An Herbal Bedfellow

Barbecued Beans and Rice

pianananna@gmail.com (Jane Marie) — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 11:00:00 +0000

3/4 c. regular long-grain rice
1 T. vegetable oil
1 medium green pepper, cut into 1/2 in. pieces
1 medium red pepper, cut into 1/2 in. pieces
1 medium onion, chopped
1 can ( 15-19 oz) black beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15-19 oz) red kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15-19 oz) garbanzo beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (15-19 oz) pink beans, rinsed and drained
1 can ( 14 1/2 oz) no-salt added, stewed tomatoes
1 c. water
1/2 c. bottled barbecue sauce
parsley (opt.)

In 2 qt. saucepan, prepare rice as label directs but do not add butter or margarine.

Meanwhile in a 12-in. skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat until hot.
Add peppers and onion and cook, stirring, until tender.
Add all beans, tomatoes, water and barbecue sauce; heat to boiling over high heat.
Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer 15 minutes.

Spoon rice into center of beans. Before serving stir to combine rice and bean mixture. Add chopped parsley to individual serving bowls, if desired.

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If you like this blog, please look for my other blogs:
Thyme for Herbs
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Tarragon and Grape Chicken

pianananna@gmail.com (Jane Marie) — Sat, 13 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0000

4 medium skinless, boneless chicken breast halves ( 1/4 pounds)
1/2 t. salt
1/4 t. coarsely ground black pepper
1 t. olive oil
2 t. margarine or butter
3 medium shallots, finely chopped (1/3 cup)
1/4 c. white wine
1/4 chicken broth
1/4 c. half-and-half or light cream
1 c. seedless red and/or green grapes, each cut in half
1 T. chopped fresh tarragon

Sprinkle chicken with 1/4 t. salt and the pepper

In nonstick 12-in. skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat until hot.
Add chicken and cook 6 minutes.
Reduce heat to medium, turn chicken over, and cook until chicken is golden brown and loses its pink color throughout, 6-8 minutes longer.
Transfer chicken to platter and keep warm.

In same skillet, melt margarine over medium-low heat.
Add shallots and remaining 1/4 t. salt; cook stirring, until tender and golden, 3-5 minutes.
Stir in wine; cook 30 seconds.
Stir in broth, half-and-half, grapes, and tarragon.
Return chicken to skillet; heat through.

YIELD: 4 servings

Calories ...........255
Total Fat...........8g
Sat. Fat............2g
Cholesterol.........87mg
Sodium.............455mg
Carbohydrate.......10g
Protein............34g

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Lent - Picante Bass Fillets

pianananna@gmail.com (Jane Marie) — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0000

Vegetable cooking spray
1 t. vegetable oil
1/3 c. chopped onion
3 large garlic cloves
1 c. water
1 t. chicken-flavored bouillon granules
1 (4 oz) can chopped green chiles, drained
2 t. chili powder
1/4 t. ground cumin
2/3 c. uncooked long-grain rice
6 ( 4 oz.) bass fillets
1/2 medium avocado
1 medium tomato, chopped
2 T. plus 2 t. chopped ripe olives
1/4 c. plus 2 t. (1 1/2 oz) shredded low fat Cheddar cheese

Coat a nonstick skillet with cooking spray; add oil.
Place over medium-high heat until hot.
Add onion and garlic; sauté until tender.
Add water and next 5 ingredients.
Bring to a boil; cover and simmer for 10 minutes.
Arrange fillets over rice; cover and cook 12 minutes or until fish flakes easily when tested with a fork and rice is tender.
Remove from heat.

Combine avocado, tomato, and olives; spoon evenly over fillets.
Sprinkle with cheese.
Cover and let stand for 2 minutes or until cheese melts.

YIELD: 6 servings (263 calories per serving)

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If you like this blog, please look for my other blogs:
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Jerky.Com Giveaway

pianananna@gmail.com (Jane Marie) — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 20:34:00 +0000

Good snacks are hard to find when you're watching fat and sugar content. Jerky.com is a place online that you can find snacks for even the most discriminating palate. I've mentioned this web site before and since I've had a chance to sample some of their products, I've become a real jerky fan! My husband was the one who liked jerky but I always thought I didn't. Isn't it usually dry and hard to chew? My experience with this company is not like that at all.

I especially like the wide variety of jerky they have to offer. They range from the standard Beef Jerky flavors to exotic jerky made from venison, elk, buffalo, ostrich, and alligator. Turkey Jerky is made from free-range turkey breasts, which are wonderfully seasoned and marinaded. Best of all is the fact that most items come with free shipping!

Jerky.com is about to launch two new products, and I have been privileged to try them. Spencer's Jerky comes in two exciting flavors -- Sweet & Spicy Mango, and Sweet & Spicy Orange.
Sweet and Spicy Mango is spicy, but not hot (to my taste), with a sweet fruity tang.
Sweet and Spicy Orange smells strongly of the orange citrus scent the moment you open the package, and it packs a wonderful, sweet, orange taste, as well as a spicy punch.
Both of these two new jerkies are tender and easy to chew, something I appreciated. The best part is that a one-ounce serving only has 2.5 grams of total fat ; 1 gram of saturated fat.
Now for the big announcement -- Jerky.com is offering a package of each to one lucky winner! Here's how you can enter to win:

1. Leave a comment after visiting the Jerky.com web site, about what your favorite product would be, or how you would use this peanut butter..

