Parsnips, are a prized cream colored, conical shaped root vegetable with a  naturally sweet and nutty anise flavor.  In Europe, parsnips were a source of sugar, even before cane and beet sugars - that's how sweet they are. And when prepared correctly, I guarantee you'll have a hard time controlling your fingers as they reach for more.

It's a good thing then that they are loaded with fiber, low in fat, and are a good source of folate, vitamin C, and manganese (if eating 1 cup or more/occasion) as well. These nutrients are essential in maintaining a healthy immune system, good for heart and gut health, healing wounds, and building bones. 

Looking for inspiration in the kitchen? Try some of the following techniques and flavor pairings to increase your vegetable intake. 

Techniques: 
​bake, blanch, boil, braise, 
deep-fry, fry, grate, grill, 
mash, pressure-cook puree, 
roast, simmer, steam

Flavor affinities: 
apple, butter, carrot, celery root, 
Parmesan, chives, cinnamon, coriander, curry, dates,
garlic, ginger, honey, leeks, lemon, lentils,
maple, mint, mushrooms, mustard, nutmeg, onion parsley, other root vegetables, potatoes, pumpkin, 
​thyme, turmeric

A few favorite combos:
parsnip + carrots + fennel + sweet potatoes
parsnip + lentil + curry 
parsnip + chestnut + mushroom + parmesan

Nigel Slater, a highly-regarded food author (and one of my personal favorites) published a fantastic book called The Christmas Chronicles in 2017. In it, he describes his love of winter weather - the way the cold air rushes through his lungs, and the often-overlooked bounty that comes in cold-weather climates.

Every year, when the weather grows cold and Minnesota winter takes hold, I am inspired to embrace the season the way he does - sub-zero temperatures and frigid winds are something to be celebrated, not shunned. This year, I decided to create my own version of his parsnip loaf, fine-tuning it using ingredients from my own backyard, and giving it a healthier spin - this recipe is loaded with healthy fats, plant-based protein, and homemade pear applesauce from the pear tree growing just outside my bedroom window. 

This dish is especially appealing on these cold, wintery days served with a healthy serving of mushroom gravy. This recipe relies on the backbone of parsnips sweetness to deliver you a vegetarian mainstay in your recipe repertoire. 

Makes 1  larger loaf OR 3 minis
500g (~5 oz) parsnip, grated 
250g (~2.5 oz) carrot, grated
3/4 c pear applesauce
3 tablespoons avocado oil
1 large onion, minced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp dill seed
2 tbsp sesame seeds, toasted
1 tbsp fennel seeds, toasted
3 tbsp sunflower seeds
2 tbsp poppyseeds
1 tbsp chopped thyme
2 large eggs, whisked

Sauté parsnip and carrot in 2 tbsp oil for 5 minutes, then add pear applesauce. Remove from pan and place in a large mixing bowl. Add remaining oil and sauté onion until translucent, then add garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes. Remove from pan and add to parsnip, carrot mix - add salt and pepper to taste. Combine remaining ingredients (seeds, thyme, and eggs) in the mixing bowl and spoon into prepared loaf pan(s). Bake at 400F for 40-50 minutes until cooked throughout.

Many farmers and gardeners wait as the weather cools for a few frosts before they harvest their parsnips, as the parsnips become sweeter when they stay in frozen ground - they can be left in the ground all winter long when covered with a thick layer of mulch. As soon as the ground thaws in the spring, they should be harvested for optimum sweetness.

If you're looking to plant parsnips, visit the Farmer's Almanac for more detailed information. It's a wonderful resource for planting other crops in other seasons as well. ​

COVID-19 has kept many of us in isolation. This can wreak havoc on your overall health, from rising stress levels, to inactivity, to unhealthy eating and drinking habits. It's easy to let yourself go when no one else is looking, but your body is always paying attention. If you don't have the tools to succeed, now is the time to reach out to your local dietitians - like me, for example - to ask what you can do to stay healthy during this time.

While many were hoarding toilet paper and hand sanitizer, my mind went immediately to fresh produce. My selection of dried grains and beans, vinegars, spices, oils, and other canned and jarred items are all well-stocked - mostly because they usually are: You never know when you'll want to get creative with an oddball ingredient like, say, tamarind paste or flaked green rice. Luckily, I also had plenty of homemade preserved foods, like orange marmalade, kimchi by the gallon, preserved lemons, dozens of canned stewed tomatoes, hot pepper tomato jelly, and an assortment of canned pickled vegetables.

As the crowds began to lessen, I  made my way to East Side Coop in NE Minneapolis, which is nearby one of my work locations, where the veggies and fruits were pouring from their bins. The aisles of dried goods, on the other hand, were bare and empty, with only a few canned goods remaining. I filled my basket with hearty greens, starchy vegetables (like squash and potatoes), onions, Brussels sprouts, fennel, carrots, and other luscious, plump produce just waiting to be devoured. 

Afterwards, I went home to further assess my pantry. 

A few days later, I thought to go to a nearby Asian market, Little Saigon (signage still has the former name, Ha Tien, just fyi), to add a few more items to my kitchen. The shelves there were lush with beans, grains, and shelf-stable foodstuffs - perhaps no one else had thought to look at this local gem? The refrigerators too were flowing with tofu, several varieties of mushrooms (yes, I bought pounds of these to later dehydrate), herbs, and eggplant.  I also couldn't resist purchasing a couple packages of rice noodles, and a Bahn mi from the deli (with all the necessary social distancing, of course).

Governor Tim Walz, earlier today (3/25/2020), told the citizens of St.Paul that we will be  "sheltering in place" beginning this Friday (3/29) 11:59 PM.

For more information on isolation and sheltering in place, watch the video here. ​

Before making one last big run to the grocery store to stock up on what you need, make sure to plan ahead; I'd suggest a bit of meal planning first to understand exactly what you'll need to not only ensure proper nutrition, but also to avoid food waste. Feel free to reference a few of the items I mentioned previously - these things are always good to keep on hand.

On that note, one obvious tip is to choose foods that don't spoil quickly. However, this isn't always avoidable. If fresh produce begins to go bad, think of strategies to use them in unique ways, like incorporating your fruits and greens into smoothies, for example, or freezing/preserving for another use at a later date, or in a soup!

Another good way to eat well throughout this quarantine is to make it a game. Something I do with my partner Adrian is a game we like to call 'Home Chopped' when we're running low on certain ingredients. If you have ever seen the Food Network show Chopped, you probably understand the concept, but while this is certainly similar, it's also slightly different: In 'Home Chopped' we pool together 8 ingredients that are about to expire, or those we want to incorporate, then, one-by-one, we take turns to select one of the 8 ingredients for the other person. We have 30 minutes to make a dish and then we sit down to eat. Judging is not allowed. In fact, we discourage it. We simply eat, and enjoy the process instead. 

One more suggestion: Take advice from professionals on YouTube and other social media platforms. They are blowing up with cooking videos. Take a look at how to cook something new, or learn how to perfect a specific technique. You probably have a bit of extra time on your hands as social activities, and many places of work, have been shut down. Learning is important in this time of isolation - knowledge is the only thing that cannot be taken away from you. Take this time to expand your cooking knowledge.

And, as aways, reach out to me for recipe ideas, or with any questions you might have. 

Hopefully you are not completely self-isolated and can be with friends or family at least some of the time. There must be attention on this topic, as, for better or for worse, habits are going to change the more time we spend alone. This includes the things you eat. It's not an easy subject to approach, so I'll expand in a future post, but to be concise, it's ultimately going to affect your relationship with food. Decisions about what you eat can be influenced by your day, mood, budget, access to food, stress, and, simply, how much time you have to sit around.

If you don't have someone to enjoy your meals with, I would suggest a virtual dinner date with a friend or loved one to make it more social and a bit less lonely - it's worked for me so far, as I had to do for my birthday last Sunday.

Here is a simple recipe to get you started on your quarantine cooking adventure. Leave a comment below and share a few ideas of your own.

This is a sneak peak from my new Easy Prediabetic cookbook, expected to be released August 2020.

Tahini Dressing
Makes 1 cup
Prep 5 min
 
1/3 cup tahini
1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 2 each)
1 tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons maple syrup
2/3 cup filtered water
Kosher salt
Pepper
 
In a small mixing bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, olive oil, maple syrup, water, and salt and pepper to taste. Adjust consistency by adding more water or olive oil.


Simple Tahini Kale Salad
Serves 2 to 4
Prep 5 to 10 minutes

1 bunch kale, shredded
1 cup cooked squash, cubed or forked (i.e. spaghetti)
Tahini Dressing (above)
2 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
1/4 cup raw pumpkin seeds
1/8 cup pickled onions (optional)

In a bowl, combine all ingredients: kale, cooked squash, tahini, feta, seeds, and onions. Mix well and serve. If you don't want to eat immediately, this dressed salad will keep for 8 hours. Store the dressing separately if you do not plan to eat the salad that day.

Want additional protein? Add shredded chicken, cubed tofu, or cooked beans/lentils as well.



Like what you see? Be sure to cook other tasty meals like the Brazilian Fish Stew  or the Kofte
Be sure to check back for new posts on other Isolation recipes.

Coconut oil is obtained from the from the dried nut (fruit) of the coconut palm made up of 52 - 85% medium-chain fatty acids commonly used as a moisturizer or conditioner for skin or hair.  Topically, coconut oil is used for psoriasis, eczema, dry skin, and preventing hair damage, and current research suggests it might possibly be effective for eczema treatment as well. Application of virgin coconut oil 5 mL twice daily for 8 weeks results in two-fold more patients and reduces symptom severity by about 30% more than mineral oil in children (1). Preliminary clinical research shows applying coconut oil twice daily improves skin moisture and skin lipid levels in patients with mild to moderate dry skin. They also found coconut oil to be comparable to mineral oil. The results for psoriasis are mixed, suggesting more evidence is needed (1).

What about "virgin" coconut oil? 

Unlike olive oil, there is no industry standard for the meaning of "virgin" or "extra virgin" coconut oil. It is, however, meant colloquially as unprocessed, that which has not been bleached, undergone refinement, or deodorization.  

