and pepper if needed.
Making the stuffed nasturtium leaves
Place one of the nasturtium leaves on your work surface, stem side down.(I like to use a large plate for this.) Put a teaspoon or more of the mixture in the center of the leaf, then carefully fold the two sides partially over the rice and roll tightly towards the top of the leaf, ending with the edge tucked underneath.
Repeat with all the leaves and pack tightly in one layer with the seam of the leaf down (so they don’t unroll), into a glass or ceramic baking dish.
Pour chicken broth over the stuffed nasturtium leaves.
Cover the dish tightly and bake on the center rack of your oven for 45 minutes. Check to make sure the rolls are not drying out about halfway through cooking. If they are, spoon some hot broth over them. (Don’t spoon cold broth into a hot glass or ceramic baking dish, as it can cause the pan to shatter!)
Cool slightly and serve warm, or wait longer and serve at room temperature.
Before serving, drizzle with one tablespoon or so of olive oil, and a teaspoon or so of lemon juice. Refrigerate any remaining rolls.
Notes
This is a very flexible recipe. Use your imagination and what you have on hand to create a delicious filling! This recipe makes enough filling for 20-25 nasturtium leaves. Extra filling can be frozen or used for something else.
I did a little research in to the Nasturtium plant go this off The Microgardener.com great info
Nasturtium Pesto
This is from Yummly.com some great forcipes on this site I love to cook from scratch Once my tomatoes are all red going to be making some Pasta sauce ..
US|METRICSERVINGS: nasturtium (flowers 1/2 – 1 cup, 25g)leaves (Nasturtium, with stems 1/2- 1 cup, 25g)3/4 cup olive oilParmesan cheese (just under 1/3 cup, 25g)pine nuts (just under 1/4 cup, 25g)1 pinch rock salt (ground in a pestle and mortar)
By oh boy is this Canadian Simmer like a British summer where I come from in the UK!! Cumbria. Such a beautiful place and such a lot of history.
Cumbria is best known for containing the Lake District National Park, an area some 30 miles across, containing England’s highest mountains (four over 3000 ft), and some of Englands biggest lakes. Also within Cumbria is a small part of the Yorkshire Dales National Park. Beatrix potter, In all, Potter wrote thirty books; the best known being her twenty-three children’s tales. With the proceeds from the books and a legacy from an aunt, in 1905 Potter bought Hill Top Farm in Near Sawrey, a village in the Lake District which at that time was in Lancashire. I love Beatrix Potter always have and one of my fave movies is Miss Potter staring Rene Zelwegger. Beatrix Potter and the National trust. here is a link you will find interesting “Hill Top Farm ” Make me want to go visit again..
William Wordsworth , Info on poet. here is a pic, not mine but found on net. Google Beatrix she is amazing.
Early LifePoet William Wordsworth was born on April 7, 1770, in Cockermouth, Cumberland, At the end of the 18th century, poet William Wordsworth helped found the Romantic movement in English literature. He also wrote “I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud.” Hmm I have often Said this!! I think I may read some of his works..
Yesterday I coked a roast, potatoes , and veg in the Crock Pot, I then picked some Swiss chard from the Garden and made my version of Collard Greens, boy it was good .. I diced 1 medium onion, garlic 1 tsp minced garlic, 1 small Jalapeño sautéed. then added a huge bunch of Swiss chard from our garden and sliced added to the onion mix, I then added some of the stock from the roast and cooked on. a low heat, I added salt and fresh ground pepper. Yummy.
Here is a little History on Collard greens. Not my info I found this on line and it goes along with todays Blog
Collards are also known as tree cabbage or non-heading cabbage. Though greens did not originate in Africa but originated in the eastern Mediterranean, it wasn’t until the first Africans arrived in Jamestown, Virginia in the early 1600s that America got its first taste of the dark green, leafy vegetable. Collard greens have been eaten for at least 2000 years, with evidence showing that the ancient Greeks cultivated several types of collard, as well as kale. Collard greens are close relatives of kale. Like Swiss chard and rapini, collards are harvested for their edible and slightly bitter leaves. But unlike Swiss chard and rapini, collard greens‘ thick stalks are not commonly consumed. you can eat the stalks of Swiss chard.. Now the remember last Blog I mentions eating lots of Leafy Greens. OMG your will love this!! I guess I love all my green veggies, since my surgery I can enjoy them .. These are in the Super Foods. so I guess Super greens. Enjoy them and be creative with them they are good for you. remember Eat to Live not Live to eat. you can add a lot of these to your recipes and hide them if your children don’t like veggies so much!! Puree in to the recipe.. LOL.
Provide Detox SupportJust like the health benefits of kale, their cruciferous ( Brussel Sprouts to. Yummy) cousin, one of the top health benefits of collard greens is that they’re a natural detoxifier. They not only help remove toxins, but they eliminate them from the body. Cruciferous vegetables are vegetables of the family Brassicaceae with many genera, species, and cultivars being raised for food production such as cauliflower, cabbage, kale, garden cress, bok choy, broccoli, Brussels sprouts and similar green leaf vegetables.Wikipedia. This is from Wikipedia. man I love that site.
Well, now to take George for a walk. Oh Did you know Beatrix Potter also had a Springier Spaniel again not my pic. But OMG love it.
My Boy George. !!! Love Y’all Stay Safe. Wash your hands regularly!!
Eating during COVID-19: Improve your mood and lower stress!!
So David was craving deep-fried chicken , I looked up recipes and found a Mock M Browns , oh boy was it food and not greasy at all !! Flavourful, I added a little more spices!! Not my recipe it was on line and is amazing , not something I would eat regularly bur def a great treat..
I added a little savoury spice and some paprika to colour the flour.. I made scalloped potatoes and green beans with this.. LOL not a word was uttered at the supper table.. Today Im making home made bread and going to give some to my neighbour, Tonight a coast salad made with home grown romaine lettuce and my home made dressing!!
Tomorrow I am making Collard Greens but Substituting the Collard Greens with Swiss Chard !
Low-Cal ChardDelicate in taste, chard can be used as a substitute for collards as it can withstand long cooking times, even though this vegetable cooks much more quickly than collards do. … Like spinach, a 1-cup serving of chard contains 7 calories.
Dark Leafy Greens
Leaf vegetables, also called leafy greens, salad greens, pot herbs, vegetable greens, or simply greens, are plant leaves eaten as a vegetable, I make wraps out of the leafy greens ,
Which Green Vegetables Should You Eat?
There are many leafy greens you can eat. Here is a list of the healthiest greens commonly available:
Kale: It contains almost all the goodness leafy greens can offer. Kale is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, calcium, folate, potassium, and fiber. It protects the heart and can prevent or slow down cancer.
Collards: Collards contain nutritional value very similar to Kale.
Green leaf, red leaf, and Romaine lettuce: These are full of vitamin A and folate. The darker leaves are more nutritious than lighter varieties.
Turnip greens: The tops of turnips are low in calories, and are loaded with vitamins
Swiss Chard: These vegetables have a beet-like taste and a soft texture. They contain a healthy amount of vitamins A and C.
Broccoli: It is rich in vitamins C and A, potassium, folate, fiber, protein, and iron. Broccoli also contain cancer-fighting sulforaphane.
Spinach: Spinach contains folate, vitamins A and C. Cooked spinach is more nutritious than raw.
Mustard greens: These greens have a similar nutrition profile to turnip and collards.
Cabbage: This vegetable is an excellent source of vitamin C and cancer-fighting compounds.
Small leafy greens, like cilantro, parsley, mint, spearmint, sage, thyme, and fenugreek: Never heard of this !! These greens are potent in nutrients similar to the large leafy greens noted above.
Herbs and many more
Scratch Cooking, for us is the way to go, we limit the amount of processed food, and this time of year we grew a few veggies in our garden , The Swiss Chard and Herbs can be frozen to be used at a later date, the tomatoes I make a tomato sauce and freeze
All in all a healthy diet and exercise ( we love to take George for daily walks) We play Scrabble and Backgammon and have lots of laughs.. We aren’t perfect by any means and everyone handles stress in a different way , for us scratch whole food cooking and eating is helping us..Our family and grand kids to Love y’all Stay Safe ,
Birthday Weekend, Canada EH!! Then Asher turned 1 year and then bailey turned 10 years !! We got to spend the best part of the weekend with Family.. For Canada Day David made a Huge Burger with Ground Chicken, Lean Ground Beef and then Ground Pork from Irvings Farm Fresh! The burgers were Huge a Gigantic Burger .. David also Smoked a Brisket that to was amazing.. I tried a new brand of Flour, it wasn’t to bad except the Power went out part way through cooking so I had to finish it on the BBQ!! For Snacks and Lunches I made 2 bean dishes One was Texas Caviar and the other a greek Salad made with Chick Pea that is amazing !!
Then for the weekend, I made a Veggie Stir Fry with a little of the Brisket Beef , the flavours in the stir fry WOW.. Today is a veggie day !! A Bean Stew made with Black Beans, Lentils and Butter beans to give the stew meatiness.. Lots of other Veggies!!
As Canada Day Fast approaches, what are you all doing for this?? Were staying home just having a BBQ for us! There was a new Covid 19 Out break a couple of weeks ago and as from Yesterday we were at
There is one new COVID-19 case in Fort McMurray and three new recoveries. This brings the total number of active cases in the city to 13, with 29 recoveries.
The number of cases in Wood Buffalo’s rural hamlets remains unchanged, with 11 active cases and three recoveries!! With name being a little over a month Post Op, I don’t want to do anything to harm this.. I am feeling great, eating a healthy diet really helps.. Our Youngest Grand son and his mom Came from Lunch then we took lunch to them, and of course David ( Grandad) Got Asher very dirty so he bathed him, we also got to see Colin and Bailey for a short visit, Miss B is turning 10 in July and Asher will be 1 year.. In Sept Colin is turning 14, oh my where does the time go.. lol Its nice to talk and visit now with Close family as Anxiety can get pretty wild… So Staying Healthy both mentally and physically is important and always remember there is always someone who will listen, my door is open if you need to talk, Believe me I’ve been there !! So this week we have had a lot of greens from the Garden salads and Swiss chard, we have 8 potato plants through and the garden is really coming along ! I did make Kedgeree, this week a Jamie Oliver recipe.. It wasn’t bad..
I have 2 chapters to read in the amazing Autobiography book 30 years of Frontline Policing in the UK..
Firearms and Fatals: An Autobiography of 30 Years Front line Policing Exposed
David cooked a roast of beef on the BBQ earlier this week and I boiled potatoes with the skin on they are just like baked potatoes only a wee bit juicier.
For Canada Day David wants to make his own burgers with lean ground beef and Ground Pork from Irvings farm fresh amazing pork products We had a laugh about the burgers and David wants to do a Hulk Size Burger , I will cook portobello mushrooms and make big buns lol … Please all stay safe and stay healthy .. These are tough times we are going through.. I on a daily basis do deep breathing exercises and stretching, as yet I have to be careful, once I am all healed its back in the Gym and Yoga.. David and I laugh a lot and , play board games, recently we have been playing scrabble I got this when I was 7 or 8 yrs old .. We also play Backgammon these games help us .. Well guys Up and onward Live Laugh and Love
45 yrs of marriage to tis man and I love him more today than ever, Best Friend, Husband, Grandad, Dad , Springer Dad a great cook, amazing person who would do anything to help a fellow person!! Wishing all the Dads all over the world, past and present We love you all.. To all First Responders and front line workers who are working today… Today David wants to cook so were having Chicken, new potatoes and Asparagus.. I haven’t cooked much tis week, as we have had a few BBQ’s and then David made his spaghetti sauce, I have had quite a few Salads from the garden.. Oh I did make a batch of Texas Caviar for David and I as that is amazing for your gut Health..
Tomorrow I go see my Dr to see how I am Healing, I feel better than i have ever felt and I am so pleased that I had the Surgery in Nov, them the one the end of may to reverse the stoma.. Now let me get on with my life..
Jamie Olivers Cooking , Man I love this man, and his cooking. I would love to cook with him.. David Smoked some Haddock yesterday and has frozen ti for later this week, I am going to make Jamie’s Kedgeree!! What is Kedgeree, it is a popular British Breakfast dish ( were having it for supper one day) it consists of curried rice, smoked Haddock or any fish you desitre. , boiled eggs, parsley and lemon juice. Not the usual British breakfast. Though, it is the origins of the dish which gives meaning to it as it is steeped in British and Indian history. There is a wee bit of history to go along with this Dish.. Kedgeree may be considered a traditional British breakfast dish but its roots are well bedded in Indian cooking having started its life as khichari, a humble dish of rice and lentils. Originally there was no fish in this dish so the Britts. added this for protein and turned into something more familiar to those serving in India, and it returned to these shores with them. I guess just like the English Kippers for Breakfast they to are a smoked fish yummy but way to many bones for me, My mom loved Kippers.. A little info from wikipedia on kippers
Why are kippers called kippers?The exact origin of kippers is unknown, although fish have been slit, gutted and smoked for centuries. … As a verb, to kipper means to preserve by rubbing with salt or other spices before drying in the open air or in smoke. So beef or other meat preserved in the same fashion can logically be called “kippered.” When Cooking cooking just kippers, you could boil water and add the Kippers once water is boiled.. In about 10 mins theKippers are ready to serve.. delicious served with scrambled eggs, or with poached eggs that have been cooked in the kipper water. Boiled Eggs My mom loved some Brown Bread and Butter with them . Fish is a super food Why is eating fish healthy? Fish is a high-protein, low-fat food that provides a range of health benefits. White-fleshed fish, in particular, is lower in fat than any other source of animal protein, and oily fish are high in omega-3 fatty acids, I love fish , I have a few fish recipes I should share with you.. I remember the fish van coming around once a week, thats when my mon would buy amazing smoked haddock cook it in milk and make a fish Pie, or buy kippers OMG the stump the house out but are so good.. Funny the things that bring back memories ..
Ingredients
2 large free-range eggs
680 g undyed smoked haddock fillets , from sustainable sources, ask your fishmonger, pin-boned
2 fresh bay leaves
170 g long grain or basmati rice
sea salt
1 tablespoon pure butterghee
1 thumb-sized piece fresh ginger , peeled and grated
1 medium onion , or 1 bunch of spring onions, finely chopped
1 clove garlic , peeled and finely chopped
2 heaped tablespoons curry powder
1 tablespoon mustard seeds
2 tomatoes , deseeded and chopped
2 lemons , juice of
2 good handfuls fresh coriander , leaves picked and chopped
1 fresh red chilli , finely chopped
250g fat-free natural yoghurt
Method
Boil the eggs for 10 minutes, then hold under cold running water. Put the fish and bay leaves in a shallow pan with enough water to cover. Bring to the boil, cover and simmer for about 5 minutes, until cooked through. Remove from pan and leave to cool. Remove the skin from fish, flake into chunks and set aside.
Cook the rice in salted water for about 10 minutes and drain. Refresh in cold water, drain again, and leave in the fridge until needed. Melt the butterghee in a pan over a low heat. Add the ginger, onion and garlic. Soften for about 5 minutes, then add the curry powder and mustard seeds. Cook for a further few minutes, then add the chopped tomatoes and lemon juice.
Quarter the eggs. Add the fish and rice to a pan and gently heat through. Add the eggs, most of the coriander and the chilli and stir gently. Place in a warm serving dish. Mix the rest of the coriander into the yoghurt and serve with the kedgeree.
Happy Hump day ( Wednesday) Day 13 post op and feeling the best I have ever felt.. Eating a balanced diet it important to me more than ever.. We don’t have a huge garden, but love to plant the things we like, tomatoes, Lettuce, SwissChard, potatoes, Chives, Spring Onions various Herbs.. Cooking from scratch, i find to be so satisfying !! I know not everyone can do this, but if you start small.. Maybe just by making your own bread, or growing a few veggies or fruit, and start small..
Smoking foods, David smoked some Cheese this week, oh my gosh.. David smokes most meats and makes amazing Smoked Salmon , I love to make a Salmon Moose with the salmon..
Our Change in Diet has been over Id say the past 5 years, as David had a few small health problems on being gout! , since we started the plant based diet, in Spring 2015 David took his last pill.. Since then our diet and small changes in processed foods he has not taken a gout pill.. Once in a while we have a Steak, but for the most part Meat is an ingredient not the main part of out meals..
One of the reasons we decided to change one was , I have always had IBS not diagnosed, ut this was getting worse, Christmas 2015 , I procrastinated going to drs, the pain was getting worse plus blood!! March I went for a Yearly Physical, was sent for blood work and poop test, I knew that this would come back with questions, The phone rang my dr wanted to see me, he had concerns , Me to so I sent over my request for a scope the the hospital, mean while We had a Sinus apt for me at the U of A in Edmonton for May 3rd 20 16, go figure my scope was the same day, I re booked for a later date. Mean While The Fort McMurray Fire Hit, We had left town that morning to clear skies, we only had an over night bag with us and were planning to be back on May 4th. We left George and Kate was coming to pick him up later that day!! This is History, we spent the next 4 weeks on Irvings Farm in Camrose, @Irvingsfarmfresh!! Where George made friends with Spike and Dozer the 2 farm Dogs, I did most of the cooking with our new way of eating cooking from Scratch, not yet plant based.. I had pain and it was getting worse . Some days it felt like a flu bug, I was nauseous, low fever, aching all over. Fast forward my Scope was in Sept 2016 with Dr .. Diagnosis Diverticulitis!! Diverticu WHAT!!
This info is from Healthline.com Not me, I thought this may be of interest to Y’all!!
Although it was rare before the 20th century, diverticular disease is now one of the most common health problems in the Western world. It’s a group of conditions that can affect your digestive tract.
The most serious type of diverticular disease is diverticulitis. It can cause uncomfortable symptoms and, in some cases, serious complications. If left untreated, these complications can cause long-term health problems.
Read on to learn more about diverticulitis, including its causes, symptoms, treatment options, and how your diet might affect your risk of developing it.
Abdominal pain is the most common symptom of diverticulitis. It will mostly likely occur in the lower left side of your abdomen. But it can also develop in the right side of your abdomen.
If you develop any of the above symptoms, such as vomiting or blood in your stool, it may be a sign of a serious complication from diverticulitis or another condition. Call your doctor right away.
Diverticular disease develops when pouches form along your digestive tract, typically in your colon (large intestine). These pouches are known as diverticula. They form when weak spots in your intestinal wall balloon outward.
Diverticulitis happens when diverticula become inflamed and in some cases infected. This can occur when feces or partially digested food blocks the opening of the diverticula.
