Healthy Homes Recipe Vault

Pizza Pizza!

noreply@blogger.com (Stella) — Fri, 27 Aug 2010 13:00:00 +0000

Utensil: Electric Skillet, Food Cutter

Ingredients:

Pizza dough
1 bell pepper
½ sweet onion
Pizza sauce (store bought or create your own)
pepperoni slices
2 cups grated mozzarella cheese

Directions
Spray electric skillet with non stick spray. Spread pizza dough on bottom of skillet; shape to fit pan.
Spread tomato sauce, cheese, pepperoni slices and toppings. Add one bell pepper(diced) and ½-1 sweet onion (diced).
Place lid on electric skillet all the way. Turn to 325 degrees for 10 minutes (exactly).
Let stand 12-15 minutes. (Do not lift the lid!)

Want to learn how to cook healthy and fast? Visit Healthy Homes @ www.YourHealthyHome.net

For Darn Good Seasoning visit: www.DarnGoodSeasoning.com

Citrus Tilapia

noreply@blogger.com (Stella) — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 13:00:00 +0000

UTENSILS: zester, Electric Skillet

INGREDIENTS:

2 Limes

2 Lemons

1 Orange

4-6 Tilapia Filets

Darn Good Seasoning

INSTRUCTIONS:
Lay the fish out on a cookie sheet or plastic cutting board. Season and flip. Zest the lime, lemon, and orange over the fish; cut the citrus in half and squeeze the lemon, lime, and half the orange over the fish, discarding any seeds. Season and set aside.

Want to learn how to cook healthy and fast? Visit Healthy Homes @ www.YourHealthyHome.net

For Darn Good Seasoning visit: www.DarnGoodSeasoning.com

Barbecued Skillet Pork Chops

noreply@blogger.com (Stella) — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 13:00:00 +0000

Utensils: Electric Skillet or Large Skillet

4-6 pork chops (2 lbs.), trimmed of fat
1-2 sm. cloves garlic, minced
1/3 c. diced celery
1/2 c. sliced mushrooms
2 tbsp. brown sugar
2 tbsp. lemon juice
2 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
1/2 tsp. dry mustard
1 tsp. Darn Good Seasoning
1 (16 oz.) can tomato sauce
1/2 lb. flat noodles

In a large electric skillet, brown chops with garlic over medium heat or 350 degrees for electric skillet. Sprinkle vegetables and seasonings over pork chops and pour tomato sauce over all. Cover skillet and simmer over low heat until chops are tender. Serve over noodles. Make an extra 1/2 recipe for extra sauce.

Want to learn how to cook healthy and fast? Visit Healthy Homes @ www.YourHealthyHome.net

For Darn Good Seasoning visit: www.DarnGoodSeasoning.com

Mexican Casserole

noreply@blogger.com (Stella) — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 13:00:00 +0000

UTENSILS: Large Skillet and Mixing Bowl (may use JUMBO or ELECTRIC – double recipe)

INGREDIENTS:

2 lbs Ground Beef OR Chicken
2 TBSP Chopped Fresh Cilantro
Zest and Juice of one lime
1 TBSP Garlic
Darn Good Seasoning
1 Pkg Taco Rice (Lipton Rice Sides)
28 oz. Jar Picante Sauce
2 Cans Black Beans
12 Oz Colby Jack Cheese

COOKING INSTRUCTIONS:
GROUND MEAT:
Heat the skillet on 350. Combine the ground meat, cilantro, garlic, lime juice, and lime zest. Saute until meat is almost cooked through; discard any grease.

CASSEROLE:
Combine the Picante Sauce and Rice in a mixing bowl. Layer ingredients in this order: beef, rice mixture, beans, cheese. Cover and cook on 350. When water begins to bubble around the edges, reduce to simmer and allow to cook for 10 more minutes. Unplug and allow to stand covered for 10 minutes.

Serve with sour cream.

May be served as a casserole, tortilla chip dip, or as a tortilla wrap

Want to learn how to cook healthy and fast? Visit Healthy Homes @ www.YourHealthyHome.net

For Darn Good Seasoning visit: www.DarnGoodSeasoning.com

3 Vegetables That Fight Abdominal Fat

noreply@blogger.com (Stella) — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 14:00:00 +0000

A unique way that a few specific vegetables can actually stimulate the burning of abdominal fat...

article by Mike Geary, Certified Personal Trainer, Certified Nutrition Specialist
Author -- The Truth about Six Pack Abs

I bet you didn't know that there is a specific class of vegetables that contain very specific phytonutrients that actually help to fight against stubborn belly fat.

Let me explain what these unique vegetables are and why they help to burn stomach fat...

Chemicals that force your body to hold onto belly fat

Something you may have never heard about is that certain chemicals in our food supply and our environment, such as pesticides, herbicides, and certain petrochemicals from air and water pollution, household cleaners, cosmetics, etc can react with your body and make your body store excess abdominal fat.

These chemicals are known as xenoestrogens.

Xenoestrogens are chemicals that you are exposed to (and are hard to avoid in the modern world) that have an estrogenic effect in your body. Excess exposure to these can cause hormone balance disruptions for both men and women. So these can wreak havoc in the body for both guys and gals.

These estrogenic chemicals that we are exposed to on a daily basis can stimulate your body to store belly fat, along with many other problems (including cancer risks in the long term).

