Oct
31
Dog Food Recipes - Organic Healthy Dog Food Can Decrease The Risk Of Disease And Lengthen Lifespan
Filed Under Pets | Leave a Comment
What kind of food are you feeding to your dog? Do you remember the olden days when we fed our dogs table scraps? Nowadays most people believe it is a bad thing to feed your dog food from the table. Many now believe that this idea was originally encouraged by the makers of commercial dog food, as a way to sell more of their canned and dried pet food.
Lately, especially after the pet food scare of early 2008, when hundreds of cats and dogs died after eating pet food tainted with poison, more and more people have returned to feeding their dogs more foods eaten by humans.
If your dog has special dietary needs, such as being diabetic or obese, the commercial dog foods simply do not offer good choices that are healthy and nutritious and meet the needs of your dog. They tend to be filled with ingredients that are not healthy at all, and also have many preservatives to extend their shelf life. We do not know for sure where the ingredients have come from because the government does not regulate packaged and canned pet food as it does food for human consumption. This alone is a powerful reason to stay away from commercial dog food.
I have been feeding my dogs homemade food for four months now. My dachshund is diabetic, so I was searching for a way to give him a diet higher in fiber and protein. I have now come to the conclusion that it is best to prepare his food myself. I also have three other dogs, a Maltese and two Yorkshire terriers, and they were beginning to put on weight and had become very hyperactive. After eating my homemade food for the past few months their behavior has changed, their weight has stabilized, and my dachshund has not had to have an increase in his daily insulin dosage. I am also saving money at the same time.
I prepare chicken by boiling or baking it, and then combine yams or sweet potatoes. These vegetables have a low glycemic index and are particularly good for diabetes. I also prepare lentil soup each week, and add this to the food as well. Legumes, like lentils and other dried beans, are high in plant protein. Finally, I prepare long grain brown rice, and my homemade food is complete. I only do this once a week, so it is not like I have to prepare my dog food every day.
I encourage you to learn more about preparing healthy and nutritious food for your dog, to reduce the risk of disease and help to extend their lifespan.
By: Connie Ragen Green
About the Author:
Lately, especially after the pet food scare of early 2008, when hundreds of cats and dogs died after eating pet food tainted with poison, more and more people have returned to feeding their dogs more foods eaten by humans.
If your dog has special dietary needs, such as being diabetic or obese, the commercial dog foods simply do not offer good choices that are healthy and nutritious and meet the needs of your dog. They tend to be filled with ingredients that are not healthy at all, and also have many preservatives to extend their shelf life. We do not know for sure where the ingredients have come from because the government does not regulate packaged and canned pet food as it does food for human consumption. This alone is a powerful reason to stay away from commercial dog food.
I have been feeding my dogs homemade food for four months now. My dachshund is diabetic, so I was searching for a way to give him a diet higher in fiber and protein. I have now come to the conclusion that it is best to prepare his food myself. I also have three other dogs, a Maltese and two Yorkshire terriers, and they were beginning to put on weight and had become very hyperactive. After eating my homemade food for the past few months their behavior has changed, their weight has stabilized, and my dachshund has not had to have an increase in his daily insulin dosage. I am also saving money at the same time.
I prepare chicken by boiling or baking it, and then combine yams or sweet potatoes. These vegetables have a low glycemic index and are particularly good for diabetes. I also prepare lentil soup each week, and add this to the food as well. Legumes, like lentils and other dried beans, are high in plant protein. Finally, I prepare long grain brown rice, and my homemade food is complete. I only do this once a week, so it is not like I have to prepare my dog food every day.
I encourage you to learn more about preparing healthy and nutritious food for your dog, to reduce the risk of disease and help to extend their lifespan.
By: Connie Ragen Green
About the Author:
Connie Ragen Green invites you to learn more by visiting Healthy Dog Food Recipes to find out about preparing healthy and nutritious dog food recipes easily and inexpensively.
Oct
28
The Coffee Bean Story
Filed Under Food And Beverage | Leave a Comment
This is the story of how the humble coffee becomes a world celebrity. It’s not about the Labrador named Coffee Beans attached to the Sheriff’s Department sniffing drugs and bombs. It’s about “the” coffee beans we are familiar with. It’s about the fragrant aroma that stimulates our senses in the morning. The tingling sensation we get when we take the first sip in the morning. How we manage to get an extra boost of energy whenever we feel tired and sleepy. Let us take some time to ponder the processes the coffee beans have to go through before it can be marketed.
Processing The Coffee Beans
After the coffee berries have been harvested, it needs to undergo a process where the flesh of the coffee berries is removed. The coffee berries are placed in special machines separating the flesh from the seed. This coffee seed is commonly called “coffee beans”. The coffee beans will now undergo a fermentation process for a period of time. This process is done in order to remove the slimy mucilage coating the coffee beans.
After the coffee beans have undergone the mandatory fermentation, they are thoroughly flushed with clean water. This process is to remove the foul smelling residue due to the fermentation process and the waste water is a main cause of pollutant.
The coffee beans are then dried under the sun or by machines, until the moisture level is about 10% before they can be packed for storage.
Another method of getting to the coffee beans without undergoing the fermentation process is to dry the whole berry in the sun. It normally takes about 10 to 14 days to complete the process with constant raking of the coffee beans to prevent mildew from forming. This method is popular and widely used by coffee producers where water is scarce. The dried flesh is then physically removed leaving only the coffee beans.
The dried coffee beans is then sorted and graded before they can be stored or shipped to buyers. At this stage, the coffee bean is called green coffee beans.
Sometimes the coffee beans will undergo an additional aging process. The reason for this is because when coffee was first introduced into Europe, the coffee beans have undergone a journey of about six months. Europeans have already developed a preference for this taste and therefore to simulate the taste, the coffee beans are further aged.
Roasting The Coffee Beans
Roasting is the final process the coffee beans have to undergo before they are commercially marketed. It is also possible to purchase un-roasted coffee beans that you can personally roast them yourself.
When the coffee beans are subjected to heat, there’s a chemical reaction happening within the coffee beans where the sugar and acid will begin to react releasing its aroma. The coffee beans will turn darker due to caramelized sucrose. When this happens, the coffee beans are quickly cooled to prevent damage to the coffee beans.
When roasting the green coffee beans, a lot of carbon dioxide is released as a by-product. The carbon dioxide helps to “seal” the coffee beans from loosing its flavor and aroma. Depending on how the coffee beans are stored, it may take some time before the optimum peak flavor. After reaching its peak, it will start loosing its flavor again.
If you are trying to roast your own coffee beans at home, be aware that you may not be successful during the first few times. You might over-burn your coffee beans during your first few tries. Never be discouraged, but try until you get the taste and flavor that appeals to you. Remember to process in small amounts to maintain freshness of your coffee.
Grinding The Coffee Beans
Before the roasted coffee beans can be used, you need to grind the coffee beans first. The coarseness of your coffee depends on your preference and the type of coffee-brewing method. It can range from coarse to very fine as in the Turkish grind. For example, if you’re using a percolator, a course coffee powder is suitable but if you are using an Espresso machines, an extra fine coffee powder is required.
Conclusion
The coffee beans have to undergo a string of processes before it can be consumed. The final flavor of the coffee depends on the journey the coffee beans take in order to reach its final form. Different methods and different techniques will give rise to a varied coffee flavor. This is the reason why there are so many flavors to the simple coffee bean.
By: Elsie Shan
About the Author:
Processing The Coffee Beans
After the coffee berries have been harvested, it needs to undergo a process where the flesh of the coffee berries is removed. The coffee berries are placed in special machines separating the flesh from the seed. This coffee seed is commonly called “coffee beans”. The coffee beans will now undergo a fermentation process for a period of time. This process is done in order to remove the slimy mucilage coating the coffee beans.
After the coffee beans have undergone the mandatory fermentation, they are thoroughly flushed with clean water. This process is to remove the foul smelling residue due to the fermentation process and the waste water is a main cause of pollutant.
The coffee beans are then dried under the sun or by machines, until the moisture level is about 10% before they can be packed for storage.
Another method of getting to the coffee beans without undergoing the fermentation process is to dry the whole berry in the sun. It normally takes about 10 to 14 days to complete the process with constant raking of the coffee beans to prevent mildew from forming. This method is popular and widely used by coffee producers where water is scarce. The dried flesh is then physically removed leaving only the coffee beans.
The dried coffee beans is then sorted and graded before they can be stored or shipped to buyers. At this stage, the coffee bean is called green coffee beans.
Sometimes the coffee beans will undergo an additional aging process. The reason for this is because when coffee was first introduced into Europe, the coffee beans have undergone a journey of about six months. Europeans have already developed a preference for this taste and therefore to simulate the taste, the coffee beans are further aged.
Roasting The Coffee Beans
Roasting is the final process the coffee beans have to undergo before they are commercially marketed. It is also possible to purchase un-roasted coffee beans that you can personally roast them yourself.
When the coffee beans are subjected to heat, there’s a chemical reaction happening within the coffee beans where the sugar and acid will begin to react releasing its aroma. The coffee beans will turn darker due to caramelized sucrose. When this happens, the coffee beans are quickly cooled to prevent damage to the coffee beans.
When roasting the green coffee beans, a lot of carbon dioxide is released as a by-product. The carbon dioxide helps to “seal” the coffee beans from loosing its flavor and aroma. Depending on how the coffee beans are stored, it may take some time before the optimum peak flavor. After reaching its peak, it will start loosing its flavor again.
If you are trying to roast your own coffee beans at home, be aware that you may not be successful during the first few times. You might over-burn your coffee beans during your first few tries. Never be discouraged, but try until you get the taste and flavor that appeals to you. Remember to process in small amounts to maintain freshness of your coffee.
Grinding The Coffee Beans
Before the roasted coffee beans can be used, you need to grind the coffee beans first. The coarseness of your coffee depends on your preference and the type of coffee-brewing method. It can range from coarse to very fine as in the Turkish grind. For example, if you’re using a percolator, a course coffee powder is suitable but if you are using an Espresso machines, an extra fine coffee powder is required.
Conclusion
The coffee beans have to undergo a string of processes before it can be consumed. The final flavor of the coffee depends on the journey the coffee beans take in order to reach its final form. Different methods and different techniques will give rise to a varied coffee flavor. This is the reason why there are so many flavors to the simple coffee bean.
By: Elsie Shan
About the Author:
Oct
28
Kinds of Coffee Beans
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Coffee plants are grown on regions with enough sunlight. There are many kinds of coffee beans available in the market.
Coffea or coffee is a large variety of flowering plants with over 90 species. They are shrubs belonging to the Rubiaceae family native to southern Asia and subtropical Africa. The coffee beverage is derived from the seeds of its fruit or coffee cherries. Coffee plant grows to a comparatively large height and is more precisely described as a tree.
The coffee berries, coffee cherries or fruits usually contain two stones or beans. Coffee beans are mostly made up of endosperm that consists of 0.8 to 2.5 per centum of caffeine. Only a small percentage of coffee cherries have a single bean. This bean is called a peaberry.
Coffee beans are not literally beans. The name originates from the Arabic words gahwa and bunn; gahwa means coffee and bunn means berry. They are the seeds of the coffee plant, and almost all coffee traders call these seeds beans.
Coffee develops under the shade in its natural habitat. Coffee plants grown under the shade, do not deplete the soil’s resources and lives two times longer than sun grown varieties. The quality of shade grown coffee is said to be higher than sun grown coffee. The cherries produced by the coffee tree under the shade are relatively smaller than those of commercial varieties.
Many believe that this smaller cherry contracts the flavors into the bean itself. Majority of coffee is grown on plantations with full-sun. Some coffee plantations were prepared with the use of deforestation.
The two main variety of coffee being grown today are Robusta and Arabica. Robusta comprises about 20 percent of the world’s production. It is a lower grade coffee with higher caffeine content. Robusta trees are normally grown at lower elevations and easier to maintain and cultivate. This type is typically grown to attain a lower priced coffee in the market.
Arabica coffee supplies 75 to 80 percent of the world’s coffee trade. It is usually referred as gourmet coffee by most people because of its superior grade, aromatic properties and desirable taste. Arabica species of coffee are grown all over the world but only a few growers passed the Specialty Coffee Association of America’s standard.
Other kinds of coffee plant being grown include Coffea benghalensis, Coffea congensis, Coffea excelsa, Coffea bonnieri, Coffea gallienii, Coffea mogeneti, Coffea liberica, and Coffea stenophylla. Each species has different characteristics.
Green beans are essentially coffee beans not roasted yet. Its volatile and non-volatile compounds are said to appeal to insects and distract animals from eating the coffee fruits. These compounds also contribute to the flavor of roasted beans. Nitrogenous compounds jointly with carbohydrates are significant for the full aroma or fragrance of roasted coffee beans. The non-volatile nitrogenous compounds include trigonelline, alkaloids, protein and free amino acids.
Gourmet Coffee Beans have volcanica, costa rice, Jamaica blue mountain, and kona. Volcanica are grown at 3,000 to 7,000 feet on mountain slopes created by volcanoes and nurtured on volcanic soil. The moisture coming from the clouds and the cool climate combined gives the coffee a smooth and robust flavor.
Costa rica is among the world’s largest gourmet coffees with clean, light flavor and fantastic aroma. The magnificent growing condition of this tiny Central American nation is due to the fertile volcanic soil and mild climate.
Jamaica blue mountain is considered as the Rolls-Royce of coffee. It is one of the most appreciated gourmet coffees in the world. This coffee has a strong and intense aroma, balanced acidity, and prominent fruit flavors.
Kona coffee has a rich delicious full-bodied flavor grown from the slopes of Mauna Loa Volcano in Hawaii. Plantation needs a sunny weather, rich soil and ample rainfall. This coffee has a luscious, smooth, intense fragrance and nutty flavor that made it very famous throughout the US.
By: David H. Urmann
About the Author:
Coffea or coffee is a large variety of flowering plants with over 90 species. They are shrubs belonging to the Rubiaceae family native to southern Asia and subtropical Africa. The coffee beverage is derived from the seeds of its fruit or coffee cherries. Coffee plant grows to a comparatively large height and is more precisely described as a tree.
The coffee berries, coffee cherries or fruits usually contain two stones or beans. Coffee beans are mostly made up of endosperm that consists of 0.8 to 2.5 per centum of caffeine. Only a small percentage of coffee cherries have a single bean. This bean is called a peaberry.
Coffee beans are not literally beans. The name originates from the Arabic words gahwa and bunn; gahwa means coffee and bunn means berry. They are the seeds of the coffee plant, and almost all coffee traders call these seeds beans.
Coffee develops under the shade in its natural habitat. Coffee plants grown under the shade, do not deplete the soil’s resources and lives two times longer than sun grown varieties. The quality of shade grown coffee is said to be higher than sun grown coffee. The cherries produced by the coffee tree under the shade are relatively smaller than those of commercial varieties.