And "cold pressed"? 

This generally means the process of extracting the oil is done without any external heat source.

Instead, look for brands that are "unrefined", which means the oil is from fresh coconut meat, not dried. When oil is extracted from fresh and is unrefined, the process is quick and simple without requiring high heat, bleaching/deodorizing, or additives. There are many to choose from, but if you're looking for an ethical, fair trade brand with all the bells and whistle's, then choose ​Nutiva. There are few other notable brands, but this is the easiest to find.  

Matcha is a high-grade green tea ground into a powdered form. Originally, it was consumed in China and later brought to Japan in the early 12th century by Chinese Buddhist monks. Unlike in China, it quickly gained popularity as ceremonial drinking tea in Japan, developed as a spiritual practice of the practice of harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility. 

Topically, green tea is used to soothe sunburn, as a compression for headaches or tired eyes, used as a poultice for bags under the eyes, and to prevent skin damage from the sun and other environmental causes (3).  Additionally, it's shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in human skin with anti-aging effects by decreasing inflammation and scavenging free radicals (4). When green tea is combined with traditional sunscreens, there may be an additive or synergistic protective effect. Also, found to improve wound healing (3, 4).

Lavender belongs to the family of Lamiaceae and contains linalool and linalyl acetate, which are responsible for sedative and narcotic actions. Together, they can promote anti-anxiety effects, help with sleep disturbance, improve the feeling of well being, support mental alertness, suppress aggression, and promotes wound healing (5).

Lavender Coconut Body Scrub

1 cup coconut oil at room temperature
2 cups sugar
10-20 drops lavender essential oil

In a food processor, add the sugar and process until sugar breaks down into a fine powder. You can omit this step, but your skin would prefer for you follow this suggestion.
Then, in a stand mixer, whip the coconut oil with the sugar. While the machine is running, add the lavender essential oil. 
Pack in jar - optional - top with dried lavender flowers and fit with a lid.

Use: This can be used every 1-2 weeks on your face, neck, hand, legs, arms... everywhere! Allow to sit on the skin after scrubbing for up to 5 minutes, then rinse.

Storage: Keep away from moisture and have a spoon handy to scoop out the body scrub to avoid contact with water.

Matcha Moisturizer

1 cup coconut oil at room temperature
2 tablespoons matcha powder

In a bowl, mix coconut oil with matcha until uniform. Pack in a jar with a fitted lid.

Use: This can be used daily on your entire body. It will not turn your skin green, despite it's dark green color. 

Coconut Hair Mask 

(makes 1)
2-4 tablespoons coconut oil at room temperature
5-8 drops essential oil*

Mix ingredients thoroughly and apply to hair (not scalp). Leave in for 30-60 minutes, then rinse. 
It may take several days for the oil to come out, and it entirely depends on your hair. Some say warm water while others use an egg wash OR a combination of shampoo and conditioner.

*Essential oils for the scalp will depend on the condition of your hair.
Here's a list to help navigate:
Tea Tree Oil - for flakiness and dandruff
Peppermint Oil - for greasy and dry hair with cooling effect, promotes hair growth
Lemon Oil - for oily hair
Lavender Oil - for all types
Rosemary Oil - for all types

Like what you see? Check out more body care by exploring citrus for the skin as well.

Thanksgiving is less than a week away. Maybe you're one to keep with tradition and use the same recipes over and over -OR- maybe you're looking to put a spin on a classic. If you fall into the later category, and would like to try something so simple and delicious, then look no further: Squash is the theme, and your family will certainly give thanks if you bring one of my favorite dishes, squash agrodolce (scroll down for recipe). This sweet-savory autumn specialty is one of my go-to recipes - requiring very little effort to make, and a short list of ingredients. 

Before we get to the recipe, some things to say about winter squash:

Evidence shows humans have been eating squash for over 12,000 years. Buttercup, butternut, delicata, hubbard, kabocha, pumpkin, and acorn (to name just a few) are the most notable winter squash varieties. But, here in the Midwest, we are especially blessed: We have a large selection of unique varieties like sweet dumpling, blue hokkaido, "Cinderella pumpkins" like rouge vif d'etampes and long island cheese, red kuri, turban, sugar pie, and white pumpkins. 

Whew, that's a lot. Rather than go into each flavor profile and use, I'll recommend you visit the Spruce Eats, as they do a lovely job explaining the differences and history. 

​
More squash facts

Season: autumn - winter
Taste: starchy to sweet once cooked, nutty
Nutrition: mostly carbs (the healthier ones), some protein, and very little fat
Volume: quiet to moderate
Technique: bake, boil, braise, grill, pickle, puree roast, sauté, steam, stew, stuff 
Favorite Flavor combos:
winter squash + ginger + pear + cinnamon
winter squash + cashews + cilantro + coconut + curry
winter squash + garlic + leeks + olive
winter squash + thyme + garlic + olive + shallots
winter squash + kale + red onion + apples

Build your own recipes by using complimentary flavors from these foods: 

fruit: APPLES, including JUICE & CIDER, dates, fig, pear, quince, raisins
beans (navy, black beans, garbanzo, butter, adzuki)
butter
spices: cardamom, cayenne, CINNAMON, cloves, coriander, CURRY, CUMIN, nutmeg, turmeric, GINGER
nuts: cashews, chestnuts, walnut, pistachio, pecan
veggies: cauliflower, celery, carrot, bell peppers, corn, fennel, kale, leeks, mushrooms
mustard, greens, ONIONS, parsnip, radicchio, potatoes
CHEESE, e.g. blue, cheddar, feta, fontina, Gruyère, mozzarella, Parmesan, pecorino, ricotta, Romano
chiles
herbs: cilantro, mint, parsley, tarragon, thyme, sage, rosemary
COCONUT
eggs
GARLIC
honey
citrus: lemon, lime, orange
maple syrup
mirin
miso
olive
seeds: flax, pumpkin, sesame 
soy sauce
tofu

Serves 8 as a side
3 lbs winter squash (choose a variety: kabocha, delicata, butternut) cut into 1" pieces
2 tbs olive oil 
kosher salt and pepper
2 hot peppers, thinly sliced
3/4 cup red wine vinegar
1/4 cup honey
2 tbsp golden raisins
1 tsp red pepper flakes

Directions:
Preheat oven to 400F
Toss squash in a bowl with olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Lay on a baking sheet evenly and cook until squash has cooked completely, golden brown in color and tender, about 20-25 minutes. If you have many varieties of squash and/or do not cut them into the same size, use separate baking sheets. 

Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, add chiles, vinegar, honey, raisins, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, then reduce to simmer, and reduce until consistency is thick and syrupy, about 10 minutes. 

Brush half of the warm agrodolce sauce over the squash and when ready to eat, top off the squash with the remaining sauce. Finish with freshly cracked black pepper and sea salt. 

Substitutions:
-because we don't always have what the recipe calls for on hand-
red wine vinegar --> cider vinegar --> white wine 
honey --> maple syrup 

Look familiar? If not, you're one of many who have overlooked these gnarly bulbous vegetables at the market. They go by several names, including turnip-rooted celery, knob celery, celeriac, and celery root - regardless of the name, they are the same delicious plant.

Most prefer to eat the bulbous hypocotyl or edible stem, but the leaves and shoots are often left behind to rot in the fields or in waste bins by consumers. If you're one of those, I urge you to think twice before wasting such exciting edible nutrition. Each shoot and leaf offers an explosion of flavor; delicate and vibrant. 

How do I use them in my cooking? 

I use them in place of celery stalks, as a garnish, pickled in vinegar, in soups/stews, and more. The key is to cut off the stems/leaves immediately before storing. This will ensure longevity and freshness of the bulbous hypocotyl - they can last 6-8 months this way without losing an ounce of flavor.

The bulb of the plant is commonly baked, boiled, braised, deep-fried, grated, mashed, pressure-cooked, puréed, or eaten raw, roasted, or sautéed. Its season is shorter than most - autumn through spring - and its flavor is not as loud as the most-common celery cultivar seen in grocery stores throughout the year. Think of celeriac as a subtle, celery-flavored potato. 

Sure, these guys may look a bit intimidating at first, but they are quite easy to prepare in the kitchen. Wait to wash and trim the bulb until you're ready to cook it. The greens -stalks and leaves- should be trimmed immediately as mentioned earlier, as, if left intact, they will draw out moisture from the bulb. Ultimately, this will shorten the life from 6 months to just a few weeks at-most.

BULB: Cut away the roots and peel away the outer layer when ready to cook. Browning occurs rapidly once the flesh is cut. Optional - soak in a bowl of water with a touch of lemon juice. 
LEAVES & STALKS: Wash and separate leaves from stalks until ready for use. This can be done a few days in advance without compromising flavor, but be sure to store in a clean tea towel in the crisper of the refrigerator.
​
Some of my favorite celeriac flavor pairings include: ​

apples
butter
CHEESE, i.e. Comté, Gruyere, Parmesan, Pecorino
chestnuts
eggs
fennel
hazelnuts
leeks, all onions really
mushrooms
MUSTARD
​pumpkin
root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, turnips, rutabaga
spices: thyme, rosemary, tarragon
watercress
yogurt

Favorite flavor combo's include: 

celery root + apples + celery + mustard
celery root + fennel + hazelnuts + lemon + garlic
celery root + rosemary + rutabaga
celery root + garlic + parsnip + potatoes + thyme
celery root + chanterelles + wild rice + leek

Serves 6
1 celeriac, cut into 1 " cubes
3 waxy potatoes, cut into 1 " cubes
2 cloves garlic, whole
1 bayleaf
2 tbsp dried lavender
1/4 cup heavy cream
3 tbsp butter
1 whole onion, diced
1/2 tbsp thyme, dried
salt and pepper

Directions: 
In a large pot, combine celeriac, potatoes, garlic, bay leaf, and lavender. Fill with water, just enough to cover the vegetables. Add a large pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, and cook for 20 minutes OR until potatoes/roots are cooked throughout. 

Meanwhile, sauté onions in butter with thyme. 

Strain the vegetables when cooked, discard the lavender and bayleaf, and reserve the cooking water. This water will be used to thin the soup to the desired consistency. 

