Fresh Food Fresh Start

Hello fellow Foodies, Family & Friends

This blog is a little different, I am starting this off with a Thank You To the AHS, All Nurses , Home Care Nurses, Dr Aniki (my family Dr). Dr Buni ( Internist) & Dr Indar, who did my 2 surgeries!! One Nov last year & One May this year.. Thank you so much!! I HAVE MY LIFE BACK. !!

I have always loved to cook and always watched what I eaten for many years now have lean towards somewhat vegetarian for or at least Plant Based.. Could be something to do with the years I spent working in KGH Dietary!! Fun times great people!!

It seemed what ever I ate it hurt, I hurt all over……

2015 We watched a few Documentaries about food and processed foods.

one was Plant Pure and the other , tohttps://r.search.yahoo.com/_ylt=Awr47Kb3uhVfUBcA54ZXNyoA;_ylu=X3oDMTEya2Jva3AwBGNvbG8DZ3ExBHBvcwMxBHZ0aWQDQzAxNjRfMQRzZWMDc3I-/RV=2/RE=1595288440/RO=10/RU=https%3a%2f%2fwww.plantpurenation.com%2f/RK=2/RS=n42C6OMT0bSpJ3KTTX227mpW39M- Knives over Forks, Cooked was an amazing Documentary Michael Pollan’s new Netflix series explores the history of cooking!!! This really made us think about what we eat , how we cook it, fast foods, processed foods! yes they are quick, by all means once in a while is OK .

I was getting symptoms that scared me, I was beginning to think that this could be a cancer!! My yearly checkup with Dr Aniki early 2016, I knew wasn’t going to go well as this past year had been a tough one, results came back I was scheduled for a scope May 3rd 2016!! But as it happened I had to re schedule as that day I had an apt in Edmonton (Sinus Dr!! another amazing Dr ) and could not go, re scheduled for Sept

May 3rd 2016, there was a forrest fire, we woke up early set off to go to Edmonton wit and over night bag, it was 28 degrees hot .. Kate and Aaron were looking after George. We set off at 7 am bright sunny clear skies the Forrest fire seemed to be under control!! Within 2 hours being on highway 63, we wee getting txts from Katie, Ian and Victoria, the winds had changed the fire was heading for Fort McMurray, first it was , this was not good. At First voluntary Evacuations then came the big one Mandatory Evacuations for the city of Fort McMurray!! My heart was in my mouth, my kids, grandkids and dogs were in Mac!!..

Wikipedia

On May 1, 2016, a wildfire began southwest of Fort McMurray, Alberta, Canada. On May 3, it swept through the community, forcing the largest wildfire evacuation in Alberta’s history, with upwards of 88,000 people forced from their homes.^[12] Firefighters were assisted by personnel from both the Canadian Forces and Royal Canadian Mounted Police, as well as other Canadian provincial agencies, to fight the wildfire. Aid for evacuees was provided by various governments and via donations through the Canadian Red Cross and other local and national charitable organizations.

Sweeping through Fort McMurray, the wildfire destroyed approximately 2,400 homes and buildings. Another 2,000 residents in three communities were displaced after their homes were declared unsafe for reoccupation due to contamination. The fire continued to spread across northern Alberta and into Saskatchewan,^[14] consuming forested areas and impacting Athabasca oil sands operations. With an estimated damage cost of C$9.9 billion, it was the costliest disaster in Canadian history.

The fire spread across approximately 590,000 hectares (1,500,000 acres) before it was declared to be under control on July 5, 2016. It continued to smoulder, and was fully extinguished on August 2, 2017. It is suspected to have been caused by humans in a remote area 15 kilometres (9.3 mi) from Fort McMurray, but no official cause has been determined to date.

We spent the next 4 weeks on a friends Pig Farm in Camrose. Irvings Farm Fresh. They have amazing pork products.. Allan and Nicola Irving good friends of ours.. David worked on the farm, I was doing some of the cooking, putting to use what we had learned watching the documentaries. That was a tough month for me as I was not feeling well.. George our Springer Loved the farm, we had a lot of laughs. One when David fell off the pig barn after a torrential down pour and landed in the Piggggggg mud ( POOP)

We eat out once in a while, and try little to no processed foods, but for the Most part now we cook everything from scratch, I bake my own bread and buns weekly, Meat we use as an ingredient not the main part of the meal!! Gut health has become a huge part of out life, we eat a lot of beans, Legumes , Eating this way cuts down on your garbage , we put the bins out maybe every 3 weeks..

Gut Health is important!! Eat Lots of Vegetables, Legumes, Beans and Fruit , 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!! Your system gets used to the gassy food believe me .. This change in the way we eat was part of getting me well and getting David off the Gout Medication, Cholesterol meds and blood pressure meds! Working out became a regular this, our busy lives made exercising and eating right kinds difficult.. We made changes slowly!! , shopping became different , no pre packaged meals, buying a lot more fresh produce, none or little fast food, this would be a treat.. For me this was the start of me getting well. Cook fresh , from scratch!!

