Friday, February 25, 2011

Jalapeno-Lime Chicken


This is a great twist to a chicken recipe. It has a very pronounced taste but really hits the spot on a cool day!!!

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon organic olive oil

1 teaspoon grated lime peel

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

1 jalapeno pepper, seeded and diced

1 teaspoon ground cumin

3 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 teaspoon sea salt

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 pound boneless and skinless organic chicken breast halves


Directions:

1.Prepare grill.
2.In a large resealable plastic bag, combine oil, lime peel, lime juice, jalapeno pepper, cumin, garlic, salt and pepper. Place chicken in bag. Squeeze out excess air then seal tightly.
3.Turn bag to coat chicken on all sides then chill in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to marinate.
4. Remove chicken and discard bag with marinade. Place chicken on grill for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.

serve immediately.

Wonderful accompanied by a very colorful salad with dark greens and fresh vegetables of every color topped with raw nuts of your choice and a great tasting balsamic vinaigrette...beautiful food art for sure....

Enjoy!!!

Sylvie Thibert

Chicken Hot Hot Hot!!!!


This chicken recipe has its own unique taste...kind of on the hot side but so delicious served along a nice quinoa/lentil/ brown rice ...sooo good!!!Nothing like a BBQ during the winter.

chicken mixture:

4 skinless and boneless organic chicken breasts

Sea salt to taste

4 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice


Marinade:

2/3 cup plain organic yogurt

2 garlic cloves, crushed

1 inch piece of fresh ginger root, smashed and chopped

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon ground coriander

1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric


Dipping Sauce:

2/3 cup plain organic yogurt

2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped


Preparation:

1.Cut chicken into 1-inch cubes. Sprinkle with salt and lemon juice.

2.In a small bowl, combine all marinade ingredients and mix well.

3.Thread chicken onto skewers. Brush marinade on all sides then cover and marinate in
refrigerator for at least 2 hours.

4.Prepare grill.

5.Grill chicken for 15-20 minutes, turning often, until cooked through.

6.In a small bowl, make the dipping sauce by combining the yogurt and mint.

Makes 4 servings

This is really good, amazing taste....finger licking good...

Enjoy!!!

Sylvie Thibert

Scrumptious Sweet Potato Cookies


Sweet potatoes are a top ingredient at our house.I've made quite a few different dishes with this amazing vegetable. These great tasting cookies are the best!!!
I love having these with a nice cup of steeped organic green tea...mmmm....what a treat.....makes you forget all of the stress and worries that go on during your work day.

Ingredients:

2 1/2 cups organic flour

1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder (aluminum free)

1/2 teaspoon baking soda (aluminum free)

1/4 teaspoon sea salt

1/2 cup organic butter

1/4 cup sucanat (natural cane sugar)

1 tablespoon grated lemon peel

1 teaspoon nutmeg

1/4 cup raw honey

1 egg

1 cup grated, raw sweet potatoes

Preparation:

1.Sift flour, baking powder, baking soda, & salt into medium bowl. Set aside.

2.Cream butter with the sucanat in a large mixing bowl.

3 Mix in lemon peel, nutmeg, honey, & egg. Then stir in the grated sweet potatoes.

4.Blend the flour mixture into the sweet potato mixture.

5.Place rounded teaspoons of the cookie dough onto a parchment paper covered or ungreased cookie sheet (1/2 inch apart).

6.Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 7 minutes. Remove cookies from sheet and put on a cooling rack.

Makes 24 cookies

These are a great anytime, especially during winter after some time spent outdoors!!!

Enjoy!!!

Sylvie Thibert

Tasty Tortilla Pinwheels


These are the easiest hors-d'oeuvres that I've ever made. So wonderful and popular with everyone. It really only asks for a few very simple ingredients and they go a long way...

Ingredients:

4 thawed Ezekiel or brown rice wraps (Baxtrom's organic section-freezer)

1/4 cup plain organic yogurt

pieces of cooked organic chicken or turkey,(thinly sliced)

organic spinach leaves,(washed and dried)

1/2 cup green onions,( finely chopped)

red, yellow, orange peppers (as much as you wish, thinly sliced)


Directions:

1.Using a spatula or knife, spread about 1 tablespoon of organic plain yogurt on each tortilla, making sure to reach the edges.

2.Place slices of meat on each tortilla.

3.Put several spinach leaves in the center of the tortilla and add green onions and pepper mixture.

4.Roll tortilla tightly; secure with a toothpick.

5.Refrigerate for 1 hour. Cut the tortilla into pinwheels,making bite-sized slices along the tortilla until you reach the end.

6.Lay each piece cut-side down on a serving plate.


Variations:


1.You may also choose to add cucumber, carrots or avocado in your pinwheel.

