Living the Allergic Life

Ham Roll Ups {Egg-Free, Dairy-Free}

2012-02-27T13:26:00.000-05:00

My kids LOVE these! And I love them because they are quick and easy to make. My mom used to make these when I was young and I remember them being one of my favorite meals. These are normally served with homemade cheese sauce {recipe below} but my allergy girl loves these without the cheese. She begs for more!

Ham Roll Ups {Egg-Free, Dairy-Free}

1 pkg Pillsbury Crescent Rolls {contains wheat}
ham slices {or leftover chicken}
steamed broccoli

Cheese Sauce {dairy-free}
2 Tbsp Smart Balance Light
2 Tbsp Flour
1 cup Almond Milk
1 cup Daiya Vegan Cheese, shredded
{I make regular cheese sauce because my allergy girl does not like the dairy-free cheese sauce and prefers to eat them plain, but the above recipe will work for a dairy-free cheese sauce.}

Rotisserie Chicken Salad {Egg-Free, Dairy-Free}

2012-02-24T11:28:00.000-05:00

Sorry for the lack of posts this past week! We've had sickness going through our house every few days for the past two weeks. {Hoping it's gone - WAY GONE - now!} Today I decided I was hungry for something yummy for lunch so I looked through the fridge and realized I had all the 'stuff' to make Chicken Salad! I love a good, fresh chicken salad. This one is quick and very yummy!

Rotisserie Chicken Salad {Egg-Free, Dairy-Free}

Rotisserie Chicken leftovers from last night {or canned chicken or other cooked chicken will do}
Red Seedless Grapes, washed and sliced in half
Garlic Powder
Granulated Onion or Onion Powder
Salt
Black Pepper
Chopped Green Onions {optional, but oh-so-good!}
1/4 cup to 1/2 cup Vegenaise {or Mayo if you are not allergic to eggs}

Cut your chicken into small pieces {if you are using canned, just shred it with a fork}. Add sliced grapes, seasonings {to your taste}, onions and Vegenaise. Stir until thoroughly combined and spoon onto your favorite egg-free, dairy-free bread. Simple and delicious.

Have a great weekend!

Giant Cookie {Dairy-Free, Egg-Free, Peanut-Free}

2012-02-15T17:33:00.000-05:00

If you've ever walked through the food court at the mall, you've been tempted by those huge, scrumptious cookies with icing all over them. One time, (in college) I bought the sandwich kind with thick icing in the middle of two chocolate chip cookies the size of my hand. Mmm. That was good. As my hips can still attest to several years later. It was worth every bite. And I remember the time long ago that my mom found a recipe for making one at home with a cake mix, and yes, it was so good. It's been awhile since I've thought about making one, but as I was standing here in the kitchen wondering what in the world I was going to make so my daughter could have her alternative snack in her Truth Trackers Valentine's party tonight, I remembered them. And I just so happened to have a cake mix on hand. So, here's to hoping she likes it! {I'm making a large one and then using a heart shaped cookie cutter to make smaller ones from it.}

Giant Cookie {Dairy-Free, Egg-Free, Peanut-Free}

1 cake mix {read the labels to find one your child can eat. I bought Duncan Hines Strawberry Supreme which contains wheat and soy and has been processed around tree nuts. This one is okay for her.}
3 tsp Ener-G Egg Replacer + 4 Tablespoons warm water, mixed well {OR 2 Eggs if you are not allergic}
1/3 cup vegetable oil
Vegan Chocolate Chips, optional - I chose not to use them this time.

Mix all ingredients well. Roll out onto a cookie sheet in the shape you want. You can bake it and then cut shapes or cut shapes first. Frost as desired. Serve!

Wasn't that easy??

Fun Valentine's Day Treat! {Allergy Free}

2012-02-11T18:00:00.001-05:00

Last week I was doing some Valentine's Day shopping for my girls and came across something fun! I almost walked past them because I was SURE they'd have milk in them, but I stopped anyway and read the label...no allergens! YAY! There are 6 in a pack, so I decided to surprise my 3 girls this morning at breakfast with one each and then we'll still have 3 left for Valentine's Day. After their reaction, I decided to share this fun treat with all of you.

Got Milk? Milk Straws! They have other flavors, too, but with Valentine's Day coming, I decided pink {strawberry} was best for us.

15 Minute Caramel Popcorn {Allergy-Free}

2012-02-10T18:17:00.000-05:00

Tonight is movie night at our house and you know what that means....popcorn! I decided to jazz it up a little since we're watching one of my all-time favorite Disney movies - Lady and the Tramp. Can't wait to watch this with my girls - and Hubs! Here's the low-down:

15 Minute Caramel Popcorn {Allergy-Free}

{I use Orville Reddenbacher in a jar. Air pop a 1/2 cup kernels = 3-5 quarts popcorn}

In a microwave safe bowl, heat 1 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup Smart Balance Light, 1/4 cup corn syrup, 1 tsp vanilla, 1/2 tsp salt for 2 min. Stir, heat another minute. Stir. Then, add 1 tsp baking soda and heat another minute. Stir.

