What's Your Healthy Eating For 2026?

 In Wednesday's New York Times Food , food critic Pete Wells wrote about how he gave up sugar in his article about weight loss. Many of us look to a new year to restart our eating habits.Its could be more leafy greens. Goodbye to coffee and chocolate.

What will you do to eat better in the New Year? I feel I need to cut down on soda  - diet and regular. Everyone says I drink too much anyway and   I need to focus on more  in taking water and teas. I am trying to whittle down a three can  of diet soda a day habit to two and then to one. Tea is good anyway ,especially iced. I try to bring a Stanley cup of it wherever I drive.

So, what are you going to reform in this new year? Cut down on cold cuts? Maybe cut back on fast food? Let us know and good luck with it.

Thanksgiving Advice Just Breathe

 The next two days will resemble a baking contest and the popular comedy"The Bear" . The best advice is to just breathe. Home chefs, you got this. Just take time to give yourself some culinary me tine.

List making helps. f you haven't;t bought anything, tomorrow is the day to do it. Try to find shortcuts to ease the cooking, especially if you're busy at work. Get a simple turkey breast  if  there's just two . It saves on having a ton of left overs. Besides the breast meat is the most tender anyway. Get jarred gravy and stove top stuffing too. This saves on a lot of work. As for mashed potatoes, instant is your best bet. Frozen Brussels sprouts or green beans can be your side. Most big supermarkets like Acme and Lidl sell in store baked pies and rolls. Buy these. If you're planning a bigger meal, then ask for help. Guests love to come early and help out in the kitchen. It's a great way to catch up and chat instead of trying to talk during the whirlwind of putting food on the table and the cacaphony of other guests.The same goes for pie baking. It's a fun way to gossip and share a coffee while rolling out dough and coring apples.You and your fellow bakers can also go in on the costs too if they're also part of the Thanksgiving guest list.

As for yourself - relax. It's so popular  (and traditional) to order a pizza the night before the big day. Consider it tomorrow. Hot slices are always a big hit with the kids too. Chinese food won;t go amiss either. Save your energy for the next day. Take a relaxing bath or drink and herbal tea to ensure a good night''s sleep. No one can function or a limited amount of shut eye. As for Thanksgiving morning, don;t go crazy and create a hearty breakfast or brunch. Keep it simple.There's cereal and instant oatmeal to tide the family over. If you have to cook something hot, stick to any kind of eggs and bacon, whether real or plant based. Check your lists as to what needs to be done first.  Is the bread torn for stuffing along with the celery being washed and cut for it? Again when it's time to start prep, ask for as much help as you can,  Are the pots and pan ready to go ? It's time to take the turkey out of the fridge and getting it ready for the oven. Keep in mind that holidays today are not the formal affairs of the past yet if you want to pamper yourself with  make up and fancy dress, then do so.It's a fun  break from kitchen duty. Grab a glass of wine but don;t go overboard. No one needs a tipsy cook.

It may be Thanksgiving with non stop cooking and breaking but it's also a time to enjoy family, friends and food. Take it easy. Take care of yourself. It'll ensure a less crazy ,less hectic cooking day.

Your Holiday Happy Drink

 It's that time of year when nerves are frazzled and we all need a good sip of something. What's yours? is it a glass of your favorite Cabernet to settle your nerves. A good cup of Earl Gray? Or those big sundae like peppermint mocha iced coffee, complete with a blob of whipped cream and chocolate syrup drizzled on top?

Let us know what keeps you sane during these days leading up to Christmas.

Foods To Thaw You Out

 The temps around the country have been monumnetally cold. Some areas like New england have even reached minus numbers. Wit this brings hypothermia and frostbite. Don;t panic with these. There are foods that hedlp for a  good thaw.]

What is hypothermia and is it connected to frostbite? Hypothermia is a condition that happens during very cold temps although it could even happen in forty degree Farenheit weather. it starts when a person becomes wet either from sweat, rain, sleet or snow.A person can become confused and exhausted with uncoordinated hand movements and slurred speech. Frostbite can happen with it.This is where body parts freeze due  to frigid temps and the  affected areas turn red. The skin could also change color from a healthy pink to a whitihs or gteyish yellow. There is also a firmness to the flesh as well. If both are extreme then head to your local hospital's ER where both can be treated right away. If it's relatively mild then the first thing to do is remove the person's wet clothes and then get them warm. frostbite victims should not be walking. DO NOT place the person by a fireplace, radiator, heat lamp or stove for warming. Heating pads are out too. They cause more harm than good. Also do not rub or massage frostbitten areas either. Again this can cause more problems. Wrap the person in a dryer warmed beach towel or blanket.

What about a warming drink. Alcohol is an absolute taboo!!! It could even cause hypothermia surpringly. What happens is that it may temporarily provide a feeling of heat and warmth thanks to explanding blood vessel. That feeling passes quickly when blood vessles constrict back to their normal size. Do have a big cup of hot cocoa on the ready. This will not only warm the affected person but also ptovide a much needed dose of sugar.It's also a comfort food which will be welcomed too. You can also try sweetened  decaf hot teas and coffees. If they're hungry then a cup of hot soup is necessary. It's easy to open up a can and microwave it.  What about just plain water? You could boil it and have the person drink it like any other hot drink.If they're hungry then break out the chocolate.It's an energy rich food that raises body temps as well as providing a burst of energy There are foods to eat during these wintry times to stave off hypothermia too. Eat more bananas, whether plain or as dessert with chocolate syrup. As bad as it's supposed to be for you a little red meat is good ofr these frosty times. Have a steak or hamburger every now and then. Sweet potatoes and butternut squash also raise body temps too. Think of them mashed or cut into wedges and air fried for a tasty side or snack. 