2.Make a fruit pinwheel using homemade nut butter or homemade jam as the spread, then top with thin organic banana slices and other soft fruit like organic strawberries, raspberries, blueberries....mmmm...what a healthy twist!!

There you go, you've impressed your guests and family one more time!!! Good for you!!

Enjoy!!!

Sylvie Thibert

Amazing Eggplant Dip


General Information
Eggplant is:
•Low in Saturated Fat, Sodium, and Cholesterol
•High in Dietary Fiber, Folate, Potassium, Manganese, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Thiamin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Pantothenic Acid, Magnesium, Phosphorus and Copper

The nutritional value and health benefits of eggplant makes it ideal for:
•Maintaining optimum health
•Weight loss

Ingredients:

2 medium eggplants, halved lengthwise
1 tablespoon organic olive oil
1 tablespoon organic coconut oil
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
1/4 cup minced red bell pepper
1/4 cup finely chopped parsley
Sea salt and pepper

Preparation:

1.Heat oven to 400 deg. F. Line a heavy baking sheet with foil.
2.Brush the cut sides of the eggplant with the olive oil and arrange cut side down on the baking sheet. Bake until cut sides are browned and eggplant is soft (about 25minutes).
3.Combine coconut oil and garlic in a skillet and heat over low heat until garlic sizzles. Stir in cumin and remove from heat.
4.Scoop out softened eggplant, chop finely and then add to skillet. Add ginger, bell pepper, and parsley. Stir mixture over low heat until blended. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Makes 2 cups

Serve warm or at room temperature.

This dip is spicy but sooooo good....excellent served with the following recipe of homemeade crackers. It being warmed up makes a delicious addition to any pot-luck or special meal. Have fun making this dip, I'm sure that everyone will be asking for the recipe...please give it to them....

Enjoy!!!

Sylvie Thibert

Your Very Own Healthy Crackers


These crackers are absolutely AMAZING!!! They are so fresh, tasty and a real treat. They are my most recent attempt to help make my family choices the best that they can be. Once you make these great tasting crackers you can eat them with fresh guacamole, hummus, salsa, homemade soups (all found on this site) etc....endless possibilities to go along with these tasty bits of happiness and health!!!
No dehydrator needed, just your oven...cool!!!

Ingredients:(most of the following ingredients can be found in the organic section at Baxtrom's, Farmboy or Sharyn's Pantry)

1 1/2 cups organic flour
1/4 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 tablespoon caraway seeds
1/2 teaspoon baking powder (aluminum free)
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 cup organic butter, cut into small pieces
1/3 cup plain organic yogurt
1 egg white, slightly beaten

Preparation:

1.Preheat oven to 350ºF.
2.In a large bowl or food processor combine flour, coriander, cumin, caraway, baking powder and salt. Add butter pieces a little bit at a time until incorporated. Add yogurt and continue mixing until it forms a doughy consistency. If mixture is too dry, add a tablespoon or more of yogurt.
3.Transfer dough to a floured surface and flatten slightly with the palm of your hand. Let sit for about 10 minutes to rise then using a floured rolling pin, flatten dough to about 1/8-inch thick.
4.Use a 2-inch diameter rounded or squared cookie cutter to cut out shapes. Place cut-out crackers onto a parchment paper covered or ungreased cookie sheet. Using a pastry brush, brush the surface of each cracker with egg white then prick the surface with a fork and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
5.Use a spatula to remove crackers and cool completely on a rack.
6.Store crackers in an airtight container.

Makes 35 to 40 crackers

Additional serving suggestions: Serve crackers with your favorite low-fat dip,smoked salmon or break them into smaller pieces, sprinkled over salad (natural croutons)

Voila!!!

Enjoy!!!

Sylvie Thibert

Homemade Real Fruit Roll-Ups


This is a very popular recipe with kids!!! A great way to make your own fruit roll-ups without all of the added food coloring and preservatives that you will find in the store bought varieties. With this recipe you will not need to use a dehydrator,just your oven will do. Your kids will absolutely love them and you will too because they are made with real ingredients!!! How cool is that????

Ingredients:

3 cups organic apples, cored and chopped
1 cup organic raspberries
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
2 tablespoons raw honey
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

Preparation:

1.Preheat oven to 150º F.
2.Using a blender, blend 1 cup of apples, the raspberries and the orange juice until smooth.
2.Add remaining apples and blend until smooth. Pour apple mixture in a medium sized bowl then stir in the honey, cinnamon and lemon juice.
3.Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.Do not use wax paper or aluminum foil since it's difficult to remove the fruit from these items.
4.Pour apple mixture on the baking sheet and spread with a rubber spatula until it's 1/8 inch thick. Leave about 1/2 inch of space open from edge of pan to allow fruit to expand while drying.
5.Bake in oven for 4-6 hours. Fruit roll-up is done when it is no longer sticky to the touch.
6.When done, roll the fruit with the parchment wrap length wise.
7.Cut into 2-inch pieces. Store pieces in an airtight container.