2. For a second chance to win, sign up as an e-mail subscriber with Feedburner, Feed Blitz, or become a Google Follower (see sidebar.) Then leave a second comment telling me you have subscribed or that you are already a subscriber.

If you subscribe in more than one way, leave a separate comment for each.

3. For a third chance to win, blog or Tweet about this contest with a link here, then come back and leave another comment telling me about it.

4. For a fourth chance to win, subscribe to the Jerky.com email newsletter, then come back and tell me that you have done that.

5. If you're not a blogger, be sure to leave your contact e-mail address like this to avoid spammers: pianananna(at)gmail(dot)com. If I don't have a way to reach you or you don't respond in three days, your name will be disqualified, and I will choose again, picking my favorite answer.
Good Luck!!

Open to US residents only, 18+.

Winners will be chosen by random.org.

Email addresses will not be shared with any third parties.

This Giveaway ends on Tuesday, March 16, 2010 at midnight EST.

Jerky.com provided me with a free sample of this product to review, and I was under no obligation to review it if I so chose; nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review or sponsor a product giveaway in return for the free product.

If you like this blog, please look for my other blogs:
Thyme for Herbs
Bits, Tales, and Yarns

Organic Peanut Butter Giveaway

pianananna@gmail.com (Jane Marie) — Sat, 06 Mar 2010 12:33:00 +0000

I love peanut butter; I always have. When I was a kid I would have had a peanut butter and jelly sandwich every day if my mother would let me. Peanut butter cookies are my favorite cookie, and I also make a great peanut butter frosting for cakes and cupcakes. Yum!
I have to admit though that I had never tasted an organic peanut butter; I just get stuck in my rut and I like a certain brand.
Tropical Traditions has an organic Coconut Peanut Butter that I just had to try. When I first opened the jar I was very impressed with the fresh peanut smell. I breathed in deeply and then detected a slight coconut fragrance. What an interesting combination! I sampled a tiny taste with a spoon and noticed a different texture than I was used to. Not quite as smooth, but definitely a more true peanut butter taste than any I have had before. I could really go for this!
Next I had to give it a go in a few recipes and on toast, another favorite of mine. Yesterday I made a fresh batch of peanut butter cookies. The texture and flavor was slightly different, but I've noticed that difference any time I switch brands. Mmmmm, very good! As I smacked my lips, my husband came up next to me and snatched a warm cookie. He stated the same thing, a little different but very good just the same. Whenever I've altered one of my mother's recipes, I feel a little like a cheat. Aren't mother's recipes sacred? But then I realized that some things don't always have to stay the same and changes can be for the better. Knowing that Tropical Traditions is using only the best 100% organic peanuts from the US and 100% organic dried coconut from the Philipines, with no other additives or preservatives makes up for the small differences in flavor. Besides I like it, I really like it!
Tropical Traditions offers many recipes for you to try with their products, click here.
If you'd like to give Tropical Traditions Coconut Peanut Butter and try, here's your chance to win a 16-ounce jar!

1. Leave a comment after visiting the Tropical Traditions web site, about what your favorite product would be, or how you would use this peanut butter..

2. For a second chance to win, sign up as an e-mail subscriber with Feedburner, Feed Blitz, or become a Google Follower (see sidebar.) Then leave a second comment telling me you have subscribed or that you are already a subscriber.

If you subscribe in more than one way, leave a separate comment for each.

3. For a third chance to win, blog or Tweet about this contest with a link here, then come back and leave another comment telling me about it.

4. For a fourth chance to win, subscribe to the Tropical Traditions email sales newsletter, then come back and tell me that you have done that.

5. If you're not a blogger, be sure to leave your contact e-mail address like this to avoid spammers: pianananna(at)gmail(dot)com. If I don't have a way to reach you or you don't respond in three days, your name will be disqualified, and I will choose again, picking my favorite answer.

Good Luck!!

Open to US and Canada residents only, 18+.

Winners will be chosen by random.org.

Email addresses will not be shared with any third parties.

This Giveaway ends on Saturday, March 13, 2010 at midnight EST.

Tropical Traditions provided me with a free sample of this product to review, and I was under no obligation to review it if I so chose; nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review or sponsor a product giveaway in return for the free product.

Please make your car a NO PHONE ZONE!!!

If you like this blog, please look for my other blogs:
Thyme for Herbs
Bits, Tales, and Yarns

Lent - Seafood Tacos

pianananna@gmail.com (Jane Marie) — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0000

Seafood Tacos with Cilantro-Jalapeno Sauce

1 T. margarine
1 T. all-purpose flour
1 c. skim milk
3 T. (1 1/2 oz.) shredded Monterey Jack cheese with jalapeno peppers
1 T. minced fresh cilantro
1/2 lb. flounder or sole fillets
1 T. lime juice
1/4 t. ground red pepper
Vegetable cooking spray
1/4 lb. frozen tiny shrimp, thawed
1/4 c. canned black beans, rinsed and drained
1/4 c. finely chopped green onions
1 T. minced fresh cilantro
1 T. chopped sweet red pepper
1 T. chopped sweet yellow pepper
4 (6-in.) flour tortillas

Sprinkle fillets with 1 T. lime juice and ground red pepper.

Cover and marinate in refrigerator for 15 minutes.

