What Are The Benefits Of Organic Wheat Grass Powder

Herbal supplements are easy to find and include in your diet. Taking an herbal supplement such as organic wheatgrass powder can help boost your health, energy and immunity.

Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass is a plant that is harvested to be used as a dietary supplement because of its high levels of important and highly beneficial nutrients, such as amino acids, B vitamins, beta-carotene and fiber. Organic wheatgrass powder is made from wheatgrass that was not grown with chemical pesticides or fertilizers.

Aids in Digestion

Wheatgrass has high levels of fiber, which help the body digest food better and faster. It also helps to detoxify the body as it moves through your system. Additionally, the amino acids help you to get more nutrition from the other foods you eat.

Boosts Immunity

Wheatgrass helps your body boost its own immunity levels. It contains powerful antioxidants that help your body fight illness and disease naturally. It also contains high levels of vitamin C, a natural immunity booster.

Blood and Heart Health

Wheatgrass helps the body to increase the amount of red blood cells it carries, and it promotes heart health. It has also been shown to decrease inflammation following a heart attack.

Taking Wheatgrass Powder

You can find organic wheatgrass powder at most health food or natural food stores. The powder can be mixed in with food or drink. Wheatgrass is sometimes also eaten fresh, but the powdered form is easier to include in a daily regimen.

Daily recommended amounts differ by formula, so you should follow the directions on the package that you purchase. Always speak with a doctor before adding an herbal supplement to your routine.

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Healthy Homemade Cat Food

Healthy Homemade Cat Food

Your cat's diet must contain all the necessary vitamins and minerals for his health. While most commercial cat foods do contain the required ingredients, they often also contain cereals, hormones, preservatives and chemicals. The solution may be to make your own healthy, homemade cat food. To ensure that your kitty gets all the necessary nutrition in his diet, check with your veterinarian before feeding him homemade cat food.

Taurine

Your cat needs taurine in order to metabolize bile acid. Her body does not produce it, so she must get it from her food. Most meats contain taurine, or you can purchase taurine powder to add to her homemade cat food. Heat from cooking, however, destroys taurine in meats.

Raw Food Diet

According to veterinarian Lisa A. Pierson, although raw meats may risk contamination from bacteria, there are ways to prepare the food and make it safer than most commercial foods.

Freezing will destroy many parasites that may be present. Freeze the meat for at least a week, then thaw and rinse with clean water before feeding it to your cat. Thaw naturally, as a microwave will destroy the taurine in the meat.

Vary the meats you give to your cat. Follow chicken one day with beef or lamb the next. You can also use venison and turkey. Raw beef heart added to the homemade cat food every other day will provide the necessary taurine. To satisfy calcium requirements, give your cat a raw chicken wing, meat and bone, twice a week.

Cooked Food Diet

Many cats will not eat raw food. In this case, homemade cat food may be cooked. Grind or chop the meat together with beef heart. Add egg to hold it together. Rinse eggshells, grind them and add to the cooked food to meet your cat's calcium requirements.

You also will need to add a carbohydrate source, often rice, oatmeal, barley, peas or pasta. Provide fiber with cooked sweet potato and extra fat with vegetable oil, olive oil or fish oil. In "Preparing Homemade Cat Food Recipe," Jason Ladock recommends adding nutritional supplements to your homemade food. Your veterinarian can recommend a commercial blend of nutritional supplements. Taurine must be included in the additives.

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Cook Dry Navy Beans

Having dried navy beans on hand gives you a cheap, healthy option for a vegetarian entree or side dish. These beans create the base for Boston baked beans or senate bean soup. Some worry about the gas caused by beans, but by preparing them correctly, you can cut down on this side effect. Once you have cooked your dry navy beans, use them in any recipe calling for canned navy beans in an equal amount. Unlike canned beans packed in salt, you can adjust the amount of salt to your personal preferences in your freshly prepared navy beans. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Pour 10 cups of water into a two-gallon saucepan. Add 1 lb. of dried navy beans. Bring to a boil over high heat.

2. Lower the heat to medium-high and boil for two to three minutes. Remove the pot from the heat and cover. Let the beans soak for one to four hours. Soaking the beans overnight in cold water increases the likelihood of gas.

3. Pour the beans and their soaking water into a strainer placed over the sink. Do not use the soaking water for cooking to prevent gas. Rinse the beans to remove any residual soaking liquid.

4. Return the beans to the pot and pour six cups of fresh water in the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Cover the pot, and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the navy beans covered for 1-1/2 to 2 hours.

5. After 1-1/2 hours, pull a bean out of the cooking liquid and test for tenderness. Bite the bean, and remove from heat when the beans feel tender but not mushy. Add salt to taste only after cooking to prevent the beans from becoming tough.

6. Drain the navy beans only when ready to use, but leave them in the cooking liquid until then to keep them from becoming too dry. See resources below for recipe ideas for your cooked navy beans or just add salt and pepper and enjoy them unadorned.

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Make Bbq Beef Brisket In A Slow Cooker

Make BBQ Beef Brisket in a Slow Cooker

This is the easiest shredded BBQ beef recipe I've ever tried and it's delicious. Perfect for potlucks since it's such a crowd pleaser. I'm not a very good cook at all, but I can definitely make this. This recipe takes 8-10 hours on high setting and serves 10 (or serves 2 with lots of leftovers). Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Turn the slow cooker on high and spray with Pam on all sides and bottom. Trim the fat off the roast with a knife. Cut the roast into 4-5 chunks, slicing along the grain to allow more tenderness. Place beef in the slow cooker.

2. In a separate bowl, mix together McCormick's seasoning, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, and ketchup. Whisk until well blended. Pour over beef and move the beef chunks around so every piece is coated with sauce.

3. Place lid over slow cooker and stir beef every 1-2 hours to make sure sauce is not drying. Sauce will become very thin while hot. After 8 hours, take a piece of beef out of the slow cooker and test for doneness. If the piece does not shred VERY easily with two forks, or if it doesn't crumble when you press down on it with a fork, it's not done. Beef should shred like butter, almost like you could shred it with your fingers.

4. When done, turn setting to "Keep Warm" take two forks and pull apart each chunk of beef, placing the shreds back into the sauce as you go. When you're done shredding, the beef should soak up all the sauce and you should have beautiful, juicy shreds of BBQ beef. Keeps warm in the slow cooker all day, and re-heats well in the microwave. Serve warm on french rolls and enjoy!

Tags: slow cooker, Beef Brisket, Beef Brisket Slow, beef slow, beef slow cooker

What Elements Are In Himalayan Pink Salt

Himalayan Pink Salt is found in the foothills of the Himalayas.

Himalayan pink salt is the generic name for halite, or rock salt, mined in the Khewra Salt Mines, which are located in the foothills of the Himalayan Mountains northeast of Lahore. The salt mine is the second-largest salt mine in the world and the oldest in Asia, having been mined for more than 2,000 years. The salt can range in color from pure white to a deep red; pink is most common. Add this to my Recipe Box.

The Source

The halite beds where Himalayan pink salt is harvested was formed from marine deposits during the Jurassic era more than 250 million years ago. The salt has been a valuable commodity for many years. Residents use it to preserve meat and fish. The salt is extracted, crushed and washed entirely by hand. It dries in the sun before being packed for distribution.

Constitution

Himalayan pink salt is more than 98 percent sodium chloride. Besides the sodium and chlorine, other common elements in the salt are magnesium, potassium, manganese, zinc, iron, calcium, boron, copper, selenium and chromium, as well as other trace elements. The salt gets its pink color from traces of iron.

Beneficial Properties

The salt is said to support good nutrient absorption and balance electrolytes, settle the body's pH, get rid of toxins, increase the blood's circulation and normalize the blood pressure. Taking a teaspoon in a glass of water first thing in the morning is also said to help osteoporosis, rheumatism, gall bladder stones, gout and kidney stones.

Culinery uses

Himalayan pink salt can be found in most health food stores. The crystals come in many different sizes. The crystals are generally pure and not contaminated by any artificial chemicals. Chefs use the salt in gourmet cooking as a replacement for common salt.

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How Long Do You Cook A 4 Pound Roast

How long a roast needs to cook depends on what type of meat you are cooking. Beef will have a different cooking time than a pork roast. In some cases, even the cut of meat affects cooking time, as bone-in and boneless cuts cook at different rates. General guidelines for cooking times are available in most cookbooks and through the USDA's Food Safety and Inspection service. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Beef Roasts

Beef roasts are cooked between rare and well done depending on the cut of meat. Most prime rib is served either rare or medium rare, while a brisket roast is most often cooked to well done. When cooking a beef roast, a meat thermometer is your best bet for determining the doneness of meat. Without one, you can judge by cooking time for the cut. A 4-pound, bone-in rib roast will take approximately 1 3/4 hours to reach the medium rare stage, while you would need to add another 20 minutes for a boneless rib roast. Rump or round roasts will take about 2 hours to cook to medium, and add an additional 20 minutes for well done. A boneless tenderloin roast will take approximately 4 hours to cook in the oven. Cooking times for braising or Dutch oven cooking are about the same if cooked over medium heat.

Pork Roasts

Most 4-pound pork roast cuts can be roasted for two hours and be considered done. This includes crown, tenderloin and loin roasts. Boston butt roasts are the exception, needing a longer cooking time at around three hours. Hams, both fresh and smoked, need between 1 3/4 and 2 1/2 hours. Pork should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit to be considered fully cooked and safe to eat.

Lamb or Goat Roasts

Lamb and goat are considered to be red meats and therefore can be cooked to varying degrees of doneness. For a 4-pound lamb roast, you should cook the meat for 2 1/3 hours for medium rare, three hours for medium and 3 1/3 hours for well done. Subtract 30 minutes for boneless roasts. Goats are cooked much like lamb and can be substituted in most recipes. Goat roasts should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit, and this will take a 4-pound goat roast approximately three to 3 1/2 hours.