These are sure to be a hit and works well with any variety of fruit. Get original and make up your own recipe for your own taste. Your kids will love these, this I promise you...

Enjoy!!!

Sylvie Thibert

Monday, February 21, 2011

Delicious Herb Stuffed Sweet Potatoes


You have never had stuffed sweet potatoes(yams) like this before. These are savory, and really hit the spot when you want something that is filling. Amazingly these are healthy as there is little added butter to them.

Yield: 2-4 servings.

2 medium sweet potatoes
1 Tbsp. organic butter
1/2 Tbsp. fresh thyme, chopped
2 Tbsp. fresh chives, chopped
1/4 tsp.sea salt, or to taste
Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
organic mozzarella cheese(shredded) (Baxtrom's)

Preparation

1. Wash the sweet potatoes and prick with a fork. Place on a baking tray and bake at 400°F for 1 hour, or until soft when gently squeezed.
2. Cut in half lengthwise and carefully scoop the flesh out into a bowl, being careful not to break the skins. You may find it helpful to hold them in a cloth. Add the butter and mash well. Add the thyme, chives, salt, and pepper to taste and mix well.
3. Spoon the mixture back into the skins, piling up slightly in the center. Top off with grated cheese and return to the oven for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the yams are heated through.

Your family and guests will be impressed and screaming for more...so delicious and very original as a side dish....very tasty!!

Enjoy!!

Sylvie Thibert

Three Great Varieties of Cabbage Soup


My husband asked me today to make him some cabbage soup. He absolutely loves this when he comes home from a cold winter day of four wheeling.These are famous cabbage soup recipes that you can try at home.These are great soups if you want to detoxify your body naturally.
You can find all of these great wonderful fresh ingredients right here in town either at Baxtrom's or Farmboy....Metro has a great selection as well.These stores all have great organic produce for you to choose from,it is so good for your body, mind and soul. Your body will thank you for it and just knowing that you are eating the best that you can eat will help you maintain a healthy lifestyle.

There are a number of benefits when you eat cabbage soup.
Here are some of them:

- Weight loss
- Better vitamin intake
- Better digestion
- Stronger resistance to common ailments
- Younger skin

Whatever variety you choose, cabbage soup will do wonders for your body. One doesn't need to be a cooking expert to prepare this. Here are some exciting recipes to give you an extra hand.

1. Original Cabbage Soup

Ingredients

- 1 head cabbage
- 6 medium onions
- 6 green onions
- 6 carrots
- 2 bell peppers
- 3 large tomatoes
- 5 stalks celery
- 1 cup uncooked wild mix/brown rice (Baxtrom's or Farm Boy)
- Salt and freshly-ground black pepper

Preparation

Slice the vegetables in small pieces.Stir fry the vegetables in coconut oil (1 tsp.).Once softened, add to a pot 1/2 filled with filtered water and bring to a boil. Let the mix simmer covered for around 20 minutes until the vegetables are soft enough. You can add the rice while the soup is simmering. Add salt and pepper to taste.


2.The Military Diet Cabbage Soup

Ingredients

- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 large bunch of celery
- 2 bunches of green onion
- 1 large can of organic diced tomatoes
- 2 boxes of organic chicken broth
- 3 large bell peppers
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

Military way is short and simple. Chop all the vegetables and stir fry in coconut oil (1 tsp.). Once the vegetables are softened add to a large pot of organic chicken broth. Add the diced tomatoes, bring the mixture to a boil then simmer covered for 30 minutes. Serve.

3. Miracle Cabbage Soup

- 1 large dark green cabbage
- 1 red, 1 green, 1 yellow pepper
- 1 head of celery
- 2 carrots
- 2 lbs of mushroom
- 3 big leeks
- Small bunch of organic spinach
- 3 onions
- 2 boxes organic chicken broth

Preparation

Chop all of the ingredients.Stir fry in coconut oil (1 tsp.). Add to broth, upon boiling, decrease heat and let the soup simmer covered for another 30 minutes.

These are just a few samples of how you can prepare very healthy cabbage soup.The smell in your house will be absolutely delicious....especially tasty after a nice winter outing.

Happy Family Day 2011....don't forget to hug and kiss your loved ones...that is the best vitamin for your body and soul....the LOVE vitamin!!!!

Enjoy!!!

Sylvie Thibert

Sunday, February 20, 2011

Sylvie's Tasty Taters Twist


You can whip this up in a flash, its very tasty and you can make this dish without added fat or salt. A heart healthy recipe.