There’s no single known cause of diverticular disease. Instead, experts believe that multiple genetic and environmental factors likely contribute to its development.
To diagnose diverticulitis, your doctor will likely ask you about your symptoms, health history, and any medications that you take. They’ll likely perform a physical exam to check your abdomen for tenderness or, if they need more information, a digital rectal exam to check for rectal bleeding, pain, masses, or other problems.
Several other conditions can cause symptoms that are similar to diverticulitis. To rule out other conditions and check for signs of diverticulitis, your doctor might order one or more tests.
If you have diverticulitis, these exams and tests can help your doctor learn if it’s uncomplicated or complicated.
More than 75 percent of diverticulitis cases are uncomplicated, leaving about 25 percent to develop complications.
These complications can include:
abscess, an infected pocket that’s filled with pus
phlegmon, an infected area that’s less well-confined than an abscess
fistula, an abnormal connection that can develop between two organs or between an organ and the skin
intestinal perforation, a tear or hole in the intestinal wall that can allow the contents of your colon to leak into your abdominal cavity, causing inflammation and infection
There are a few medical treatment, Nothing was really helping After many Visits to My Family Dr and the Internist, I was referred to the amazing Surgeon here in fort Mc and a Bowel resection with colostomy, was done in Nov and May got this reversed!!
In a bowel resection with colostomy, the surgeon removes infected sections of your colon and attaches the end of the healthy section to an opening in your abdomen, known as a stoma.
Diverticular disease usually affects adults. But in rare cases, babies are born with diverticula. When this happens, it’s known as Meckel’s diverticulum. If the diverticula become inflamed, it’s called Meckel’s diverticulitis.
If you suspect that your child might have diverticulitis, make an appointment with their doctor. Some people have this and it never really affects them, for me this has been very dramatic. But I am now feeling better than I have ever felt and I have been given a second chance.. Please eat a sensible diet and pooping daily is important.. LiveLaughLove rat a healthy diet.. Love y’all A Huge Thank you to all Front line Workers, Drs and nurses at out @NLRHS Thank you all Frontline Staff. We live and appreciate you.
Eating right for your gut is so important, this was one of the reasons we changed the way we eat, more than ever since my second app eating right for my gut health is important. Our diet is 99% Whole foods, cook from scratch and little processed food.. One of our fave snacks is Texas Caviar, Black-eyed Beans, tomatoes, red onion, chilli pepper , green or red peppers , garlic , fresh ground black pepper and some chunky salsa.. Once you have tried this you will love it.. I also made Acorn ASquash soup and fresh bread, this is one of Baileys fave Soups, I never forget the first time I made it , I gave her some soup she took a few pieces of fresh baked bread and never even used a spoon for the soup, she soaked the soup up with the bread and that little fave of baileys.. Oh my I love that little Miss, and Gram misses you so much!! ( Another Side track lol) Also since surgery I have been taking a pro biotic , or a yogurt. Your digestive system is home to trillions of bacteria, some are beneficial and some are harmful. Beneficial bacteria can help digestion,
They are high in fiber, which can’t be digested by your body. However, fiber can be digested by certain bacteria in your gut, which stimulates their growth.
Beans and legumes also contain very high amounts of fiber.
Some high-fiber foods that are good for your gut bacteria these are
Prebiotics are foods that promote the growth of beneficial microbes in the gut.
They are mainly fiber or complex carbs that can’t be digested by human cells. Instead, certain species of bacteria break them down and use them for fuel.
Many fruits, vegetables and whole grains contain prebiotic, but they can also be found on their own.So really an all-around healthy diet, cutting out, processed foods or at least try to.. Somedays it is difficult..
Sunday Dinner A joint lol
Today I’m feeling amazing and am going to cook a Sunday Roast ( Joint as called in the UK) I marinated the beef last night,
1 cup flour
Mustard your choice
Fresh Ground black pepper
garlic
pkg Know Onion Soup Mix
1 pff beef Bouillon (OXO)
Rb the mustard all over the beef, massage in to the meat! All dry ingredients place in to a large ziplock baggie.. Place the meat in this mis and seal the bag, taking out the air Shake the meat and place in refrigerator. I took out the meat about 2 hours ago bringing it to room temp, and prepare the Dutch Oven, I usually use a vegetable trivet for my roasts, not today I am using a metal trivet, it helps the meat cook evenly. I add a pkg Know, Pkg soup mix and one diced onion and water,, Add the meat, cover and I place meat in a 380f oven for 20 mins then turn to 240 f , until done.. Then crank the oven to 425 and heat up my muffin tins for Yorkshire puddings, I par cooked the potatoes as we are having roast potatoes, have the carrots in Chicken Stock ready to cook and also brushes sprouts.. Once beef is done I will take the meat and place on a cutting board to relax,, Then make the grave out of the stock , i usually add a little Sherry or port to the gravy, today I have red wine.. I try not to go to the store to much, I make do with the ingredients I have at hand.. With the left over beef I am going to make a Beef Stroganoff.. Im already thinking ahead. Some of the gravy I will keep for a future curry!! With all meats I cook, I keep the stock to gravy to use at a later date.. TY Western Family ( Save On Foods for the amazing produce and friendly service from your Thickwood Store Love this store..
I Love making a Sunday Dinner, it brings back so many memories of my Mom, a wonderful lady and an amazing cook, I lost my Mom andDad 6 months apart when I was 31 yrs, taken to young.. I hold my friends and family close, you just never know. LiveLaughLove .. Stay Safe y’all I love y’all until my next blog Muwahhhhhhhhhh
Since Im from the UK I will do this segment about war time 1940 in the UK 70 yrs ago, was a lot different as there had been 2 Wars, with massive rations, that lasted years after the war, Here is Pic Rhubarb and Apple Jam, not mine was on a web site i cane across wile researching rationing and wartime foods .. I guess they had to try make heathy meals from the rations WW 2 rationing in the UK started Jan 8th 1940 with such foods as Bacon, butter and sugar, then a year to r so later other foods such as Meat, Milk, Cheese and Eggs also cooking fat which was a Lard. Could you imagine running a household, during these times.. My mom was am orpan during the first WW, bless her the stories he told, just break my heart. Sorry that was a side track!!
First World War 1914-1918 My mom was born the end of this war..
Second World War 1939-1945
A ww1 from 1918 on 1940 experiment . Com Recipe for Garlic and Cheese Scones ( Biscuits) Im going to try this
Wild Garlic & Cheese Scones (based on WW1 Ration Scones from 1918 above)
5 oz of white self-raising flour
2 oz of butter or hard margarine
1 egg and a little milk
1 oz grated hard cheese (cheddar would be fine if you have no Parmesan)
Several wild garlic leaves chopped very finely
Large pinch of salt.
Method
Sift flour and large pinch of salt into a bowl
Dot in the butter and then rub into the flour
Add the grated cheese
Add the chopped wild garlic leaves
Add the eggs and milk mixture leaving a spoonful to brush tops of scones before baking
Form a dough that is not too sticky and can be handled.
On a floured surface roll out to about 1/2 inch thick and use cutter or end of glass to create 6 scones (you may get more if you are lucky)
Place on baking tray, brush with egg mixture and sprinkle a little more salt on the top of each scone
Place in pre-heated (200 C) oven for about 20 minutes until a nice mid golden colour.
Remove and place on wire rack.
Enjoy while still slightly warm with butter. Would also be lovely served in a bowl with stew!
Makes 6 or 7
Preserving produce and I guess growing, having a little garden would have been beneficial. this info about the Victory gardens was on Wikipedia
Victory garden
victory gardens
Victory gardens, also called war gardens or food gardens for defense, were vegetable, fruit, and herb gardens planted at private residences and public parks encouraged people to transform their front and back gardens into vegetable plots. The goal was to replace imported food, thus freeing up shipping space for more valuable war materials, and to make up for food that was sunk in transit. By the end of 1940, 728,000 tons of food making its way to Britain had been lost, sunk by German submarine activity. hens had to be killed and sold off as food, as there was a shortage of stuff to feed them. This led to an egg shortage, and egg rationing of 1 egg per person a week. People could start to keep Chickens in their back yards, you would give up your egg ration and then you were entitled for a grain ration . Some Hotels kept Chickens . There was also a Pig Club, Communities set up neighbourhood Pig Clubs, to buy a pig, then feed it scraps from the households involved. (In many towns, the councils put food waste bins in the streets: Fed this to the pigs. Also Rabbit keeping became popular, rabbits breed all year round so this was a great source of meat! I couldn’t have eaten a rabbit but I guess these were desperate times..
These were the days before refrigeration and freezing was common in household kitchens, cannon and preserves were important.. The Ministry of Food educated people with leaflets, radio programmes and community demonstrations on the latest and greatest food preserving techniques, to ensure that no food went to waste. Also an interesting tip Eggs could be kept fresher for a bit longer by rubbing them with lard to seal the pores,
There was a Women’s Land Army, as all the young men, went to fight the war. Ladies Went to work, doing the work usually met did!!
British women ( All over the world) took on a variety of jobs during the Second World War. They also played a vital role on the home front, running households and fighting a daily battle of rationing, recycling, reusing, and cultivating food in allotments and gardens. Before ww2 , Britain imported most of its food. Then war broke out and this had to stop, now Britain had to grow most of its food.
Britain’s wartime women gained a new sense of power. There were women who could talk down aircrews, break codes, track battleships, drive 10-tonne trucks and save lives. No concession was made, however, for the fact that women had to go on running the home. After a 10-hour day in a factory making aircraft wings, a woman would still have to shop, clean, feed her family on rations and “make do and mend”. After the war, the home was where they were expected to return.
In 1945, a group of rightwing women formed the British Housewives’ League to protest against rationing; at their peak they had 100,000 members.
D-Day: What is it and why is it important? From BBC News
It has been 76 years since the D-Day landings, which took place on 6 June 1944 during World War Two. Women had a vital Role in WW2, Women were conscripted in December 1941. They were given a choice of working in industry or joining one of the auxiliary services – the Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS), the Women’s Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) or the Women’s Royal Naval Service (WRNS). I think it is very important to remember this day, even though I wasn’t born for a long tome after this.. I remember my Grandmas stories, and one I remember my dad telling many times, they were in Belgium , not sure where or why! Dad and a few friends were invited in to a Belgium, family house for supper.. Dad said the Supper was delicious, and the most amazing meat, he asked what it was and their reply was it was Tinned Monkey!! Needless to say my poor dad always had a very delicate tummy!! He Went and threw up!! Funny thing I found this article LOl
Feeding soldiers in prolonged combat is no easy feat. Besides the fact that conditions may well be adverse – snowy, mountainous, extremely arid and/or humid – troops may not have the time or the equipment for cooking. This is where “monkey meat” proved useful! This small tin of beef preserved in brine, with a close resemblance to cat food and an unappetizing odour, could be heated up or even eaten cold. It sustained soldiers throughout World War II and was the exemplary solution for the difficulty of providing healthy food to soldiers carrying out strenuous tasks in stressful situations. Such nourishment needs to be balanced, tasty and attractive, lightweight, compact and waterproof, as well as easy and fast to prepare!
Below ww2 ration book, these were issued to the public 5 days after war was declared, Sept 8th 1939 . They were not actually used until four months later, however. Bringing rationing into effect was postponed several times owing to a campaign in the press led by the Daily Express newspaper, which called rationing an unnecessary folly and government interference with civil liberties. The government finally overcame political resistance and rationing came into effect on 8 January 1940. Rationing meant that no matter how rich you were, the food available was equally shared at fair prices.Once the ration booklets were received for that year, you would take them and register them at the grocery stores you intended to use them at. I cant imagine these times..
What food did they eat during the war?Fresh fruit, vegetables, meat and bread were hard to find. … These were solid, heavy, belly-filling meals such as:
Bean soup and bread, followed by treacle pudding.
Toad-in-the-hole and potatoes.
Mutton stew and suet pudding.
Fish and potato pie, then baked raisin pudding, nothing was wasted..
I could go on and on about the rationing in ww2, but I must cook super.. We can certainly learn a lot from these times, like not over buying, less waste.. Appreciate what we have.. Live Laugh and Love life is so short enjoy every moment .. Love y’all I received this today form the Fort McMurray RCMP I feel so humbled to have this,, I crochet #Hugs4Cops and all first responders to show my appreciation, respect for their work Thank you
Another cool rainy day! I have got my crochet out ! Every day I feel I am getting stronger, for supper last night David made a fabulous salad! The Lettuce was out of our garden and the eggs were Hutterite eggs! Salad and a slice of home made bread amazing, I added a kite Kimchi to my salad
What is kimchi?
Contains healthy bacteria and probiotics for the overall wellness of your body. …
What is kimchi?
Indeed, this low-fat and high-fiber meal is so famous it’s widely available in Asian grocery stores and health food stores all over the country. But, what exactly is kimchi? Kimchi is a red, fermented cabbage dish (occasionally, with radish) made with a mix of salt, vinegar, garlic, chile peppers and other spices. These ingredients are fermented in a tightly closed jar and are subsequently served with rice, noodles or soups in every Korean’s household. We always have a jar of Kimchi in the house, def good on salads, to burgers.. Your Choice
Fermentation is an ancient technique of preserving food.
The process is still used today to produce foods like wine, cheese, sauerkraut, yogurt, and kombucha.
Fermented foods are rich in beneficial probiotics and have been associated with a range of health benefits — from better digestion to stronger immunity One reason I am adding it to my diet for a while is The probiotics produced during fermentation can help restore the balance of friendly bacteria in your gut and may alleviate some digestive problems !! Slowly adding again beans as they to are amazing for gut health!! We are all about this !! The pics of George here, the one at the bottom of the stairs, my health nurse came to see me and while she was here George guarded the stairs!! I will post the Texas caviar later..
What a week, Surgery went well, thank you to all the Hospital Staff at our Northern Lights Hospital here in Fort McMurray,Dr Indar and Nursing Staff are amazing, loved my post ope meals thank you Dietary! Also all staff on the front lines! I started this journey a few years ago, with Diverticulitis, never confirmed when I was young, but we suspect, i may have had this most of my life .. But as you all know David and I changed our diets to 80% Plant based and also cooking from scratch!! I have to say, we do feel well eating this way! I went in to the Surgery with a Positive attitude and carried that all the way through and still am thinking positive in my recovery.. I got home Sunday, as I entered my house, it was so clean!! George was so happy to see me, and David had a chicken ready to put on to the Rotisserie , with a mashed potato, and chunks of sweet potato he ha d pa boiled and finished on the BBQ!! it was amazing, we then sat out on the back deck !! David surprised me with the patio lanterns, as it grew darker the magic of my back yard was amazing ..
We sat n the back Deck for a couple of hours, listening to Hippie music LOL David had also smoked some cheese while I was in hospital, we had to try this, oh my . yummy it was delicious.. Eating for a healthy recovery Monday Morning I had Avocado on flax seed toast,Supper David made Salmon, a creamy mash and carrots, it was amazing . Banana and bought for breakfast and avocado and flax seed sandwich and green tea for lunch tonight I think is leftovers yummy Chicken.. I have to really watch my diet after this surgery!! So far I am amazing, I feel as though I have been given a new lease on life, as before with the diverticular, was a challenge..
After surgery, your body needs enough calories and nutrients to fully recover from the Opp. Eating the right foods/diet after surgery can decrease risk of infection, speed healing of the incision and increase strength and energy. The best post–surgery foods to eat are packed full of vitamins and mineral Avocado is an incredibly nutritious food with a high content of healthy fats and nutrients. Avocados are beneficial to your health because they boost your good HDL cholesterol. , Added to a salad or a slice of whole grain toast, or made it into a guacamole dip, avocados are a great way to get the benefits of this amazing Veg, the amazing Avocado! One of the best things you can do to improve your nutritional status when you are recovering from surgery is to focus on whole foods. That means to choose foods that are “whole” or unprocessed This is the way we cook and eat. it takes a little more thought in to your weekly menu, once you are in the swing of things and cooking what you eat and very little processed foods, your tastebuds change, you crave less fast food, and you feel way healthier So, aim to obtain most of your nutrition from these whole foods, which is actually a healthy way to eat every day, not just the weeks following surgery. This is my second surgery in 6 months, fingers crossed the last. David and I have plans, diet , working out and relaxation techniques! I love to do deep breathing and stretches I guess a little like yoga!! My way, lol seems to be the theme of most of what I do My Way!!
Remember today is the first day of the rest of your life, life is short!! As I am lol Live, Laugh and Love .. Love y’all
This has been a strange week, Lots of healthy earring, made one of our fave Snacks a Veggie Slaw, yummy!! I Ninja’d Colin and Bailey, they didn’t expect it, bless them.. I cant with to wrap my arms around them and tell them how much I love and Miss them.. We went to see Kate and Asher had a great Afternoon in the garden, I played with Asher and David and Katie planted the garden.. Came home and made the Most Amazing Chilli, with a lean ground beef, 3 types of beans, a hot pepper and Chilli Spices OMG the best ever, then yesterday ate light, as today Is surgery day.. With luck thus will be the last one !! Yesterday a book I ordered written by a friend in the UK, who has Been a Cop for 30 yrs, So far it is a great read, I also have another book to read, it is about The Fabulous Finn, aPolice Dog who was Stabbed and he made remarkable recovery!! I will post the links for both of these books after my Surgery.. Love Y’all Stay Safe !!
Good Morning, another rainy day, lets just take a deep breath and stretch to start your day! I did, had my berries and yogurt , feeling great.. Today is leftover day, before I start to cook for the weekend, I am going to make a slaw, that is good for snacks also .. Im craving a Veggie Pizza , maybe tomorrow I will make a one.. We love a veggie pizza, they are so juicy .. I loved when Colin and Bailey would come over and we would make personalised Pizza !! I miss them so much, and love them to the moon and back !! Being a grandparent is the best, We do fun road trips, family fun nights, telling the kids stories of when we were little. Dreaming of things to com.. We don’t take over from the parent, we have been there done that, After your children grow up and leave home, life changes. many mums and dads, this is the period when ‘empty nest syndrome’ begins, Lets travel, we did this. Having the empty nest takes some getting used to..A new lifestyle. Soon your Kids are married and having children of their own, filling up the family tree with little babies. Now another transition. Now, you’re stepping forward into a new role. Your family is growing again, and you’re taking on a fresh title, Gram, Grand, Nanna, Grandad, Grams, Gramps!. Both as a parent and as a grandparent, Your Heart is bursting with pride and a never ending love for your offspring. But while parenting is a balance between care and guidance, grand parenting is a little-different.