Photos below were this weeks Culinary treats, Home made Scotch Baps they are amazing, a fresh fruit salad I made to have at breakfast , a Soup made with Carrots, Onions, Cabbage Garlic and potatoes with a veg stock them I puree it .. Then a pic of my boy George..

Fast forward to Sept 2016, I went to see Dr Indar and he sent me for a scope, I had a problem with my colon, not to sure what it is as yet possible Diverticular, disease.. Then I saw Dr Buni, More scopes at one point was on Steroids for a few months!! Then after a couple more visits, I was referred to Dr Indar and 2 Surgeries later !! Life is good, fingers crossed Bricks4Kidz can start back up once school starts!!

I feel amazing get up early walk George do house work , of-course have an amazing play list on, starting to work out . I truly can’t remember last time I felt this well.

We will continue our journey with food and eating from scratch!! This time of the year, we have a few different types of leafy greens and herbs growing in our garden potatoes and tomatoes!! Lots of fresh tomato sauce and pasta sauces to freeze!! Eating this way cuts down on our household garbage, Less packaging, less pre packaged foods and less processed foods Your tastebuds change!!! For the better

Eat to Live don’t Live to Eat!!..

Me being told when this was first Diagnosed to find a hobby relax do yoga!!!! Hmmmmm I also started to crochet #Hugs4Cops Blankets for Cops & All First Responders , For Cops with PTSd or just need a hug ( #Hugs4CopsBlanket) We actually play a lot of Backgammon and a scrabble game I got when i was about 8 yrs old!!

Every stitch a hug, making a difference a stitch at ta time … MY Journey continues during this 2020 Covid 19 and World unrest!! Think Positive, be the best person you can be, always be up for a random act of kindness!! Live Laugh and Love, you never know what tomorrow brings..

Photos of David and I, Our kids and grand kids!! My life.. dogs Meg and Molly MY Mommy and Daughter Springers) and Penny my daughter and son in laws dog over the rainbow Bridge, Paw prints forever on our hearts. Now George and his sister Gracie , she is Aaron, Katie and Asher Dog and Coal Matthew, Bailey and Colins rescue dog.

These last 3 Pics are my challenge coins, I am truly honoured and humbled to have these !! Love y’all

Moussaka My Way

Today I made an amazing Moussaka.
1 lb ground chicken browned and add rosemary, black pepper and garlic with 1 bay leaf and a pinch of all spice
1 lg onion diced
1 green pepper diced
2 large tomatoes diced
1 tbl spoon garlic
rosemary pinch to taste
parsley pinch to taste
a little basil to taste
1 cup of red wine
a little allspice cook all veg and add spices and red wine
4 large potatoes boiled whole then sliced
1 large egg plant sliced thin sprinkle with salt and olive oil them bake for 20 mins oven 350 f
Sauce
1 cup of flour 1/2 cup butter make a roux, add 3 cups whole milk, garlic salt and pepper , add cheeseI added garlic herb cheese 1/2 cup and 1/2 cup crumbled feta, make sauce
in and oven proof dish place a layer of sliced potatoes them plate ground chicken mix on top.. layer egg plant and place the sauce on top with a sprinkle of feta cheese salty good ness bake in a 350 /365 oven for 35 mins then take out and let cool a wee while then ready to serve this is amazing

I watched Jamie Oliver make this dish once again I improvised and made a few wee changes def a family fave when you make it take a pic and let me see your creation .. Now what tomorrow Im not sure have a great Thursday evening .. Now Shower and Hot tub

Chicken soup quick and YUMMY

Chicken veg soup Yummy

With the Chicken stock from the Harissa Chicken, and 2 extra Chicken Breasts I made delicious, healthy Chicken soup. I cooked the chicken breast in butter, and fresh ground black pepper… In soup pot, I placed 1 onion diced, 1 large leek diced, 2 large carrots diced 3 large parsnips dices and cooked in olive oil until soft then I aded the chicken stock , 1 pkg of onion soup mix, garlic. 2 cups of egg noodles, salt and pepper ,Bring it to the boil them simmer for 30 mins , the Soup pot is 3/4 full so I have a lot of soup, I divide the soup in to containers for the freezer, this is a great lunch or supper for these cold winters nights.. My mom was amazing at making soups, I think i j=have inherited this from her…

Budget Friendly

For around the same price as a single can of soup that feeds one, you can cook up a big batch of tasty soup to feed the whole family for days! Soup is ideal for using Veg you have in your fridge I call this refrigerator soup carrots, cauliflower, squash, zucchini and leafy greens. A great way to re freeze for future meals Some times I just go to the store grab the veg for a specific soup