So here's where this specific class of vegetables comes in handy...

One of those cool tricks that I teach my clients that hire me for nutritional counseling is the use of cruciferous vegetables to help fight against stomach fat.

Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, kale, cabbage, etc. contain very specific and unique phytonutrients such as indole-3-carbinol (I3C) that help to fight against these estrogenic compounds...

And by fighting against these belly fat stimulating estrogenic chemicals, this is just 1 more step in helping you to win the battle against abdominal fat!

So there you go... just another excuse to do what mom always told you and eat more broccoli!

I've really learned to like brussells sprouts in the last year too... Melt a little grass-fed cheese on them and some garlic and they're great!

Want to learn how to cook healthy and fast? Visit Healthy Homes @ www.YourHealthyHome.net

For Darn Good Seasoning visit: www.DarnGoodSeasoning.com

Creole Chicken and Rice

noreply@blogger.com (Stella) — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 13:00:00 +0000

Utensil: Large skillet

Ingredients:

* 2 links (6 oz) andouille or other smoked sausage, sliced
* 1 onion, quartered and sliced
* 2 small bell peppers, sliced
* 8 oz chicken tenders, cut up
* 2 packets (6.4 oz each) Cajun Sides Red Beans & Rice
* 4 cups water
* 3 scallions, sliced

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausage and onion; cover and cook 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sausage is lightly browned. Add peppers; sauté 2 minutes. Add chicken; sauté 1 minute. Stir in rice mixes and water; bring to a boil. Cover and cook 7 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.Remove from heat; stir in scallions. Serve with your favorite hot sauce.

Want to learn how to cook healthy and fast? Visit Healthy Homes @ www.YourHealthyHome.net

For Darn Good Seasoning visit: www.DarnGoodSeasoning.com

5 Diet-Friendly Frozen Treats

noreply@blogger.com (Stella) — Sun, 22 Aug 2010 14:00:00 +0000

These simple, "homemade" frozen treats will cool you off without killing your diet.

You can find plenty of diet-wise frozen fruit pops and other frozen desserts at the supermarket that contain no more than 100 calories per serving. With few exceptions, however, these goodies get their low-cal count from artificial sweeteners and fats. So, while commercial brands are good in a pinch, there's really nothing like the taste of frozen treats you make yourself, starting with fresh ingredients, especially when they're this easy to prepare.

Frozen Iced Tea Cubes. Take refreshment a step further by freezing iced black, green or herbal tea in ice cube trays. Tea itself contains no calories and neither does any lemon juice you add for flavoring. The less sugar or honey you add to sweeten, the fewer calories you'll have in your iced treat and the more you can enjoy on a hot day. Once they are partially frozen, you can insert a popsicle stick or lollipop stick into the center of the cube (both types of sticks are available in cook shops and in the cooking/baking department of many large supermarkets). Or simply pop the frozen cubes out into a cup.

Watermelon Slushie. Freeze chunks of seedless watermelon in a covered, freezable food storage container. Whenever you want a frosty treat, throw a few chunks in a blender or food processor and whirl with an on/off motion until you have a frozen slush. If you like, add a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice. Be careful not to over-blend, or you'll end up with cold watermelon soup (also a tasty treat but probably not what you were expecting)!

Frozen Bananas. When it comes to homemade, it doesn't get any easier than this. Peel a small, ripe banana and sprinkle with lemon juice to prevent browing. Wrap it in plastic wrap, aluminum foil or freezer wrap, and pop in the freezer for several hours or until solid. Once frozen, or at least semi-frozen, bananas have the consistency of ice cream. If you like nuts, roll and press your banana in just a dusting of very finely chopped almonds or walnuts before wrapping and freezing. For an easy-grab pop, pop, insert a flat popsicle stick into one end before freezing.

Frozen Grapes. Freeze individual grapes on a tray. When frozen, pour the grapes into a freezer-safe food storage bag or container. Frozen grapes make great diet food because they are small treats that you won't gobble up as quickly as fresh grapes. They also seem like more of a treat than fresh grapes because, like bananas, they take on a creamier consistency when frozen.

Raspberry Semifreddo. In Italian, semifreddo means "half cold," and is used to describe a variety of partially frozen (or partially thawed) desserts that include ice creams, cakes, custards and fruit mixtures. You can make a Line a (9 x 5-inch) loaf pan with aluminum foil so that the foil hangs over the long sides of the pan. In a mixing bowl, combine a large container (32 ounces) vanilla or honey flavored yogurt with 1 cup fresh raspberries (or any fresh cut-up fruit or berries). Spoon the mixture into the lined pan. Freeze at least overnight. To serve, transfer the semifreddo from the freezer to the refrigerator for 1 hour to thaw slightly, just until it is easy to slice but not yet thawed. Use the foil to remove the frozen loaf from the pan. Cut into thin slices to serve. You can cut the entire loaf and refreeze slices individually. Let the slices thaw for at least 20 minutes in the refrigerator to enjoy them semifreddo. Top with additional fresh fruit, if you like. A great variation: In a blender or food processer, combine the yogurt with a ripe banana until almost pureed, before mixing with berries and freezing.