Frosty times bring about serious problems. Mild cases of hypothermia and frostbite can be treated with a good hot cup. Also eat temperature raising foods too. Keep yourself and your bisy warm and toasty when those arctic  temp aarive.

A Brave New World

 As much as we need our gall bladders , we actually don't need them. Humans , surprisingly can live without them.There will changes to diet but life can continue on without thus tiny organ.

I'm about to find out how much I can live without this yellowish green little pear on Wednesday when I have it removed. A lot has changed since my grandfather's day when he had his (just two months before I was born). Gallbladder removal  usually required a week long hospital stay after a five inch incision was made in the upper right abdomen. Not anymore. The operation is now known as a "procedure" and treated much the same way as a tooth extraction (this is where I shake my head)It's laparoscopic and will only take an hour and a half.. A small video camera is in placed  in one of the four incisions in the upper right quadrant .Special, small surgical instruments are also inserted to sever the bile ducts. These are reattached to one leading into the upper intestine. You usually (and I'm hoping to go home) leave after four or five hours in the recovery unit unless something happens such as an infection. Then it's four days of hospital food.I'm hoping for the best, preparing for the worst. I'll be off for a week or two .

When I come back it's discovering and writing about a whole new world. Digestion is tricky at best without a gall bladder.I will have to eat smaller meals more often. Think grazing.This I don't mind.because I do this anyway.  My body won't  be able to process Fried foods such as potato chips and fries are definitely off the table. fried meats like chicken are also a lifelong ban (although I could sneak in a drumstick every now and then).Foods should be baked, steamed or broiled. There should be more fruits and veggies on my plate which is a plus. One,'I'm a big believer of using fresh fruits and veggies whenever the season and, two I do love them. I will have to put a kabosh on cookies and snack cakes (although like the chicken leg,I could sneak in one or two every now and then),Caffeine, whether in soda, coffee or tea is also not allowed. Caffeine increases the amount of stomach acid which in turn makes the stomach empty faster. There could be more gas, sharp pains and bloating. The same is said of chocolate which will be limited to once in a blue moon. My diet will be different but healthier.

This little pear has caused me trouble over the years but I will miss her. This new world is going to be scary and frustrating. As with any new venture.I will do the best I can.

A Need For Comfort

It's a crazy world out there between what's happening in the world and in the weather.It's time for comfort foods and foods that we can de-stress with , whether it's for a meal or a snack. It can be decadent or something relaxing.

Of course one of the best things to have is a cup of herbal tea.Not surprisingly it can help protect the body from stress as well as flood it with antioxidants to also reduce inflammation caused from stress. Chamomile and peppermint are the most recommended and every brand has a version, usually blended with green tea for more flavor. Other herbal blends are made from flowers such as lavender and rose. Lavender is the best for promoting a good night's sleep. Have a hot soothing cup in the evening. What foods can create the same calming effect? Turkey which contains tryptophan which makes you sleepy.It's also right up there with comfort foods ,especially when you have it with your favorite stuffing and homemade gravy. Pair it with green leafy vegetables that also help with calming. These are kale, collard greens, broccoli rabe and mustard greens. They're rich in folates which help the body manufacture neurotransmitters like seratonin and dopamine to regulate moods. Kale is good , both , cooked, crisped or raw. Try it like a spinach salad with bacon and sliced hard boiled eggs.Swiss chard is delicious with a mix of egg and vinegar,  all sauteed in butter.

Of course there are the old reliable comfort foods such as meat loaf and mashed potatoes.Think about making a loaf with ground turkey instead of beef for something different and for all that dopamine. You can still have it with gravy - but turkey gravy along with mashed potatoes. You could serve it with another comfort food Tater Tots. These are also great on their own , especially if you've crisped them up in the air fryer. These only take seventeen to eighteen minutes to cook up but the result is a crunchy on the outside , creamy on the inside bite that works well with different dips.Pizza is another one of those foods that can make us feel happy. Enjoy a meat lover's one from one of the best , Blaze. They also have variations that include  a cauliflower crust and topping with squash and even maple syrup. Of course homemade pizza is a great comfort food too. Everyone's childhood favorite is English muffin pizzas with sauce and cheese bubbling away on the muffin slices. You can also do the same with bagels too. Use the everything ones for a fuller flavor.Another home made comfort are chocolate chip cookies. You can stick with original recipe or toss in walnuts or almonds or sub in the chips with M&M's Have these with a glass of milk,  and a favorite book to get away from the world.

These are times to de-stress and stay inside. Have  a cup of lavender tea to warm up and relax or enjoy a turkey meat loaf They're perfect for an hour or two away from the cold and craziness around us.

Culinary Me Time

 After a few days of cooking and baking for everyone it's now time to take care of ourselves. It's time to either treat yourself to a good meal out or make something just for you. You've spent the last few days working like crazy making sure others eat well.It's time for yourself.