Meanwhile, melt margarine in a small saucepan over low heat; add flour, stirring until smooth.
Cook 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Gradually add milk; cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture is thickened and bubbly.
Stir in shredded cheese and 1 T. cilantro; cook until cheese melts, stirring constantly.
Set aside and keep warm.

Coat a large nonstick skillet with cooking spray; place over medium-high heat until hot.
Add fillets and cook fish until fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.
Cut fillets into strips.

Combine reserve cheese mixture, shrimp, beans, and next 4 ingredients in a large bowl; set aside.
Wrap tortillas in paper towels, and warm in microwave.
Unwrap and spoon shrimp mixture evenly over half of each tortilla.
Top shrimp mixture with fish strips, and fold tortillas in half.
Serve immediately.

YIELD: 4 servings

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If you like this blog, please look for my other blogs:
Thyme for Herbs
Bits, Tales, and Yarns

Cajun Dirty Rice

pianananna@gmail.com (Jane Marie) — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 12:00:00 +0000

Dirty Rice
1/2 t. salt
1/2 t. paprika
1/4 t. freshly ground black pepper
1/4 t. dry mustard
1/4 t. dried whole basil
1/4 t. dried whole thyme
1 T. margarine
1/2 c. chopped onion
1/2 c. chopped celery
1/2 c. chopped green pepper
1 clove garlic, minced
2/3 c. uncooked long-grain rice
1 1/3 c. water

Combine first 7 ingredients in a small bowl; stir well. Set aside.

Melt margarine in a large saucepan.
Add celery, onion, green pepper, and garlic, and sauté until vegetables are crisp-tender.
Stir in rice, and sauté until lightly browned. Stir in reserved seasoning mixture and water; bring to a boil.
Cover, reduce heat, and simmer 20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.

YIELD: 6 servings ( 1/2 cup each)
104 calories per serving

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If you like this blog, please look for my other blogs:
Thyme for Herbs
Bits, Tales, and Yarns

Artichoke Dip

pianananna@gmail.com (Jane Marie) — Sun, 28 Feb 2010 15:30:00 +0000

1 c. low-fat cottage cheese
2 T. reduced calorie mayonnaise
2 T. plain nonfat yogurt
1/4 c. grated Parmesan cheese
1 (14 oz.) can artichoke hearts, drained and finely chopped
1/8 t. paprika
1 ( 5 1/4 oz.) box whole grain melba rounds

Combine first 4 ingredients in blender or food processor; cover and process until smooth.
Stir in chopped artichoke hearts.
Cover and chill thoroughly.
Sprinkle with paprika just before serving.
Serve with melba rounds.

YIELD: 8 appetizer servings = 1/4 c. plus 1 T. each dip and melba rounds apiece

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If you like this blog, please look for my other blogs:
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Bits, Tales, and Yarns

Sourdough Tomato Bread

pianananna@gmail.com (Jane Marie) — Sat, 27 Feb 2010 12:44:00 +0000

Here's a recipe you can make that will need the sourdough starter from yesterday's post.

Sourdough Tomato Bread:
1 ( 28 oz.) can tomatoes, undrained and mashed
1 c. Sourdough starter ( at room temperature)
1/4 c. grated Parmesan cheese
2 T. minced fresh chives
2 t. vegetable oil
1 t. garlic powder
1/2 t. salt
1/2 t. baking powder
1/2 t. dried whole oregano
2 pkg. dry yeast
1/4 c. warm water (105-115 degrees)
9 1/2 c. whole wheat flour
vegetable cooking spray

Combine first 9 ingredients in a large bowl; beat at low speed until well blended. Set aside.
Dissolve yeast in warm water; let stand 5 minutes.
Add to tomato mixture; beat well.
Gradually add flour, beating until well blended. (dough will be sticky.)

Turn dough out onto a lightly floured surface; knead until smooth and elastic (about 8-10 minutes - if using a stand mixer, until dough pulls away from the bowl)
Place in a large bowl that has been coated with cooking spray, turn to grease top.
Cover and let rise in a warm place (85 degrees)free from drafts, 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Punch dough down and divide in half.
Shape each half into a loaf.
Place loaves in two 9x5x3 in. loaf pans that have been coated with cooking spray.
Cover and let rise in a warm place, free from drafts, 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Bake at 375 degrees for 40 minutes or until loaves sound hollow when tapped.
Remove from pans, and let cool on wire racks.

YIELD: 36 servings
128 calories per 1/2 inch slice
cholesterol .........0
sodium..............85
fat..................1.2
calcium.............33

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If you like this blog, please look for my other blogs:
Thyme for Herbs
Bits, Tales, and Yarns

Sourdough Starter

pianananna@gmail.com (Jane Marie) — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 12:44:00 +0000

Have you always wondered how to make your own sourdough starter? It's easy but it does take some time - days in fact. For some bread recipes, sourdough starter is required, so if you are planning on using it in a recipe, you'll need to plan ahead.

Sourdough Starter:

1 c. warm water (105-115 degrees)
1/4 c. plain low-fat yogurt
1 c. all-purpose flour
Starter Food (See below)

Combine water and yogurt; stir well. Pour into a 2 qt. non-metal casserole dish that has been warmed.
Cover loosely with plastic wrap or cheesecloth; let stand in a warm place (85 degrees) for 24 hours.
Gradually stir in flour until well blended.
Cover and let stand in a warm place (85 degrees) for 72 hours; stirring 2-3 times daily.
Place fermented mixture in refrigerator, and stir once a day.
Use within 11 days.