Many believe that this smaller cherry contracts the flavors into the bean itself. Majority of coffee is grown on plantations with full-sun. Some coffee plantations were prepared with the use of deforestation.
The two main variety of coffee being grown today are Robusta and Arabica. Robusta comprises about 20 percent of the world’s production. It is a lower grade coffee with higher caffeine content. Robusta trees are normally grown at lower elevations and easier to maintain and cultivate. This type is typically grown to attain a lower priced coffee in the market.
Arabica coffee supplies 75 to 80 percent of the world’s coffee trade. It is usually referred as gourmet coffee by most people because of its superior grade, aromatic properties and desirable taste. Arabica species of coffee are grown all over the world but only a few growers passed the Specialty Coffee Association of America’s standard.
Other kinds of coffee plant being grown include Coffea benghalensis, Coffea congensis, Coffea excelsa, Coffea bonnieri, Coffea gallienii, Coffea mogeneti, Coffea liberica, and Coffea stenophylla. Each species has different characteristics.
Green beans are essentially coffee beans not roasted yet. Its volatile and non-volatile compounds are said to appeal to insects and distract animals from eating the coffee fruits. These compounds also contribute to the flavor of roasted beans. Nitrogenous compounds jointly with carbohydrates are significant for the full aroma or fragrance of roasted coffee beans. The non-volatile nitrogenous compounds include trigonelline, alkaloids, protein and free amino acids.
Gourmet Coffee Beans have volcanica, costa rice, Jamaica blue mountain, and kona. Volcanica are grown at 3,000 to 7,000 feet on mountain slopes created by volcanoes and nurtured on volcanic soil. The moisture coming from the clouds and the cool climate combined gives the coffee a smooth and robust flavor.
Costa rica is among the world’s largest gourmet coffees with clean, light flavor and fantastic aroma. The magnificent growing condition of this tiny Central American nation is due to the fertile volcanic soil and mild climate.
Jamaica blue mountain is considered as the Rolls-Royce of coffee. It is one of the most appreciated gourmet coffees in the world. This coffee has a strong and intense aroma, balanced acidity, and prominent fruit flavors.
Kona coffee has a rich delicious full-bodied flavor grown from the slopes of Mauna Loa Volcano in Hawaii. Plantation needs a sunny weather, rich soil and ample rainfall. This coffee has a luscious, smooth, intense fragrance and nutty flavor that made it very famous throughout the US.
By: David H. Urmann
About the Author:
For more information on Classic Roasts and Flavored Coffee Beans please visit our website.
Oct
24
Home Coffee Bean Roasting: The Hidden Trick for a Perfectible Cup of Coffee
The Muslims are construed as the foremost people who perused coffee as early as the ninth century. Its popularity went universal in Europe because of the occupation relations of the Venetians in the Arab countries. In underway time, coffee has grown the second to the highest degree invaluable openly traded commodity. It is merely immediate to oil. A flock of national economies count on its plenty production and worldwide dispersion, such as Uganda, Rwanda, Ethiopia, and some Central American nations.
Fitting In to explores, coffee intake forestalls Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, dementia, heart ailment, liver-related problems, and gout. The odor of coffee rejuvenates missed appetite therefore it is advocated for those who are having eating troubles attributable to lack of appetite. Of Late a plenty of low and moderate enterprises have flourished because of their specialization in coffee. Book buffs and athletes alike would a great deal be figured haunting coffee shops. Some have complained though that pricey coffee served in coffee shops have forlorn their originality. If you were a coffee fan or close if not yet one, healthier do home coffee bean roasting and drink coffee to the full capacity of your heart without disturbing about steep costs of ambience and originality of tastes.
The Importance of Roasting
You could buy the green coffee beans online or any region store. Roast them applying equipment and instruments that you could notice in your home or purchase home roasters and grinders. The sense of taste of coffee is greatly reached by manipulating the bean. As the beans are roasted, they drop off moisture and attain volume therefore suffering concentration. The lesser the density of the coffee beans are, the nicer is the coffee made. fried beans of duller color have smaller caffeine and more sweetness. Lighter ones have greater caffeine content and are to a greater extent bitter. The process of home coffee bean roasting is concluded by heating the green beans until they reach 200 degrees Celsius. As the beans are fried, caramelization takes place where the starches inside the bean are deformed into simple sugars. The extraneous appearance of the beans alter from green to brown.
Online Coffee Roasters
The Internet has established it achievable to purchase an low-cost, efficient, and capable home coffee bean roasting machine without going away your city or state. Coffee roasters in stock online are resourceful of performing the following:
▪ Roasting at least one cup of green beans
▪ 3-stage roasting up to fifteen minutes
▪ Temperature modification as the roasting goes on
▪ Supervising and controlling the roasting time
▪ Memory functions that could store at most ten of your roasting vogues
▪ Recording the roasting time, temperature, and current roasting stage through LCD monitors
▪ Even roasting, which rejects too much or too little roasting of any of the coffee bean
Avail of the guarantee and after-sale servicing tendered by online suppliers of home coffee bean roasting machines such as The Grape and Granary. Be knowledgeable and keep wise, drink coffee you roasted at home. Seize the opportunity to drink coffee or even sell it which are fried matching to your stipulations. Enjoy your home-fried cup of Exact coffee while delighting the new day or relaxing from a frenzied one.
By: Jean Kokus
About the Author:
The home coffee bean roasting increases the taste of your coffee available at http://www.thegrape.net
Oct
24
Healthy Minestrone Soup Recipe
Filed Under Health | Leave a Comment
What sounds more cozy and satisfying on a chilly day, or when the sun fades and it finally cools down in the evening, than a comforting bowl of flavorful soup? In addition to the warmth and comfort soup can offer, it’s also a “secret weapon” for both improved health AND weight loss!
A study was performed in a laboratory in which twenty-four lean women ate breakfast, lunch and dinner under supervision in the lab on one day a week for a total of four weeks. On three of the four days, these women ate one of three different types of “snacks” seventeen minutes before sitting down to the lunch meal. One type of pre-lunch “snack” was a measured portion of chicken and rice casserole. The second type was the same amount of chicken and rice casserole served with a glass of water. The third type was a bowl of chicken and rice soup, which contained the exact same measured amounts of both the casserole and the water that had previously been served separately.
The average amount of calories these women ate at lunch following the pre-lunch snack of soup was significantly lower than on the other days when either just the casserole or the casserole plus a glass of water was ingested prior to the meal. Also, these women did not compensate for the smaller calorie intake at lunch by eating a larger dinner later in the day.
The result of this study suggests that eating soup can help a person to feel full and satisfied while taking in fewer calories. This is just one reason soup is considered to be an essential component of the Tortoise Diet’s “Daily Seven for Success.” Regularly enjoying broth-based soups filled with colorful vegetables and heart-healthy legumes is an easy way to increase the intake of fiber, phytonutrients, vitamins and low-fat protein- all in one satisfying bowl. In addition, eating a hot liquidy concoction, one spoonful at a time, forces a person to slow down the act of eating. This allows the stomach to get the “I’m full” message sooner, so over-eating is less likely.
You’ll find several excellent recipes for delicious, nutrient-dense soups in my book, The Tortoise Diet. The following is just one of the many “How Low Can You Go?” recipes you’ll find located in Appendix C. All of these recipes are intended not only to be nutritious, but to be quick and easy enough for anyone to be able to regularly whip up in their own kitchen. Making this recipe for Minestrone Soup, for example, requires just a few minutes to gather the ingredients, clean and chop the vegetables, open a few cans, and toss everything into a pot.
Once the soup has simmered for an hour or so, you’ll have a week’s worth of individual servings to place into serving-sized containers and pop into the refrigerator or freezer. Throughout the week, it will be a snap to toss one of these containers into a lunch bag, to take with you when you leave the house. The frozen container will help to keep the contents of your lunch bag chilled until you are ready to pop it into the microwave to heat and eat.
So, for your health and for your weight loss … EAT LOTS OF SOUP!
THE TORTOISE DIET RECIPE FOR MINESTRONE SOUP
Place all of the following ingredients into a large stockpot:
1 can fat-free chicken broth plus 32 ounces of water ( may delete the broth and instead use three chicken, vegetable or beef bullion cubes, if desired) 2 cans stewed tomatoes, including liquid 1 can great northern beans, garbanzo beans, or cannellini beans, including liquid 1 can kidney beans, including liquid 2 cans cut green beans, including liquid 1 can (12 ounces) vegetable juice (like V-8) 2 stalks celery, diced 3 carrots, cut into bite sized pieces 1 small onion, diced 1 whole bay leaf 2 cloves garlic, cut into fourths and placed into the broth 1 teaspoon oregano 1½ teaspoons dried thyme 2 dashes Worcestershire sauce ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes Salt and pepper, to taste
Add salt only after the soup has been simmering for 30 minutes or so, after you’ve tasted it, as the liquids already added contain salt.
Simmer for 1 to 2 hours until vegetables are tender.
During the last ½ hour or so of simmering, add 1/4 cup (dry) tiny elbow pasta. During the last 5 minutes of simmering, add 2/3 cup green peas.
Entire recipe = approximately 1,500 calories.
Sprinkle each serving with 2 teaspoons grated Parmesan cheese, if desired (adds 50 calories).
By: Patricia Church
About the Author:
A study was performed in a laboratory in which twenty-four lean women ate breakfast, lunch and dinner under supervision in the lab on one day a week for a total of four weeks. On three of the four days, these women ate one of three different types of “snacks” seventeen minutes before sitting down to the lunch meal. One type of pre-lunch “snack” was a measured portion of chicken and rice casserole. The second type was the same amount of chicken and rice casserole served with a glass of water. The third type was a bowl of chicken and rice soup, which contained the exact same measured amounts of both the casserole and the water that had previously been served separately.
The average amount of calories these women ate at lunch following the pre-lunch snack of soup was significantly lower than on the other days when either just the casserole or the casserole plus a glass of water was ingested prior to the meal. Also, these women did not compensate for the smaller calorie intake at lunch by eating a larger dinner later in the day.
The result of this study suggests that eating soup can help a person to feel full and satisfied while taking in fewer calories. This is just one reason soup is considered to be an essential component of the Tortoise Diet’s “Daily Seven for Success.” Regularly enjoying broth-based soups filled with colorful vegetables and heart-healthy legumes is an easy way to increase the intake of fiber, phytonutrients, vitamins and low-fat protein- all in one satisfying bowl. In addition, eating a hot liquidy concoction, one spoonful at a time, forces a person to slow down the act of eating. This allows the stomach to get the “I’m full” message sooner, so over-eating is less likely.
You’ll find several excellent recipes for delicious, nutrient-dense soups in my book, The Tortoise Diet. The following is just one of the many “How Low Can You Go?” recipes you’ll find located in Appendix C. All of these recipes are intended not only to be nutritious, but to be quick and easy enough for anyone to be able to regularly whip up in their own kitchen. Making this recipe for Minestrone Soup, for example, requires just a few minutes to gather the ingredients, clean and chop the vegetables, open a few cans, and toss everything into a pot.
Once the soup has simmered for an hour or so, you’ll have a week’s worth of individual servings to place into serving-sized containers and pop into the refrigerator or freezer. Throughout the week, it will be a snap to toss one of these containers into a lunch bag, to take with you when you leave the house. The frozen container will help to keep the contents of your lunch bag chilled until you are ready to pop it into the microwave to heat and eat.
So, for your health and for your weight loss … EAT LOTS OF SOUP!
THE TORTOISE DIET RECIPE FOR MINESTRONE SOUP
Place all of the following ingredients into a large stockpot:
1 can fat-free chicken broth plus 32 ounces of water ( may delete the broth and instead use three chicken, vegetable or beef bullion cubes, if desired) 2 cans stewed tomatoes, including liquid 1 can great northern beans, garbanzo beans, or cannellini beans, including liquid 1 can kidney beans, including liquid 2 cans cut green beans, including liquid 1 can (12 ounces) vegetable juice (like V-8) 2 stalks celery, diced 3 carrots, cut into bite sized pieces 1 small onion, diced 1 whole bay leaf 2 cloves garlic, cut into fourths and placed into the broth 1 teaspoon oregano 1½ teaspoons dried thyme 2 dashes Worcestershire sauce ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes Salt and pepper, to taste
Add salt only after the soup has been simmering for 30 minutes or so, after you’ve tasted it, as the liquids already added contain salt.
Simmer for 1 to 2 hours until vegetables are tender.
During the last ½ hour or so of simmering, add 1/4 cup (dry) tiny elbow pasta. During the last 5 minutes of simmering, add 2/3 cup green peas.
Entire recipe = approximately 1,500 calories.
Sprinkle each serving with 2 teaspoons grated Parmesan cheese, if desired (adds 50 calories).
By: Patricia Church
About the Author:
Patricia S. Church RN, BSN, author of The Tortoise Diet invites you to learn more about how she lost 120 pounds. Visit her site at http://www.wintheracetolose.com
Oct
23
Quick Cooking Recipes - You and the Entire Family Can Enjoy
Filed Under Food And Beverage | Leave a Comment
Cooking has always been part of people’s lives. The craving for a magnificent meal has made moms stay in the kitchen for the most part of their lives. Every detail in the preparation must be well-calculated so as to perfect the dish that will be served during dinner time. However, this whole scenario is very tiring and time-consuming.
This is why we have prepared these quick cooking recipes to aid those who do not have the luxury of the time to cook. For sure, you and the entire family can enjoy these 30-minute delights.
Whole-Wheat Linguine Mixed with Ricotta and Green Beans
Directions:
Cook the pasta in boiling water. Make sure to add a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of oil to the water to prevent the strands from sticking with each other. When already firm to the bite, add the ricotta cheese, tossing gently the pasta. Set aside.
Saute garlic and the green beans on olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. In medium-heat, add 1 cup of the pasta broth. Afterwards, put the pasta, tossing gently. When the beans are cooked, add tomatoes. Cook until all the flavors are fully incorporated by the pasta. This may be served with a garnish of lemon slice on top.
Shrimp Scampi
Directions:
Put some salt and pepper on the shrimp. Prepare a pan and put some olive oil in it, making sure it is heat enough. Add the shrimp and sauté until it becomes pink. Remove the shrimp from the pan. Add onions on the same pan and sauté for 3 minutes or until they soften. Add garlic afterwards. Add white wine and some lemon juice. Mix well. Add the shrimps back and let them absorb the mixture. Add some seasoning depending on preference. This is good eaten with rice and some wine.
By: You Lin
About the Author:
This is why we have prepared these quick cooking recipes to aid those who do not have the luxury of the time to cook. For sure, you and the entire family can enjoy these 30-minute delights.