There are so many restaurants that you can visit right now. You can carry on the small shop weekend by visiting your local mom and pop eatery. Go to your favorite pizzeria or Chinese food. Get your  anchovy pizza that you've been craving or try the Drunken Noodle dish you've been wanting. Be adventurous too. Visit those eateries you've been wanting to try but have been held back by fussy or timid family and friends. Many towns and cities have off beat places too that specialize in certain cuisines like French or  Moroccan. Book a table for yourself and enjoy crepes Provencale or a chicken tangine.Bakeries are a must see if you're craving a flaky croissant or big buttery cookie. There are also some great candy stores if you want to feed a chocolate craving. Kilwin's a  homemade candy chain is expanding to towns throughout the US. Visit them if you want to try their caramel apples or hand dipped chocolates. Treat yourself to a box of buttery chocolate dipped caramels or brittle, creamy melt in your mouth fudge or a big piece of nutty chocolate bark. You deserve these goodies after working long hours prepping and cooking.

Indulge yourself at home of you don't want to leave your cozy couch. Let the family head to the movies or the park. Get lost in that book you've been meaning to read, sipping your favorite cup of tea and nibbling on your favorite cookies. If you're still in a baking mood, then go easy with Pillsbury's Slice And Bakes. The company now offers gingerbread, peanut butter and candy cane flavors for  Christmas. Their chocolate chips and sugar cookie slice and bakes are still a good choice and perfect for just having to yourself. You can also make yourself a quick and tasty mug cake. All this is is your favorite mug and a mix. You can make it yourself with just a quarter cup of flour , a quarter cup of sugar and just a tiny eighth of a cup of baking powder. There's no eggs needed, Just add the liquids of canola oil, water and vanilla extract. You can add cocoa for a chocolate treat or chocolate chips and a pinch of brown sugar for a chocolate chip one.Don't wan all that work? Then just use Duncan Hines packets that even now have icing too. Want something more substantial, then indulge in a steak with herbed butter. This is a great dinner for one, Have it on slices of Italian or French bread. Use your air fryer to indulge in stuffed portabellos or fried chicken.

You've worked too hard these past few days. It's time to treat yourself. eat out or stay in with your favorite foods and snacks. You deserve it!!!

A Hot Cup On A Cold Night

 The weather around most of the country is frigid. The nights are even worse. We have to stay in anyway. Why not do it with a good hot cup a sweet treat and a good book. It's a perfect way to while away a blizzard or nor' easter. let it snow. You'll be inside, cozy and warm, a steaming mug by your side, with something sweet to nibble on.

As far as drinks, a nice herbal tea is the perfect cup for right now. There are a lot out there right now. What's the best to drink? Celestial Seasonings has the widest array of choices. One of their most popular is the Sleepytime which has a mix of soothing chamomile, spearmint and lemongrass. If you want something fruitier, then brew up a cup of their wild berry zinger or their new watermelon mint (it seems like an odd combo but it actually works.) Another choice is any Earl Grey tea . This pairs great with any sweet, from a simple pound cake to brownies. Twinings is the second tea company that has so many choices. You can try their black and green teas for your evening warm up or their many herbal teas. They have such interesting combinations as grapefruit and basil along with butter mint. Of course there's coffee too, now very popular thanks to the Keurig coffee maker. Remember to always drink decaf otherwise you'll still be wide awake at midnight and beyond. What's the best decaf? Trader Joe's in house brand tops many lists. It's flavorful and rich, the perfect cup on a frosty night. Another good brand is Volcanica which has coffees from around the world. You could easily buy their Jamaica blend or their Cameroonian one.

Sometimes the perfect drink on a frosty night is the most traditional. This is where hot cocoa comes in. You can easily buy the already mixed kind or make it yourself. One of the more popular is Swiss Miss which comes with or without marshmallows. It's a fun, sweet cup that's warming from head to toe. Land O' Lakes, usually know for their butter, also has ventured into hot chocolate. They have a huge amount of choices, from cinnamon and chocolate to raspberry and chocolate. There's even a white chocolate mix for something entirely different. Yet nothing beats the flavor of an old fashioned made hot cocoa. It starts with a really good hot cocoa powder. Droste is one of the best for this. It produces a rich, Parisian like hot cocoa that's full bodied and layered in taste. You could also use Ghiradelli's or Hershey's too. Add a quarter of a teaspoon of milk to moisten the powder into a paste and then cook the milk over a medium heat. DO not let it boil or it will produce a skin you'll have to skim off. Stir and sweeten to taste. You can  sub in almond, soy, cashew, or oat milk if you want a vegan or healthier version. A splash of mint  or hazelnut  flavoring can also be added. Toss a marshmallow or two or a dollop of whipped cream with grated dark chocolate for a lusher drink. 

This is the perfect weather for a cup of something hot. Make a steaming cup of tea, coffee or hot cocoa. Grab a plate of cookies and settle in. It's time to get cozy!

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Fortifying Yourself

This is the season for colds and sore throats. These can be a real pain , especially if they keep recurring. What to do? Fortify yourself and your system with good foods. Forget comfort bites this winter . It's time to go to strength foods.