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South American Style Restaurants In Atlanta

Enjoy South American cuisine in Atlanta.

The multi-cultural state of Georgia is home to a large Hispanic population. While Mexicans make up the largest section of Georgia's Hispanic population, significant numbers of South Americans from countries such as Argentina and Ecuador also reside in the area. Visitors to Atlanta can get a taste of South American flavors of by eating at one of Atlanta's South American restaurants.

Fogo de Chão

Fogo de Chão is located in uptown Atlanta's Buckhead district, a short stroll from the Holiday Inn Express and a 15-minute walk from the Atlanta History Center. The restaurant offers a southern Brazilian-style "churrascaria," or grilled meat restaurant. Servers wearing traditional gaucho dress present diners with skewers of meat--seasoned top sirloin, filet mignon, pork ribs and lamb--and slice them right at the table. A salad bar that includes fried yucca, garlic mashed potatoes and black beans, and described by Frommer's as "one of the best in the city," is included in the set price, as is a basket of traditional Brazilian "pão de queijo," or cheese bread. Drinks include Brazilian caipirinha cocktails and Guaraná soda, while the dessert list includes papaya cream and South American flan. The restaurant serves dinner seven days a week, along with lunch from Mondays through Fridays.

Tierra

The Latin American and Caribbean fusion restaurant Tierra was named Restaurant of the Year by the Atlanta Constitution Journal in 2008. The restaurant is located in midtown, between Piedmont Park and the Ansley Mall Shopping Center. Tierra has been in business since 1999 and offers a changing menu that can include entr es such as roasted chicken with Ecuadorian peanut sauce and grilled pork medallions with tropical fruit relish, along with side dishes that include fried plantains. Tierra serves South American favorites such as dulce de leche ice cream for dessert, along with an extensive list of South American, Spanish and French wines. The restaurant serves dinner every day except Sundays and Mondays.

Fuego Mundo

Fuego Mundo is situated in the Sandy Springs district of Atlanta and has been in business since 2009. The restaurant, which is run by Colombian-born Masha Hleap-Hershkovitz and her husband, Udi Hershkovitz, offers an exhibition-style wood-fire grill where entre s are marinated in Fuego Mundo's signature sauces and spices and cooked to order. All main dishes and sides are gluten- and dairy-free, and vegetarian dishes, which include tofu and vegetables, are cooked separately from all meats and chicken. Diners can try the gourmet mango pie for dessert, and choose from a selected wine list. The restaurant is decorated in Latin arts and menu cards that feature South American trivia. Fuego Mondo serves lunch and dinner every day except Mondays.

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Five Economic Factors

A variety of factors affect the economy.

A nation's economy can be highly volatile and is often a function of a variety of factors. In a strong economy, unemployment is low and consumers enjoy increased spending power. In a struggling economy, more people are out of work and consumer confidence dwindles. As confidence decreases, less money goes back into the economy, causing businesses to become less profitable and jobs to disappear.

Supply and Demand

Supply and demand impacts a nation's Gross Domestic Product (GDP), which is the combined dollar value of all goods ans services produced by a country in a given year. For example, according to Wealth-Enhancer.com, the high demand for personal computers in the United States in the 1990s led to an increase in the supply of computers, which contributed to an increase in GDP during that time. The higher the demand for goods and services, the greater the need for workers to produce them, leading to economic growth.

Interest Rates

Fluctuation in interest rates can have an impact on consumer purchasing. According to the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, when interest rates are high, consumers may be less inclined to borrow money to buy a new home or car. People who have adjustable-rate home mortgages can face financial hardship or even lose their homes when interest rates spike. Retirees who live largely off investment income may need to lower their standard of living when interest rates decline.

Inflation

Higher inflation is typically accompanied by higher prices, so consumers may be less willing to buy non-essential or luxury items. If wages don't rise at the same rate of inflation, people actually lose money. When inflation rises, the value of the dollar decreases, so consumer buying power drops accordingly. The changing of national monetary policy, such as adjusting the prime interest rate or putting more money into circulation can influence inflation, but the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco reports that such changes can take one to three years to have a major impact.

Unemployment

The rate of unemployment can have a major effect on the economy. The more people who are out of work, the less money that is circulated into the economy through the purchase of goods and services. Even the threat of unemployment has an impact, as workers who fear losing their jobs are less inclined to spend or invest their money. According to Wealth-Enhancer.com, unemployment increases near the end of an economic downturn, since companies typically try to avoid laying off workers off until it becomes necessary.

Foreign Exchange Rate

A nation's foreign exchange rate is the value of its currency in the international market. In the United States, when the value of the dollar is high in relation to other countries' currencies, the more goods and services we are able to import. In contrast, a higher value of the dollar means that other nations may be less inclined to import products from the United States. According to the Economics Web Institute, factors such as a rising trade surplus can increase the demands for a country's currency by foreigners, thus strengthening the currency.

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Foods That Raise Blood Sugar

If you have diabetes, then there are certain foods that raise blood sugar that you should avoid. It is important to keep blood sugar levels under control because unbalanced blood sugar levels can put you at risk for developing diabetes-related conditions such as heart disease, high blood pressure and eye problems.

Refined Sugars

Avoid refined sugars. These include white sugar, brown sugar, honey, maple syrup, rice syrup and evaporated cane juice.

Refned Flours

Refined flours react just like refined sugars in the blood stream, and should be avoided. These include white flour, rice flour, spelt flour and any flour that is highly refined. Substitute whole grains and whole grain flours instead.

White Foods

White foods include white rice, white potatoes and highly starchy foods. White foods have a high glycemic index and react like sugar in the blood stream.

Substitutes

There are many sugar substitutes that are natural and will allow you to enjoy a sweet dessert. They do not raise blood sugar levels, and you can find them at any health food store. They include agave nectar, Stevia and Xylitol.

Warning

Never use artificial sugars like aspartame or sucralose. These are harmful to the body and should be avoided.

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Use Of Chicken Manure In Aquaculture

Use of Chicken Manure in Aquaculture

Chicken manure is the primary fertilizer used in aquaculture, the farming of fish and plants. Chickens are typically confined and eat commercial-grade feed; their manure is higher in nutrient content than manure from grass-fed cows and horses, making it ideal for application in aquaculture practices, especially fish and shellfish farming. Does this Spark an idea?

Using Organic Fertilizers in Aquaculture

Like other organic fertilizers, chicken manure decomposes into nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium, which in turn feeds algae and phytoplankton. Fish then feed upon the phytoplankton and algae; in some cases, the fertilizer may contribute directly to the nutrition of the fish.

Chicken manure fertilization of fish-farming ponds offers excellent opportunities for sustainable, cyclical agricultural practices. Farmers who own chicken coops as well as aquaculture ponds can reap great benefits from using chicken manure fertilizer to feed fish and plants.

Apply Fertilizer

Some fish farmers build chicken coops over fish ponds; manure and uneaten chicken feed can then be washed into the pond. Pens may also be built with flooring that allows waste to fall or be swept directly into the pond.

Chicken manure can also be purchased, or removed from coops built elsewhere and used to irrigate the pond. Recommended application of chicken manure fertilizer is six to eight times per week per hundred square meters of pond (assuming 10 to 15 chickens are producing manure).

The first application should be made two weeks prior to stocking the pond with fish or crop plants; this will increase the food supply prior to their arrival, especially if the pond was previously unfertilized. Maintain a fertilization schedule -- regular amounts should be applied at regular intervals. If fish eat the fertilizer directly, consider daily application of smaller doses (as opposed to weekly application). If fertilizing daily, apply the manure mid-morning to stave off oxygenation problems.

Problems and Considerations

As chicken manure and other organic fertilizers degrade, they consume oxygen from water. Fish in oxygen-depleted water will come to the surface to gulp air. If signs of oxygen depletion are observed, immediately suspend fertilization and add fresh water to the pond to revive the fish. You may also drain water from the bottom of the pond, where the oxygen levels are lowest.

Note that low-oxygen problems tend to occur at night when phytoplankton are not producing oxygen. Keeping track of the phytoplankton can help farmers prevent oxygen depletion; Secchi disks give readings of how many phytoplankton populate a particular sample of water; readings of 20 cm or below indicate that the number of phytoplankton is too high and oxygen depletion has begun.

Tags: oxygen depletion, chicken coops, Chicken manure, Chicken Manure, Chicken Manure Aquaculture

Homemade Turkey Gravy

Thanksgiving dinner is not complete without the gravy.

Turkey gravy is a holiday treat that is worth taking the time to make. The secret to smooth gravy is the temperature of the liquids. The most flavorful gravy uses broth made by boiling the turkey bones and skin with the right mix of spices and herbs. Freeze turkey gravy to add body to soups and sauces well beyond the holidays. Using cornstarch and tofu as thickeners keeps your gravy gluten-free. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Set aside the bones, skin and giblets after carving your turkey. Place everything in a large stockpot. Fill the pot with water until the bones and skin are covered, and bring to a rolling boil for 15 minutes. Remove from heat.

2. Sift out all the bones and skin into a separate dish and remove any good meat. Return meat to the pot and bring the liquid back to a rolling boil.

3. Add minced onions and diced celery. Mash the blocks of soft tofu into a paste and add it to the stockpot as well (another name for this thickened paste is "roux"). If you do not want to use tofu, substitute the soy flour mixed to a creamy consistency with water--to make your roux.