How do you eat your popcorn??

For more yummy popcorn flavors try this and this.

OREO Cookie Balls {Dairy-Free, Nut-Free, Egg-Free}

2012-02-08T13:57:00.000-05:00

Let me introduce you to Milk's favorite cookie ball! Yes, it is made with OREOs. {I used Whole Foods brand because I was there and didn't want to make another stop just to get OREO brand, but OREO brand is still free of dairy, nuts and eggs.} It's my turn to send snacks to school for my girl's class on Friday, and when I saw these, my mind was made up. They are very rich and delicious! Here's the how-to in pictures:
You'll want to have these things on hand:

Then:

Then, you'll want to freeze these cookie balls for about 10 minutes. While they are setting up, melt your vegan chocolate chips {for every 6 oz of chips, add 1T shortening - this will aid in the dipping process} in a microwave safe bowl on high for 1 minute. Stir, then continue heating/stirring every 15 seconds until completely melted and liquid. Dip the cookie balls in the melted chocolate and immediately sprinkle with fun sprinkles. Once done, put them back in the fridge for about 1 hour.

Monkey Cupcakes

2012-02-05T21:04:00.000-05:00

Tonight we were having a special snack in our children's class at church so I had to come up with an allergy-friendly version for my daughter. The theme was monkeys and the rest of the class was having cupcakes/cake, so naturally I chose to make my girl a monkey cupcake. It was actually fun and turned out pretty good, so I thought I'd share it with you. {Just don't pay too much attention to my lack of artistic ability in the cupcake decorating!}

Use your favorite cupcake recipe. I used a boxed yellow cake mix from Duncan Hines because it contains no milk or nuts and I substitute the 2 eggs with Ener-G Egg Replacer.

Buy or make your favorite chocolate frosting. I used Pillsbury Milk Chocolate which actually has no milk in it....go figure. Always check the label, don't take my word for it.

After you bake and frost your cupcakes, get out 3 solid color cookies that are allergy-friendly. I used graham crackers because that is all I had on hand. Round cookies are ready for use, but if you are using graham crackers, carve out two small half circles and one larger circle to use for ears and the nose/mouth area. See pic.

Next, use white frosting or mini marshmallows to make the whites of the eyes. Then, add a dark pupil on each side. {I used tiny hot chocolate style marshmallows because that's all I had on hand.} You can make the nose and mouth by piping chocolate frosting accordingly or by melting chocolate chips like I did and using a toothpick to draw it on. I didn't have much time, so I went the easy route.

I'm sure you could do a better job, so if you make these, post them on our facebook wall here. I'd love to see your version!

"Like" Us On Facebook!

2012-02-04T21:12:00.000-05:00

Well, I decided it was high time to create a Facebook page for this website so you can find it HERE. It's called 'Living the Allergic Life'. Go there and click 'Like' to get frequent updates on food recalls due to allergens, great food-allergy related articles from some other insightful sources and a link to each new blog post that goes live from this site. I come in contact with lots of info and resources that I know would be helpful to you all, but I don't always have time to post about it on my blog. So, Facebook will be a great way for me to share those things with you in a timely manner.

I really hope you'll come and 'Like' me on Facebook! As soon as I get 100 'Likes', I will be having a giveaway! So, please stop by!

Allergies and your Church

2012-01-21T22:01:00.000-05:00

I had a reader email me asking how I deal with my child's food allergies at church so I thought I'd just post about my experience and give you some ideas of ways you can help your church in this area.

I have been very blessed to be in a church where my child's food allergies are taken seriously. I only knew of one child (I'm sure there were more) at church having food allergies before my daughter was diagnosed as a baby. This diagnosis changed our lives in so many ways, not the least of which, was the way we had to train our minds to be on alert every time we were going to have to leave our girl with another caregiver. We are in church a few times a week and almost every time a snack is given in her class. (Especially in younger age classes) We made sure to remind the nursery workers and/or teachers every time we dropped her off that she has food allergies. I remember talking with our nursery supervisor (who is really on the ball and organized) about what I could do to keep my girl safe in her classes. We talked about protocol and then I was able to order allergy alert stickers for our church that were very bright and drew attention to whomever was wearing them. The stickers have proven to be a good alert system at our church. We use a check-in system for the nurseries and the stickers are at the supervisor's stand in the hallway. I would place one on my girl's back and one on her bag. Sometimes I'd put one on her cup. There are several kids in our church now with food allergies because it's just becoming more common.

I would suggest talking with your church leader (who is in charge of the nursery or children's ministry) bout possibly getting stickers for food allergic kids. You can find some good ones on etsy.com or just google 'food allergy sticker' and you'll find several options. I suggest getting bright colored ones so that they are noticeable on any color of clothing. If your church doesn't want to provide them, buy some for your child. Thy really are a great investment.