In a blender, combine vegetables, cooked onions, and heavy cream. Purée until desired consistency is reached using the vegetable water. Season according to taste with salt and pepper. 

Garnish optional: celery root leaves and olive oil drizzle.

Substitutions:
lavender --> rosemary
​heavy cream --> milk or plant-based milk
butter --> olive oil

The now-ubiquitous dolma has a long and complicated history -  they were first mentioned over two millenia ago, when it appeared as a food in Crete at Knossos, the Minoan palace. After the Turkish conquest of Constantinople in 1453, the dolma became increasingly common fare as the ruling Ottoman Empire expanded.

A dolma, in its most-basic form, is a vegetable or fruit hollowed out, but with the skin intact for nuts, meats, rice, and/or other fruits and vegetables mixed together and stuffed as a filling. Ancient Persian and Greek societies used stuffed vine leaves; the dish then modernized in the 15th century as peppers were substituted for vine leaves.

Initially, dolmas were exclusively enjoyed by the Sultan, his Grand Vizier, and a few other courtiers who had the privilege to dine at the Topkapi palace (see pics below from my recent visit). Many were excited to try something exotic like the dolma, and over time it trickled down to the lower echelons of Ottoman society, and, eventually, to peasant families as well. 

During the 16th and 17th centuries, Suleiman the Magnificent was reining at the height of the Ottoman Empires power, wielding influence and control over much of Southeast Europe, parts of Central Europe, Western Asia, Eastern Europe and the Caucasus, Northern Africa, and the Horn of Africa.

As a major food of Ottoman Empire's "Golden Age" the dolma still holds a strong place in Turkish culture today. It is also an important focal point of the culinary tradition in Azerbaijan - in 2017, it was included into the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Lists for the country. In some places, however, like Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan, dolmas are now - pointedly - eaten less-often: It is a symbol and reminder of an unsettling part of their history, hearkening back to a time when Turks were mercenaries, and then ruling oppressors, often wreaking havoc and violence in their lands. 
​

A glimpse into the Ottoman Empire from a recent trip to Istanbul.

This recipe is an inspiration from my recent trip to the Middle East and The Tiny Mess, a cookbook of recipes and stories from small kitchens. The book was featured as our cookbook club's October choice - be sure and check out the latest club news by signing up for the newsletter. ​

Makes ~30 
30 pickled vine leaves (i.e. grape)
1 1/2 cups wild rice
3 cups water or broth 
1 cup tomatoes, diced
3/4 tsp paprika
1/2 cup olive oil
1 yellow onion, minced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup fresh herbs, chopped (parsley, mint, & dill all work)
1/2 cup nuts, roasted and chopped*salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup dried fruit (optional, raisins, currants, cranberries)
*Keep it truly Minnesotan by selecting walnuts, hazelnuts, pecans, or chestnuts.

​Directions: 
Combine rice, water (or broth), tomatoes, and paprika in a pot with a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer and cook until rice is tender, roughly 40 minutes. 

Meanwhile, heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a pan. Once hot, add the onions and cook until translucent, then add the garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes, remove from heat. In a large bowl, combine the cooked onions/garlic with the herbs, nuts, and dried fruit. When rice is finished cooking, drain excess liquid and add to the herbed mixture. Adjust seasonings with salt and pepper. 

Lay each vine leaf flat, smooth-side down, so that the veins are facing upright towards you. Fill each leaf with about 2-3 tablespoons of filling. Fold two sides over the filling. Starting with the edge closest to you, pull the leaf over the rice and tuck tightly before rolling it taut. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling. 

​Serve rolled dolmas with wedges of lemon and drizzle remaining olive oil.

​
​Still hungry? Check out more delicious finds by looking at the recipe vault. These dolmas  pair beautifully with the Baharat spiced potato kibbeh and the lamb kofte. 

Carrots, the second most popular vegetable in the world, are having something of a moment. One might even say we're living in the golden age of carrots, as more varieties than ever are becoming available to the average shopper - including exciting heirloom varieties of antiquity.

First domesticated in Afghanistan, this refined version of Queen Anne's lace, a common weed, first began to spread far and wide during the Middle Ages - available in white, yellow, purple-black, violet, burgundy, and plum. The orange carrots we know and love today didn't become available until the Dutch got ahold of them sometime in the 16th century, as a nod to the royal House of Orange. These - of the Nantes and Imperator varieties - are now the most-common, bright orange with a delicious, earthy sweetness.

There are, however, other types that should certainly cross your palate as well. Here's . quick look at what you'll find at your local grocery, farmers market, or CSA:

Nantes are the easiest for home gardeners to grow. They're sweet and crisp, easy to store, and prefer rocky soil.

•  ’Bolero': high yielding
•  ‘Nelson’ : uniform shapes, perfect for eating
•  ‘Scarlet Nantes’ : sweet, deep orange color
•  ‘Yaya’: similar to ‘nelson’, but less sweet, good for fall sowing
• ‘Napa’: resistant to Alternanaria Blight and Powdery Mildew; deep orange; sweet; crisp
• ‘Touchon’: French heirloom; similar to ‘bolero’; sweet
• ‘Parano’: early ’nantes’; eat fresh, cooked, or juiced
•  ‘White satin’: white in color
•  ‘Merida’: storage-type bred for overwintering; plant in Sept/Oct; sweet
•  ‘Purple dragon’: longer in size; purple skin with bright orange core, but color fades when cooked; rich in phytochemicals
•  ‘Kaleidoscope mix’: a mix of 5 varieties
• ‘Cosmic purple’: violet on outside and orange in middle; retains color when cooked 

Imperator are classic, long, and what you’ll most-often find in stores. They require at least a foot of earth to grow; light, sandy loam soil is best.

• ‘Autumn King’
• ‘Atomic Red’: slim, best cooked; retains red color after cooking

Chantenay are short and stout, enjoy heavy or rocky soils, and are incredibly fast-growing.

• ‘Hercules’: great for rocky conditions or clay
• ‘Red-Cored Chantenay’: deep-orange; stays sweet when stored

Mini and Radish-style are grown in shallow root zones or in containers. They also perform well in heavy or rocky soils.

•  ‘Babette’: often served whole with the tops
•  ‘Romeo’: tiny (1-2”); resembling small beets; rich in flavor

The James Scarlet Intermediate dates from 1870, has a good girth and earthy flavor. Best to sow in May for December harvest.

De Djerba are from Tunisia in shades of violet, black, and orange.

We offer a base selection here to help you consider whether you'd like to grow your own carrots, but there are many more to explore if you are curious. Seed Savers Exchange is one of my go-to places to order seeds, including the aforementioned heirloom varieties. 

You might also be wondering if, other than color and size, there are nutritional differences among each variety....

And indeed there are. But only slight nutritional differences between carrot varieties. In general, they all contain high levels of vitamin A, are rich in fiber, and have a modest amount of vitamin K, vitamin C, and potassium.  Ultimately, carrots are good for your eyes, skin, teeth, immune system, and digestive health. 

The key is the color. 

Flavonoids found in purple or black carrots have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-microbial properties, while some red carrots may have more beta-carotene and lycopene, which is linked to reduced risk of heart disease and some types of cancer.

At the end of the day, however, the health differences really aren't a dealbreaker for any specific variety - just keep eating these crunchy, vitamin A rich beauties and your body will love you for it.

If you need inspiration for how to use them, check out my flavor pairing ideas, along with some of my favorite recipes below: 
​

Chervil
Cilantro
Caraway
Cumin
Honey
Greens: carrot, collards
Mustard seeds
Nuts: almonds, cashews, pistachios, pecans, walnuts
Fruits: apples, apricots, citrus (lemon/orange), dates, pineapple
Other root vegetables: daikon, radish, parsnip
Game meats
Lentils/bean/legumes
Spring carrots pair well with mild meats like chicken and rabbit

carrot green salsa verde
Serves 1 cup 

Ingredients: 
1 teaspoon fennel seeds
1 teaspoon yellow mustard seeds
1 teaspoon cumin 
1 teaspoon coriander
carrot greens from 5 carrots (tougher stems removed)
1 bunch cilantro, reserve 1 tablespoon for garnish
2 cloves garlic
1/2 preserved lemon, pith removed (only use peel)
⅓ cup olive oil 
1 teaspoon kosher salt

Directions:
Combine fennel, mustard seeds, cumin, and coriander in a small sauté pan and toast over medium heat for about 1 minute, until toasted and fragrant. Let cool, then finely grind. 

Combine toasted spices, carrot greens, cilantro, garlic, preserved lemon, olive oil, and salt in a food processor. Process until finely chopped but not pureed. 

Serve with assorted vegetables and flatbread OR use as a marinade OR thin with vinegar and oil to use as a salad dressing.

Looking for more carrot recipes? Check out these spring rolls from a previous post OR check out my next newsletter where I'll be featuring a few more carrot inspired recipes.  

The best part about summer, in my opinion, is the garden bed full of greens outside my kitchen window. I peer down from the second floor and take a glimpse every morning; I can't help but press my lips into a smile as I grind coffee beans for the French-press. After, I walk down the back stairway with scissors in hand to clip a variety of greens for breakfast and, later, lunch. 

Never, ever, will I get enough.

I enjoy the complexity of a bowl of mixed greens: arugula, nasturtium, mizuna, broccoli greens, bibb, and curly endive, just to name a few. Each offers something different for the palate. 

There are days when I'll eat an entire head of lettuce, or 12 cups of assorted greens (if you don't believe me, ask my partner Adi), and I won't realize it until I'm finished feasting. Whether they're mixed with fresh corn, kohlrabi, radish, chickpeas, za'atar, or raspberries - I'll eat them every which way. My favorite lately has been lightly sautéed greens on a mezze platter with cooked chickpeas and shakshuka-spiced carrots, assorted cucumbers, labneh, sautéed radish (with its greens), Jordanian olives (unpitted), Bulgarian feta, and lavash. 

I know I don't have to tell you greens are good for you, but I will anyway: They're full of phytochemicals, antioxidants, calcium, vitamin K, fiber, iron, and folate. Low in calories and high in protein per calorie.