Yield: 4 servings

6 large sweet potatoes, peeled, quartered
1 1/2 cups organic vegetable or chicken broth
2 cloves garlic, large, chopped
pepper to taste

Preparation

1.Steam sweet potatoes, covered, until tender. Remove from heat. Drain and recover.

2.Meanwhile, in small saucepan over low heat, cook garlic in broth until softened (about 30 minutes).
*If you wish you may also rub the whole garlic cloves with organic olive oil, wrap it in foil and place in a 350 degree oven (approx. 15 minutes). Remove the skin and chop into small pieces, then you may add to the broth until it is to desired softness.(this will give it a more pronounced taste).

3.Add garlic mixture and pepper to potatoes. Beat with electric mixer on low speed, or mash with potato masher, until smooth.

This is great served up in winter time with a wonderful piece of organic meat and a great tasting salad....mmm...sure to hit the spot just right...

Enjoy!!!

Sylvie Thibert

Saturday, February 19, 2011

Incredible Tasting Coconut Milk!!!


Welcome to my kitchen!! I hope that you enjoy this video that I recently filmed in my home.
Coconut milk is not the liquid inside a coconut,although this liquid does make a satisfying drink. Rather, coconut milk is made by squeezing the grated flesh of a coconut with some hot water resulting in a rich white liquid that looks very much like cow's milk.
Fresh coconut milk, if not shaken, separates into two layers, with the thick(upper)layer being the coconut cream and the thinner(bottom)layer being the actual milk. The top layer can be skimmed off with a spoon and used for recipes requiring coconut cream (usually desserts) with the bottom layer being reserved for recipes specifying coconut milk.

This is a great alternative to cow or soy milk....

How to prepare coconut milk from fresh coconuts

1.Pierce the eyes of a fresh coconut, drain the liquid inside and place the coconut on a rack and bake in a 325 F pre-heated oven for about 30 minutes.
2.Remove the coconut from the oven, let it cool a bit and crack it, with a hammer so that the shell breaks into several pieces.
3.Remove all the coconut meat from the shell, peel off the brown skin and cut the meat into very small cubes.
4.Place the meat in a blender, add hot water to just cover all of the meat and blend until finely grated.
5.Have someone pour the mixture into a cheese cloth that you are holding over a bowl,squeeze handfuls of the coconut meat to extract as much liquid as possible into the bowl(I call this milking the coconut,I wear latex free gloves to do this).
6.Discard the squeezed coconut meat and refrigerate the coconut milk that has been extracted into the bowl. Refrigerate the milk and use within 1 or 2 days.

Preparing coconut milk from shredded organic coconut

1.Empty an 8 oz package of unsweetened organic shredded coconut into a blender and add 1 cup of boiling water.
2.Blend for about 30 seconds and allow the mixture to cool a bit.
3.Have someone pour the mixture into a cheese cloth that you are holding over a bowl,squeeze handfuls of the coconut mixture to extract as much liquid as possible into the bowl.
4.Discard the squeezed coconut meat and refrigerate the coconut milk that has been extracted into the bowl.
5.Refrigerate the milk and use within 1 or 2 days.

Click on the video below to view an authentic way of making your own coconut milk...very interesting.



This coconut milk recipe is great with the natural granola recipe that you will find on my recipe blog (February 2010, step by step video as well). You can also use it in other recipes or just drink a tall glass of wholesome goodness (for a treat you can add a tablespoon of organic cocoa powder).

This is truly nature's milkshake....

Enjoy!!!

Sylvie Thibert

Egg Less homemade Mayonnaise


A homemade mayonnaise recipe is traditionally a very simple spread to make. It’s surprising that more people don’t make their own, however with the salmonella problem with eggs, a basic ingredient in traditional mayonnaise, most people don’t want to chance it.
Well for those of you who don’t want to chance salmonella poisoning, give this egg less homemade mayonnaise recipe a try.

Homemade Mayonnaise Recipe

Makes 3/4 cup mayonnaise

1/2 cup soaked almonds (soak almonds for 8 hours)
1/2 cup filtered water
Juice 1/2 organic lemon
3/4 tablespoon honey
1/2 tablespoon raw apple cider vinegar
1/8 teaspoon dry mustard
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 to 2/3 cup organic olive oil

Preparation

1.Place all the ingredients for your homemade mayonnaise recipe in a heavy duty blender except the olive oil.
2.Puree the ingredients until very smooth. With blender still in motion,slowly pour a thin stream of olive oil through the opening in your blender’s cover.
3.Continue to puree until you reach the right consistency. Taste and adjust flavors to your liking.