As grandparents have all the luck. We get to enjoy the unconditional love of our grandchildren without having to shoulder the responsibilities parents have and these days this is a lot different . Of course, we’ve already paid those dues when we raised our own children! Daily life brings with it a to-do list. But not at grandma’s. At grandma’s, it’s all about having fun. Here there are no dentist appointments to attend, no chores to be done, and no to-do lists to check off. As a grandparent, you needn’t concern yourself with the day-to-day necessities of life with children. These are left to their parents, meaning your time spent with them can be focussed completely on having a great time. When ever needed will jump in and help..
Being a grandparent is not just about your cute, grandkids, it’s about your own children too. There’s nothing that can compare to the magic of watching your children turn into loving, caring parents. Having that feeling of She’s like my mom, or my dad used to say that, oh my I taught her that when she was young and now she is teaching this to her kids, Witnessing the growth can feel miraculous and very emotional, For many grandparents, this period brings about , pride. You can feel secure in the knowledge that you did an amazing job raising your kids, as you see them doing the same with their own children. Being a parent is the most beautiful thing in the world, but being a grand parent os a 100 x that feeling, when you don’t get to see this grand kids, for what ever reason you miss the, “ Gram I love you Ohh my heart Fun times with Gram and Grand XOXOXOXOX
Oh my my eyes seem to have developed a leek.. If I could turn back time..
Staying Well! Look after your health and eat a healthy diet helps your mental health and for now and in the long term of things, you will reap the benefits.. The first oic is one of our fave lunches, Grilled Cheese in WW bread, not proceed slices, but cut from a block of cheese, Aged White Cheddar and a Scottish Cheddar, and my pickled red onions, I made a home made Tomato Soup, this is one of our comfort foods!!
Muscles in a Tomato Wht wine sauce. This has been on my want to cook list for a while, I looked over a few recipes and , decided this was the one I wanted to try! I made the tomato sauce the day before, with 2 small cams tomato, garlic, onions, a little basil, salt and fresh ground black pepper.. This sauce is light and flavourful, with out to many spices.. I diced a hot red pepper, 2 tsp minced garlic cooked in a little Olive Oi; them added the muscles , once they started to change colour I added the tomato sauce I made previously , once it came to a bubble, I added 1/2 cup of Dry White Wine your Choice, while this was simmering I made Spaghetti, once th Spaghetti was done I drained and put back in the pot and added Garlic Olive pol A PC brand and amazing, I then portend the spaghetti and added the Muscle and tomato sauce, We also like to add fresh ground black pepper to his once served .. Well David had 2 helpings of this, I will def make this one again.. My next Feat is to make a Sea Food Paella .. It is a crazy week, our son has been in Hospital in Edmonton, but is now back in YMM Hospital, the next week I go into hospital.. Up and onward another adventure.. I think I will do a little relaxation and yoga tonight ..
Been doing a little research on relaxation and yoga, along with your diet. These are not my words but some info I thought you may find interesting Practising this daily can provide an inner peace and relaxation, it just takes a few Mins daily We all face stressful situations throughout our lives, ranging from minor annoyances like traffic jams to more serious worries, such as a loved one’s grave illness. No matter what the cause, stress floods your body with hormones. Your heart pounds, your breathing speeds up, and your muscles tense. this is a stress response . Challenging situations in daily life can set off the stress response. We can’t avoid all sources of stress in our lives, nor would we want to. But we can develop healthier ways of responding to them. I love this one and do daily!!
This is just one way to de stress
Breath focus. In this simple, powerful technique, you take long, slow, deep breaths (also known as abdominal or belly breathing). As you breathe, you gently disengage your mind from distracting thoughts and sensations. Breath focus can be especially helpful for people with eating disorders to help them focus on their bodies in a more positive way. However, this technique may not be appropriate for those with health problems that make breathing difficult, such as respiratory ailments or heart failure. I have been doing this since the Birth of my first Daughter Victoria 30 + yrs ago.. These are stressful times , lets all take a few mins a day to breath and relax, play some music, not head bopping, but a relaxing tune.. As of late I have been doing a morning stretch, once this last surgery is over, I do walk daily with George and David, but I need to get in to shape.. Up and Onward, #Stay Safe and Stay Healthy!!
Condolences to this Pilots Family and Snow Birds Family, We watched them fly over Fort MCMurray ,on the Operation Inspiration tour.. I shed a tear , it was such a beautiful thing for them to do! Now we are mourning the lost life of Capt jenn Casey. RIP
public affairs officer with the Snowbirds, died in the crash, the Canadian Armed Forces said in a statement.
The pilot of the CT-114 Tutor aircraft, Capt. Richard MacDougall, sustained serious injuries in the crash, My Heart Aches and I think I will crochet a Hugs Blanket for the Snow Birds, in Memory of Capt Jenn Casey #Hugs
With the Covid 19 virus, flooding we had , Surgery for me on the 27th, and our Son in Hospital in Edmonton, a crazy time for us.. Up and Onward an we are looking forward to one day soon having friends and family over for a BBQ. I awoke this morning not feeling great, my heart was heavy, so I thought I have to shake this feeling, what better way that a healthy Breakfast.
Here are 11 good reasons to include berries in your diet.
Loaded with antioxidants. …
May help improve blood sugar and insulin response. …
High in fiber. …
Provide many nutrients. …
Help fight inflammation. …
May help lower cholesterol levels. …
May be good for your skin. …
May help protect against cancer.
The Science Behind Breakfast
Why breakfast is the most important meal of the day
You might think that the recommendation not to skip breakfast is just plain good advice. After all you need enough fuel to make it through the morning, right?
But research has found even more reasons for making room for the “most important meal of the day.”
Probably the most appealing benefit is that breakfast jumpstarts your metabolism and, thus, helps you burn more calories throughout the day. Even George my Springer Joins in our breakfast, he loves Yoghurt and a Salmon Oil Capsule, he really loves them , we like to shake up our wake up !!
Cognitive function
Breakfast also restores glucose levels, an essential carbohydrate that is needed for the brain to function. Breakfast can improve Memory, and concentration, and makes us happier, I know if i get hungry i get Hangry, lol
When did the word breakfast originate?15th centuryIt was not until the 15th century that “breakfast” came into use in written English to describe a morning meal, which literally means to break the fasting period of the prior night; in Old English the term was morgenmete meaning “morning meal.”
Right now I think it is time for a Cup Of tea ! #StaySafe out there #LiveLaugh and Love Love y’all
I then proceeded to make a Home Made Hand Sanitiser, for our personal use.. This afternoon I am finishing a #Hugs4Cops Blanket to send to an RCMP officer hurt in the line of Duty . I actually have 2 to send one here in Fort McMurray and one near Edmonton . Just my way of showing them we appreciate their work, Firefighters also !!
This morning we were up early, had our Berries , Yoghurt and coffee on the back deck, we chatted about what we wanted to achieve today! Lets start to Spring Cleaning, As we were finishing our breakfast the doorbell rand and It was the Flowers Studio with flowers for me with some chocolates, Thank you to my son Ian .. David started in the Ensuite in our bedroom and I started on the main floor. There was a great 80’s playlist on , this makes housecleaning great.. 2 hours later we decided to have lunch, I opened a bag salad I had bought, “Eat Smart, Kale, strawberries carrots, broccoli and lots more yummy veggies, I cooked a turkey patty and cracked 2 of the Hutterite eggs ( they are delicious ) put them on an english muffin with a little mustard and red pickles. What I call a “Granny McMuffin”. Back to housework, i them vacuumed and dusted the main floor and stripped Ians bed to wash the sheets. By this time it was almost 5 pm , I still have to get my lottos tickets for tonight.. I ran to Uncle Bills got them and back home, David walked George my faithful Spaniel and I made supper. like I said the 80’s called and wanted my Monte Cristo Sammich!! I made it my way! We try not to eat to much Deli Meats and would rather have with patties eat from scratch!!
with home made bread, sliced turkey, home made garlic mayo, Scottish Cheddar, Goats Cheese and some Avocado , dipped in and egg , garlic and fresh ground black pepper mix and put in to a skillet with a small drop of Olive Oil and cook slowly so the cheese and egg Cook, we had this with my home made Mushroom Soup oh my goodness, the meal was amazing, tasty and from Scratch!! except the salad!! 🙂 soon we will be able to pick our salad and strawberries from the garden!! Our plants seem to have weathered well even though 2 days ago we had 2″ inches of snow!! David looked after them put a tarp over and tied it down..
Since we are talking Sandwiches , most of you know am from the UK, Corby Hill 5 miles from Carlisle , Cumbria. Britts love their Sandwiches. Never let it be said that Brits aren’t serious about their sandwiches. Oh yes, we Brits (well, John Montagu, 4th Earl of Sandwich) invented the sandwich
Everything goes in a sandwich ! Even Potatoes Chips a good old Crisp sandwich!! Now one of my faves is an egg and cress sandwich here we call it an egg salad sandwich! How about a chip butty!! yummy French fries in a sandwich! Maybe a Cucumber sandwich, I hear Her Royal highness Queen Elizabeth likes these! I would make mine with Cucumber and Goat Cheese on a crusty WW bun!! My Way!! BLt same as Here but there is a sandwich you have to try Welsh Rarebit here is some info on this amazing Sandwich
How about a Bacon Butty and a cup of tea!! Mmmmm
To call this creamy, savory sandwich melted cheese on toast would be a sacrilege. Welsh rarebit is a traditional snack, ideally based on locally produced Cheddar or Caerphilly cheese, melted and mixed with butter and cream or ale, then poured over a piping hot, buttered toast.
The dish stems from the 14th century as a way of accentuating the greatness of wheat bread and Welsh Cheddar. The debate about rabbit versus rarebit went on until the late 19th century, when the word rarebit caught on. The rabbit version derives from the fact that the Welsh were extremely bad hunters, so their dinners resulted in cheese instead of rabbits. Today, it is one of the most famous Welsh dishes and an ideal comfort food, with a few variations such as Irish rarebit, made with Irish Cheddar; Scottish rarebit, made with Dunlop cheese; and English rarebit, made with farmhouse Cheddar, seasoned with Worcestershire sauce, then poured over toast that has been soaked in wine.WALESEurope I have tried this as a brunch and it really is amazing.. TY WALES
Not a Sandwich but the amazing Cornish Pasty ! Here is d some info I found on the Cornish Pasty! A Minors Delight, Here is some history I found and thought it was interesting..
When the Cornish came to the copper mines of the Upper Peninsula, they brought with them a lot of mining knowledge which the other ethnic groups did not have. The other ethnic groups looked up to the Cornish and wanted to emulate their mining successes. Many Cornish practices were then copied by the other ethnic groups, including the pasty as the standard lunch for miners. The pasty became popular with these other ethnic groups because it was small, portable, was very filling, and could stay warm for 8-10 hours. Pasty rivalry occurred between the Finns, Swedes, Irish, Poles, Germans, Scots, Italians and French with each group contributing something in the way of seasoning and other ingredients. All groups agree that pasties must contain two things, potatoes and onions. The portability of the pasty not only made it easy to carry, but if it should get cold it would be relatively easy to heat up. This was done by putting the pasty on a shovel and holding it over a head-lamp candle. Miners never ate a pasty with a fork, they ate it end to end, and held it upright to keep the juices in. Since entire Cornish families worked in mines and each member of the family wanted different ingredients in the pasty, the Cornish wife would stamp the bottom corner of each pasty with an initial. According to the Cornish Recipes Ancient and Modern, “The true Cornish way to eat a pasty is to hold it in the hand, and begin to bite it from the opposite end to the initial, so that, should any of it be uneaten, it may be consumed later by its rightful owner. And woe betide anyone who take’s another person’s corner!” There was a superstition among the Cornish miner’s that the initial corner should not be eaten, instead it was dropped on the ground for the mining gremlins to eat. These “gremlins” caused mischief in mines, causing accidents and mine collapses, feeding them supposedly kept them out of trouble. There is
some truth to this rumor, because the early Cornish tin mines had large amounts of arsenic, by not eating the corner which the miners held, they kept themselves from consuming large amounts of arsenic. The pasty remains relatively unchanged today, a few places have put in healthier vegetable shortening instead of lard, and a couple of other minor changes like the cut of meat used. It’s importance in this area can be seen at local fund raisers for local groups and charities. Local food businesses make and sell anywhere from 50 to 100 pasties every day!
I like to make Pastys, I love the Cheese Potatoes and Onion Pasties, even veggies and potato with a little Nutritional Yeast that gives the pasty a cheesy taste.. below are minced turkey and Veggie pasties and Cheese Onion and Potato Pasties,
The Hutterite Chicken was amazing, we had a roast Chicken dinner, Chicken Salad ,a chicken pot pie, with lots of veggies, sandwiches and there was half a breast left and a leg, I diced it up and made Butter Chicken!!
Pics are below of Butter chicken and Spaghetti dinner!!! This week has been a lot of plant based meals, I made my Mushroom soup, OMG a must taste. That night we had a BBQ, a Portobello Mushroom Burger , I marinated 2 portobello Mushrooms and slices of red pepper Garlic oil , and black pepper oh my goodness it was amazing .
Yesterday I made a Bean veggie stew, wow, !! Black beans and butterbeans, with lots of veggies.. I love cooking from Scratch and I have been baking a lot of Scotch Baps, and giving a lot away!! We start our day with a healthy Fruit salad or berry salad with Yoghurt. Sunday Morning we had a treat some of Irvings Farm Fresh Black pudding, they have award winning pork products, if you get a chance the next time the Up-Root and Irvings farm Fresh deliver here , a def myst try..
David cooked supper on Mothers day , his amazing Spaghetti Sauce, it was amazing.. He is such an amazing Husband, father and grandad oh he is also my best friend..
Being Foodies and loving to cook is keeping us sane, during this pandemic.. This morning we watched the Snow Birds fly over Fort McMurray , I found this to be quite Emotional, and beautiful.. The last time I felt so emotional was when we drove back in to Fort McMurray after the Beast “Fire ravaged our city in 2016, Cops and Firefighters were standing on the Bridge welcoming us back in to Fort McMurray! The Close up photo was taken by my amazing son in-law Aaron Belanger. And now the floods we had. A huge thank toy to all those frontline workers #StaySafe #stayStrong #EatHealthy I got the Fire Pics off FaceBook
Happy Canadian Mothers-day Weekend, This is the strangest Mothers day ( Holiday Weekend I’ve ever had) David and I love to cook and have friends and family over for Holiday Meals and get-togethers .. If we come in contact with someone who is here alone we send an open invite to them.. They become family!! This mothers day is a tough one, but we always have Facetime, tweets, Phone calls to our moms and grandparents and also some friends we have adopted , or taken under our wing..
I don’t know what your feeling is on the Isolation, in sense life is a lot simpler, lots of board games, get up shower no make up unless we have to go out..Fill my sink with a Bleach solution and wipe down all services in my kitchen, plus wipe all shelves in the fridge and handles. Mop the floor at least twice away as George tracks in a lot of mud, polish once daily!!I used to bleach clean fridge and counter tops weekly, they thought the week use Vinegar and water this is great for all surfaces and windows, as I have an allergy to Windex and a few other cleaners..!! David and I play, lots of backgammon, cooking and laughing.. We are trying to eat a pretty healthy diet with lots of veggies, and meat is an ingredient , I lone we seem to cook a lot of meat but, we make it last by adding lots of veggies .. We have 3 adults in the house and I always make extras to leave as a porch Parcel.. I call my sister in the UK , as she is in Isolation all alone, she has an amazing family who call her and send her groceries.. George is enjoying David and I both being home, lots of pets and walks.. This benefits us all.. I am running out of wool and will have to find a reliable source to get some from , for my baby blankets and #Hugs4Cops Blankets.. On Thursday David put on the Rotisserie a Hudderite Chicken which was about 6 1bs and was all meat..
Thursday we had a chicken dinner, Yesterday we had a chicken and veggie fried rice , lots of veggies, today making a Chicken pot pie, With Brussels and a few potatoes.. Then I am so wanting to make butter chicken with the rest. I don’t have a recipe, but it always turns out amazing.. So really quite Budget friendly… Tomorrow David is doing the cooking and i will most likely be spoiled!! I am sending you all a virtual hug I love and miss you all here is a little info I found on line re Mothers day and whey in the UK and here in Canada the dates are different !!
On Mother’s Day morning some children follow the tradition of serving their mothers breakfast in bed. Other children will give their mothers gifts which they have made themselves or bought in stores. Adults often give their mothers red carnations, the official Mother’s Day flower. As long as I hear Mom I love you this is all I need..
Mother’s Day is a time to thank Mothers and maternal figuresCredit: Getty – Contributor
When is Mother’s Day 2020?
Mother’s Day falls on Sunday, March 22 this year.
Known by its religious name, Mothering Sunday, it has become more commercialised over the years.
Why does the date of Mother’s Day change each year?
Mothering Sunday in the US is an annual holiday held on the second Sunday in May, so the date slightly varies each year.
In the UK, the date is linked to Easter, which is different each year as it is determined by the lunar calendar.
The UK’s Mother’s Day always falls on the fourth Sunday during the period of Lent, when people typically give up things like certain foods or bad habits for the days leading up to Easter.
What is Mothering Sunday?
Mothering Sunday is a celebration held to honour mothers and maternal figures.
The day has evolved into an occasion for children to honour and give presentsto their hardworking mums.
In the UK, it was originally linked to religion but has since lost a lot of its connections to the church and is mainly a family day.