Add in dried beans, lentils or chickpeas that have soaked overnight and soon you will have a hearty, healthy homemade soup high in fibre, protein, vitamins, and minerals. Just be sure to cook the legumes or pulses for the right amount of time. Seasonal Veg One of the best things about making soup at home is that you can pick your own ingredients! Local, seasonal, fresh foods

There’s nothing more nourishing than a bowl of homemade chicken soup from a loved one when you’re in bed with a cold or recovering from a high-stress event such as giving birth, the passing of a loved one or even positive life events such as a wedding or milestone event. When you’re the caretaker and making that delicious healing soup for a friend or family member, it feels so good to be useful in this way, knowing that all your love and affection for this person is going into this soup to help them get better.

The tradition of preparing healing soup for the recovery of a sick patient goes back centuries. In his 12th century treatise, Egyptian Jewish physician and philosopher, Maimonides, writes about using chicken soup for upper respiratory tract symptoms.

There’s nothing more nourishing than a bowl of homemade chicken soup

I love saving different brother from a good old Ham bone brother Chicken broth or a fish stock it is always a great base for the soups and stews I always have Veg Bullion on hand

Bone Broth

Ingredients:

1 small chicken, beef, lamb, pork
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery, chopped
1 small onion, chopped
2 tbl spoon crushed garlic
3 sprigs of thyme or dry
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, great for water retention
1 bunch parsley, chopped
Filter water, enough to cover chicken and vegetables, what ever meat bones you have use them

Nutritious broth.

Bone broth soup is rich in nutrients. …
It may help to protect the joints. …
It may help fight osteoarthritis. …
It may help reduce inflammation and heal the gut. …
It may aid sleep. …
Helpful in recovery after surgery this is whey I have some Soups and Bone Broth in my freezer.. It will help to heal my gut.. ! week to go before surgery thinking positive and eating right, and walking George 2 times a day LiveLaugh and Love life is to short

Poultry mans Pie

I always try to think out of the box when cooking , today I have 1 lb ground chicken, what can I make Ta Daaaaa got it! I browned the ground chicken in a pot I placed light olive oil, 1 onion diced, 1 large Leek sliced and diced, 2 carrots dices 1/2 cup of frozen peas and cooked until soft , I then added the ground chicken a little chicken stock 2 tbl spns light sour cream, leave in pot to simmer ,, In another pot I diced 2 parsnips, 1/2 a small turnip diced, 2 large carrots sliced, and 5 medium potatoes diced , cook until soft then mash with a little butter salt and fresh ground black pepper . place Chicken mis in an oven proof dish layer the potato veg mash over the ground chicken , melt some butter and brush over the mash mix place in 165 f oven and bake for 30 to 45 mins until golden and crisp on top.. Once cooked I will add another pic

Ancient grains , they are Healthy and Nutritious

I cook with rice of various kinds also , millet Pearl barley Quinoa, Buckwheat, are ones I have cooked with and really enjoy heres a lis of a few

Amaranth
Barley
Buckwheat
Kamut
Millet
Quinoa
Spelt
Teff

Ancient grains are grains that have been planted and harvested for thousands of years. Some ancient grains are not grains, but actually grasses or seeds.

Although millet is most often associated as the main ingredient in bird seed, it is not just “for the birds.” Creamy like mashed potatoes or fluffy like rice, millet is a delicious grain that can accompany many types of food. As with most grains, millet is available in markets throughout the year. today I am going to make the Nordic Bowl a recipe I found on line a few days ago I am going to use Millet .. all . Millet is also gluten free and has amazing benefits to your health

Peppers with a Millet turmeric filling

Ancient Grain Banana Bread I came across this recipe so i will try this as I love Banana bread

This ancient grain banana bread is one of those recipes that doesn’t compromise on flavor in spite of it having ancient grains. And, you cannot tell it is gluten free!

Ingredients
• ¾ cup quinoa flour
• ½ cup oat flour
• ¼ cup almond flour
• ¼ cup millet flour
• ¼ cup sorghum flour
• ¼ cup amaranth flour
• 2 tablespoons flax meal
• 2 tablespoons tapioca starch
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 cup oil
• 1/2 cup raw sugar
• 2 cups mashed overripe bananas
• 1/2 to 2/3 cup chocolate chips (optional)
• 1/2 to 2/3 cup chopped walnuts

Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease 1 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. Since I didn’t have quinoa and oat flours on hand, took ½ cup quinoa and 1/3 cup oats and made flour.
3. In a large bowl, combine all flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, cream together oil, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and raw sugar. Stir in mashed bananas until well blended. Stir banana mixture into flour mixture; stir just to moisten.
4. Stir in nuts and chocolate chips into batter and pour batter into prepared loaf pan.
5. Bake in preheated oven for 60 to 65 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into center of the loaf comes out clean. Let bread cool in pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack.