Whole-Wheat Linguine Mixed with Ricotta and Green Beans
Directions:
Cook the pasta in boiling water. Make sure to add a pinch of salt and a teaspoon of oil to the water to prevent the strands from sticking with each other. When already firm to the bite, add the ricotta cheese, tossing gently the pasta. Set aside.
Saute garlic and the green beans on olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. In medium-heat, add 1 cup of the pasta broth. Afterwards, put the pasta, tossing gently. When the beans are cooked, add tomatoes. Cook until all the flavors are fully incorporated by the pasta. This may be served with a garnish of lemon slice on top.
Shrimp Scampi
Directions:
Put some salt and pepper on the shrimp. Prepare a pan and put some olive oil in it, making sure it is heat enough. Add the shrimp and sauté until it becomes pink. Remove the shrimp from the pan. Add onions on the same pan and sauté for 3 minutes or until they soften. Add garlic afterwards. Add white wine and some lemon juice. Mix well. Add the shrimps back and let them absorb the mixture. Add some seasoning depending on preference. This is good eaten with rice and some wine.
By: You Lin
About the Author:
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Oct
21
“Soy bean is good for the health.” We’ve all heard this line before, spoken like a mantra, and with good reason because there is more to soy beans than just being a good source of protein. Soy beans contain isoflavones, gensitein, daidzen, and a generous amount of antioxidants. All these substances contribute the bean’s health-promoting goodness.
There is, however, one compound found soy bean that is generating much interest from the scientific and medical circles. That compound is soy bean lecithin, or if you prefer, phosphatidylcholine (PC). It is a kind of lipid that is found in all cells of all living organisms in the world. It forms a major component of the cell membrane, alongside cholesterol and glyceride.
So if this lecithin substance can be found in every cell, then we already have it right? Why do we need alternate sources such as soy bean lecithin? The answer is simple: because this compound is so vital to our body that we cannot afford to have inadequate supply.
Soy bean lecithin was first discovered in the 1930s when the compound was extracted from sludge, a by product of soybean oil processing. Of course, decades before that, lecithin was already found in egg yolk and most of the commercial lecithin sold in the market that time was egg lecithin.
But then with the emergence of soy bean lecithin, a shift also occurred. Lecithin that is derived from plant, such as soy bean lecithin, is regarded as safer to use than those extracted from animals since animal lecithin is often excreted by the kidney, which contains toxins and other harmful substances. As such, soy bean lecithin came to replace egg lecithin as being the major source of this compound.
Soy bean lecithin is composed of three types of phospholipids: phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylehtanolamine (PE), and phosphatidylinositol (PI). The most important is phosphatidylcholine which, when synthesized, becomes choline, an essential nutrient that is desperately needed by the body.
Phosphatidylcholine contributes to the structural integrity of the cell. Being a major component of the cell membrane, it also helps facilitate the movement of fluids in and out of the cell as well as eases cell signaling or communication. It is particularly important in such vital organs as the liver and the brain. Choline helps synthesize acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for much of our cognitive functions. Because of this unique function of choline, many scientists believe that supplementing our choline supply by taking soy lecithin may aid in brain related disorders, including dementia, memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease, and many others.
In the liver, the function of phosphatidylcholine is that of an emulsifying agent. It is found in the bile where it keeps the essential fatty acids, stabilizing them and protecting them from the harmful toxins also contained in the bile.
Phosphatidylcholine also helps disperse cholesterol in the blood to keep them from sticking to the walls of the arteries. In so doing, it may have a positive effect on the thickening of the arteries, a condition commonly known as atherosclerosis, and help prevent the symptoms of high blood pressure.
By: Jill Sabato
About the Author:
There is, however, one compound found soy bean that is generating much interest from the scientific and medical circles. That compound is soy bean lecithin, or if you prefer, phosphatidylcholine (PC). It is a kind of lipid that is found in all cells of all living organisms in the world. It forms a major component of the cell membrane, alongside cholesterol and glyceride.
So if this lecithin substance can be found in every cell, then we already have it right? Why do we need alternate sources such as soy bean lecithin? The answer is simple: because this compound is so vital to our body that we cannot afford to have inadequate supply.
Soy bean lecithin was first discovered in the 1930s when the compound was extracted from sludge, a by product of soybean oil processing. Of course, decades before that, lecithin was already found in egg yolk and most of the commercial lecithin sold in the market that time was egg lecithin.
But then with the emergence of soy bean lecithin, a shift also occurred. Lecithin that is derived from plant, such as soy bean lecithin, is regarded as safer to use than those extracted from animals since animal lecithin is often excreted by the kidney, which contains toxins and other harmful substances. As such, soy bean lecithin came to replace egg lecithin as being the major source of this compound.
Soy bean lecithin is composed of three types of phospholipids: phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylehtanolamine (PE), and phosphatidylinositol (PI). The most important is phosphatidylcholine which, when synthesized, becomes choline, an essential nutrient that is desperately needed by the body.
Phosphatidylcholine contributes to the structural integrity of the cell. Being a major component of the cell membrane, it also helps facilitate the movement of fluids in and out of the cell as well as eases cell signaling or communication. It is particularly important in such vital organs as the liver and the brain. Choline helps synthesize acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for much of our cognitive functions. Because of this unique function of choline, many scientists believe that supplementing our choline supply by taking soy lecithin may aid in brain related disorders, including dementia, memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease, and many others.
In the liver, the function of phosphatidylcholine is that of an emulsifying agent. It is found in the bile where it keeps the essential fatty acids, stabilizing them and protecting them from the harmful toxins also contained in the bile.
Phosphatidylcholine also helps disperse cholesterol in the blood to keep them from sticking to the walls of the arteries. In so doing, it may have a positive effect on the thickening of the arteries, a condition commonly known as atherosclerosis, and help prevent the symptoms of high blood pressure.
By: Jill Sabato
About the Author:
Read about how to grow potatoes and how to make mashed potatoes at the Fruits And Vegetables website.
Oct
21
It is recorded that coffee drinking originated in Ethiopia in North East Africa, from where Arab traders introduced the plant to the Middle East. From there it moved to Turkey in the 15th century, where it was highly prized as a daily beverage due its invigorating properties. It is also believed that the infamous Captain John Smith introduced the plant to Virginia.
The Brazilian coffee trade was due largely to the introduction of the bean to that country by the French in 1727, and the Boston Tea Party of 1773 rendered it the only non-alcoholic drink worth consuming by the patriots of 18th century America. Now over 50% of Americans drink coffee daily, although this seems a somewhat conservative estimate, and the tea houses of England have largely been replaced by coffee shops and the ubiquitous Starbucks.
So much for the history of a beverage that has been prized for its stimulant properties, but recent research has established that not only is coffee a stimulating drink, but that it is a strong antioxidant due to its polyphenol content. However, not all forms of coffee have this property, only the green coffee bean before it has been roasted. Polyphenols are very powerful antioxidants that scavenge the free radicals that destroy body cells, and not only accelerate aging but also threaten the health of your cardiovascular system and the health of other major organs.
Free radicals are compounds with a spare electron. Normally the electrons in all stable molecules come in pairs, and any free electron without a partner is like a lovelorn bachelor. It will seek a mate, and take it from wherever it can find one. Usually it secures its partner by stealing an electron from one of our body cells. This can totally destroy the cell, as it might anybody who has its partner stolen, and cell destruction is not a good thing. It is the destruction of body cells that promotes the appearance that aging brings: the wrinkles and the loss of energy that is generated by healthy cellular activity.
Antioxidants destroy these free radicals, and come in a number of different guises. Vitamins A, C and E are all powerful antioxidants, as are many of the compounds that are essential to our biochemistry such as beta carotene and polyphenols. These polyphenols are found in practically all plants to a greater or lesser degree, and another rich source is grapes, and those found in green coffee beans are what are known as hydroxycinnamic acids the most abundant of which is caffeic acid. Another is chlorogenic acid, and together they form a very potent team in preventing the oxidation by free radicals of LDL (low density lipoprotein).
Low density lipoproteins are those that carry cholesterol from the liver to areas of the body that need first aid due to damage, such the arterial walls. However, this can be attacked by free radicals and oxidized which results in the deposition of excess cholesterol that can build up till it eventually constricts, and sometimes completely blocks, the major cardiac arteries. This is a serious condition known as atherosclerosis that can eventually lead to cardiac disease and arrest or to strokes if the artery is in the brain.
Not only do chlorogenic and caffeic acid help to prevent this from occurring, but they also help to prevent the cellular degeneration caused by the free radicals. They must be extracted from the green coffee bean because roasting or heating in any way, including brewing, destroys them. In fact, brewed coffee contains some potentially harmful substances called diterpenes that some believe can increase your chances of coronary disease by up to fifth if you drink coffee regularly over your lifetime.
It is also believed that green coffee extract can reduce the risk of diabetes due to its effect on your blood glucose levels. Evidence is coming to light that some polyphenols, including chlorogenic acid, might have inhibiting properties on the activity of glucose-6-phosphate, otherwise known as Robison Ester, which is involved in the metabolism of blood glucose and which is affected by diabetes which reduces its concentration. Chlorogenic acid is though to be able to redress this imbalance and not only reduce blood glucose levels, but increase the glycogen stored in the liver as an emergency energy source for the body.
Green coffee bean extract also possesses other beneficial properties, not the least of which is its effect in increasing the metabolism of fats in relation to carbohydrates. This assists in weight loss and also increases stamina. The decrease in the risk of diabetes of up to 50% in men, and slightly less in women, could be due to a combination of the regulation of glucose-6-phosphate and the regulation of blood glucose levels and glucose and weight management in general. The vast majority of diabetes patients are overweight.
In animal studies, the presence of chlorogenic acid appears to reduce the hyperglycemic peak that arises through the action of glucagon, a hormone used to counter hypoglycemia. The fact that chlorogenic acid reduced this sugar peak indicates its potential use in reducing abnormally high blood glucose levels. Another effect of this was an increase in the animal’s glycogen level and in the level of glucose-6-phosphate in the liver.
This indicates a reduction in glycogenolysis, by which glycogen is ultimately converted to glucose-6-phosphate and glucose, thus increasing the blood glucose levels and also of gluconeogenesis which is the production of glucose from carbohydrates and some glucogenic amino acids. In other words, green coffee bean extract can help to regulate blood glucose levels by preventing the liver from producing glucose from glycogen and carbohydrates.
However, the biochemistry apart, it must be stressed that these benefits are not obtained by drinking coffee, and it has to be repeated that the active agents in providing them are destroyed by the roasting and brewing processes. It is only the green coffee beans that can be used for protection of oxidative stress of human body cells and the gradual degradation into premature aging and many other related conditions.
By: Darrell Miller
About the Author:
The Brazilian coffee trade was due largely to the introduction of the bean to that country by the French in 1727, and the Boston Tea Party of 1773 rendered it the only non-alcoholic drink worth consuming by the patriots of 18th century America. Now over 50% of Americans drink coffee daily, although this seems a somewhat conservative estimate, and the tea houses of England have largely been replaced by coffee shops and the ubiquitous Starbucks.
So much for the history of a beverage that has been prized for its stimulant properties, but recent research has established that not only is coffee a stimulating drink, but that it is a strong antioxidant due to its polyphenol content. However, not all forms of coffee have this property, only the green coffee bean before it has been roasted. Polyphenols are very powerful antioxidants that scavenge the free radicals that destroy body cells, and not only accelerate aging but also threaten the health of your cardiovascular system and the health of other major organs.
Free radicals are compounds with a spare electron. Normally the electrons in all stable molecules come in pairs, and any free electron without a partner is like a lovelorn bachelor. It will seek a mate, and take it from wherever it can find one. Usually it secures its partner by stealing an electron from one of our body cells. This can totally destroy the cell, as it might anybody who has its partner stolen, and cell destruction is not a good thing. It is the destruction of body cells that promotes the appearance that aging brings: the wrinkles and the loss of energy that is generated by healthy cellular activity.
Antioxidants destroy these free radicals, and come in a number of different guises. Vitamins A, C and E are all powerful antioxidants, as are many of the compounds that are essential to our biochemistry such as beta carotene and polyphenols. These polyphenols are found in practically all plants to a greater or lesser degree, and another rich source is grapes, and those found in green coffee beans are what are known as hydroxycinnamic acids the most abundant of which is caffeic acid. Another is chlorogenic acid, and together they form a very potent team in preventing the oxidation by free radicals of LDL (low density lipoprotein).
Low density lipoproteins are those that carry cholesterol from the liver to areas of the body that need first aid due to damage, such the arterial walls. However, this can be attacked by free radicals and oxidized which results in the deposition of excess cholesterol that can build up till it eventually constricts, and sometimes completely blocks, the major cardiac arteries. This is a serious condition known as atherosclerosis that can eventually lead to cardiac disease and arrest or to strokes if the artery is in the brain.
Not only do chlorogenic and caffeic acid help to prevent this from occurring, but they also help to prevent the cellular degeneration caused by the free radicals. They must be extracted from the green coffee bean because roasting or heating in any way, including brewing, destroys them. In fact, brewed coffee contains some potentially harmful substances called diterpenes that some believe can increase your chances of coronary disease by up to fifth if you drink coffee regularly over your lifetime.
It is also believed that green coffee extract can reduce the risk of diabetes due to its effect on your blood glucose levels. Evidence is coming to light that some polyphenols, including chlorogenic acid, might have inhibiting properties on the activity of glucose-6-phosphate, otherwise known as Robison Ester, which is involved in the metabolism of blood glucose and which is affected by diabetes which reduces its concentration. Chlorogenic acid is though to be able to redress this imbalance and not only reduce blood glucose levels, but increase the glycogen stored in the liver as an emergency energy source for the body.
Green coffee bean extract also possesses other beneficial properties, not the least of which is its effect in increasing the metabolism of fats in relation to carbohydrates. This assists in weight loss and also increases stamina. The decrease in the risk of diabetes of up to 50% in men, and slightly less in women, could be due to a combination of the regulation of glucose-6-phosphate and the regulation of blood glucose levels and glucose and weight management in general. The vast majority of diabetes patients are overweight.
In animal studies, the presence of chlorogenic acid appears to reduce the hyperglycemic peak that arises through the action of glucagon, a hormone used to counter hypoglycemia. The fact that chlorogenic acid reduced this sugar peak indicates its potential use in reducing abnormally high blood glucose levels. Another effect of this was an increase in the animal’s glycogen level and in the level of glucose-6-phosphate in the liver.
This indicates a reduction in glycogenolysis, by which glycogen is ultimately converted to glucose-6-phosphate and glucose, thus increasing the blood glucose levels and also of gluconeogenesis which is the production of glucose from carbohydrates and some glucogenic amino acids. In other words, green coffee bean extract can help to regulate blood glucose levels by preventing the liver from producing glucose from glycogen and carbohydrates.