Variety of ways to use this mayonnaise mixture;
1.With hard boiled eggs(mashed),add small green onions, sea salt and pepper to taste.
2.With canned organic wild salmon,dill pickles (diced), salt and pepper to taste.

These Make great sandwiches,wraps,romaine lettuce wraps. You can even add the mixtures to beautiful salads accompanied with a great homemade soup found on my recipe blog...mmmm...yummy!!

Here's to your health! Happy Family Day by the way....

Enjoy!!!

Sylvie Thibert

Freshly Baked Homemade Cookie


It is hard to resist a freshly baked homemade cookie. However cookies, whether store bought or homemade, tend to be high in trans fatty acids and hydrogenated fats, not to mention refined carbohydrates. This vegan oatmeal cookie recipe offers you a truly healthy alternative to traditional oatmeal cookies that are probably loaded with sugar. You can feel good about baking these cookies for your family every now and then.

Ingredients

Makes about 12 medium sized cookies

1/2 cup sucanat(natural cane sugar,available at Baxtrom's)
1/3 cup honey
3 tablespoons organic coconut oil
1/4 cup tahini(sesame butter,available at Baxtrom's and Farmboy)
1 tsp baking powder (aluminum free, available at Baxtrom's)
1/4 tsp baking soda (aluminum free, available at Baxtrom's)
1 cup organic flour
1 cup oats
1 tsp vanilla
1 tsp cinnamon
½ cup chopped walnuts
½ cup raisins or organic chocolate chips

Preparation

1.Place sucanat,honey,coconut oil and tahini in a large bowl and mix together.
2.Dissolve baking powder and baking soda in about 1 tablespoon filtered water and add to mixture.
3.Add flour, oats, vanilla, and cinnamon. Incorporate ingredients thoroughly. The dough should be thick and pull away from the sides of the bowl into a ball. If it is too thin, add equal amounts of flour and oats until you get the right consistency.
4.Once the dough for your cookie recipe is at the right consistency, fold in the chopped walnuts, raisins or chocolate chips.
5.Chill the dough in the refrigerator for about 2 hours, or until cold.
6.Form into balls and set on a cookie sheet with ample space between the cookies. Bake this in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F for about 10 minutes.
7.Let the cookies set for 2-3 minutes, then remove them from the cookie sheet to a rack for cooling.

The only thing left to do is, enjoy them!!!

Sylvie Thibert

Energy Boosting Bars (Raw)


Everyone at one time or another is looking for an real energy boost.How many people do you know that complain of the mid-afternoon slump?The remedy is easy and available to every person who wants more energy. I want you to discover the energizing effects of whole, natural foods, like this energy bar recipe.

Here are a few more tips to help solve your personal energy crisis. If you really want more energy, the best thing you can do for yourself is get rid of all the processed foods you are now using to sustain your energy. If you want more energy, you are much better off drinking purified water than drinking coffee, colas, and even canned or dangerous energy drinks. Many of them are high in sugar, caffeine or artificial sweeteners that can have long term side effects. And hey, water is a lot cheaper too.

To sustain your energy all day long eat whole, natural and preferably raw foods.

Ingredients

1/2 cup pitted medjool dates
1/2 cup soaked walnuts (soak for 8 hours)
3/4 cups raw almonds
3 tablespoons honey
3/4 cups shredded organic coconut unsweetened
1/4 cup raisins
1/4 cup dried cranberries unsweetened
Extra organic coconut for rolling balls or sprinkling over the top of the bars

Preparation

1.Place almonds into food processor with S blade and grind into a meal texture. Add the rest of the ingredients and process into a dough type mixture.

For bars; press the dough into an 8x8 pan and sprinkle with coconut. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours before cutting into bars.

To make energy balls; roll dough into 16 to 24 balls and roll each ball in coconut. Refrigerate for 1-2 hours.

Anytime you are experiencing an energy crisis, instead of reaching for a soft drink or candy bar, have an energy ball or energy bar!This would also be great with a nice piece of 90% dark chocolate...what a natural fix!!!!

To your excellent health!

Enjoy!!!

Sylvie Thibert

Awesome Banana Muffins


I'm sure that you will enjoy this delicious banana muffin recipe. Of course this is a totally vegan muffin recipe and 100% natural…you don’t need to worry about any natural flavorings or hydrogenated fats in these muffins. This healthy muffin recipe is quick, easy and delicious...

Makes 6-8 large muffins or 32-48 mini muffins

Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

3 ripe medium size organic bananas
1/2 cup sucanat
1/4 cup raw honey
1/2 cup olive oil
3 cups organic flour
3/4 tablespoon baking powder (aluminum free, found at Baxtrom's)
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 cup organic shredded coconut
3/4 cup chopped walnuts

Preparation

1.In a large mixing bowl mash the bananas,stir in the sucanat,honey and oil.