After the holidays we need to become serious about citrus fruits. One, they're a refreshing change up from all those sweets and treats and two, they are strength foods, meaning they'll strengthen our immune systems.Citrus fruits such as oranges increase our white blood cells which are used in fighting infections.Even lemons and limes do this as well. Unlike oranges, it's hard to eat both on their own, thanks to their tartness. What you can do is sub in lemon or lime juice for vinegar in vinaigrettes. This makes for a zingy and fun dressing that works for everything from a simple salad to a veggie and fish laden Nicoise. Lemons also can be used to marinate different vegetables , giving them a summery, bright taste. Add a squeeze of lime to guacamole or salsa to elevate flavor. Lemon and lime juice can be added to green and black teas for more taste too. Grapefruit is the mega strength food of all the citrus. It not only boosts immunity but also has antioxidant properties that help fight harmful bacteria and viruses. Again this may be too tart . Drizzle dark honey on top for a tasty breakfast or dessert.

Citrus isn't the only strength food There are veggies that can help fight off colds and sore throats too. Red bell peppers are one, thanks to the infusion of Vitamin C.It's also a rich source of beta carotene which is good for your eyes. Red peppers are versatile. Sliced, they can be added to a salad for some color and sweetness. Cooked, they liven up everything from stir fries to meat loaf. They're also good stuffed with Beyond Meat and onions.Another strength food? Broccoli. Again, the florets are good hot or cold. A side of broccoli with just a lemon and butter sauce is great with chicken breasts or even lam chops. A broccoli salad jazzed up with another immunity booster garlic is a great side with everything from pizza to steak. As for garlic, try to cook a lot with it during these germy times. Use a liberal dose of it when you make homemade sauce . Better yet try that light Italian classic aglia olio, the garlicky oil sauce that's delicious with angel hair  pasta or spaghetti.It can also be drizzled on bruschetta too.If you want a bit more spice but with the same immunity booster, then use ginger, especially if you have a sore throat. Brew ginger tea with freshly cut slices of it to reduce a sore throat 's inflammation.

Get yourself and your immune system fortified by adding strength foods to your diet. You won't be a victim to colds and flu anymore. You not only feel healthy but be healthy too.

Natural Vs Chemical Kitchen Cleaners

Maybe more so than the bathroom, the kitchen is the dirtiest and messiest room in the house. This is the place where oil gets splattered and  mud gets scattered. It's a smelly fridge competing with a smelly sink. Kitchens need constant cleaning - and here is the dilemma - do you go for the safe all natural cleansers, versus the heavy duty super efficient industrial ones.

Everyone wants a clean and sparkling kitchen. Yet who has the time to whip up a natural cleanser when it's easier to go out and buy a bottle? The problem is that many cleaners have a whole host of bad for you chemicals.Any product that boast's it's antibacterial should be given a second glance. It's probably chock full of quarternary ammonium compounds or QUATS. Firstly they help in creating antibiotic resisting bacteria which can be lethal to the very young, very old and the immune challenged .On top of that , they are responsible  for creating asthma. What do you sub in then? Tea tree oil mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar and water can do the trick. Bleach can work too, as with hydrogen peroxide. Just wear old, ratty clothes when you're working with the last two. Bleach can get all over and there is a tendency to wipe our hands on our jeans after we clean (I know do). Even a tiny drop can ruin denim.

Bleach is my go to for cleaning the kitchen sink however I found another natural cleanser that also does the trick.Apple cider vinegar and baking soda  together has been my preference for cleaning stubbornly greasy pans . I thought , well if it works for metal, it could work for porcelain. It did. Use about a quarter of a cup of baking soda over the surface. Add about half a cup of vinegar over the baking soda. Stand back and enjoy the foamy reaction (really the best part of it) and then wipe down with a sponge.The result is the same as the bleach cleaning - a sparkling white and clean surface. Remember that baking soda is also very good at removing tea and coffee stains from cups and mugs.
As far as removing mold from underneath drying racks, I'd go with the bleach. Black mold can be very difficult  and bleach has the power to get rid of it.  You could use vinegar - white works well with an old toothbrush  to scrub it away. That is if you have the time.It can be labor intensive, however.

What's the best cleanser for your kitchen? Natural or chemical? Natural if you have the time to clean. However some of the chemical ones do come in handy when you;re pressed for time. Use whatever works for a clean , sparkling kitchen.

Pereg's New Spices For Summer

One of the best aspects about summer cooking is incorporating herbs to brig out the flavor of any dish. The Pereg Company  has two  new ones - the tangy lemon verbena and the classic dill.

The dill can be used for flavoring fish, namely salmon but also salads. The lemon verbena or luisa can be used alone for tea or for flavoring everything from grilled chicken to cocktails.Personally I like the lemon verbena as a refreshing tea, whether iced or hot.

The dill I had other ideas for - namely a cucumber salad.

The recipe was from a dear family friend, Eunice, who always  made cucumber salad in the summer. She had an affinity to dill, always ordering salmon and dill on our dinners out or sprinkling it into a sour cream dressing.

First the cucumbers. I plan on giving some of the salad to friends so I cut up three large ones.

Then it was mixing sour cream with olive oil, a small capful of apple cider vinegar and about three tablespoons of the dried Pereg dill.

Mix thoroughly  along with adding sea salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. Chill until ready to serve.

This is the salad all done. It really is a lovely accompaniment to grilled chicken or fish. All the ingredients work perfectly together and there's a certain coolness to the cucumbers , sour cream and dill. It's also a great light lunch or even snack  on its' own.