Updated: August 12, 2010

Want to learn how to cook healthy and fast? Visit Healthy Homes @ www.YourHealthyHome.net

For Darn Good Seasoning visit: www.DarnGoodSeasoning.com

Garlic Shrimp and Chicken

noreply@blogger.com (Stella) — Sun, 22 Aug 2010 13:00:00 +0000

Utensils: Large skillet

Ingredients:

* 2 to 3 boneless chicken breast halves or tenders, about 1 pound
* 1 pound large shrimp
* 6 tablespoons butter
* 1/4 cup olive oil
* 4 medium cloves garlic, smashed and minced
* 1 tablespoon fresh chopped basil, or 1 teaspoon dried leaf basil
* 1 tablespoon fresh chopped parsley, or 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 tsp Darn Good Seasoning

Lightly pound chicken between sheets of plastic wrap to an even thickness. Cut in strips about 1-inch wide. In large skillet, melt the butter with olive oil. Add garlic, basil, parsley, salt, and seasoning. Heat over medium low heat and add the chicken and shrimp. Cook the shrimp and chicken mixture, stirring, for about 10 to 15 minutes, until cooked through. If shrimp are small, add a few minutes after adding chicken. Serve with hot cooked pasta. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, if desired.

Want to learn how to cook healthy and fast? Visit Healthy Homes @ www.YourHealthyHome.net

For Darn Good Seasoning visit: www.DarnGoodSeasoning.com

What are the Health Benefits of Spicy Foods?

noreply@blogger.com (Stella) — Sat, 21 Aug 2010 14:00:00 +0000

Fans of spicy foods have long been claiming that eating hot foods has some health benefits, and numerous studies seem to suggest that some of these claims may be accurate. The health benefits of spicy foods have been a topic of numerous studies of populations which eat spicy foods, and the results of studies of specific components of hot foods, most notably capsaicin, have been applied to spicy foods in general. However, it is important to remember that no food is a magic bullet, and that eating a balanced, healthy diet is extremely important.

Most of the health benefits of spicy foods appear to center around capsaicin, the ingredient which makes chili peppers hot. Other ingredients like turmeric, coriander, and mustard seeds which appear in spicy foods in some regions of the world may also confer additional health benefits. One of the most widely accepted claims is that eating spicy foods promotes sweating, opens the sinuses, and encourages expectoration, making spicy foods a good thing to eat if someone has a cold. The hot temperature of spicy foods can also promote an opening of the sinuses and bronchial tubes.

Some studies have suggested that the health benefits of spicy foods may be especially important for the brain. People who eat a lot of spicy food appear to be at a decreased risk of developing degenerative brain and nervous system conditions, and these foods may also help with depression and migraines. Eating spicy foods also increases the metabolism, encouraging people to process food more quickly, leading some researchers to suggest that spicy foods may help with weight loss.

Capsaicin is sometimes used topically in pain management, and it appears to be beneficial for pain and inflammation when ingested internally, adding to the list of health benefits of spicy foods. Spicy foods also promote good circulation, and they appear to lower blood pressure, which reduces strain on the heart. While eating spicy foods will certainly not replace blood pressure medications, it could be a useful supplement to blood pressure management.

Historically, some people have believed that spicy foods are unhealthy, contributing to the development of ulcers in the gastrointestinal tract. In fact, ulcers appear to be caused by bacteria, and although some spicy and acidic foods may irritate ulcers, they are certainly not the root cause. While some people are extremely sensitive to heat, experiencing discomfort if they eat spicy foods, spicy foods do not appear to be inherently unhealthy.

Want to learn how to cook healthy and fast? Visit Healthy Homes @ www.YourHealthyHome.net

For Darn Good Seasoning visit: www.DarnGoodSeasoning.com

Thai Chicken Stir Fry

noreply@blogger.com (Stella) — Sat, 21 Aug 2010 13:00:00 +0000

Utensils: wok or large skillet; medium bowl

Ingredients:

1 tsp. Sesame Oil
1 lb. Boneless skinless chicken breast cut in strips
2 tsp. finely grated fresh ginger root
1 fresh garlic clove minced
¼ tsp. dried crushed chillies
1 tsp. Chinese 5 Spice
1/2 tsp. Darn Good Seasoning
8 Fresh button mushrooms thinly sliced
2 Tbsp. cashews
1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
1 small onion cut in wedges
3-4 cups Bok Choy, sliced
1 tsp. Sesame seeds

Sauce:

¼ cup brown sugar
1 Tbsp. cornstarch
¼ cup cold water
2 Tbsp. red wine vinegar
2 Tbsp. lemon juice
1 Tbsp. Soy sauce

Directions

1. Combine the last 6 ingredients for the Sauce in a small bowl and set a side.
2. Combine sesame oil, chicken, ginger, garlic, Chinese 5 spice, Darn Good Seasoning and chilies and marinate for 15 minutes.
3. Heat Wok or Skillet on medium-high. Fry the chicken for about 5 minutes until it begins to brown.
4. Add carrot, onion, bok Choy, mushrooms and stir-fry for another 5 minutes.
5. Push the mixture up the side of the Wok making a well in the center. Add the Sauce and fold the mixture into the sauce. Cover with lid and cook on medium, cook on low for about 3-5 minutes or until mixture has thickened. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and cashews. Serve over rice.