Also, speak to the person in charge about what needs to happen in case of an allergic reaction. We are blessed to have name tags (as part of our check-in system) with the parent's cell number on them. I know most of our nursery workers and they know me, but if I don't know a teacher that may be substituting in my girl's class, I will introduce myself and explain the allergy issues. My girl is 6 now and very aware of her allergies, so she knows not to eat certain things. If she isn't sure, she will almost always decline or bring it home so I can check it out first.

Nursery workers change at every service so I know it is a bit scary leaving your child in someone else's hands. When my girl was younger, I would go back to her class between services to let the new teachers know of her allergies. You just have to go the extra mile to be sure your kid is safe. It is very tiring to repeat the same spiel over and over, but that is the norm for a family affected by food allergies.

Another thing I do is to send her own snack with her when I know there will be a special snack. Otherwise, lately, I just don't send one. Her teachers have gotten used to her allergy needs and they normally have something she can eat or else they don't do a snack. The older she gets, the easier it gets food wise. Emotionally, though, it is getting harder. We had another discussion tonight about why God has allowed her to have food allergies. It isn't easy. It's a very difficult thing to live with, but God knows all about it and we just have to trust that His way is best.

If you have any specific questions related to this topic, feel free to email me or ask it in the comment section. I want to help you in any way that I can.

Easy Apple Dumplings {Dairy-Free, Egg-Free}

2012-01-18T08:39:00.000-05:00

I came across a recipe for these delicious apple dumplings a few months ago here and kept thinking about making them, but put it off....until yesterday. Don't let it fool you. Just because it has apples in it doesn't mean it's healthy - but it is SO YUMMY! I tweaked the recipe a little bit to make it less sugary and also make it allergy-friendly. So, here it is!

Easy Apple Dumplings {Dairy-Free, Egg-Free}

1 can refrigerated Pillsbury Crescent Rolls
1 apple, washed and cut into 8 slices {skin still on}
1/4 cup Smart Balance Light (melted)
1/4 cup brown sugar
cinnamon

Preheat oven to 350. Roll out crescent roll dough. Wrap each apple slice in one triangle of dough. Place in a greased pan. Sprinkle cinnamon on top of all the 'dumplings'. Mix melted Smart Balance Light and brown sugar together. Pour over each dumpling. Bake for 25 minutes. Serve warm alone or with Tofutti brand {dairy-free} Vanilla Ice Cream. YUM! (You can double, triple, etc. this recipe to accommodate your needs.)

Allergy-Friendly Restaurants

2012-01-16T15:36:00.000-05:00

We all know that eating out with food allergies is not exactly a care-free event, and in some cases it is impossible. However, in my quest to help my girl live a more 'normal' life, I have found that more often than not restaurants will have either an allergy menu or at least provide a list of ingredients to help you make wise and safe choices. I prefer an ingredient list over an allergy menu because I want to see for myself what ingredients are in certain items. For tips on eating out with food allergies, read this post. Below is a list of restaurants that we eat at or have come across with an allergy-friendly menu. Keep in mind that this list is a work in progress and will be added to as necessary. You can find this list in the sidebar on the right under 'Pages' and 'Allergy-Friendly Restaurants'.

Check out these restaurants for their allergy menus and/or ingredient lists:

Fatz Cafe - located in SC, NC, TN, GA and VA. This is one of the restaurants I've had the best experience with. We took the allergy menu with us to the restaurant and showed the waitress what we wanted to order for our daughter. She took it to the manager who came out to our table to find out himself exactly what her allergies were and assured us that her food would be cooked on a separate surface from all the other foods being cooked. They get an A+ in my book!
Chili's - Click their link to find their allergy menu information. Great resource! We've never had a bad experience there, so we continue to go back.
Red Robin - I haven't tried this restaurant in the allergy realm of things, but their website does list a menu for the wheat/gluten allergy or you can email them to find out about other specific allergy lists in their menu. Check it out!
Chuck E. Cheese - Click on this link to find info about allergens in their foods. If you don't find what you're looking for, they invite you to email them and they will get back with you.
Taco Bell - Click this link for a list of all the menu items and what allergens, if any, they contain. Great resource!
McDonald's - Click this link for a list of all menu items and their ingredients. If you have a milk allergy - CHECK OUT THE FRENCH FRY INGREDIENTS! In the U.S., the fries contain milk. In Canada, they do not contain milk.
On The Border - Click the link for the allergy menus for this restaurant. If you'll notice near the top of each menu, it gives a date that you can expect the menus to be accurate until. So, be sure your allergy menu is up-to-date when you order off of it. If the date has expired, I would definitely have the waiter double check the ingredients.
Rita's Italian Ice - Yes! They have an allergy menu! Check them out!
Salsarita's - Allergy Menu now available!! One of my favorite places to eat! **Just be sure the preparer of your food puts new gloves on before touching your food. Cross-contamination is also very dangerous for some of us!
P.F. Chang's China Bistro - They have only a vegetarian or gluten-free menu in addition to their normal menu, but they do not list ingredients.
Longhorn Steakhouse - Offers a gluten-free menu.
O'Charley's - Offers a list of common allergens and lists all the foods on their menu that contain those allergens! Great resource!
Chick-fil-a - They have a list of their products naming the allergen/s in each food on their menu. Click the link to read their allergy statemtent. *Be advised that they do use peanut oil, but it has been noted that peanut oil does not necessarily cause an allergic reaction in individuals with a peanut allergy.* I haven't personally put this to the test because my daughter can't eat anything there due to other allergies.
Johnny Rockets - Click the name to find a list of all the ingredients in each menu item along with each common allergen listed in bold at the end of each item. Very helpful!!
The Lady & Sons Restaurant - Savannah, GA - This is an allergy statement from this restaurant. Everything is fried in peanut oil. There is not a list of menu items and the allergies they may contain, so eat at your own risk. Their statement is to talk to your server about any allergies you may have.
Outback Steakhouse - This is a link to their statement on allergens. Specifically peanuts, dairy and gluten.
SteaknShake - This is a link to their allergy statement and ingredient list for each item on the menu. Great resource!