Pereg's dried dill and lemon verbena are what home chefs need this summer season. Use the dill in a tasty salad or sprinkled over grilled fish or scallops. Have the lemon verbena as tea , in a cocktail,or use to flavor a marinade. They will definitely give  coolness to summer eating and drinking.

Your Guide To London Bars

London is the place for summer vacations. It's a witty, polished town full of style and taste. It is also a sophisticated city laced with bars for the thirsty tourist and native. Yet , like other international cities, there are so many to choose from. Luckily there is a guide to help .

 Travelers need to pack London's Best Cocktail Bars :The Most Popular Hotspots (Lifestyle Books 2019). The author , Susan Cohen, a Londoner herself, has written this extensive guide to the city's best bars. She is the expert on all things British,usually writing on where to go for a proper British tea  and uniquely English subjects such as midwives and the Women's Institute. Travelers and Anglophiles may be familiar with her first guide London's Afternoon Teas:A Guide To London's Most Stylish and Exquisite Tea Venues. This may be good for who else - tea totalers . The new guide is perfect for those who want to try a variety of different quaffs along  being seen in the capital city's trendiest night spots. This is a beautifully crafted book, full of lovely pictures of the bars and their seating areas. One interesting note is that Ms.Cohen also includes recipes for some of the cocktails mentioned. Readers could try them out at home, especially at an at home cocktail party. A big plus is that the author includes dress codes - very important  - and lists the places of interest nearby.

The bars mentioned range from the ultra fun to the classic ones. Those with kids - yes kids - should check out Belowzero Ice Bar, located not far from Trafalgar Square.The seats and sculptures along with the glasses are made from ice. It's a perfect respite if London suffers from yet another scorching summer. Couples or groups may get a kick out of the whimsically named Sexy Fish. It also has the bonus of being within distance of Fortnum and Mason, one of the world's oldest food purveyors and a foodie's dream come true. Their drinks are unusual and the bar offers patrons a flavor map to help them decide what to order. There are also the typically English sort of bar such as The American Bar at The Stafford Hotel.It's the kind of place where you could see upper crust sorts enjoying an after work drink or internationals taking advantage of Tanqueray or Dubonnet cocktails.It was also a hang out of Elizabeth , the Queen Mother.Ms. Cohen also includes the famed and sophisticated Connaught Bar at the world famous Connaught Hotel. Visitors will love the martini trolley along with the drink Fleurissimo, a tribute to Grace Kelly,one of the hotel's famous guests.

London's Best Cocktail Bars: The Most Popular Hotspots is the guide book to have for any one with London vacation plans. It is a must pack and must have when visiting this amazing cities. Like the cocktails themselves, it's full of spark and sparkle.

Thermos STAT

The temps are Arctic frigid. You're wearing what seems to be five layers of clothing and you're still shivering. It's time to bring the heat - whether temperature wise or taste. It'll keep winter's icy chill at bay - hopefully.

One thing is certain during this frigid days  a hot meal is everything.We need fortification for those frosty drives to school and work. Ditch the boxed cereal. Think piping hot oatmeal or farina with a hot tea or hot coffee to wash it down. This is the time for a calories be damned breakfast of eggs, bacon and toast.If you still feel guilty, then go with poached eggs, they're not fried just boiled accompanying soy bacon. Sub in whole wheat or even pita for regular white bread. As long's as it's toasty and can keep you full and warm. Another hearty idea is a breakfast strata. This casserole type dish combines what we love about the first meal and the density of a dinner.If you've never made one before then go for the simplest recipe. The night before layer thick slices of white or whole wheat bread in a greased square baking dish. Beat four eggs and half a cup of milk along with oregano or thyme, Refrigerate overnight. The next morning preheat oven to 350, pop the strata into it Bake for half an hour and then sprinkled on shredded cheddar and bake for five more minutes. Cheese should be melted and the strata nice and puffy, Serve with strong hot tea or coffee for a body warming breakfast.

Always have a hot drink in the car during this weather.As much as you need bottles of cold water in the summer, you need either tea , coffee or cocoa. You can have a thermos or stop in at your favorite coffee shop.You'll also feel more alert too. Definitely go for a hot lunch. If you're worried about diet, then stick with a hot , light soup and plain tea. You can also add fire  Try a dish with heat. One favorite is pasta arrabiata or angry pasta. This is the perfect dinner dish too,Most of the recipes for it call for a quarter of a teaspoon of hot pepper flakes, but if you want real fire, then add half a teaspoon. Chili is another perfect lunch  or dinner. You can even make extra to create an  office meal for yourself. A pinch of hot pepper can do the job unless you want to go into alarm territory. Then it's time to get out the jalapenos.As for drinks, a hot after dinner  tea is always good, but you can make chai and spice it up with cinnamon . Mexican hot cocoa is not only hot but can be fiery with the addition of pinch of red pepper powder. You can also add this to any chocolate cake, cookie and cupcake recipe along with chocolate frosting to give it some sweet heat.

This is the time to bundle up and fortify yourself against these freezing days. Dress warm. Eat hot. It's the best defense against frost and frostbite.

Binge Faves

With snow and cold weather here , there's only one thing to do. Binge!!It's great to stay in all day and catch up with favorite shows and eating . What you binge on is up to you You can go healthy or decadent, that's up to you. Either way, just set out a bowl and grab the remote.