However, the biochemistry apart, it must be stressed that these benefits are not obtained by drinking coffee, and it has to be repeated that the active agents in providing them are destroyed by the roasting and brewing processes. It is only the green coffee beans that can be used for protection of oxidative stress of human body cells and the gradual degradation into premature aging and many other related conditions.
By: Darrell Miller
About the Author:
More information on Green Coffee Extract can be found at VitaNet, LLC Health Food Store; your source for natural vitamins and health foods. http://vitanetonline.com/
Oct
20
Using Smoked Food in Recipes
Filed Under 1963 | Leave a Comment
Tired of the same old meal? Try using smoked food in recipes! Imagine sitting down to dinner and having a delicious smell waft through the air. More importantly, imagine the succulent taste of that delicious meal! If you are wondering how you can spice up your next meal by using smoked food in recipes, read on….
Using smoke food in recipes will add exceptional flavor to your ordinary dish. The unique blend of natural wood smoke, seasonings and brines compliment fish, fowl, or meat. You can use smoked food in recipes as appetizers or entrees. Either way, you will enjoy a more savory version of many meats.
Smoked fish, especially trout or salmon is very flavorful and moist. There is a variety of smoked fish to suit everyone’s taste. Try something like hickory smoked or lemon peppered smoke trout and experience the flavor and tenderness this fish has to offer. You may also want to try the buttery and moist taste of Chilean sea bass or naturally sweet and tender diver scallops. To really enjoy smoked food in recipes, serve the ultimate smoked trout you and your guests will ever try, the natural smoked Tasmanian trout! If fowl is more your style, try juicy boneless duck breast or chicken in your next recipe. Serve it along with long grain wild rice and fresh green bean accompaniments for a complete meal. Pheasant, the king of all game birds, will be sure to impress your guests, as this plump, moist and meaty bird is truly a meal fit for a king!
For the true meat eater, you may want to start off with a mouth watering serving of smoked pork tenderloin, boneless port loin or pork ribs smoked to the peak of flavor. Add a twist to your next meal by serving a tantalizing gourmet feast when you use smoked food in recipes. You can serve smoked food in salads, on crackers, or as a main course and be pleasantly surprised at the unique taste and flavor these smoked foods have to offer.
These exceptional smoked foods can be ordered from a variety of websites on the internet. An exceptional line of smoked foods is offered by Sugartown Smoked Specialties. You can view their products and wonderful recipes at www.SmokedFoods.com. Surprise your family or guests and spice up your next meal by using smoked food in your recipe.
By: Nancy
About the Author:
Using smoke food in recipes will add exceptional flavor to your ordinary dish. The unique blend of natural wood smoke, seasonings and brines compliment fish, fowl, or meat. You can use smoked food in recipes as appetizers or entrees. Either way, you will enjoy a more savory version of many meats.
Smoked fish, especially trout or salmon is very flavorful and moist. There is a variety of smoked fish to suit everyone’s taste. Try something like hickory smoked or lemon peppered smoke trout and experience the flavor and tenderness this fish has to offer. You may also want to try the buttery and moist taste of Chilean sea bass or naturally sweet and tender diver scallops. To really enjoy smoked food in recipes, serve the ultimate smoked trout you and your guests will ever try, the natural smoked Tasmanian trout! If fowl is more your style, try juicy boneless duck breast or chicken in your next recipe. Serve it along with long grain wild rice and fresh green bean accompaniments for a complete meal. Pheasant, the king of all game birds, will be sure to impress your guests, as this plump, moist and meaty bird is truly a meal fit for a king!
For the true meat eater, you may want to start off with a mouth watering serving of smoked pork tenderloin, boneless port loin or pork ribs smoked to the peak of flavor. Add a twist to your next meal by serving a tantalizing gourmet feast when you use smoked food in recipes. You can serve smoked food in salads, on crackers, or as a main course and be pleasantly surprised at the unique taste and flavor these smoked foods have to offer.
These exceptional smoked foods can be ordered from a variety of websites on the internet. An exceptional line of smoked foods is offered by Sugartown Smoked Specialties. You can view their products and wonderful recipes at www.SmokedFoods.com. Surprise your family or guests and spice up your next meal by using smoked food in your recipe.
By: Nancy
About the Author:
For more information about Using Smoked Food in Recipes, please visit us at www.SmokedFoods.com
Oct
19
Old-fashion Potluck Recipes; Beans and Franks and Tropical Wedding Cake Ad Recipe
Filed Under 1863 | Leave a Comment
We are all invited to potluck meals at times. Whether it is a family get-together, church social activity, office meal, community night-out, or other occasion requiring you to take a dish to share, here are a couple of old fashion recipes that are sure to please. They are simple, quick, easy to prepare, tasty, and economical. Beans and Franks are always a crowd pleaser and a special hit with the kids. Tropical Wedding Cake is an easy cake that looks and taste like you spent lots of time on it. It is also a good “make ahead” cake since it needs to be refrigerated over night.
TROPICAL WEDDING CAKE AD RECIPE
This recipe for Tropical Wedding Cake is from an old, yellowed and ripped newspaper clipping. A local Southern Indiana grocery store had run this ad as their recipe of the week.
1 box yellow cake mix, prepared as directed on box and baked in a greased and floured 9 x 13-inch pan.
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup sugar with a one pound four ounce can of crushed pineapple and cook over medium heat for five minutes.
When cake comes from oven, pierce top with a large fork and pour warm pineapple-sugar mixture over the cake.
Prepare one large package of vanilla pudding (not instant) according to directions and spread over pineapple. Cover and refrigerate cake overnight.
When ready to serve, spread Regular or Extra Creamy Whipped Topping over top of cake and sprinkle with coconut.
BEANS AND FRANKS
3 slices bacon, cut in 1-inch pieces
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped green pepper
1/2 lb frankfurters, cut in 1-inch pieces
1 can (1 lb. 14 oz) pork and beans
1/2 cup ketchup
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tbsp mustard
4-oz Cheddar cheese, sliced about 3/4-inch wide
In a ten inch skillet, cook bacon until crisp. Saute onion, pepper and franks in skillet with bacon until onion is transparent. In a 3-quart casserole combine all ingredients except cheese. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Arrange cheese slices on top in spoke design. Bake ten minutes longer. Makes 6 to 8 servings.
Enjoy!
By: Grandma Linda
About the Author:
TROPICAL WEDDING CAKE AD RECIPE
This recipe for Tropical Wedding Cake is from an old, yellowed and ripped newspaper clipping. A local Southern Indiana grocery store had run this ad as their recipe of the week.
1 box yellow cake mix, prepared as directed on box and baked in a greased and floured 9 x 13-inch pan.
In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup sugar with a one pound four ounce can of crushed pineapple and cook over medium heat for five minutes.
When cake comes from oven, pierce top with a large fork and pour warm pineapple-sugar mixture over the cake.
Prepare one large package of vanilla pudding (not instant) according to directions and spread over pineapple. Cover and refrigerate cake overnight.
When ready to serve, spread Regular or Extra Creamy Whipped Topping over top of cake and sprinkle with coconut.
BEANS AND FRANKS
3 slices bacon, cut in 1-inch pieces
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 cup chopped green pepper
1/2 lb frankfurters, cut in 1-inch pieces
1 can (1 lb. 14 oz) pork and beans
1/2 cup ketchup
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tbsp mustard
4-oz Cheddar cheese, sliced about 3/4-inch wide
In a ten inch skillet, cook bacon until crisp. Saute onion, pepper and franks in skillet with bacon until onion is transparent. In a 3-quart casserole combine all ingredients except cheese. Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Arrange cheese slices on top in spoke design. Bake ten minutes longer. Makes 6 to 8 servings.
Enjoy!
By: Grandma Linda
About the Author:
Grandma Linda is a collector of vintage recipes. She enjoys sharing these old-time recipes with others at her blog http://grandmasvintagerecipes.blogspot.com She also shares diabetic recipes and information at diabeticenjoyingfood.squarespace.com
Oct
18
How to Make Free Dog Food Recipes at Home
Filed Under Pets | Leave a Comment
Dog will surely appreciate your love to him and could love you more. It’s important; dogs should be treated like a child. So as like children they should provide homemade food for their better growth. Dog food recipes are very much available in internet, books these days.
Homemade dog food should have a proper mixture of meat, vegetable and starches. Dogs are very fond of meat. So a large number of ingredients should be meat such as beef or chicken, if possible soft chicken bones. A good deal of carbohydrates and vegetable should be mixed in the food. Potatoes or rice can be used as carbohydrates. But should not use pasta, corn, wheat or soy as they are not good for dogs health.
Vegetable is also very much essential for dog’s proper growth. Among the vegetables cabbage, beans, spinach, green beans, yams, sweet potato, carrot, peas are very essential for their growth. So you should feed vegetable along with meats. Also keep in mind the amount you should feed to your dog vary on their age, size, breed etc. less fat means a healthier heart. The same principle is applicable for dog. We can ensure healthier heart for dog by reducing fat contents from dogs food. It also helps the dog to avoid overweight in the future.
There is lots of information about free dog food recipes in the internet. You can easily choose on the one that is best suit for your dog. Also you can visit different forums where you can find opinion of peoples who have dogs. All this help you to make your dog healthy and stronger.
By: sidana.abhi
About the Author:
Homemade dog food should have a proper mixture of meat, vegetable and starches. Dogs are very fond of meat. So a large number of ingredients should be meat such as beef or chicken, if possible soft chicken bones. A good deal of carbohydrates and vegetable should be mixed in the food. Potatoes or rice can be used as carbohydrates. But should not use pasta, corn, wheat or soy as they are not good for dogs health.
Vegetable is also very much essential for dog’s proper growth. Among the vegetables cabbage, beans, spinach, green beans, yams, sweet potato, carrot, peas are very essential for their growth. So you should feed vegetable along with meats. Also keep in mind the amount you should feed to your dog vary on their age, size, breed etc. less fat means a healthier heart. The same principle is applicable for dog. We can ensure healthier heart for dog by reducing fat contents from dogs food. It also helps the dog to avoid overweight in the future.
There is lots of information about free dog food recipes in the internet. You can easily choose on the one that is best suit for your dog. Also you can visit different forums where you can find opinion of peoples who have dogs. All this help you to make your dog healthy and stronger.
By: sidana.abhi
About the Author:
You might not be knowing that most of the dog diseases are due to bad dog food. Prepare the best healthy dog food recipe for your dog. Dog Food Secrets is a guide that explains the dog food recipes with pictures. Check out Dog Food Secrets Review and don’t let your dog die young.
Oct
18
Ten Additional Uses for Jelly Beans
Filed Under Shopping | Leave a Comment
The jelly bean is the traditional base for Easter baskets filled with candies. It’s typical for parents to utilize the economical jelly bean for the bulk of the goodies, and to accent the baskets with the more expensive items like chocolate bunnies and malted eggs. Alas, Easter comes but once a year. However, you can enjoy jelly beans all year long by utilizing these 10 great ideas!
1) Jelly Belly offers gourmet beans that are great for making wonderful party favors at weddings, birthdays, and more. There are so many colors of jelly beans available that you are sure to find some that will go with the wedding colors, which isn’t necessarily true for, let’s say, Jordan almonds.
2) Toss in some jelly beans and perk up your normal trail mix. The added sugar will give you an additional boost. It’s as easy as mixing one part each of peanuts, pretzels, and jelly beans.
3.) Use jelly beans to decorate frosted cakes and cupcakes. Since there are myriad colors, the decorating ideas are limitless. Plus, you can give your cupcakes a little color boost with out having to deal with mixing frostings and messy frosting bags.
4) Adding red and green jelly beans to a popcorn garland will create an old time effect for your Christmas tree. After the holiday season, you can eat your holiday garland as you pack away the decorations.
5) Jelly beans serve as colorful “roof tiles” and “stones” for ginger bread houses’ roofs and fireplaces.
Jelly beans can be used in many ways in addition to satisfying your taste buds.
6) Instead of poker chips, you can use jelly beans for penny ante poker. Colored jelly beans are great to work with, because you can assign values to colors (unlike with matchsticks).
7) Are your bingo chips few and far between? Jelly beans are great place markers for bingo squares, as each number is called out.
Anyone would love to see jelly beans as decoration for a flower vase. Nest one flower vase inside of another clear one. While the inner vase will hold the flowers and water when complete, build a color coordinated pattern between the two vases using various colored jelly beans.
9) Jelly beans as a medium of artistic expression! Bright beans have been used to construct serious artwork. Watch your own creations unfold before your eyes. A foam core board can be used as a sturdy base that you can glue the jelly beans upon to produce your work of art.
10) Most little girls would love to have jelly bean bracelets strung with nylon thread as party favors for their birthdays. Craft stores sell clasps at very reasonable prices.
Well, there they are! These can be goofy, but novel ways to use jelly beans. This candy can be bought at any time by visiting various candy stores on the internet, if you wish to utilize them for your purposes.
By: Christopher Pratt
About the Author:
1) Jelly Belly offers gourmet beans that are great for making wonderful party favors at weddings, birthdays, and more. There are so many colors of jelly beans available that you are sure to find some that will go with the wedding colors, which isn’t necessarily true for, let’s say, Jordan almonds.
2) Toss in some jelly beans and perk up your normal trail mix. The added sugar will give you an additional boost. It’s as easy as mixing one part each of peanuts, pretzels, and jelly beans.
3.) Use jelly beans to decorate frosted cakes and cupcakes. Since there are myriad colors, the decorating ideas are limitless. Plus, you can give your cupcakes a little color boost with out having to deal with mixing frostings and messy frosting bags.
4) Adding red and green jelly beans to a popcorn garland will create an old time effect for your Christmas tree. After the holiday season, you can eat your holiday garland as you pack away the decorations.
5) Jelly beans serve as colorful “roof tiles” and “stones” for ginger bread houses’ roofs and fireplaces.
Jelly beans can be used in many ways in addition to satisfying your taste buds.
6) Instead of poker chips, you can use jelly beans for penny ante poker. Colored jelly beans are great to work with, because you can assign values to colors (unlike with matchsticks).
7) Are your bingo chips few and far between? Jelly beans are great place markers for bingo squares, as each number is called out.
Anyone would love to see jelly beans as decoration for a flower vase. Nest one flower vase inside of another clear one. While the inner vase will hold the flowers and water when complete, build a color coordinated pattern between the two vases using various colored jelly beans.9) Jelly beans as a medium of artistic expression! Bright beans have been used to construct serious artwork. Watch your own creations unfold before your eyes. A foam core board can be used as a sturdy base that you can glue the jelly beans upon to produce your work of art.