To use starter, remove from refrigerator; let stand at room temperature at lest 1 hour.
Stir starter well, and measure amount needed for recipe.
Replenish remaining starter with Starter Food, and return to refrigerator.
Use starter within 11 days, stirring daily.
YIELD:
1/12 cups (25 calories per tablespoon)

Starter Food :
3/4 c, all-purpose flour
3/4 c. warm water (105-115 degrees)

Combine both ingredients, stir into remaining Sourdough Starter.
YIELD:
1 cup

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If you like this blog, please look for my other blogs:
Thyme for Herbs
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Lent - Sweet and Sour Catfish

pianananna@gmail.com (Jane Marie) — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 12:29:00 +0000

For the Lenten season, I am going to run a fish recipe every Thursday, so if you fast omitting meat from your diet, you should enjoy this series. If you are not a faster, but still like fish, this series will be perfect for you also. The first one is catfish - a favorite at our house.

Vegetable cooking spray
1 t. vegetable oil
1/2 c. chopped onion
3/4 c. sliced carrots
2 T. brown sugar
1/4 c. rice wine vinegar
3 T. Chablis or other dry white wine
3 T. water
3 T. reduced calorie catsup
2 T. cornstarch
1 1/2 t. water
3/4 c. snow pea pods ( 2 1/2 ounces)
4 ( 6 oz.) dressed farm-raised catfish
1 T. lemon juice
1 t. garlic powder

Coat a large nonstick skillet with cooking spray; add oil. Place over medium-high heat until hot.
Add onion, and sauté until tender.
Add carrot and next 5 ingredients.
Bring to a boil, boil 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Soften cornstarch in 1 1/2 t. water; stir into onion mixture.
Add snow peas, cook stirring constantly, until vegetables are crisp-tender and mixture is thickened. Set aside and keep warm.
Place fish on rack of a broiler pan that has been coated with cooking spray. Brush fish with lemon juice and sprinkle with garlic powder.
Broil 4 inches from heat for 6 minutes.
Carefully turn with spatula; broil 5 minutes or until fish flakes easily when tested with a fork.
Spoon vegetable mixture over fish.
Serve immediately.

YIELD: 4 servings
268 calories per serving

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If you like this blog, please look for my other blogs:
Thyme for Herbs
Bits, Tales, and Yarns

Ratatouille Soup

pianananna@gmail.com (Jane Marie) — Thu, 25 Feb 2010 12:00:00 +0000

Vegetable cooking spray

1 t. vegetable oil
1 med. onion, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced
1 med.green pepper, seeded and chopped
1/3 c. chopped celery
1 (1-lb.) eggplant, peeled and cut into 1/2 in. cubes
1 med. zucchini, sliced
1 (16-oz) can whole tomatoes, undrained and coarsely chopped
1/2 t. dried whole oregano
1/4 t. pepper
1/4 t. dried whole basil
2 c. no-salt added tomato juice
1 c. water
2 T. plus 2 t. grated Parmesan cheese

Coat a large Dutch oven with cooking spray; add oil.

Place over medium-high heat until hot.

Add onion, garlic, green pepper, and celery, and sauté 5 minutes.

Add eggplant and sauté an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Stir in zucchini and next 6 ingredients; cover, reduce heat, and cook 15 minutes or until vegetables are tender, stirring occasionally.

Spoon soup into individual serving bowls.

Sprinkle 1 t. Parmesan cheese over each serving.

YIELD: 8 cups
67 calories per 1 cup serving

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If you like this blog, please look for my other blogs:
Thyme for Herbs
Bits, Tales, and Yarns

Mexican Beef Stew with Tortilla Dumplings

pianananna@gmail.com (Jane Marie) — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 14:16:00 +0000

1 lb. ground chuck
1/2 t. beef-flavored bouillon granules
1 t. ground cumin
1 t. minced fresh cilantro
1/2 t. pepper
1/2 t. dried whole oregano
1/2 t. dried whole basil
2 ( 4-oz) can chopped green chiles, drained
2 1/2 c. water
2 1/2 c. spicy hot vegetable juice cocktail
3 ( 6-in) flour tortillas, cut into 1-inch pieces

Cook ground chuck in a large Dutch oven over medium heat until browned, stirring to crumble. Drain and pat dry with paper towels.

Wipe pan drippings from the dutch oven with a paper towel.

Return meat to Dutch oven, add remaining ingredients except tortillas. Bring to a boil; cover, reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
Add tortillas, cover and cook an additional 20 minutes or until tortillas resemble dumplings.

YIELD: 6 cups
240 calories per 1 cup serving

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If you like this blog, please look for my other blogs:
Thyme for Herbs
Bits, Tales, and Yarns

Chemical-Free Power Cleaner Giveaway !

pianananna@gmail.com (Jane Marie) — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 16:33:00 +0000

Have you ever had giggles of joy and childlike laughter while cleaning your kitchen? I never thought it was possible, but that's what happened to me when I was given the chance to try out an Inoator HOM from Activeion (pronounced active -eye-on. ) I don't know quite where to begin except to say this is a new concept in cleaning that will blow your mind!