What would be a healthy binge? Veggies and fruit.,There;'s nothing as refreshing as a platter of bite size vegetables with some kind of dip.Some stores such as Acme and Stop ; Shop sell bowls of cut vegetables with dip. It's also easy to make your own. Go light with a tangy vinaigrette made with oil and lime juice instead of lemon.Add some cilantro and hot pepper for heat. You can also go for a creamy dressing. Mix tahini sauce  with lemon and a tiny bit of dark honey or chopped dates for an interesting dip. Tired of all the low calories. Then go full on healthy decadent with a homemade French dressing. It's combining  low calorie mayonnaise and ketchup with olive oil and apple cider vinegar. Longing for something crunchy? Get yourself an air fryer. This is a podlike mini oven that can crisp up fries and onion rings without all that oil. It's also good for cooking crunchy crispy  chicken tenders  and fish fillets, both the real deal and the soy kind. For those with a sweet tooth, try Crispy Green Crispy Fruit. These are  packets of air dried fruit  that are very low in calories but high in flavor and crunch. The apple  and pine apple pieces are the most addictive and are perfect for an afternoon of binge watching

Of course there is the decadent side of binging. You can make your own or order in sliders from White Castle.Have a side of fries with aoili mustard or go really calorie crazy with chili cheese one.You don't have to make your own spicy pot (although you're snowed in so why not)Open a can of
Hormels or Campbell's brand an zap it in the microwave.As for cheese, go for Kraft's Olde English. You can also buy Sargento's or Kraft's shredded cheddar mixes.Another fun binge food is pizza.Don't try to eat a whole twelve piece by yourself!That would be too bingeful!.Go with an individual pie.Stop & Shop sells single serve ones as does Red Baron. If you're not watching your weight, then finish with a hot fudge sundae. Of course there are chips and dip, but you can also splurge by making spinach dip. It's a pretty easy mix of sour cream, frozen or fresh chopped spinach and mayo. As for sweets, of course cookies. Get the Nestle or Pillsbury ready bake , bake ,cool and enjoy. Enjoy those with a soothing cup of tea or a liqueur spiked coffee.

If' it's a snowy day, stay in, Binge on your favorite programs and foods. Indulge yourself on this day off.

A Party Time Cookbook

This is the week for parties, from late night soirees to New Year's Day open house. For Southerners, this is the time when they shine.They know how to do celebrating just right.For the rest of us there's The Southern Living Party Cookbook.  It's a great guide to show how to get through simple through extravagant dos.

Elizabeth Heiskell , author of  What Can I Bring , contributor to Southern Living Magazine and a well known caterer in Mississippi  has written an updated version of the early Seventies book.oxmoor Press is the publisher.This is a must have for party givers.There are dozens of ideas for all sorts of get togethers, from a girl's night out to christening parties. I love how it's not just recipes but suggestions on  everything from decor to games that can be played.There are even ideas for favors that guests can bring home.The book may reflect Southern hospitality and have a Dixie vibe but there are fondue recipes along with ones for a chick wagon get together.Also if you think it's hominy grits and fried chicken, there are sophisticated recipes and parties worthy of  any urbane crowd.There are also  section on the proper glasses for drinks and how to toast.A lovely touch is what gifts to give the hostess,something that 's really not done anymore. The Easter meal has a special how to on making golden egg name tags


The recipes are grouped according to the party.A Low Country shrimp boil will have, of course, shrimp,but also cocktail sauce and an accompanying slaw. Teas, big, in the South , are also featured,especially the sweet custom of a bridal tea.This has blushing mimosas,a twist on the classic brunch cocktail served with long stemmed strawberries authorities.Another aspect is the large amount of reasons for hoisting a glass and sharing a canape .I love the Graduation Coffee where high school (and this can definitely be extended to college grads) are feted with a morning meal of rich dark chocolate chai latte served with the easy to make petite cinnamon rolls and sausage balls.The chuck wagon dinner sounds amazing with cowboy steaks cooked on a skillet out doors. With it comes ranchero beans, Mrs. R's coleslaw and German potato salad.It ends with a giant chocolate cake.Of course there are The holidays,with flourishes added.Homemade Hollandaise sauce graces Spring asparagus, being the prefect side to a leg of lamb.Thanksgiving and Christmas have fun ideas.:-)there's old fashioned roared turkey and chocolate bourbon pecan pie along with a variety of fondues .

The Southern Living Party Cookbook is just a great idea book for party givers.It can guide any host through all sorts of gatherings and soirees.It's a home like daft must have.

Fat Filled Fall Drinks

The temps dip and the first thing we reach for is --- a pumpkin latte. We down it like it's ice water on a hot day.The same goes for the peppermint mocha's which ride in on the pumpkin spice's coat tails.To be honest, all we're drinking is fat. Think of these quaffs as liquid cake and you might not be so quick to glug them down.

The average pumpkin spice coffee is anywhere from 300 to 400 calories. It's not much if you treat yourself to it once a week but have three or four times a week and then watch the weight gain. A better choice would be just a regular no bells and whistles cappuccino that comes in at only 120 calories. It's just as flavorful, especially when there's a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg on the top.Another idea is a simple black coffee.It's actually better because you get to enjoy the rich flavor without the hindrance of chocolate or caramel syrup and whipped cream. Hot tea is another zero calorie choice. Starbucks subsidiary Teavana is also being offered in all their locations. Try a hot , fruity tea instead. If you're stressed a soothing cup of chamomile is a better beverage than a caffeine laden espresso shot. A real dilemma is hot cocoa. This is a comfort drink and fortifier after  a hard day at work on a busy Saturday and Sunday. It will be high in calories however they can be cut with the right choices. Skip the whipped cream and chocolate drizzle. Hot chocolate has a froth of its' own.Also  asked for two per cent milk instead of whole and keep the size down to a kid's mini cup.

