Monday, December 31, 2012
How Much Water is Enough?
How much water should we be drinking everyday? Online recommends 2.5L a day. I say more. I drink more than 2.5L before lunch. Drinking water is very vital in our everyday lives. Staying hydrated is not just for people that work out. It will keep your cells clean, yourself hydrated, skin healthier and just have an overall better feeling. So remember to drink water.
Saturday, December 29, 2012
Sometimes its All You Need
Sometimes just having a salad for lunch or dinner is all you need.
Mixed Greens, Apples and Avocado with a Honey Mustard Dressing.
Mixed Greens, Apples and Avocado with a Honey Mustard Dressing.
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Black Bean Soup
I know it's been awhile since I last posted anything. Been really busy with my wife having another kid, a baby girl this time :) helping my wife with her business and such. Here is a quick and easy dinner to make. You can prepare in about 20 mins and have it ready when you want it. Its great for leftovers or have it for a lunch with some crusty bread.
Ingredients
2 Cans of Black Beans - Drained and Rinsed
2 (400g) Cans of Chopped Tomatoes or 1 28oz Can if you are in the US
3 Chicken Broth Cubes
1.5ltr of Water (6 cups of water)
1 Tbsp of Sunflower Oil
1 White onion - Chopped
4 Garlic Cloves - Minced
1pk of Sausages - Sliced
1 Tbsp of Paprika
1 Tbsp of Cumin
Salt
Pepper
First the the water in a pot and start to bring it to a boil. While your waiting on the water to boil chopped your onion, mince you garlic, slice the sausages. Next drain and rinse the Black Beans. Once the water in the pot is boiling add the chicken broth cubes and stir. Heat a frying pan with the oil on medium-high heat, once warmed place your onion, garlic and sausages stirring occansionaly till the sausages are brown enough. Remember not to burn the garlic or onion. While that is happened place the Black Beans in the pot of water then add the tomatoes, spices and salt and pepper to taste. Then add your mix from the frying pan, stir, bring to a boil, then simmer. I simmer for about 2 hours. 1 Hour with the lid on, one with the lid off.
Enjoy :)
Ingredients
2 Cans of Black Beans - Drained and Rinsed
2 (400g) Cans of Chopped Tomatoes or 1 28oz Can if you are in the US
3 Chicken Broth Cubes
1.5ltr of Water (6 cups of water)
1 Tbsp of Sunflower Oil
1 White onion - Chopped
4 Garlic Cloves - Minced
1pk of Sausages - Sliced
1 Tbsp of Paprika
1 Tbsp of Cumin
Salt
Pepper
First the the water in a pot and start to bring it to a boil. While your waiting on the water to boil chopped your onion, mince you garlic, slice the sausages. Next drain and rinse the Black Beans. Once the water in the pot is boiling add the chicken broth cubes and stir. Heat a frying pan with the oil on medium-high heat, once warmed place your onion, garlic and sausages stirring occansionaly till the sausages are brown enough. Remember not to burn the garlic or onion. While that is happened place the Black Beans in the pot of water then add the tomatoes, spices and salt and pepper to taste. Then add your mix from the frying pan, stir, bring to a boil, then simmer. I simmer for about 2 hours. 1 Hour with the lid on, one with the lid off.
Enjoy :)
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Easy Lunch
Want something quick and easy for lunch especially after you just made all that pesto. Here is something easy to make if you are in a hurry or want a lite lunch.
Nice Crusty Bread
Pesto (check out my recipe on here)
Chorizo (if you want)
Tomato
Olive Oil
Pepper
Directions:
Toast the bread, spread with pesto, add the chorizo, add a slice of tomato, drizzle with olive oil and pepper to taste.
Thai-Style Sweet Potato Soup
So tonight I decided to try and make a soup. This is the first one that I have really put together on my own. It came out really nice actually. When I was eating a similar one a few weeks back I told myself I need to create this. It took me a while to get around to it, I finally did today. This can be eaten as an appetizer or a main meal for lunch or dinner. Serve with nice crusty bread.
Ingredients:
2 Large Sweet Potatoes
2 Large Sweet Onions
2 Tbsp of Brown Sugar
4 Tbsp of Peanut Oil
2 Tbsp of Thai Red Curry Paste
2 Tbsp of Ground Ginger
2 L of Chicken Stock
200ml of Coconut Milk (Half a Can)
Handful of Cilantro (Coriander)
1/2 Cup of Chopped Spring Onion
Juice of 2 Limes
Directions:
Preheat oven to 200C, peel the sweet potatoes and slice in half, do the same for the sweet onions. Place on baking tray, scatter brown sugar and half of the peanut oil over the top of the veg making sure to cover most of the veg. Bake the veg for about 45 mins, making sure to turn the veg a few times throughout them baking. Once baked the veg should be golden brown, caramelized, not black.
Then take a large pot and add the rest of the peanut oil, Thai Red Curry Paste and ginger, cook over a medium heat for about 3 mins. Then add the baked veg and mix. At this point don't worry if the veg isn't chopped etc. Mix the best you can. Next pour in the chicken stock and simmer for 15 mins.
What I did next was I took out all the veg the best I could and placed them in a blender with most of the stock and blended till smooth. Put the smooth mix into another pot, then blend the rest, add all together and stir. Add the coconut milk, stir, simmer for another 3 mins, add the cilantro, sweet onions and lime juice. Serve while warm
Serves about 6
2 Large Sweet Potatoes
2 Large Sweet Onions
2 Tbsp of Brown Sugar
4 Tbsp of Peanut Oil
2 Tbsp of Thai Red Curry Paste
2 Tbsp of Ground Ginger
2 L of Chicken Stock
200ml of Coconut Milk (Half a Can)
Handful of Cilantro (Coriander)
1/2 Cup of Chopped Spring Onion
Juice of 2 Limes
Directions:
Preheat oven to 200C, peel the sweet potatoes and slice in half, do the same for the sweet onions. Place on baking tray, scatter brown sugar and half of the peanut oil over the top of the veg making sure to cover most of the veg. Bake the veg for about 45 mins, making sure to turn the veg a few times throughout them baking. Once baked the veg should be golden brown, caramelized, not black.
Then take a large pot and add the rest of the peanut oil, Thai Red Curry Paste and ginger, cook over a medium heat for about 3 mins. Then add the baked veg and mix. At this point don't worry if the veg isn't chopped etc. Mix the best you can. Next pour in the chicken stock and simmer for 15 mins.
What I did next was I took out all the veg the best I could and placed them in a blender with most of the stock and blended till smooth. Put the smooth mix into another pot, then blend the rest, add all together and stir. Add the coconut milk, stir, simmer for another 3 mins, add the cilantro, sweet onions and lime juice. Serve while warm
Serves about 6
Monday, September 10, 2012
Creamy Chicken Pesto
So tonight after I made Pesto and a batch of fresh salsa I decided to make a yummy creamy pasta. What an easy thing to do since I already made the Pesto. Its a quick and easy meal to make in about 20-30 mins. Your family will enjoy it as did mine.
Its not a heavy meal either so you wont feel completely stuffed or heavy after eating it.
Ingredients for Pesto: If its not made already
3 Cups of Basil (Fresh)
4 Garlic Cloves (Minced)
1/2 Cup of Olive Oil
1/3 Cup of Pine Nuts or Walnuts if you want.
1/2 Cup of Parmesan Cheese
Salt
Pepper
Marinade for Chicken:
3 Chicken Breast (sliced)
3 tbsp of Olive Oil
1 tbsp of Basil
2 tsp of Oregano
Pepper
Salt
Creamy Pesto Sauce:
4-5 tbsp of Olive Oil
1 Cup of Heavy Cream
Sundried Tomatoes (as many as you want)
3-4 tbsp of pesto
Pepper
Pasta Ingredients:
Thin Linguine or Angle Hair Pasta (whatever you would like really)
Directions:
If you haven't already made the pesto (if you have continue on)..Combine the basil in with the pine nuts, pulse a few times in a food processor. (If you are using walnuts instead of pine nuts and they are not already chopped, pulse them a few times first, before adding the basil.) Add the garlic, pulse a few times more.