There are few simple secrets to making the perfect loaf of ancient grain banana bread.
1. You have to mash the bananas by a hand tool. Do not use any machines. A fork or a potato masher like I’m using will do the trick.
2. The amount of mashed bananas should be just a little less than the combined flour.
3. The combined flour plus flax meal plus tapioca starch should be 2 ½ cups. If you don’t have any one of the flours then use more of the other till you get 2 ½ cups.
4. Do not add any other liquid like milk etc. Just add oil that’s it. I cant wait to try this recipe ,

Planning a head , freezer meals All plant based .. My way

Planning a head Meals

Yesterday and today I have cooked meals for Hubby and my son when I’m in Hospital , I know David can cook but he works long shifts, If I can make it easier for him i will So I made a Bean Stew with white kidney beans and black beans , I put up a family sized portion and 2 lunch sized for David . I then made a double batch of red pepper Alfredo oh my it is delish!! I have also made Cheese, potato and Onion Pasty’s . Then a Bean Chilli that is rich and thick you don’t even miss the meat .. Now I have to think about supper tonight !!

Pergogies by request from David last night, these are amazing and in a mushroom sauce

Ingredients

2 tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 tbsp olive oil
300g / 10 oz mushrooms , sliced
Pinch of salt and pepper
2 tsp minced garlic ,
1/4 cup (65 ml) white wine or Anise
1/2 cup (125 ml) chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup (250 ml) sour cream
1/2 cup parmesan ,finely grated
2 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/4 – 1/2 tsp dried)

Mushroom soup a quick and tasty Soup and healthy

I love to make soups and this one is truly amazing . I put 3 different Mushrooms in to this I got Dried Porcini mushrooms, Cremini Mushrooms, and button mushrooms the Porchini mushrooms I soaked in a cup of boiling water for 5 mins , I some times use Oyster and Portobello mushrooms.. I started my base 1 onion diced, 1 stalk of celery dices slice mushrooms place 2 tbl spns light olive oil in open with garlic add onions and celery sweat for about 5 mins then add sliced mushrooms and the Porcini mushroom along with the water the Porcini was soaking in , cook for about 10 mins until mushrooms are soft , then I add 3 cups of veg stock, then I get my hand blender and blend all together then once done add salt and fresh ground black pepper, and 1/2 cup light sour cream Its your choice you can add reg sour cream . This is quite a hearty soup i serve with a little truffle oil on top and a fresh crust baguette and a side salad

Mushrooms are edible fungus that can provide several important nutrients. The many kinds of mushroom have varying compositions and nutritional profiles.

From puffballs to truffles, mushrooms can range from everyday fare to a costly delicacy. People can buy them fresh, canned, or dried. Health Benefits

Mushrooms contain protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These can have various health benefits.

For example, antioxidants are chemicals that help the body eliminate free radicals.

Free radicals are toxic byproducts of metabolism and other bodily processes. They can accumulate in the body, and if too many collect, oxidative stress can result. This can harm the body’s cells and may lead to various health conditions.

Among the antioxidant agents in mushrooms are:

selenium
vitamin C
choline

This is a 30 possible 40 min soup and one of Davids fave soups .. I am taking some over for Kate and Aaron..

Stuffed peppers,

Left over rice hmmm I think I will do stuffed pepper, quick and delish You can add what ever you like to the rice, I added 1 can of light tuna, garlic, onion diced, celery diced a hot pepper diced ( Don’t rub your eyes after you have handled hot pepper.. Salt fresh ground black pepper a sprinkle of Soy Sauce, and a little smoked paprika, once rice is done place in the peppers , I sometimes ad feta cheese, i didn’t this time .. I caked in a 350 oven for about 25 mins , i served with a home made soup, yup today a Red Bell pepper soup amazing , tasty and so healthy , thank you Sobeys for the great produce !! This is a flavourful meal.. Cooking most of our food from scratch becomes a habbit,

I also made 2 Cottage pies with ground chicken haricot beans and black beans, onions , celery , 2 large tomatoes added veg stock , once cooked placed in oven proof dish, in another pot I diced 1/2 a medium turnip and 3 large carrots sliced and 8 medium potatoes, cooked until soft and them mashed with butter and a little sour cream , placed on top of the meat and bean mix .. with the stock left over I made a very tasty gravy!! I served this with a fresh herb baguette oh my the flavours . I cooked in a 360 oven for about 40 mins until crispy and golden .. Eating #Plantbased and making most of our food from scratch is amazing.. I am heading ti to this surgery feeling well and very positive , by eating this way has postponed this surgery .. Love y’all have a great Sat Night

Bell Peppers

This morning I took George out for his morning walk , and brrr it was cold , I came home and looked in my fridge I have lots of