Just as seductive and loaded with calories are the frappuccinos and frozen hot chocolates. These are basically liquid cake. They are tasty and refreshing , especially after a warm fall Saturday morning spent on the soccer field.One with all the works is close to five hundred calories!!! That's  one hero sandwich with the works.It can also be two lean pieces of steak too. Even just limiting these sweet coffees to the weekends, can cost one thousand calories. Is the flavor worth it? If you want an icy pick me up settle for a cold brew. Again, Starbucks has theirs , and one in particular the Nitro Foam
Cascara which has only eighty calories and gives a satisfying kick. A plain cold brew is even better with only five calories a glass.As for iced tea, just have a plain  unsweetened one with a slice of lemon.Many tea and coffee shops can turn their hot brews into iced ones. Think about having an iced peppermint or jasmine for a refreshing break. Some coffee shops, such as Dunkin Donuts, still sell their frozen hot chocolate. Stay away from these lethal sips.Some can reach up to nine hundred calories!!!!. If you want cold chocolate, opt for Silk's Chocolate Cashew Milk boxes at ninety calories a box. These can be brought anywhere and are even a great drink at home.

Don't fall into the pumpkin spice latte trap. Pick a sensible hot or cold drink that has zero to very little calories. Remember , they/'re just as refreshing and comforting as their high calorie counterparts.

Good Foods, Good Teeth

Our teeth usually are the last body part we think of when we eat. Yet they, like our bones, need  healthy foods to thrive . A bad diet can lead to  bad dental problems which could lead to bad heart problems. The best way to avoid these is to give your choppers a diet rich in nutrients . The reward? A bright white smile!

There are reasons why parents freak out over their kids eating too much candy or soda.  These are loaded in sugar which mixes with bacteria. This then turns into an acid which breaks down tooth enamel. Also , a passion for sweets lasts well into adulthood and it;s hard to get out  the habit of wanting them. Start the little ones early with healthier treats such as apple or  pear slices.  Surprisingly bananas and raisins are high in sugar and not good for developing teeth. Kids love colas and other fizzy sweet drinks.Even juices are suspect, Let them drink milk or chilled water. What about flavored seltzer? There' no sugar in it, true, but the carbonation resulting from a hit of carbon dioxide can cause acids to form in the mouth. Even if you make it at home using a SodaStream, there;s a huge risk of cavities forming. A better bet is a chilled decaf herbal tea however make sure it's distilled. It can create problems in children so you may want to stick with fruit infused waters. These are easy to make,It's just taking any kind of fruit like pineapples or berries and infusing them in chilled water for four hours.

It's not too late for any adult to adopt a tooth healthy diet. Unfortunately our sugar habits are very much ingrained in us. One of our worst habits is imbibing too much coffee. Thanks to all these coffee shops, we're a country hooked on it. Caffeine does cause problems as well as creating halitosis or bad breath . It reacts with the mouth's bacteria which forms the corrosive acid that destroys enamel. You can have  your java fix but drink it quickly. Don't spend the day sipping it. That can lead to more harm. Also brush your teeth or at least rinse them after your daily cup. The same advice applies to tea too. Avoid the sugary extras like those chocolate and caramel drizzles or that pound of sugar you put into  your cappuccino. We have a tendency to snack  and unfortunately on the wrong kinds of food. Nix the afternoon Skittles and Oreos. As with kids, apples and pears are the best for your teeth. The fruit's rough flesh scrape the teeth much like a toothbrush. They also stimulate the mouth to produce more saliva which washes away the bacteria.  Raw carrots and celery  are also good for the teeth and also scrape away bacteria. If you do seriously crave sweets then go for dark chocolate. It's rich in flavanoids which help in oral health.

A healthy diet means healthy teeth. Eat right and you can have that bright white smile. It's not good genes that produce good bicuspids and canines. It good food.

Tea And The Perfect Kettle

One of the best things about chilly winter days is a soothing hot cup of tea. It's more refreshing than a coffee and lighter on the palate than hot cocoa.What makes the perfect tea? The perfect kettle, of course!!

What is the perfect kettle? I had to ask myself that today as I browsed both the Target site and Target's actual shelves. Our old kettle's handle broke, ending thirteen - fourteen? years of constant service.(it's seen in this blog's signature photo) We not only heated water for endless cups of tea - but also for instant espresso, hot cocoa ,oatmeal and instant soups. It could have lasted for another decade - save for the plastic handle breaking.  A tea kettle is vital to any household, especially one as tea addicted as mine. Going out to buy one was a must.I had wanted a stainless steel one, like our other. That was until I saw this beauty.

It's from Chantal (29.99 from Target) and what drew me to her (is she like Mrs.Potts from Beauty And The Beast?) is the sleekness. I love the ergonomic handle that makes her easy to lift and pour. Another big selling point was the lever on the handle's underside, It automatically lifts the spout cover. This is a huge plus  because it  was a pain to always lift the old kettle's cover.That required a a pot holder to do this. She is also a whistler - another bonus.