Not so sure you can eat them on a regular basis? I bet I could get you to eat my greens - just ask the participants from this month's cooking class I taught at Blue Cross Blue Shield (see list of up coming FREE classes).  On the menu: charred napa cabbage with a miso lime dressing (see below). 

Regardless if greens are new to you OR you're trying to get more in your diet, try some of these simple strategies: 

• Start small and build your tolerance. Some greens are more bitter than others, so don't feel bad if you don't love them all right away
• Steam or blanche to lower the intensity of more-bitter greens
• Pair them with acidic ingredients, like vinegar, to reduce bitterness and allow them to soften
• Add salt (in moderation, of course) to break down cell walls, making them easier to chew and digest

Charred Napa cabbage with miso lime dressing
serves: 4

Ingredients: 
1 head Napa cabbage, cut lengthwise
2 tbsp grapeseed oil 
2 tbsp miso 
1 tbsp butter, softened
1 lime, freshly juiced

Directions: 
1. Heat a large cast iron pan with oil. When hot, add the cabbage, cut side down and cook until it develops char, about 4-5 minutes. Rotate every few minutes until all sides are charred. 
2. Meanwhile, mix the miso and butter until well-combined in a small bowl. 
3. Apply miso butter to cabbage and bast periodically to the cabbage as it is cooking. The total cook time will vary, depending on the heat and size of cabbage, about 10-15 minutes. 
4. When all sides are charred, remove from heat and squeeze fresh lime juice.
​5. Serve. 

Like what you see? Check out a few other posts, like baharat spiced potato kebbeh, or the nectarine, corn, and black bean salad.

Over the past couple weeks, I have been overwhelmed with the abundance of raspberries from the garden outside my bedroom window. I start my day by wandering to the raspberry bush to harvest a few berries. Carefully, I reach for the ripest of berries. It takes but one delicate pluck of my fingers before it drops into the palm of my hand. One for me, two for yogurt parfaits. One for me, two for Adi's sunflower butter toast...

I simply cannot get enough. 

Naturally, I grab one more raspberry and pop it into my mouth before heading back to kitchen to prepare breakfast. 

​​Serves 1
Ingredients: 
6 oz. Greek yogurt, plain 
1/2 cup freshly picked raspberries, rinsed
1/8 cup mixed toasted grains and/or seeds (quinoa, oats, and sesame in equal parts) 
2 sprigs fresh mint, torn

In a bowl, layer in order: Greek yogurt, raspberries, mixed grains/nuts, and finally fresh mint. 

​Serves 1
Ingredients:
1 slice seeded whole grain bread, toasted
1 tbsp sunflower butter 
2/3 cup raspberries, rinsed and drained
sea salt 

Apply sunflower butter to toast and top with raspberries. Sprinkle a small amount of sea salt and serve. 

Why let the fun stop there, I thought. In the spirit of keeping things simple, I decided to puree the remaining 3 quarts of berries to make fruit leather. And what perfect timing: Next week I will be venturing west via Amtrak to Glacier National Park with my favorite human in the entire planet, Adi. We'll be backpacking into the park, hiking 10 miles each day, so we'll need plenty of nourishment to keep us going - check back for updates and more backpacking recipes!

Sure, you can buy fruit leather in the store. Once you discover how easy it is to make, however, you'll think twice before reaching for those Fruit Roll-ups or extra-fancy organic brands. 

The recipe I'm about to share has only 2 ingredients. No corn syrup, dextrose, partially hydrogenated cottonseed oil, citric acid, sodium citrate, acetylated monoglycerides, fruit pectin, malic acid, ascorbic acid, natural flavors, or  artificial colors.

Now, the recipe:

​kid tested, mother approved

Makes 4-5 trays
Ingredients: 
3 quarts raspberries
2 tbsp agave

Puree ingredients in a blender until smooth. Pour onto parchment lined dehydrator trays, about 1/4-1/8" thick. If using a fruit leather tray, you may want to lightly apply a neutral oil to keep from sticking. Use a spatula to smooth out evenly. Turn on dehydrator to 135F and heat for 4-6 hours, depending on thickness of your fruit puree. 

When done, peel off tray and roll between parchment to prevent the fruit leather from sticking to one another. 

Still hungry? Check out more raspberry inspirations like my raspberry rhubarb galette.

Rhubarb has finally made its way back into my kitchen, and I am super pumped to share with you how I use rhubarb. Yes, it's often used in sweet preparations, but I'm here to share other fun ways to enjoy it in savory dishes. 

Before I delve into the recipes, let's begin with rhubarb basics: Rhubarb is a member of the knotweed family, which includes sorrel and buckwheat. Years before you or I were on this planet, rhubarb was found in China, Russia, Mongolia, and other parts of Central Asia. Traded originally as a luxury good, many sought out for its use as a detoxifying agent and curative herb. 

Choose firm, red stalks over green ones. The green lends itself to sour notes. 

When preparing rhubarb, first remove the large green leaves. They are extremely high in oxalic acid, which is poisonous and toxic to humans and some bugs when eaten in large amounts. The leaves can be used in insecticides, so if you have critters to fend off in the garden, explore its use as a DIY insecticide. 

Store in a bag wrapped in a towel  inside the refrigerator for up to 1 week to prevent them drying out. Not going to use them within the week? Freeze it! Instead of storing in the refrigerator, simply cut the cleaned rhubarb into small, even pieces. Put in a freezer bag and close. Make sure all air is emptied and freeze for up to one year.

In the kitchen, rhubarb requires balance dues its strong tartness, which is typically with sugar. Apart from the obvious uses like pie, bars, jams, and other desserts, try them pickled, in a porridge or stir-fry, as a compote, braised, or as a savory sauce over meat or fish!

Tartness can vary from stalk to stalk. If possible, start with less sugar and gradually add more along the way. 

Rhubarb Relish
Serve alongside split pea croquettes (or any vegetable croquette for that matter) or grilled meat/fish. 
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 1 ½ hours (includes chilling time)
Yield: approximately 8 cups

Ingredients:
8 cups chopped rhubarb
8 cups onions, thinly sliced
7 cups granulated sugar
3 cups cider vinegar
2 tsp salt
2 tsp ground cloves
2 tsp ground cinnamon

Directions:
     1. Chop rhubarb into rough dice; set aside.
    2. Add onions to separate bowl. Cover with boiling water; let sit for 5 minutes. Drain and discard water.
   3. In heavy-bottomed pot, dissolve sugar in cider vinegar on medium heat. Add onions, rhubarb, salt, cloves and cinnamon. Stir well. Cook, stirring often, until it reaches a thick jam-like consistency, 40 minutes to 1 hour.
     4. Remove from heat; let cool. Place in jar and refrigerate.

Pickled Rhubarb
Makes about 1 cup. This goes great in a simple shaved asparagus salad, in a taco, or on a pickle plate with other accoutrements. 

Ingredients:
2 rhubarb stalks, sliced on a diagonal
1 cup red wine vinegar
1/2 cup sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt, plus more
2 teaspoons pink peppercorns
1 teaspoon fennel seeds
Directions:

1. Pack rhubarb into jar. Bring vinegar, sugar, 1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt, pink peppercorns, fennel seeds, and 3/4 cup water to a boil in a small saucepan, stirring to dissolve sugar and salt. Pour into jar or heat proof vessel. Cover and chill until cold, at least 1 hour.

Check out a couple tasty sweet treats using rhubarb like outlaw bread pudding and raspberry rhubarb galette. 

Why spend money on a spice blend when you can just make it yourself at a fraction of the cost? You'll never buy blends again - especially the ones that are a challenge to find in the first place.

When I first read about ras el hanout, I had no idea what it was. It started appearing in recipes and conversation, so I turned to Google to learn more. Soon enough, I discovered ras el hanout as a Moroccan sweet, spicy, and savory spice blend. It had me intrigued, and soon I realized how challenging it was to find in my local grocer. Shortly thereafter, I was back on the computer searching for a recipe. 

My search showed an endless list of variations. I chose one at random, and ever since I've been concocting my own personal blend. It's now just how I like it, and I use it in many savory dishes with fish, chicken, bean, lentils, grains, and far too many vegetables to count. 

Happily, ras el hanout sits, displayed on my spice rack with a permanent presence. 

Ingredients: 
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground ginger
2 teaspoons ground fenugreek
1 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon turmeric
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground coriander seeds
1 teaspoon cayenne
1 sweet paprika 
1 teaspoon ground allspice
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

Combine all ingredients and mix thoroughly. Store in an airtight container out of sunlight in a cool, dark place. 

If you like this spice blend, you'll love baharat as well. It's a widely used Middle Eastern spice blend, similar to ras el hanout. Get it here. 

Dukkah, an Egyptian nut & spice blend, is the perfect topping for salads or grilled fish. I use it weekly to jazz up a simple salad. My current favorite is tossing grilled asparagus spears with fava beans, fresh mint, a generous pinch of dukkah, and olive oil. Serve over rice topped with yogurt, and you have yourself a satisfying pilaf. 

But don't take my word for it, taste for yourself:

Crêpe (pronounced with a hard e, as in "ep" like depths​ of flavor, not "ape" like in paper), is a French staple, resembling a thin pancake, and eaten throughout the day. When people think of crêpes, they often think of the all-purpose sort, made with eggs and dairy, feather-light and thin. However, crêpes did not start out with those ingredients. In fact, it started out using buckwheat flour, water, and salt.

That's it! They were originally gluten and egg - free ;) 

The original crêpe was made in Breton, in the Brittany region of France. When used in a savory dish, buckwheat crêpes take on a new name called a galette. 

I chose to embrace Breton's tradition and have a go at making three different versions, using buckwheat flour as my base. It's necessary to first try recipes as they were intended, so my first version included the three traditional ingredients: buckwheat, water, and salt. But I also wanted to play with the flavors to enhance and aerate the batter. The second version included 60 g egg and the third version, 60 g kombucha. 

(See recipes below and try them for yourself. Try one or all leave a comment saying which you preferred)

The next question is: What do I put inside/on these beautiful buckwheat delicacies? 