Why am I talking about it here on my cooking blog? Because with the worries we all have now about salmonella, E-coli, H1N1, and and all the other harmful bacterias out there, we want our kitchens to be as clean and safe as possible. But does that mean you have to spritz everything with chemicals? ABSOLUTELY NOT!!

Now here's the weird part; or so it will seem at first. Activeion has discovered a way to clean and sanitize using only water -- yes I said water. I could not believe it, but I'm telling you it really works! You fill the reservoir with regular tap water, plug in the charging unit to any electrical outlet and wait for the red light to turn off- that means it's ready to go. The water is now ready to be ionized! There is a scientific explanation, but I'm not much on science. Please take a few minutes and watch this fun video with Bill Nye the Science Guy, and he'll tell you how it works. Then if you believe it -- and me -- come back and enter to win an Ionator HOM of your own. You'll be cleaning everything in sight just to see if it works. I could not stop myself. I ran from the stove, to the microwave, to the windows, and the countertops, saying "no, this can't be!" Amazing! I'm thrilled. I hope you will be, too.

The Activeion has been featured on PBS, CNBC, Ellen Degeneres, many others. It is now being used in schools and hospitals all over the country. If you're ready to think outside the box and want an Ionator HOM from Activeion of your own, here's how to enter to win one:

Here's how to enter:

1. Leave a comment after visiting the Activeion web site, and tell me something exciting and new you learned or how you would use the Ionator HOM.

2. For a second chance to win, sign up as an e-mail subscriber with Feedburner, Feed Blitz, or become a Google Follower (see sidebar.) Then leave a second comment telling me you have subscribed or that you are already a subscriber.

If you subscribe in more than one way, leave a separate comment for each.

3. For a third chance to win, blog or Tweet about this contest with a link here, then come back and leave another comment telling me about it.

4. If you're not a blogger, be sure to leave your contact e-mail address like this to avoid spammers: pianananna(at)gmail(dot)com. If I don't have a way to reach you or you don't respond in three days, your name will be disqualified, and I will choose again, picking my favorite answer.

Good Luck!!

Open to US residents only, 18+.

Winners will be chosen by random.org.

Email addresses will not be shared with any third parties.

This Giveaway ends on Monday, February 15th at midnight EST.

Activeion provided me with a free sample of this product to review, and I was under no obligation to review it; nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review or sponsor a product giveaway in return for the free product.

If you like this blog, please look for my other blogs:
Thyme for Herbs
Bits, Tales, and Yarns

Super Bowl XLIV Barbecue Sauce

pianananna@gmail.com (Jane Marie) — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 14:58:00 +0000

What are you doing on Sunday, February 7, 2010? If you're not watching football, something must be wrong! It is predicted that over 90 million people will watch Super Bowl XLIV. That's a lot of football fans. Or maybe not. Maybe you just like to gather with your friends, eat, and watch some great commercials. Whatever your motives, and whoever you root for, a good barbecue sauce is always needed to help the day along. Make your own and surprise your guests. This recipe is easy, herbal, and no fat, but, beware, there is some sugar in the ketchup.

1 c. ketchup
1 1/2 c. water
1 T. flour
2 T. tarragon vinegar or balsamic vinegar (any herbal vinegar will do)
1 T. Worcestershire sauce
1/4 t. oregano
1/4 t. marjoram
1/8 t. thyme
dash of garlic salt

Put all ingredients in the blender and process at blend until thoroughly mixed through.
Spread on meat while broiling or grilling.

If you like this blog, please look for my other blogs:
Thyme for Herbs
Bits, Tales, and Yarns

Two Standby Salad Dressings

pianananna@gmail.com (Jane Marie) — Wed, 03 Feb 2010 14:36:00 +0000

Looking for ways to save on your grocery budget? Make your own salad dressings.
Here are a few old favorites of mine that are easy to make with ingredients right out of your cupboard.

Low Cal Herb Dressing:

1 8oz. can tomato sauce
2 T tarragon vinegar (if you don't have that any vinegar will do, especially good is balsamic)
1 t. Worcestershire sauce
1 t. onion juice
1 t. dill seed
1/2 t. salt
1/2 t. basil
1/4 t. sugar
dash of salt
dash of pepper

Put all ingredients in the blender and process at whip until well-blended.

Celery Seed Dressing:

1/2 c. olive oil or vegetable oil
1 t. salt
1/4 c. vinegar (I use apple cider in this one)
1/2 honey
1/2 t. celery seed

Put all ingredients in blender and process at whip until well-blended.

1/21/2 c.

If you like this blog, please look for my other blogs:
Thyme for Herbs
Bits, Tales, and Yarns

Canadian Raw Organic Honey Giveaway

pianananna@gmail.com (Jane Marie) — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 12:46:00 +0000

I love honey! I think most people do, but the thing I don't like is the sticky, drippy mess. Did you ever hear of a honey that doesn't drip AND is full of flavor? Add to that a honey that is USDA Certified Organic. I didn't know there was such a thing. How do you control bee activity?

First of all, organic honey is only found a few places in the world now because bees will travel up to 4 miles from their hives, and if fertilized plants are nearby, they will find the flowers, going about their pollinating business. In the wild frontiers of Canada, away from any farms that use fertilizer, Tropical Traditions harvests their exclusive brand called Honey Traditions. It is truly a raw honey, and is only harvested for a six-week period in summer after the bees have pollinated the wild vegetation that surrounds the area.