2.In a separate bowl whisk together the flour,sea salt,baking powder and spices. Next, stir the flour mixture into the banana mixture. Add a minimal amount of filtered water to get a thick batter consistency. Finally,fold in the coconut and walnuts.

3.Spoon the batter into lightly buttered muffin tins of your choice so that they are 2/3 filled. Bake mini muffins for approximately 8 minutes. Bake large muffins for 12-15 minutes. Test your muffins with a toothpick. If the toothpick you inserted draws out clean,they are ready.

4.Remove immediately and carefully from the muffin tin. Cool slightly before eating the muffins. You can easily double or triple this recipe...they freeze very well...

Eat Healthy, Be Healthy!

Enjoy!!

Sylvie Thibert

Monday, February 14, 2011

Healthy Ooey Gooey Chocolate Balls!!!!


Who wouldn’t want to eat an ooey gooey chocolate ball?
These treats give the idea of making mud pies a whole new meaning!
These are great fun to make…and great fun to eat!
You have to try these!They are a great snack to have on hand in the fridge.And they really do just take about five minutes to make.

Ingredients

1/4 cup organic nut butter (can be found at Baxtrom's)
*check out my nut butter recipe with the following granola recipe*
1/4 cup honey
1/4 cup wheat germ
1/2 cup oats
1/4 cup chocolate chips
1/4 cup sesame seeds

Method

1.Cook the nut butter and honey over low heat until melted.
2.Add remaining ingredients.
3.When cool enough to handle roll into balls.
4.Place on cookie sheet and refrigerate for 1 hour. You can keep these great tasting treats in a sealed container in the refrigerator.

You may also want to give the following healthy macaroon recipe a try as well...so quick and yummy!!



Have fun with these recipe and let the whole family get in on it..a family who plays together..stays together..

Happy Valentine's Day....

Enjoy!!!

Sylvie Thibert

Delicious Granola Bars


Here is an easy recipe and it includes all natural sweeteners and ingredients! These bars are way cheaper than store bought granola bars!Plus you can customize it according to your family’s taste and allergies!They can be easily wrapped individually to take in the car or packed in a lunch!
These are great when you need a quick, grab and go snack to take along with you for those quick trips to the soccer field or on family trips.

Ingredients

1/2 cup homemade nut butter (my quick recipe follows)
1/3 cup honey
1/4 cup organic coconut oil
1 cup oats
1 cup total of any combination of:sesame seeds, coconut flakes, sunflower seeds, dried fruit, mini organic chocolate chips

*Note:Homemade nut butter

All you need to do is soak any raw nuts of your choice for 6 hours in filtered water. Drain and pat dry, add to food processor and process until the mixture forms a ball. Approximately 6 minutes.You can add sea salt to taste or melted organic coconut oil to make it a smoother consistency.Seal in glass jar and refrigerate for up to two weeks.

Method

1.In a medium sized saucepan, melt together homemade nut butter, honey and coconut oil.
2.Remove from heat and add one cup of oats.
3.Choose your favorite combination of coconut flakes, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, dried fruit and mini chocolate chips, to equal a total of ONE CUP.(I just got out my one cup measuring cup and poured in the ingredients until the cup was full) Add to mixture.
5.Stir well, then spread mixture into a 8×8 or 9×4 pan.Chill for two hours.
6. Cut and wrap individual portions.

*You can easily double or triple this recipe*

You may even want to give the next recipe a try...very easy and so delicious!!!



Make this recipe your own.Create your favorite combinations with your loved ones. Don't be afraid to take risks and be adventurous in your kitchen.

Enjoy!!

Sylvie Thibert

Double Chocolaty Chip Muffins


I’m not sure if you are a chocolate lover like I am, but any recipe that has the words chocolate makes me very happy and excited.

Ingredients
(The following ingredients can be found in the organic section at Baxtrom's)

1 1/2 cups organic flour
1/3 cup sucanat
1/4 cup organic cocoa powder
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 cup melted organic coconut oil
2/3 cup organic plain yogurt
1 organic egg
1/4 cup organic chocolate chips

Method

1.Stir together dry ingredients.
2.Mix in coconut oil,yogurt and egg.
3.Fold in chocolate chips.
4.Scoop into lined or greased muffin tins.(small amount of organic butter)
5.Bake at 400° for 20 minutes.

Makes 12 small muffins.You can easily double or triple this recipe and freeze some if they last that long....

*Note:You can also make this into a quick bread…just spread the batter into a buttered loaf pan and bake at 350° for 50 minutes!

Enjoy!!!!