Bite-Size Banana Pie {Dairy-Free, Egg-Free, Nut-Free}

2012-01-12T15:47:00.000-05:00

One way to make homework seem a little less daunting after school, is to have a spontaneous, fun after-school snack. It's amazing the power food has over us. I try to give my kids fruit most of the time for snacks, and it usually works, but they can get a little tired of plain fruit so every once in awhile I add some variety. If you are not allergic to wheat or soy, Keebler Ready Crust Mini Graham Cracker Crusts are perfect to keep on hand. You can fill them with pudding, fruit, jello, etc. and the kids love them! Today I made these...

Bite-Size Banana Pie {Dairy-Free, Egg-Free, Nut-Free}

Keebler Ready Crust Mini Graham Cracker Crusts
Bananas
Hershey's Chocolate Syrup {the regular one is dairy-free, nut-free}
Colorful Sprinkles
Dairy-Free Whipped Topping {optional}

Fill each crust with sliced bananas, drizzle chocolate syrup over them, top with whipped cream and/or sprinkles. I didn't have coconut milk on hand so I couldn't make my dairy-free whipped topping today, but click for the recipe. Serve immediately!

My kids loved these and it made this cloudy day seem so much more exciting! {Nevermind the fact that they are excited to get to see their Grammy & Papa tomorrow - I'm sure that has nothing to do with their excitement. yeah, right.}

Coconut Oil: The Good Saturated Fat

2012-01-10T13:21:00.000-05:00

I have long been searching for a good coconut oil to use that hasn't been processed around peanuts. I finally found one thanks to Surviving the Stores who posted this deal last week for a great deal on organic extra virgin coconut oil. Nutiva brand has not been processed around peanuts, unlike most other coconut oils that I have come across in the grocery stores. I am really looking forward to using this and seeing some lasting benefits.

The jar of coconut oil from Nutiva states: 'Coconut is one of the world's most nourishing foods.' Nutiva's brand is:
* Cold-Pressed & Pure White: Not refined, deodorized or bleached!
* Organic: Made without pesticides, GMO's, or hexane.
* Versatile: Ideal as a high-heat cooking oil (up to 350 degrees), as a nutritious substitute in baking, and as a "better-than-butter" replacement on bread, vegetables, or popcorn. Also, a luscious oil for skin care, hair care, and massage.

Dr. Mercola has a few things to say about coconut oil here. A few of the benefits he listed stood out to me:
* Improves heart health
* Boosts your thyroid
* Increases metabolism
* Promotes a lean body and weight loss, if needed
* Supports your immune system

Go get yours today!

*Nutiva did not ask me to promote them, nor did I receive compensation for blogging about them. I simply wanted to make you aware of this coconut oil that has NOT been processed around peanuts.*

The Great Panini {Dairy-Free, Egg-Free}

2012-01-07T19:48:00.000-05:00

I'm pretty sure I fooled some people last year into thinking I was a really good girl because I got some great stuff for Christmas this year! One thing I got was a panini press from my sister and bro-in-law. I've had my eye on these for awhile, but never had bought one and this was my lucky year! So, Hubs and I have been experimenting with our favorite food combinations and I thought I'd share a couple with you.