Want to learn how to cook healthy and fast? Visit Healthy Homes @ www.YourHealthyHome.net

For Darn Good Seasoning visit: www.DarnGoodSeasoning.com

Enzyme Supplements: Who Needs Them Most?

noreply@blogger.com (Stella) — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 14:00:00 +0000

Enzyme supplements sold in health food stores and through online retailers claim to help ease digestion and fight disease. Here's what you need to know.

In the body, the pancreas produces digestive enzymes that break down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates from food into smaller parts that can be absorbed into the bloodstream. Protease is the enzyme that breaks protein down into individual amino acids. Lipase breaks down lipids, or fats, into different types of fatty acids. Amylase breaks down carbohydrates into simple sugars that are further broken down into glucose. Other digestive enzymes are produced both in the pancreas and in other parts of the body.

A person who develops pancreatic disease, such as chronic pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer, cannot produce a sufficient amount of enzymes to ensure the breakdown of major nutrients, particularly fats. Since the liver and gastrointestinal tract produce enzymes and other substances necessary for normal pancreatic enzyme activity, any disease in these organs can also interfere with enzyme activity. When enzyme production or activity is blocked, serious side effects of occur due to poor digestion of foods and absorption of nutrients. These side effects include severe pain, diarrhea and malnutrition.

Health food stores, some pharmacies and online retailers sell enzyme supplements that purportedly help aid digestion. Some are derived from foods that contain their own natural enzymes, such as papain, which comes from papaya and bromelein, from pineapple. Others are derived from animal sources. The problem with all enzymes made outside of the human body, whether you get them from supplements or directly from foods, is that they are proteins. When consumed, they are digested by gastric acid in the stomach, just like any other protein. The digestive process renders the proteins inactive, so they cannot help digest other foods.

For serious medical disorders that prevent digestive enzymes from doing their jobs, doctors prescribe specially formulated enzyme supplements that can help with the digestive process without being digested themselves. With the exception of lactase, an enzyme that helps digest lactose, or milk sugar, and is useful for people with lactose intolerance who want to drink milk and eat dairy products, there appears to be no reason for anyone to take enzyme supplements that are available over the counter.

Three other enzymes produced by the body-superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase-act as antioxidants, which means they attack substances known as free radicals that oxidize, or damage, cells throughout the body. Since damaged body cells lead to disease, antioxidants are very important to health. Antioxidant enzymes are also sold in the form of dietary supplements. Like digestive enzymes, however, these supplements are digested in the stomach and intestine, and broken down into smaller parts so they can be absorped into the body. Once they are broken down into smaller parts, the enzymes have no antioxidant power so, for all intents and purposes, these supplements are useless.

Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. "Pancreatic and Biliary Diseases." 2010. Web. 21 July 2010.

Food and Drug Administration. "Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency Drug Products." Federal Register: April 28, 2004. Vol. 69; No. 82; 23409-23414

Keith, Robert E., "Antioxidants and Health." Auburn University/Alabama Cooperative Extension. Pub. HE-0778. Oct 1999. Web. 21 July 2010.

Want to learn how to cook healthy and fast? Visit Healthy Homes @ www.YourHealthyHome.net

For Darn Good Seasoning visit: www.DarnGoodSeasoning.com

Turkey Steaks and Potatoes

noreply@blogger.com (Stella) — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 13:00:00 +0000

Utensils: large skillet; food cutter (#2 cone)

1 pound ground turkey
1/2 cup seasoned bread crumbs
1 tbsp. dried minced onions
1 tbsp. dried minced garlic
1 tbsp. Darn Good Seasoning1/2 onion, sliced
1/2 cup beef broth
3 medium potatoes

Preheat large skillet to medium heat. Soak minced onion and minced garlic in a small bowl in a little water for about 5 minutes, drain. In a medium bowl, combine turkey, Darn Good, minced onions, minced garlic and bread crumbs. Form patties to desired size for salsbury type steaks. Place in skillet and cover almost completely (leave a small crack to allow oxygen into pan). Cook for 5 minutes. Flip, add sliced onions and broth. Cover and open whistle. Meanwhile, shred potatoes on food cutter with the #2 cone. When whistle sounds, add potaotes to skillet and re cover. Leave whistle open and allow to sound again. After whistle sounds, close it and reduce heat to low. Simmer for about 15 minutes or until potatoes are desired tenderness.

Want to learn how to cook healthy and fast? Visit Healthy Homes @ www.YourHealthyHome.net

For Darn Good Seasoning visit: www.DarnGoodSeasoning.com

Cheesy Beef and Potato Skillet

noreply@blogger.com (Stella) — Thu, 19 Aug 2010 13:00:00 +0000

Utensils: electric skillet; jr. colander; 3 quart saucepan

Ingredients:

1 lb. ground beef

1 med. onion, chopped

1 (11 oz.) can cheddar cheese soup

1/3 c. water

1 (16 oz.) can whole potatoes, drained & sliced/ or one package of linguine noodles cooked and drained

1 tsp. Darn Good Seasoning

Directions:

Add a couple inches of water to 3 qt. Place seasoned ground beef into colander and put on top of 3 quart. Cook on medium heat until brown. Pour ground beef into preheated skillet (350 degrees). Stir to separate meat. Stir in soup, water; add potatoes or noodles. Cook on medium heat until everything is heated -- stirring often.