Be prepared for a new taste sensation because this honey is unprocessed, and wild. The only heat that comes near it is equal to the temperatures inside the hive. Because of that, there are pollens and fine crystals present, and the texture is similar to a soft margarine; therefore no drips!

I like to use it on warm English muffins in the morning. I also add some to my tea; it's so comforting on a cold winter day. This weekend I made a celery seed salad dressing with honey (I'll post that recipe soon.) So use it as you normally would, but be ready for a burst of flavor, while you have the well-being of knowing that you are doing something good for your family and yourself.

Tropical Traditions is offering you a chance to try this fantastic organic Canadian Raw Honey. Here's how you can win a 17.6 oz jar:

1. Leave a comment after visiting the Tropical Traditions web site, about what your favorite product would be, or how you would use this honey.

2. For a second chance to win, sign up as an e-mail subscriber with Feedburner, Feed Blitz, or become a Google Follower (see sidebar.) Then leave a second comment telling me you have subscribed or that you are already a subscriber.

3. For a third chance to win, blog or Tweet about this contest with a link here, then come back and leave another comment telling me about it.

4. For a fourth chance to win, subscribe to the Tropical Traditions email sales newsletter, then come back and tell me that you have done that.

If you subscribe in more than one way, leave a separate comment for each.

5. If you're not a blogger, be sure to leave your contact e-mail address like this to avoid spammers: pianananna(at)gmail(dot)com. If I don't have a way to reach you or you don't respond in three days, your name will be disqualified, and I will choose again, picking my favorite answer.
Good Luck!!

Open to US and Canadian residents only, 18+.

Winners will be chosen by random.org.

Email addresses will not be shared with any third parties.

This Giveaway ends on .........Monday, February 1, 2010 at midnight EST.

Tropical Traditions provided me with a free sample of this product to review, and I was under no obligation to review it if I so chose. Nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review or sponsor a product giveaway in return for the free product.

If you like this blog, please look for my other blogs:
Thyme for Herbs
Bits, Tales, and Yarns

Mini Quiches

pianananna@gmail.com (Jane Marie) — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 17:14:00 +0000

Quiche is just a fancy French name for baked scrambled eggs, as far as I'm concerned. Most quiches have crusts; without a crust it's considered a frittata (Italian).
This particular recipe is made with spinach and sweet potatoes. You can go all vegetarian or add turkey bacon on top. If cholesterol is not a concern, or you wish to splurge, go all the way with real bacon. Either way, you'll find this a fun and easy way to serve breakfast or brunch to guests. It also works great for your own on-the-go breakfast. Make it in advance, put it in the fridge, then a quick reheat in the microwave in the morning, and you're out the door. Better yet, take it to work for a healthy lunch!

3/4 c. lightly packed shredded sweet potato
1 c. lightly packed chopped fresh spinach
6-8 strips of turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled
1/3 c. shredded Swiss cheese
1/4 c. diced sweet onion
2 T. cornmeal
2 T. flour
1 t. dried basil
1/4 t. salt
1/4 t. pepper
5 eggs
1 c. soymilk (I use 1/2% or 2% milk)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In a large bowl, toss together sweet potatoes, spinach, turkey bacon, cheese, onion, cornmeal, flour, basil, salt, and pepper.

Spoon mixture evenly into cups of well-greased/nonstick muffin pans. (I do both.)

In a bowl, (you may use the same one for ease in clean up) whisk together eggs,and milk until smooth.
Pour mixture evenly over sweet potato-spinach filling in cups.

Bake for 20-25 minutes or until center is set.

Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack for 5 minutes.

Turn quiches out onto rack and turn upright until ready to serve.

Great right from the oven!

If you like this blog, please look for my other blogs:
Thyme for Herbs
Bits, Tales, and Yarns

Crockpot Chicken Cacciatore

pianananna@gmail.com (Jane Marie) — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 02:14:00 +0000

Mama Mia, Here's a Crockpot Italian dinner version of Chicken Cacciatore!

1 pkg. (1 lb 4 oz) bone-in skinless chicken thighs
1 jar ( 4.5 oz) sliced mushrooms, drained
1 can (6 oz.) Italian-style tomato paste
1 can ( 14 oz.) chicken broth
1/2 c. white wine, if desired
1 dried bay leaf
1/2 t. dried sage leaves
12 oz. uncooked spaghetti
1/4 t.dried thyme leaves
1 T. cornstarch
Shredded Parmesan cheese, if desired

1. Place chicken in 3- to 4-quart slow cooker. Add remaining ingredients except spaghetti, thyme, cornstarch, and cheese.

2. Cover and cook on low heat for 8 to 10 hours.

3.About 15 minutes before serving, cook and drain spaghetti as directed on the package; keep warm.

4. Remove chicken from the cooker; keep warm. Stir thyme into sauce in cooker. Increase heat setting to high. Mix 1/4 cup sauce from cooker and the cornstarch in a small bowl; stir into remaining sauce in cooker. Cover and cook 10 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove bay leaf.

5. Serve chicken and sauce over spaghetti. Sprinkle with cheese.

Serves 6.