Ham & Cheese Panini {Dairy-Free, Egg-Free}

Bread of your choice {Preferably thick bread, but sandwich bread works.}
Sliced ham of your choice
1/4 c Tofutti Cream Cheese, softened {this is Dairy-Free}
1-2 Green Onions, chopped
2 T Worcestershire Sauce
Garlic Powder {optional}

Heat up your panini press according to manufacturer's instructions.
Mix together Tofutti Cream Cheese, onions, worcestershire sauce and garlic powder.
Spread Smart Balance Light {Dairy-Free} on the bottom slice of bread. {If you are not allergic to eggs, use Mayo - it browns very nice!} Place on the panini.
Spread cream cheese mixture on top of the bread, add ham slices.
Spread cream cheese mixture onto bottom of the top piece of bread and place cheese side down on the ham.
Spread Smart Balance Light on the top of the top piece of bread and close panini press.
Heat until bread is golden brown.
Serve hot!

Buffalo Chicken Panini {Egg-Free}

Bread of your choice {Egg-Free}
Grilled Chicken, sliced thin
1/4 c Blue Cheese Dressing
3 T Frank's Red Hot Sauce
Blue Cheese Crumbles
Pepper Jack Cheese Slices

Heat up panini press. Mix together 1/4 cup Blue Cheese Dressing and 3 T Frank's Red Hot Sauce. Set aside. Spread Smart Balance Light {Dairy-Free} on bottom of bottom slice of bread. Place on panini press. Spread Hot Sauce mixture on top of that piece of bread. Place a slice of pepper jack cheese, then 4 thin slices of grilled chicken. Add blue cheese crumbles. Place another slice of pepper jack cheese on top of that. Then, spread hot sauce mixture on the bottom of the top slice of bread. Place face down on top of cheese. Spread Smart Balace Light on the top of the top piece and close panini press. Grill until golden brown and cheese is melted.
Serve Hot!

BBQ Popcorn {Dairy-Free} Taking Movie Night to a Whole New Level

2012-01-06T13:10:00.000-05:00

One thing I love about popcorn is that it is so versatile! It's a great snack to eat instead of chips and it's a whole grain, so it's healthy {minus all the dripping butter}. I posted awhile back about taking popcorn to the next stage - stepping outside the 'movie theater' popcorn box, so to speak - and showed you how to make Pizza Popcorn. That was yummy! Today I made some of this:

BBQ Popcorn {Dairy-Free}

1/2 cup popcorn kernels
Spray Crisco or Pam
BBQ Seasoning {I used Paula Deen's}
Black Pepper

Pop the pocorn according to package directions. I used an air popper so no oil was used during preparation. Once popped, spray a light dusting of Crisco or Pam on the top layer and sprinkle some BBQ seasoning on top. With a large spoon or your hands, mix the popcorn up and repeat the spray & sprinkle steps. Mix again and sprinkle more if needed. Finally, sprinkle a bit of black pepper on the very top. Spoon into bowls and enjoy!

Healthy Living 2012

2012-01-04T13:59:00.000-05:00

No, this isn't my new year's resolution. I'm just trying to rethink how my family eats. I need to eat healthier and kick the soda habit...yes, I love Coca Cola. And sweet tea. And it doesn't help that Sonic Happy Hour is right after school gets out and I have to drive past it to get home. But anyway, this isn't just about soda and sweet tea. I think it's all great in moderation, but this is more about changing my family's daily sugar habits. My kids eat pretty healthy already {I don't buy juice, etc. - they drink water.} and they love fruit. So, it makes my life as Mom easier. But, if you're an adult and wanting to eat healthier, I may post some of my daily menus here in the coming days.

Today's Menu:
Breakfast:
1 serving Uncle Sam's High Fiber Cereal {contains wheat}
1 cup unsweetened almond milk
1 serving strawberries
2 pieces turkey bacon
Hot tea with Raw Stevia

Mid-Morning Snack:
1/2 cup plain, low-fat yogurt {or coconut milk yogurt} mixed with 2T sugar free blackberry jam

Lunch:
Black Bean Chili
{1 can black beans, 1 can HOT Rotel - Heat together in a saucepan until beans are tender. Serve with Tofutti brand sour cream and other veggies you might like in your chili.}

Afternoon Snack:
1 whole apple

Dinner:
Grilled Chicken
Green Salad with lots of raw veggies
Balsamic Vinagrette {balsamic vinegar and olive oil mixed together with garlic salt, onion powder}
Roasted Asparagus {Lay asparagaus on pan, drizzle with olive oil and salt and pepper; Bake at 400 for 8-10 min}
Serving of fruit for the kids

Potato Pancakes {Egg-free, Dairy-free}

2012-01-02T20:06:00.000-05:00

Who doesn't love mashed potatoes? Well, if you are with me on the I {heart} mashed potatoes! bandwagon, you will love potato pancakes. My family reminded me of these at Christmas when we were sitting around the dinner table staring at a bowl of half-eaten creamy mashed potatoes. I'm pretty sure my brother-in-law had never heard of potato pancakes before or had never had any, so that night when the leftovers made their appearance, he made some. I got to taste it and it was pretty good! Brought back lots of memories - like the time my grandparents were staying with my siblings and I and my Mamaw made these for dinner {some with onion, some without}. My brother thought he'd be funny and placed one of the onion ones on the non-onion plate where my sister would be sure to grab. Sure enough, she took that one and it only took one bite for her to know somebody was up to no good. We all laughed, but my sister got the last laugh when my papaw made my brother take the one he tried to get my sister to eat and made him eat the whole entire thing. That is one memory we will never forget.