Want to learn how to cook healthy and fast? Visit Healthy Homes @ www.YourHealthyHome.net

For Darn Good Seasoning visit: www.DarnGoodSeasoning.com

Apple Nutrition Facts

noreply@blogger.com (Stella) — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 14:00:00 +0000

In Greek mythology, apples were associated with the healing god Apollo, perhaps the source for the modern-day adage that an apple a day keeps the doctor away. In medieval times, physicians were taught that cooked apples could relieve disturbances of the bowels, lungs and nervous system. The custom of serving fresh fruit, particularly apples, at the end of a meal arose because of the favorable effects on digestion attributed to them by the physicians Hippocrates and Galen. Plus apple juice was one of the earliest prescribed antidepressants.

Apples are not bursting with vitamins and minerals like other fruits, though they do provide a bit of vitamin C and potassium. However, without a doubt apples are amazing for controlling blood sugar, says Dr. Barry Sears in his book The Top 100 Zone Foods. “Apples are a good source of soluble fiber, especially pectin, which helps control insulin levels by slowing the release of sugar into your bloodstream. Pectin also helps reduce cholesterol levels by lowering insulin secretion.”

We now also know that apples fairly shine in antioxidant phytochemicals; the principal ones identified so far are phenolics and the flavonoid quercetin.

Research suggests that natural antioxidants like these could be even more effective than vitamin supplements. Comell University researchers, for example, have found that the amount of fresh apple extract from a medium apple with skin provides the antioxidant activity equal to 1,500 milligrams of vitamin C. Using colon cancer cells treated with apple extract, the scientists found that cell proliferation was inhibited in vitro. The researchers also tested the apple extract against human liver cancer cells and again found inhibition of the growth of those cells.

People who eat lots of apples may have lower rates of lung cancer, judging by a study done in Finland. The study, published August 1, 1997, in the American Journal of Epidemiology, was focused on flavonoids. The study reviewed the diet of 9,959 Finns aged five to 99 years. Of those in the group who were cancer-free in 1965, those who ate the most flavonoid-rich foods — apples and other fruit, onions, juices, vegetables, and jams — had a 20 percent lower incidence of cancer through 1991. Quercetin, a flavonoid found mostly in apples, accounted for 95 percent of the flavonoids consumed by the study group.

To get the most benefit, don't peel your apples. Quercetin is found only in the skin.

Want to learn how to cook healthy and fast? Visit Healthy Homes @ www.YourHealthyHome.net

For Darn Good Seasoning visit: www.DarnGoodSeasoning.com

Chicken Burritos

noreply@blogger.com (Stella) — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 13:00:00 +0000

Utensils: large skillet; chef knife

2-3 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 package of taco seasoning
1 package of flour or wheat tortillas (burrito size)
1 small onion
1/2 shredded lettuce
1 small tomato, chopped
1 cup shredded Mexican cheese
1 cup salsa
sour cream (optional)
1 avacado, peeled and sliced

Preheat large skillet to medium heat. Put chicken in pan, cover, open whistle. When whistle sounds, add package of taco seasoning and onions. Cover and open whistle again. When whistle sounds for a second time, lower heat and allow mixture to simmer for about 10-15 minutes. Serve with remaining ingredients wrapped in tortilla. Great with salsa and sour cream on top.

May also serve with Mexican rice and re fried beans as a side.

Want to learn how to cook healthy and fast? Visit Healthy Homes @ www.YourHealthyHome.net

For Darn Good Seasoning visit: www.DarnGoodSeasoning.com

Dumplings

noreply@blogger.com (Stella) — Tue, 17 Aug 2010 13:00:00 +0000

Utensils
Wok or large skillet; food cutter
Ingredients:

1 pound lean ground beef

2 cups finely chopped cabbage (#5 blade)

2 tablespoons cornstarch

2 tablespoons finely chopped green onion

2 teaspoons finely minced ginger (#1 blade)

1 egg white

1 tablespoon fish sauce

1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 1/2 teaspoonsDarn Good Seasoning

1 package (14 ounces) dumpling or pot sticker (gyoza) wrappers (77 wraps)

For Sauce:

Soy sauce

Grated ginger

Directions:

In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients except wrappers.

Spoon scant ½ tablespoon meat mixture into center of a wrapper. With fingertips, moisten edges of wrapper with water. Bring edges together to form a semi circle. Seal and set aside. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.

Fill wok 1/3 to ½ full with water. Bring to a boil. Boil dumplings, 7-10 at a time 5 minutes or until meat is cooked throughout.

Remove dumplings with a slotted spoon. To make sauce, simply pour a little soy sauce into a shallow bowl. Sprinkle with grated ginger. Serve dumplings warm with sauce.

Want to learn how to cook healthy and fast? Visit Healthy Homes @ www.YourHealthyHome.net
For Darn Good Seasoning visit here www.DarnGoodSeasoning.com

Enriched Eggs: Are They Worth it?

noreply@blogger.com (Stella) — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 14:00:00 +0000

By Susan McQuillan
Reviewed by QualityHealth's Medical Advisory Board

Nutritionally speaking, eggs are a near-perfect food, naturally rich in high-quality protein and containing almost every vitamin and mineral known to be essential for human health. Still, eggs enriched with extra vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids are available in just about every supermarket. Why mess with mother nature?

Vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects against cell damage, and omega-3-fatty acids, healthful fats that are linked to the prevention and treatment of heart disease, inflammation and other chronic medical conditions, are essential nutrients that are abundant in the food supply. Unfortunately, however, these nutrients are not in the foods most people eat in great quantity, or on a regular basis. That's why supplements containing vitamin E and omega-3's are often promoted and why some food manufacturers choose to enrich their products with these nutrients.

All eggs contain some naturally occurring omega-3 fatty acids; enriched eggs simply contain more. An ordinary egg contains about 50 mg. total omega-3 fats, according to food scientist and registered dietitian, Mary Van Elswyk. Those omega-3's are found only in the yolk, she points out, so that's the part of the egg you have to eat in order to get the benefits. Hens that are fed grains enriched with flaxseed, fish oils or algae get an omega-3 fatty acid boost in their diet that transfers to their eggs. The amount and type of omega-3 fat in enriched eggs varies with the type of feed and the size of the egg and yolk but a large enriched egg can contain 100 to 200 mg of omega-3 fatty acids.

Egg yolks also contain vitamin E, but only in very small amounts. When the vitamin E content of a laying hen's diet is improved, the hen produces eggs that are richer in this vitamin than ordinary eggs. When canola oil or another vegetable oil is added to the hen's feed, the result is an egg that is lower in artery-clogging saturated fats and higher in healthier unsaturated fats.

Other feed ingredients, such as yellow corn and marigold petals, enrich the hen's diet and their eggs with health-promoting phytochemicals known as leutin and zeaxanthin. These substances, normally found only in plant foods such as spinach and other leafy, dark green vegetables, have been shown to help prevent macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness in older adults.

The cost of supplementing a hen's diet with the right types and amounts of additional ingredients that supply essential nutrients and change the balance of fats is factored into the price of eggs, The result is, naturally, a more expensive egg. But if your diet doesn't routinely include seafood, seeds, nuts, whole grains or other natural sources of Vitamin E, omega-3's and unsaturated fats, enriched eggs may well be worth the price.

Learn how to cook Healthy and Fast www.YourHealthyHome.net
For Darn Good Seasoning visit here www.DarnGoodSeasoning.com

Beef Enchiladas

noreply@blogger.com (Stella) — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 13:00:00 +0000

Utensils: colander, 3 quart saucepan, electric skillet

Ingredients:

1 medium onion

1 Lb. ground beef

2-10oz cans enchilada sauce

6 oz shredded cheese

1 tbs. Darn Good Seasoning

Flour tortillas (I use white corn)

Directions:

Fill 3 quart saucepan with about 2 inches of water. Place colander on top. Season with Darn Good and brown the hamburger and onion in the colander on top of the 3 quart. Place meat and onions in skillet. Add 1 can Enchilada Sauce. Cover. Cook at 250 degrees 10 minutes. Sprinkle the shredded cheese on the meat mixture. Cook for five more minutes. Serve on the tortillas.

Want to learn how to cook healthy and fast? Visit Healthy Homes @ www.YourHealthyHome.net
For Darn Good Seasoning visit here www.DarnGoodSeasoning.com

Beef Strogonoff

noreply@blogger.com (Stella) — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 02:02:00 +0000

Utensils: 6 quart saucepan, large skillet or electric skillet

Ingredients
1 small yellow onion
1 tablespoon butter
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 pound lean ground beef, 7% fat
4 ounces sliced baby portabella mushrooms (rinsed)
1 tsp Darn Good Seasoning
1/4 cup flour
1 (8-ounce) package wide egg noodles
1 (10-ounce) can double-strength beef broth
1 (8-ounce) container sour cream

1. Fill 6 quart saucepan 1/2 full of water. Cover and bring to a boil on high for pasta. Peel and dice (rinsed) onion.
2. Melt butter in large skillet pan on medium-high; swirl to coat. Stir in onions and garlic; cook 1 minute, stirring occasionally.
3. Add beef, mushrooms, and Darn Good Seasoning. Cook 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until meat crumbles and no pink remains.
4. Stir flour into beef mixture; cook 2 minutes, stirring often.
5. Stir pasta into boiling water. Boil 7–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
6. Slowly stir broth into beef mixture; stir in sour cream. Reduce to medium; simmer 7–8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Drain pasta thoroughly; serve beef mixture over pasta.

Want to learn how to cook healthy and fast? Visit Healthy Homes @ www.YourHealthyHome.net

For Darn Good Seasoning visit: www.DarnGoodSeasoning.com

Mexican Lasagna

noreply@blogger.com (Stella) — Sun, 15 Aug 2010 13:00:00 +0000

Utensils: electric skillet; mixing bowl

1 lb. ground beef
1 can (15 1/4oz.) corn, drained
1 can (15 oz.) tomato sauce (no salt)
1 can (6 oz.) black olives, sliced
1 cup picante sauce
2 tsp Darn Good Seasoning
16 oz. low-fat cottage cheese
2 eggs, slightly beaten
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
1 tsp. oregano
12 small tortillas, (fajita size)
1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Brown ground beef in electric skillet and drain off fat. Add corn, tomato sauce, 1/2 cup picant sauce, olives, chili powder and cumin. Simmer, stirring frequently, 5 minutes. In a bowl combine cottage cheese, eggs, (if using), Parmesan, oregano, and garlic powder. Remove meat mixture from skillet. Place 1/2 cup picante sauce on bottom of skillet. Arrange 4 tortillas, overlapping as necessary. Top with meat mixture. Spread cottage cheese mixture on next. Arrange another layer of tortillas, repeat layers 3 times. End with meat mixture. Top with cheese. Cook in electric skillet 25-30 minutes, 300 degrees with lid on and vapor valve closed.