Happy Mothers Day to all you amazing Moms far and near .. You are all amazing.. Love y’all
During this Covid 19 Isolation time, it is important to stay Healthy Mentally and Physically! It’s easy for your anxiety to spike.. you’re taking in new information all the time. And there’s a lot of mis-information out there when it comes to COVID-19. To combat this, only collect information from credible sources to get a clear, accurate sense of your personal health risk. Don’t watch the news a couple of Dozens time a day!! Your mental health will be better if only check win on the news once or twice daily!! David checks the world news when he first gets up and then at Supper we both watch the CTV Edmonton News.. Self Isolation and Social distancing are a tough one to follow, I am a Hugger !! It is tough not seeing my grand kids, we saw Asher yesterday briefly, it was so amazing
We haven’t seen Colin and Bailey for a couple of weeks now, this is tough. I had a dream last night that they came to visit, we were out back playing board games and having fun, I woke up early with tears streaming down my face.. I guess I am anxious and Scared.. In difficult scenarios, we tend to think about the worst possible outcomes. Mental health experts call this “catastrophizing” and it’s so common that it appears on every list of unhealthy thinking styles out there. At the same time, we underestimate our own abilities to overcome the situation. We will Survive.. We take advantage of this down time, we play lots of Backgammon and Dominos, I some times sketch., david loves to play cards on the computer and watching Documentaryies.. I also Crochet a lot especially #Hugs4CopsBlankets.. We love to cook, also , put on a great playlist and sing along to this.. We have been trying to go to bed at a decent time so we can get up and enjoy the day .. Physical activities are important when in Isolation, Jog, bike ride, treadmill, work out to that old DVD of Richard Simmons, oh my I loved the and Jane Fonda work out tapes back in the 80’s.. If you are feeling overwhelmed there is on line help, or call a friend , Face time, is great
Richard Simmons of ‘Sweatin’ to the Oldies’ is posting fitness videos ‘as a comfort’ during the coronavirus pandemic You can do it and get a giggle Found this link on line and this great pic of Richard Simmons . Oh I didn’t tell y’all I got a date for my Surgery May 27th, after the Surgery , I think I will do a little Sweatin to the Oldies
David and I both love to cook, this roast was a $33 it did 12 meals, we had a roast Dinner, Hot roast beef rolls with the dip, then I made a curry. the Curry alone had done 6 meals, lots of veggies .. I marinated the roast for 2 days , in Dijon Mustard, lots of Garlic and fresh ground black pepper. It was amazing, then David puttee roast on toe rotisserie.. I made a Cesar salad, with home made Croutons and a hime made dressing.. it is amazing.. During this Covid 19 Crisis, we have been keeping busy!! David has been planting the garden, I love my garden, I cook and bake lots of Bread and a newly found love of making Scotch Baps, they are delicious.. We play lots of Backgammon , the weather has beans nice!! I also gave David a hair cut it is not to bad..
Chinese food, all home made, Lots of veggies, a Wor Wonton soup / with Shrimp, then a Chinese type noodles and a Veggie Stir Fry, with Veggie Spring Rolls, We still try to keep to a health diet..
What is Wor Wonton Soup?
“Wor” is the Chinese word for “everything” meaning this amazing Wonton soup is loaded up with flavor! I’ve added in some of my favourite veggies like bok choy, carrots and broccoli! Mushrooms, a hot pepper You can add extra veggies or change it up to add in your favourites!
Saves money Eating homemade foods is usually much cheaper than eating at a restaurant or buying processed foods from the stores … zPlus we have a loy of time on our hands right now, Everybody knows that a home-cooked meal is the best kind of meal. It’s pure and simple fact that something made from scratch at home is going to taste so much better than something you’ve bought ready-made..
This is a way back to when I was living in Carlisle England , I didn’t or don’t have the recipe I just out together the way I remembered the Pierie’s Patty , there was a Fish and Chip Shop in Carlisle that sold these patties , oh my goodness they were amazing !! It tasted the way I remembered them. A little taste of home, I used ground pork for the filling, onion, a small carrot, garlic, black pepper and tomato paste.. Mashed potato. I am going to try these with different fillings, like Cheese and Onion, Chilli, Curry!! I love cooking and as We like to call kit #ISoCooking , when we cook a batch of food we usually put one or two Porch Packages together for Friends and family..
One batch was my Scotch Baps and Tomato Basil Soup!! The Second batch of Baps was the best! Here is a pic of some young ladies enjoying my soup and scotch baps !!
Yesterday David cooked , a batch of Spaghetti Sauce and we froze the for a future meal, and a #PorchPkg
Supper David made his amazing Chicken and Leek dish Oh my goodness this was amazing , He has been making this since we came to Canada, I cant remember where he got the recipe, everyone loves this. The we cook , we have a great playlist on and sing along as we cook!!
Today, my phone rang, and it was Katie to say she was going to take Asher for a Drive so she popped bye for the garden toys , we have had the slide since Katie and Victoria were small, the toy Police car was Colin and Baileys , so was the little tykes Bike or as Cling called it his “Crappy Bike” I am so please that they are going to get used again. We kept a #SocialDistance Here are a few new and old pics of my Grandkids enjoying these toys, I do apologise, I am having a minor melt down as I see these pics. I love y grand kids so much and miss them ..
Wow what a crazy week,!! We have 2 rivers convert here in Fort McMurray, the Athabaska River and the Clearwater River, we have had a long winter and it has stayed colder this year so the Ice is a lot thicker!! We have a huge Ice Jam and the Lover part of Fort McMurray has had to evacuate due to flooding . Through fire and flood, some residents in Fort McMurray are quietly longing for the rocky shores they used to call home while dealing with a pandemic and a natural disaster. There has been about 13,000 people evacuated !! “Hell to High Water!!” What else cold go wrong, Fort McMurray People are strong and
2016 we had the Beast come through our City of Fort MCMurray the entire city was evacuated Approx 90,000 ppl We rebuilt , but this flood has also destroyed a few of the houses and businesses that were re built. My Heart Aches for this town.. David also got temp lay off, so we are Self Isolating at home, this past year was tough on us as I also had a Mgr Surgery and am awaiting another, that was delayed due to the Covid Crisis.
Up and Onward.. 45 yrs married, we have our tiffs, but make a cup of tea and carry on.. We f We both love to cook so for our Anniversary on April 26th I cooked Eggs Benny for breakfast, and David cooked steak for supper and I made twice baked potatoes!! We are missing hugs from our 3 Grand-babies Colin 13, Bailey 9 and Asher almost 10 Months Old !! We planted seeds about 3 weeks ago and they are sprouting, soon we will be able to transplant in to the garden ,Herbs, Lettuce, Swiss Chard, Tomatoes, Spring Onions , Strawberries and flowers, it is not a lot but , we love going in to the garden to pick a salad !! Fort McMurray We can do this #StayHome #StaySafe #DontHoard #EveryonehastoSurvive Thank you to all the First Responders, Drs and Nurses all the grocery store workers and Truck Drivers, we could not do this with out you I love you all and Miss you!! I’m a Hugger ..
Sat I was Craving Antojitos, so I tried to replica this, I think I did it, oh my goodness they were good . I did these with a Veggie Stir Fry!! I will make these again.. I served with Sour Cream and a little Basil Pesto .. I also made some Banana Muffins and left a Porch Parcel on Kate, Aaron, Asher and Gracie’s .. My way of saying I love and Miss you.. Asher had the muffins for Breakfast the next day!! I think being able to cook and share my cooking by leaving Porch Parcels to friends and family..
How are you all handling the Self Isolation, what are you doing to keep the stress to the minimal.. David and I , love to joke around, what ever we are doing, Play Backgammon daily, do crosswords, walk George, We cook a lot, this next Sunday April the 26th we will be Celebrating 45 yrs of Marriage, I honestly don’t know where the time has gone, We have had our ups and downs, who dosen’t. I have to say I love this man more each day, we quite often say the same things, he is my soulmate , We have travelled the world, Met some amazing people, met a lot of famous people, the past few years have been tough, we got through it.. I love him more each day, He is an amazing Husband father grandad, fur baby dad, and my best friend .
2 tbl spns butter 2 Spicy Sausages ( Your Choice) smoked or Spicy
2 tsp’s minced Garlic..
1 tspnCayenne
1 Jalapeño
1 tsp dried Chilli Peppers
1 tbl spnsmoked paprika
6 cups Stock ( Your Choice)
2 Bay Leaves
We love our Plant Based meals, this one I looked up on line, once again did it my way the recipe gave me the basics for this, I added a Spicy sausage and smokey Paprika, lots of Garlic.. I soaked 2 cups of Black Eyed Peas over night ( Beans) cooked them for about 30 mins today, then halved the beans one lot is for The Southern Black Eyed Pea recipe and the other is for my Texas Caviar !!
In a Skillet fry onions, bacon and sausage add spices cook on low heat , in a pan add beans and stock add contents of Skillet to beans and stock, bring to the boil and them simmer until stock reduces, David tried this and loves it.
Happy Friday, We are trying to keep our minds busy, and healthy.. I cleaned out the Gym and we are starting a daily work out along with walking George ! We have been doing lots of Crosswords, Playing Backgammon, Spring cleaning each room.. Also lots of cooking, I make extra and deliver to the porches of friends and family once or twice a week, Pies, bread, soups, pasta sauces , just a little to say hey we love and miss you . I found a recipe from Jamie Oliver a very simple bread, to make 3 ingredients Yeast, Salt and flour, it was a heavy bread but tastes good, Katie gave me a Sour Dough Starter, were on Day 4 with this , fingers crossed I can do it, then pass along the starter, to a friend or family . I am really missing hugging, I am a hugger and would love to hug my family and grand kids,
We are actually eating a lot more fresh, veg and salads , I have an amazing Caesar salad dressing , I find eating light, makes me feel better mentally and physically.. I found a few recipes on line, I am def going to try !
I would like to loose a few more pounds, Found this on the web, we all know eating more fruits and veggies is good for us.. How about a Breakfast Salad , Poached egg and avocado, Poach the eggs.
Create the salads by layering the lettuce, tomatoes, cooked quinoa, avocado, and pistachios.
Add the poached eggs and top with salt/pepper to taste.
Breakfast salads typically consist of vegetables topped with various other foods, such as eggs, cheese, fruits, nuts, seeds, grains, and beans.
Fall Harvest Breakfast Salad – A festive fall breakfast salad with cinnamon roasted butternut squash, apple slices, avocado, red onion, walnuts, hemp seeds and an egg!
Blueberry Breakfast Salad
Belly fat-incinerating blueberries, oranges, crunchy granola, and savory salad greens join forces with a light blueberry vinaigrette to create this light and refreshing salad. To keep added sugar from overtaking your breakfast bowl, whip up the dish with one of these healthy granolas.
Berry Quinoa Salad I love Blueberries , berries, nuts, and quinoa—the primary components of this recipe—are all primo sources of antioxidants that karate chop any health-harming free radicals unlucky enough to cross their path.
Substituting your typical breakfast for a salad is an easy way to add more whole foods to your diet. You may also gain an array of health benefits. Breakfast salads are an easy way to increase your intake of fruits and vegetables, which contain numerous nutrients and plant compounds that benefit your health and protect you from disease
Ingredients
1/2 english cucumber, cut into quarters and then thickly sliced
2 large handfuls of cherry tomatoes, halved
1 red pepper, diced
1 avocado, diced
1 small handful of fresh basil, torn into bit sized pieces
1 small handful of parsley, roughly chopped
1/4 cup of pine nuts, toasted
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 Salt
2 eggs
Oil for frying the eggs
Combine all veggies, pine nuts, olive oil and salt together in a large bowl and toss well.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil. When the pan is hot crack both of the eggs into the pan. Add a small splash of water to the pan to help the eggs cook. Remove the eggs from the skillet and serve over the salad once they are cooked to your liking.
Eat Salads to Cut Calories and Increase Satisfaction
If losing weight is your goal, you may want to start your meals with a green salad. Studies have shown that eating a low-calorie first course, like a green salad of 150 calories or less, enhances satiety (feelings of fullness) and reduces the total number of calories eaten during the meal.
Eating a little good fat found in olive oil, avocado and nuts) with your vegetables appears to help your body absorb protective phytochemicals, like lycopene from tomatoes and lutein from dark green vegetables.
I love Salads and have never thought of a Breakfast Salad until this past 4 weeks, these are recipes I found on line while looking up recipes . Enjoy and remember #StaySafe #StayHome
David and I are finding lots to do during the Self Isolation, We love Chinese food, from the leftover roast beef which wasn’t a lot I cut in to tiny strips, 1 onion in chunky pieces, 4 cloves of garlic diced4 plum tomatoes diced, 1 Jalappeno sliced thin / left over carrots from the roast dinner, I added 2 tbl spoon curry powder, i tsp madras paste, and 1 tsp Grace creamed coconut, the simmered a while then added the left over gravy from the roast, oh my gosh you should taste this curry!! We made a veggie stir fry, rice and spring rolls, these ones I bought in Super Store they we Thai, shrimp and delicious
There wasn’t a lot left over from this dinner Just some rice and curry! Then we went in to the sun room and played our first game of BackGammon for this year, I am getting pretty good t this game.. We always have a playlist on, we sing , cook and do house work to this.. George is enjoying his daily walks , as yet we cant walk him far as yet again he is limping.. this is an intermittent thing on a yearly, basis it comes and goes,
Another day another day to create , hmmm so I have 1 1b ground beef, i brown this meat and half it, one half is going to make my Spaghetti Sauce and will be delivered to friends as a gift, the other half of the meat will go in to malign one of Davids fave Holopshy , For us for Supper I have 1 1/2 cup of cooked rice , 1/2 1lb browned ground beef, 4 garlic cloves diced,Large can tomato sauce, 2 tsp dried mustard , 1 medium green cabbage, fresh ground black pepper , 1/4 the cabbage and slice thn, layer on the bottom of a casserole dish mix meat, onion, rice and garlic laover the cabbage, top layer is thinly sliced cabbage.. Mix the mustard powder , pepper with tomato sauce and poutr over the cabbage, cook in a 360 f oven for about 1 hour, let stand to cool a while.
I also made bread to fo along with the Spaghetti sauce for a gift I will leave on their porch joust to say , we are thinking of you . I have also bee crocheting baby slippers, David has got his seeds planted and keeping the in a warm place, so that when the snow eventually goes we cn plant our garden, out sanctuary for the summer..
How then can we mindfully make good food choices? a web site I got this from health.harvard.edu
Make a schedule or a daily meal plan. A schedule is more predictable for you and for everyone in your household.
Consider apps to stay connected around a meal. Skype, Zoom, or FaceTime with family and friends. Share recipes or even cook virtually together.
Plan for groceries. Try to buy fewer processed, high-salt or high-sugar snacks.
Load up on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and lean proteins.
Save money. Skip the high-sugar soda and juices; instead flavor water with edible citrus or berries.
Plan and enjoy an occasional comfort food for a weekly treat — pick a day and enjoy whatever you want, just not all your favorites on the same day!
Manage your environment. If candy is simply not in the cupboard, then you can’t eat it.
You might be surprised to learn that certain nutrients in foods have been shown to reduce anxiety or spur the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine — and we all want to feel as good as we can during these times of uncertainty. People are feeling a lot of stress right now, and the unfortunate reality is that stress worsens feelings of low mood or angst, and it also suppresses our immune systems. Therefore, targeting immune-boosting foods will have a dual effect — you may feel less anxious and boost your immunity.
I’d suggest incorporating these foods as a way to include healthier options into your nutrition during this unusual time of stress and uncertainty. We all have to eat, so attending to our nutrition is something we can all control, and then reap the benefits of an improved mood.
Reduce anxiety and boost immunity by choosing:
Citrus fruit and red bell peppers (both rich in vitamin C, which in some studies has been shown to support your immune system)
Spices: ginger, garlic, turmeric, and capsaicin (from chili peppers) can be easily added to soups, stews, stir-frys, or salad dressings.
Foods rich in zinc such as oysters, clams, mussels, cashews, liver, beef, and egg yolks. You may recognize zinc as an ingredient is the cold remedy Zicam, as zinc has some virus-fighting effects.
Magnesium-rich foods may help you to feel calmer, and help support immunity. Stress can deplete our magnesium levels too. Examples are legumes, nuts, seeds, leafy greens, and whole grains.
Fatty fish like wild Alaskan salmon contains omega-3 fatty acids. A study on medical students in 2011 was one of the first to show that omega-3s may help reduce anxiety.
Eat probiotic-rich foods such as pickles, sauerkraut, miso, and kefir.
Add some antioxidants to your anti-anxiety diet, which can support your immune system.
The bottom line:
Staying at home during the COVID-19 pandemic is challenging for everyone, and the increased anxiety (and boredom) can cause people to abandon their healthy eating intentions and snack on whatever is around. But with a little thought and planning, you can continue to make good food choices and maybe even boost your mood and immunity.
Happy Easter to all my readers, family and friends,This was a strange Holiday, We are so used to hosting dinners for family and friends, this easter there was just 3 of us, David, myself and our son Ian ohh and George my faithful Springer.. The start of the weekend I groomed George as he was a hairy mess, its nor perfect but he looks not to bad.. Then I decided to put on a great playlist Phil Collins and Glass Tiger.. Sat I cooked Scotch Eggs they were amazing , and some Mushroom Soup.
Scotch Eggs
2 pkgs Sausage meat ( I used 2 as I swear these are smaller)
6 Medium Eggs
1 cup panco bread crumbs
Italian seasoning
fresh ground black pepper
Soft boil the eggs, once the water was boiling i cooked the eggs for 3 mins, then took them off the stove emptied the boiling water out and poured cold water on the eggs to stop them cooking.. I then placed half of the bread crumbs in a dish and the other half to coat the scotch eggs in . I peel the shells of the eggs , then mix the sausage meat, bread crumbs, spices then, put a ball of sausage meat in your hand and make a hollow, place the egg in the hollow and wrap sausage meat around it. then roll the egg in bread crumbs, once done deep fry for 5 or 6 mins, let cool an they are ready to eat, they are really good..
Mushroom Soup
oyster mushrooms
2 portobello mushrooms
White mushrooms slice all the mushrooms
1 onion diced
1 celery stalk diced
900 mills veg stock
fresh ground black pepper
1 tsp minced garlic
drizzle of truffle oil
olive oil
2 tbl spoons sour cream
in a pot placate Olive Oil, mushrooms onion and celery, and garlic sauté until soft add the stock bring to the boil and let cool a little, then I blend add sour cream and a drizzle of truffle oil and black pepper, mis and simmer this is delicious with home made bread , to dunk in .. As for the Mushrooms it is your choice of which ones to use, I find the Porcini mushroom has a very earthy taste to it, i usually have a pkg chefs blend dried mushrooms, but did not have this time..
Easter Dinner was a Roast Beef. small potatoes, the trivet was Onions,Carrots, and parsnip, I also did leeks in a Dill n Pepper sauce it was not bad, along with that yorkshire puddings all produce was from The real Canadian Super Store, and Save on Foods here in Fort McMurray..
After Supper Kare , Aaron, Asher and Miss Gracie face timed us, loved every second of the call. Them Matt, Krystal, Colin and Bailey brought dropped off the most amazing dessert a carrot cake bunt cake in bunny rabbit shapes, it was amazing . Along with Dessert Colin Hand made a leather Note Book for Grandads Birthday, it is beautifully done, great Job Colin.. Grandad will have this for ever.. #Safe Distancing was done.. I love my family, I am a hugger, I hug everyone, I cant wait for this to be Over , I have a lot of hugs to give.. Love y’all #StaySafe #Stay Home and this will all be over soon..