So, all that to say - You need to try these!!

Potato Pancakes {Dairy-free, Egg-free}

{Serves 2} Recipe can be doubled, tripled, etc.

2 cups mashed potatoes
1 1/2 tsp Ener-G Egg Replacer mixed with 1 Tbsp. water
1/4 cup flour
chopped onion or minced onion, optional
oil or Crisco for frying

Mix ingredients together until completely combined. {You want the consistency to be a little thicker than a normal pancake batter, so add a bit of almond milk if needed to achieve desired consistency.} Heat oil or Crisco in skillet until hot. Add a spoonfuls of potato mixture to hot pan, leaving space in between each pancake. Flip pancake when edges start to brown. Set on paper towel to drain oil. Serve hot with a dallop of Tofutti brand sour cream, if desired.

New Year's Eve Buffet {circa 1949} - Allergy Free

2011-12-31T20:30:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite finds ever at my local Goodwill was in 2000 when I came across a vintage cookbook - The Good Housekeeping Cook Book dated 1949. It had a nicely worn red cover with white lettering that caught my eye. It had me from Hello. I paid .50 for it and couldn't wait to get home to look through all the wonderful slightly yellowed pages including full color pages featuring the most retro illustrations! I love it. It's still my favorite cook book even though I know I'll never cook Jellied Tomato Soup or Rabbit Stew.
As I was thinking about what I wanted to do with my blog this year, I knew that I wanted to add many more recipes and meal ideas, above and beyond the sweets category. So, keep your eyes peeled for those! Another thing I thought would be fun is to go through this wonderful cook book and bring back some of the oldies, but goodies - this time in allergy-free form. So, that's what I'm going to do. And just for fun, I'm posting today the New Year's Eve Buffet from pg. 897. Enjoy!

The recipe that stands out from this menu and would be used in my house most often is the Toasted Garlic Buttered French Bread from pg. 476. I have modified it below to make it allergy-friendly:

Toasted Garlic Buttered French Bread {dairy-free, egg-free}
1/2 cup Smart Balance Light {dairy-free}
1 or 2 peeled cloves garlic
1 Pillsbury Refrigerated French Bread Loaf
1/4 tsp salt
Paprika

Soften 'butter'. Add garlic; mash slightly with fork. Let stand 30 min or longer. While that is going on, bake Pillsbury French Bread Loaf according to package directions. Remove garlic. Approx 5 min before baking is done, take the loaf out of oven and slash bread diagonally into thick slices, almost to bottom. Spread garlic butter generously between slices and over top half of loaf. Sprinkle with salt and paprika. Place back in oven for remainder of baking time. Let guests break off pieces. Makes 6-8 servings.

A Re-introduction...

2011-12-30T13:16:00.001-05:00

I've been blogging about food allergies for 3 years now. It's been a huge learning experience for me and my family. One of my daughters has allergies to milk, eggs and peanuts and this is the only life she has known. We discovered her allergy to milk at 8 months old when she had a severe allergic reaction to cow's milk and formula. We avoided it until her first birthday when she had another visible reaction to her birthday cake that did not contain milk. Turns out it was egg whites. So, we took her to an allergist and discovered she was severely allergic to cow's milk (goat's milk ended up giving her the same reaction), eggs and peanuts. We were told she would possibly outgrow one or more by her fifth birthday, but when we took her for a re-check at five years old, she still had all three allergies. The milk allergy appears to be non-life threatening now, but egg has gotten worse and peanut has stayed the same.

I blog in order to journal our lives that are so greatly affected by food allergies, but also to encourage those of you who are just finding out about food allergies and those of you who have been living this lifestyle for awhile. You will find lots of recipes that our family likes and tips/tricks that I use in the kitchen and out to eat.

I am moving my blog www.allergyfree.wordpress.com to this site because it is much easier to manage and the picture quality is better, in my opinion. So, feel free to go back to my wordpress blog to check out the archives. I have moved most of my posts here to this blog (which is why I have tons of posts dated December 30, 2011), and will have more added as time goes by. I have an 'Eating Out' page on my wordpress blog that may be of help to you. I add to that as I come across allergy-friendly restaurants.

Please subscribe to my posts by email or add me to your favorites to keep checking in. I'd love your feedback, as well.

Thanks for stopping by! The New Year will hopefully be full of new ideas and posts for this allergy blog!