10) Most little girls would love to have jelly bean bracelets strung with nylon thread as party favors for their birthdays. Craft stores sell clasps at very reasonable prices.
Well, there they are! These can be goofy, but novel ways to use jelly beans. This candy can be bought at any time by visiting various candy stores on the internet, if you wish to utilize them for your purposes.
By: Christopher Pratt
About the Author:
As one of the leading candy store owners on the internet, Christopher Pratt is a man on a mission. His mission: to sell every conceivable type of candies for every conceivable purpose. And that is precisely what Candy Warehouse does. From mints to jelly belly candy, from red candy to blue candy, from assortments to specialties, this candy store offers it all.
Oct
16
How to Make Free Dog Food Recipes at Home
Filed Under Pets | Leave a Comment
Dog will surely appreciate your love to him and could love you more. It’s important; dogs should be treated like a child. So as like children they should provide homemade food for their better growth. Dog food recipes are very much available in internet, books these days.
Homemade dog food should have a proper mixture of meat, vegetable and starches. Dogs are very fond of meat. So a large number of ingredients should be meat such as beef or chicken, if possible soft chicken bones. A good deal of carbohydrates and vegetable should be mixed in the food. Potatoes or rice can be used as carbohydrates. But should not use pasta, corn, wheat or soy as they are not good for dogs health.
Vegetable is also very much essential for dog’s proper growth. Among the vegetables cabbage, beans, spinach, green beans, yams, sweet potato, carrot, peas are very essential for their growth. So you should feed vegetable along with meats. Also keep in mind the amount you should feed to your dog vary on their age, size, breed etc. less fat means a healthier heart. The same principle is applicable for dog. We can ensure healthier heart for dog by reducing fat contents from dogs food. It also helps the dog to avoid overweight in the future.
There is lots of information about free dog food recipes in the internet. You can easily choose on the one that is best suit for your dog. Also you can visit different forums where you can find opinion of peoples who have dogs. All this help you to make your dog healthy and stronger.
By: sidana.abhi
About the Author:
Homemade dog food should have a proper mixture of meat, vegetable and starches. Dogs are very fond of meat. So a large number of ingredients should be meat such as beef or chicken, if possible soft chicken bones. A good deal of carbohydrates and vegetable should be mixed in the food. Potatoes or rice can be used as carbohydrates. But should not use pasta, corn, wheat or soy as they are not good for dogs health.
Vegetable is also very much essential for dog’s proper growth. Among the vegetables cabbage, beans, spinach, green beans, yams, sweet potato, carrot, peas are very essential for their growth. So you should feed vegetable along with meats. Also keep in mind the amount you should feed to your dog vary on their age, size, breed etc. less fat means a healthier heart. The same principle is applicable for dog. We can ensure healthier heart for dog by reducing fat contents from dogs food. It also helps the dog to avoid overweight in the future.
There is lots of information about free dog food recipes in the internet. You can easily choose on the one that is best suit for your dog. Also you can visit different forums where you can find opinion of peoples who have dogs. All this help you to make your dog healthy and stronger.
By: sidana.abhi
About the Author:
You might not be knowing that most of the dog diseases are due to bad dog food. Prepare the best healthy dog food recipe for your dog. Dog Food Secrets is a guide that explains the dog food recipes with pictures. Check out Dog Food Secrets Review and don’t let your dog die young.
Oct
16
Green Ambassadors New World Leaders in Training
Filed Under Causes And Organizations | Leave a Comment
Visiting the Green Ambassadors new facilities in Lawndale, California I noticed right away this program is driving Environmental Charter High School to be like no other. Maybe it was the compost corner and vegetable garden, or where they convert vegetables into biodiesel. Or the First Place award-winning ‘Floatation Machine’ made out 100% recycled products. Either way, this school is unique. I am at the home of The Green Ambassadors (Green Ambassadors website), which is an educational program from the Environmental Charter High School.
Sara Laimon, the magnetic Founder of Green Ambassadors gave me a tour of their new facilities of ECHS and Green Ambassadors, while still in the remodeling and upgrading phase. As the school is moving out of boxes, and organizing their new classrooms she explained the sustainable plans in store for this unique Environmental Charter High School. There is an air of excitement. As I peaked into the classrooms, students were busy with various projects. These students know they are making a difference in our world for generations to come. The Green Ambassador Program is comprised of an elective class taught throughout schools in Los Angeles area, Youth Summits, Green Mobile Embassy, Green Adventures and supported by Green Mentors.
This groundbreaking organization is beginning to explode. The green element of the program is so strong that even during our interview she was selling organic soda to students from her office. In fact we were surrounded by green solutions, hangers made from wheat, recycled binders made from paper, Forest Certified pencils, even donated environmentally friendly, bio-degradable diapers are stacked on her desk in the office she shares with her green partners. “This program is created to breakdown our cultural social paradigms and educate all. Especially the communities that suffer the most from environmental injustices, the inner city, who normally miss the green education on how to advocate for a clean, healthy environment.” Laimon.
Green Ambassadors, a project of Environmental Charter High School, is an environmental education program that empowers youth to become agents of change in their communities and the world. The goals of the program include: Educating and motivating youth, inspiring them to set a "Green" example through open idea exchange and social action; To create a learning environment that will inspire new thought, helping young people to develop confidence in themselves and their future; To network communities, share ideas and empower local and global environmental solutions; To create "Green Ambassadors" for local communities and the world, inspiring hope within us all for a just, sustainable and peaceful planet.
I asked Sara what’s the future you see for the Green Ambassadors?
With certainty she said, "For all schools to have Green Ambassadors around the world. Who are agents of change and the voice of the environment."
The Green Ambassador elective class at Environmental Charter High School is a required course for every student to take in their 10th grade year where students receive college credit from Los Angeles Trade Technical College. The Green Ambassadors have already been accomplishing their mission through their trainings in initiatives. These initiatives are implemented by youth who are committed to fulfilling Green Ambassadors mission, vision, values, and goals. The Green Ambassador program provides a different way of learning for youth who want to contribute to this planet.
They have been trained in the One Billion Bulbs Youth empowering youth to imagine the possibilities. With a goal of mobilizing the world to replace one billion standard incandescent light bulbs with energy-efficient compact fluorescent (CFL) light bulbs. Plastics are Forever is another initiative where youth empowering youth to create cleaner oceans by banning plastic bags and Styrofoam (polystyrene) in Los Angeles with Algalita Marine Research Foundation, Bring Your Own, Heal the Bay and other non-profits. Green Ambassadors are trained in Biofuels, Organics, Biodiversity, Remediation of our soil, and constructing buildings and structures out of earth friendly materials.
‘Floatation Machine’ made of all recycled products
"Sara Laimon has been a positive light within the sustainability movement for the past ten years. During her career as a classroom teacher, she has guided classes and school groups to create cob benches, convert a diesel car to run on veggie oil, create bio-diesel, and eat organic. Sara has traveled to Brazil, Colombia, Argentina, Haiti, Greece, and Galapagos finding, sharing, and learning solutions. She is devoting her life to creating and nurturing eco-activists to be empowered to share the solutions of hope."
Green Ambassadors currently has two teachers. They are unique in that they are well versed in Environmental Studies. "They approached me with a huge desire for a huge change." Sara shared with me. The names of these incredible teachers are Sandra Valencia who is originally from Colombia, she has taught High School Spanish for the past five years at ECHS and Dorsey High School (LAUSD). She has been an environmental activist for the past five years working with the Los Angeles Biodiesel Coalition, Dorsey High School’s club Global Warriors. Gabriel Azenna, who’s statement is "Green’ isn’t merely a color… but it’s a state of mind". He adheres to a pragmatic acceptance that human beings may continue to prosper, but only by recognizing and embracing our integral duty as planetary stewards. Beyond the classroom, Gabriel is the Environmental Education Director for Next Aid, a non-profit organization his wife Lauren, co-founded in 2002. Gabriel also sits on the steering committee for the Coalition for a Sustainable Africa; a consensus-based network of NGO’s all dedicated to sustainable development projects on the ground in Africa.
Sara believes that the passion behind the people that contribute to our program stems from a satisfaction that they are investing into youth, that they see what they are doing is bigger than themselves and they contributing to the environment at the same time.
I was also interested in the ethnic backgrounds of The Green Ambassadors.
She explained they started with inner city children, but understand and promote that there is one world and we are the human race working together to create a planet where everyone can live. Therefore we have ‘Youth Summit’ where youth crossing gender, race, and social barriers and are collaborating as youth across the city and nation to inspire, create, and share solutions for a healthy planet."
“We are tired of the myths about inner-city kids and their apathy towards the environment!” What is unique about our Los Angeles Youth Leadership Clinic is that it is youth-planned, youth- driven and youth-motivated. Youth are driven to improve their local environment."
Spelled out clearly on their website; “Young adults are creating their own stewardship model by teaching each other, pooling their resources, strengthening their community vision and inspiring people to change. Youth need to see that they are an influential and vital part of the community. The youth of Los Angeles are the next generation of leaders. If they are not included in the community when they are young, they may not stay in the community to be the leaders of the future. These thoughts were recently expressed by Sabina Ibarra, a youth participant in the leadership clinic, Green Ambassadors, and a student at Environmental Charter High School in Lawndale, CA."
In asking how Green Ambassadors improved their your local community? Sara reflects how they have demonstrated training for bio-diesel technology, community battery recycling, training local elementary schools on how to recycle plastics, to be a first in promoting city council ‘ban plastic in our community’, Awareness Day, and Earth Day to name just a few. They also are responsible for Southern California Disposal to switch their fleets of dirty diesel to run on clean burning biodiesel.
"Our strategy through all of our programs is to provide experiences for the Green Ambassadors to acquire knowledge and develop the skills that will not only help them in this program, but also provide them with real-world skills for personal, academic, and professional success. The students take the issue, research and develop solutions, and socially market the solution to their peers and the community at-large."
The Future
They have not stopped there. Green Adventures are cross cultural global exchanges. After a successful field experience to Brazil in April 2007 with Earthwatch Education, and educating the schools there, they have taken on a new horizon: Columbia. They are currently holding a fundraiser, ‘Support 10 students with the Green Adventure Program’ as they create Green Ambassador Leaders in Medellin, Columbia. Medellin has created several programs that aim to bring peace and environmental action through education. To find out more contact Sandra Valencia sandra_valencia@echonline.org or Sara Laimon at 310.214.3400 ext 118. Visit
(http://www.greenambassadors.org/initiatives.php#Green_Mentors)
They believe that ‘ youth identify an issue, develop a solution, act to bring about the solution, and educate others. The most important part is that young people are becoming empowered to make a difference and are, in turn, empowering other young people. This leads to a community that has youth that are knowledge, active, and know how to make a difference.’
Sara Laimon explained what their Mobile Embassy will incorporate. It will feature a multi-media station and hands-on learning stations on the following topics; plastics, bio-diesel, bio-plastic, solar power, and organic foods. It will be used as the showcase for Green Ambassador to meet, share, and exemplify solutions for our Global Climate Crisis.
With expert assistance from Algalita Marine Research Foundation, Bring Your Own, and a grant from Patagonia, the Ambassadors will transform a trailer into a Green Mobile Embassy (GME), a vessel housing models of green solutions. The Mobile Embassy will serve to teach students from throughout the region about the issues and how they can help to alleviate the environmental problems." As their site reflects. Jack Assadourian, owner of the Ha-Ha Cafe Comedy Club in North Hollywood (www.hahacafe.com) also donated two school buses that will be converted into biodiesel transportation for the Green Ambassadors.
Green Mentors
"The Green Ambassadors program also identifies and enlists ‘Green Mentors’ who are of college age or above. These Mentors work with the Green Ambassadors to support them in their learning of environmental issues as well as solutions to these issues. Green mentors are benefited by developing their interpersonal skills (empowerment, networking, and enrollment), knowledge (environmental and scientific), and ecological values (biodiversity and interconnectedness). Green Mentors assist the Green Ambassadors to focus on specific issues where students can create social awareness and measurable change."
If you are a teacher, administrator, parent or student, and want to be apart of Green Ambassadors go to: www.greenambassadors.org. You can contact Sandra Valencia (sandra_valencia@echonline.org) or Sarah Laimon at 310.214.3400 ext 118. Green Ambassadors 16314 Grevillea Ave, Lawndale, CA 902160 PHONE: 310.940.1626
There are several ways you can participate and make a difference in your school, community and planet. You can also go to the ‘Green Coalition’, a
"Green Youth Coalition connects environmental clubs across Southern California via www.becoolbegree.com to create a youth movement."
Green Ambassadors uses the EARTH CHARTER PRINCIPLES
(www.earthcharterinaction.org)
You can learn more about Green Ambassadors and their Mission Statement: www.greenambassadors.org
They have communities and businesses reaching out to be apart of this unique program. ExitSigns.com environmentally friendly exit signs are a zero energy emissions, zero maintenance, and is zero damage to the environment. Fundraising Green, The Coffee Bean, California Credit Union, 41Pounds.org, Fred Leeds Properties, Smokey’s Muskie Shop, Marc Laimon Jiu Jitsu, Steaz, Peak Organic brewing company, the Sustainable Group, Southern California Disposal, Seven-Star green event experts, Get Hip Get Green, Cuningham Group, Cater Green zero waste solutions, Biodiesel America, Luis Moro Productions and Algalita Marine Research Foundation are a few of the sponsors that have jumped on board. The Official Fundraising Partner of Green Ambassadors are; My Green Spark, Fundraising Green.
The Green Ambassadors left me with an experience of what is right with the world. No matter what your opinions are on the environment, the fact remains they are cutting back on waste. These students, instead of worrying about the plights of inner city school problems, such as gang violence; they are creating an environment for themselves today, for their future that will effect generations to come. Not only are they making a difference for their school, families, and communities, but they are spreading the technology on HOW to be green to schools across the city, states, and now countries.
I left the school inspired, and honored that these incredible teenagers are working on change for my future, and my children’s future.
Let’s start off 2008 powerfully, and create "Green Ambassadors" for all communities inspiring hope for a just, sustainable and peaceful planet.
By: Bobbi Miller-Moro
About the Author:
Sara Laimon, the magnetic Founder of Green Ambassadors gave me a tour of their new facilities of ECHS and Green Ambassadors, while still in the remodeling and upgrading phase. As the school is moving out of boxes, and organizing their new classrooms she explained the sustainable plans in store for this unique Environmental Charter High School. There is an air of excitement. As I peaked into the classrooms, students were busy with various projects. These students know they are making a difference in our world for generations to come. The Green Ambassador Program is comprised of an elective class taught throughout schools in Los Angeles area, Youth Summits, Green Mobile Embassy, Green Adventures and supported by Green Mentors.