4. Add ground sage, ground black peppercorns, parsley and tarragon to the pot, stirring well. Reduce heat to simmer.

5. Remove two cups of the liquid from the pot and allow it to cool to room temperature. Stir the cornstarch into the cooled liquid to make a thick paste. Slowly stir the cornstarch paste into the simmering stockpot and bring to a rolling boil for two full minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool before freezing gravy in one-quart plastic zipper bags.

Tags: bones skin, rolling boil, allow cool, bring rolling, bring rolling boil

Make A Great Barbecue Beef Brisket In A Slow Cooker

Use a slow cooker for perfect barbecued beef sandwiches.

Make a great-tasting beef brisket sandwich that your whole family will love, using a slow cooker that makes the process nearly effortless. This recipe feeds about six, and is easily doubled for a larger gathering. When you purchase the brisket, look for meat with a little marbling. The added fat adds to the moisture and flavor of the meat. The recipe works with any inexpensive beef roast, with outstanding results. Allow about eight hours if you are cooking the meat on low, or five to six hours on high. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Prepare your roast by heating 1 to 2 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet and browning the outside of the roast. This helps to lock in the juices.

2. Drizzle about 1 tablespoon of olive oil in the bottom of the slow cooker, and set it to low. Drop in the browned brisket and make three or four deep cuts into the roast to help the flavors spread through the meat as it cooks.

3. Peel and mince the garlic. Press some of the garlic down into the cuts and sprinkle the rest on top of the meat. Chop the onion and bell pepper, and do the same. Salt and pepper the brisket and cover.

4. Combine the tomato sauce and tomato paste in a pot over medium heat. Add the Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar and cayenne pepper to taste. Simmer and stir frequently.

5. Reserve about half of the sauce in the refrigerator and pour the rest over the brisket. Replace the lid and let the brisket cook, undisturbed, at least 8 hours on low. Don't remove the lid again since doing so allows the heat to escape.

6. Remove the roast from the slow cooker and place into a large pan. Using 2 forks, "pull" the meat to shred it into small pieces. Mix in the reserved sauce and warm over medium heat until it is warmed through. Place on the buns and serve.

Tags: slow cooker, medium heat, over medium, over medium heat

Use Tomatillos

Tomatillos are now thought to be the fruit mentioned in early Aztec writings, where scholars thought that they were reading about a tomato. Its tartness and hint of citrus can spice up any dish, even outside the realm of Mexican cuisine. It can be used in dishes from savory to sweet. Read on to learn use tomatillos. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Chop the tomatillo and create various salsas. The traditional tomato salsa can be enhanced with tomatillos, or you can make a green salsa by omitting the tomatoes altogether. Add avocado. For a sweeter salsa, mix the tomatillo with tropical fruits such as mango, papaya, peppers and eggplant to make a sweet salsa that can be use with pork, chicken or fish.

2. Puree the tomatillo into green sauces that can be used as a condiment for grilled meats instead of tomatoes. It can also be added to your marinades in place of tomatoes.

3. A sweetened tomatillo can be used in marmalades and jams. The fruit is in the same family as a gooseberry, so use in sweet recipes shouldn't seem like stretch. The lemony flavor is said to be enhanced when cooking, so the sky's the limit with the tomatillo in desserts, maybe even pie. An example is the traditional mock apple pie. Add some chopped tomatillos to crackers to enliven the faux dessert.

4. Use wherever the tomato traditional takes the spotlight to add a twist to your stews, meat dishes, and soups. Tomatillos are very versatile, and the flavor is actually enhanced when heated. A hint of lemon appears to compliment most savory dishes.

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Season Wild Rice

Add basic seasonings to wild rice while it simmers.

Consider replacing standard rice with wild rice to complement a meal. Wild rice, with its nutty flavor and fluffy texture, makes a delightful side dish for a variety of entrees. As you prepare wild rice, add different herbs and spices to make it delicious. Season wild rice as it cooks so the ingredients will infuse into the cooking rice kernels, making a tasty dish. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Place 1 cup wild rice into the colander and rinse it under cool water for about one minute.

2. Boil 3 cups of broth in the saucepan.

3. Add the washed wild rice to the boiling broth and stir to combine the rice with the broth.

4. Add as much salt and pepper to the rice and broth as you desire.

5. Boil the ingredients in the saucepan again and then reduce the heat to medium-low.

6. Cover the saucepan and simmer the rice for about 45 minutes.

7. Uncover the rice, add the slivered almonds and the dried parsley and cover the saucepan again.

8. Cook the wild rice for an additional 15 minutes and then check it. Uncover the wild rice after the kernels pop open and the rice becomes fluffy and cook it for another five minutes.

9. Pour off any remaining liquid and remove the rice from the heat.

10. Allow the wild rice to stand, covered, for about 10 minutes.

11. Uncover the rice and fluff it with a fork.

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Mix Peanut Butter

Natural or organic peanut butter typically contains just peanuts and salt. Without any additives to stabilize the consistency of the peanut butter, the peanuts and peanut oil will separate after the peanut butter sits for a while. This means you need to stir the peanut butter before serving. You can perform this task with a peanut butter mixer, which is a jar lid with a curved mixing rod on the underside of the lid and a handle on the upper side that turns. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Remove the lid from the peanut butter jar. Check to see if the lid is the same diameter as the peanut butter mixer. In order to use the mixer, it must be the same size as the jar's lid.

2. Screw the peanut butter mixer onto the peanut butter jar as you would a lid. As you put the mixer on the jar, the mixing rod will sink into the peanut butter.

3. Turn the handle on the mixer to stir the peanut butter. Stir until it reaches the desired consistency.

4. Insert a dinner knife into the peanut butter, and stir if you don't have a peanut butter mixer.

Tags: peanut butter, butter mixer, peanut butter mixer, into peanut, into peanut butter, stir peanut, stir peanut butter

Ayurvedic Vegetarian Cooking

Ayurvedic vegetarian cooking is based on the writings of Ayurveda, the classical Indian god of medicine. Ayurveda is concerned with improving one's mental and physical health. The greatest demand on our human system is digestion. Energy used for digestion could better be utilized for enjoyment, concentration and meditation. Cooking vegetarian foods is considered a form of worship. It is believed to be the path of least resistance for a person wanting to raise his energy level. Add this to my Recipe Box.

What is Ayurvedic Cooking?

Ayurvedic vegetarian cooking, prevalent in Indian cuisine, has a purpose of maintaining mental, physical, social, physical and spiritual harmony through a variety of vegetarian foods, herbs, spices, legumes, fresh fruits and fresh vegetables. The cooking is based upon knowledge of Ayurveda and involves more than simply cooking food. According to the Dhanwantari, how the food is prepared, when it is cooked and eaten, how food affects an individual's consciousness, compatibility of foods and the cleanliness of both the kitchen and cook all play a role in ayurvedic cooking. Ayurvedic cooking is an art and a science.

Why Vegetarian?

Vegetarian cuisine has been the foundation of ayurvedic cooking since its inception. Following the Hindu philosophy and living principles, proponents of ayurvedic cooking believe that eating flesh is counterproductive to a healthy lifestyle, according to sanatansociety.org. Meat is considered dead food which has had its vital energy removed. The slaughtering process is another reason to avoid meat since it causes distress to the animal.

Practitioners of ayurvedic cooking believe that plants form the basis of the food chain since they are closest to the life source itself, that being the sun. Plants efficiently provide needed nutrients.

The Basics

Basics of ayurvedic vegetarian cooking are the five elements of fire, water, earth, air and akash, according to sanatansociety.org. Other basics involve three doshas (body types), three gunas (medicines and foods categorized as sattva, rajas and tamas); six tastes (sweet, salty, pungent, sour, astringent and bitter).

The three doshas or body types are vata, pitta and kapha. These body types (or humors) are tied into the five elements and are responsible for the way that the body functions, according to the Ayurveda. Our system is in balance when the three are undisturbed in their proper organs. Disease and health concerns are caused when the humors are disturbed.

The three gunas are foods categorized as sattva (which is considered essence), rajas and tamas (considered gross) according to Ayurveda teachings. The healthiest are sattva which includes foods that are the foundation of higher states of conscious. They provide nutrition without taxing the system. Easily digestible fresh fruits and vegetables, dairy products, nuts, grains and many herbs fall into this category. Rajas foods are hot, dry, sour, bitter, pungent and salty. They increase our metabolism and are the foundation of activity, pain and motion. Fried foods are examples. Tamas foods are distasteful and decaying. Large amounts of energy are needed to digest them. Processed foods, meat products and alcohol are examples.

The six tastes are used by the cook as indicators of how certain foods will affect a person before digestion.

Tags: body types, according Ayurveda, according sanatansociety, ayurvedic cooking, ayurvedic cooking, ayurvedic cooking believe, Ayurvedic vegetarian

Smoked Turkey Cooking Times

Many people find smoking turkey is a delicious way to enjoy a turkey dinner. The key to smoking a turkey in a smoker is to keep the temperature of the smoker between 225 and 300 degrees F for the entire cooking time. According to the Food Safety and Inspection Service of the USDA, a smoked turkey should never be stuffed because the stuffing may not cook to a high enough temperature to stop bacteria growth. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Prepare the Smoker

Fill the liquid pan of your smoker with water. Unless your cooker is electric or gas, fill the second pan of your smoker with charcoal or wood briquettes. Smokers require both hot smoke and moisture to cook and properly smoke a turkey. Light the charcoal or wood chips or turn on the heat source and place the cover on the smoker. When the internal temperature reaches 225 degrees F, you are ready to smoke the turkey. Continue to add coals to the smoker every hour to maintain the required temperature.