Easy Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats {Dairy-free, Egg-free}

2011-12-30T13:01:00.001-05:00

I have come across several flavors of marshmallows this season and it has been fun making several different treats with them for the holidays! Flavored marshmallows open up a whole new world of sweets! Here's one my kids have been enjoying:

Easy Gingerbread Rice Krispie Treats {Dairy-free}

3T Smart Balance Light Buttery Spread {It's dairy-free!}

1 bag of gingerbread marshmallows {I get mine at Walmart}

6 cups Rice Krispies

Melt buttery spread in medium saucepan, stir in whole bag of gingerbread marshmallows. Stir continuously until melted. Stir in 6 cups of rice krispies making sure to mix well.

Pour into a greased 13x9 inch pan. Let sit until cooled. Cut into gingerbread man shapes! Enjoy!!

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And, did you read about the Stained Glass Marshmallow Roll I posted around Thanksgiving? This time I used the Peppermint Mallows by Jet-Puffed that I found at Walmart....Can't wait to try these!!

Sugar Cookie Icing {Dairy-free, Egg-free}

2011-12-30T12:59:00.001-05:00

I can't tell you how long I've looked for a perfect allergy-free sugar cookie icing. A lot of them have dairy in them and then I found one without dairy and realized I had no corn syrup. So after some research on substitutions, I came up with this icing. I will use it from now on! It's the perfect consistency and tastes yummy, too!

Sugar Cookie Icing {Dairy-free, Egg-free, Vegan}

2 1/2 cups powdered sugar

2 Tbsp water

1 Tbsp Smart Balance Light (or Earth Balance buttery spread - they are dairy free)

1 Tbsp Cream of Tartar (I may have used a heaping Tbsp just in case)

1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Food coloring, if desired

Combine all ingredients in a small bowl. Mix until powdered sugar is moistened. Beat at medium speed until smooth. Add additional tablespoons of water to reach desired consistency. Tint with food coloring if desired.

Perfect Cut-Out Sugar Cookies {Dairy-free, Egg-free}

2011-12-30T12:57:00.001-05:00

If you are looking for a perfect allergy-free sugar cookie, look no further! This is the best one I've made and I'm sure you will love it, too. I made these for the first time last year and my girl just loved them. I am busy baking today for all the parties my girl has and will be sharing several recipes with you. I hope you find them useful and yummy, too!

Cut-Out Sugar Cookies {dairy-free, egg-free, nut-free}

(Makes about 4 1/2 dozen cookies)

Ingredients

1 cup butter or margarine2 cups sugar1 Tbsp vanilla2 Tbsp cornstarch

5 cups flour (divided)

1 cup buttermilk or dairy-free milk alternative, soured with 1 tsp vinegar

2 tsp baking powder 1 tsp baking soda 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

Mix together butter or margarine, sugar and vanilla. Add cornstarch. Alternately add the buttermilk, 2 1/2 cups flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt. Stir in additional 2 1/2 cups flour.Chill well. (Approx. 3 hours)Roll out on a floured surface and cut out. Sprinkle tops with sugar (or colored sugar, sprinkles, etc).Bake at 350 °F for 8-10 min depending on size.

This is what the dough looks like when it's been chilled long enough. It is very easy to form and not very sticky.

When baked for 8-10 minutes the cookies turn out perfect! They are not even brown on the edges which means they are just firm enough and still soft on the inside.

Chocolate Donut Muffins {Dairy-free, Egg-free, Vegan, Nut-free}

2011-12-30T12:51:00.001-05:00

I've been busy baking today for my girl's Christmas parties this week. This one may be familiar to you because I posted it here awhile back. It is my go-to recipe when I need a donut for my girl. Tomorrow at school, her class is having donuts and chocolate milk while they watch The Polar Express so, of course, she needed a substitute. These turned out delicious and look so yummy, too! I can't wait for her to try one when she gets home from school.

You can get the recipe here. I changed one thing and it turned out to be a great change. *Let the donuts cool for several minutes before tossing them in the powdered sugar. If the donut is too warm when the sugar is on them, the sugar melts. These turned out perfect today! I think you'll like them.