This groundbreaking organization is beginning to explode. The green element of the program is so strong that even during our interview she was selling organic soda to students from her office. In fact we were surrounded by green solutions, hangers made from wheat, recycled binders made from paper, Forest Certified pencils, even donated environmentally friendly, bio-degradable diapers are stacked on her desk in the office she shares with her green partners. “This program is created to breakdown our cultural social paradigms and educate all. Especially the communities that suffer the most from environmental injustices, the inner city, who normally miss the green education on how to advocate for a clean, healthy environment.” Laimon.
Green Ambassadors, a project of Environmental Charter High School, is an environmental education program that empowers youth to become agents of change in their communities and the world. The goals of the program include: Educating and motivating youth, inspiring them to set a "Green" example through open idea exchange and social action; To create a learning environment that will inspire new thought, helping young people to develop confidence in themselves and their future; To network communities, share ideas and empower local and global environmental solutions; To create "Green Ambassadors" for local communities and the world, inspiring hope within us all for a just, sustainable and peaceful planet.
I asked Sara what’s the future you see for the Green Ambassadors?
With certainty she said, "For all schools to have Green Ambassadors around the world. Who are agents of change and the voice of the environment."
The Green Ambassador elective class at Environmental Charter High School is a required course for every student to take in their 10th grade year where students receive college credit from Los Angeles Trade Technical College. The Green Ambassadors have already been accomplishing their mission through their trainings in initiatives. These initiatives are implemented by youth who are committed to fulfilling Green Ambassadors mission, vision, values, and goals. The Green Ambassador program provides a different way of learning for youth who want to contribute to this planet.
They have been trained in the One Billion Bulbs Youth empowering youth to imagine the possibilities. With a goal of mobilizing the world to replace one billion standard incandescent light bulbs with energy-efficient compact fluorescent (CFL) light bulbs. Plastics are Forever is another initiative where youth empowering youth to create cleaner oceans by banning plastic bags and Styrofoam (polystyrene) in Los Angeles with Algalita Marine Research Foundation, Bring Your Own, Heal the Bay and other non-profits. Green Ambassadors are trained in Biofuels, Organics, Biodiversity, Remediation of our soil, and constructing buildings and structures out of earth friendly materials.
‘Floatation Machine’ made of all recycled products
"Sara Laimon has been a positive light within the sustainability movement for the past ten years. During her career as a classroom teacher, she has guided classes and school groups to create cob benches, convert a diesel car to run on veggie oil, create bio-diesel, and eat organic. Sara has traveled to Brazil, Colombia, Argentina, Haiti, Greece, and Galapagos finding, sharing, and learning solutions. She is devoting her life to creating and nurturing eco-activists to be empowered to share the solutions of hope."
Green Ambassadors currently has two teachers. They are unique in that they are well versed in Environmental Studies. "They approached me with a huge desire for a huge change." Sara shared with me. The names of these incredible teachers are Sandra Valencia who is originally from Colombia, she has taught High School Spanish for the past five years at ECHS and Dorsey High School (LAUSD). She has been an environmental activist for the past five years working with the Los Angeles Biodiesel Coalition, Dorsey High School’s club Global Warriors. Gabriel Azenna, who’s statement is "Green’ isn’t merely a color… but it’s a state of mind". He adheres to a pragmatic acceptance that human beings may continue to prosper, but only by recognizing and embracing our integral duty as planetary stewards. Beyond the classroom, Gabriel is the Environmental Education Director for Next Aid, a non-profit organization his wife Lauren, co-founded in 2002. Gabriel also sits on the steering committee for the Coalition for a Sustainable Africa; a consensus-based network of NGO’s all dedicated to sustainable development projects on the ground in Africa.
Sara believes that the passion behind the people that contribute to our program stems from a satisfaction that they are investing into youth, that they see what they are doing is bigger than themselves and they contributing to the environment at the same time.
I was also interested in the ethnic backgrounds of The Green Ambassadors.
She explained they started with inner city children, but understand and promote that there is one world and we are the human race working together to create a planet where everyone can live. Therefore we have ‘Youth Summit’ where youth crossing gender, race, and social barriers and are collaborating as youth across the city and nation to inspire, create, and share solutions for a healthy planet."
“We are tired of the myths about inner-city kids and their apathy towards the environment!” What is unique about our Los Angeles Youth Leadership Clinic is that it is youth-planned, youth- driven and youth-motivated. Youth are driven to improve their local environment."
Spelled out clearly on their website; “Young adults are creating their own stewardship model by teaching each other, pooling their resources, strengthening their community vision and inspiring people to change. Youth need to see that they are an influential and vital part of the community. The youth of Los Angeles are the next generation of leaders. If they are not included in the community when they are young, they may not stay in the community to be the leaders of the future. These thoughts were recently expressed by Sabina Ibarra, a youth participant in the leadership clinic, Green Ambassadors, and a student at Environmental Charter High School in Lawndale, CA."
In asking how Green Ambassadors improved their your local community? Sara reflects how they have demonstrated training for bio-diesel technology, community battery recycling, training local elementary schools on how to recycle plastics, to be a first in promoting city council ‘ban plastic in our community’, Awareness Day, and Earth Day to name just a few. They also are responsible for Southern California Disposal to switch their fleets of dirty diesel to run on clean burning biodiesel.
"Our strategy through all of our programs is to provide experiences for the Green Ambassadors to acquire knowledge and develop the skills that will not only help them in this program, but also provide them with real-world skills for personal, academic, and professional success. The students take the issue, research and develop solutions, and socially market the solution to their peers and the community at-large."
The Future
They have not stopped there. Green Adventures are cross cultural global exchanges. After a successful field experience to Brazil in April 2007 with Earthwatch Education, and educating the schools there, they have taken on a new horizon: Columbia. They are currently holding a fundraiser, ‘Support 10 students with the Green Adventure Program’ as they create Green Ambassador Leaders in Medellin, Columbia. Medellin has created several programs that aim to bring peace and environmental action through education. To find out more contact Sandra Valencia sandra_valencia@echonline.org or Sara Laimon at 310.214.3400 ext 118. Visit
(http://www.greenambassadors.org/initiatives.php#Green_Mentors)
They believe that ‘ youth identify an issue, develop a solution, act to bring about the solution, and educate others. The most important part is that young people are becoming empowered to make a difference and are, in turn, empowering other young people. This leads to a community that has youth that are knowledge, active, and know how to make a difference.’
Sara Laimon explained what their Mobile Embassy will incorporate. It will feature a multi-media station and hands-on learning stations on the following topics; plastics, bio-diesel, bio-plastic, solar power, and organic foods. It will be used as the showcase for Green Ambassador to meet, share, and exemplify solutions for our Global Climate Crisis.
With expert assistance from Algalita Marine Research Foundation, Bring Your Own, and a grant from Patagonia, the Ambassadors will transform a trailer into a Green Mobile Embassy (GME), a vessel housing models of green solutions. The Mobile Embassy will serve to teach students from throughout the region about the issues and how they can help to alleviate the environmental problems." As their site reflects. Jack Assadourian, owner of the Ha-Ha Cafe Comedy Club in North Hollywood (www.hahacafe.com) also donated two school buses that will be converted into biodiesel transportation for the Green Ambassadors.
Green Mentors
"The Green Ambassadors program also identifies and enlists ‘Green Mentors’ who are of college age or above. These Mentors work with the Green Ambassadors to support them in their learning of environmental issues as well as solutions to these issues. Green mentors are benefited by developing their interpersonal skills (empowerment, networking, and enrollment), knowledge (environmental and scientific), and ecological values (biodiversity and interconnectedness). Green Mentors assist the Green Ambassadors to focus on specific issues where students can create social awareness and measurable change."
If you are a teacher, administrator, parent or student, and want to be apart of Green Ambassadors go to: www.greenambassadors.org. You can contact Sandra Valencia (sandra_valencia@echonline.org) or Sarah Laimon at 310.214.3400 ext 118. Green Ambassadors 16314 Grevillea Ave, Lawndale, CA 902160 PHONE: 310.940.1626
There are several ways you can participate and make a difference in your school, community and planet. You can also go to the ‘Green Coalition’, a
"Green Youth Coalition connects environmental clubs across Southern California via www.becoolbegree.com to create a youth movement."
Green Ambassadors uses the EARTH CHARTER PRINCIPLES
(www.earthcharterinaction.org)
You can learn more about Green Ambassadors and their Mission Statement: www.greenambassadors.org
They have communities and businesses reaching out to be apart of this unique program. ExitSigns.com environmentally friendly exit signs are a zero energy emissions, zero maintenance, and is zero damage to the environment. Fundraising Green, The Coffee Bean, California Credit Union, 41Pounds.org, Fred Leeds Properties, Smokey’s Muskie Shop, Marc Laimon Jiu Jitsu, Steaz, Peak Organic brewing company, the Sustainable Group, Southern California Disposal, Seven-Star green event experts, Get Hip Get Green, Cuningham Group, Cater Green zero waste solutions, Biodiesel America, Luis Moro Productions and Algalita Marine Research Foundation are a few of the sponsors that have jumped on board. The Official Fundraising Partner of Green Ambassadors are; My Green Spark, Fundraising Green.
The Green Ambassadors left me with an experience of what is right with the world. No matter what your opinions are on the environment, the fact remains they are cutting back on waste. These students, instead of worrying about the plights of inner city school problems, such as gang violence; they are creating an environment for themselves today, for their future that will effect generations to come. Not only are they making a difference for their school, families, and communities, but they are spreading the technology on HOW to be green to schools across the city, states, and now countries.
I left the school inspired, and honored that these incredible teenagers are working on change for my future, and my children’s future.
Let’s start off 2008 powerfully, and create "Green Ambassadors" for all communities inspiring hope for a just, sustainable and peaceful planet.
By: Bobbi Miller-Moro
About the Author:
Bobbi Miller-Moro writes on family issues and the environment. She is a filmmaker, artist, and mother of five. Raising her children with her husband in Los Angeles. You can learn more about her at her personal blog store at ThankGodForMommy.com and www.powerfulmothers.wordpress.com
Oct
16
Sumatran Coffee a Truly Unique Bean
Filed Under 1735 | Leave a Comment
Coffee is an important part of the Sumatran culture and the region is famous for producing some of the most unique and complex coffee’s in the world. In general Sumatra coffee tends not to be sold by region like many other countries but instead guide lines are used, and these guide lines are based around the picking preparation and processing of the beans. There are a number of different brand available, beans that are grown in the Sumatran west is usually known as “Gayo Mountain” and this coffee tends to be sweeter than many of the other varities, but easily the most common and well loved of Sumatran coffee is Manheling. This coffee is produced just inland from the south coast and has taken it’s name from Indonesian people that were once responsible for the production of that coffee
Sumatran Mandheling coffee is well regarded as the finest coffee produced in Sumatra and there are number of factors that have contributed to this, the plants are grown in vastly rich volcanic soil which are situated on the slopes of extinct volcanoes. These high slopes, the rich soil and the warm climate all contribute to make Mandheling coffee a truly unique brew with a distinct flavour. When you are searching for a Sumatran coffee try and find green coffee beans if possible as this will allow you to roast your own giving you the freshest cup you’ll ever had.
There are many unique characteristics that help to make Mandheling coffee one of the finest in the world. Some may say even unorthodox. The beans are often dried using moisture-interrupted stages, which leads the beans to develop many complex and unusually flavours, many experts cite these traits as being similar to fermented fruit and even hints of must and mildew.
Please do not be deceived or put off by this, these are the factors that make Sumatran coffee so unique and because of this combination of flavours that are already pleasant in the green beans themselves, when roasted the flavours are developed fully and this leads to one of the richest smoothest and complex coffees that is available anywhere today.
The acidity is barely noticeable and teh body can be so heavy it is almost syrupy
Mandheling coffee is an experience of pure Indonesian luxury – the finest concentrated flavours and most complex tastes. It is highly sought after all over the world – and rightly so!
By: Neil Jones
About the Author:
Sumatran Mandheling coffee is well regarded as the finest coffee produced in Sumatra and there are number of factors that have contributed to this, the plants are grown in vastly rich volcanic soil which are situated on the slopes of extinct volcanoes. These high slopes, the rich soil and the warm climate all contribute to make Mandheling coffee a truly unique brew with a distinct flavour. When you are searching for a Sumatran coffee try and find green coffee beans if possible as this will allow you to roast your own giving you the freshest cup you’ll ever had.
There are many unique characteristics that help to make Mandheling coffee one of the finest in the world. Some may say even unorthodox. The beans are often dried using moisture-interrupted stages, which leads the beans to develop many complex and unusually flavours, many experts cite these traits as being similar to fermented fruit and even hints of must and mildew.
Please do not be deceived or put off by this, these are the factors that make Sumatran coffee so unique and because of this combination of flavours that are already pleasant in the green beans themselves, when roasted the flavours are developed fully and this leads to one of the richest smoothest and complex coffees that is available anywhere today.
The acidity is barely noticeable and teh body can be so heavy it is almost syrupy
Mandheling coffee is an experience of pure Indonesian luxury – the finest concentrated flavours and most complex tastes. It is highly sought after all over the world – and rightly so!
By: Neil Jones
About the Author:
With so many varieties of coffee available from around the world, it’s hard to choose the right coffee for you, Sumatra Coffee will guarantee the perfect cup of coffee, and for the freshest cup of coffee find out how to roast green coffee beans at home
Oct
14
Is it really the luck of the Irish or do they just recognize the importance of foods high in fiber? There really is no luck involved. It’s an awareness of the overall health benefits of a high fiber diet. The most typical dish common to all of our March menus is corned beef and cabbage. Delicious, but enjoy it with a sprinkling of advice from Fiberlady. With all due respect to Irish culture and tradition, Fiberlady must stay true to her mission.
Opt for high fiber foods. St. Patrick’s Day is the ideal time to offer all of those green foods that you know are so beneficial to all of the leprechauns in your life. Besides the obvious green lettuce, share some broccoli, Swiss chard, spinach, green beans, asparagus and green peas. Not only are these green foods enormously healthy, many of them help curb heart disease, lower cholesterol and inhibit some cancers.
Heart disease is the leading factor of death for American men and women today. To add salt to the wound, more than 95 million Americans have high cholesterol, a major contributor to heart disease.
Saturated fats are the major culprit in raising blood cholesterol. Those who have high cholesterol levels should be watching their entire diet, not just the meat portion. Reducing the amount of fatty foods is as important as choosing leaner cuts of red meat when trying to lower cholesterol. Protect yourself and those you love against heart disease and high cholesterol by eating more fruits and vegetables.
Exercising regularly, maintaining a normal body weight, choosing unsaturated fats and including 20-35 grams of high fiber in your daily diet will all contribute to a healthier you, whether you are Irish or not so Irish.