Answer: I had a home delivery of Jen's Jars (check out the pics below), after getting to know Jen herself, so I knew exactly what I was going to use. She uses (mostly) Minnesota-grown, 100% plant-based ingredients in her products (and no preservatives!). I dove into the Easter basket for the raw cacao dark chocolate spread, first. I then tried a few using the spinach and pine nut pesto. 

I kept it simple the first time, using only fresh pear to accompany the raw cacao spread. I added a combination of fresh and dried cherries to the next batch. For a more savory approach, I made a round of galettes with some with the pesto, adding a tomato-and-beet salad, and another topped with gruyère cheese.

The possibilities are endless: It's been nearly a week, and I still have one pint of batter left. Each time it's different, and it's difficult to say which flavors I like best.... But why choose one when I can have them all?

Makes ~4 cups batter

Version #1 
Ingredients
​250 g buckwheat flour
750 ml water
8 g salt

Version #2
​Ingredients
​250 g buckwheat flour
690 ml water
60 g egg (1 whole egg)
8 g salt

Version #3
​Ingredients
​250 g buckwheat flour
690 ml water
60 g kombucha 
8 g salt

Butter for the coating the pan 

Directions: 
1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl and beat together until well combined. 
2. Refrigerate for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight. 
3. Remove from refrigerator for at least 1 hour before making the galettes/crêpes. 
4. Use a crêpe pan or non-stick pan and heat until it's hot. Wipe out the pan and add a bit of butter. Pour 2-3 ounces into the pan and use a wooden spreader to swirl the batter. Option to add more butter on top, cooking for roughly one minute. Top with filling of your choice and cook for another minute. Option to apply filling later as I did with some salads. Total cook time is about 3 minutes. 

​Garlic is incredibly versatile, and a great complement to just about any food. There are hundreds of varieties available, but the type of garlic you use, its age, and how you store it can have a big impact on the final dish. 

The good news? It's actually quite difficult to mess up your dish by adding garlic - simply because it will still be delicious. 

Roasted garlic is an easy win on flavor, but did you know that the health benefits of garlic are far greater when you slice into it? 

​When garlic is crushed, grated, chopped, or minced, the enzyme allinase converts alliin into allicin. Through a series of chemical reactions,  it releases its' defense mechanism, which is responsible for unleashing those cholesterol and blood pressuring lowering capabilities, along with reducing risk for developing some cancers. 

Keep in mind that you'll want to wait about 10-15 minutes before using to maximize on those health properties. You'll also want to bear in mind that too much heat can kill the allicin, which is what you want to retain. If you eat the garlic raw OR wait at least 10-15 minutes before heating -cooking- the garlic, you're good to go. 

Interestingly, the health benefits may also hold true with other sulfur containing foods like cruciferous vegetables. You know these guys. Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and broccoli are just a few of my favorites from this category of vegetables. The link is allicin, which is a general name for a class of sulfoxides. 

Now, for some garlic inspiration: Homemade mock duck

Mock duck, also known as seitan, is wheat gluten made from gluten, which is the primary protein that makes up wheat. When wheat flour dough is washed in water, all the starch is removed and the gluten remains. When prepared correctly, it looks incredibly similar to meat, which is why it has taken the stage for many meat substitutes. As an added bonus, it's incredibly high in protein and low in fat.

One ounce of vital wheat gluten roughly contains 104 kcal and 21 g protein. 

Who said vegans can't eat enough protein? If they're eating this, they are likely meeting their nutritional protein needs. 

But how do you make it? 

Makes 8 servings

Ingredients

Dough: 
2 cups vital wheat
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tsp ginger, grated
1 1/4 cup vegetable stock 
3 tbsp tamari
2 tsp sesame oil 

Broth: 
4 cups vegetable stock
1/4 cup tamari 
kombu or other seaweed (optional)
1" knob ginger

Directions

In a bowl, combine vital wheat, garlic, and ginger. 

In pot, heat vegetable stock with tamari and sesame oil. Just before it comes to a boil, pull from heat and add to bowl of dry ingredients. Knead for 3-5 minutes, rest 10 minutes, then knead another 3-5 minutes. Allow to rest once again and begin heating broth in a large stock pot. 

Simply add 4 cups vegetable stock with tamari, seaweed, and ginger. Bring to a boil and reduce to a simmer. Cut small bite-sized pieces of dough using kitchen shears or a knife. Carefully add the small dough balls into the broth and keep submerged as best as possible. Cook at a simmer for 50-60 minutes, remove from heat and allow to cool. 

Add to a stir fry, salad, stew, curry, you name it! You can also substitute meat dishes with the mock duck and modify the above recipe with different seasonings. You can also add other aromatics to the broth like lemongrass, curry leaves, or cinnamon sticks. 

Try modifying these recipes by replacing the meat/seafood: revivify me salad, Vietnamese shrimp and noodle salad, or lamb kofte. 

In honor of National Nutrition Month (March), and National Grain Sampling Day (March 27th), I thought I would highlight a basic grouping of food that's recently received a lot of attention, both good and bad: Grains.

We know grains to be good for our bodies. Yet, at the same time, we are told directly and indirectly through diet trends and fads to avoid them - especially those containing gluten. "Keto this, low carb that..."

Well, I'm here to set the record straight.

Before I begin delving into the health benefits and explain why you may want to include them into your diet, however, it's important to first understand the definition and anatomy of a whole grain. 

Whole grains are defined by the American Association of Cereal Chemists International and the FDA as consisting of, "intact, ground, cracked or flaked fruit of the grain whose principal components, the starchy endosperm, germ, and bran, are present in the same relative proportions as they exist in the intact grain." This includes sorghum, wheat, barley, millet, buckwheat, oats, corn, brown rice, etc.

​(get a comprehensive list here).

The bran, which is the multi-outer layer of a whole grain, consists of insoluble fiber, antioxidants, and B vitamins. Similarly, the germ or embryo contains fiber and B vitamins, but it also has some protein, minerals, and healthy fats. The endosperm is the germs supply of energy and is the largest portion of the whole grain. It contains starchy carbohydrates, proteins, and smaller amounts of vitamins and minerals. Refined grains only contain the endosperm, which means they are inferior to whole grains and contain fewer nutrients. During processing, the bran and germ are removed. Some processed products become enriched with the nutrients that were lost in the processing; however, they still remain low in fiber (1).

​​Existing evidence indicates that whole grains has proven health benefits, largely from observational studies showing an association with whole grain consumption and disease risk reduction. More specifically, studies have shown that whole grains can lower the risk of chronic diseases like CHD, diabetes, and cancer while aiding in weight management and digestive health (2). Most of these studies findings suggest a minimum of 3 servings a day is necessary to achieve optimum benefits. 

It's important to note, that, even while whole grains are healthy for some, most even, they may not be good for everyone i.e. for those with food allergies and/or intolerances, some whole grains may not be suitable. When determining if grains should be included in your diet, speak with a registered dietitian (myself included).

If you are excluding foods - and this goes for all food avoidances - it's wise to know what you may be missing out on nutritionally, which is why I highly suggest you work with an expert. 

I love eating grains in a variety of clever ways. Sometimes, I'll just take classic recipes and swap out the type of grain used within the recipe. For instance, porridge is often made with oats. But who says you can't make porridge with quinoa or rye flakes instead? Take it one step further and try making your porridge a savory one at that. Add an egg or parmesan cheese for extra protein and/or add roasted peppers to sneak in move veggies. We all know the challenges of getting those vegetables, so why not add them to your porridge? Make it fun.

Here are some of my favorites: 
Asian grain bowl -or- any DIY grain bowl 
Baharat spiced potato kibbeh 
porridge
napa wraps

What's your favorite way to eat grains? Or are they something you've been avoiding? Leave a comment and share your favorite recipe, or what you've been using as a substitute. 
​

What's a serving size you may ask? 
      1 serving of whole grains is equivalent to roughly 1/2 cup cooked grains or 1 slice of bread

How are sprouted grains different from whole grains? 
       Sprouted grains are grains that straddle the line between a new plant and a seed. When whole grains are sprouted, the amount and bio-availability of some nutrients increases, notably vitamin C, B vitamins, amino acids, and fiber. Interestingly, sprouted grains may also be less allergenic to those with sensitivities. 

Which grains are gluten free? 
       Most! These include, amaranth, buckwheat, corn, millet, sorghum, oats*, rice, quinoa, and teff. Wheat containing grains include varieties like spelt, kamut, farro, durum, bulgur, semolina, barley, rye, triticale, and oats*.

How do you substitute for whole grains in baking? 
      When making substitutions, you'll need to consider what role the flour plays in the recipe. For instance, modifying a recipe that originally calls for all-purpose may affect the structure when you start adding a whole grain or whole wheat flour. If you're unsure, experiment. I like to start playing with a ratio of 2 parts all purpose to 1 part whole wheat (i.e. for a recipe that calls for one cup all-purpose flour, I will add 1/3 cup whole wheat + 2/3 cup all-purpose). Each recipe may be different from another, and soon enough you'll begin to develop an affinity for whole-wheat. 

Hungry for more? Read my latest on the history of cake or modify my carrot, parsnip cake using whole wheat flour instead of all purpose flour. 

I'm a dietitian - and I love cake! It sparks joy in my life. And, if it also sparks joy in yours, then there's no reason you shouldn't have some as well.

Food is food. Cake included. But, as the result of the recent war on sugar, there has been an overabundance of cake shaming. I am far too often approached by clients to talk about the "bad" foods (like cake) in our lives, using negative language to describe foods that are less healthy.

Sure. Cake is not the healthiest of food choices. But cake is not in and of itself the problem. It's about portion distortion. It's about a lack of moderation. And it's about people's relationship with food. These are the things that truly need to be addressed. 

When enjoyed in moderation, cake can fit easily into most healthy lifestyles. Contact me here to discuss further how you can have your cake and eat it too while trying to adopt a healthier relationship with food in general.

And, importantly, cake is not just dessert: It's a celebration of life, commitments, joy, and special occasions. This is why I've decided to highlight the awesomeness of cake. It is, after all, my birthday month, and I do love a nice slice of cake.