Bell Peppers, hmm I think I will make a Red Pepper Soup, I also added a little Jalapeño in to the mix My soups eat I just add ingredients , i don’t really have a recipe!! Doing this blog has made me write my recipes down ! well for the most part

3 large red peppers diced,
1 every stalk diced
1 small onion diced
1/2 Jalapeño pepper seeds removed
1 tbl spn diced Garlic
Fresh ground black pepper and salt a sprinkle of wakings Bell Pepper spice
4 cups veg stock
1/4 cup plain Sought or Light Sour Cream
tbl spn light olive oil
In a soup pot place all diced veggies . sauté until cooked 7 mins add veg stock bring to boil then I get my hand blender of you can use a food processor . blend . I like to leave a few chunks, add soup cream salt and pepper simmer for 10 mins. Ready to eat a 30 min soup, I will have with some crust home made bread and a salad.. #plantbased Thank you Western Family ( Save on Foods) For the Fresh amazing Produce and friendly staff

Health benefits of Bel Peppers !! Some info I came across on line ,

Bell peppers are often one of the key pillars to creating a colourful and aesthetically pleasing dish. The vibrant reds, oranges, yellows, and greens found in bell peppers add a spark of life to dishes that utilize them. But bell peppers are also dense with healthy nutrients the body needs to function properly and fight off chronic diseases and afflictions. When individuals consider what fruits and vegetables to include in their diet, bell peppers should be high on the list. Why? Get to know the details about the delicious and amazing health benefits associated with the nutrient capacity of bell peppers now. Another reason to eat Bell Peppers

Left over Chicken

So today is left overs , with the chicken left I think I will make a curry with the stock , also with lots of veg, for soup or gravies .. I really don’t think my curries are the same twice in a row, Today is my Birthday and I will be delivering my #Hugs4Cops blankets to 4 RCMP and 1 to a Local Lady Firefighter that one maybe tomorrow! I also have After School class to teach .. I don’t understand why some people are so mean and cruel to others and their pets.. I try to live my life as a long time friend Bob Mills once said treat others as you would like to be treat , this is how I try to live..

So Left Overs the chicken was so good there was 1 Chicken breast left , So I diced a leek, 1/2 onion diced a carrot and 1 cup left over rice and some of the stock from coking the chicken, I made an amazing chicken and Leek Soup . can have with some of the Bread I made yesterday a hearty lunch and budget friendly and good for you #Plant based #CookfromScratch

I delivered my blankets to day , I must go to Walmart for more wool, I have to say just me crocheting these blankets is getting tough, i have a sore arm , I will have to get it checked out .. BTW I tasted the soup it is amazing .. Once again a budget friendly lunch, health and not fast food.. LOL it was fast food it took me 30 mins ..

Cheese Potato and Onion Pie

Shift work Ugh I have to think a couple of days ahead .. These , potato and onion pie with a Salad today I think! It is great hot or cold, I made the pie yesterday after huge left , so here ya go , this is a fave by all! Its great for lunches and picnics. Basically boil your potatoes and onions the add what ever cheeses you like I like an aged cheddar and asiago also a dollop of Keens hot mustard it brings out the taste of cheese , bake 375 for about 30 mins or until golden brown I usually use and egg wash to seal and put on the top of the pie I Love to serve this with a nice crisp salad! With Some Kimchi or Olive Oil and balsamic #Plant based it amazing, cooking from scratch, yup some days I think oh boy i should just buy this, bur after the dish is made I think wow this is amazing, plus eco friendly not a lot of garbage , I have a pie there using Swiss Chard as a veg oh my love this vegetable.. George has to get in on the pic.. Miss B relaxing

Thanksgiving

Yesterday we celebrated our Thanksgiving Katie Aaron and Asher , Ian Seggie Deb and Rob Belanger and David and I .. We had roast beef. and Yorkshire puddings ! The Beef I marinated for 2 days I rubbed the roast in garlic and Dijon Mustard 2 table spn flour add few ground pepper an1 pkg of Onion Soup Mix and 1 bullion stock roll the roast in the flour mix .. I placed in the amazing Tupperware marinating dish!

Appetisers were Debbie’s amazing Surprise Dip, I did the Cornucopia with my dip and bacon wrapped pickles and sweet potato Chips all home made !! I made Acorn Squash soup and Pumpkin Bread it was amazing and complimented each other . Then to the main course Roast beef, Yorkshire Puddings, the roasts trivet Carrots, Turnip and a little Sweet Potato, Brussels roast potatoes and a creamy garlic Mash Potatoes were from our garden.. Desert a Sherry Trifle and pumpkin pie a feast for sure What made it special was we spent it with family and it was Ashers first Thanksgiving

Birthday supper & being Eco Friendly

My sons birthday It has always been a rule in our family. If it’s your birthday. You get to pick where and what you want to eat. Ian wants English fish and chips. Moms way. I have made a slaw. With a buttermilk dressing. I love Fish n Chips ohh add a curry sauce like back in the UK it is truly amazing

The Slaw I make, is a creation Cabbage green and red red peppers , onion, apple , Carrots, Buttermilk a little mayo, garlic dill and lemon spice , it is pretty amazing .. David loves it.. Sunday we will be having our Thanksgiving dinner and it will be Ashers first thanks giving , so i will be taking lots of photos, both of our dinner and family.. We aren’t having turkey this Thanksgiving we will be having beef and Yorkshires Yummy !! We have a lot to be Thankful for an amazing family, grandkids!!