If you like this blog, please look for my other blogs:
Thyme for Herbs
Bits, Tales, and Yarns

Tropical Traditions Coconut Flour Giveaway

pianananna@gmail.com (Jane Marie) — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 15:39:00 +0000

If you've been following along with An Herbal Bedfellow, you know that I have done two reviews and giveaways for Tropical Traditions and their coconut products. Today I want to talk about Tropical Traditions Organic Coconut Flour.

I usually use regular white flour or wheat flour so this was something totally new to me.
Even though there is a long list of coconut product recipes on the Tropical Traditions web site. I went straight for the Chocolate Fudge Brownie recipe on the back of the bag. We are very big brownie fans in this house, so I thought it would be fun to try something new.

We found the brownie to be very tasty and chocolaty in flavor, but if you are prepared for the same texture you're used to, you will be surprised. This flour created a more dense brownie. We tried them both with and without frosting and preferred it with frosting. It seemed to add the mositure that we are used to. Tropical Traditions Coconut Flour is organic and USDA certified. It's a product of the Phillipines, producing a long list of items ranging from household products, to skin care, to pet care products. I have a new puppy just four months old, so that will be my next venture into the world of coconuts. It's so much fun to try something new, don't you think?
Tropical Traditions would like you to have a chance to try their Organic Coconut flour, too. Enter now to win a 2.2 lb bag -- here's how!

1. Leave a comment about something you learned at the Tropical Traditions web site.

2. For a second chance to win, sign up as an e-mail subscriber with Feedburner, Feed Blitz, or become a Google Follower (see sidebar.) Then leave a second comment telling me you have subscribed or that you are already a subscriber.

3. For a third chance to win, blog or Tweet about this contest with a link here, then come back and leave another comment telling me about it.

4. For a fourth chance to win, subscribe to the Tropical Traditions email sales newsletter, then come back and tell me that you have done that.
If you subscribe in more than one way, leave a separate comment for each.

5. If you're not a blogger, be sure to leave your contact e-mail address like this to avoid spammers: pianananna(at)gmail(dot)com. If I don't have a way to reach you or you don't respond in three days, your name will be disqualified, and I will choose again, picking my favorite answer.

Good Luck!!

Open to US and Canadian residents only, 18+.

Winners will be chosen by random.org.

Email addresses will not be shared with any third parties.

This Giveaway ends on .........................Sunday, January 3, 2010 at midnuight EST

Disclaimer: Tropical Traditions provided me with a free sample of this product to review, and I was under no obligation to review it if I so chose. Nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review or sponsor a product giveaway in return for the free product.

If you like this blog, please look for my other blogs:

Thyme for Herbs

Bits, Tales, and Yarns

Basil Baguettes

pianananna@gmail.com (Jane Marie) — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Recently, I went to a Christmas cocktail party. This very simple hors d'oeurve was offered by the hostess. I added a little twist of my own and here it is -- just right for your Holiday party.

You can make your own Pesto easily by simply adding a large bunch (2 cups) of basil leaves, 1/2 c. olive oil, and 2 T. roasted pine nuts, 2 cloves minced garlic, 1/2 c. Parmesan cheese, and 2 T, Romano cheese to a blender. Blend until it is of a spreading consistency. Add more olive oil if necessary to get the right consistency.

Slice a baguette into 2-inch slices. Brush on both sides with olive oil, place on a cookie sheet, and toast in a 350 degree oven for approx. 3-5 minutes. Watch closely so it does not burn, turning over at the halfway point. Remove when lightly browned.

After the slices have cooled, generously spread cream cheese or Neufchatel on each slice and then top with a dollop of pesto.

If you like this blog, please look for my other blogs:
Thyme for Herbs
Happenstance House

Crock Pot Cantonese Dinner

pianananna@gmail.com (Jane Marie) — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 12:32:00 +0000

There are no herbs in this recipe, but it's another great Crock Pot meal for the busy holiday times. This Cantonese style dinner serves 4. For my family of two, there was enough for a second-day dish. No real cooking two days in a row! You can't beat that.

1 1/2 pounds boneless pork, cut into strips
1 T. oil
1 onion, sliced
1 small green pepper, cut into strips
1 4 oz. can sliced mushrooms, drained
1 8 oz. can tomato sauce
3 T. brown sugar
1 1/2 T. vinegar
1 1/2 t. salt
2 t. Worcestershire sauce

Brown pork strips in oil in skillet to remove excess fat.
Drain well.
Place pork strips and all remaining ingredients into Crock Pot.
Cover and cook on Low for 6-8 hours. (high : 3 hours)
Serve over hot rice.

Serves 4 but recipe may be doubled.

If you like this blog, please look for my other blogs:
Thyme for Herbs
Happenstance House

Crock Pot Hungarian Goulash

pianananna@gmail.com (Jane Marie) — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 15:15:00 +0000

Christmas is coming, and the hustle and bustle has begun. There's no time to make a really hearty meal now for the family. But it's cold outside and that's just what you need. So why not fall back on the crock pot?
Truly, there's nothing like putting all of the food in the crock pot in the morning and then not thinking about it for the rest of the day. If you work out of the home, that first smell when you open the door is just like when you were a kid coming home from school to steamy windows and mouth watering flavors wafting through the air. If you're the cook in the house, you never get that sensation anymore.

Here's a great crock pot recipe based on the traditional Hungarian Goulash. I've been making this for years, and it is a favorite. I make the full recipe even for the two of us, and then we can have it again on the next day (one less meal to make.) My husband says it's better the second day anyway. I'm sure you'll love this international favorite.