Smoke the Turkey

Smoked turkeys require very little seasoning before cooking. Small amounts of poultry seasoning or salt and pepper will be all that is needed as the smoke adds the primary flavor. Plan on smoking the turkey for no less than 20 to 30 minutes per pound. If your turkey weighs 20 pounds it will take between 5 and 6 hours to fully cook. Check the turkey with a meat thermometer after the lowest cooking time. The turkey should reach an internal temperature of 165 degree F at the thickest part of the thigh and breast to be considered safe to eat. Keep the smoker closed until it is time to check the turkey.

Tips for Smoking

Never use softwoods, such as pine for smoking any type of meats. Softwoods produce turpentine and a black resin that will coat the food. If your smoker doesn't have a thermostat readout, use an oven thermometer to insure that you have safe cooking temperatures. You can use wine or fruit juices, such as apple or pear, to add additional flavor to the smoked turkey. Keep the smoker out of windy areas as wind can cause a drop of temperature inside the smoker.

Tags: smoking turkey, your smoker, charcoal wood, cooking time, internal temperature, Keep smoker, smoke turkey

Music To A Sony Walkman Bean

Adding music to your Bean

The Walkman Bean is a portable MP3 player released by Sony in 2005. It has since been discontinued but many people still own Walkman Beans and you can still find them available for purchase on the Internet. If you own or have recently purchased a Walkman Bean and are curious as to add music to the device, you can rest easy knowing that it is a simple process that requires very little time and effort. All you need is a computer with a USB port and you'll have music on your Bean in no time.

Instructions

1. Slide the plastic cover on the top of the Bean back to expose the USB (Universal Serial Bus) connector. The connector should pop out from the interior of the phone once the cover is pulled back.

2. Turn on your computer and insert the connector into its USB port. Then launch the music player on your computer. On a Mac this will be iTunes; on a PC it will be Windows Media Player.

3. Locate the "Devices" heading in the main screen of your music player and you will see the Bean icon listed underneath the heading.

4. Highlight any songs in your music library that you wish to add to your Bean and then drag and drop them into the Bean icon. A status bar should appear and once it finishes the music will be successfully added to your Bean.

Tags: your Bean, Walkman Bean, Bean icon, music player, music your, music your Bean, your computer

Find A Garcinia Cambogia Supplement

Science hasn't proven Garcinia cambogia helps with weight loss.

Garcinia cambogia is a fruit from India that's gained enough attention as a weight-loss remedy to warrant a fact sheet by the U.S. Army Medical Department. In its native land, Garcinia cambogia treats rheumatism and bowel problems. It also doubles as a spice in curry dishes. Despite the claims in the United States, research hasn't proven that taking Garcinia cambogia supplements makes you weigh less. Yet, the supplements have become widespread, mostly as tablets and capsules. Some manufacturers also sell chewing gum, power bars, tea and even salad dressing laced with Garcinia cambogia. It isn't hard to find. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Pay a visit to your local health food store. Garcinia cambogia falls in the category of "natural products." You're likely to find a larger selection of its supplements, with different potencies and formulas, at the natural food store than at the pharmacy aisle in your supermarket. Health food stores also usually hire someone with a strong knowledge of herbs to assist customers. Find out whether such a person is available to explain to you the difference among all the Garcinia cambogia products.

2. Do an online search. A Google search using the keyword phrase "Garcinia cambogia supplement" returns over 63,000 results. The advantage of buying online is that the prices are often lower than at the store. But check the shipping fees to avoid overpaying in the end. The disadvantage of online shopping is that sometimes you don't know the quality of what you're getting. A health food store owner is concerned with his reputation and is likely to research products before putting them for sale on his shelves.

3. Ask your alternative health care provider about Garcinia cambogia. Chiropractors, naturopathic doctors and acupuncturists, for instance, often sell supplements in their offices to increase their income. These providers tend to sell products they've used themselves successfully, or that they know have helped their patients. They also buy from reputable companies, since their careers are on the line and they could lose clients. If you have a relationship with an alternative health care provider, find out whether she sells Garcinia cambogia or can get it from her distributor.

Tags: Garcinia cambogia, food store, alternative health, alternative health care, care provider, hasn proven, health care

Buy Fresh Produce From Noneu Countries

Buy Fresh Produce From Non-EU Countries

Whether for political or personal reasons, some people prefer not to buy produce imported from the 27 member countries of the European Union. Farmers in the EU often receive government subsidies that affect prices in the United States, and imported produce consumes energy in the transportation process. There are a few easy steps that can be taken to avoid buying fresh produce from EU countries. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Check Food Labels

The guidelines of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration mandate that each piece of food sold in the country must have a label bearing the address of the manufacturer or grower. If the address is not in the United States, the label must clearly indicate the country of origin. All it takes is a quick glance at the label to determine where a piece of produce was grown.

Know the Member Countries

Once the country of origin of a piece of produce is determined, it can easily be discerned whether the fruit or vegetable came from one of the EU's 27 member countries. The EU member countries are Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom.

Seek Local, Seasonal Produce

It might not always be practical to check the food label of every item in the grocery store. The easiest way to avoid buying produce imported from the European Union is to purchase locally grown, seasonal produce. This might mean dietary adjustments, but it is a sure way to avoid the purchase of foreign-grown produce.

Tags: avoid buying, country origin, European Union, Fresh Produce, Fresh Produce From, from member, from member countries

Cornmeal Nutrition

Cornmeal is a type of flour found in corn bread and corn tortillas. Without realizing it, many are giving their bodies a nutritional boost. Cornmeal has specific nutritional facts that could make it an important asset to your diet.

Serving

There are multiple ways to define a serving of cornmeal. The USDA defines one serving as 1 cup (122g) of whole-grain, yellow cornmeal.

Calories

One cup of cornmeal has 442 calories. This may seem like a lot, but in perspective, this can be friendly to your diet. Most will not eat a full cup of cornmeal in one sitting.

Fat

Every serving of cornmeal has 4g of fat. Of this, 1g is saturated fat. Cornmeal also has 1,938 mf of omega-6 fatty acids.

Dietary Fiber

Dietary fiber is important for digestion regulation and lower cholesterol. Cornmeal is an excellent source of dietary fiber. It has 9g, or 36 percent, of your daily recommended amount of dietary fiber.

Iron

Iron is an important component of a diet, as it helps to move oxygen to various parts of the body. Cornmeal is a good source of iron, with 23 percent of your daily value.

Tags: percent your, percent your daily, serving cornmeal, your daily, your diet

Make Beef Jerky In The Oven

Make Beef Jerky in the Oven

Beef Jerky is a fun treat you can enjoy just about anywhere. You can eat it at home. You can eat it while camping. You can eat it on a picnic or for a snack at work. You can purchase beef jerky in almost any convenience or grocery store. The homemade kind, however, is cheaper and much more delicious. No, you don't have to have a dehydrator to enjoy homemade beef jerky. It can actually be cooked right in your oven. While the preparation takes a bit of time, the reward is yummy. Here are the steps you can take to make beef jerky in your own home oven. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Purchase a beef flank steak. It is all lean, red meat, with straight grains. This will make it much easier to cut and there will be no waste.

2. Lay meat and a 6-inch knife flat on a cutting board. You will be cutting the meat in half to make it thinner. With the knife on the side closest to your body, and the blade facing away from your body, begin cutting the meat in half. The knife handle should remain flat on the cutting board the entire time. When it is cut, separate the two pieces and cut the top again until it is 1/4 to 1/8 inch thick.

3. Cut the meat lengthwise into 1-inch strips. Make sure to cut with the grain.

4. Check the store bought seasoning and cure mix directions to determine how much seasoning you will need for each pound of meat. Then, weigh your meat and add the correct amount of seasoning and cure mix.

5. Place your seasoned beef into a large plastic zip-sealed bag. Let it sit over night in the refrigerator while it cures.

6. Hang meat strips from toothpicks on your oven rack and cook at 200 degrees for 1 hour and 20 minutes.

7. Enhance your beef jerky's flavor by putting it into a fresh zipper-sealed bag when it is still hot. Let it sit there for an hour before eating.

Tags: beef jerky, beef jerky, Beef Jerky, Beef Jerky Oven, cutting board, cutting meat, cutting meat half

Make A Drink Card

Whether you're serving soda or cocktails, drink cards make tracking consumption easy.

Cruise ships have them. So do many coffee shops. Drink cards are an easy way to promote your cafe, restaurant or other business. Some cards give consumers a free drink after a certain number of purchases. Others are prepaid so users don't have to carry cash. Custom design a unique card, picking any form of validation: punch, stamp or sticker.

Instructions

1. Decide on the size of the card you will produce, keeping in mind the way the card will be used and the validation method you prefer. If your drink card is to be purchased up front and given to kids to redeem for soft drinks at a carnival, for example, make it sizable (e.g., 5 inches x 7 inches). Cards that will be carried by adults should fit into a standard wallet and be approximately the size of a credit card.

2. On your computer's word-processing or design program, create a new, two-sided document sized to your desired drink card specs. Import background art if you're doing a large card; balloons suggesting a carnival or cocktail glasses indicating redemption for alcohol are two good ways to identify the card. Avoid complex patterns if your drink card is wallet sized, and leave the reverse side of the card blank.

3. Design the card's face. Create or drag a text box over the background. Position it in the center of the card field. Type in the name of the promotion or event (Jesse's Frequent Sipper Club; Annual Village Carnival Drink Card) into the box. Create a line beneath the copy on which the name of the person using or purchasing the drink card can add his name.

4. Create or drag a small box beneath the large one and add a frame so the box will appear on the card. Type "Good for one drink" or similar wording into the center of the small box and duplicate it to meet your guidelines for the number of drinks the card carrier must consume before redeeming or filling the card. Make the box big enough to accommodate a hole punch if this is your method of tallying drinks.

5. Use the second side of the drink card to type in "Rules and Conditions of Use." Include specifics like an expiration date and language prohibiting anyone but the person whose name appears on the card from using it. Add a legal disclaimer if the card is good for alcohol to protect you, your business or the event from liability issues should the card be used by others.