Slowly add the olive oil in a constant stream while the food processor is on. Stop to scrape down the sides of the food processor with a rubber spatula. Add a little more olive oil if you want it a bit more smooth. Add the grated cheese and pulse again until blended. Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
If you have made the pesto already or are using a jarred one..Prepare your chicken. Turn the oven on to 180C (350F). While the oven is warming, slice the chicken breast or however you want it. Combine the marinade in a bowl or container, place your chicken slices in the marinade. If using a container put the lid on and shake to mix all the ingredients. If you are using a bowl use your hand to mix it. Let sit till the oven is warm. While the oven is warming and your marinade is mixed with the chicken, fill a pot of water adding some olive oil and a few pinches of salt, begin bringing to a boil. By the time you have done that the oven should be warm enough for the chicken to go in. Place chicken in oven for about 20 mins.
While your chicken is cooking and your pasta water is being brought to a boil, ready your cream and slice your sundried tomatoes. Ready your pan with the olive oil for the sauce, add your sundried tomatoes. When the oven reaches 10 mins left for the chicken the water for the pasta should be boiling. Add your pasta, stiring occasionly for about 10 mins. While your pasta is cooking and there is about 5 mins left, begin warming the pan with the olive oil and sudried tomatoes, add the cream and some pepper, bring to a semi boil. Add the tbsp's of pesto and stir till it all mixes well. All should be done at the same time. Pull out the chicken, drain the pasta (put the pasta back into the pot once drained, add some olive oil so it doesn't stick), then serve how you would like it.
What I did was put some pasta on a plate, placed a couple of chicken slices on top, then added a couple of spoonfuls of the creamy pesto sauce on top of the chicken. Enjoy :)
Serves about 6
Its not a heavy meal either so you wont feel completely stuffed or heavy after eating it.
3 Cups of Basil (Fresh)
4 Garlic Cloves (Minced)
1/2 Cup of Olive Oil
1/3 Cup of Pine Nuts or Walnuts if you want.
1/2 Cup of Parmesan Cheese
Salt
Pepper
Marinade for Chicken:
3 Chicken Breast (sliced)
3 tbsp of Olive Oil
1 tbsp of Basil
2 tsp of Oregano
Pepper
Salt
4-5 tbsp of Olive Oil
1 Cup of Heavy Cream
Sundried Tomatoes (as many as you want)
3-4 tbsp of pesto
Pepper
Pasta Ingredients:
Thin Linguine or Angle Hair Pasta (whatever you would like really)
Directions:
If you haven't already made the pesto (if you have continue on)..Combine the basil in with the pine nuts, pulse a few times in a food processor. (If you are using walnuts instead of pine nuts and they are not already chopped, pulse them a few times first, before adding the basil.) Add the garlic, pulse a few times more.
Slowly add the olive oil in a constant stream while the food processor is on. Stop to scrape down the sides of the food processor with a rubber spatula. Add a little more olive oil if you want it a bit more smooth. Add the grated cheese and pulse again until blended. Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
If you have made the pesto already or are using a jarred one..Prepare your chicken. Turn the oven on to 180C (350F). While the oven is warming, slice the chicken breast or however you want it. Combine the marinade in a bowl or container, place your chicken slices in the marinade. If using a container put the lid on and shake to mix all the ingredients. If you are using a bowl use your hand to mix it. Let sit till the oven is warm. While the oven is warming and your marinade is mixed with the chicken, fill a pot of water adding some olive oil and a few pinches of salt, begin bringing to a boil. By the time you have done that the oven should be warm enough for the chicken to go in. Place chicken in oven for about 20 mins.
While your chicken is cooking and your pasta water is being brought to a boil, ready your cream and slice your sundried tomatoes. Ready your pan with the olive oil for the sauce, add your sundried tomatoes. When the oven reaches 10 mins left for the chicken the water for the pasta should be boiling. Add your pasta, stiring occasionly for about 10 mins. While your pasta is cooking and there is about 5 mins left, begin warming the pan with the olive oil and sudried tomatoes, add the cream and some pepper, bring to a semi boil. Add the tbsp's of pesto and stir till it all mixes well. All should be done at the same time. Pull out the chicken, drain the pasta (put the pasta back into the pot once drained, add some olive oil so it doesn't stick), then serve how you would like it.
What I did was put some pasta on a plate, placed a couple of chicken slices on top, then added a couple of spoonfuls of the creamy pesto sauce on top of the chicken. Enjoy :)
Serves about 6
Pesto
Its been awhile since I have last posted anything on my blog. I have been out of touch with it and doing a lot lately to get around to writing/creating something.
Pesto - easy to make. If you don't know how to do it already here is how. If you do know how but want to try this one then please do. It came out great.
Ingredients:
3 Cups of Basil (Fresh)
4 Garlic Cloves (Minced)
1/2 Cup of Olive Oil
1/3 Cup of Pine Nuts or Walnuts if you want.
1/2 Cup of Parmesan Cheese
Salt
Pepper
Directions:
Combine the basil in with the pine nuts, pulse a few times in a food processor. (If you are using walnuts instead of pine nuts and they are not already chopped, pulse them a few times first, before adding the basil.) Add the garlic, pulse a few times more.
Slowly add the olive oil in a constant stream while the food processor is on. Stop to scrape down the sides of the food processor with a rubber spatula. Add a little more olive oil if you want it a bit more smooth. Add the grated cheese and pulse again until blended. Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Serve with pasta or spread onto some nice fresh bread for a snack.
Yield: Makes 1 cup.
Pesto - easy to make. If you don't know how to do it already here is how. If you do know how but want to try this one then please do. It came out great.
3 Cups of Basil (Fresh)
4 Garlic Cloves (Minced)
1/2 Cup of Olive Oil
1/3 Cup of Pine Nuts or Walnuts if you want.
1/2 Cup of Parmesan Cheese
Salt
Pepper
Directions:
Combine the basil in with the pine nuts, pulse a few times in a food processor. (If you are using walnuts instead of pine nuts and they are not already chopped, pulse them a few times first, before adding the basil.) Add the garlic, pulse a few times more.
Slowly add the olive oil in a constant stream while the food processor is on. Stop to scrape down the sides of the food processor with a rubber spatula. Add a little more olive oil if you want it a bit more smooth. Add the grated cheese and pulse again until blended. Add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Serve with pasta or spread onto some nice fresh bread for a snack.
Yield: Makes 1 cup.
Monday, August 6, 2012
Vegan and Mormon
Here is a great blog article I came across the other day while reading about being vegan etc. Its a great read for Non-Mormons and Mormons alike. If you are thinking about changing your diet or becoming Vegan and you are a Mormon please read because you know what the WOW (Word of Wisdom) says we should be doing when most of us are not.
http://bring-joy.com/2009/04/20/vegan-and-mormon-an-anomaly/
http://bring-joy.com/2009/04/20/vegan-and-mormon-an-anomaly/
Sunday, August 5, 2012
Saturday, August 4, 2012
Organic Brown Rice, Black beans, Homemade Salsa and Grilled Chicken
Looking for something healthy and yummy for dinner tonight? This will fill you up plus give you great energy and the protein you need. This is a very simple recipe to do and I'm pretty sure your kids will like it as well. My son loves it.