Preparing the ever popular corned beef supper this season can be less damaging to the arteries if you reduce your portion of fatty corned beef. No need to eliminate it entirely, just include more accompaniments such as fiber-rich cabbage and turnips. Whole grain Irish soda bread can be served to round out a high fiber menu for the St. Patrick’s meal.
Fiberlady wonders how many grams of fiber there are in a four leaf clover. No matter. It’s the quest to find that four leaf clover that makes all of the difference. If you find one, enjoy the promise of good luck and continue the quest for good health.
Corned Beef with Cabbage and Boiled Vegetables Makes 6 servings
Ingredients:
1¼ pounds corned beef, trimmed of all visible fat 1 small head green cabbage, cored and cut into 6 wedges 18 baby carrots 6 small purple-top turnips, peeled and halved 1 cup pearl onions or small pickling onions 6 small red potatoes, scrubbed and left whole
Preparation:
1. Bring the corned beef and enough water to cover to a boil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven. Reduce the heat and simmer, partially covered, until almost tender, about 1½ hours.
2. Add the cabbage, carrots, turnips, onions, and potatoes to the pan; return to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, partially covered, until the vegetables and corned beef are fork tender, about 45 minutes.
3. Transfer the corned beef to a platter and carve into slices. Lift the vegetables from the broth with a slotted spoon and serve with the corned beef.
Per serving (1/6 of dinner): Calories: 320; Total Fat: 12 grams; Fiber: 7 grams
Irish Brown Soda Bread 12 Servings
Ingredients:
4 cups whole wheat flour 1 cup bread flour 1/3 cup rolled oats 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 2 1/2 cups buttermilk
Preparation:
1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Lightly grease two baking sheets.
2. In a large bowl, stir together whole wheat flour, white flour, rolled oats, baking soda and salt. Gently mix in the buttermilk until a soft dough is formed. Knead very lightly. Divide dough into 4 pieces; form into rounded flat loaves. Mark each loaf with an ‘X’ and place on prepared baking sheets. 3. Bake in preheated oven until golden brown, about 30 to 45 minutes.
Per serving: Calories: 206; Total Fat: 1.5 grams; Fiber: 5.4 grams
By: Stephanie Shank
About the Author:
Opt for high fiber foods. St. Patrick’s Day is the ideal time to offer all of those green foods that you know are so beneficial to all of the leprechauns in your life. Besides the obvious green lettuce, share some broccoli, Swiss chard, spinach, green beans, asparagus and green peas. Not only are these green foods enormously healthy, many of them help curb heart disease, lower cholesterol and inhibit some cancers.
Heart disease is the leading factor of death for American men and women today. To add salt to the wound, more than 95 million Americans have high cholesterol, a major contributor to heart disease.
Saturated fats are the major culprit in raising blood cholesterol. Those who have high cholesterol levels should be watching their entire diet, not just the meat portion. Reducing the amount of fatty foods is as important as choosing leaner cuts of red meat when trying to lower cholesterol. Protect yourself and those you love against heart disease and high cholesterol by eating more fruits and vegetables.
Exercising regularly, maintaining a normal body weight, choosing unsaturated fats and including 20-35 grams of high fiber in your daily diet will all contribute to a healthier you, whether you are Irish or not so Irish.
Preparing the ever popular corned beef supper this season can be less damaging to the arteries if you reduce your portion of fatty corned beef. No need to eliminate it entirely, just include more accompaniments such as fiber-rich cabbage and turnips. Whole grain Irish soda bread can be served to round out a high fiber menu for the St. Patrick’s meal.
Fiberlady wonders how many grams of fiber there are in a four leaf clover. No matter. It’s the quest to find that four leaf clover that makes all of the difference. If you find one, enjoy the promise of good luck and continue the quest for good health.
Corned Beef with Cabbage and Boiled Vegetables Makes 6 servings
Ingredients:
1¼ pounds corned beef, trimmed of all visible fat 1 small head green cabbage, cored and cut into 6 wedges 18 baby carrots 6 small purple-top turnips, peeled and halved 1 cup pearl onions or small pickling onions 6 small red potatoes, scrubbed and left whole
Preparation:
1. Bring the corned beef and enough water to cover to a boil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven. Reduce the heat and simmer, partially covered, until almost tender, about 1½ hours.
2. Add the cabbage, carrots, turnips, onions, and potatoes to the pan; return to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, partially covered, until the vegetables and corned beef are fork tender, about 45 minutes.
3. Transfer the corned beef to a platter and carve into slices. Lift the vegetables from the broth with a slotted spoon and serve with the corned beef.
Per serving (1/6 of dinner): Calories: 320; Total Fat: 12 grams; Fiber: 7 grams
Irish Brown Soda Bread 12 Servings
Ingredients:
4 cups whole wheat flour 1 cup bread flour 1/3 cup rolled oats 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon salt 2 1/2 cups buttermilk
Preparation:
1. Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Lightly grease two baking sheets.
2. In a large bowl, stir together whole wheat flour, white flour, rolled oats, baking soda and salt. Gently mix in the buttermilk until a soft dough is formed. Knead very lightly. Divide dough into 4 pieces; form into rounded flat loaves. Mark each loaf with an ‘X’ and place on prepared baking sheets. 3. Bake in preheated oven until golden brown, about 30 to 45 minutes.
Per serving: Calories: 206; Total Fat: 1.5 grams; Fiber: 5.4 grams
By: Stephanie Shank
About the Author:
Stephanie Shank aka Fiberlady has studied nutrition for many healthy years which prompted her commitment to a high fiber lifestyle and the development of her informative website High Fiber Health.
Oct
13
Easy Soup Recipes–key to a Healthy Long Life
Filed Under 1935 | Leave a Comment
Not everyone among us is a fitness freak. At young age you might not have paid attention to what mom used to say; that is - having healthy and nutritious food. For years you have consumed large quantity of burger, pizzas and colas. You found it heard to resist the temptation of ice creams, French fries and doughnuts. But if you are to join the forty-club it’s time you should start eating healthy. Try some healthy diet recipes for yourself and for your family as well. In fact a healthy mother is the pillar of a happy and healthy family.
Many of us bear a wrong notion about health food. We think that health food is always minus the taste. But that is not the case with our healthy recipes that are available on websites and online magazines related to food and recipes. You can include in your daily diet some easy to cook soups that are both healthy and delicious. These easy recipes allow you to customize the soups accordingly with seasonal ingredients. Even if cooking is not what you really like these soups are some of the easiest meals to cook at home.
Tomato Soup
If you are tired of having the same old tomato soup everyday then do some experiments with it to please the entire family.
Heat the soup with 1/4th tea spoon of garlic powder and Italian seasoning each. Then add previously cooked meatballs in the soup.
Slit hero rolls and stuff the meatballs within. Top it with grated cheese. Broil it till the cheese melts. Or you can bring Italian flavor to American tomato soup by adding melted cheese tortellini to it. Finally serve the soup with grated Romano cheese sprinkled on it. And see the reaction of the people at the dinner table!
Chicken Soup
We all know that chicken soups are part of a healthy diet. Make ordinary chicken soup tastier with its Mexican variation.
Cook a basic ‘all-you-can-eat’ soup first. In a nonstick saucepan pour some water and add pieced carrots, onion, celery and garlic.
Cook it for 8 to 10 minutes until the vegetables softens. Then add tomatoes with its sides slit open along with chopped cabbages and green beans. Pour more water and broth and add salt and pepper for taste.
Cover the saucepan and let it boil. When all the vegetables turn soft your soup is ready to put in boneless chicken chunks to it.
Add some cumin seeds and corns and heat the soup to boil again. When chicken becomes tender simmer it for few minutes with crumbled tortilla chips. Finally serve with sprinkled cilantro and lime juice on it.
Vegetable Soup
Vegetables are low in calories and rich in vitamins. To get fresh and supple skin and flat abs vegetables should be essential part of your diet. Your must have been presenting salads and veg-soups on the dinner table for long and fed-up that your kids do not even want to taste them anymore. Try this vegetable soup that is tasty, easy to cook, cost effective and at the same time rich in nutrition values. To make this soup you only need seasonal vegetables and lentils. Regular vegetables will also do.
Chop vegetables such as cauliflower carrots and broccoli. Chop some fresh tomatoes finely and put it aside for later use.
Crush some green cardamom, cinnamon and clove together to create a spice mixture. Now pour the lentils into water and let it boil for 5 minutes. After 5-6 minutes add the chopped vegetables into it along with pinch of salt, black pepper and spice mix.
Boil the whole mixture for about 30 minutes. Stir it well so that the vegetables blend well. After 30 minutes add the chopped tomatoes in it and simmer for few minutes more. Finally, our appetizing Tomato-Vegetable soup is ready to serve.
Very easy, isn’t it?
So, spice up your menu with some easy healthy recipes. Switch to a healthy diet today because to think healthy you need to eat healthy.
By: Emily S. Johnson
About the Author:
Many of us bear a wrong notion about health food. We think that health food is always minus the taste. But that is not the case with our healthy recipes that are available on websites and online magazines related to food and recipes. You can include in your daily diet some easy to cook soups that are both healthy and delicious. These easy recipes allow you to customize the soups accordingly with seasonal ingredients. Even if cooking is not what you really like these soups are some of the easiest meals to cook at home.
Tomato Soup
If you are tired of having the same old tomato soup everyday then do some experiments with it to please the entire family.
Heat the soup with 1/4th tea spoon of garlic powder and Italian seasoning each. Then add previously cooked meatballs in the soup.
Slit hero rolls and stuff the meatballs within. Top it with grated cheese. Broil it till the cheese melts. Or you can bring Italian flavor to American tomato soup by adding melted cheese tortellini to it. Finally serve the soup with grated Romano cheese sprinkled on it. And see the reaction of the people at the dinner table!
Chicken Soup
We all know that chicken soups are part of a healthy diet. Make ordinary chicken soup tastier with its Mexican variation.
Cook a basic ‘all-you-can-eat’ soup first. In a nonstick saucepan pour some water and add pieced carrots, onion, celery and garlic.
Cook it for 8 to 10 minutes until the vegetables softens. Then add tomatoes with its sides slit open along with chopped cabbages and green beans. Pour more water and broth and add salt and pepper for taste.
Cover the saucepan and let it boil. When all the vegetables turn soft your soup is ready to put in boneless chicken chunks to it.
Add some cumin seeds and corns and heat the soup to boil again. When chicken becomes tender simmer it for few minutes with crumbled tortilla chips. Finally serve with sprinkled cilantro and lime juice on it.
Vegetable Soup
Vegetables are low in calories and rich in vitamins. To get fresh and supple skin and flat abs vegetables should be essential part of your diet. Your must have been presenting salads and veg-soups on the dinner table for long and fed-up that your kids do not even want to taste them anymore. Try this vegetable soup that is tasty, easy to cook, cost effective and at the same time rich in nutrition values. To make this soup you only need seasonal vegetables and lentils. Regular vegetables will also do.
Chop vegetables such as cauliflower carrots and broccoli. Chop some fresh tomatoes finely and put it aside for later use.
Crush some green cardamom, cinnamon and clove together to create a spice mixture. Now pour the lentils into water and let it boil for 5 minutes. After 5-6 minutes add the chopped vegetables into it along with pinch of salt, black pepper and spice mix.
Boil the whole mixture for about 30 minutes. Stir it well so that the vegetables blend well. After 30 minutes add the chopped tomatoes in it and simmer for few minutes more. Finally, our appetizing Tomato-Vegetable soup is ready to serve.
Very easy, isn’t it?
So, spice up your menu with some easy healthy recipes. Switch to a healthy diet today because to think healthy you need to eat healthy.
By: Emily S. Johnson
About the Author:
Emily S. Johnson is a self-published author and food critic. She writes articles on healthy diet and recipes for you. For more easy recipes, she recommends you to visit: http://www.womansday.com/Articles/Topic/easy_recipes.html
Oct
8
Quick and Easy Dinner Recipes: Deviled Steaks and Green Bean Potato Salad
Filed Under 1675 | Leave a Comment
Need a quick and easy dinner? How about steaks, potatoes and green beans? You can have this meal on the table in no time and it’s delicious, too. Easy Cookin’ Deviled Steaks are just that. You have steaks and gravy in minutes. The green beans and potatoes are combined into a Green Bean Potato Salad. A delicious and quick meal especially for you!
EASY COOKIN’ DEVILED STEAKS
1 envelope (3/4-oz) brown gravy mix
2 tbsp prepared horseradish
1 can (4-oz) sliced mushrooms, drained
4 (5-oz each) beef tenderloin steaks
1/4 cup beef broth or red wine
Prepare gravy according the the package instructions. Add the horseradish and mushrooms to the gravy and mix well. Keep warm.
Heat a large heavy nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add steaks to the skillet and cook for 3 minutes on each side (or longer for well done). Remove steaks from the skillet and keep warm.
Add the broth or wine to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly for a minute to deglaze the pan. Pour the juices into the gravy and mix well. Serve the gravy with the steaks.
GREEN BEAN POTATO SALAD
1 lb small red skin potatoes
1 lb fresh green beans
1/4 large red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup sliced green onions
1 cup sour cream
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp white wine vinegar
salt and pepper to taste
1/2 tsp paprika, for garnish
Wash and quarter the potatoes; cook in a large pot of salted water until tender. Drain potatoes and cool to room temperature.
Blanche the green beans in boiling water for 4 to 5 minutes until crisp tender. Place in a colander and run cold water over beans to stop the cooking and preserve the dark green color. Set aside to drain well.
In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, red onion, green onion and green beans. In a separate bowl, blend together the sour cream, mustard, mayonnaise, and vinegar; season with the salt and pepper. Pour mixture over the vegetable mixture and toss gently to combine. Place salad in a bowl and garnish with paprika.
Enjoy!
By: Linda Wilson
About the Author:
EASY COOKIN’ DEVILED STEAKS
1 envelope (3/4-oz) brown gravy mix
2 tbsp prepared horseradish
1 can (4-oz) sliced mushrooms, drained
4 (5-oz each) beef tenderloin steaks
1/4 cup beef broth or red wine
Prepare gravy according the the package instructions. Add the horseradish and mushrooms to the gravy and mix well. Keep warm.
Heat a large heavy nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add steaks to the skillet and cook for 3 minutes on each side (or longer for well done). Remove steaks from the skillet and keep warm.
Add the broth or wine to the skillet and cook, stirring constantly for a minute to deglaze the pan. Pour the juices into the gravy and mix well. Serve the gravy with the steaks.