6. Print both sides of the drink cards on thick, coated card stock. Trim them to size using a paper cutter. Record the number of cards produced so you can account for them when the promotion or event ends. Run an analysis at the end of your drink card campaign to see if it was successful.

Tags: drink card, your drink, your drink card, card will, Create drag

The Chemistry Of Spices In Foods

Cinnamon enhances food with its aromatic and health-promoting qualities.

Spices impart color and taste, in addition to adding aroma to foods. In some cases, they prevent or modulate medical conditions. Although you often need to consume large amounts of spices to enhance health, daily use of a variety of spices may have a synergistic effect of producing good health. For example, cumin is said to aid memory and hot spices are said to relieve blocked sinuses. Understanding the chemistry of the spices in the food you eat helps you make the best choices about your diet.

Volatile Oils

Volatile oils impart aroma to spices and are classified into groups such as alcohols, aldehydes, amines and esters. In addition, terpenes are a class of chemical compounds that give pepper its spicy aroma. According to a paper edited by V.A. Parasarathy, et al., ginger contains two classifications of compounds: steam-volatile oil (which provides flavor and aroma) and non-steam-volatile oil components called gingerols (which determines strength, or pungency).

Capsaicin-Based Spices

The "heat" in hot peppers comes from capsaicin. It also is present in small quantities in oregano and cilantro. Capsaicin's burning effect comes from a hydrocarbon chain that binds to different spots in the digestive system. For example, some peppers burn immediately upon contacting the tongue while others don't burn until swallowed. The reason that drinking milk soothes the burn and drinking water does not is because capsaicin is soluble in oil but not in water. In large does, capsaicin can destroy nerve cells; it is used in self-defense products such as pepper sprays.

Antioxidant Properties

Antioxidants eliminate free radicals in the body (oxygen fragments from metabolism) before they can damage cells. Ginger, like capsaicin, derives its distinctive flavor from zingerone. Zingerone contains hydrocarbons but also has a carbon-oxygen group (carbonyl) that forms attachments to water molecules, making it soluble in water as well as in oils. Ginger is thought to have antioxidant properties and is used as a skin cream to prevent cancer. The oleoresins (mixture of oil and resin extracted from plants) in rosemary and sage are powerful antioxidants.

Other Medicinal Properties

Tumeric, part of the ginger family, is known for its antiseptic and digestive aid properties. The active compound is curcumin, which is classified as a polyphenol (an alcohol with at least one hydroxyl (OH) group attached). Cinnamon is known to reduce triglycerides (fatty acids), resulting in beneficial effects for those suffering from diabetes, high cholesterol and heart disease. According to the Encyclopedia of Spices, the active ingredient in cinnamon is MHCP (Methyl Hydroxy Chalcone Polymer). It regulates blood glucose levels by its insulin-like effects.

Tags: comes from, soluble water

Store Beans & Rice

Beans and rice store well and cook up well together.

With proper storage, dry beans and rice will retain their flavor and much of their nutrition for years, so they're useful if you want to stock up on food for an emergency. A Brigham Young University study discovered that polished white rice retained its nutrients and flavor as long as 30 years. Brown rice spoils much faster, within a few months. While dry beans lose some quality, a study presented to the Institute of Food Technologists showed most people still found them edible when cooked after up to 30 years in storage. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Inspect dry beans and rice before putting them into storage to make sure you see no insects, insect eggs or holes eaten by insect larvae. Choose only fresh, insect-free beans or rice for long-term storage.

2. Pour the beans and rice separately into air-tight containers, such as large glass jars, #10 commercial cans, Mylar bags or sealable containers made of food-grade plastic.

3. Add a fresh packet of oxygen absorber to each container. Purchase commercial packages of oxygen absorbers from feed stores or survival gear sellers. Select a size that states on the label it will absorb the oxygen from the size of containers that you're using.

4. Seal the containers. Place them in a location that's dark and as cool as possible. Below 40 degrees Fahrenheit is best but a temperature of 70 degrees F. or below will do.

Tags: beans rice

What Is Olive Oil Soap Good For

What is Olive Oil Soap Good For?

Olive oil was one of the first oils used to make soap. Cosmetics made with olive oil help the skin by keeping a moisture balance. Olive oil soap also soothes the skin and absorbs quite easily into it. This soap contains therapeutic qualities for those who suffer from various skin conditions. Soap makers create an olive oil soap called castile soap. It is mostly olive oil, but other oils are added for balance. Does this Spark an idea?

Olive Oil

Olive oil is derived from the fruit of an olive. The leaves and stems are removed and the olives are cleaned. The life span of olive oil is about 5 years. Olives are taken to a mill within one day of picking to keep down the acidity. The olives are then slowly mixed with paste which allows the oil to separate from the fruit. The oil is then pressed and bottled.

How the Soap is Made

Fats and oils are put into the soap with the addition of lye. Lye is neutralized during the soap-making process. Glycerin is then mixed with olive oil, lye, colors and scents. It is also mixed with other moisturizers. Lower grades of olive oil are preferred because it is more cost effective.

Therapeutic Qualities

The moisturizing qualities of olive oil soap are beneficial to people who have skin rashes, allergies, eczema and psoriasis. Rich in vitamins and minerals, olive oil soap also contains protein. Olive oi is rich in Vitamin E. It also contains antioxidants which have healing properties. The soap replaces moisture and elasticity to the skin. High concentrations of olive oil can help cure dandruff. Olive oil soap also reduces buildup from synthetic haircare products.

Soap Combinations

There are several combinations of olive oil soap. Olive oil and chamomile is soothing to the skin. Honey and olive oil are combined to create an extra moisturizing soap. Lavender is added for its antiseptic properties and soothing scent. Olive oil and green tea are used for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory purposes. Verbena can be combined with olive oil soap because of its scent and creaminess.

Making Soap at Home

When making soap at home, remember to use lye. It is an important ingredient to create the chemical process in soap. It must be 100 percent and can be purchased at the hardware store. You also need olive oil and several tools. Some of the tools are a kitchen scale, percolator and a soap mold. There are kits available at craft stores. Brambleberry.com offers an easy to follow lye calculator to ensure you are using the correct amount.

Tags: olive soap, mixed with, soap also, with olive, also contains, from fruit

Make Homemade Broth For Chicken Noodle Soup

You can make chicken broth or stock at home and store it in the freezer for later use. Homemade chicken broth is much more flavorful than store-bought, plus it fills the house with a wonderful aroma while it cooks. It's also a great way to use leftovers. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

Making Homemade Chicken Broth

1. You can make chicken broth with the leftover bones and meat of a whole chicken that you've had for dinner. You can also use whole pieces of chicken, if you want stewed meat for another use. Whichever you use, you want about two pounds of meat and bones for the base of your broth.

2. The vegetables and herbs that you add to your broth will enhance the flavor. If you cook only the chicken and some onion and garlic, you will have a fine, simple broth, but you may want to add other vegetables and herbs for a more complex flavor. Carrots, celery, onion and garlic will make a tasty, traditional broth. You can also use whatever vegetables you have that are about to go bad, just keep in mind that whatever you put in will change the flavor. You can add bell peppers, cabbage, fennel, greens like kale or swiss chard, asparagus, broccoli and so on. Whatever you are using, just chop coarsely so that everything will fit into the pot. There's no need to chop into small pieces, as you will be discarding most of the vegetables once the broth has cooked down.

3. If you have fresh herbs on hand, they are always recommended over the store-bought, dried versions. Use any combination of the following to flavor your broth: rosemary, marjoram, basil, thyme, oregano and bay leaves. If using fresh, about a tablespoon of each, coarsely chopped, is enough, except for the bay, for which you only need one leaf. For dry herbs, reduce to about a teaspoon of each.

4. Place your chicken in a large pot, adding the coarsely chopped vegetables and herbs, then cover with water. Turn the heat on high and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Add salt and pepper to taste.

5. If you are using whole pieces of chicken and want to use the meat for something else, then remove the chicken after 30 minutes or so, checking that the meat is cooked all the way through. Once the chicken pieces have cooled, remove the meat from the bones and return the bones to the pot to continue simmering for another hour and a half. If you are using leftover bones and meat, then just simmer the whole thing for two hours. Taste occasionally and add more salt and pepper if needed.

6. After your broth is finished, turn it off and let it cool for a while. Strain through a collander and discard vegetables and chicken bones. The broth can be kept in the fridge overnight, but if you're not using it immediately, it should be frozen. Pour the finished broth into freezer-safe containers and once it has cooled completely, freeze until needed.

Tags: your broth, vegetables herbs, bones meat, chicken broth, chicken want

Problems Caused By Rice Bran

Rice bran used to be discarded during the rice milling process.

Throughout the globe, over 600 million tons of rice is harvested, providing a staple food for around 70 percent of the world. The outer layer of the rice grain, the bran, is often used medicinally for a variety of health problems. However, the ingestion of rice may can have some negative side effects.

Nutritional Information

When you eat a single ounce of uncooked rice bran, you ingest only 88 calories while receiving 6 g of dietary fiber, which is almost a 25 percent of the recommended daily intake of fiber. While rice bran is high in fat content at nearly 6 g, only about 1 g of that fat total comes from saturated fats. An ounce of rice bran also provides you with about 4 g of protein. Along with being a good source of fiber, rice bran provides you with over 100 antioxidants as well as phyrosterols and tocotrienols, which help fight disease.