Want to learn how to cook healthy and fast visit Healthy Homes @ www.YourHealthyHome.net
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Watermelon Nutrition Information And Facts

noreply@blogger.com (Stella) — Sat, 14 Aug 2010 17:15:00 +0000

The watermelon is a member of the Cucurbitaceae family,are fruits like cantaloupe, pumpkin and similar plants that grow on vines on the ground.

Watermelons can be round, oblong or spherical in shape; light to dark green in color, with white mottling stripes. Its flesh are commonly bright red in color but there are also other varieties where its flesh are dark brown, orange, yellow, pink or even white.

Watermelon is another of my all-time favorite. Not only is it cooling for the body in our tropical climate, it is excellent for flushing out the kidney and bladder, taking out waste materials.

As the red watermelon juice can be very sweet on its own, I usually juice them together with the rind as well. Rind is the whitish green part of the watermelon, between the skin and the red flesh. This part of the fruit contains the highest level of quality minerals and chlorophyll, and should not be discarded.

Nutritional Benefits

The water content in watermelon is extremely high at 92%. It is rich in beta-carotene, folic acid, vitamin C, vitamin B5 and smaller amounts of B1, B2, B3 and B6.
This big fruit is a rich source of essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium and smaller amounts of copper, iron and zinc.
As in tomatoes, watermelon is loaded with lycopene, the red carotenoid pigment that gives it the red color. This important anti-oxidant is powerful in neutralizing harmful free radicals in our body.
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Health Benefits
Watermelon is basically very cleansing, alkalinizing, diuretic and mineralizing. It is very effective in promoting intestinal elimination, keeping the body free from toxic wastes.
Its juice is easily digestible and are completely absorbed for all its minerals, providing much needed nutrients to the body.
The alkalinizing effect maintains the acid-alkaline balance in the body, neutralizing the toxic condition of the body resulting from excessive intake of acid-forming foods.
Drawing from the rich anti-oxidant and beta-carotene, the health effects of watermelon juice are immense.
Asthma: The powerful anti-oxidant in watermelon reduces toxic matters in the body, that in turn reduces asthma attacks.
Arthritis: The rich beta-carotene and vitamin C content in this big fruit do wonders in quenching inflammation that contributes to conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
Bladder problems: Its cleansing and natural diuretic effect is totally healing for kidney and bladder problems
Cholesterol: Watermelon juice is healthful in preventing cholesterol from clogging arteries and can increase HDL, the good cholesterol, reducing the risks of cardiovascular diseases.
Constipation: Drink a big glass of watermelon juice. It is very effective in aiding the elimination of wastes. Consuming plenty of this red juice will do a lot of good.
Fluid retention: Its diuretic action helps to eliminate excess fluids from the body, reducing water retention, especially for women during their monthly menstruation cycle and in pregnant women.
Heart attack: The combination of folic acid and the other essential vitamins in this fruit plays an important role in reducing the risks of heart attacks, strokes and colon cancer.
Itchiness: As watermelon juice cleanses the body of toxic wastes, it also greatly reduces itchiness that result from toxicity of acidosis.
Prostate Cancer: Lycopene (from red watermelons) has been extensively researched for its anti-oxidant and cancer-preventing properties. It is reported to be especially protective against prostate cancer.
Skin Blemish: Use watermelon externally by applying a small piece liberally on your face. Leave for ten minutes, then wash off with warm water, followed by a splash of cold water.
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Consumption Tips
If you cannot finish a whole watermelon and wish to keep it for later, cover the uneaten portion (cut in as few pieces as possible) with plastic cling wrap to prevent them from drying out. This also prevents it from absorbing the odors of other foods. Keep refrigerated to best preserve its freshness, taste and juiciness.
Watermelon is best eaten on its own, in fruit salads, or juiced. You may also freeze pureed watermelon in ice cube trays. Kids love this, especially on a hot day!
Caution
As watermelons grow resting on the ground, thoroughly clean it before it is cut. The knife used to halve the melon can transfer bacteria directly onto the flesh. Be sure to also wash cutting boards after use to avoid food contamination.

Learn how to cook Healthy and Fast www.YourHealthyHome.net
For Darn Good Seasoning visit here www.DarnGoodSeasoning.com

About the Nutritional Content of Peaches

noreply@blogger.com (Stella) — Sat, 14 Aug 2010 14:00:00 +0000

The peach was originally grown in China, then made its way through trade routes to the Middle East and then to Europe. Today, the state of Georgia is popularly associated with this sweet and nutritious fruit. The beneficial vitamins and minerals in peaches make them an excellent choice for people wanting to eat healthier food.

Features

A large peach measures almost 3 inches in diameter. It only contains 68 calories per serving, and of those only 4 calories come from fat. A peach has 2 g of protein and 17 g of carbs, 3 of which come from dietary fiber. It is low in saturated fat, cholesterol and sodium. It is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, niacin and dietary fiber.

Potential

The vitamins and minerals in peaches have wide and significant health benefits. When combined with a healthy diet and exercise, they aid with the function of most of the body's systems. Experts recommend a diet that includes fruits and vegetables. Peaches as a snack or incorporated in a meal helps to contribute to a well-balanced diet. Their natural sweetness makes them a perfect choice for kids when they crave a sweet snack.