As its was good Friday, I decided on English Fish n Chips with a beer batter, boy was the batter ever light. What a treat, and today for lunch we had our tourtière Also very good.
Today I think I will do Scotch eggs and chicken wings and pour David a beer , like a British pub lol.. Easter is strange this year, we usually have a big family dinner , So I delivered tourtière yesterday to family.. I will face tome with the grand kids tomorrow . For Easter Dinner we are having a roast beef and all the trimmings. Here are a few easter traditions, a little different tot he ones I was used to in England
DYEING EASTER EGGS. The tradition of decorating eggs of all kinds—even ostrich eggs—may go all the way back to the ancient pagans. …
THE EASTER BUNNY. …
HOLLOW CHOCOLATE BUNNIES. …
EASTER BASKETS. …
HOT CROSS BUNS. …
EASTER FASHION PARADES. …
SUNRISE SERVICES. …
EASTER HAM.
British Easter Traditions.
INGREDIENTS this recipe is from Epicurious and is very good
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tablespoons extra-fine granulated sugar
Pinch of salt
1 egg
2 egg yolks
2 1/2 cups milk
2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
1/2 stick (1/4) cup unsalted butter
Granulated sugar, lemons, and oranges for garnish
PREPARATION
1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the egg and egg yolks, followed by the milk and 1 tablespoon of the vegetable oil. Continue whisking until there are no lumps. In a separate small saucepan, melt the butter until it is golden brown, and whisk it into the pancake mix. Leave the batter to rest for about 15 minutes.
Heat an 8-inch frying pan until hot, and add the remaining 1 tablespoon vegetable oil, tilting the pan to spread the oil across the bottom. When the oil starts to smoke, pour the excess into a small bowl for later use. Return the pan to the heat. You now have a sheer coating of oil remaining on the pan.
Pour 2 tablespoons of the batter into the pancake pan, tilting the pan to coat the bottom evenly. Cook until the underside of the pancake is golden brown, and then, using a spatula turn it over and cook the other side. Turn the pancake out onto an upturned dinner plate. Repeat until there is no more batter, using a bit of the reserved oil if the pan appears to be dry, or if the pancakes begin to stick. Continue to stack pancakes on top of each other on your dinner plate.
When finished, served the pancakes straightaway with the sugar for sprinkling and the lemon and orange wedges on the side for squeezing on the pancakes.
5. If you want to make the pancakes in advance, lightly butter an ovenproof tray, and sprinkle each pancake with sugar after you finish cooking it. Fold the pancakes in half and then half again, arranging them all neatly on the tray. Cover the tray with foil and bake at 350 degrees for about 15 minutes. Serve with the lemon and orange wedges.
English pancakes We have these on Shrove Tuesday, are different from American pancakes. They are much thinner and contain no leavening. They are closer to a French Crepe, only slightly thicker. Traditionally they are served on Shrove Tuesday, but are enjoyed year-around. They are best served straight from the pan. In my house the race is to try and make them faster than my children can eat them.Easter egg hunts. First of all, an easter egg is a hollow, egg-shaped chocolate treat. …
Egg painting. Eggs, as you may by now have guessed, are a big part of Easter in Britain. …
Hot Cross Buns. …
Maypole Dancing. …
Nutters dance. …
Morris Dancing. On Shrove Tuesday Pancake Day we would have pancake races..
I always got a new Easter outfit with hat gloves and new shoes When I was young as i got older in to my teens it was just a new dress and shoes..
During Easter in the UK, some people buy very colourful flowers to decorate their home. These flowers are considered ‘Easter flowers’. Also, lots of Churches around the UK hold flower festivals where they displays lots of Spring flowers. So buy some colourful flowers and celebrate Easter as well.
Here is the amazing recipe Simnel cake.doc If you don’t fancy cooking then you are in luck as there are many businesses delivering in Cumbria. Your favourite restaurant might be doing just that so give them a call or check out their Facebook page – you might be in luck!
Go for an Egg hunt!
The Easter Bunny still comes every year in our house so we will be designing an Easter Egg Hunt, in the garden if it’s a nice day. We get up early and lay the eggs out so it feels like Christmas morning when the kids wake up and go and explore! These are pics of past easters
The world is in turmoil, we are all trying to do our part, by staying home, its tough, we walk the dog twice a day and are eating healthy. I love cooking from scratch , I am reading a lot also, I ordered the Fabulous Finn Book he is an English Police dog and was injured in the line of duty, but he came back from the brink. I have also bee crocheting some different items, ponchos, slippers ,Challenge yourself to pick up a new hobby, or get back to an old one.writing my blog, keeping in touch with friends and family spread all over the world, face time and calling .. Keep a daily routine is important. The hardest thing for me is not being able to see my grandkids . We say Asher and Katie Wednesday from a distance, and Colin and Bailey yesterday also from a distance.. My heart is full Today I have been busy baking Tourtiers, One for Kate, Aaron and Asher , One for Krystal , Matt, Colin and Bailey and one for Deb and Rob Belanger .. One for us to.. For these I used
3 lb minced pork
1 lb minced beef
1lb minced turkey
2 onions diced
12 rashes of bacon cut in to tiny pieces
All Spice
Sage
Mace
Garlic
salt and pepper It made 4 pies today and I have enough for 2 more pies..
Utilize Online Resources – Ask for help: There are countless options for online learning. On our walk today we encountered a lady with her 2 little dogs we politely kept our distance, she is a health worker, we thanked her and told her to stay safe. I think this may be Mother natures way to cleanse the heart.. It seems so unreal..
Have a Very Happy Easter #StayHome and #Stay Safe
For my grand kids Colin,Bailey and Asher Gram and Grand love you #Stay Safe #Stay Home
This is a really old tradition Pace Eggs, my mom (Mam) did these every easter , I have always done the with the kids and grand kids, I start to save onion skins at Christmas , My Mam used to individually wrap the egg and onion skins in news paper and tied with thread, I put the eggs in a pan fill with water and dump in the Onion Skins I boiled them for about 7 mins … When we immigrated to Canada in 1980, I thought everyone did this!! Apparently not, it is a Cumbrian thing.. Here is a little info I found on line
Pace eggs………………….
an old cumbria tradition …..the eggs are boiled with onion skins to dye them ……the more skins used the richer the colour…then you polish them with a little dripping from the traditional easter sunday roast…… the reason for this is you hide the pace eggs and let the kids hunt them out……. afterwards then they are kept to play egg dumps down the pub…….egg dumps i hear you say….you pit your egg against everyone elses ….in turn you hold your egg in your clenched hand with the tip out and others hit the top of your egg with the pointed end……whoevers egg is left uncracked wins…….you normally win a free amount of beer at the pub depending on how good or mean the landlord is……………………. then the last bit is just mingin…….they peel the eggs and chuck them into a pack of crisps and swill them in vinegar……then the dirty sods eat them…….. yum…cant beat good old traditions lol..xxxx
The making of Pace Eggs by colouring and dying eggs is a longstanding British tradition at Easter time. Eggs are coloured using natural methods and ingredients (typically onion skins) and are boiled to be eaten on Good Friday and throughout the Easter weekend. It is also traditional to give one of these eggs to each person who visits your home throughout the Easter period. In some parts of the country – mainly the North West – these eggs are rolled down a hill, the winner being the owner of the egg which travels the furthest and survives with the least breaks in it. What ever the holiday I believe in keeping family traditions alive..
The world is in turmoil, comfort food is needed. I made a fave of Davids Stewed Links. David grew up eating these , these were quick and easy stewed sausages. Pkg Link sausages, 1 large onion, diced, 2 tomatoes diced , 1 pkg of Onion Soup mix . the British version is Bangers and Mash..
Comfort Food is what we crave in stressful times Scientists have known for some time now that eating calorie-rich foods, commonly known as comfort foods, can help ease stress, even though it can also add flab to the abdomen. Comfort foods provide pleasure and temporarily make us feel better. 1. Feel good. Eating food high in fat, sugar or salt activates the brain’s reward system. I guess we should eat these in moderation. Here are a few Healthy options , I found on the BBC Good Food page
Heat 2 tbsp of the oil in a saucepan or large flameproof casserole dish. Fry the onions for 10 mins until soft, then add the mushrooms and bacon and fry for another 5 mins until golden. Stir in the flour and cook for 2 mins more. Gradually pour in the stock, then bring to the boil and bubble for 2 mins. Add the kale and cook for another 5 mins, then stir in the mustard, crème fraîche, half the tarragon and the lemon juice. Spoon the mushroom mixture into four small baking dishes.
Heat the oven to 180C/160C fan/gas 4. Put the butter beans in a food processor with the remaining oil and tarragon and the lemon zest. Blitz until chunky, adding 2-3 tbsp water to loosen if needed.
Spoon the butter bean mixture over the filling, smoothing with the back of a spoon. Bake for 20-25 mins until golden. Leave to cool slightly, then serve.
Pork and apple stew with parsley & thyme dumplings
Pork & apple stew with parsley & thyme dumplings
This healthy family supper has dumplings that soak up all the flavours of cider, mustard and a hint of apple, and it’s 3 of your 5-a-day
Heat 1 tbsp of the oil in a flameproof and ovenproof dish. Add the onions, celery, bay and thyme, and fry for about 8 mins until softened. Add the pork and cook for a few mins until it changes colour, but it doesn’t need to brown as you don’t want to overcook it.
Stir in the mustard powder, garlic, flour and vinegar, then pour in the bouillon, stirring to prevent any lumps forming.
Add the apple, leeks and carrots, bring the liquid to the boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover the pan and simmer for 1 hr, stirring occasionally, until the pork and vegetables are tender.
When the stew is nearly cooked, heat oven to 190C/170C fan/gas 5. To make the dumplings, tip the flour, baking powder, mustard powder, parsley and thyme into a bowl and stir to combine. Put the yogurt in a jug, make up to 100ml with water, then stir in the oil. Lightly stir the liquid into the flour to make a soft, slightly sticky dough. Divide the dough equally into eight and shape into balls. Drop them on top of the stew, drizzling each one with the remaining oil. Bake for 20 mins until the dumplings are golden. Scatter with the extra thyme, if you like, before serving
In a medium bowl, mix all the marinade ingredients with some seasoning. Chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss with the marinade. Cover and chill in the fridge for 1 hr or overnight.
In a large, heavy saucepan, heat the oil. Add the onion, garlic, green chilli, ginger and some seasoning. Fry on a medium heat for 10 mins or until soft.
Add the spices with the tomato purée, cook for a further 2 mins until fragrant, then add the stock and marinated chicken. Cook for 15 mins, then add any remaining marinade left in the bowl. Simmer for 5 mins, then sprinkle with the toasted almonds. Serve with rice, naan bread, chutney, coriander and lime wedges, if you like.
TY BBC Good Food for these healthy comfort food recipes. I Love them As I do i adjust these to what I like.
I have been wanting to make this Octopus Stew for a while, Thank you to a friend in Mary Monteiro Kitimat BC a very long time ago, she introduced us to this amazing dish!! Only missing chorizo sausage!! Next time I also made a pot of stewed Links a fave of Davids when he was growing up..
We made a lot of great friends in Kitimat, they were like family.. The Street we lived in was 90 % Portugese, they were great!! It was a great place to bring up children, Ian was born in the UK, Victoria and Katie were both born in Kitimat BC Dr Kerswell delivered them both.. The fishing was great, david would take the Kids fishing . We got our first Springer Meg , we mated her to beautiful Springer Spencer, June 1998 Meg had 8 beautiful springer puppies, we kept one and called her Molly..
What a great way to start the day, this is one of our fave breakfasts.. 1 Avocado, 1/2 a tomato, Diced 1/4 onion Diced 2 garlic cloves diced , squeeze of Lime juice , fresh ground black pepper. Quinoa bread toasted..
Avocados and Health benefits An avocado a day is good for your health. Eating an avocado a day is good for your health. Avocados are a fun food to eat, they’re nutritious, and they’re a good source of monounsaturated fat, which can reduce your risk of heart disease
Nutritious and DeliciousThe avocado is one of the most nutrient-dense foods available. Ounce for ounce, they are among the richest in fiber, folate, potassium, vitamin E, and magnesium among all fruits. This nutrition profile makes it a worthy Superfood.
You can find avocados almost everywhere — from grocery stores and farmers markets to chocolate pudding recipes. Try cooking with Avocados it is a healthy fat ..
Avocado Brownies
1 ripe avocado, cubed
2 eggs
½ cup honey
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
⅔ cup flour,
¼ cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking powder
Preheat oven to 350°F.
In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, eggs, honey and vanilla extract. Blend until smooth, scraping down sides as necessary.
In a large bowl, whisk the flour, cocoa powder and baking powder.
Combine the wet and dry mixtures and fold until a batter forms. Pour batter into a greased 8×8 inch baking pan.
Bake for 20-30 minutes. Allow to cool.
Avocados are also great in your morning smoothies. Stay Safe out there and stay healthy.. Sending you a virtual hug
Hey guys, we are all finding the Covid 19 Virus, having to stay home Stress full.. It is important to stay healthy cooking from scratch, eating our fruits and veggies .. I also try to do a little Yoga and meditation..
This morning I cooked a truffle chicken, the flavour is amazing.. We are having this with a layered salad , it originally was a 7 layered salad, I have just adjusted the recipe, I usually make this the night before , I have made a home made dressing for this..
Traditional 7 layer salad!
iceberg lettuce
-cheese
-hard boiled eggs
-peas
-tomatoes
-green onions
-bacon,
The original salad the dressing in placed on top of the salad, it is mayo, sour cream a little sugar and garlic.. If you have a face dressing , just use that.
You can add different ingredients to your own seven layer salad version if you would like to, but be careful how much you stray.
Making your seven layer salad in advance
Because the ingredients in this version are pretty durable you can easily make this salad one to two days in advance and “seal” the vegetables in with the dressing layer on top, cover it in plastic wrap and refrigerate it. I made mine two days ahead and then served it and it was just as crispy as when I made it.
How to mix your seven layer salad for serving
The answer to that is, you don’t.
We use a spoon with a very long handle and encourage people to dig deep, get a little of everything in one scoop and mix it on their plates.
How to Meditate it is easy find a quiet place in the house
Sit or lie comfortably. I have my Yoga mat I sit on cross legged
Close your eyes. …
Make no effort to control the breath; simply breathe naturally.
Focus your attention on the breath and on how the body moves with each inhalation and exhalation. I imagine being by the Ocean, do this for 10 mins daily. I then take George out. Both George and I really love these walks. through the day I usually do a little crocheting, Usually #Hugs4Cops Blankets lately I have been trying to make slippers or booties..
Yesterday we had the red pepper pasta sauce with crab meat, I made a Pizza and garlic bread , this is my stress relief cooking, and going for long walks with George , he loves the snow, i guess he is my snow angel..
5 health benefits of red peppers
Red peppers contain more than 200 percent of your daily vitamin C intake. …
Red bell peppers are a great source of vitamin B6 and folate. …
Red bell peppers help support healthy night vision. …
Red bell peppers are packed with antioxidants. …
Burn more calories with red bell peppers.
Salad pizza
Enjoy your red pepper on the world’s healthiest pizza! Ezekiel wraps contains six sprouted grains and legumes that are combined to create a complete protein.
Ingredients: 2 8 inch wraps, what ever wraps you like 1/4 cup cheese , your fave cheese 1 tbsp basil pesto, dairy-free 1 small green zucchini, shredded 1/4 large red peppers, cut into strips 4 garlic stuffed olives, sliced if you like these 4 snap peas, sliced 1/2 tsp rosemary, fresh or dried 1 tsp dried parsley flakes
you can really put any toppings on the salad pizza
Directions:
1. Place wraps on cookie sheet and low broil for 2 minutes on each side. 2. Sprinkle cheese evenly across entire wrap and broil 1 minute more. 3. Spread pesto evenly over cheese, then arrange the zucchini, peppers, olives and snap peas. 4. Top with rosemary and parsley. Makes 2 pizzas.
This is another fave meal of Davids, Chicken n broccoli, chowmein and spring rolls.. I love cooking from scratch, especially right now, as i have a lot of time on my hands , #StayHomeandCook. How are you all managing staying home, I have actually been doodling , I saw a pic of Peter Rabbit and I tried to copy it
I think i am going to make a red pepper pasta sauce for dinner tomorrow, last time I made it I added a can of crab meat oh boy was it ever good.. The pics below Home made Fusilli Pasta, home made bread, home made red pepper sauce with scallops. Tomorrow I will be making the red pepper sauce with crab yummy . I don’t always have these sauces on pasta, I use different Ancient grains, Like Millet , Farro, Spelt Bulgur, Buckwheat, Quinoa Ancient grains make a perfect side dish, any time, any season. Convenient, inexpensive and incredibly delicious, they are rich in carbohydrates, the body’s main fuel supply, as well as vitamins, minerals, fiber, antioxidants and phytonutrients. Add dried or fresh herbs, spices, nuts, seeds, cheeses or vegetables —
Here is some info i found on the web, it is interesting
Health benefits of ancient grainsAncient grains in their “whole grain” form provide fibre, vitamins and minerals, and healthy fats. Research shows that people who eat more whole grains may have a lower risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and some cancers.
Of all the current food trends, ancient grains might just be the original. This collection of nutritious whole grains are barley, kamut, millet, teff, oats, freekeh, bulgur, sorghum, buckwheat, amaranth, quinoa, chia and farro. And just to make the Jewish connection even clearer, all but teff, quinoa, amaranth and chia originated in the Fertile Crescent, which was home to the first Jews — present-day Lebanon, Syria, Turkey Iraq, Iran, Israel, Jordan and Egypt. These grains are considered “ancient” not only because they originated so long ago but also because their basic structure, taste and appearance has stayed the same since they were developed by the first agriculturists.
Combine grains and water in a medium saucepan. If desired, add 1/2 tsp salt. Cover and bring to a boil over high heat. simmer on low heat for the specified cooking time.
Remove the lid and test the grains for tenderness. If more cooking is needed, recover and cook for 5 to 10 minutes, adding up to 1/4 cup water if all the water has been absorbed.
Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
Buckwheat groats: Prepare as directed, but bring water to a boil before adding the groats. Return to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for the specified cooking time.
Bulgur: Bulgur can also be soaked, rather than cooked, for use in salads and other preparations. Place bulgur in a large bowl and cover with an equal amount of boiling water. Let stand for about 30 minutes or until water is absorbed. Fluff bulgur with a fork.