Uses

People use rice bran to treat and prevent different diseases and illnesses, either topically or orally. Treat skin rashes caused by an allergic reaction by applying rice bran to the skin. The phyrosterols in rice bran may lower high cholesterol when you consume 85 g of full-fat rice bran during a low-fat diet. Other people eat rice bran to treat diabetes, high blood pressure, alcoholism, obesity and AIDS. The ingestion of this type of bran may also help prevent stomach cancer, colon cancer, kidney stones in people with high levels of calcium and cardiovascular disease. Rice bran might strengthen your immune system, increase your energy levels and improve liver function as well. However, more research is needed to determine if any of these rice bran uses are effective.

Side Effects

WebMD recognizes rice bran as a safe food for the majority of people when eaten or applied to the skin. However, some people suffer side effects. If you add rice bran to your diet, you may experience irregular bowel movements, intestinal gas and stomach discomfort during the first week or two. If used in a bath, rice bran may cause itching and redness. On rare occasions, you may develop a rash due to bran infested with straw itch mites.

Warnings

Pregnancy and breast-feeding women can safely ingest rice bran found in food, but should avoid eating large amounts of bran for medicinal purposes until further research can be conducted on its safety for fetuses and infants. If you suffer from a gastrointestinal condition such as intestinal ulcers or adhesions, do not eat rice bran. The fiber content of the rice bran may obstruct your digestive track. The fiber may also cause choking if you have trouble swallowing. Consult your doctor before taking rice bran if you take any orally medication, since rice bran can alter how the body absorbs the medicine.

Tags: rice bran, rice bran, rice bran, rice bran, bran also, bran treat

Reasons Why We Should Eat Potatoes

Potatoes in their skins are a good source of fiber.

Viewed by some people as a fattening carbohydrate and taken for granted by others, the humble potato is a nutritious, comforting food. There are approximately 100 varieties of potatoes we can eat, which are generally classified as mature, large potatoes or new potatoes which are smaller and less mature. Store potatoes in a cool, dark, dry place to prolong their quality.

Carbohydrates

Potatoes are starchy vegetables and a good source of energy. One medium, peeled and boiled potato provides 33g of carbohydrates, which is 11 percent of the Daily Value. The Daily Value is the amount of a particular nutrient needed each day. Carbohydrates from potatoes quickly enter the bloodstream and replenishes glycogen stores, which is important for runners and other athletes who need to maintain their energy levels.

Vitamins

Potatoes are rich in B vitamins, particularly vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine. One medium baked potato provides 0.5mg of vitamin B6, or 27 percent of the Daily Value. Vitamin B6 is important for energy production, protein synthesis, the formation of new cells and the production of neurotransmitters. One medium baked potato also provides 16.6mg of vitamin C, which is 28 percent of the Daily Value. Vitamin C is needed for the growth and repair of body tissues and wound healing.

Minerals

Potatoes are a good source of minerals, particularly potassium, copper and manganese. One medium, peeled, boiled potato provides 548mg of potassium, or 16 percent of the Daily Value. It also provides 0.3mg of copper, which is 14 percent of the Daily Value and 0.2mg of manganese, which is 12 percent of the Daily Value. Potassium is needed for controlling blood pressure and healthy circulation while copper helps form red blood cells and maintains healthy blood vessels. Manganese assists with metabolism, the formation of connective tissue, calcium absorption and blood sugar regulation.

Fiber

Potatoes are high in fiber, needed for a healthy digestive system, lowering cholesterol and protecting against colon cancer. Most of the fiber in a potato is found in its skin, therefore potatoes should ideally be consumed unpeeled. One large potato baked in its skin contains 7g of fiber, or 26 percent of the Daily Value. Fiber from potatoes may reduce calorie absorption from foods, leading to less body fat and a smaller waistline, reports Liz Applegate from Runner's World.

Versatility

Potatoes have many different textures and flavors depending on how they are prepared and can be used to make a variety of delicious, healthy meals. Eat them baked in their skins with your favorite topping, such as cheese, baked beans or tuna. Roast them in the oven until they are golden brown and serve them alongside your favorite fish and a selection of vegetables. Mash them with olive oil and Greek yogurt for a comforting side dish, or serve them cold in salads at summer barbecues.

Tags: Daily Value, percent Daily, percent Daily Value, which percent, which percent Daily, good source, potato provides

Tell Barcodes Apart

Learn decode mysterious barcodes.

Barcodes are symbols read by machines that store data. There are two types of barcode symbologies: the standard numeric symbols we see on ordinary packaging, which refer to an external database, and data-matrix symbols carrying data encoded in the symbol itself. A board of standardization regulates the physical characteristics of bar-codes and how they are used . Of the two types, numeric symbols are the more common, identifiable primarily by the types of products on which they're found.

Instructions

1. Determine what kind of product the barcode is on. Retail bar-codes are the most common. Retail goods in America and Canada have a UPC symbol, while other countries in the world have their own retail symbol. Books contain another kind of symbol called a Bookland: two sets of bar lines, one next to the other, and a numeric code. Postal materials are encoded with a series of tall and short lines called a Postnet, used to identify parts of the address and the zip code.

2. Take note of the product's country of origin. Just as America and Canada has a UPC symbol, Japan has their own version called a JAN. An EAN is used in Europe and the rest of the world. Each retail symbol has numeric code beneath the bars.

3. Observe the physical characteristics of the barcode. UPC symbols, for instance, have two notches cut out at the bottom where the numeric code appears, containing five digits apiece. EAN and JAN have six digits apiece. A Bookland has two distinct blocks of lines with a numeric code at the bottom of the first block and a supplemental code at the top of the second block. A Postnet code is a long series of tall and short lines with no numeric code. Extremely dense symbols that resemble a crossword puzzle or honeycomb are called data-matrix symbols. These symbols are actually PDFs, portable data files, because they do not refer to an outside database, but have a considerable amount of data encoded directly in the symbol.

4. Notice the symbols that have no numeric or alphanumeric code listed. A symbol called Code 39, for example, is just a tall block of thick and thin lines that only an electronic reader can decipher. Another example is Code 128, similar to the Code 39 symbol, but this one is a short block of lines and spaces whose thick lines are much more prominent. Both symbols are used for inventory and tracking in the shipping industry.

5. Identify the start and stop bars of the symbol. On Code 39, all blocks begin and end with the same sequence of lines and spaces. The first five lines and spaces match the last five lines and spaces. Code 128 is further broken down into Code 128-A, -B and -C, determined by the start bars at the left of the symbol.

Tags: numeric code, lines spaces, America Canada, data encoded, data-matrix symbols, digits apiece

Packaging Ideas For Spice Blends

Jars aren't the only way to package spices.

Spice racks are a tool to organize spices, but not everyone has the budget or space for a spice rack. That's okay; a little creativity and ingenuity helps you organize your own spices. Once you have them organized, they will be at your fingertips to use on a regular basis and add a little more flavor to your menu. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Airtight Bags

Save space in your cabinets by placing your spices in plastic bags that have an airtight seal. The airtight seal keeps the spices fresh. The bags can be labeled using masking tape with the spice written on it. Include the date the spice was purchased on the tape, as well, so you can determine how fresh the spice is in the bag. These bags can be placed in a drawer or cabinet and packed tightly together, taking up less spice than bottles or jars.

Baby Food Jars

If you have an infant or know someone who has one, ask for their used baby food jars, as they can store spice blends. Put the spices in the jars and label them with the name of the blend and date. These jars can be stored in a cabinet or on a counter.

Plastic Storage Containers

Plastic storage containers that have an airtight seal can be used to store your spice blends and keep them fresh. If you create a blend to use as a rub on steak, poultry or seafood, place the unused rub in the plastic container and label it with the name of the blend and the date it was created. Place the container in a cabinet and use the spice again when needed.

Used Beer Bottles

Clean out a used beer bottle and use it as a container to hold your spice blends for meat and vegetables. The lid of the bottle should be attached securely and holes punched in the top of the lid, to use the bottle as a spice blend shaker. Use a variety of different types of beer or soda bottles for shakers and display them on the table as decorative items while storing spices.

Tags: airtight seal, blend date, have airtight, have airtight seal, name blend

Homemade Lowfat Bland Diet For A Dog With Pancreatitis

Pancreatitis in dogs results from sudden inflammation of the pancreas. Attacks can be mild or severe, and a low-fat diet is recommended, along with other treatments such as antibiotics. A low-fat or bland diet helps to rest the pancreas and keeps it from being irritated by food. Watch for abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite and lethargy while your dog is on this low-fat diet, as those symptoms could indicate worsening of the condition. Most dogs will recover from pancreatitis and will only require a low-fat bland diet for a short amount of time.

Low-Fat Protein

Low-fat protein for dogs with pancreatitis can include boneless and skinless chicken breast, white turkey meat, venison, lamb and hamburger meat. Hamburger meat can be purchased 96 percent lean, which will have the least amount of fat. Drain the hamburger after cooking to get rid of as much fat as possible. Venison is also good for a low-fat diet as well, as deer meat is considered leaner than beef.

Cook meat fully (chicken and hamburger should not be pink) and remove all bones.

Bland Diet Ingredients

Starch comes from white rice, brown rice and potatoes. Peel and petite dice potatoes to make them easier to chew. Rice should be fully cooked, as well as vegetables such as peas and carrots. Frozen bags of peas and carrots can be fully cooked and used for a bland diet for dogs.

Mixing Ideas and Feeding

Combine protein with cooked rice and vegetables in a blender, and blend until smooth. Ask the dog's veterinarian if you can use any gravy over top of the food to make it more appealing. Some dogs will eat without gravy or with a spoonful of fat free cottage cheese mixed in.

The veterinarian will give specific instructions on how often your dog should be fed, depending on the dog's weight and severity of pancreatitis. In the beginning, it may be recommended to feed the dog one to two spoonfuls of bland diet every two hours. Increasing the diet amounts should only come after the dog responds well, does not throw up, or its stomach is not upset by food.