​...Not an entire cake, just a slice ?

It's difficult to determine exactly when bread became cake for the first time - especially as, for many years, there wasn't a distinction made between the two. But we do know cake has been in existence for centuries, used in ancient beliefs and rituals, and made as offerings to the gods and spirits. 

In the beginning, cakes were made less sweet and leavened with yeast or eggs. Much like bread. In fact, some of the earlier 'cakes' were flat and dense (not nearly as dessert-delicious as the soft and fluffy cakes we have today). Adding yeast and eggs allows for the lightening of dough by adding air - though both were/are time-consuming and require great skill to get just right.

Then: In walks bicarbonate of soda and baking powder. Using these two ingredients allowed for a consistently airy, structured cake that is much easier for all of us to make. This, in turn, allowed cakes to become more diverse, creative, and more-or-less foolproof even for novice bakers to put together.

These two ingredients also led to the advent of commercial baking.

In the early 1930's, P. Duff and Sons took home baking to a new level when they out with a cake mix requiring only one added ingredient: eggs! It wasn't a hit until World War II, however, when housewives around the United States were going back to work, spending less time in the kitchen. Betty Crocker was taking over America's home kitchens. It was a simple, and delicious solution to a great change in the country. But food, and cake, was also quickly evolving into something, perhaps, a bit more concerning: As we've grown into convenience as a society, we've risked lowering the value in the traditions we once placed on foods. Including cakes.

But, as is often the case, there are still two sides to this coin (cake): While we might have lowered the quality of foods with increased packaging and commercial ease, we've also increased their accessibility, allowing people to connect to their traditions and making celebrations of life a more simple affair.

​As it should be.

It's only when we go beyond these simple joys, indulging even when we have nothing to celebrate, and then indulging again and again to the point where our celebrations blend together with the our daily meals and we forget the importance of balance, that this becomes a problem.

Again: Cake is not the issue. No more blaming cake. It's only our short memories that are to blame.

Again: If you want to have a slice, you should. Go ahead! Just remember to be respectful of your body and cognizant of when enough is enough. 

Now, on to the good stuff. Looking to spark joy with a few cakes this weekend? Try these amazing cakes, Marie Kondo style: My half-birthday cake (carrot, parsnip cake), a sweet and spicy honey cake, and tart, sweet raspberry rhubarb galette. 

Whether it's a birthday, an anniversary, a longstanding tradition, or just the tired end to a long and successful week you're celebrating, I promise one, or all, of these will surely do the trick.

And, when you're finished baking, read this article next for a few more sweet treats and joyful eats: ​DIY Food Gifts.

Baharat means "spice" in Arabic, and is widely used in Middle Eastern cuisine. It's a wonderful blend of spices (see recipe below to try it for yourself) that can often be difficult to find in grocery stores throughout the Americas. The blend varies from region to region, but typically contains black peppercorns, allspice, cloves, coriander, paprika, nutmeg, and cumin. A little goes a long way - if you are one to experiment, less is more in this case.

You'll find this spice blend in a variety of traditional eats like kebbeh (see below for recipe as well), sambusak, chicken skewers, or really any type of meat or rice pilaf. It's also used in marinades,  pastes, soups, and sauces to add an extra smoky, sweet depth to flavor. 

Baharat 

-modified from the featured cookbook club of the month, Together: Our Community Cookbook 

Makes roughly 1/4 cup

Ingredients:
1 tbsp cinnamon, ground
1 1/2 tsp cumin, ground
1 tsp coriander, ground
1 1/2 tsp allspice, ground
1 1/2 tsp freshly ground black peppercorns
1 1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp grated nutmeg
1/4 tsp cloves, ground
1/4 tsp cardamom, ground

Combine all spices and mix until well combined. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
​

Lebanese in origin, kebbeh is more commonly a meat dish with ground lamb or beef mixed with  bulgur and spices. It can be shaped, stuffed, fried, poached, baked, or eaten raw. Typically, it's accompanied by many other foods as part of a maza, an array of Middle Eastern appetizers. 

Inspired by these flavors and looking to warm up a particularly cold Minnesota evening, I originally made the kebbeh as a side for dinner. Delicious. The following morning, I decided to try something a little different: Top it with an egg and serve with a side salad for breakfast. And, due to only having one egg in the house for two people (my boyfriend Adrian was hungry as well - aren't they always?  ?), I substituted Greek yogurt for another version.

Both were exceptional choices, but if you're pro egg, then go with the sunny side egg. The rich yolky center seeps into the kebbeh and melds beautifully. 

And now, the recipe:

​Serves 8 slices 

Ingredients: 

1 lb potatoes, peeled and quartered
1 cup bulgur wheat
1 shallot, minced
1/4 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp baharat (see above recipe)
2 tbsp flour
3 tbsp olive oil (plus more for the pan)

Directions: 

Preheat oven to 425F

1. Put the potatoes in a large pot with cold water, bring to a boil, and cook for 20 minutes with plenty of salt. 
2. Soak the bulgur in cold water for 10 minutes, drain well (squeeze out moisture), and set aside. 
3. Oil a 9" pie pan and set aside. 
4. When potatoes are finished cooking, pass through a ricer in a mixing bowl. Combine bulgur, shallot, paprika, baharat, and flour.
5. Press mixture into prepared pan. Score into 8 servings and make a 1/2 inch hole in the center. Fill with olive oil and drizzle remaining on top. 
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and crisp. 

Serve with an egg (or Greek yogurt) and a side salad. I kept the salad simple: shaved radicchio, orange segments, blackberries, and purple radish slices in a red wine vinaigrette. 

Hungry for more? Check out my latest post on citrus to add a little extra flair to winter. 

Food waste is a huge problem. This has been true for years. In fact, we waste 150,000 tons of food per day here in America. But, the good news is, there is plenty we can do, as we cook and create, to help mitigate the effects of food waste, and cut back on the things we throw away.

For example, there are benefits hidden amongst the food scraps you might normally toss in the trash. Today, we're going to focus on one specific ingredient that is especially potent in winter: Citrus. We'll learn not only how to keep those special extra bits from ending up in landfills, but also how they can be turned into delicious treats sure to impress your friends and family.

No need to toss the peels after cooking with citrus, because you can save the peels to make your own skin care line. ​​Vitamin C helps protect your skin while also giving it that glow, renewing damaged skin. Additionally, the citric acid from citrus kills bacteria and pathogens present on the skin, which leaves you feeling fresh and clean. 
​

1. Dry your peel by removing the pith (white part of citrus) from the rind (the colored part) using a knife. Dehydrate for several hours using a dehydrator or oven (150F) for about 8 hours.
2. Grind when completely dry.
3. Combine 1 tbsp with 2 tbsp plain yogurt and 1 tsp honey until thoroughly mixed. 

To use:
1. Massage into wet, damp skin.
2. Rinse. 
3. Pat dry. 
4. Store citrus scrub in refrigerator.

Makes 12 ounces
​This will deep clean your skin and tighten your pores after cleansing, and is especially good for those with oily skin.

Ingredients: 
3 tbsp fresh mint leaves
Peel of 1 medium orange
2 cups boiling water
1 tsp witch hazel

Directions: 
1. Place mint leaves and peels in a ceramic bowl and pour boiling water over. Allow to steep and cool completely.
2. Strain out mint leaves and peels and stir in the witch hazel. Pour into a clean container with a tight-fitting lid.

To use:
​Apply toner to your skin after cleansing with a clean cotton pad OR put in a spray bottle to spritz after bathing.

Great for those with sensitive skin, frequent rashes, and sunburned skin. The yogurt helps reduce inflammation and irritation, while the lemon lightens the sin tone and acts as an astringent.

Ingredients:
1 tsp yogurt
1 tsp lemon peel (dried and ground)
2 drops rose water
1 drop sandalwood oil

Directions:
1. Add all ingredients in a bowl.
2. Apply to skin evenly. Allow to absorb in skin for 10 minutes. 
​3. Rinse with cold water. 

Still hungry? Check out other amazing recipes here, like my DIY mint, honey elixir or homemade vanilla extract.

​There's more to citrus than just Vitamin C. We don't hear as much about the other health benefits and reasons to celebrate citrus, so, today, I'm going to do my best to redefine everything you thought you knew about citrus, and hopefully increase your appetite for more.

Rich in fiber, folate, calcium, thiamin, niacin, B6, phosphorous, magnesium, copper, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, and potassium, these nutritional compounds found in citrus can reduce the risk for many chronic diseases. In general, a piece of citrus the size of a baseball is equivalent to one serving of fruit, ranging from 60 - 80 kcal unless its lemon juice. One tablespoon of juice is equivalent to 4 kcal. 

​These calories come mostly from simple carbohydrates (fructose, glucose, sucrose, and even citric acid to a smaller extent). However, the fiber content, which is complex carbohydrate, is largely from pectin. This is especially important, as fiber allows for increased satiety and delay of gastric emptying (both are good!). Ultimately, promoting a heart healthy diet that keeps you fuller for longer. 

Vitamin C
      Water-soluble, with an important role in the formation of collagen throughout the body, iron absorption, and antioxidant functions. Contrary to what many believe, vitamin C does not prevent colds; it reduces the length and severity of the symptoms. 

Folate
    Water-soluble that is essential for cell production and growth, specifically in the production of DNA and RNA. 

Potassium
          Mineral that works to maintain body's water and acid balance. It is also an electrolyte with a key role in muscle contraction and maintenance of blood pressure. 

Phytochemicals
         Monoterpenes, limonoids (triterpenes), flavanoids, carotenoids, and hydroxycinnamic acid are some of more commonly studied phytochemicals. What most of these do for our bodies is still being explored as we continue to perform research. However, we do know these naturally occurring compounds have anticarcinogenic mechanisms, and antioxidant capabilities. 