Farro: Prepare as directed, but drain the excess water when farro is tender. Use immediately
#StayHome #StaySAfe #washyourhands #StayHealthy Love Y’all
Each of these potato topped pies consists of meat, mashed potatoes and if you like, though not traditional, a little cheese sprinkled on top. Significantly different in the Cumberland Pie, it has an extra layer of toasted breadcrumbs and cheese which is mixed either with the mashed potato or the breadcrumbs; again it is a case of personal preference,
A little history on a Cumberland pie, I found on the web.
The Cumberland Pie may have become no more than a dressed up Cottage Pie sprinkled with cheese and breadcrumbs, but its history goes so much further. The pie has its roots in medieval times when it would be made with a variety of meats, Herdwick mutton, or perhaps game, dried fruit and sweetened but not sugary by the use of apples in the recipe and spices. This mix of meat, spices, and fruit is not dissimilar to the original Mince Pies once made by a similar filling and not to be confused with the Christmas mince pies we are so familiar with today.
In medieval times, the pie was a pastry crust and not potato as we know it now. Why and when it changed to potato is not known.
Ask anyone in Britain for a Cumberland Pie and you will get the modern version, except in and around Cumbria and the Lake District in the North West. This region is the home of the pie and thankfully where it still exists. It is eaten and enjoyed by locals, tourists and those walking in this beautiful part of the United Kingdom. Rarely will you find one outside of the North West, which really is a shame.
Lazy Mans Cabbage Rolls or Holopshy . Very budget Friendly I used Ground Turkey .420 kg , 1 cup of Rice, 1 Large Can of tomatoes, 1 medium cabbage sliced thin, 1 small onion diced ,Worstershire sauce , mustard powder, 3 cloves of garlic diced, fresh ground black pepper . place some tomato and juice on the bottom of the roasting pan. place a layer of onions and cabbage in the bottom of the roasting pan, place the rice and ground turkey mis, layer it over the Cabbage, then place another layer of sliced cabbage and onion over the turkey Rice mix . add 1 cup of water to the tomato and spice mix and pour over the cabbage, leave in refrigerator until tomorrow. you may also ad a can of tomato soup ..Bake in a 360 f oven for approx. 1 .5 hrs , serve with sour cream
I used ground Turkey you can use what ever meat you like , I have only used 1/2 the amount of meat. some times I mix peppers with the cabbage. This is one of Davids fave meals. Im not sure where i first had this, I do know it was in Kitimat. Possibly got it from someone at the hospital when I worked there, in Dietary , I loved that job..
Fast facts on cabbage Info I got on a web site ..
Cabbage is a cruciferous vegetable.
A chemical in cabbage may protect against the negative effects of radiation.
The sulforaphane found in cabbage may help protect against cancer.
Half a cup of cooked cabbage contains 81.5 micrograms of vitamin K.
Consuming fruits and vegetables of all kinds has long been associated with a reduced risk of many adverse health conditions.
Many studies have suggested that increasing consumption of plant-based foods like cabbage decreases the risk of diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and overall mortality. It can also help promote a healthy complexion, increased energy, and overall lower weight.
Where do cabbage rolls originate?Historically cabbage rolls has roots in ancient middle east and spread to Eastern Europe as trade roots developed and people migrated. Some Jewish historians has found indications that stuffed cabbage rolls were part of Jewish food tradition as early as 1500 years ago.
As for the tomato sauce, they are packed with Vitamins C, A, B6, niacin, folate and lycopene are believed to put the skids on various cancers, along with heart- and age-related diseases.
Cooking from scratch means buying more basic ingredients. It means probably using more fruits and vegetables, and less pre-made sauces loaded with sugar and salt. Overall, yes, this is definitely healthier. Less garbage to
Why Home Cooking?
There are so many reasons to cook at home, it’s surprising that we aren’t all doing it at least some of the time. For starters, research shows that regularly eating home-cooked meals as a family is linked to healthier and happier kids. I love Cooking from scratch, giving away som of what I cook to friends and family.. My mom was a great cook, I do anything to cook with her one more time.. Stay Safe out there, this is a scary time.. Love Y’all
Fish and Chips , if ever you go to the UK you have to try their fish and chips , yummy Best place to eat fish and chips is by the Sea.. Bangers and Mash is another British fave .. Most pubs have this their menu .. The Full English Breakfast This breakfast usually includes: bacon, sausages, eggs, baked beans, toast, mushrooms, tomatoes, hash browns and black puddings. Then you have the Sunday Dinner a roast, Yorkshire Puddings , roast potatoes, mashed potatoes and a couple of veggies. Toad in the Hole I made last-night . Shepards Pie or Cottage pie, I have a few variations of this.. A good Old Cumbrian Hotpor made with lamb and black pudding. Ohhhh Steak and Kidney pie I love this The ingredients include: beef, kidney, fried onion and gravy all wrapped up in pastry, probably not the healthiest but oh so good
mix together the milk, eggs, flour and 2 tsp salt in a food processor or blender until you have a smooth batter. If you don’t have a food processor or blender, whisk the eggs into the flour and salt, then gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Transfer to a jug, cover and leave at room temperature for at least 15 mins. Heat oven to 400 F and brush 12 holes of a muffin tin with the oil. Heat the tin cook for a further 25/30 mins until puffed, risen and golden. Most eaten with HP Sauce, pickled Onions, Malt Vinegar on your Chips Salad Cream on your Salad and end with a Cup Of tea.. Oh boy I am homesick..
This is a very scary time for the world, lets try to stay healthy, eating Veggies and fruits, respecting the #SocialDistancing #WashingHands.. I have been doing a lot of cooking this past 2 weeks, home made soups, veggie pasta sauce, bean stews, Last night I made Scotch eggs, and Toad in the Hole.. I think my batter was a little to thick , Cooked that with Duck fat and boy did it taste amazing . The scotch eggs I added my home grown parsley and oregano in the mix.
Here is some info I found on the web, I googled old fashioned Flu Remedies here is what I got.. The Spanish flu epidemic of 1918 brought with it a slew of folk-medicine remedies. After all, the flu was scary—and there was no vaccine or cure for it yet. At the very least, home remedies offered terrified Americans some semblance of control. In Chicago, families would shut all the widows and doors and boil ripe red peppers to stave off the virus. In Louisiana, one hospital superintendent recommended a quilt made of wormwood, sewn between layers of flannel and dipped in hot vinegar. But perhaps the most questionable preventative measure of all was wearing the color red, which according to some folk-medicine records, the flu “didn’t like.” According to a book about the pandemic, one American even penned a letter to the Public Health Service suggesting that servicemen wear a red ribbon around the chest, because “the flu is the Devil and Devil don’t work with red.” And if you think that’s amazing
Once one person in a household came down with the flu, others would soon be infected as well. To try and prevent that, some families would slice onions and place them around the house. it was thought that the onions could “absorb” the virus and prevent others from catching it. Unfortunately, we now know that’s not quite how flu works. The National Onion Association guesses this one likely originated as a medieval measure against the plague. And it didn’t work then, either. My Mom always said a Hot Rum Toddy helps Not sure but worth a try LOL
here is a recipe I love, healthy to
Ingredients
1 broiler/fryer chicken (3-1/2 to 4 pounds), cut up
10 cups cold water
5 chicken bouillon cubes
6 whole peppercorns
3 whole cloves
2 large chopped carrots
1 cup fresh or frozen peas
2 stalks chopped celery
1 cup chopped peeled potatoes
1 large chopped onion
1-1/2 teaspoons seasoned salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 bay leaf optional
DUMPLINGS:
2 cups all-purpose flour
4 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 large egg, beaten
2 tablespoons butter, melted
3/4 to 1 cup whole milk
Snipped fresh parsley, optional
Place the chicken, water, bouillon, peppercorns and cloves in a stockpot. Cover and bring to a boil; skim foam. Reduce heat; cover and simmer 45-60 minutes or until chicken is tender. Strain broth; return to stockpot. with veggies and chopped chicken Good Home Cooking
Is chicken soup good for the flu?In fact, chicken soup is good for soothing both cold and flu symptoms. The hot souphelps break up the congestion associated with both colds and the flu. The salt in the soup and its warmth can soothe a sore throat. … A scientific study found that chicken soup has anti-inflammatory properties.
Soups to Eat When You Feel Sick
Chicken Noodle Soup. It’s a classic for a reason, not only does chicken noodle soup taste great, it really can help your body recover from cold and flu symptoms. …
David Heads Back to work today for 14 ,13 hour days then an hours drive to and from work.. So I got a chicken and rubbed a little truffle Oil and Herbs De Provence , I placed the chicken on a trivet of Onions and Carrots , 2 chicken stock cube and water.. The Smell of this cooking is amazing.. David asked for just chunky boiled potatoes with a little butter on, I also did Brussel Sprouts.. I had plans to make a chicken n veg pot pie with the left overs!! Not so As there isn’t enough left LOL Zoo I am doing a Veggie Fried Rice tonight with the left over chicken lol
So a Sunday dinner on a Tuesday, I love doing roast dinners , they are so easy..
Your gut is really just another term for your digestive tract, an intricate system that performs many vital functions to help break down the food you eat. As food enters your mouth and begins the process of digestion, it passes through several steps along the way, including your small intestine and large intestine. In the small intestine, enzymes are released by the pancreas and bile from the liver to help break down food so the nutrients can be absorbed into your bloodstream. The large intestine absorbs large quantities of water and electrolytes and helps remove waste matter and other substances your body does not need.
Microflora or “Gut” Flora
There is a complex ecosystem of bacteria (also referred to as microflora or flora) that lives in your intestinal tract. This bacterial ecosystem is called the gut microbiota (or your microbiome). You’re not born with this bacterial ecosystem; it starts to develop after birth and becomes more sophisticated and varied based on influencing factors such as your diet, stress levels, antibiotics and different life stages including puberty, pregnancy and menopause. Your gut bacteria are an integral part of your digestive system. When your diet and health change, so does the composition of your gut flora.
why a healthy gut is important
You have about 100 trillion gut bacteria cells in your intestinal tract – that’s ten times the number of cells in your entire body! While most of these bacteria are not harmful, some can cause certain diseases. Under normal circumstances, the ‘good’ bacteria far outnumber the ‘bad’, but any shift in this balance may affect how well your digestive tract functions. There are several factors that can influence the shift in gut flora, including stress, antibiotics, illness, aging, and diet.The good news is, your gut health is in your control. There are many easy ways to improve your overall gut health. Remember, this doesn’t mean you have to make a drastic overhaul – even small steps can have an impact. We changed our diet slowly, cutting out a lot of processed foods , Once in a wile we will have fast food.. I have made a conscious effort to cook from scratch. Focusing on Gut health , it is almost 1 year since my Stoma Reversal, I never thought I could have got my life back.. Here I am working t the Hospital, a very physical job. I love it I am working in Patient Food Services.. After my surgery last year, I thought that I would like to get back in to working in Food Services..
I had a left over Bbq steak , I already knew when BBQing the steaks thatI was going to make a Philly Cheese steak, this is what we had for Supper last night , lots of bell peppers . Today I made a bean Chilli, not 100 % Plant based as I used 2 Rashers of bacon , smoked paprika, there are lots of levels of flavour in this chilli, 4 different types of beans.. The last pic is one of our fave snacks, Chickpea Greek Salad this will be ready to eat tomorrow..
Beans gut microbiomeBeans. Legumes help release short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) that strengthen your intestine cells and improve absorption of micronutrients. They also feed your gut flora and help regulate a healthy gut. If you eat fermented beans like lacto-fermented lentils, chickpea, or miso, it’s a bonus!
What is the microbiome?
The human microbiome is a complex collection of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms that inhabit body surfaces, including the skin and digestive tract. The majority of the microbiome lives in the gut, where there are more than 1000 different species of bacteria.
Especially now eating a healthy, balanced diet is so important this week I have had a few days to do what I love and that is to cook, healthy, scratch meals
Both David and I cook , it was decently our anniversary, so we had an Anniversary weekend, I marinated steaks for 3 days in Lea and Perrin’s, garlic salt and pepper oh my these were good, then the next day David Poached the Halibut in Vodka vermouth with a little Rosemary. Our actual anniversary David picked up some Lobster yummy!! Then back to a little plant Based eating. Stay Safe out these please remember to wear your mask, sanitise tour hands and get vaccinated
Crazy times, Im thinking its like our parents went through in the WW1 and 2!! Or even further back, TB, Diphtheria, all the flus, even childhood deseases measles and Mumps, chicken pox ( I had that ugh) Mumps . I found this on line not my words but I found this very interesting
Pandemics and Pandemic Threats since 1900
Historical Overview
History suggests that influenza pandemics have probably happened during at least the last four centuries. Since 1900, three pandemics and several “pandemic threats” have occurred.
1918: Spanish Flu
The Spanish Influenza pandemic is the catastrophe against which all modern pandemics are measured. It is estimated that approximately 20 to 40 percent of the worldwide population became ill and that over 50 million people died. Between September 1918 and April 1919, approximately 675,000 deaths from the flu occurred in the U.S. alone. Many people died from this very quickly. Some people who felt well in the morning became sick by noon, and were dead by nightfall. Those who did not succumb to the disease within the first few days often died of complications from the flu (such as pneumonia) caused by bacteria.
One of the most unusual aspects of the Spanish flu was its ability to kill young adults. The reasons for this remain uncertain. With the Spanish flu, mortality rates were high among healthy adults as well as the usual high-risk groups. The attack rate and mortality was highest among adults 20 to 50 years old. The severity of that virus has not been seen again.
1957: Asian Flu
In February 1957, the Asian influenza pandemic was first identified in the Far East. Immunity to this strain was rare in people less than 65 years of age, and a pandemic was predicted. In preparation, vaccine production began in late May 1957, and health officials increased surveillance for flu outbreaks.
Unlike the virus that caused the 1918 pandemic, the 1957 pandemic virus was quickly identified, due to advances in scientific technology. Vaccine was available in limited supply by August 1957. The virus came to the U.S. quietly, with a series of small outbreaks over the summer of 1957. When U.S. children went back to school in the fall, they spread the disease in classrooms and brought it home to their families. Infection rates were highest among school children, young adults, and pregnant women in October 1957. Most influenza-and pneumonia-related deaths occurred between September 1957 and March 1958. The elderly had the highest rates of death.
By December 1957, the worst seemed to be over. However, during January and February 1958, there was another wave of illness among the elderly. This is an example of the potential “second wave” of infections that can develop during a pandemic. The disease infects one group of people first, infections appear to decrease and then infections increase in a different part of the population. Although the Asian flu pandemic was not as devastating as the Spanish flu, about 69,800 people in the U.S. died.
1968: Hong Kong Flu
In early 1968, the Hong Kong influenza pandemic was first detected in Hong Kong. The first cases in the U.S. were detected as early as September of that year, but illness did not become widespread in the U.S. until December. Deaths from this virus peaked in December 1968 and January 1969. Those over the age of 65 were most likely to die. The same virus returned in 1970 and 1972. The number of deaths between September 1968 and March 1969 for this pandemic was 33,800, making it the mildest pandemic in the 20th century.
There could be several reasons why fewer people in the U.S. died due to this virus. First, the Hong Kong flu virus was similar in some ways to the Asian flu virus that circulated between 1957 and 1968. Earlier infections by the Asian flu virus might have provided some immunity against the Hong Kong flu virus that may have helped to reduce the severity of illness during the Hong Kong pandemic. Second, instead of peaking in September or October, like pandemic influenza had in the previous two pandemics, this pandemic did not gain momentum until near the school holidays in December. Since children were at home and did not infect one another at school, the rate of influenza illness among schoolchildren and their families declined. Third, improved medical care and antibiotics that are more effective for secondary bacterial infections were available for those who became ill.
1976: Swine Flu Threat
When a novel virus was first identified at Fort Dix, it was labeled the “killer flu.” Experts were extremely concerned because the virus was thought to be related to the Spanish flu virus of 1918. The concern that a major pandemic could sweep across the world led to a mass vaccination campaign in the United States. In fact, the virus–later named “swine flu”–never moved outside the Fort Dix area. Research on the virus later showed that if it had spread, it would probably have been much less deadly than the Spanish flu.
1977: Russian Flu Threat
In May 1977, influenza A/H1N1 viruses isolated in northern China, spread rapidly, and caused epidemic disease in children and young adults (< 23 years) worldwide. The 1977 virus was similar to other A/H1N1 viruses that had circulated prior to 1957. (In 1957, the A/H1N1 virus was replaced by the new A/H2N2 viruses). Because of the timing of the appearance of these viruses, persons born before 1957 were likely to have been exposed to A/H1N1 viruses and to have developed immunity against A/H1N1 viruses. Therefore, when the A/H1N1 reappeared in 1977, many people over the age of 23 had some protection against the virus and it was primarily younger people who became ill from A/H1N1 infections. By January 1978, the virus had spread around the world, including the United States. Because illness occurred primarily in children, this event was not considered a true pandemic. Vaccine containing this virus was not produced in time for the 1977-78 season, but the virus was included in the 1978-79 vaccine.
1997: Avian Flu Threat
The most recent pandemic “threats” occurred in 1997 and 1999. In 1997, at least a few hundred people became infected with the avian A/H5N1 flu virus in Hong Kong and 18 people were hospitalized. Six of the hospitalized persons died. This virus was different because it moved directly from chickens to people, rather than having been altered by infecting pigs as an intermediate host. In addition, many of the most severe illnesses occurred in young adults similar to illnesses caused by the 1918 Spanish flu virus. To prevent the spread of this virus, all chickens (approximately 1.5 million) in Hong Kong were slaughtered. The avian flu did not easily spread from one person to another, and after the poultry slaughter, no new human infections were found.
In 1999, another novel avian flu virus – A/H9N2 – was found that caused illnesses in two children in Hong Kong. Although both of these viruses have not gone on to start pandemics, their continued presence in birds, their ability to infect humans, and the ability of influenza viruses to change and become more transmissible among people is an ongoing concern.
We can get through this.. Eating right, exercise, mental health is a huge thing.. David and I love to cook and this helps us relax and eat well..
I did a Jamie Oliver Dish last week Sicilian Pasta OMG few ingredients but packed with flavour, I made a duple batch. I would love to cook with Jamie Oliver
Oops I accidentally froze my tomatoes so What do I do!!
Make a Marinara Sauce, it is a versatile sauce, it can be a pizza sauce or use for pasta , I will add a little to the Portuguese Fish Stew I will make again soon!!
I like to keep a jar of roasted red peppers in the fridge as these are a great addition to any dish, I added 2 to my Marinara Sauce. After putting in the food processor (Wazzer ) LOL a Jamie Oliver term, I also used a Jamie Oliver hack when freezing the sauce , I flatten it and freeze flat this way the storing in the freezer is easy!!