Warning

Dogs with pancreatitis and on a low-fat diet should not be fed table scraps. Do not add oils, butter or seasoning to your dog's bland diet.

Tags: low-fat diet, bland diet, bland diet, dogs will, fully cooked, low-fat bland, low-fat bland diet

Types Of Pinto Beans

Types of Pinto Beans

Served with rice and in Mexican cuisine, pinto beans are a member of the kidney bean family. This legume is an excellent source of cholesterol-lowering fiber. Available year-round and purchased dried, canned, mashed and refried or in bulk, pinto beans have an earthy flavor and solid texture. Enjoy pinto beans in chili, soups and stews. Blend beans with seasonings as a dip or serve alongside Mexican rice and enchiladas or tacos. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Geography

Originally, pinto beans were cultivated in Central and South America. The beans made their way to Mexico and across the United States. Manufacturers and suppliers are also in Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Ethiopia, India, South Africa, Spain and the United Kingdom.

Types

Varieties of pinto beans include Álava, Burke, Buster, Grand Mesa, Kodiak, Maverick, Othello and Sierra.

Identification

Medium-sized and oval in shape, pinto beans can be recognized by their reddish speckles atop a beige background. When cooked, all the spotting disappears to leave behind a pinkish bean.

Benefits

Combined with rice, pinto beans provide a complete protein. The beans are a good source of thiamine and pyridoxine, both B vitamins. They also contain essential minerals such as iron, magnesium, potassium and selenium.

Considerations

When purchasing in bulk, make certain that the bin is covered. Look for whole beans that have not been cracked or damaged. When purchasing canned pinto beans, ensure they do not contain additives and salt for an equally healthy option.

Fun Facts

"Chile and frijol" (pepper and pinto bean) was adopted in 1965 by New Mexico as the official state vegetable. Dove Creek, Colorado, is renowned as the "Pinto Bean Capital of the World."

Tags: pinto beans, pinto beans, Types Pinto, Types Pinto Beans, When purchasing, with rice

Buy Groceries For A Family Of Five On $50 A Week

According to Good Housekeeping, fresh in-season produce is cheaper than out-of-season produce (Source 3).

Grocery shopping does not have to be a dreaded chore. Families can make the most out of a $50 grocery budget with careful planning. If you feel strapped for cash at the end of the month, then you should consider modifying your grocery list by identifying what your family needs, versus what your family wants. After you take inventory of your family's needs, then it's time to consider where and shop for groceries.

Instructions

1. Write down a seven-day meal menu and include portion sizes, as this will help you determine how much of each food item to buy. If you are preparing three meals a day for seven days, you will need to plan for 21 meals a week, which means that each meal should cost approximately $2.38. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) suggests buying in bulk may be cheaper than buying individual items.

2. Download coupons from your local supermarket's website. Sign up for additional coupons and free samples at such sites as Coupons.com and Couponmom.com. Supermarket circulars and the Sunday newspaper also include deals and promotions. Plan your menus for the week around the best bargains on the items your family enjoys.

3. Visit the local farmers market. These public markets support area farmers by offering them a means of selling their goods directly to the general population. Farmers markets typically offer fresh produce, spices, grains, eggs, fish, meat and cheese at discounted prices. The WIC Farmers Market Nutrition Program offered by the USDA in 45 states provides supplemental food and nutrition education at no cost to certain low-income families.

4. Shop at discount grocery stores such as Aldi's, Safeway and Save-A-Lot. Many of these stores offer customer loyalty programs such as shopping clubs, which include more promotions and incentives.

Tags: your family, cheaper than, family needs, what your, what your family

Grants For School Garden Projects

School gardening projects result in healthy food.

Growing a school garden offers students academic benefits, physical exercise and the opportunity to eat and share healthy food. Research suggests that children who garden as part of a school project develop better eating habits and greater appreciation for fruits and vegetables. Grants for school garden projects help offset costs of soil, plants, materials and tools to establish and maintain a garden.

National Education Association

The National Education Association began a partnership with Target in April 2010 to award grants to educators offering creative activities in green living and environmentalism. Proposed activities may include starting a school garden, as long as the project involves educational activities including hands-on gardening and environmental conservation. Applicants must pre-certify as a practicing teacher or education support professional currently employed at an accredited school located in the United States.

National Retailers

Several national retail stores, such as Lowe's and Home Depot, offer grant opportunities to schools and educational professionals. Kids Gardening lists several additional retailer sponsored grant opportunities awarded by the National Gardening Association. Application for grant funds requires submitting a proposal with details on the project, the expected benefits and a project budget.

Local Organizations

Within your community, local organizations may offer funding through small grants for projects dedicated to beautification and the environment or to helping people in need. Finding local opportunities for funding school garden projects requires research and talking with organizations. Begin searching for local organizations that offer grants to schools for garden projects at the Chamber of Commerce, city hall, county agricultural extension programs, utility service providers or fraternal organizations. Parents of students may know of grant opportunities offered by their employers.

Reviewing Opportunities

Before writing a project proposal, carefully review the qualifications or eligibility requirements listed by the grantor. For example, in searching government grants for gardening, an individual school's eligibility ties to the state education agency for some grants. Foundation grants often require certification as a 501(c)(3) or nonprofit organization. When applying for a garden project grant from a local organization, personal contact often yields valuable information on the organization's priorities or desired approach to training or services.

Tags: school garden, garden projects, grant opportunities, Education Association, healthy food, local organizations, National Education

Use Coupons For Savings

Use coupons on the products you use the most.

Balancing the family budget can be very difficult, especially in hard economic times. Using coupons at the grocery store is one way to save money on getting things you use every week. Printable grocery coupons can save a large amount of money on your monthly grocery bills if you follow several key steps.

Instructions

1. Use double coupons for extra savings. But, the University of Illinois Extension service warns to know the prices on double coupon products because some stores charge more on their double coupon offers.

2. Combine your manufacturer's coupons with other store coupons. Many stores allow their coupons to be used with printable online coupons from the manufacturer.

3. Subscribe to coupon resources through email and the Internet. You can find many name brand coupons by signing up with manufacturer websites.There are also websites and blogs dedicated to posting the best deals of the week for stores and coupons.

4. Join or form a coupon clubs to maximize the number of coupons you find. People generally use certain coupons and throw the rest away. Trading coupons can help you find things you need and help others in your community find the coupons they need.

5. Get your local newspaper. The majority of coupons can be found in the Sunday paper. Also watch for weekly store ads for sales to combine coupons.

6. Be creative in locating coupons. Ask friends, family or neighbors for their unread newspapers. You may also consider asking your local library or businesses if you can have the coupons from their papers if they don't use them.

7. Take all your coupons with you when you shop, recommends the University of Illinois Extension. Not all sales are advertised and you may be able to combine coupons with the unannounced sales for extra savings once you get to the store.

Tags: coupons with, combine coupons, coupons from, double coupon, extra savings, Illinois Extension, University Illinois

Properties Of Rice Bran Oil

Rice bran oil has a mild nutty flavor. It can be used for everything from salad dressing to an oil for deep frying. Rice bran oil is versatile and nutritious, making it a healthy addition to every kitchen.

Vitamin E

Rice bran oil is high in the form of vitamin E called tocotrienols. This form of vitamin E is also high in antioxidants.

High Heat

Because rice bran oil has a low linolenic acid level, it is stable at high temperatures. The molecules in the oil do not break down under normal cooking temperatures, making it ideal for high-temperature cooking.

Calories

One tablespoon of rice bran oil contains 120 calories. It has 15 grams of fat and three grams of saturated fat according to the USDA.

Cholesterol

A study conducted by scientists at the University of Rochester in 1996 found that rice bran oil was effective in lowering cholesterol in rats.

Prevention

The same University of Rochester study found evidence that using rice bran oil over a long period of time might help to prevent cancer and some infections.

Tags: form vitamin, rice bran, Rice bran, University Rochester

Paint Your Nails Organically

To avoid exposing yourself to harmful chemicals, choose organic nail polish.

Painting your nails organically can be relatively easy, if you have the right organic beauty products. Organic nail care products do not contain harmful chemicals that could hurt you, or your baby, if you are expecting. Organic nail care products are becoming more and more popular and easier to find, both in stores and online. You can still find great colors and products, even when the ingredients are fully natural and organic. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Lay newspaper or paper towels on your work surface, to prevent spills and messes.

2. Use organic nail polish remover to clean old nail polish from your fingernails and toenails.

3. Paint a coat of organic nail polish in your favorite color, on your nails. To get the best results, be patient.

4. Let your nails dry completely.

5. Paint a second coat of the same color.

6. Allow the second coat to dry completely.

Tags: nail polish, organic nail, organic nail polish, your nails, care products, completely Paint

What Is Oaxacan Art

What Is Oaxacan Art?

Oaxacan art is distinctive even apart from other Mexican folk art, which is recognizable in its own rite. It is a mixture of the indigenous culture and the Spanish influence from the the 1500s. Day of the Dead and Zapotec imagery and icons are mixed with Catholic icons. The colors used are vibrant and exciting, making it even more interesting.

Identification

The art of Oaxaca is very indicative of the mountainous indigenous culture of the state. There is lots of color used in Oaxacan art as well as very distinct representations of animals, Catholic representations, iconic representations of figures like Frida Kahlo and Zapotec themes. Ceramics, woodcarvings and textiles are all examples of Oaxacan art, which are both indigenous and also influenced by Spanish colonization in the 1500s.

Geography

Oaxaca is located in southern Mexico at the Sierra Madre Oriental and the Sierra Madre del Sur mountain ranges. It is one out of 31 states in Mexico. Bordering states are Puebla to its northwest, Veracruz to its north, Chiapas to its east and Guerrero to its west. The Pacific Ocean is along its southern border.