Ingredients:
1 Can of Black Beans
1-2 Cups of Organic Brown Rice
2 Chicken Breasts (Fillet in half to make four fillets)
1/2 tsp Paprika
1/2 tsp Oregano
1/4 tsp Cumin
4 Jalapenos slices
1 Lime (juiced)
Salsa
Pepper
Salt
Try my Homemade Salsa which can be found here:
http://owenshealthouse.blogspot.co.uk/2012/05/delicious-simple-salsa.html
Directions:
In a bowl add the Paprika, Oregano, Cumin, Pepper and Salt and mix. Pour the lime juice over the chicken breasts. Then coat the chicken with your spices. Warm oven to 350F (180C). Place chicken in oven and cook for 20-25mins.
Add your rice to a pan, cover rice with an inch of water over the top. Bring to a boil then simmer for 25mins. While this and the chicken are cooking. Place the black beans in a pan (DO NOT drain and rinse) add your chopped jalapenos. On a low heat stir occasionally.
Everything will then be done at the same time. Serve and Enjoy :)
Serves 6 depending on how much rice you do.
Ingredients:
1 Can of Black Beans
1-2 Cups of Organic Brown Rice
2 Chicken Breasts (Fillet in half to make four fillets)
1/2 tsp Paprika
1/2 tsp Oregano
1/4 tsp Cumin
4 Jalapenos slices
1 Lime (juiced)
Salsa
Pepper
Salt
Try my Homemade Salsa which can be found here:
http://owenshealthouse.blogspot.co.uk/2012/05/delicious-simple-salsa.html
Directions:
In a bowl add the Paprika, Oregano, Cumin, Pepper and Salt and mix. Pour the lime juice over the chicken breasts. Then coat the chicken with your spices. Warm oven to 350F (180C). Place chicken in oven and cook for 20-25mins.
Add your rice to a pan, cover rice with an inch of water over the top. Bring to a boil then simmer for 25mins. While this and the chicken are cooking. Place the black beans in a pan (DO NOT drain and rinse) add your chopped jalapenos. On a low heat stir occasionally.
Everything will then be done at the same time. Serve and Enjoy :)
Serves 6 depending on how much rice you do.
Monday, July 30, 2012
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Sunday, July 29, 2012
Simple Mixed Salad
Here is a simple salad to make for a dinner, snack or starter. Its a yummy one.
Ingredients:
Spinach
Lettuce
Sweet Pepper
Apple
Salad Onions
Broccoli
Cauliflower
Parmesan Cheese
Mix how you want..Enjoy :)
Ingredients:
Spinach
Lettuce
Sweet Pepper
Apple
Salad Onions
Broccoli
Cauliflower
Parmesan Cheese
Mix how you want..Enjoy :)
Creamy Chicken Pasta
Here is one of my favorite recipes. I really enjoy a good creamy chicken pasta. I have had only a couple of great ones in my life so I decided to create one. Its a really simple recipe and I know you will enjoy it as well.
Ingredients:
3 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
1pkt of linguine or spaghetti, cooked al dente (I used whole spaghetti)
1-2 cup heavy whipping cream
1 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes
1/2 cup of chopped mushrooms (not to small)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon dried basil
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/8 paprika
4 garlic cloves (minced)
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
Directions:
First bake or grill the chicken in the oven on 180C (350F) for about 20 mins. While you are waiting for the oven to warm fill a pot of water, add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Once the oven is heated up place your chicken in the oven. About 10 mins left with the chicken your water should be boiling enough to add the pasta. 10 mins for the pasta should be sufficient.
During the last 10 mins of the pasta and chicken cooking mix all your ingredients for the sauce. In a large saucepan add the heavy cream, tomatoes, mushrooms, basil, salt, minced garlic, black pepper, paprika and heat through. Set aside till chicken is finished cooking.
Once the chicken is done, take out of the oven and slice. Add to the sauce. Drain the pasta and mix the sauce in the pasta. Finish
Serves 5-7
Ingredients:
3 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
1pkt of linguine or spaghetti, cooked al dente (I used whole spaghetti)
1-2 cup heavy whipping cream
1 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes
1/2 cup of chopped mushrooms (not to small)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon dried basil
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/8 paprika
4 garlic cloves (minced)
1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
Directions:
First bake or grill the chicken in the oven on 180C (350F) for about 20 mins. While you are waiting for the oven to warm fill a pot of water, add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Once the oven is heated up place your chicken in the oven. About 10 mins left with the chicken your water should be boiling enough to add the pasta. 10 mins for the pasta should be sufficient.
During the last 10 mins of the pasta and chicken cooking mix all your ingredients for the sauce. In a large saucepan add the heavy cream, tomatoes, mushrooms, basil, salt, minced garlic, black pepper, paprika and heat through. Set aside till chicken is finished cooking.
Once the chicken is done, take out of the oven and slice. Add to the sauce. Drain the pasta and mix the sauce in the pasta. Finish
Serves 5-7
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Herb of the Week/Female Reproductive Formula
This is a great herb to use during your Menstrual period. I have known a few women that have taken this herb to correct their periods and make them normal. Women have also told me that they have less to no pain during their periods and don't feel as sick. Seems like this would be a great herb for you women to take and plus I think your men will appreciate it haha.
Female Reproductive Formula: Many natural healers know this formula as the female corrective formula. This is an amazing combination of herbs to aid in rebuilding a malfunctioning reproductive system, uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, etc. Over the years herbalists and patients have seen painful menstruations, heavy flowing, cramps, irregularity, etc., change to a painless menstrual period, good menstrual timing, and a new outlook on life by using these aids to readjust the malfunctioning areas.
Ailments historically treated: Amenorrhea, Bloating (Water Retention), Gonorrhea, Heavy Menstruation, Hot Flashes, Indigestion, Menstrual Conditions, Menopause, Miscarriage, PMS/PMT, Uterus.
Herbal Treatment Warning: Do not use during pregnancy or while nursing except as directed by your health care professional.
For more information check out
http://www.herbsfirst.com/descriptionsformulas/FemaleReproductiveFormula.htm
or go to http://www.herbsfirst.com/ to check it out and other great herbs.
DISCLAIMER
Remember I'm not a doctor or professional herbalist. I'm just getting the info out there for people to know there is an alternative to everyday medicine. For more info you should check out http://www.herbsfirst.com to have a professional speak with you about what this herb can do, dosage etc..
Chia Seeds
For more info on what this seed can do check out
http://www.mychiaseeds.com/Articles/Top10ChiaBenefits.html
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Cucumber and Lime Drink
Being that it was so hot today by English standards, I decided to make a nice cold refreshing drink. Pretty much like the same as the lemon drink except this time just cucumbers and lime. Its a very refreshing drink when served very cold. Really simple to make as well. I know you will enjoy this one just like the lemon drink.
Ingredient:
1 Pitcher of Water
Half a cucumber
2 limes
1/2 tbsp of sugar
Directions:
Fill a pitcher of water, slice the cucumber, slice the lime add sugar. Chill and serve.
Enjoy :)
1 Pitcher of Water
Half a cucumber
2 limes
1/2 tbsp of sugar
Directions:
Fill a pitcher of water, slice the cucumber, slice the lime add sugar. Chill and serve.
Enjoy :)
Spaghetti Bolognese
I know I have been made a lot of recipes that don't have a meat ingredient so I decided to change that a bit. I went ahead and made my spaghetti bolognese for you all to try. Really easy to make and taste great. Its probably one of the easiest spaghetti's to make. I would like to expand on this recipe a bit more when I have more time to experiment. There are a lot of things your can do with spaghetti that taste great. But for now here is mine to try.
This is a great dinner you and your kids will enjoy.