• CVD: Cardiovascular Disease 
• Cancer: protective effect 
• Neural tube defects
• Anemia: vitamin C increases absorption of iron found in plant foods
• Cataracts: high levels of vitamin C and carotenoids decreases risk

MORE in the work, under review for possible positive influence of citrus:

• Bone metabolism and osteoporosis
• Kidney stone disease
• Cognitive function 
• Asthma

Now that we know it's good for us, what are examples of citrus...other than our trusted orange

• Add to a salad: fresh sliced citrus with greens and cheese drizzled in olive oil 
• Make a fresh fruit smoothie, juice, or mixed melange of cut fruit
• Use any citrus juice (fresh is best) to make a vinaigrette 
• Roasted beets with wedges of fresh citrus in a yogurt dressing 
• Citrus-scented desserts like olive oil cakes or tart
• Roasted with chicken (lemon, olive is a great combo)
• Broiled (grapefruit is common, but try a different citrus fruit for variety and to try something new)
• Use in a ceviche 
• Use in a salsa
• Pairs nicely with fish, serve as a garnish or side salad to accompany
• Preserved lemons is a wonderful addition to many dishes. It's easy to prepare them at home and enjoy for many months to follow

Citrus provides an amazing burst of flavor and color to break through these gray winter days. Now that you have the knowledge and ideas to get you started, get out there and get cooking!

If you're looking for help to achieve your food and nutrition goals, please reach out to me for a free 15-minute consultation. We can discuss how I can help you with goals, meal planning, and more.

Explore my page to learn more.

Still hungry? Check out my recipes page to get inspired, or to try something new. One of my favorites this time of year is the Brazilian fish stew.

Looking for last minute gifts that are extra special and unique? Try making one of the following food gifts that won't break the bank, and yet show you care.

​DIY gifts are always a hit!

Make each recipe your own. Choose from a variety of vanilla beans and/or alcohol for the extract recipe & different herbs and syrups for the elixir recipe. 

​It's as easy as pie...
except not, because it's actually easier!

 Follow these simple steps to make your own extract and gift to loved ones. 

You can use any vanilla bean, but know that each variety will have a different flavor and quality with unique characteristics. Bourbon and Madagascar are common and full bodied while the Tahitian is fruity with floral and Mexican is spicy. Blend different varieties for complexity. And while we're at it, a note about the alcohol. Keep it neutral using vodka OR bourbon, brandy, and rum for a sweeter, caramel flavor. Don't use top-shelf either; inexpensive alcohol works well.

Ingredients:
4-6 vanilla beans*
8 ounces alcohol*

Directions: 
Split vanilla beans half lengthwise. You may need to cut into smaller pieces to fit your jar, so cut according to the size of your jar or bottle. 

Place vanilla beans in a clean jar or bottle, submerge with alcohol. Cover, shake, and infuse for at least one month. Store in a cool, dry place and shake from time to time. 
(option to strain). 

Tie a bow around the neck of the bottle and gift away? If you decide to give as a gift, be sure to write the 'use' date.
​

Makes 1 cup 

1/2 cup mint syrup*
1/2 cup honey
2 inch piece fresh ginger, peeled

Directions: 
Put all ingredients into a saucepan over low heat until all ingredients are well-combined. Pour into clean jars or bottles, and store. 
*Mint can be substituted for other syrups as well. Explore your pantry or ethnic stores for other syrup ideas. Mint syrup can be purchased at Middle Eastern grocery store. 

When gifting, consider pairing the elixir with gin or another spirit, club soda, citrus, and/or ice molds.
​

Still hungry? Try gifting a baked good likesourdough muffins or honey cake. 

Lately, I've been exploring various Japanese foods. Looking for breakfast, one recipe in particular one stood out: Dorayaki. It's appeared in cooking shows, and recently featured in Tasting Table, so I began to grow curious: What was all the hype about? It is just a pancake, after all. Right?

Wrong. 

Dorayaki is not just any pancake. It's one of the most popular Japanese confections, filled with anko, a sweet adzuki red bean paste, sandwiched between two pancakes. 

You heard me. Two pancakes! But they're small.

Typically, the pancakes are quite sweet, so I cut out a lot of the sugar; I don't do well with things that are overly-sweet, especially at breakfast. But if you're looking for the full-on, sweeter pancake made as intended, add the full amount (using 1/2 cup sugar instead) from the recipe below. 

To make things interesting, I chose to make three different fillings. It was too difficult to choose just one: I was initially interested in trying the traditional bean paste version, but couldn't say no to a matcha green tea variation as well. It was around this time that I also noticed the abundance of ripe squash sitting on my kitchen counter, and decided to make a butternut squash filling for a third option.

Before you get off your seat to make some tasty sweet cakes, check out this clip from the popular manga-turned-anime-series Doraemon to get the full sense of what it's like to love dorayaki, below.

Pancake ingredients:
1 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp baking soda
2 eggs
1/4 cup sugar
1 tbsp honey
3/4 cup milk*
1-2 tablespoons butter
8 oz filling 
*Can use animal or plant-based milk

Directions: 
1. Mix dry all-purpose flour and baking soda in one bowl with a whisk. In a second bowl, whisk together eggs, honey, and milk. 
2. Gradually whisk the wet ingredients into the dry. 
3. In a nonstick pan, apply a small amount of butter. Ladle in a some of the batter into a circle and repeat. Flip after 2 minutes, or until golden brown, and cook the remaining side for 1-2 minutes. The idea is to make them snack worthy and be consistent in shape and size.
4. Work in batches until the batter is finished. 
5. In the middle of one pancake place a dollop of filling in the center. Place another pancake on top and press along the edges to create a seal, enclosing the filling. It's OK if some of the filling seeps out, messy can be good sometimes. 

Adzuki bean paste filling:
1 cup adzuki beans
1/8 cup sugar

Directions: 
1. Soak beans overnight or for 8 hours.
2. Drain, rinse, and cover with water. Cook for about 45 minutes or until softened. 
3. Puree beans in a food processor. 
4. Heat a frying pan and add bean puree with sugar. Cook until all it's dry and there's very little to no moisture. 

Matcha cream cheese filling:
1/8 cup honey
2 tbsp matcha green tea
8 oz softened cream cheese

Directions: 
1. In a food processor, combine all ingredients until well-mixed. 

Miso pumpkin filling:
2 cups squash, skinned, seeds and guts removed, roughly chopped
1 tbsp yellow miso 

Directions: 
1. In a pot, combine squash with enough water to cover. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until soft. 
2. Puree squash and add miso. 

Still hungry? Check out the miso carrot spread (within the napa cabbage wrap recipe) for another alternative filling.

Three days after Thanksgiving.
 
There wasn’t a morning farmers market like most Saturdays, so we gradually, naturally awoke to the peppermint-infused air from the humidifier. I moved slowly, much like a sloth, without worry from bed. In the kitchen, I turned on the kettle for French pressed coffee on the stovetop. As I waited for the water to boil, I ground Sumatra beans to a coarse grind and prepared the press. Within minutes I had a fresh cup of coffee steaming in hand. I moved to the living room to relax on the dark velvet couch, wrapped in a blanket, yellow light from the lamp in the corner, cozy and warm.
 
As I softened into my space, sipping coffee and stretching out my arms and legs, I heard noise from the back door of the kitchen. It sounded like Adi was searching for root vegetables: I caught the faintest sound of rustling plastic bags that contained them in our back door “pantry.” Breakfast, I suspected. What will it be? Potatoes? Parsnips? Beets, I hoped…
 
Soon enough, I was called to the dining table, beckoned by the smell of garlic and butter. There sat mini Greek yogurt parfaits garnished with walnut and Haarlson apple slivers, and a dish of cow’s-milk cheese and a dollop of Dijon on the side. I eagerly took my seat, placed the pink floral print napkin across my lap, and waited for the main course.
 
“Bon Appetit,” Adi said as he placed my breakfast in front of me. It was a plate of pink and red-shaded vegetables with a poached egg draped over the hash. The eggs were a nice touch, with silky soft yolks seeping through the beets, turnips, carrots, and apple. But wait – an unexpected sweetness? Adi looked at me, puzzled, and said, “It almost tastes like chocolate. What do you think?”
 
I took a bite, then another, and another. I said, “I don’t get a strong cocoa flavor, but there is something familiar and sweet.” I took another bite and suddenly discovered what the mystery sweetness was: “You’re right,” I said, “It is chocolate. You’re tasting M&M’s!” That’s when I realized he must have used the raisin/M&M mix from Halloween still sitting on our octagon-shaped shelves by the sink.
 
Adi admitted to using the mix - thinking there were all raisins, with no candy leftover. We had quite the laugh and continued to enjoy our (chocolate) breakfast hash with a different sort of appreciation..
 
In honor of our somewhat unconventional morning feast, I present to you: My version of a simple, delicious root vegetable hash:

Serves 2
Ingredients:
1 large turnip
1 large beet
2 carrots
1/2 apple
2 scallions, minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
6 raisins
4 brown m&m's (optional) ? 
2 tbsp. butter
Salt and pepper
2 eggs
 
Directions
Use a food processor to shred the turnip, beet, carrots, and apple. Or, use a cheese grater to shred the vegetables. Combine scallions, garlic, and raisins (m&m's too, if you dare) with shredded produce and season with pinch of salt and pepper.
 
Heat a frying pan and add butter. When hot, add shredded vegetables into the frying pan and fry 10-12 minutes. 
 
Meanwhile, fill a large pot with enough water to reach depth of 3 inches. Add coarse salt and a tablespoon of 1 tsp vinegar; bring to a simmer. Gently create a vortex with a fork in the water and crack eggs into the pot gently. Cook just until whites are set, about 3 minutes depending on desired runniness of the yolk. Remove with a slotted spoon onto a paper towel and proceed with the remaining eggs. You can do both eggs at once or do them one by one.  
 
On each plate, assemble hash with poached egg over top.
​

Still hungry? For more unique breakfast ideas, try Tuesday morning toast or trumpet crumpets.

Kimchi. Sauerkraut. Kefir. Tempeh. Yogurt.

What do these foods all have in common? They are fermented foods that may promote good gut health and weight loss, improve immunity and even allergies. In it's most basic sense, As Sandor Katz explains, "Fermentation is the transformation of food by various bacteria, fungi, and the enzymes they produce." Katz is the expert if you didn't know - He's the author of The Art of Fermentation, and should be on every food enthusiasts bookshelves. It's more informative than recipe-based, designed to introduce and educate one on the variety of fermented foods and beverages.