Ceramics

Oaxaca has black clay, also known as barro negro. Because of this, a lot of the pottery and ceramics are black and then painted with different colors on top. Along with pottery, many terracotta figurines are also created. Common figures created are of the Virgin Mary, Frida Kahlo, Day of the Dead and Zapotec themed. These are painted with lots of different vibrant colors. Green pottery is another type of ceramic. It uses a glaze that is green, originally used by the Spanish. These pieces are used for cooking or serving.

Woodcarvings

Oaxacan woodcarvings are called Alebrijes, which is a term that was first used by Pedro Linares to describe his paper maché creations. They are usually carved into animal shapes. Copalillo wood is the most commonly used wood to create these carvings. Tzomplantle and cedar are also used. A machete is used to create the rough basic form of the carving. After that, smaller knives, blades and other precision tools are used for more detail in the carving. After the carving is done, it is placed in the sun to dry. After the carving is completely dry, it is sanded down. Then gasoline or similar liquid is used to protect against insects. This is when the painting begins. These paintings can be quite colorful and lively using vibrant pigments. They sometimes have more realistic colors or wild colors that are not seen in real life at all.

Textiles

Oaxacan textiles are created for huipal and rebozo, as well as blankets and rugs. Huipal is a traditional blouse or dress. Rebozo are rectangular garments usually worn as scarves or shawls. Many of the colors are created by natural plants, fruits and an insect. That insect is the cochineal, a parasite of the prickly pear (nochextli). After the Spanish presence in the 1500s, lots of the imagery that is woven into Oaxacan textures are Catholic imagery. Also patterns of colors and textures are seen.

Tags: After carving, carving After, Dead Zapotec, Frida Kahlo, indigenous culture, painted with

Virtual Field Trip List

Virtual field trips can take students around the world.

According to Kim Foley, author of "The Big Pocket Guide to Using and Creating Virtual Field Trips," a virtual field trip is a collection of web pages (often chosen by educators) arranged in a guided tour that is accessed via the Internet. Educators stress the importance of choosing virtual field trips carefully and connecting them to curricula. Virtual field trips allow students to see and hear things outside the classroom without the logistics and expense of real field trips. Local school systems and state education departments sometimes provide tools allowing educators to create their own virtual field trips.

The Louvre Museum Virtual Tours

The Louvre Museum’s virtual tours include eight curatorial departments and the museum’s architecture. The Medieval Louvre tour includes the moat and fortress. The virtual tours provide panoramic views that visitors control using the computer mouse.

The Louvre Museum

louvre.fr

Secrets of Easter Island

The "Secrets of Easter Island" virtual field trip, a NOVA Online Adventure sponsored by PBS, includes photographs, brief narratives and interactive games. The site also includes history lessons about Easter Island and personal accounts from visitors.

Public Broadcasting System

www.pbs.org

The Virtual Cave

The Virtual Cave field trip, provided by Good Earth Graphics, is a collection of underground photographs from caves around the world. The site organizes the photographs into four types of caves and provides information about the caves, including the history of the caves and conservation efforts.

Good Earth Graphics

goodearthgraphics.com

Tags: field trips, virtual field, Easter Island, field trip, around world, Earth Graphics

Make Biblical Spikenard Oil

Modern aromatherapy experts extol the value of spikenard oil for emotional healing. Many ancient cultures also esteemed spikenard. The Song of Solomon mentions the oil, and Mary of Bethany (also known as Mary Magdalene) uses it to anoint the feet of Jesus. It has long been part of the ayurvedic healing and medicinal tradition of India; it was used as a beauty aid by wealthy Roman Empire women and seen as a mark of wealth and honor in ancient Egypt. Its religious and spiritual connotations make it a much sought-after commodity for many worshipers. You can create a homemade version of the scent

Instructions

1. Impart scent of spikenard rhizomes, or roots, into your carrier oil. You can place the roots in a sealed plastic bag and slightly bruise them using your mallet. Then transfer the bruised roots in a mason jar containing your carrier oil. Let the roots release their odor into the oil over the course of several days, keeping the jar in a moderate-temperature dry environment, shaking occasionally to help the roots completely release their scent..

2. Separate the roots from the oil. Remove the lid from the jar containing the oil and roots and place cheesecloth over its mouth. Pour the oil into your second jar.

3. Transfer your scented oil into smaller bottles using a funnel.

Tags: into your, release their, your carrier

Make Homemade Chicken Broth Easy Recipe

Soup stocks are wonderfully healthy and a comfort food on a cold day. According to a recent article on WebMD, chicken soup can help cure the common cold! Homemade soups are always healthier and taste better than something out of a can, so follow these simple tips to make sure you have chicken broth on hand. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Place the chicken bones, spare meat, vegetable scraps, herbs and spices into a stockpot. Add enough cold water to cover the vegetables and bones. Simmer for approximately 4 hours.

2. Foam will form on the surface of the chicken broth as it simmers. Use a spoon, or ladle, to skim it off. Strain the bones and vegetable scraps from the chicken broth and discard them. Salt and pepper to your liking.

3. To use your broth - Use immediately as a base for soup, or you can freeze it and begin making your soup on another day. If you freeze the chicken broth, leave a bit of space in the top of the container for expansion. It is a good idea to freeze the broth into the portion size that works best for you. A single cup of broth can be warmed on a cold day for an instant meal. Tossing in leftover meat and vegetables from the refrigerator creates a wonderful meal. Adding cream, pureed vegetables, starch, or flour can thicken chicken broth.

Tags: chicken broth, vegetable scraps

Make Crunchy Dog Food

Make Crunchy Dog Food

Making your own dog food is a good way to make sure your dog is getting quality proteins. Commercial dog food is usually made with animal by-products instead of real meat, and can be loaded with preservatives and other additives. This recipe creates store-like kibble that aims to meet most of the dog's nutritional needs. The food should still be supplemented with vitamins and minerals, as well as other kinds of foods to ensure the best nutrition.

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 250 degrees F. Cook the brown rice per package instructions. You want 1 cup of cooked rice, not dry rice.

2. Steam the vegetables. While the vegetables are steaming and the rice is cooking, cook the meat of your choice using the method of your choice. Allow everything to cool to room temperature.

3. Process the meat, vegetables, rice, eggs and whole wheat flour in a food processor. You do not want a puree, just a rough, thick, pate-like mix.

4. Add 2 cups of broth to a bowl. Combine all remaining ingredients in the bowl and mix well. Add the processed mixture into the bowl and combine. Use your hands to thoroughly combine all ingredients until it has a cookie dough consistency. If it is too thin, add a little more flour. If it is too thick, add more broth, a few tablespoons at a time. You will likely need to use the remaining cup of broth.

5. Use a greased mini melon baller or small measuring spoon to scoop the mixture into small balls. Make the balls the appropriate size for your dog's mouth. Place them on a baking sheet lined with waxed paper and bake at 250 degrees F for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until crunchy.

Tags: Crunchy Food, Make Crunchy, Make Crunchy Food, mixture into, your choice

Make Healthy Crab Cakes

Crab cakes are a tasty appetizer, but they can be high in fat and calories. By adapting the recipe to bake your crab cakes in a muffin tin, you can avoid the frying that makes traditional recipes so unhealthy. The muffin tin will help these cakes to keep their shape as they cook. If you cannot find real crab meat, imitation crab can also be used. These can be made 48 hours ahead and served cold or reheated. See tip. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Heat the oven to 450 degrees. Prepare the muffin tin by spraying the cups with cooking spray.

2. Stir all of the ingredients together in bowl to combine.

3. Divide the batter into six even portions. Place one into each of the sprayed muffin cups.

4. Bake the crab cakes in the oven at 450 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes or until golden brown. Let cool 10 minutes before serving with lemon, if desired. You can also serve these cold.

Tags: crab cakes, oven degrees

Fundraise By Making A Cookbook

Fundraising is something that many organizations have to do regularly to support their cause or program. Churches, schools, businesses, children's hospitals and sometimes even family reunions are paid for with money fundraised by making a cookbook. It takes some work, but can be very rewarding.

Instructions

1. Appoint a coordinator or director to be in charge of making the cookbook project. Distribute a list of guidelines for the recipes to be submitted and a time frame for completion.

2. Sort and organize the recipes received into like categories such as appetizers, salads, breads, vegetables, main dishes and desserts. Should 4 or 5 people all submit the same recipe, then include the recipe once and list all the names who submitted the recipe. Actually read the recipes to make sure that they make sense. If you feel an ingredient was omitted, contact the person that submitted it for correction.

3. Create an introduction for the cookbook. This can be an overview or history of the organization that is making the cookbook, a projection of how the fundraised monies will be used for this organization or maybe even a thank you to the contributors for the recipes included in the cookbook. Also, create the table of contents for the cookbook. In addition, design a cover for the cookbook. This could be a photograph representing the organization, a drawing or a printed cover.

4. Save and compile all your recipes, introductions, table of contents and cover design into a computer file and compact disc. Be sure to have back up copies of everything. Print several sample copies of the cookbook and distribute to persons who have been involved to do a review and edit the cookbook for errors. Make all changes, resave and update all computer file copies and compact discs.

5. Use a cookbook-making program to process, compile and print your cookbook. Another option for more detailed cookbooks is to submit a copy of your compact disc to a professional printer. Make sure that you obtained quotes from several printers before using this option.

6. Sell your cookbooks. The price to sell your cookbooks needs to be enough to reimburse all the expenses in making the cookbook and a profit margin on each cookbook. Use members of your organization to sell the cookbooks, advertise in local papers and sell through Internet sites as well.

Tags: making cookbook, compact disc, computer file, cookbook This, sure that