Ingredients:
500g of Pasta
1lb of Hamburger Meat (500g UK)
28oz can of crushed tomatoes (800g UK)
1tsp of Oregano
1tbsp of Basil
1 Onion, Diced
4 Garlic Cloves, Crushed
Olive Oil
2tsp Salt
1tsp Pepper
Directions:
Begin with filling a pot with water. Add 1tsp of salt and about a tsp of olive oil. Bring the water to a boil. While that is happening, dice your onion and mince the garlic. Add 2 tsp of olive oil to the pan you are going to cook the sauce in. Warm your pan on medium-high heat. Once warm enough add the onion and garlic. You want to saute the garlic and onion for about 2-3 mins but be careful not to burn it. Once sauteed, add the meat and brown. Then add your crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt and pepper and stir. Bring to a boil then reduce to simmer, stirring occasionally. Your water for the pasta should almost be boiling by now. Once boiling add your pasta and cook for about 10mins. Once your pasta is done, drain and put back into the pan or bowl, add some olive oil so the pasta doesn't stick together. Once done with the pasta your sauce will be ready to eat. Garnish with fresh parmesan cheese and serve with garlic bread or salad.
Serves 4-6
This is a great dinner you and your kids will enjoy.
500g of Pasta
1lb of Hamburger Meat (500g UK)
28oz can of crushed tomatoes (800g UK)
1tsp of Oregano
1tbsp of Basil
1 Onion, Diced
4 Garlic Cloves, Crushed
Olive Oil
2tsp Salt
1tsp Pepper
Directions:
Begin with filling a pot with water. Add 1tsp of salt and about a tsp of olive oil. Bring the water to a boil. While that is happening, dice your onion and mince the garlic. Add 2 tsp of olive oil to the pan you are going to cook the sauce in. Warm your pan on medium-high heat. Once warm enough add the onion and garlic. You want to saute the garlic and onion for about 2-3 mins but be careful not to burn it. Once sauteed, add the meat and brown. Then add your crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt and pepper and stir. Bring to a boil then reduce to simmer, stirring occasionally. Your water for the pasta should almost be boiling by now. Once boiling add your pasta and cook for about 10mins. Once your pasta is done, drain and put back into the pan or bowl, add some olive oil so the pasta doesn't stick together. Once done with the pasta your sauce will be ready to eat. Garnish with fresh parmesan cheese and serve with garlic bread or salad.
Serves 4-6
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Herb of the week/HCG
What is hCG?
hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) is a natural hormone produced in large quantities during pregnancy to ensure proper nutrition for the developing baby. hCG triggers the hypothalamus to move stored fat into the bloodstream to be burned as energy. It is believed to reset the metabolism and to protect the body's good fat and keep muscle tissue from breaking down, which occurs in other low calorie diets without the use of hCG. hCG ezTrim drops are a premium grade homeopathic hCG weight loss product that is made in the USA in an FDA GMP Certified Pharmaceutical Facility.
My wife and I tried it for a couple of weeks just to see what it would do. We wanted to see if what was being said about it worked. It did work to our surprise. I guess if we did the cleanse and the meal plan it would have worked better. We just gave it a go on our normal diet and we still lose over 5 pounds in two weeks.
For more information, meal plans, directions and how to order check out
http://www.herbsfirst.com/descriptionsmisc/hCGProtocol.html
or go to http://www.herbsfirst.com/ and search hCG
Friday, June 22, 2012
Summer Pasta
Looking for some yummy pasta to try? Can't figure out what to make? Try my Summer Pasta. It has a great mix of flavors and its simple to make. Doesn't take long at all. It will be a pasta you love and will want again. I haven't made this in awhile and I decided to put a twist on it. I usually use Sun Dried Tomatoes but this time I decided to roast everything and give it a go. It came out quite nice I must say. Let me know how yours goes.
Ingredients:
500g of Pasta
1 Garlic Bulb
4 garlic cloves
4 Small Tomatoes
2 bunches of Cherry Tomatoes
1 Container of fresh olives (Mixed)
8 White Mushrooms
Fresh Mozzarella
Salt
Pepper
Directions: Pre-Heat Oven to 375F (180C) also start your water for your pasta.
First what you want to do is prep your veg for roasting. Take your garlic bulb, tomatoes and cherry tomatoes. Cut about 1/4 inch of the top of the bulb, slice into fours your tomatoes but don't go all the way through. Nothing needs to be done to your cherry tomatoes. Next take about 4 garlic cloves from another garlic bulb, peel and place into tomatoes. Drizzle all veg in olive oil. Wrap tightly in foil. Place in oven for about 25mins. Also your pot with water should be being brought to a boil at this point. This will take a good 10 mins or so. You can start your water before you prep your veg.
Once everything is in the oven and you are still waiting for the pot of water to boil. De-stem and peel your mushrooms and slice. Put into a heated frying pan with some olive oil and saute for about 3mins. Place into bowl with olives till everything is ready.
By this point your veg will have about 10 mins or so left and your water should be boiling. Add pasta and cook for remaining 10mins. Everything will be done together by this point. Take veg out of the oven, drain your pasta, place back into pan and drizzle with olive oil so the pasta doesn't stick together. Add your mushrooms and olives. Next you want to chop the whole tomatoes (WATCH OUT THOUGH BECAUSE YOUR VEG WILL BE HOT), chop your garlic from the tomatoes, peel your garlic bulb and chop your garlic, leave your cherry tomatoes whole. Mix in the pasta your garlic, chopped tomatoes and mozzarella. Mix really well while adding some more olive oil, pepper and salt.
Serve with some cherry tomatoes on top.
500g of Pasta
1 Garlic Bulb
4 garlic cloves
4 Small Tomatoes
2 bunches of Cherry Tomatoes
1 Container of fresh olives (Mixed)
8 White Mushrooms
Fresh Mozzarella
Salt
Pepper
Directions: Pre-Heat Oven to 375F (180C) also start your water for your pasta.
First what you want to do is prep your veg for roasting. Take your garlic bulb, tomatoes and cherry tomatoes. Cut about 1/4 inch of the top of the bulb, slice into fours your tomatoes but don't go all the way through. Nothing needs to be done to your cherry tomatoes. Next take about 4 garlic cloves from another garlic bulb, peel and place into tomatoes. Drizzle all veg in olive oil. Wrap tightly in foil. Place in oven for about 25mins. Also your pot with water should be being brought to a boil at this point. This will take a good 10 mins or so. You can start your water before you prep your veg.
Once everything is in the oven and you are still waiting for the pot of water to boil. De-stem and peel your mushrooms and slice. Put into a heated frying pan with some olive oil and saute for about 3mins. Place into bowl with olives till everything is ready.
By this point your veg will have about 10 mins or so left and your water should be boiling. Add pasta and cook for remaining 10mins. Everything will be done together by this point. Take veg out of the oven, drain your pasta, place back into pan and drizzle with olive oil so the pasta doesn't stick together. Add your mushrooms and olives. Next you want to chop the whole tomatoes (WATCH OUT THOUGH BECAUSE YOUR VEG WILL BE HOT), chop your garlic from the tomatoes, peel your garlic bulb and chop your garlic, leave your cherry tomatoes whole. Mix in the pasta your garlic, chopped tomatoes and mozzarella. Mix really well while adding some more olive oil, pepper and salt.
Serve with some cherry tomatoes on top.
Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup
Really quick and easy lunch today. I just made some grilled cheese with fresh sour dough bread and a side of cream of tomato soup. The grilled cheese I made in the oven while the soup was being heated up. This is just a quick and easy lunch for those of you with busy lives. I used fresh from the baker sour dough and an organic cream of tomato soup. If you don't want to make your own you can find a lot of different kinds of course esp you all in the US. Pacific Organic Cream of Tomato is the one I like the best and is pretty easy to find. You can find it at Whole Foods and probably most top end grocery stores.
http://www.pacificfoods.com/our-foods/creamy-soups/organic-creamy-tomato-all-natural-soup This is another favorite of mine as well if you don't want to have cream of tomato http://www.pacificfoods.com/our-foods/creamy-soups/organic-roasted-red-pepper-and-tomato
Ingredients:
1 Can of Cream of Tomato Soup
Extra Mature Cheddar Cheese
Sour Dough
Butter
Directions:
Heat oven to about 350F (175C). Slice your bread, butter both pieces. Add some cheddar. Once the oven is heated put into oven for about 5-7 mins. Do not put both slices together. Empty soup into pan and warm.