David and I were just chatting about how little garbage we have on a weekly basis as the food I cook is all from scratch! We out the recycle garbage out once a month and the household garbage every 3 weeks.. I guess we are eco friendly. I found this on line and found it very interesting

10 Tips for Eco-friendly Cooking

Going green is rapidly becoming the norm, and the kitchen is a great place to start making environmentally friendly changes to your lifestyle. From the food you buy to the way it’s cooked and stored, you can save energy, reduce your carbon footprint and keep an eye on your budget in many different ways.

Eco-friendly cooking not only benefits the environment; it’s healthier for you and your family, too. Choosing organic vegetables keeps chemicals out of your body, as well the air, soil and rivers.

Many eco-friendly habits are also budget friendly. And these days, who isn’t watching every penny? Finding ways to cook more efficiently — like using the right appliance for the job — can help you reduce monthly energy costs. And you can cut your total supermarket bill by reusing products like aluminum foil and glass containers, buying and cooking food in larger quantities and making the most of leftovers.

Read on to discover our top 10 eco-friendly cooking tip

Eco-friendly cooking not only benefits the environment; it’s healthier for you and your family, too. Choosing organic vegetables keeps chemicals out of your body, as well the air, soil and rivers.

I find we do spend a-lot less on food

Shop with a reusable bag. Bring a recycled or reusable shopping bag with you to the grocery store every time you shop, so that you don’t waste plastic or paper grocery bags. If you forget your bag, ask the clerk to use as few bags as possible, and skip bags for larger items like milk jugs — just carry them by hand or in your personal shopping cart.
Reduce packaging waste. Choose grocery items that use less packaging, and buy in bulk when possible. Look for items that are packaged in products that can be reused or recycled, such as egg cartons made of environmentally-friendly paper, not foam.

I find we do spend a-lot less on food , Preparing meals in a more environmentally friendly way isn’t hard. It just means making a few adjustments in the way you shop for, cook, and serve food — quickly become second nature to you, and will help preserve nature itself for everyone. It becomes a habit and I find myself thinking planning meals a few weeks ahead . Even my Dr was pleased with me yesterday, I m heading for a pretty big surgery, because we changed out eating habits it has helped my condition!! Must run as we have an after school class .. Chat later

Soup is good food. Mulligatawny

A beautiful fall day here in FortMcMurray. David loves soup. A few days ago he mentioned. Mulligatawny soup. Hmm. I have never made this before so here goes. I guess the proof in in the soup. As usual I make little changes. I made a double batch. this soup is full of ofdifferent flavour levels Oh my gosh a must to try

!/2 cup diced onion
2 carrots diced
2 stalks celery chopped
1/4 cup butter
3 teaspoon curry powder
2 tbl spn flour
1 tsp Cumin
1 small apple cored and chopped
1/4 cup millet or rice
salt to taste
2 tsp chopped garlic
fresh ground black pepper
1 pinch of cream
1/2 cup plain Yogur
7 cups chicken stock

Saute onions, celery, carrot, and butter in a large soup pot. curry, cumin salt pepper and garlic, flour and cook 5 more minutes. Add chicken stock, mix well, and bring to a boil. Simmer about 1/2 hour.
Add apple, millet, chicken, salt, pepper, and thyme. Simmer 15-20 minutes, or until rice is done.
Serve with a dollop of yougurt It smells and tasted amazing

Spices and why they are good for your health

Turmeric, also known as the golden spice, is a tall plant that grows in Asia and Central America.

It gives curry its yellow color and has been used in traditional Indian medicine for thousands of years to treat various health conditions.

Studies support its use and show that it can benefit your health.

But coupling turmeric with black pepper may enhance its effects.

This article reviews the potential health benefits of combining turmeric and black pepper.

Reduces Inflammation

Curry powder is a medicinal superfood, it is packed with healthy spices. Turmeric is the spice that gives curry its yellow characteristics. Studies show that turmeric’s active compound, curcumin blocks several inflammatory chemicals reducing inflammation throughout the body.

Aids Digestion

The combination of spices in curry powder can supply you with potent antioxidants. This mixture of spices can help improve your digestive system and improve the health of your gut. Adding curry powder to your diet will promote efficient food digestion and will increase the number of good bacteria in your bowels. By keeping your levels of good bacteria high you will help your body eliminate waste, and prevent germs from causing diarrhea and gas.