Sylvie Thibert

Homemade Pizza Pockets


As parents we know how hard it sometimes is to convince our kids that all of the food that they see in other lunch boxes are often nothing but foods full of preservatives and ingredients that can't be pronounced.
Now you can make your own special treats with ingredients found in your healthy pantry and best of all you can be proud to say that you made them yourself.
As parents we have to take the time to make the food and show our kids how easy it really is...they have to see that we are ready to show them how to make them with everyday fresh ingredients..

These Homemade Pizza Pockets are a perfect treat that you can make ahead and keep in the freezer…then heat them in the oven at lunchtime.

Crust

3 1/2 cups organic flour
1 t. sea salt
1 cup melted organic butter
1 cup plain organic yogurt

Stir ingredients together until thoroughly mixed.

Homemade Pizza Sauce

1 1/2 cups tomato sauce(homemade preferred)
1/2 t. garlic powder
1 1/2 t. oregano
1 1/2 t. basil

Stir together and simmer for a few minutes.

Pizza Pocket Fillings

Grated organic mozzarella or cooked organic hamburger, cooked organic sausage, olives, peppers, mushrooms

To form a Pizza Pocket

1.Roll a small ball of dough into a circle.Place one tablespoon of pizza sauce in the center.Put in a small amount of your choice of toppings.Fold the dough in half. Use a fork to pinch the edges together.

2.Lay Pizza Pockets on a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper.Freeze for about one hour.Pop them off the cookie sheet and put them into a freezer bag…and back into the freezer.

Baking your Pizza Pockets

Frozen Pizza Pockets

1.Bake in a 400 degree oven for 30 minutes.

Thawed Pizza Pockets

1.bake at 400 degrees for 20 minutes.

I love the convenience of this nutritious ”fast food”! Serve them with fruit and veggies(God’s fast food!)…and you’ve got yourself a quick and easy lunchtime treat!!
Serve this up with homemade almond milk, Basmati brown rice milk or even coconut milk....mmmm...

Enjoy!!!

Sylvie Thibert

Sunday, February 6, 2011

Super Foods (part I)



Quinoa

Quinoa is nutrient dense and it is a complete protein. Compared to other grains, quinoa is higher in calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, iron, copper, manganese, and zinc.

Quinoa and butternut squash

Ingredients:

2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
1 tablespoon coconut oil
1 cup uncooked quinoa
1teaspoon ground cinnamon
1teaspoon ground ginger
1 1/3 cup organic chicken broth
1 teaspoon sea salt
1/2 teaspoon pepper

Method:

1.In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add the butternut squash and oil.
2.Sauté until the squash begins to slightly soften and add the quinoa and spices.
3.Lightly toast quinoa until golden and aromatic, about 1 minute.
4.Add chicken stock and salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, cover and reduce the heat to low.
5.Cook for 15 minutes or until the squash is soft and the quinoa is fluffy.

Serve immediately.

Yield: 6 side servings

For a vegetarian recipe,use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock.

Black Beans


This is an obvious one, but no less important. Black beans are a good source of folate, dietary fiber, manganese, protein, magnesium, vitamin B1 (thiamin), phosphorus, and iron.

Black Bean Chili

2 tbsp coconut oil
2 1/2 cups chopped onions
3 garlic cloves, chopped
2 1/2 cups 1/2-inch pieces, peeled butternut squash
2 tbsp chili powder
2 tsp ground cumin
1 15-ounce can organic black beans, rinsed, drained
2 1/2 cups organic vegetable broth
3 cups (packed) coarsely chopped Swiss chard leaves,(stems removed)
Sea salt and pepper to taste

Method

1.Heat a large skillet over medium high heat and add in oil. Add in onions and garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden brown.
2.Add squash and sauté for 4 minutes. Stir in chili powder and cumin. Stir in beans and broth bring to a boil.
3.Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, until squash is tender, about 15 minutes. Add in Swiss chard and cook about 4 more minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Flaxseeds


Omega 3 fatty acids are an ever important building block nutrient that like B12, the body cannot produce on its own.You can get this from flaxseeds.

Warm Flax Cereal

4 Tbsp. whole flax seeds
•warm water
•honey
•cinnamon
•pinch of sea salt
Blend whole flax seeds in a coffee grinder until it reaches a fine texture.

Method

Pour into a bowl and stir in cinnamon and sea salt. Add enough warm water until it reaches a creamy texture. Stir in honey. Eat right away because the cereal will thicken quickly.

Berry Flax Meal Smoothie

1/2 cup frozen strawberries
1 cup almond milk (homemade preferable)
1/2 organic banana
2 Tbsp. flax seed meal (blend whole seeds into a powder)
handful of ice cubes

Process in a blender and drink right away.

You can add flaxseeds to almost anything, cereal, oatmeal, salads, main meals etc...just sprinkle some on and its that easy....

Try all of these recipes and you will enjoy them even more knowing all of the great nutrients that it is giving to your body....

