good food

For a while now, I've been trying to phase out certain processed foods from our diet.  Fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and soy instead of dairy products have been a mainstay for quite a few years now.  I don't hink I have to say that fast food has been out as well.

We used to eat Mcdonalds once a week ( egad!) and I'm happy to say that I havent had a soda in 7 years.

So, lately, I've been looking at other processed foods we eat.  I read recently that canned goods, in addition to plastics,  have BPA's as well.

I was like dammit!  is nothing safe?!

Our main canned item is beans.

Not being a meat eater, I cook with beans quite a bit.   Hummus,black bean quesadillas, etc.

Dried bean are also cheaper than canned.

Saving money and lowering exposure to chems.  Now that's what I call a winning combo!

So, I found this RECIPE  from the sensuous Nigella and decided to give it a go with my dried cannelloni beans.  I soaked the beans overnight and then the next day slowly simmered for an hour and fifteen.  LYNNE ROSSETTO KASPER will explain.

It's very tasty!  It exudes wholesomeness and hearty.  I think it's going to be a great thing to eat in the coming autumn (chilly!) weather.

My other processed item to be shameful for is mayonnaise.

God knows I love me some Hellmanns.

When no one is looking, I lick the knife.

I found a RECIPE on Martha's website.

Although I was pretty pumped to have created mayonnaise in my own kitchen (!!)  it didn't taste as great as I thought it would.  A bit on the lemony side.  So, I've found ANOTHER ONE another one to try that claims to taste like Hellmanns. 

We'll see about that.

I made mayo!  I'm a culinary wizard!

My other issue has been time.

I've been known to get into the mood to cook and spend a few hours in the kitchen trying new recipes.

But more often than not, I just want something quick.

Now, don't get me wrong, I LOOOVE to eat but sometimes it's just inconvenient.  I want to get it and get out.  Fill the hunger void, avoid lightheaded moodiness, and just get on with what I was doing.

I like quick to prepare  meals/snacks that go the distance when it comes to energy.

I found a great article in a yoga magazine with some good ideas like hummus, whole wheat crackers, edamame, etc.  

This great recipe for GRANOLA BARS has been a huge hit.  You'd be suprised how long the energy sticks with you.   instead of dry milk, I use protein powder.  I've also added pecans instead of walnuts, and dates in addition to the raisins.  I stick them in my purse when I don't know when I'll be eating next.

Next time: homemade cheese!  

I'm kidding.

Maybe.