Serve :)
http://www.pacificfoods.com/our-foods/creamy-soups/organic-creamy-tomato-all-natural-soup This is another favorite of mine as well if you don't want to have cream of tomato http://www.pacificfoods.com/our-foods/creamy-soups/organic-roasted-red-pepper-and-tomato
1 Can of Cream of Tomato Soup
Extra Mature Cheddar Cheese
Sour Dough
Butter
Directions:
Heat oven to about 350F (175C). Slice your bread, butter both pieces. Add some cheddar. Once the oven is heated put into oven for about 5-7 mins. Do not put both slices together. Empty soup into pan and warm.
Serve :)
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Chicken and Black Bean Burrito
What to make for lunch today?? I decided to make a quick chicken and black bean burrito. This is a great quick and easy meal to make. It's healthy as well with a great source of protein. Black beans have some of the highest protein found in food esp in beans, chicken as well. It's great to eat before or after a workout or just for some great "Mexican".
Main Ingredients:
1 Can of Black Beans
2 Chicken Breast
1-2 cups of Organic Brown Rice
Seasoning for chicken:
1 tablespoon chili powder
Seasoning for black beans:
Small bunch of chopped Cilantro (Coriander)
Half of a Jalapeno de-seeded (or just some jarred Jalapenos)
Salt
Pepper
Directions:
Put your rice in a pan and cover with about an inch of water. Bring to a boil. Once boiling stir once, cover and turn on low for about 20mins. When there is about 15 mins left start to make your chicken. Once there is about 5 mins left on the rice and the chicken start the beans.
I used 2 Chicken breast, diced. Warm a deep frying pan with about a tablespoon of sunflower or veg oil. Put in the chicken, cook for about 2-3 mins of medium-high heat. Then add your spice mix. Cook for about another 10 mins on a low heat. You don't want to cook to long on a high heat because you will burn the spice and garlic.
To make the beans just empty the can of beans in a pan on medium heat, add your cilantro (coriander), jalapenos, salt and pepper. I also added some chili powder (optional)
Garnish with some home made salsa http://owenshealthouse.blogspot.co.uk/2012/05/delicious-simple-salsa.html and sour cream
If you have any questions let me know. Enjoy :)
2-3 Chicken Breast (cut into small chunks)
Seasoning for black beans:
Small bunch of chopped Cilantro (Coriander)
Half of a Jalapeno de-seeded (or just some jarred Jalapenos)
Salt
Pepper
Directions:
Put your rice in a pan and cover with about an inch of water. Bring to a boil. Once boiling stir once, cover and turn on low for about 20mins. When there is about 15 mins left start to make your chicken. Once there is about 5 mins left on the rice and the chicken start the beans.
I used 2 Chicken breast, diced. Warm a deep frying pan with about a tablespoon of sunflower or veg oil. Put in the chicken, cook for about 2-3 mins of medium-high heat. Then add your spice mix. Cook for about another 10 mins on a low heat. You don't want to cook to long on a high heat because you will burn the spice and garlic.
To make the beans just empty the can of beans in a pan on medium heat, add your cilantro (coriander), jalapenos, salt and pepper. I also added some chili powder (optional)
Garnish with some home made salsa http://owenshealthouse.blogspot.co.uk/2012/05/delicious-simple-salsa.html and sour cream
If you have any questions let me know. Enjoy :)
Monday, June 18, 2012
Herb of the week/Bilberry Eye Support
This week herb of the week is what I call "Eye Bright". Its actual name is Bilberry Eye Support. I have heard great things about this and will start to try it soon. I will let you all know how it goes.
Bilberry Eye Support Formula is a synergistic blend of herbs to help with the healthy circulation to the eye. This formula helps promote blood circulation to the eyes helping to repair damaged vessels, improve night vision, cleanse the tissues and bring antioxidants to the eye. Bilberries a close relative of blueberries, are high in a bioflavonoid complex known as anthocyanosides. Anthocyanosides speed the regeneration of rhodopsin, the purple pigment that is used by the rods in the eye for night vision. This makes bilberry a possible first line of defense for those with poor night vision.
Description:
Bilberry Eye Support Formula Contains: Bilberry, Eyebright, Ginkgo Biloba Leaves & Cayenne Pepper. All encapsulated products are in a pure 100% vegetable based capsule.
Ailments historically treated:
DISCLAIMER
Bilberry Eye Support Formula is a synergistic blend of herbs to help with the healthy circulation to the eye. This formula helps promote blood circulation to the eyes helping to repair damaged vessels, improve night vision, cleanse the tissues and bring antioxidants to the eye. Bilberries a close relative of blueberries, are high in a bioflavonoid complex known as anthocyanosides. Anthocyanosides speed the regeneration of rhodopsin, the purple pigment that is used by the rods in the eye for night vision. This makes bilberry a possible first line of defense for those with poor night vision.
Description:
Bilberry Eye Support Formula Contains: Bilberry, Eyebright, Ginkgo Biloba Leaves & Cayenne Pepper. All encapsulated products are in a pure 100% vegetable based capsule.
Ailments historically treated:
- Blepharitis
- Blindness (Night)
- Cataracts
- Conjunctivitis
- Eye Health (General)
- Glaucoma, Macular Degeneration
- Night Blindness
- Nyctalopia
- Retinopathy
- Sty
For more information check out http://www.herbsfirst.com/
DISCLAIMER
Remember I'm not a doctor or professional herbalist. I'm just getting the info out there for people to know there is an alternative to everyday medicine. For more info you should check out http://www.herbsfirst.com to have a professional speak with you about what this herb can do, dosage etc..
Chicken Curry
So tonight I made Chicken Curry. As you know I have already posted a recipe on here but I just wanted to add a new picture of the one I made tonight. It was great. You should try it and let me know how it goes.
Here is the link to the link to the recipe http://owenshealthouse.blogspot.co.uk/2012/05/smooth-spice-curry.html
Here is the link to the link to the recipe http://owenshealthouse.blogspot.co.uk/2012/05/smooth-spice-curry.html
Friday, June 15, 2012
Ham and Avocado Sandwich
Craving a sandwich for lunch? Why not try a simple ham and avocado sandwich or pass on the ham for just tomato and avocado on sour dough. If you haven't noticed I like using sour dough bread haha. Sour Dough to me is one of the best breads to use for many things. Its taste is great thrown into a mix of other flavors. This sandwich turned out great after toasting it for a bit in the oven.
Ingredients:
Organic/Fresh Ham
Light Mayo or just plain old Mayo
Mustard
Tomato
Mature Cheese
Avocado
Sour Dough (or bread of your choosing)
Directions: Build how you want. I also toasted mine on 350F (180C) for about 5-10mins. They came out great.
Ingredients:
Organic/Fresh Ham
Mustard
Tomato
Mature Cheese
Avocado
Sour Dough (or bread of your choosing)
Directions: Build how you want. I also toasted mine on 350F (180C) for about 5-10mins. They came out great.
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Health Tip
No matter how much great food you eat or supplements you take, you can still be depleted if you are doing any of these three things:
- Ingesting raw cacao or other toxin-loaded substances like alcohol, pot, caffeine, MSG, junk food, etc...as these deplete your adrenal glands causing fatigue.
- Overeating. When you overeat you turn all the good nutrients in your system in to toxic sludge.
- Not exercising. Eat all the wonderful, nutrient-dense raw vegan organic fruits and vegetables you like, but you won't absorb and utilize the nutrients effectively unless you exercise daily.
Find out how to eat a balanced raw vegan diet and thrive at http://28daysraw.com/
- Overeating. When you overeat you turn all the good nutrients in your system in to toxic sludge.
- Not exercising. Eat all the wonderful, nutrient-dense raw vegan organic fruits and vegetables you like, but you won't absorb and utilize the nutrients effectively unless you exercise daily.