GREEN BEAN POTATO SALAD
1 lb small red skin potatoes
1 lb fresh green beans
1/4 large red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup sliced green onions
1 cup sour cream
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
1/4 cup mayonnaise
2 tbsp white wine vinegar
salt and pepper to taste
1/2 tsp paprika, for garnish
Wash and quarter the potatoes; cook in a large pot of salted water until tender. Drain potatoes and cool to room temperature.
Blanche the green beans in boiling water for 4 to 5 minutes until crisp tender. Place in a colander and run cold water over beans to stop the cooking and preserve the dark green color. Set aside to drain well.
In a large bowl, combine the potatoes, red onion, green onion and green beans. In a separate bowl, blend together the sour cream, mustard, mayonnaise, and vinegar; season with the salt and pepper. Pour mixture over the vegetable mixture and toss gently to combine. Place salad in a bowl and garnish with paprika.
Enjoy!
By: Linda Wilson
About the Author:
For more of my quick and easy recipes visit my blog at http://grandmasquickfixrecipes.blogspot.com
Oct
6
Superfoods are a hot topic today. But just what exactly are they? And which ones should we include in our diet—reds or greens?
Superfoods are a category of foods that contain a high concentration of nutrition. It is therefore believed that including these in our daily diet may promote general health and well-being. Superfoods are delightful sources of antioxidants. Antioxidants are believed to assist the body in fighting cellular damage by neutralizing free radical damage. Superfoods are also low in calories, high in fiber content and therefore, make excellent fillers for those on a diet.
Nutrition experts recommend that you fill your plate with a rainbow diet—an assortment of different colored foods to obtain a variety of nutrition. In particular, we should include both red and green superfoods. Here’s why:
Green Superfoods
Green superfoods have the least calories, are high in fiber and contain compounds that nutritionally assist your body in burning fat. They contain a high percentage of condensed nutrition—vitamins, minerals, proteins and healthy bacteria. All of these promote health, aid digestion and support detoxification. Green superfoods provide a variety of phytochemicals such as beta-carotene, zeaxanthin and lutein. Beta-carotene helps to promotes cell protection. Zeaxanthin and lutein nutritionally serve our body in protecting our eyes from age-related problems.
Green superfoods contain chlorophyll. This is the pigment that imparts plants their green color. Chlorophyll is similar in structure to the molecular structure of human blood. Chlorophyll helps to increase hemoglobin production, resulting in more oxygenated blood. Oxygen is necessary for cells to survive and replicate.
Some of the important, but least talked about, green superfoods are:
Wheat grass. This is sprouted wheat seeds. It does not contain gluten or other allergens so is specially suited for allergy-sensitive individuals. It contains vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids and chlorophyll. It is said to aid digestion, promote general health, and detoxify the body of heavy metals.
Barley grass. This green superfood has five times more iron content than spinach. It contains more calcium than cow’s milk (eleven times more) and contains seven times more Vitamin C than orange juice.
Spirulina.1 This is a micro-algae and consists of sixty percent protein! It contains a whole spectrum of B vitamins and minerals, including antioxidants, enzymes and amino acids.
Chlorella.1 Chlorella is a fresh water algae and contains a complete protein profile, higher in protein content than beef or soybeans. It also contains vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, enzymes and amino acids.
Green leafy vegetables.
Spinach, mustard sprouts, romaine lettuce, bell peppers, parsley, watercress, kale, broccoli—all these vegetables are readily available and highly nutritious.
Nutrition experts recommend that you eat at least one to two servings a day of these vegetables. Population studies show that those who do run a lower risk of heart disease and perhaps other critical illnesses.
Red Superfoods
Red superfoods are rich in phytochemicals such as lycopene and anthocyanins. Lycopene, being a strong antioxidant, effectively help your body neutralize free radicals, nutritionally assisting blood vessels and heart function.
Some of the best red superfoods are said to have many health benefits:
Pomegranates. They are known to have anti-inflammatory properties which may aid to relieve the inflammation in arthritis. Pomegranates are also known to assist the body to maintain sugar levels in diabetics.
Tomatoes.2 Tomatoes are a good source of lycopene, potassium and vitamin C which support heart health.
Red beans. Red beans are good sources of iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, copper and thiamine (Vitamin B1). They’re also an excellent low-fat, low-calorie, vegetarian source of protein.
Apples are an excellent source of pectin, a soluble fiber that may aid the body in its ability to maintain healthy blood cholesterol and glucose levels. Fresh apples are also good sources of vitamin C, an antioxidant that protects your body’s cells from free radical damage. Vitamin C is needed to form collagen. It also supports the healthy functions of capillaries and blood vessels and helps in the assimilation of iron.
Other red superfoods include strawberries, a good source of folate and vitamin C. Cherries are high in fiber, vitamin C, potassium. Cranberries are believed to help protect the body from urinary tract infections and help to your body protect itself from stomach ulcers.
Our body needs all the important nutrients found in all kinds of food sources, especially green and red superfoods. A busy life, hectic schedules can often lead us to neglecting our diets and turning to fast foods or junk foods which are more convenient. They are high in calories, low in fiber and extremely low in essential nutrients. In the long run such a lifestyle will take its toll on our health making it vulnerable to various health problems.
A healthy diet and a daily exercise program are recommended for general health and well-being. But if this is not possible, you can conveniently find many of the superfoods described above in wholefood health supplements, like Ruby Reds and Royal Green Ultra. The best way to optimize your health is to choose supplements that give you all the benefits that a well balanced diet is able to give.
References:-
Healing With Whole Foods, Paul Pitchford. North Atlantic Books, 1993 Diet and Nutrition: A Holistic Approach, Rudolph Ballentine. Himalayan Int. Institute 1978.
Arab L, Steck S (2000) Lycopene and cardiovascular disease. Am J Clin Nutr 71: 1691S-1695S
By: Kevin Agrawal
About the Author:
Superfoods are a category of foods that contain a high concentration of nutrition. It is therefore believed that including these in our daily diet may promote general health and well-being. Superfoods are delightful sources of antioxidants. Antioxidants are believed to assist the body in fighting cellular damage by neutralizing free radical damage. Superfoods are also low in calories, high in fiber content and therefore, make excellent fillers for those on a diet.
Nutrition experts recommend that you fill your plate with a rainbow diet—an assortment of different colored foods to obtain a variety of nutrition. In particular, we should include both red and green superfoods. Here’s why:
Green Superfoods
Green superfoods have the least calories, are high in fiber and contain compounds that nutritionally assist your body in burning fat. They contain a high percentage of condensed nutrition—vitamins, minerals, proteins and healthy bacteria. All of these promote health, aid digestion and support detoxification. Green superfoods provide a variety of phytochemicals such as beta-carotene, zeaxanthin and lutein. Beta-carotene helps to promotes cell protection. Zeaxanthin and lutein nutritionally serve our body in protecting our eyes from age-related problems.
Green superfoods contain chlorophyll. This is the pigment that imparts plants their green color. Chlorophyll is similar in structure to the molecular structure of human blood. Chlorophyll helps to increase hemoglobin production, resulting in more oxygenated blood. Oxygen is necessary for cells to survive and replicate.
Some of the important, but least talked about, green superfoods are:
Wheat grass. This is sprouted wheat seeds. It does not contain gluten or other allergens so is specially suited for allergy-sensitive individuals. It contains vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids and chlorophyll. It is said to aid digestion, promote general health, and detoxify the body of heavy metals.
Barley grass. This green superfood has five times more iron content than spinach. It contains more calcium than cow’s milk (eleven times more) and contains seven times more Vitamin C than orange juice.
Spirulina.1 This is a micro-algae and consists of sixty percent protein! It contains a whole spectrum of B vitamins and minerals, including antioxidants, enzymes and amino acids.
Chlorella.1 Chlorella is a fresh water algae and contains a complete protein profile, higher in protein content than beef or soybeans. It also contains vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, enzymes and amino acids.
Green leafy vegetables.
Spinach, mustard sprouts, romaine lettuce, bell peppers, parsley, watercress, kale, broccoli—all these vegetables are readily available and highly nutritious.
Nutrition experts recommend that you eat at least one to two servings a day of these vegetables. Population studies show that those who do run a lower risk of heart disease and perhaps other critical illnesses.
Red Superfoods
Red superfoods are rich in phytochemicals such as lycopene and anthocyanins. Lycopene, being a strong antioxidant, effectively help your body neutralize free radicals, nutritionally assisting blood vessels and heart function.
Some of the best red superfoods are said to have many health benefits:
Pomegranates. They are known to have anti-inflammatory properties which may aid to relieve the inflammation in arthritis. Pomegranates are also known to assist the body to maintain sugar levels in diabetics.
Tomatoes.2 Tomatoes are a good source of lycopene, potassium and vitamin C which support heart health.
Red beans. Red beans are good sources of iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, copper and thiamine (Vitamin B1). They’re also an excellent low-fat, low-calorie, vegetarian source of protein.
Apples are an excellent source of pectin, a soluble fiber that may aid the body in its ability to maintain healthy blood cholesterol and glucose levels. Fresh apples are also good sources of vitamin C, an antioxidant that protects your body’s cells from free radical damage. Vitamin C is needed to form collagen. It also supports the healthy functions of capillaries and blood vessels and helps in the assimilation of iron.
Other red superfoods include strawberries, a good source of folate and vitamin C. Cherries are high in fiber, vitamin C, potassium. Cranberries are believed to help protect the body from urinary tract infections and help to your body protect itself from stomach ulcers.
Our body needs all the important nutrients found in all kinds of food sources, especially green and red superfoods. A busy life, hectic schedules can often lead us to neglecting our diets and turning to fast foods or junk foods which are more convenient. They are high in calories, low in fiber and extremely low in essential nutrients. In the long run such a lifestyle will take its toll on our health making it vulnerable to various health problems.
A healthy diet and a daily exercise program are recommended for general health and well-being. But if this is not possible, you can conveniently find many of the superfoods described above in wholefood health supplements, like Ruby Reds and Royal Green Ultra. The best way to optimize your health is to choose supplements that give you all the benefits that a well balanced diet is able to give.
References:-
Healing With Whole Foods, Paul Pitchford. North Atlantic Books, 1993 Diet and Nutrition: A Holistic Approach, Rudolph Ballentine. Himalayan Int. Institute 1978.
Arab L, Steck S (2000) Lycopene and cardiovascular disease. Am J Clin Nutr 71: 1691S-1695S
By: Kevin Agrawal
About the Author:
New Vitality is a health supplements company. It develops supplement products which are carefully formulated under the guidance of an elite panel comprised of renowned doctors, nutritionists, chemists and researchers. Whether you want a nutritional supplement, pet health supplement, a personal care product or a health care product, New Vitality is a one-stop shop for all needs.
Oct
6
How To Grow Coffee Beans
Filed Under Food And Beverage | Leave a Comment
Your cup of steaming hot coffee every morning isn’t something as easily prepared as you might think. Creating coffee needs more than just putting hot water and stirring sugar into it. It doesn’t even come in instant granules that we are so used to.
The coffee that we drink actually comes from the coffee plants that are cultivated in various parts of the globe. Brazil is the number one coffee producer in the world with a market share of about 30-35 percent. Most countries that produce coffee are from South and Central America and the Middle East. Some Asian countries like Indonesia and India also have coffee plantations.
Coffee plants are evergreen plants that are grown in specific situations. They need specific amounts of water, air and land in order for the flavor to be achieved. It involves a lot of back-breaking work and is pretty labor-intensive. This is perhaps why it is so hard to grow them.
Plants are sown as seedlings in what coffee-growers call nursery beds. The land needs to be well aerated since it should have a healthy amount of oxygen in the roots in order to grow well. After about 8-12 months, the seedlings are then replanted to the coffee fields where there are wet and fertilized holes.
As mentioned before, specific conditions must be kept true in order to cultivate a good coffee bean. Sunlight shouldn’t shine directly. In fact, diffused light is best. Moisture should also be kept constant with frequent and regular watering. The soil should also be fertilized and kept healthy by removing weeds and protecting them from pests.
When planted, it takes a long time before it can mature. The coffee grower needs to wait for about 5 years before his first crop.
What the trees look like Coffee trees are big and broad with dark green leaves. The flower, which resembles jasmine, is where the coffee granules are gotten. That is why harvest time are timed at the period when these flowers blossom. The fruits are also great sources of the coffee beans. The cherries or the berries will begin to come out about 6-8 months after.
It is a must that these fruits are harvested immediately as they can ripen easily- within 10 - 14 days. Manual harvesting is still preferred even if it takes a longer time. This is because the picker needs to keep the good beans apart from the bad ones.
The long wait is however very profitable for the coffee grower. One tree can produce about two pounds of beans, which is around 2000 coffee beans. After the harvest, the coffee beans are then processed. They are dried and then roasted. These coffee beans are then ready to be sold on the market where they will be grounded before being served.
By: Jennifer Seaton
About the Author:
The coffee that we drink actually comes from the coffee plants that are cultivated in various parts of the globe. Brazil is the number one coffee producer in the world with a market share of about 30-35 percent. Most countries that produce coffee are from South and Central America and the Middle East. Some Asian countries like Indonesia and India also have coffee plantations.
Coffee plants are evergreen plants that are grown in specific situations. They need specific amounts of water, air and land in order for the flavor to be achieved. It involves a lot of back-breaking work and is pretty labor-intensive. This is perhaps why it is so hard to grow them.
Plants are sown as seedlings in what coffee-growers call nursery beds. The land needs to be well aerated since it should have a healthy amount of oxygen in the roots in order to grow well. After about 8-12 months, the seedlings are then replanted to the coffee fields where there are wet and fertilized holes.
As mentioned before, specific conditions must be kept true in order to cultivate a good coffee bean. Sunlight shouldn’t shine directly. In fact, diffused light is best. Moisture should also be kept constant with frequent and regular watering. The soil should also be fertilized and kept healthy by removing weeds and protecting them from pests.
When planted, it takes a long time before it can mature. The coffee grower needs to wait for about 5 years before his first crop.
What the trees look like Coffee trees are big and broad with dark green leaves. The flower, which resembles jasmine, is where the coffee granules are gotten. That is why harvest time are timed at the period when these flowers blossom. The fruits are also great sources of the coffee beans. The cherries or the berries will begin to come out about 6-8 months after.
It is a must that these fruits are harvested immediately as they can ripen easily- within 10 - 14 days. Manual harvesting is still preferred even if it takes a longer time. This is because the picker needs to keep the good beans apart from the bad ones.
The long wait is however very profitable for the coffee grower. One tree can produce about two pounds of beans, which is around 2000 coffee beans. After the harvest, the coffee beans are then processed. They are dried and then roasted. These coffee beans are then ready to be sold on the market where they will be grounded before being served.
By: Jennifer Seaton
About the Author:
Want to find out about green tea caffeine and kombucha tea? Get tips from the Types Of Tea website.