Marinara
Ingredients
8 plumb tomatoes
1 large beef steak tomato
1 red onion
2 roasted red peppers
1 jalapeño de seeded
fresh ground black pepper
1 tsp minced garlic
sot of hot sauce
1/2 cup of red wine,
cook onions and tomatoes until soft ass jalapeño and red peppers, add spices and simmer until reduced by 1/2 cool and put in to food processor !! This will keep in the fridge for 1 week , instead of fresh tomatoes you can use 2 large cans of tomatoes 2 x 796 mls
Today I made a Corn beef hash, this is our day for comfort food! We will have this with a reed egg on top pics to come
Ingredients,
1 large onion
1 diced pepper your choice red, green to orange, 2 plumb tomatoes diced
1 jalapeño de seeded
1 small can corned beef or deli corned beef
2 cups of mashed potatoes
fresh ground black pepper
1 test minced garlic
Hot sauce just a splash
Cook veggies un til soft add corned beef , simmer for 5 mins add potatoes cook on low for about 15 mins , serve with a poached egg or a fried egg, you can make this with chicken or turkey , use a little sage and savoury with these..
Covid numbers are high here in Fort McMurray, I worry about my friends and family.
Yesterday Sunday the 18th there was 752 cases and rising..
David and I got the Astra Zeneca Vaccine I am so glad to be protected. I did get a reaction, We think it was because it was close to me getting a tetanus shot. It lasted a couple of days! A small price to pay!
Ian got the Pfizer Vaccine.. Please get Vaccinated so we can get a Herd Immunity going.. Wear a Mask, Social Distance and sanitise your hands .. Just read we have had another Covid Death here in Fort McMurray, today numbers are at 822!!
George went to Nisa to get groomed , he looks amazing . TY Nisa you are da best!! This is a short Blog but will try to do another later in the week,. Will do some more scratch/ Plant based recipes..
Once again it is back to Lockdown and restrictions !! Lets cook Healthy and think of the time , when we can hug our Family and friends .. I want to hug my Grand Kids Colin, Bailey and Little Asher .. When we grocery shop we shop from the Outer lanes of the Store as these are fresh ingredients!!
Portobello Mushroom Burgers are one of our fave meals.. We also love eating and making a British fave Halibut and Chips, the batter is so light and crispy !! I use 3/4 cup Flour, 1/4 cup corn starch add a little baking powder a little baking Soda and salt, I use beer as the liquid, ..
Above Is a Stuffed Pepper, made in a Louisiana style beans and rice with hot peppers and smoked paprika!! Budget friendly and health.. With me working at the Hospital now, I don’t have a lot of time to cook as much as I did. Planning meals is a great way to budget..
Second pic is one of Davids fave meals my Lasagna, he never looks forward to it but loves it.. I made this with ground Turkey , onions, celery, tomatoes, dices peppers, red, green and yellow!! ( the tops of the peppers I stuffed) spinach! cottage cheese and topped with my cheese sauce!! Yesterday I worked 6-11 am so was home early I made the Twisty Bread it is a Jamie Oliver recipe his Rustic bread.. These are a twisty bread pull apart sandwiches filled with Ham, Cheese and mustard them baked Oh my goodness these are amazing , I made my Acorn Squash Soup to have with these!!
Ian is home from Camp, he had his Covid Shot, now David, Ian and I have all had our first shot and feel very blessed and relieved. Ian bought Chinese food last night, it was quite the treat!!
A little off topic but George got Groomed on Friday , He goes to Nisa and he looks amazing and he is feeling amazing and has a spring in his step!! Ian, bought him a new Star Wars Bow tie a star wars Bandana and a wookie Bandana to come, he has quite a collection on bow ties..
Jamie Olivers Rustic Bread I love this
1 sachet of dry yeast
a little sugar
1kg strong flour
650ml tepid water
Method
1. Pour 650ml of tepid water – warm (ish) – into a large bowl, add one sachet of dried yeast and mix with a fork. Jamie says you can also add a teaspoon of sugar or honey at this point to wake the yeast up. After a couple of minutes you should see bubbles forming – that’s the carbon dioxide that will make the bread spongey.
2. Add in most of the flour and a pinch of sea salt, and mix together with a fork until you can’t move it anymore.
3. With clean hands, start to mix the dough together to bring to a ball of dough – dust your hands with a little flour if the dough is sticking to them. I use my Kitchen Aid Mixer so it is really fast. I half the dough once done Make on half in to bread and theOther in to buns or twisty bread ..
Acorn Squash Soup Prep 20 mins cooking time an hour,
2 acorn squash, halved and seeded , cut in to cubes
water, as needed
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 large sweet onion, chopped
1 large carrot, peeled and chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
3 ½ Veg Stock
¼ cup half-and-half or 3 tbl spoons sour cream
½ Sage
1 savoury
1/2 Cayenne Pepper
black perter freshly ground
a little white pepper
2 table spoons parmesan cheese mixed in to soup
salt to taste
1 pinch salt and ground black pepper to taste
After the squash is cooked , I put in my food processor or as Jamie Oliver says the Wazzer.. lol
Please stay safe, social distance, wear your mask, sanitise your hands so that we can hug our loved ones soon .. I want to cook for my friends and family Love and Miss you all …
Ian did some grocery Shopping, yesterday. He bought a small beef roast, I decided to put this in
the Quick Pot , lots of veggies!! a cup of red wine this will tenderise the beef, Smells Amazing, with the roast we will get a lot of meals out of this using the meat as an ingredient!I also did some rustic mash!! Scrub the potatoes, leaving on the skin cut up and place in pot with a pinch of salt.. boil!! Once ready add a knob of butter, soup cream , horseradish and if you have a little butter milk ..
Already planning a recipe for The beef roast. Oh yeah Beef and Broccoli in 20 minutes and a Beef Stroganoff for another meal
1 (8 ounce) package egg noodles
1/2 pound ground beef ( Slice the roast thinly!)
Mushrooms I like King Oyster and button
1 tablespoon garlic powder or minced garlic
1 cup beef stock to your amazing gravy
½ cup sour cream
salt and pepper to taste
We will get a lot of meals out of this using it as an ingredient and not the biggest part of our meal..
Yesterday I delivered my easter parcels to the grandkids not forgetting the Grand Fur Babies.. I would have loved to see them but didn’t, a tear was shed..
This past year has been a tough one for everyone, Physically and mentally. It is 11 months since I had my resection with the amazing Dr Indar .. I never thought a year later I was going to feel this well.. My job can be a physically tough job, but amazing. . Alot of walking and I actually have a spring in my step, I love tracking the steps weather it is a 5 hour shift t or 3 hour shift which is a really busy shift. This is the one where most steps are taken averaging 7,500 on a reg day (3 hrs) .. We just all need to get our vaccines, and get the herd Immunity going I need to see my family and grandkids. I can not wait to cook a big family dinner using my new Lagostina Pots!! they are the best
A tale of Peter rabbit by Beatrix potter Love this !
Once again Traditions, today I made the Rice Crispy Choc nests, my mom used to do these, but with Corn Flakes.. I have kept up this tradition with my kids, and now my Grandkids.. Colin, Bailey and Asher..
With David and I back in the workforce cooking time is limited, but when I do I batch cook.. I Like to challenge my self by making plant based recipes! I love cooking with Lentils they are so versatile. I made David a Dahl for a couple of his lunches he loved it, I added a little spice. Then another plant based recipe Stuffed Poblano peppers, Rice and beans with a tomato sauce and cheese these are one of our fave meals I like to cook,
TY Bobby flay, I saw him cook this and I liked it, I use a recipe as a guide, I tend to do it my way!! I used Anaheim peppers and Poblano
BBqs are fun, this is a fave of ours the Portobello Mushroom Burger, I take the skin off the Mushroom , rub it all over with Garlic oil, & Black pepper, I also do this to the red pepper and Bbq these.
Eating Plant based is fun and you feel so much healthier, once in a while we have meat , and fish but use this as an ingredient not the main part of the dish
Anthony Bourdain was one of my fave Chefs, this recipe he did on one of his shows, Portuguese Fish Stew, once again I used the recipe as a guide and I added to it with a twist.. My Way the Intuitive Chef!!
The Smells of this cooking brought memories back of when we lived in Kitimat BC..
I made Fresh Bread using Jamie Olivers Rustic bread there are 5 ingredients in this and it is so easy!! I also made twisty bread!!
Had a Crisp white wine, it was perfect match!
Its time for a Veggie Chilli!! there are a few different levels of flavours, and you don’t miss the meat.. Very tasty I made a fresh tomato sauce using beef steak tomatoes, garlic, Oregno, smoked paprika, fresh ground black pepper, Fresno pepper with half of the seed out, a Anaheim pepper . 2 large onions.. this is for Supper tonight..
Cooking is my yoga, I cant wait to cook for family and friends. I really miss you, most of all the hugs from my grand kids.. Happy Easter to Y’all stay Safe and get your vaccine..
Happy St Paddys Day!! One of the Best Holidays we had was in NYC for St Paddy’s day!! That was the time we stayed in the Waldorf Astoria!! Oh my
These photos here from the Waldorf Astoria Website a beautiful old Hotel!! So We had a Waldorf Salad in the Waldorf, Had a Manhattan in Manhattan. and a New York Steak, lol .. I am so glad we travelled, such times as were , the memories are what get us through.. Saw the Naked Cow Boy, all he was wearing was his boots, hat and undies,.. Not My pics I will have to look mine out LOL !! these were on the web!!
This trip we met Billy Connolly he was such a nice guy
The Springer pics are so cute this is still when Gracie Lived with us!! Memories ..
Back to Budget Cooking, or Planning ahead !! The Hutterites come to town a few times a year and their produce and meats are the best!! We bought some Chickens they were huge Average 7 1bs I believe. These are like small turkeys and will feed a lot of people! Just happened we had 2 in the freezer, I defrosted one!! Rubbed the chicken with truffle oil salt and fresh ground black pepper the rubbed in Herbs de Provence all over the chicken..
Thinking ahead and looking to see what Veggies I, I always have lots of frozen veggies on hand David loves peas these had to go in the Pot Pie!! .. I had fresh leeks, onions, carrots,Turnip. frozen parsley from our garden last year!! had, I made a beautiful Chicken Dinner , for 3 adults as our son lives with us when he is not in camp!! I carved the chicken, there is a lot of Chicken, I then placed the Chicken Carcass in water with a little fresh time and bay leaves.. We ate Supper , there was a lot left . I diced and took off the bone what was left and planned to get up early and make a Chicken pot pie!! The Chicken Carcass simmered for a couple of hours, I let this cool.. Once Cool I put in to a container with the gravy I had made from the chicken . I made the Chicken pot Pie there was some of the filling left , i placed this in a container and put in the fridge with the stock from the carcass!! With this I put in to my soup pot, I diced 2 carrots, 1 onion, turnip, a few diced potatoes and some dried red lentils.. There was 1 chicken breast left I diced this and put in to the mix.. The smell from this soup was amazing, I added a little chicken bouillon , to the soup and brought it to the Boil, then simmered until I had to go to work..
I came in from work and David had a piece of Chicken pie and soup on the table for me. It was amazing the fresh flavours.. I can not wait to use my new oLangoustine Pans I got for Christmas. Cook a big Family Dinner and have all my family over!!!
You can do this with any chicken, or even a roast ground meat, try to plan a head.. I have a dish of soup in the freezer, the pot pie all went oh boy was it good!! for tomorrow I have taken out some Spaghetti Sauce I made, when I got my job at the Hospital!! Batch Cooking.. Love it
This has to be the toughest thing , not being able to see the kids, cooking and baking with them This past year has been tough on everyone, I think the Kids are feeling it a lot more than we think!! Hug your littles.. Oh my goodness.. Stay Safe and I love Y’all..
What am amazing weekend, the weather was beautiful, it is David’s Birthday Weekend. Plus we were both off this weekend.. Both David and I love to cook together!! We both love cooking from scratch. For Davids Birthday I made his fave meal Oriental Honeyed Pork!
Cooking from scratch, it does take a little planning ahead, cooking in a batch, in the long run saves money!! Scratch cooking is along lost art.. cooking from scratch means that we put homespun, nourishing meals on the table for our families, saving money and knowing what gone in to the food we feed our families.. I usually plan a few days ahead. With both David and I have started new jobs this is even more important to plan a head!! I highly recommend creating a loose meal plan every week!! Batch cooking you freeze meals , get them out in the morning to defrost.. I have a few fave recipes to batch cook, Spaghetti Sauce, which David made this weekend, Colin and Bailey wanted some so we dropped it off for them !! I batch make Butter Chicken, Soups, Stews.. I made an amazing Acorn Squash Soup today . We will have this tomorrow with Salad and a sandwich!! I make an amazing salad dressing
I call my cooking!! How I show my love, I love to cook , I cook with the heart, I feel what needs to go in to the food.. Learning how to cook from scratch can be a very easy process if you break it down. It is definitely a process. One, that for a lot of people, happens over time. Start slowly, don’t rush in to this..
For David and I 2015 , I was ill and we decided to change our diet, we watched a few Documentaries , We needed to get our gut health on track, we eat very little processed food and very rarely eat out. We have always loved to cook, changing the way we eat made cooking a challenge, we eat a plant based diet and meat is an ingredient not the main part of our meal. We do have a steak once in a while, yeaterday David Bbq’d some chicken breast. I cook a lot of different bean dishes, David likes to the these to work for lunches or snacks..
Practicing once a week or month prep helps you to be more committed as it is easier
Plan your meals
Use your leftovers
I have many different dries Peas and means
I keep Gravies for future curries
If you have a chicken, I boil the bones to get a stock and freeze for future use.
Flour and yeast I bake a lot of bread
The Tourtière: A French-Canadian Meat Pie Recipe!! I mixed up a batch about 12 months ago, enough for 4 Pies, I made the pastry in my FoodProcessor, or wazz we as Jamie Oliver calls it!! The Pizza was also home made and delicious!! The Stew is a veggie stew with a veggie stock and 2 different kinds of beans!! This is for David for his lunches at his new job!!
Here is a quick meal I love this Chicken Curry with Peas
1 small yellow onion
2 tablespoons Olive oil
salt
2 tsp crushed garlic
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 1/2 teaspoons curry powder
1 1/2 teaspoons garam masala
1 1/2 cups chicken stock
1 lb boneless chicken thighs cut in to cubes
1 cup frozen peas, thawed
1/2 cup full-fat plain Greek yogurt
Place a large straight-sided skillet over medium-high heat. While the pan heats up, finely chop the onion, about 1 heaping cup. olive oil to the pan and swirl to coat. Add the onion and a large pinch of salt and cook, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned, about 3 minutes. Meanwhile, add minced Garlic, tomato paste, onions along with the curry powder, garam masala and 1/4 cup water. Stir to combine and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Stir in the chicken stock and bring to a strong simmer. add chicken cubes , and stir into the sauce. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is just cooked through, about 10 minutes.
Reduce the heat to a low simmer and stir in the peas and 1/4 cup yogurt. Cook until the peas are just warmed through, about 1 minute.Serve with home made Naan bread quick and easy! https://rasamalaysia.com/naan/
Prep Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Ingredients
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 cup warm water
1/4 oz. (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon oil
some oil, for greasing the skillet
3 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions in a small bowl, add the sugar, warm water, and yeast together. Stir to combine well. The yeast should be activated when it becomes foamy, about 10 minutes. Transfer the flour to a flat surface and make a well in the middle. Add the yeast mixture, yoghurt, salt and oil, knead the dough until the surface becomes smooth and shiny, about 10 minutes. Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place (for example: beside the stovetop or warm oven). The dough should double in size, about 1 hour.Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll the dough to a 8” circle using a rolling spin. Heat up a skillet (cast-iron preferred) over high heat and lightly grease the surface with some oil to avoid the dough from sticking to the skillet. Place the dough on the skillet. When it puffs up and bubbles and burnt spots appear, flip it over and cook the other side. Repeat the same until all dough are done.Brush the naan with the melted butter, serve warm.
Spinach and Sweet potato Tortilla Found this on Good Food site not my pic , the recipe looks amazing I am going to ty this
STEP 1Put the spinach in a large colander and pour over a kettleful of boiling water. Drain well and, when cooled a little, squeeze dry, trying not to mush up the spinach too much.
STEP 2Heat 3 tbsp oil in a 25cm non-stick pan with a lid, then sweat the onions for 15 mins until really soft but not coloured. Add another 3 tbsp oil and add the potatoes and garlic. Mix in with the onions, season well, cover and cook over a gentle heat for another 15 mins or so until the potatoes are very tender. Stir occasionally to stop them catching.
STEP 3Whisk the eggs in a large bowl, tip in the cooked potato and onion, and mix together. Separate the spinach clumps, add to the mix and fold through, trying not to break up the potato too much.
STEP 4Add 2 tbsp more oil to the pan and pour in the sweet potato and egg mix. Cover and cook over a low-medium heat for 20 mins until the base and sides are golden brown and the centre has mostly set. Run a palette knife around the sides to stop it from sticking. 5 To turn the tortilla over, put a plate face down onto the pan, then flip it over. Slide the tortilla back into the pan and cook for a further 5-10 mins until just set and golden all over. (Don’t worry if it breaks up a little on the edges as you’re turning it – it will look perfect when it’s cooked through and set.) Continue cooking on the other side until just set and golden all over. Again use a palette knife to release the tortilla from the sides. Allow to rest for 5 mins, then tip onto a board before cutting into wedges.
Cooking from Scratch Def changes your tastebuds.. Do a little research first there is some great websites on Plant Based eating and recipes Eat to Live and not Live to eat!! Stay Safe Y’all Love and miss you all
Happy March 1st!!!! Went to see dr today I guess I have another 10 days off !! At least my finger is not in a splint anymore or as they call it a buddy wrap! So tough to work with and not get it wet!!!!
This is a stuffed Poblano pepper, Yummy I saw Bobby Flay cook this .. You can do it with what ever filling you like, this one is ground chicken and beans with an red enchilada sauce.. It was yummy!!
Gluten free Yorkshire , I thought Id try using Quinoa flour. for the Yorkshire pudding , really didn’t turn out to bad!! I made 2 huge ones and put our Lamb Dinner inside of the Yorkshire..
My Mom made the best Yorkshires..
Below is a Seafood Fettuccini , the taste was amazing, Davids Comment was you can make that again!!
David is working long days!
He is such an amazing person, I love him to the moon and back, even as we approach out Anniversary of many years!! 45 I believe!!