Find out how to eat a balanced raw vegan diet and thrive at http://28daysraw.com/
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Herb of the week/Liver and Gall Bladder Formula
This weeks herb of the week is Liver and Gall Bladder Formula. Its great for cleansing your liver when needed. I have known some people that have taken this for a year or more to cleanse their liver because of liver problems. It helped them and can help you as well.
Ailments historically treated: Cholecystisis, Gallstones, Hepatitis, Jaundice, Liver (General), Osteomalacia, Rickets, Vomiting.
For more information check out http://www.herbsfirst.com/
DISCLAIMER
Liver & Gall Bladder Formula: Barberry or Oregon Grape Root, Wild Yam, Cramp Bark, Fennel Seed, Ginger, Catnip and Peppermint. All encapsulated products are in a pure 100% vegetable based capsule.
Extract: a base of Pure vegetable Glycerine, Distilled Water, & Ethyl Alcohol (less than 5%).
This formula can greatly increase the vitality of the body. To speed up the blood purifying process, it is good to have a clean liver and gall bladder area. When the liver does not function properly, the bile does not excrete freely into the intestinal tract, and so it passes off into the blood stream and throughout the rest of the system, causing a toxic condition, causing indigestion, sluggishness, fatigue, constipation, upset stomach, chills, vomiting and fever.
For more information check out http://www.herbsfirst.com/
DISCLAIMER
Remember I'm not a doctor or professional herbalist. I'm just getting the info out there for people to know there is an alternative to everyday medicine. For more info you should check out http://www.herbsfirst.com to have a professional speak with you about what this herb can do, dosage etc..
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Roasted Garlic and Tomato Linguine
Tonight for dinner I decided to go with a pasta. I haven't made a pasta in a very long time (trying to cut back on the carbs). My brother was over and hungry. It was a very quick meal to prepare and goes a long way esp for leftovers. I decided to make some roasted garlic and tomatoes again because they add so much flavor to a meal.
I roasted garlic, tomatoes and cherry tomatoes.
Ingredients:
1 tub of fresh sundried tomato or normal pesto, homemade or store bought. Tonight I used store bought freshly made
1pkt of linguine
Fresh Parmesan
1 Pkt of Cherry Tomatoes
2 Whole Tomatoes
1 whole garlic bulb
Olive Oil
Pepper
Directions:
Pre-heat oven to 375F (180C)
Take the garlic bulb and cut about 1/2in or so off the top. Use about 1tbsp of olive oil and cover the top of the garlic bulb, letting the oil seep down into the garlic cloves. Next drizzle olive oil over the cherry tomatoes. Wrap both the garlic bulb and cherry tomatoes together tightly in foil. Then take the 2 whole tomatoes and slice about half way down from the top of the tomato. Make sure to not cut it in half completely. Do this so you have about 6-8 what would be slices. Then pour olive oil over the top letting it go down inside the tomato. Wrap the tomatoes together tightly in foil. Put into oven for about 20-25mins.
While those are roasting take your pasta pan and add enough water so its a few inches from the top of the pan. Add some salt and some oil. Salt for making the water come to a boil more quickly and oil to help your pasta to not stick together. Bring to a boil. Once boiling add your pasta. By this time you will have about 10mins left on the timer for the roasted veg which is perfect because pasta will take about 10mins to cook.
Everything will then be done together. Take out your veg but leave wrapped in foil for now. Drain your pasta and put back into the pan adding some olive oil and mix so your pasta does not stick together. Put the lid on it to keep it warm. Next take your veg and dice or slice (however you want it). I diced my roasted garlic (remember roasted garlic is not as strong as just eating garlic. You can add a lot and it will taste fantastic). Leave the cherry tomatoes whole because when you bite into them they will burst in your mouth with all sorts of flavor. Add all to pasta including pesto, mix, shred some fresh Parmesan cheese on top and serve.
Serves: about 6
Serve with garlic bread and salad. Enjoy :)
I roasted garlic, tomatoes and cherry tomatoes.
Ingredients:
1 tub of fresh sundried tomato or normal pesto, homemade or store bought. Tonight I used store bought freshly made
1pkt of linguine
Fresh Parmesan
1 Pkt of Cherry Tomatoes
2 Whole Tomatoes
1 whole garlic bulb
Olive Oil
Pepper
Directions:
Pre-heat oven to 375F (180C)
Take the garlic bulb and cut about 1/2in or so off the top. Use about 1tbsp of olive oil and cover the top of the garlic bulb, letting the oil seep down into the garlic cloves. Next drizzle olive oil over the cherry tomatoes. Wrap both the garlic bulb and cherry tomatoes together tightly in foil. Then take the 2 whole tomatoes and slice about half way down from the top of the tomato. Make sure to not cut it in half completely. Do this so you have about 6-8 what would be slices. Then pour olive oil over the top letting it go down inside the tomato. Wrap the tomatoes together tightly in foil. Put into oven for about 20-25mins.
While those are roasting take your pasta pan and add enough water so its a few inches from the top of the pan. Add some salt and some oil. Salt for making the water come to a boil more quickly and oil to help your pasta to not stick together. Bring to a boil. Once boiling add your pasta. By this time you will have about 10mins left on the timer for the roasted veg which is perfect because pasta will take about 10mins to cook.
Everything will then be done together. Take out your veg but leave wrapped in foil for now. Drain your pasta and put back into the pan adding some olive oil and mix so your pasta does not stick together. Put the lid on it to keep it warm. Next take your veg and dice or slice (however you want it). I diced my roasted garlic (remember roasted garlic is not as strong as just eating garlic. You can add a lot and it will taste fantastic). Leave the cherry tomatoes whole because when you bite into them they will burst in your mouth with all sorts of flavor. Add all to pasta including pesto, mix, shred some fresh Parmesan cheese on top and serve.
Serves: about 6
Monday, June 11, 2012
Lemon, Cucumber and Mint Drink
Sorry I have been gone for awhile. I was gone all weekend at a really once in a lifetime concert. Thinking of what to drink lately my wife and I came up with this one. This drink taste so great you will probably just drink it all really quick. Its simple to do and taste really well. My wife says "it helps in slimming" so you all will have to let me know what you think as well.
Ingredients:
2 ltrs of Water
1 Medium Cucumber (Peeled and Sliced)
1 Lemon (whole sliced)
10 Fresh mint leaves
Directions:
Simple really. Jug, Water, Slice your veg, add to water add mint leaves. Chill in fridge for a bit before you drink unless you like luk-warm drinks haha..no need to add sugar unless you really want to.
Enjoy :)
Ingredients:
2 ltrs of Water
1 Lemon (whole sliced)
10 Fresh mint leaves
Directions:
Simple really. Jug, Water, Slice your veg, add to water add mint leaves. Chill in fridge for a bit before you drink unless you like luk-warm drinks haha..no need to add sugar unless you really want to.
Enjoy :)
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Eggs on Toast
Want a really simple breakfast, then try my eggs on toast.
Really simple to do.
Ingredients
2 Eggs
2 Pieces of Sourdough bread Toasted
1 Tomato
Salt
Pepper
Directions
Turn on oven and heat to about 350F (175C) slice your tomato, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper and put into oven for about 10mins
Once there is about 5mins left on the tomatoes
Heat pan on medium-medium high heat adding some butter. Make sure the butter is melted but not burning. Crack open your eggs and into the pan they go. Put your bread in the toaster. What I did was I kept the eggs just on the one side for about 2-3 mins. No flipping necessary. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Once eggs are done, toast will be done. Butter toast, place eggs on toast and done..Enjoy :)
Really simple to do.