Enjoy!!!

Sylvie Thibert

Superfood Recipes (part II)


These superfood recipes will give your body energy and vitamins to keep it running well throughout the day...your body will thank you for it and you will feel much better at the end of the day knowing that you have given it the best that you could.
Kale

At just $2 a bunch, kale is a member of the dark, leafy greens group. It's loaded with vitamin C and vitamin B as well as calcium. Want to relieve depression? Eat kale.

Sauteed Kale recipe

Yield: 2 to 4 servings

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil or organic coconut oil
1?2 teaspoon crushed red pepper
3 cloves garlic
2 bunches kale, roughly chopped
1 cup organic vegetable stock or filtered water
1 teaspoon sea salt

Method:
1.In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil.
2.After 10-15 seconds, add the crushed red pepper, garlic and cook until fragrant, 30 to 45 seconds.
3.Add the greens, in batches, stirring between additions until the greens wilt slightly.
4.Cook, stirring, for 2 minutes. Add the stock, salt and cayenne and cover, continuing to cook until greens are just tender, 4 to 5 minutes longer.

Broccoli

This low cost cruciferous vegetable has it all. Cruciferous vegetables are known for a compound that neutralizes toxins in the liver and helps cleanse the system.

When we think superfood, we often think of a tiny berry tucked deep in the rain forests of the Amazon and that may be true. But many of the most beneficial superfoods are right in your own backyard. We were built to eat with the seasons; we need hearty foods in the winter and light, watery, juicy foods in the summer and spring.

Cruciferous vegetables are known as a super veggie that in most areas of the country can be found locally. Cruciferous vegetables include broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and kale and are known for a compound that neutralizes toxins in the liver and helps cleanse the system as a result. Cruciferous vegetables are loaded with fiber that lower our cholesterol.

Cruciferous vegetables have shown the ability to stop the growth of cancer cells in the breast, uterine lining (endometrium), lung, colon, liver, and cervix.

If your family is a not a huge fan of cruciferous veggies, a stir fry is a great place to hide them.

Broccoli Stir Fry

1 tbsp sesame seeds
1/4 cup organic vegetable stock
1 tbsp tamari sauce
1 tbsp organic coconut oil
1 pound broccoli florets, rinsed and dried, chopped into bite-sized pieces
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp minced fresh ginger
pinch red pepper flakes

Method

1. Start by toasting the sesame seeds in a skillet over medium heat. Watch carefully and remove from the heat when fragrant, being careful not to burn them. Set aside.
2. Turn a wok to medium high heat. Add 1 tbsp coconut oil to the wok and let heat up. Add in broccoli and stir fry for two minutes turning continually. Add in ginger and garlic, still stirring continuously so not to burn either the garlic or the ginger.
3. At the same time, combine the stock and soy sauce in a small bowl. Add into the wok and turn down the heat. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes. Cook 1 more minute. Top with sesame seeds and serve immediately.

Serves 4.

Sweet potatoes

Sweet, savory, and downright delicious, nothing beats this winter staple. Sweet potatoes are loaded with fiber, protein, vitamin A, and vitamin C.
Sweet potato puree adds heartiness to the pancakes, and it adds a lot of moisture. Once in a while you'll bite into a delicious chunk of sweet potatoes which is delicious with organic maple syrup.

I beg you never to use what is referred to as "pancake syrup",the less expensive counterpart to maple syrup because it has not a single drop of maple syrup in it. That's right no maple. In fact, it's actually just high fructose corn syrup and caramel coloring. Yuck!!

I purchase my maple syrup right from Yves St-Pierre in Lancaster, Ontario ($17 a liter), you really can't beat it.If you're going to make a sweet potato pancake, go for it,splurge a little you won't regret it!!

To make the puree, simply peel and boil the potatoes until a fork easily punctures the skin. Drain and let cool.

Sweet Potato Pancakes

3/4 cup organic all purpose flour
1 cup sweet potato puree
1 1/2 tbsp sugar
3/4 tbsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pumpkin pie spice
1/8 tsp nutmeg
1/4 tsp cinnamon

Combine in another bowl:

3/4 cup rice or almond milk
1 1/2 tbsp organic butter
1 local egg
1/4 tsp real vanilla extract


Method

1.Mix the dry ingredients and the wet ingredients together.
2.Heat up the skillet to medium and add 1 tbsp of organic butter to the skillet .
3.Let it melt and add 1/4 cup batter to the skillet. Be careful so that it doesn't burn because it will burn easier with sweet potato in the recipe.
4.top each pancake with maple syrup...voila!!!

mmmm...talk about comfort food and what a great way to get a good start to your day!!!

Enjoy!!!

Sylvie Thibert