We are actually planning to renew our vows! Fingers crossed, next year!! I’d like a Vegas Elvis Theme renew of vows, David fancy’s Mexico, Know what even if we renew our vows in our back yard Id love that
.. Back to food!!
David is working long days , while I am off work I am making him some great Vegetarian options !! I love cooking Vegetarian it is a Challenge ! Here We have a Veggie Stew , with 2 different beans, Carrots, turnip, onions and potatoes with a veggie Stock and a little Worcestershire sauce !! Second dish is a Dahl, I put onions, carrots , red lentils and some spices and a little coconut cream and chilli pepper.. Last week , I made Texas Caviar and a Chickpea Greek Salad! David loves these for his snacks at work!
This next week Is my Niece Adele’s Birthday ! Happy Birthday Adele!! Wish we could be in the UK and Spend it with you Adele , we love and miss you so much!!
Then the 8th is Davids Birthday he is off this weekend, we will celebrate this on Sat, every Birthday I make Oriental Honey Pork..
Then on March the 15th is My Boy George’s 8th Birthday , he is the best dog..
It is scary how time goes by so fast!! One of my proudest moments was seeing David walk Kate Down the Isle, she was stunning and David wore Kilt and Dress Jacket,Then My Oldest Daughter Victoria and her 2 kids were also in the wedding party!! Just breathtaking and a very proud moment! The planning Kate did for that wedding was amazing.. David and I are very proud and Love our 3 kids very much!!
Now we have 3 of the most Amazing Grandkids, now being a Grandparent that is the best ever!!
What Children Can Receive from Their Relationships with Grandparents
A close relationship benefits the health and well-being of both grandparent and grandchild. For grandchildren, the biggest gift of this all-important bond is the endless supply of love, acceptance, patience and unwavering support that grandparents uniquely have to offer. In healthy relationships, grandkids can find in their grandparents a safe harbor—someone they trust and know is always on their side.
What Grandparents Receive from Healthy Relationships with Grandkids
Becoming a grandparent can be life changing—an adrenaline shot that restores your energy, optimism, youthfulness and sense of purpose. Recent studies also show that emotional closeness between grandparents and grandchildren can protect against depression, boost brain function and lead to a longer life.
My Mom would have been so proud, Kate actually had my moms wedding ring and my engagement ring tied to her bouquet, this was very special. In a sense my mom was there..
Something My mom used to say is never go to bed with out saying I love you, you never know what tomorrow brings.. This past few years has not been the easiest!! Now is the time family’s need each other, wether it be virtual or an actual hug, these times are tough.. It has affected everyone, in some way.. I am so lucky to have the job in food services at the Hospital! For me it has been the best .. David to has a new job and he is loving it..
Up and onward Live Laugh Love Then March 18th is My Moms Birthday!!
It is scary how time goes by so fast!! Something My mom used to say is never go to bed with out saying I love you, you never know what tomorrow brings..
This past few years has not been the easiest!! Up and onward Live Laugh Love
March 18th is My Moms Birthday!! Its been 30 yrs since I lost her , I still miss her, My best friend, When we emigrated to Canada I would call her once a month, Check in with her , we would write letters weekly! Oh boy If I could turn back time
My Mom taught me to cook and she always made it look easy, David my hubby is an amazing cook, All my 3 kids Cook, i Think Katie my youngest reminds me so much of my mom ..
If ever there was a time I need my mom just for a hug its now..
Well this blog was all over the map!! But Cooking is love Stay Safe Y’all and Hug some one close to you Hugs are healing and we all need Hugs!!
Tonight I am making a Seafood Fettuccini, Onions already chopped. David done them a while ago so they are in the freezer !! I am finding it difficult to cook using my left hand .. Lets give it ago
4 ounces uncooked fettuccine
1/4 pound uncooked medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/4 pound sea scallops, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 small shallot, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1/4 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup white wine & additional chicken broth
half-and-half cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 Roma tomato, diced
2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
Cook the fettuccine according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, saute shrimp and scallops in 1 tablespoon oil for 3-5 minutes or until shrimp turn pink and scallops are opaque. Remove and keep warm.
In the same skillet, saute shallot in remaining oil until tender. Add garlic; cook 1 minute longer. Stir in broth and wine. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 6-8 minutes or until most of the liquid has evaporated. Stir in cream; cook, uncovered, over medium heat for 5 minutes or until thickened.
Drain fettuccine; stir into cream sauce. Add shrimp, scallops and cheese; toss to coat. Sprinkle with tomato and parsley. I will get David to drain the pasta ..
Portuguese Seafood Stew, this is a recipe I have been planning to do for a few weeks, it will have to wait until y finger is healed .. I am going to do the one as Anthony Bourdain was one of my fave Chefs I would have loved to cook with hi!!
TRIBUTE TO BOURDAIN – PORTUGUESE SEAFOOD STEW
On The Table Ep. 1, Anthony Bordain and his close friend Eric Ripert cook this seafood stew, while Bourdin talks very openly about his life and work.Print Recipe I am adding Chorizo Sausage
2 small Yukon Gold or russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 10cm piecesor one medium/large
2 small sweet potatoes, peeled ands cut into 10cm pieces or one medium/large
250 g white fish fillets, cut into 15mm piecescod, snakehead, something quite firm
16 mussels, scrubbed and de-bearded or frozen mussels in the half-shell, thawed
1/4 cup parsley, finely diced
1/4 cup cilantro, finely diced
Fine sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Baguettes, for serving
INSTRUCTIONS
Heat oil a large, high-sided skillet over medium-high heat. I used a dutch oven.
Add onion, green and red peppers, and garlic, and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent, 8 to 10 minutes.
Add cumin, paprika, oregano, and pepper flakes, and cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Add octopus pieces and cook 2-3 minutes.
Pour wine into the pan and scrape the bottom of the pan using a wooden spoon to dislodge any browned bits.
Add the tomato paste and crushed tomatoes, bay leaves, and fish or vegetable stock;
Bring to a boil then reduce to a simmer.
Add the potato pieces and stir in. Cover and gently simmer until the octopus and potatoes are tender, about 45 minutes.
Add the white fish and stir in.
If using fresh mussels add on top of the stew. Cover and cook until mussels have opened, 10 to 15 minutes.
If using frozen mussels in the half shell, add them after the fish has been cooking for 5 minutes or so. They will need 5 to 10 minutes to heat through.
Remove half the mussels from their shells and discard the shells. Stir the de-shelled mussels into the stew. If they are a decent size NZ mussel, you might want to halve them before adding them back to the stew.
Stir in most of the parsley and cilantro, retaining some to sprinkle over the stew before serving.
Season with salt and pepper.
Serve with baguettes to soak up the sauce. Also great reheated the next day.
David and I love to Cook and in our Kitchen have a portrait painted by the very talented Russel Thomas, a Christmas gift a few yrs ago from our Son Ian.. So sad Anthony Bourdain took his life , gone way to soon Did you know that one of our trips was one inspired by Anthony Bourdain Show A disappearing NYC “Disappearing Manhattan” episode of No Reservations.
Katz’s Delicatessen,Deli | 205 E Houston St, New York, Katz’s “You only need to walk over to the counter, take a long lingering look at that heap of steaming pastrami, corned beef and brisket, take a deep breath, and you’ll remember again what it means to be alive, to be proud to be a New Yorker … Where Harry Met Sally Was Filmed here and we met the Mayor of Hoboken !!
Keens
Keens Steakhouse, Steaks and seafood | 72 W 36th St, New“You really can’t do it any better or more authentic than Keens, a place that goes right back to the old-school all-male world of beefsteak parties, political power built around beef, and bloody aprons and smoke-filled rooms. Pipes cover the Ceiling
”Russ & Daughters – Deli | 179 E Houston St, New York,
Russ & Daughters “It’s all about the lox, and about the original product: herring. Herring and cream sauce. It’s all about sweet and sour salty goodness. Who invented this combination. bagel, cream cheese, and lox We bought food and took it back to our Hotel Manganaro’s “Preserves that wonderful time of hope, boundless optimism, and completely unfashionable old-school red-sauce Italian-American Amazing We stayed 2 times at the London NYC , One time in the Atrium Suite OMG Amazing and we ate at the Gordon Ramsay Restaurant both times we stayed there, once with Anthony and Carolyn Harris , the waiter remembered David and I and we got a tour of the Chefs Kitchen with Anthony and Carolyn.. The Pics of the NYC and Atrium Suite aren’t mine they are from the London NYC web site an amazing place to stay.. One time we stayed at the Waldorf!! This time we went to NYC for St Paddy’s day We met Billy Connolly in a cigar shop he was so nice, we met George from The apprentice he was in Trump Tower !! Last time we went was to see Phil Collins in concert at the Rosemont Ballroom I Love NYC
What a week, Work at the Hospital s going great, then Thursday after I finished work at 2 pm, i came home put on the kettle showered and came down stairs massed my tea , was going ti sit down and have a cuppa!! I thought Ill take George out for a walk. Off we went he found a stick I threw it for him, he brought it back to me, put if at me feet I went to grab the stick to throw it, so did George, OUCH!!! I need up in emergency and for 8 stitches and a few weeks of work , The Tendon had a teat n it so I have 2 fingers taped together as I haven’t to bend it .. Good job I have an amazing husband ..
David Starts his new job next week, Long days , Healthy snacks I have made a Chickpea Greek Salad and some Black eyed peas soaking so I can make Texas Caviar!!! I have meals made in the freezer as when I have time I like to batch cook.. Scratch cooking.. I have an amazing Bean Chilli in the Freezer..
Maybe you’ve missed it on the news lately, but healthy beans have been reported to be super foods, not only for the gut but for overall physical and mental health. A healthy gut is one that digests, absorbs, and eliminates with ease and is free from illness. It’s important to eat a diet that feeds a healthy gut and beans are considered one of those foods and excellent for overall health.
Why Are Beans So Good for You?
Fiber is an essential part of a healthy diet. It is recommended that adults eat between 25 to 38 grams of dietary fiber per day. Are you eating enough fiber? Research shows that the majority of Americans are not consuming proper amounts of fiber.
That’s where healthy beans can help save the day! By incorporating beans into your diet, you can easily reach that goal of having enough daily fiber. Beans are rich in fiber:
Navy Beans – ½ cup – 10 grams of fiber
Kidney Beans – ½ cup – 8 grams of fiber
Black Beans – ½ cup – 8 grams of fiber
Lentils – ½ cup – 8 grams of fiber
Healthy Beans, Good Brain Food
Beans provide the brain with its preferred fuel: glucose. Brain functions such as thinking, memory, and learning are closely linked to glucose levels and how efficiently the brain uses the fuel source.
The brain accounts for around 2 percent of total body weight but it wants, and takes, roughly 20 percent of our daily calories. What does the brain crave? Glucose, primarily obtained from recently eaten glucose rich foods like beans.
It’s also important to know that your brain is really sensitive to falling glucose levels. So when your glucose level drops, the symptom is confused thinking.
How You Digest Beans
Beans are super high in protein, carbs, anti-oxidants and minerals. Beans digest slowly and is why your brain loves them. While digesting slowly they give your brain a consistent source of glucose. Beans can take 2 to 3 hours to digest while making your brain happy! There are may different foods to help your Gut and your health!!
Why beans?
Beans, lentils, and split peas are rich in fiber, resistant starch, and plant protein, and they are a low-glycemic carbohydrate source. The health benefits of these legumes sometimes get overlooked, but adding beans to your diet promotes weight loss, cardiovascular health, and insulin sensitivity. We try to keep processed foods out of our diet as much as we can, I take probiotics daily.. We watched a few documentaries on plant based eating. Plant pure nation.., Michale Pollan had a series called Cooked, Jamie Oliver to..
We made small changes and over this past year have slipped a little but are now heading in the Plant Based direction again. Eating a healthy diet, not buying pre packaged processed foods , gives you energy , maybe a little weight loss and def budget friendly also helping with your carbon foot print
Why Cooking from scratch is better? cooking food from scratch gives you the portion control, you are free to use good fats and less sugar and salt. You get to handpick the ingredients, so you know the quality before you eat. I cant with for the edible flowers and veggies we grew in our garden..
1. Saves money
Eating homemade foods is usually much cheaper than eating at a restaurant or buying processed foods from the market.
Plan several days of meals. We’ll be less likely be tempted to eat something else if we have a plan or something already made.
Make a grocery list and stick to it to avoid buying extra food. Shop from the perimeter of the store all fresh food is there !!
Save leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer. Once you get a stock of leftovers stored, you can reheat them at a later date when you don’t have time to cook.
2. Saves time
3. Healthier ingredients
4. Avoid food allergies and sensitivities
Many restaurants and fast food joints offer portions that are much larger than necessary.
6. Brings family together
Eating at home gives the entire family time to talk about their day. I cant wait to cook a big meal for friends and family!! This past year has taken a strain on everyone !!! Love and Miss you all
Happy Valentines Day to you all.. For David and I valentines day is every day!! I have always made a big deal of Valentines for my kids and always bought them Valentines Candies! I do this for the grand kids now.. This Valentines I have made a Heart Shaped Veggie Pizza for my Love Oh boy does it smell amazing
Live Laugh and Love, you just never know what tomorrow brings.. Whether its a 2 legged person or 4 legged fur baby love them!! No one is perfect we all make mistakes, life is short
God grant me the Serenity to accept the things I cannot change. Courage to change the things I can and Wisdom to know the difference.. This is the Serenity prayer and this has helped me through a really tough time!! Love Y’all to the moon and back
Another amazing meal, my version of a Ramen Bowl, once again I did it my way. I have been planning to do this for a couple of weeks, as I was off today it was the perfect day to do the..
Udon Noodles
Ramen Noodles
Won Tons
Shrimp
Boy Chow,
Celery
Spring Onions
Broccoli
Mushroom Broth
Pho broth
a little chicken and duck gravy!!
Fried egg on top
Yummmmmmmmmm
This was a total hit will do the again!! I also made a Texas Caviar for snacks, this will help with good Gut Biome!! one of Davids Favourites
Yesterday was my youngest girls birthday!! I so missed celebration it with her, one of her fave dinners for her birthday is a Roast Dinner in a Huge Yorkshire pudding
David and I are very proud Parens and Grandparents, She is a beautiful, kind, big hearted, smart and an amazing Momma and Wife.. Happy Birthday Love and miss celebrating this with you..
Tomorrow is friday Hmm I think Fish and Chips made the english way!! David and I are both off tomorrow, but have a busy day as Davids old 2003 echo is in the shop.. He just loves this old car.. Too funny you manually wind the windows down, push a button to lock..
I am getting ready for work, I got some pasties put of the freezer and made some fingerling potatoes and a veg for David and Ians supper tonight.. Stay safe , wash your hands and wear a mask Love y’all miss y’all sending hugs
Crazy week with orientation and training at the Hospital, I am loving it.. My feet are sore and I have blisters on my little toes, but feeling amazing.. I must admit it is great to get back out in to the work place!! It is a good job I cooked in batches!! Last weekend I made some rustic bread it is aJamie Oliver recipe .. I made twisty bread it is a twisted sandwich, I made some home made mushroom soup to go with it, it was amazing.. You can fill the twisty bread with your fave fillings, I did a Cheese and red pickled onion one, used my red pickles, and then a Ruben twist bread, Corned beef, Mustard, Sauerkraut and cheese. You make the bread it is 5 ingredients, yeast, a little sugar, flour salt and water, let it raise , then half the dough and roll out, then place your sandwich filling on the dough and roll like a swiss all and slice in to 1 1/2 ins pieces and place in a greased pie tin to raise again, brush with egg wash and bake .. Yummy Jamie Olivers show is Keep Cooking and Carry on . Some great tips on cooking during a lockdown.. My dream is to one day cook with Jamie Oliver.. I cant wait for the day I can cook a big family dinner and have My Kids and Grandkids all over .. All peeps, it is almost time for me to go to work at the Hospital in Food Services.. Im loving it.. Stay Safe Out these and wear your mask..
SoI finally made it a Beef Wellington, no recipe as such , but omg the levels of flavour in this dish! Mixed Mushroom, pate, onions and a little celery rosemary and garlic lots of black pepper a touch of brandy, served with Broccoli and Sour Cream mash, I may change my blogs name my hubby calls me the intuitive Chef For the most part I feel what needs to go in to the recipe..
I made Chicken parmigiana and a Marinara Sauce, OMG amazing levels of flavour also in this dish! I made for the first time a salsa verde with a kick or a punch!! Delish with a bean chilli.. So good for a little Healthy Gut Biome.
This next set of amazing bread, I got from watching a Jamie Oliver show . Jamie called it basic bread recipe, I call it swirly bread!! These 2 breads are a Cheese and Onion, and a Ruben ! The First time I made it was with lamb and Haggis. you can add any mis of sandwich fillings..
On Tuesday I have orientation at the Northern Lights Hospital, I am once again going to be working in Dietary, food services.. I worked in KGH for a few years and loved it. I made some amazing friends there.. I will never forget my first day, I met a life time friend Ken Maggs , meeting your Mom and Dad.. it was also his first day working in the Xray Dept.. Oh Ken how I miss those days on your boat. Loosing your keys was just one trip!! David and I often talk about the days! Miriam, Rosa, Marina, Vicky, jean, Marie, Davinda, Edwarda and Mariana ,I do apologise if I forgot anyone !! amazing ladies I worked with in Dietary! Dr Mackenzie and Family, Dr Kerswell and his family, Dr Mills, Dr Carstens and familyJulie Ip and many More !! I will keep you all posted on my adventures working in Food Services again !! Food is family memories or at least it make memories.. We had lots of Dinner parties, Kitimat was the start of our Love for hosting Dinner Parties. Oh my gosh I cant wait to do this again!! ..
Kate and Aaron have taken over the family Christmas Dinner , both Sides of the family gather at Katie and Aaron house !! Oh how we missed it, this year because of Covid.. it is all for the best and keeping everyone safe. I am looking forward to the hugs from everyone.. the struggle is real I am a hugger and missing these..
This week it is my 2 beautiful Daughters birthdays Victoria on Feb 3rd and Katie on Feb 10th, it seems like yesterday .. So proud of these 2 beautiful ladies . Proud parents and grandparents
There are two theories regarding the name of these biscuits. It has been suggested that the name “petticoat tail” 
Fiber is an essential part of a healthy diet. It is recommended that adults eat between 25 to 38 grams of dietary fiber per day. Are you eating enough fiber? Research shows that the majority of Americans are not consuming proper amounts of fiber.
Intuitive Chef 