A Lesson on Perspective

2011-12-30T12:49:00.001-05:00

Today was decorate-the-gingerbread-houses-at-school-day. I volunteered to help with this because my girl was just a bit nervous about knowing which ingredients she could/could not have and after I went to the classroom and the mess of icing and candy pieces began to escalate, I was so glad I had gone. My girl was so excited to be elbow deep in bright colored candies and I was glad I could be there to monitor the situation. Thankfully, the decorating went off without a hitch and all the kiddos had a blast. I enjoyed being there with those kids who are all so very different from each other, but wonderful and special in their own ways. (Even though, I might have been dreading the mess!!) When I picked up my girls from school this afternoon, C had her gingerbread house in tow and she was greatly looking forward to getting home and eating some of that house. It seemed she had forgotten all about our little discussion about how it was not something she could eat because of the icing that contains egg whites. So, when I gently reminded her of that, there was a major emotional breakdown. This is really the first time she's ever gotten so upset (outwardly) about her allergies. Mega tears were flowing in the backseat from the sheer disappointment of not being able to eat such a beautiful and visually appealing treat that she worked so hard on. I let her vent her frustration for a second and then asked her, "Does God make mistakes?" Of course, her answer was NO. And then I asked her, "Did he make a mistake by allowing you to have food allergies?" Her answer, at first, was yes and then we talked about how God cannot make a mistake - never has and never will. He allows everything in our lives for a reason....even things we don't think are right for us. Romans 8:28 says, "And we know that ALL THINGS work together for good to them that love God...according to His purpose." Even a 6 year old can begin to understand that God knows what's best for us and always has our best interest at heart. And while the tears were pouring and the sobbing was in full force, I sat there in the driver's seat praying she will one day outgrow these allergies, but also wondering what else I could say to help her put this in perspective. Then, I pulled off my exit and sat at a red light where homeless people are almost always standing begging for money or food and I could see just enough under the bridge to see others taking shelter there. I pointed them out to my children and showed them what they had never noticed before. There are real people all around us who have no food or home. When put in perspective, food allergies seem so much less of a burden. The fact is, the focus doesn't need to be on what we can't have, but what we already have that, quite frankly, we don't deserve. God has blessed us exceeding abundantly above all that we could ask for or imagine {Eph 3:20} and THAT is what we can be thankful for.

Don't Just Survive the Holidays {and Holiday Foods}...THRIVE!

2011-12-30T12:47:00.001-05:00

Christmas is rapidly approaching and with this time of year come lots of Christmas parties and get-togethers with the main attraction being FOOD! Just in the next 7 days, my girl has an event involving popcorn, two Christmas parties at church and school and the traditional (and somewhat dreadful) gingerbread house building at school. All of those things involve food and most of them are foods that are very risky to her health. At this point, I can do one of two things. 1) Avoid it altogether and have her feel isolated and feed her fear of being around those things or 2) Do everything in my power to know what foods will be at what event and make alternatives for her to bring with her so that she can participate like a normal child and teach her to thrive in her environment regardless of food allergies. I'm choosing to do the latter. Her whole life we have been striving to maintain a sense of normalcy for this girl and show her that while she does have potentially life-threatening food allergies, it is possible to be able to enjoy every event and situation involving food. Our 'normal' isn't the same as everyone else's 'normal', but we do our best to help her blend in and thrive. It's very important to us to teach her that while it is absolutely necessary for her to avoid certain foods, she can have just as much fun as everyone else and not be afraid.

So, here are some practical tips for surviving the wonderful holidays and all the food that comes with it!

1. MAKE A LIST AND CHECK IT TWICE. Compile a list of all the parties/events that your child will be a part of and make a detailed list of each menu. Mark the items that he/she can have and then make allergy-free substitutes for those items which he/she cannot have. If your child is old enough to understand, then go over the lists with him so he is aware of all the substitutes.

2. GIVE STUFF! Volunteer to bring items for school parties/church parties and sign up to bring items like cupcakes or cookies (or whatever your child cannot have) and bring an allergy-free type for the whole class. There are some things like graham crackers that my child can only eat certain brands of, so in that case, bring only that brand or ask the teacher if she can specifically request certain brands to be brought.

3. GIVE TIME! Volunteer to help at the parties so that you can monitor the food situation. My child is old enough to know certain things that she can/cannot have, but I know that she is much more comfortable to partake if I am there. When she doesn't know if an item is okay, she will just refrain from eating it. I know some kids may not have that kind of self control, but your child might.

4. HAVE A LITTLE CHAT! Communicate with the teacher(s) as the time draws near for the party/event to remind her of your child's specific needs. Send a note in on that day, as well, reminding her. You can also have your child wear allergy alert jewelry or a sticker/pin stating his/her allergies so that even volunteers can be on alert. My girl will be wearing her necklace on the days of her parties/events.

5. LAST BUT NOT LEAST! In case of gingerbread house building, find out the exact ingredients that will be there and deal with it appropriately. The 'glue' that my girl's teacher is using to stick the house together has meringue powder in it and that is an absolute no-no for my sweet girl. So, we are going to have her use gloves while putting these houses together. And then I have checked into all the ingredients and sent in some of the ones where my girl needs specific brands. After all that, we know of one ingredient that she cannot partake of and she is aware of it. So, she's feeling pretty excited about building herself a little gingerbread house with the rest of her class. And I have to say that this momma is at peace with it and looking forward to seeing what my artistic girl comes up with!

I'm planning to post a few Christmas recipes coming in the next few days, so stay tuned! And I have some plans in the works for the new year on this blog! Exciting days ahead!