Coupling Katz with Rene Redzepi and David Zilber's new book, The Noma Guide to Fermentation, will set you up to make a plethora of delicious, nutritious, fermented foods. In Redzepi's book, there's even a how-to guide on building an incubation chamber. I'm still putting together the supplies so that I can make koji. How nerdy is that? Ha! Watch the video below to learn more about koji:

​Koji aside, many fermentations do not require you to create or purchase your very own chamber to ferment at home. In fact, you can make the most basic recipes with just about any vegetable -some fruits too- without any special equipment: All you need is a vessel, scale, salt, and the produce of your choice. Simple.

And there's no need to be afraid of getting started for fear of the wrong bacteria growing: Any microbiologist will tell you that "risky" is not a word used to describe the process of a simple vegetable fermentation. The lactic acid bacteria that is found on all plants develops quite quickly when fermenting, and can out-compete the incidental pathogenic bacteria.

Fear not: When you preserve in brine, things like botulism need not be of concern. 

Here's how it works: When a plant is harvested, it contains many microorganisms that continue to multiply and diversify. Aerobic bacteria get replaced by anaerobes, which includes many different types of lactic acid bacteria. After the plant becomes submerged, fermentation then begins. Carbon dioxide, alcohol, and acetic acid are also produced. 

Enough with the science, let's get to the kitchen and ferment something.
​

Fermenting foods and beverages is not something new. It's been around for centuries, playing an instrumental role in human evolution. 

Fermentation can be summed up with four words: "chop, salt, pack, wait." (Katz). 

1. ​Chop your vegetable
2. Salt* chopped vegetables and do one of two things, pound or squeeze until moist or soak in a brine solution for a few hours. 
3. Pack vegetables into a sterilized vessel and weigh them down below the brine/liquid. I used a plastic zip lock bag and filled with water. 
4. Wait, taste often, and refrigerate when you're satisfied. 

*salt* means the amount salt = 2% of the total weight of vegetable and liquid. 

As you can see from my pictures above, I chose the brine method. Next time, I'll try grating my vegetables. The objective is to expose as much surface area as possible to pull out the juice from within the vegetable. Clearly, if you take a look at the picture, I couldn't help but ferment the carrot in it's original shape, so I kept it whole. Yes, it will take longer to ferment, but the shape was too gnarly to mess with... The beets were sliced into small quarters, and the remaining carrots were cut into large matchsticks. 

My advice? Keep it simple the first go around. Taste what happens to the food every few days, and when you think it has reached its ideal taste, refrigerate. You can always make another batch and play with spice and aromatics to add to the flavor. 

The point is to get you in your kitchen cooking and experimenting. 

The verdict is still out on all the positive health benefits of fermented foods, but it's certainly a hot topic in the nutrition world, and it  continues to be studied. If you live in Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN, you too could participate in a gut study involving fermented vegetables. Simply contact Ky from GYST Fermentation Bar to learn more about how to join. 


Looking for more inspiration? Check out my Mac 'n' Chi post for more a different way to play with home fermentations. 

A coworker recently gave me a sourdough starter, so every week for the past month I've been experimenting with new foods. Every Tuesday, the day we work together, she comes into my office first thing and asks me, "What did you make this week? You should try..."

But these banana muffins have been by far my favorite.

The soft pretzels and cookies I tried turned out Okay: I would have liked to boil the pretzels before baking, but wasn't sure how the sourdough would react. Something to try for the next batch of pretzels, I suppose. And the cookies? Well, they had a softer texture and resembled something more like a scone. Still good, but tasted too, well, healthy. There are times when I want a hearty, grainy cookie, but other times, I want a classic, buttery, sweet cookie that melts in my mouth. This was not that cookie.

This ultimately led to the muffin recipe you'll find below. It is a healthier version of a muffin - one that doesn't weigh you down or add to the 'muffin top' (pun intended). Its soft center and banana goodness are just what your body needs to provide you with proper fuel. Plus, it's loaded with fiber to satiate your hunger, and isn't sweet or oily like many muffins. While it's a healthy version, however, I didn't run into the same problem as with the cookies: This was, in a word, delicious. 

Don't take my word for it. Bake them yourself and try one or all. You won't want to share these banana beauties. 

​Serves 12 medium sized muffins

Ingredients: 
1 1/4 cup sourdough starter
1 cup whole-wheat flour
1/2 cup quick cooking oats, 2 tablespoons reserved for garnish
1/2 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. baking powder
2 tsp. five spice powder
1/4 cup raw sugar*
1 cup mashed bananas (about 3 if frozen, then thawed)
1 egg
1/4 cup safflower oil 

*it doesn't have to be raw; use your favorite sugar here

Directions: 
1. At least 12 hours before you with to bake, mix the starter with the flour and allow to rest covered in a warm spot.
2. Preheat oven to 375F. Combine starter blend with oats (except 2 tablespoons), salt, baking soda, baking powder, and five spice.
Set aside. 
3. In another small bowl, combine the sugar, bananas, egg, and safflower oil. 
4. Gradually add the liquid ingredients into the dry (plus starter) stirring just until combined.  
5. Spoon batter into prepared muffin pans (I like to spray oil into the paper cups to allow for easy muffin removal) about 3/4 full. Top with remaining oats and a light sprinkle of salt. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. 
​

Find more inspiration for baked goodies here or try making the Tuesday morning toast. It's another easy and healthy breakfast idea.

Conditions are finally perfect. Not only because the tomatoes are abundantly in season, but also because the weather has turned cool and comfortable - ideal for canning/preserving. Long hours spent over a hot stove in the kitchen is a much more enticing, and bearable, proposition after the sweltering heat of summer has been tamed by the first days of September.

Another pro? This time of year is also when you'll find the the best deals, Your local farmers market should be the first place you visit to purchase tomatoes in bulk. Quarter and half bushels ($15 on average for a quarter) are going to be most affordable and freshest, with a higher nutrient content than what you'll find at the average grocery store.  

Each year, I make around a half bushel of tomato preserves in various forms: whole tomatoes, quartered tomatoes, peeled tomatoes. Hot pepper tomato jelly, and tomapple (tomato, apple) jam. And, of course, a few eaten fresh. It can take several hours to process tomatoes, but more than worth your time. Something new I tried this year: dehydrate the tomato skins and, then grind them into a powder. A dash of flaked lycopene (aka tomato skin) is a great addition to garnish soups, stews, grain bowls, even popcorn, or anything else that could use that little extra something. 

And, while time-consuming, peeling tomatoes is super easy. It can be somewhat dangerous, however, if you're impatient like myself. The heat from the tomatoes after blanching is boiling hot. Wear gloves, tough it out, or wait until they cool down (can put in an ice bath)

​1. Score the tomatoes by marking an 'x' using a knife on the butt of the tomato.
2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and blanche the tomatoes for 30-60 seconds.
3. Remove tomatoes from water, allow to rest and cool (optional).
4. Peel tomatoes from scored end towards the crown. 
5. Dehydrate skins or toss
​6. Process tomatoes 

Once you've got those tomatoes peeled, you're ready for canning. It's super easy, but, as I mentioned before, is time consuming. The more often you do it, the quicker and more efficient you will become. There are two methods you can follow: One uses a boiling water method, and the second utilizes pressure canning. 

• The boiling water bath method is safe for tomatoes, fruits, jams, jellies, pickles and other preserves.
• Pressure canning is the only safe method of preserving vegetables, meats, poultry and seafood.

Since my dear granny taught me the 'old-fashioned' boiling water bath method and provided me with the pots, I prefer to do it this way. Thus, the recipe I'm providing today, is meant for one using the boiling water method. 

​Prepares 2 each 3/4 lb glass jars. Double, triple, multiply accordingly 
​

• 2 lbs tomatoes 
• ½ tsp citric acid or 2 Tbsp bottled lemon juice to each hot quart jar (I prefer citric acid)
• Salt, 1 tsp salt to each quart jar or 1/2 tsp salt to each pint jar (if desired)
• 2 quart glass preserving jars with lids and bands 

1. PREPARE boiling water canner. Heat jars in simmering water until ready for use. Do not boil.  Wash lids in warm soapy water and set bands aside. -I like to keep my jars warm by placing them in a 200F oven until ready for use. 
2. WASH tomatoes. Dip in boiling water 30 to 60 seconds. Immediately dip in cold water. Slip off skins. Trim away any green areas and cut out core. Leave tomatoes whole or cut into halves or quarters.
3. CUT tomatoes into quarters to measure about 2 cups. Transfer to a large stainless steel saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Using a potato masher, crush tomatoes to release juices. While maintaining a gentle boil and stirring to prevent scorching, quarter additional tomatoes and add to the saucepan as you work. The remaining tomatoes do not need to be crushed, as they will soften with heating and stirring. Continue until all tomatoes are added, then boil gently for 5 minutes.
4. ADD ½ tsp citric acid or 2 Tbsp bottled lemon juice to each hot quart jar or ¼ tsp citric acid or 1 Tbsp bottled lemon juice to each hot pint jar.
5. PACK hot tomatoes into hot jars to within a generous 1/2 inch of top of jar. Press tomatoes into the jar until the spaces between them fill with juice, leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Add 1 teaspoon salt to each quart jar, 1/2 teaspoon to each pint jar, if desired. Remove air bubbles and adjust headspace, if necessary, by adding hot tomatoes. Wipe rim. Center hot lid on jar. Apply band and adjust until fit is fingertip tight.Place jar in boiling water canner. Repeat until all jars are filled.
6. PROCESS filled jars in a boiling water canner for 35 minutes for pints and 45 minutes for quarts, adjusting for altitude. Remove jars and cool. Check lids for seal after 24 hours. Lid should not flex up and down when center is pressed.

This recipe is a modification of an original Ball® Fresh Preserving recipe.
​

Give it a try, and let me know what you think! Share pictures and all your stories here. Or have your own favorite way to use tomatoes during this perfect time of year? I'd love to hear about it as well.

And, if you're looking for ideas, check out my pickled watermelon rinds for another unique preservation recipe.