Blood Sugar Control

Turmeric is a very healthy ingredient and is one of the main spices in curry powder.

These 2 cookery books my mom gave to me when I got married and moved on to our own home, I always go back to these Every year my Christmas cake was out of these , until I saw Paul Holly Wood make a Christmas cake so for the last 2 yrs I have made Paul Hollywood’s cake

Up an attem

Early start today just got a call from the Hospital I have to go for blood work, ugh George and I hit the trains fairly early, its a beautiful fall day !! Today I think we will have the Veggie Chilli I made and froze a few days ago, I really miss when I don’t have to cook,

These pics are from 2014 George was just 1 year old and Colin and Bailey so young .. Seriously where does the time go !! Im busy this morning putting lessons together for Bricks4Kidz !!

my 30 min soup fast food made from scratch!!

Today’s plant based cooking Mush room soup. Shitake,Cremmini,White & Oyster Mushrooms with a veg stock. Texas Caviar for snacks making a herb Bread
A little plant based comfort food. This soup is very decedent and I serve with a dollop of Sour Cream and some white truffle oil !! Cold nights are coming so time to make my 30 min soups, you can freeze them and just defrost after a busy day

Carrots, turnip, celery,leeks and in another pot truffle chicken bones boiling tomorrow soup. Mmmmm

Plant based Diet mmmm

Plant based diet is amazing Started off the day with a spinach , banana, flax smoothie! Made a Veg , bean stew , a Veg Bean chili for through the week . We feel so energised with this and weight is dropping off, plus we don’t feel as though we miss out on anything Love it try it .. Start f a busy week Here with my business Bricks4Kidz, After Schools in 4 Schools and just sent out emails to meet with other schools , we are booking in to April next year for the in School classes.

Eating right, getting exercise and lot of sleep is important for mental and physical well being We start of the day with a walk in the trails it is just so beautiful out there, I wore gloves today as there was a wee nip in the air, as yet no snow, I hear Calgary go snow!! I am going to head to Walmart to buy some yarn and start a #Hugs4Cops Blanket.. I am also going over my lesson plans for the Simple Machines ..

Living on a Budget & eating well

Butter Chicken About a month or so ago Save On Foods ad the large box of chicken breast on for $19.50 reg $39.00 I got a deal, why not.. I used 3 chicken breast for the Butter Chicken, say $10 a can of tomatoes $0.97 Walmart 1 1/2 onions ! Bag at walmart $1.87) say $0.50 1 stick butter to cook onions and chicken $1 . 2 table spns SKYR $0.50 , 1 jalapeño $0.50 , a little sugar spices $15.34 I did a double batch with these ingredients it will do 6 adults .. Ill make rice Id say all for under $20

Spaghetti sauce again I made a double batch this will feed 8 adults! 2 cans of tomatoes @ $0.97 x 2 1 can Tomato paste $0.67 Ground pork 1 1b on sale $5.99 1 onion $0.50 , oregano from my garden, 1 tbl spoon garlic $0.25 a little salt Pkg spaghetti $2.00 $11.35 Not to bad hey I will make a salad from produce out of the garden , plus I have Naan Bread In the freezer I made last time I made butter chicken,

3 Bean Chilli

Again a double batch will feed approx 8 adults 1 can tomato paste $0.67 1 Jalapeño $0.50 Chilli Spices $1.98 1 Onion $0.50 1 can dark kidney beans $0.87 2 cups dried black beans soaked and cooked in the pressure cooker For $900 gram bag $2.57 I used 1/2 = $1.25 Navy Beans $2.57 for 900 grams again half a bag $2.57 = $1.25 1 tall spoon garlic $0.50 = $7.52 Add rice under $10 eating well feeding approx 8 adults What a great morning I will make a salad from produce out of the garden .. I am loving this Blog Today we had a Beatles playlist on and I was cooking up a storm

When we eat meat it is an ingredient not the biggest part of your meal..

Chicken Pot Pie

Well I was going to make Chicken soup as I boiled the chicken carcas last night , but I also watched Jamie over 30 min meals .. He made a chicken pie. Here is my version of it , Jamie used Mushrooms, Not I..

2 chicken breasts, left over from chicken , stock from boiled chicken bones , I add 1 small leek, 2 stalks of celery onions and carrots left from trivet, 1 small pepper (orange one ) add chicken stock, salt ,pepper, garlic a little flour to thicken the pie filling and 2 tbl spns light sour cream, Jamie uses fresh cream!! place in pie dish .. I bought the puff pastry as it is time consuming to make, roll it out so as bigger than your dish then roughly fold sides in , making it look really rough and ready, puff pastry is very forgiving,, I added a little decor on top , funny so did Jamie Oliver, I got a few giggle at Jamie , Most of the time I cut the pastry making it tidy but mot of the time put a rose and leafs as decor.. Also a salad from my garden!! We had a side of my home made baked beans they are delish!!