2 pounds round steak, cut into 1/2 inch cubes
1 c. chopped onion
1 clove garlic, minced
2 T. flour
1 t. salt
1/2 t. pepper
1 1/2 T. paprika
1/4 t. dried thyme, crushed
1 bay leaf
1 14 1/2 oz. can tomatoes
1 c. sour cream

Put steak cubes. onion, garlic in Crock Pot.
Stir in flour and mix to coat steak cubes.
Add all remaining ingredients except sour cream.
Stir well.
Cover and cook on low for 7-10 hours. (high for 3-4 hours, stirring occasionally.)
Add sour cream 30 minutes before serving, and stir in thoroughly.
Serve over hot buttered egg noodles.

If you like this blog, please look for my other blogs:
Thyme for Herbs
Happenstance House

Dining Room, Kichen and Housewares

pianananna@gmail.com (Jane Marie) — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 15:22:00 +0000

As most of you know by know, my house is for sale. It's been a long and agonizing wait to sell, and it's not over yet. I keep dreaming, though, and browsing the Internet for ideas. What will my new kitchen and dining room be like? What kind of furniture will I use this time since I am leaving the antiques in the past where they belong?
I found this wonderful site, while searching for Dining Room Furniture, and I realized that you, my readers, might be interested also. With each click I went deeper and deeper into the site, and it seemed to never end. I found great furniture and accessories, and also a huge selection of kitchen items, dishes, flatware, and even wine racks! All wonderful items for wannabe chefs or just a plain good cook.

Dining Rooms Direct offers hassle free returns and free shipping. Did I say FREE? Yes! This is one web site that I am going to bookmark for sure. I'll need lots of time to browse for myself and maybe for some Christmas gifts. I also spotted the Clearance Center at the bottom of the page. At the top there is a link to 100 gifts for under $100. Oh my, so much to choose from. Let me know what you think.

If you like this blog, please look for my other blogs:
Thyme for Herbs
Happenstance House

Tropical Traditions Coconut Giveaway

pianananna@gmail.com (Jane Marie) — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Usually this blog is about recipes -- healthy, low fat recipes. Sometimes I like to vary from that specific area and delve into other parts of the cooking process.

In October I sponsored a giveaway of Tropical Traditions Coconut Oil, and I was so impressed with the product that I asked to try something else that they produce -- coconut flakes.
One of the things I wanted to talk about was the use of fresh ingredients. I'm sure you know that the best ingredients produce the best dishes. It's also important to feel secure with the producer of the item you are using.
Tropical Traditions is a company that takes pride in their product and they are USDA Certified Organic. The coconut arrived in a large 1 gallon/ 2 pound tub. It was sealed so tightly that it took quite a bit of work to get it open, but it was well worth the effort. When I finally lifted the lid,the aromas released were of fresh coconuts. I felt as though I was right there when the coconut was collected from the tree and cracked open.
After trying some of my favorite recipes and a few from Tropical Traditions web site, I was convinced. This is the best flaked coconut I have had to date.

Here are a few of the recipes to be found at their site. Great for the many Christmas gatherings that you are sure to be cooking for.

Banana Coconut Cake

Chocolate Coconut Bark

Coconut Almond Balls

So go ahead and eat lightly but enjoy the taste of the tropics.

Tropical Traditions also has a Referral Program, so if you place an order with them as a first-time customer, please select “Referred by a friend” and in the box that says “How did you hear of us?” enter my sponsor ID number… 5502694. By telling Tropical Traditions that I referred you, you will receive a complimentary copy of the book Virgin Coconut Oil: How it has changed people’s lives and how it can change yours! by Brian and Marianita Shilhavy with your first order! This book is filled with testimonies and research showing how healthy coconut oil is, and it also includes over 85 recipes showing how one can incorporate coconut into their diet.

Giveaway Alert:

Would like you to have a chance to win the same 2 pound tub of coconut flakes that I received? Here's how you can enter:

1. Leave a comment about something you learned at the Tropical Traditions web site or tell me what your favorite product is.
　
2. For a second chance to win, sign up as an e-mail subscriber with Feedburner, Feed Blitz, or become a Google Follower (see sidebar.) Then leave a second comment telling me you have subscribed or that you are already a subscriber.
If you subscribe in more than one way, leave a separate comment for each.
　
3. For a third chance to win, blog or Tweet about this contest with a link here, then come back and leave another comment telling me about it.
　
4. For a fourth chance to win, subscribe to the Tropical Traditions email sales newsletter, then come back and tell me that you have done that.
　
5. If you're not a blogger, be sure to leave your contact e-mail address like this to avoid spammers: pianananna(at)gmail(dot)com. If I don't have a way to reach you or you don't respond in three days, your name will be disqualified, and I will choose again, picking my favorite answer.
Good Luck!!
　
Open to US and Canada residents only, 18+.
Winners will be chosen by random.org.
Email addresses will not be shared with any third parties.
This Giveaway ends on Monday, November 30,2009 at midnight.

Tropical Traditions provided me with a free sample of this product to review, and I was under no obligation to review it if I so chose. Nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review or sponsor a product giveaway in return for the free product.

　

If you like this blog, please look for my other blogs:
Thyme for Herbs
Happenstance House