Benefits

Potassium is an electrolyte, which is used to help maintain your body's fluid levels. It is essential in the functioning of the nervous system, and can help reduce headaches and migraines.
Vitamin A is also called retinol. It is an antioxidant that fights the causes of tissue and cellular damage.
Niacin (vitamin B3) is used to break down all type of food, promoting the normal function of the stomach and the digestive tract. It is needed also needed for healthy skin.
Vitamin C is vital to the growth, development and repair of tissues, especially in the formation of collagen, the absorption of iron, wound healing and in maintaining strong bones.

Effects

Getting enough potassium leads to a sense of well-being; it is also a natural pain reliever. It is a key element in maintaining the body's homeostasis (normal functioning). Niacin is important for the function of the nervous system, and red blood cell production depends on the presence of this nutrient. It is also important in the production of hormones.
The antioxidants in vitamin C attack harmful free radicals in the body to protect against infections and keep the immune system healthy. It is used to help the body form connective tissues, keep blood vessels healthy and help your body absorb iron.

Prevention/Solution

Peaches have a mild laxative property that aids with digestive health. Peaches are recommend to help fight cancer, heart disease and the effects of aging on eyesight, memory, immune function and inflammation.
The potassium in peaches helps to lower high blood pressure. It also eases joint stiffness associated with arthritis and has been shown the lower the risk of strokes, especially in men.
Niacin improves circulation and reduces high blood cholesterol levels. It stimulates circulation and helps to maintain normal blood pressure. The niacin in peaches is helpful in maintaining proper triglyceride levels in the blood. Studies suggest it is helpful for people who already have coronary artery disease. Niacin has been used in treatments for mood and psychological disorders as it aids in supporting brain functions and cognition.
Research shows that people who get enough vitamin C in the diets are at a lower risk for strokes. It is used to help people with immune systems weakened by stress. While it is not the magic cure for the common cold, it can help to prevent the cold from progressing to pneumonia or lung infections.

Significance

Deficiency in potassium causes muscle paralysis (this includes the muscles of the heart). Other serious side effects of potassium deficiency include poor circulation, chronic fatigue syndrome, edema, hypertension and intestinal pain.
Deficiency in vitamin A leads to night blindness.

Read more: About the Nutritional Content of Peaches | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/about_4587125_nutritional-content-peaches.html#ixzz0wUSWtfem

Want to learn how to cook healthy and fast? Visit Healthy Homes @ www.YourHealthyHome.net

For Darn Good Seasoning visit: www.DarnGoodSeasoning.com

Easy Chicken Alfredo

noreply@blogger.com (Stella) — Sat, 14 Aug 2010 13:00:00 +0000

Utensils: Large Skillet, 6qt with strainer, 4qt Saucepan

1 lb uncooked linguine
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 (4.5 oz) jar slice mushrooms
1 (16 oz) jar of Alfredo sauce
1 bag frozen mixed vegetables
1/3 cup milk
Darn Good Seasoning

Directions:
In a large pot, cook pasta according to package directions. Drain well. Heat large skillet to medium heat. Season chicken and place in pan, cover with whistle open. When whistle blows, flip chicken and cook for about 5 minutes longer. Cut chicken into cubes. In a 4qt saucepan, over medium low heat, add chicken, mushrooms, veggies, sauce and milk. Cook for about 15 minutes or until whistle blows. Serve over warm noodles.

Great with garlic bread.

Learn how to cook Healthy and Fast www.YourHealthyHome.net
For Darn Good Seasoning visit here www.DarnGoodSeasoning.com

Autumn Pork Chops

noreply@blogger.com (Stella) — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 13:00:00 +0000

Utensils: 6 qt. saucepan; electric skillet

Ingredients:

1 tbsp. olive oil

4 pork chops, 1/2" thick

1 can cream of celery soup

1/2 cup apple juice or water

2 tbsp. spicy-brown mustard

1 tbsp. honey

1 tbs. Darn Good Seasoning

4 cups hot cooked medium egg noodles

Directions:
Cook egg noodles and drain. Place oil in skillet, season (with Darn Good) and brown the pork chops. Add soup, apple juice, mustard, honey and pepper. Heat to a boil. Cover and cook over low heat 10 min. on medium heat.

Serve with noodles.

Learn how to cook Healthy and Fast www.YourHealthyHome.net
For Darn Good Seasoning visit here www.DarnGoodSeasoning.com

Crustless Ham or Bacon Quiche

noreply@blogger.com (Stella) — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 13:00:00 +0000

Utensils: electric skillet and large skillet

6 eggs
1 cup Bisquick
1/3 cup butter
3 cups milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 chopped onion
1 cup diced ham or ¾ cup cooked bacon
2 dashes of Darn Good Seasoning

Heat skillet to 350 degrees. Saute onions in large skillet with a little butter or oil until starting to carmelize (3-5 minutes). Melt butter. Beat eggs and Bisquick with butter. Beat or blend in rest of ingredients. Bake in rectangular buttered pan for 30- 45 minutes or until done.

Learn how to cook Healthy and Fast www.YourHealthyHome.net
For Darn Good Seasoning visit here www.DarnGoodSeasoning.com