We decided to change our Diets about 3 rs ago whenI got sick and I was scared I thought I had cancer, It was just before evacuation the Fort MCMurray Fire, So lots of delays with Drs appointments and tests!! that was a crazy year, My Dr said Ann you have to find a way to relax, so he said how about Yoga, i did this a little,I felt like a human pretzel.. Still do a little yoga! .. I then found a bag with wool and Crochet hooks from quite a few yrs ago.. So I made the grand Kids (Colin and Bailey only had 2 at the time ) I crochet blankets for them. Bailey said Oh Gram this is like a big warm hug!! So Rewind a few yrs back 2013 I think it was?? EPS Police Dog got Killed Quanto!!, My heart ached, I read the handlers story, I am not going to lie I cried and hugged my dogs.. I knew I had to do something, in my small way!!

Kate and I did a Scrap Book Collage for the police dog handler and on it was a msg from the dog to the handler and a msg from the handler to the dog, Pics of the dog and his handler,I had help from an amazing EPS officer ty Sir.. I presented this to one of the EPS Dog handlers, it was quite an emotional moment. Ohh my, for some reason My heart went back to that!! I got to thinking there is a lot of hatred in this world towards Police, how can I help!! Light went on .. Well Bailey said my blanket was a Big Warm HUG!! I Have it I will crochet #Hugs4Cops Blankets every stitch a hug from me telling them I care, we care and we appreciate, respect their work.. I have had requests for from friends and family of police officers requesting a blanket for someone with PTSD, or I follow them on social media, amazing people . I some times customise to their police colours, sometimes colours attract me.. I have got a lot better at crocheting it is an on going learning experience.. I don’t do this for recognition, I do this because I care and there is to much hate towards police in this world.. I have received 3 Challenge coins , i was resented to be By an amazing officer and gentleman From @EPS AFPAElliott , the other by Chief Mike Serr Abbotsford Police , the 3rd one was from Kitimat RCMP from an amazing officer Thank you all I love y’all !! I have had a couple of radio interviews and one by the Gazette the RCMP Magazine, I am truly humbled .. On with my crusade I guess after Nov 27th I will have a lot of recovery time after surgery, so Im thinking more #Hugs4Cops Blankets Every Stitch a Hug!! More to follow I have a Bricks 4 Kidz Class

Beans, Beans The good food amazing for good gut bacteria

Happy Monday to all my followers, near and far Love y’all Lets look after ourselves Mentally and physically, I know in nov Im heading for a big surgery, I’m thinking positive Chron’s/Colitis is no fun, this is one reason why we decided go to a plant based diet , meat is a ingredient hot the huge part of the meal. Tomorrow a little about the loves of my life my Grand kids and family I love to the Moon and back then at some point a little about My #Hugs4Cops Blankets i Crochet and my Challenge Coins I have 3 of them Live Laugh and Love

Fun facts on black beans

Here are some key points about black beans. More detail and supporting information is in the main article.

Because of their fiber content, black beans help to prevent constipation and promote regularity for a healthy digestive tract. They also provide fuel for the healthy bacteria in the colon.

I also used my pressure cooker on the Instant to cook navy beans and made baked beans they are delict with a smoky taste.. When I cook the black bean burgers I will add a pic on here .. I have then with a little salsa and guacamole

Black Bean Burgers again a recipe is an idea one way
16 tbl spoons cooked or 1 16 oz can of black beans mine were dried beans black beans place them on a cookie sheet place them in a 350 oven for 15 lions to dry so the soggy or mushy
in a bowl add beans mash with a fork,
1/2 red pepper diced
1/2 small onion diced
1/2 cup bread crumbs
1 egg
hot sauce your choice
lea and perrins sauce (Worcestershire )
garlic
salt and fresh ground black pepper

Mix with spoon the form in to bean patty’s I freeze mine until needed Remainder of black beans I cooked may go in to a Veg Chilli, one way I love black beans in place 1 cup per person in to microwave or pan to heat up add about 1 tbl spn malt vinegar black pepper add hot sauce to if you like enjoy ! Yummy a great snack on bonfire night Nov 5th BTW My Birthday is Nov 4th I always got Fireworks for my Birthday Hmm

Baked Beans

Place 2 cups dried navy beans in pressure cooker or soak overnight for about 10 hrs
2 cups navy beans
Small can plum tomatoes oureed
garlic to taste I used 1 tbl spn
2 tbl spns nutritional yeast
hot sauce
smoked paprika about 1 tbl spn to taste
give a stir and VIOLA you have baked beans , full of smoky goodness for these chilly days