Ingredients
2 Eggs
1 Tomato
Salt
Pepper
Directions
Turn on oven and heat to about 350F (175C) slice your tomato, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper and put into oven for about 10mins
Once there is about 5mins left on the tomatoes
Heat pan on medium-medium high heat adding some butter. Make sure the butter is melted but not burning. Crack open your eggs and into the pan they go. Put your bread in the toaster. What I did was I kept the eggs just on the one side for about 2-3 mins. No flipping necessary. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Once eggs are done, toast will be done. Butter toast, place eggs on toast and done..Enjoy :)
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
The Switch
Flour is made from wheat berries. The wheat berry is made up of
the bran, the germ and the endosperm. All parts are filled with
nutrients and are used in whole wheat flour.
the bran, the germ and the endosperm. All parts are filled with
nutrients and are used in whole wheat flour.
White bread on the other hand, uses only the endosperm - the
starchy inner layer. There is a total of 30 nutrients missing in
white bread. The nutritional difference is immense and has
measurable impact on our health.
starchy inner layer. There is a total of 30 nutrients missing in
white bread. The nutritional difference is immense and has
measurable impact on our health.
The fiber content of whole wheat bread has several health benefits. Fiber helps the digestive system and it is shown that men and women who eat high fiber foods have less risk of having a heart attack and stroke. There is a risk of children getting diabetes for those that eat refined white flour.
Look out for words like 'wheat flour' or 'enriched wheat flour'
as they can be mostly made from white flour with just a small
amount of whole wheat added in.
as they can be mostly made from white flour with just a small
amount of whole wheat added in.
Look for 'whole wheat' or other whole grains, like oat. And don't
be mislead by the name of the product. Names like wheat, whole
bran, stoned wheat, 12 grain and others are still mostly white
flour. The only way to know for sure is to read the label.
be mislead by the name of the product. Names like wheat, whole
bran, stoned wheat, 12 grain and others are still mostly white
flour. The only way to know for sure is to read the label.
Brown Rice is similar.
Here is some information about brown and white rice.
Here is some information about brown and white rice.
The process that produces brown rice removes only the outermost layer, the hull, of the rice kernel and is the least damaging to its nutritional value.
The complete milling and polishing that converts brown rice into white rice destroys 67% of the vitamin B3, 80% of the vitamin B1, 90% of the vitamin B6, half of the manganese, half of the phosphorus, 60% of the iron, and all of the dietary fiber and essential fatty acids. Fully milled and polished white rice is required to be "enriched" with vitamins B1, B3 and iron.
Nutrients in
Brown Rice
1.00 cup (195.00 grams)
Brown Rice
1.00 cup (195.00 grams)
Nutrient%Daily Value
manganese88%
selenium27.3%
magnesium20.9%
tryptophan18.7%
Calories (216)12%
Some other benefits of brown rice include
- Manganese—Energy Production Plus Antioxidant Protection - Just one cup of brown rice will provide you with 88.0% of the daily value of manganese.
- Women Who Eat Whole Grains Weigh Less - gain less weight from eating whole grains.
- Brown Rice is Rich in Fiber and Selenium
- Lower Cholesterol with Whole Brown Rice
- Significant Cardiovascular Benefits for Postmenopausal Women
- Brown Rice and Other Whole Grains Substantially Lower Type 2 Diabetes Risk
and many more
for more info about white and brown rice check out http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=128
White and Brown Sugar
White and Brown Sugar
When it comes to white sugar and brown sugar there isn't much of a difference from what I can find. Nutritional value is almost the same. White sugar is bleached white in the refining process and brown sugar is naturally brown but companies tend to add molasses to give it a "more" brown color. Basically personal preference is the case. Now if you are talking pure Raw Sugar this tends to be more beneficial and has more nutrients. Avoid Sweeteners at all cost as these are load with chemicals that are extremely harmful.
More info about Raw sugar here is a link - http://www.naturalorganiclifestyle.com/unrefined-raw-sugar.html
More info about Raw sugar here is a link - http://www.naturalorganiclifestyle.com/unrefined-raw-sugar.html
So why not make the switch?? It will be worth it.
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Sauteed Spinach
Tonight for dinner I decided to make some sauteed spinach and hummus bruschetta. The flavors of these two mix very well. Its a real simple dinner to make when wanting something light to eat for dinner or just want a snack. The bruschetta will go really well at a dinner party, small get together, potluck etc. These are two simple recipes that I know you will enjoy.
Sauteed Spinach
Ingredients
3-4 garlic cloves, crushed
2 tbsp of olive oil
pepper
salt
Directions
Peel and dice or crush your garlic. Put the 2 tbsp of olive oil in a frying pan. Heat frying pan on medium-high heat. Add garlic then empty bag of spinach into a deep frying pan. (The garlic will cook really fast once the pan is warm so be sure not to burn it). Saute the garlic for about 30secs then add the spinach. Cook for about 2-3 mins till the spinach is wilted but not slimy. Serve adding pepper and salt to taste.
Serves 2 (Depending on bag size)
Hummus Bruschetta
This bruschetta was really easy to make. What I decided to use was some organic sour dough bread as this adds to the flavor. I think you get a really nice crunch out of it as well.
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Ingredients
6-8 Slices of Sour Dough (more of less depending on how much you want)
Olive oil
1 Tomato
1 Garlic Clove or 6-8 Roasted Garlic cloves (Refer to my Roasted Pepper Bruschetta for directions on Roasted Garlic. If you don't have time use just a normal garlic clove)
Hummus (Refer to my Hummus Recipe)
Paprika
Pepper
Directions
Toast the sour dough slices to desired texture. Once done, take your tomato and slice. Take one of the slices and rub slice of toast. The slice of tomato should do about 2 slices of toast. Then rub with a garlic clove (or spread with roasted garlic clove). Spread hummus over bruschetta, drizzle with olive oil then sprinkle with paprika and pepper. Serve
Serves 3-4 if using 2 slices per person
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Ingredients
6-8 Slices of Sour Dough (more of less depending on how much you want)
Olive oil
1 Tomato
1 Garlic Clove or 6-8 Roasted Garlic cloves (Refer to my Roasted Pepper Bruschetta for directions on Roasted Garlic. If you don't have time use just a normal garlic clove)
Hummus (Refer to my Hummus Recipe)
Paprika
Pepper
Directions
Toast the sour dough slices to desired texture. Once done, take your tomato and slice. Take one of the slices and rub slice of toast. The slice of tomato should do about 2 slices of toast. Then rub with a garlic clove (or spread with roasted garlic clove). Spread hummus over bruschetta, drizzle with olive oil then sprinkle with paprika and pepper. Serve
The Benefits of Spinach
Benefits of spinach are - It’s low in calories yet very high in vitamins, minerals and other phytonutrients. When you consume this healthy food, you don’t need to worry about your weight-loss diet as you take in abundant, good-for-you nutrients.
Spinach is an excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin A, magnesium, folate, manganese, iron, calcium, vitamin C, vitamin B2, potassium, and vitamin B6. It’s a very good source of protein, phosphorus, vitamin E, zinc, dietary fiber, and copper. Plus, it’s a good source of selenium, niacin, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Spinach is loaded with flavonoids which act as antioxidants, protecting the body from free radicals. Researchers have discovered at least 13 different flavonoid compounds that act as anti-cancer substances. The various nutrients offer much in the way of disease protection.
The mineral iron is particularly important for menstruating women and growing children and adolescents. In comparison to red meat, spinach provides a lot less calories, is fat and cholesterol free, and an excellent source of iron. Because iron is a component of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to all body cells, it’s needed for good energy.
Another of the benefits of spinach is that this is a heart-healthy food. It’s an outstanding source of vitamins C and A which are antioxidants that help reduce free radical amounts in the body. The antioxidants work to keep cholesterol from oxidizing. In addition, folate is good for a healthy cardiovascular system, as well as magnesium, a mineral that helps to lower high blood pressure.
Gastrointestinal health can be guarded by eating more of this food. The beta-carotene and vitamin C work to protect the cells of the body’s colon from the harmful effects of free radicals. Also, DNA damage and mutations in colon cells may be prevented by the folate that’s present in this green leafy vegetable. Some conditions that are identified as inflammatory, such as arthritis, osteoporosis, migraine headaches, and asthma, may be helped because of the anti-inflammatory properties of some of the nutrients found in spinach. Studies have shown that consumption of green leafy vegetables such as spinach may slow the age-related decline in brain function.
Whats the outcome..eat spinach :)
The Benefits of Juicing
If you are looking for an easy and effective way to do something good for you body, consider the health benefits of juicing. Juicing is preparing and drinking fruit and vegetable juices, and the many health benefits of juicing far exceed those of eating solid fruits and vegetables.
For one thing, the body can quickly absorb larger amounts of nutrients from juices than from solid foods because the process of digestion that is necessary when you eat whole foods is bypassed. Raw fruits and vegetables contain many substances that enhance health, and juicing benefits the body by providing the most concentrated and readily absorbed source of these substances.
Another one of the major health benefits of juicing is that it is an easy way to get beneficial enzymes, which are primarily found in raw foods, into the body. Enzymes in fresh fruits and vegetables have the vital role of converting food into body tissue and energy. Enzymes are also involved in metabolism, so one of the more valuable health benefits of juicing is that it can increase metabolic rate. Juicing also ensures that the body is getting sufficient amounts of phytochemicals, substances in plants that are considered among the most powerful ways to fight disease. While most people do not eat enough raw fruits and vegetables to obtain the amount of phytochemicals that would make a difference, it is relatively easy to drink enough juice to obtain sufficient amounts of these powerful nutrients. In addition, antioxidants and other immune enhancing properties are concentrated in juices.
Juicing can therefore help to accelerate recovery from illness. In fact, juicing with specific combinations of fruits or vegetables can target particular conditions and improve or alleviate symptoms.
More Health Benefits of Juicing
Among the most interesting health benefits of juicing are its anti-aging benefits and its potential for alleviating symptoms of depression. The effects of juicing on depression are accomplished by providing a concentrated source of minerals like magnesium, potassium, iron, calcium, and folic acid. Deficiencies of these nutrients are associated with symptoms of depression.
Further, the concentration of antioxidants in juices combats the damaging effects that free radicals have on skin and muscle. Juicing can help keep skin free from wrinkles and muscles well toned. In addition, increasing the intake of antioxidants by juicing can slow the onset of age-related illnesses
In conjunction with its positive effects on health, the benefits of juicing also include the fact that it is relatively cost effective and convenient, especially if you prepare your own juices. By staying healthy as a result of increasing your intake of fresh juices, you can also reduce the need for expensive medications. Since there are no side effects associated with juicing, you can drink as much juice as you are able to tolerate, thereby maximizing health benefits. There are many combinations of fruits and vegetables, and the variety of juices that can be prepared are likely to keep you in the habit of juicing once you realize the many health benefits that doing so can provide.
Herb of the week/MindTrac
Are you feeling stressed, depressed or have anxiety? Here is a herb that is a great alternative to ant-depression drugs etc. This also will help you have clarity of mind and to focus. Its called MindTrac.
MindTrac™ is an Alternative to drugs for Depression, Anxiety, Stress & Hyperactivity
MindTrac™ will benefit: Adults, Adolescents/Children, Seniors
MindTrac™ contains properties similar to its drug counterparts without harmful chemicals.
Psychiatric drugs are far more dangerous to take than people realize. They have negative side effects including addiction, and they can produce withdrawal symptoms that are emotionally and physically distressing or even life-threatening. The herbs in MindTrac are formulated to support and heal the body naturally in response to stress. Drugs are used to treat the symptoms, NOT to cure the problem.
Cleanses - Science continues to show that the mind and the body are connected. Stress creates biochemicals which circulate along with the blood. Because the liver is already burdened by pollutants, these "stressful" by-products are less likely to be eliminated quickly. To reduce the burden on the liver, MindTrac contains three herbs - Sarsaparilla, Dandelion and Oregon Grape Root - to cleanse the blood and to stimulate liver detoxification.
Nourishes: A food base of Jurassic Green (flash dried Alfalfa, Barley, and Kamut) supplies the body with essential vitamins and minerals in an all natural form. B vitamins, Chlorophyll, Calcium, Magnesium, and Potassium help regulate nerve transmission and muscle response.
Stimulates: St. John's Wort has been proven in scientific studies to mimic the effects of antidepressant drugs. It is so effective that we strongly advise against combining this herb with any antidepressant drug. To transition safely from prescription medicine to natural healing, check out our product called Liver Formula™.
MindTrac contains two additional stimulants, Gotu Kola and Gingko Biloba, to synergize the St. John's Wort herb! By improving the blood flow and oxygen circulation to the head, these herbs have been used traditionally to improve memory, nerve response and mental alertness.
Calms: Scullcap and Valerian root are both nervine sedatives and antispasmodics. Besides their calming nature on the nerves and muscles, these herbs promote regular and restful sleep. Mullein and Lobelia are antispasmodics as well as cleansers. They help cleanse the blood by assisting the lymph and the glandular systems.
For more information check out http://www.herbsfirst.com/
MindTrac™ contains: Skullcap, Valerian, Oregon Grape root, Barley grass, Alfalfa, Kamut, St. John's wort, Mullein leaf, Lobelia, Gotu Kola, Ginkgo biloba, Sarsaparilla and Dandelion. All encapsulated products are in a pure 100% vegetable based capsule.
Mindtrac™ is an Emotional Clarity Herbal FormulaMindTrac™ is an Alternative to drugs for Depression, Anxiety, Stress & Hyperactivity
MindTrac™ will benefit: Adults, Adolescents/Children, Seniors
MindTrac™ contains properties similar to its drug counterparts without harmful chemicals.
Psychiatric drugs are far more dangerous to take than people realize. They have negative side effects including addiction, and they can produce withdrawal symptoms that are emotionally and physically distressing or even life-threatening. The herbs in MindTrac are formulated to support and heal the body naturally in response to stress. Drugs are used to treat the symptoms, NOT to cure the problem.
Cleanses - Science continues to show that the mind and the body are connected. Stress creates biochemicals which circulate along with the blood. Because the liver is already burdened by pollutants, these "stressful" by-products are less likely to be eliminated quickly. To reduce the burden on the liver, MindTrac contains three herbs - Sarsaparilla, Dandelion and Oregon Grape Root - to cleanse the blood and to stimulate liver detoxification.
Nourishes: A food base of Jurassic Green (flash dried Alfalfa, Barley, and Kamut) supplies the body with essential vitamins and minerals in an all natural form. B vitamins, Chlorophyll, Calcium, Magnesium, and Potassium help regulate nerve transmission and muscle response.
Stimulates: St. John's Wort has been proven in scientific studies to mimic the effects of antidepressant drugs. It is so effective that we strongly advise against combining this herb with any antidepressant drug. To transition safely from prescription medicine to natural healing, check out our product called Liver Formula™.
MindTrac contains two additional stimulants, Gotu Kola and Gingko Biloba, to synergize the St. John's Wort herb! By improving the blood flow and oxygen circulation to the head, these herbs have been used traditionally to improve memory, nerve response and mental alertness.
Calms: Scullcap and Valerian root are both nervine sedatives and antispasmodics. Besides their calming nature on the nerves and muscles, these herbs promote regular and restful sleep. Mullein and Lobelia are antispasmodics as well as cleansers. They help cleanse the blood by assisting the lymph and the glandular systems.
For more information check out http://www.herbsfirst.com/
DISCLAIMER
Remember I'm not a doctor or professional herbalist. I'm just getting the info out there for people to know there is an alternative to everyday medicine. For more info you should check out http://www.herbsfirst.com to have a professional speak with you about what this herb can do, dosage etc..