This tea kettle is a bit more delicate than the other. It is completely coated in enamel which means it can't handle intense heat for long periods of time.If the enamel melts she becomes  a fancy watering can for the garden.She  also only holds two quarts while the old kettle could handle about three and a half to four quarts.Still, she is a beauty , especially with that glossy, shiny navy blue coating.She is going to be handled with care. .The interior needs to be washed if there are any mineral build up which unfortunately will happen  thanks to us having hard water.. Luckily there is an instruction booklet and it suggests washing  away any mineral build up  by boiling white vinegar and water for twenty minutes. How can you tell when that happens? The kettle's interior will have a white powdery deposit, thanks to a high  magnesium and calcium content,It can be a real pain to remove if left untreated for long periods of time.

What makes for a good cup of tea? My Chantal tea kettle. I look forward to many cups of tea with her.

Cleansing Moments

Palate cleansers may sound like they belong in the bygone aristocratic days of Downton Abbey, but they are relevant on today's table. They provide a refreshing  break from a  course that is too spicy or too gamey.They're also  a nice way of slowing down a party dinner, giving guests time to digest and relax a bit.

This mini-course came about from the Italians who named it intermezzo. Basically it's a very small plate served halfway through  a meal of several courses.It's usually a light two  bite affair. A true Italian one features light neutral flavors such as basil, mint or parsley. It can also be any piece of fruit, sparkling wine or a sorbet. The last is usually a liqueur, wine or fruit flavor. The French, too, enjoy palate cleansers. They have a slightly different belief about them than the Italians do. In the Gallic diet, the cleansing plate is not only to wash away any lingering strong flavors from the previous course but also to aid in digestion, avoid heartburn and stimulate the appetite for the next course. In Normandy,  the French province known for their apples, apple brandy or Calvados is used. It is a strong , fiery shot called trou Normand,  Palate cleansers should work with the cuisines.. They shouldn't be overpowering and leave an aftertaste of their own  the next course.If it's a homemade cleanser, then be sparing with the flavorings.Don't go  overboard .The taste buds only have to be refreshed , not hosed down.

What is a good palate cleanser? Sometimes it's just a glass of water, well chilled with ice. Sparkling water can also be used, usually graced with a slice of lemon or lime, Surprisingly enough tea can also be used.Try a lightly brewed green, black or mint tea with the barest of sweeteners.It can be served hot or cold, but for fall and winter feasts serve it hot and save the iced version for spring and summer meals.Celery sticks or sliced Granny Smith apples make wonderful , informal palate cleansers. Serve them on a fancy plate after the first course. A sprig of parsley can also work too. Most palate cleansers are usually sorbets. It's usually lemon, lime or mint and it's easy to make. It's just taking
one cup each of water, sugar,  lemon,or lime juice for the fruit sorbets. The mint requires one packed cup of chopped mint leaves two cups of water and two and a half cups of sugar. A quarter of a cup of sweet wine is also needed.It 's simmering over a low flame and then putting the liquid into an ice cream maker . One scoop is placed in a fancy silver or glass bowl and decorated with lemon, or lime zest for the fruit sorbets. The mint sorbet usually is decorated with a curled mint leaf.

A palate cleanser is a nice way to prepare the taste buds for the next course. Make it a sorbet or a plate of celery. It will be a hit with guests who want a refreshing change of pace.

A Hot Cup Of Healthy

The temps are dropping . The knees are knocking. That means one thing - time for a hot  drink to warm the body and spirit. The problem is what's the best drink?Is it a hot toddy or a hot herbal tea?  The answer  -the last. Keep it healthy, while keeping it hot.

Many people reach for a hot brandy when they feel chilly. That may work in a cartoon or sitcom when a convenient Saint Bernard comes bounding through the snow with a keg of brandy around his or her neck. In actuality , it actually causes our body temps to drop. Blood vessels dilate allowing it to come closer to skin.  This dilation makes the blood flow faster so to speak, allowing us to feel that warm rush. . However this is a temporary feeling, You could mix brandy or whiskey even with steaming hot. coffee or tea.Hot cocoa is another cold weather must drink. The best kind is from scratch. Start with  powdered dark cocoa like the Dutch company Droste' or an organic cocoa powder such as Rapunzels' Sweeten it with dark organic honey instead of granulated sugar. Many will protest this, saying those marshmallow packed  packets are easier to make. That may be true but you;re also getting you a mouth full of preservatives and corn syrup. Stick with the all natural kind, especially if you're having it after dinner. Too much of any sugary drink will keep you up at night,

What about coffee and teas? Again go for healthy. Nowadays people love their coffees extra sweet ,loaded with syrups and blobs of whipped cream. That's great if you're into liquid cake. A better choice is just hot and black.or if you must skimmed milk with a sweetener such as honey(!) or agave nectar. The last can be found in the health food aisle in your local grocery store.Teas are another great way to get rid of that frosty feeling. There are some tasty herbal ones out there. Try Twinings's Nightly Calm ,a soothing spearmint and lemongrass blend. This is the perfect tea to  sip on a cold night, when you're bundled up in flannel jammies and robe. Their lemon ginger tea is a good one also , bright and citrussy to  thaw out to when the temps hit the single digits.. Add a dollop of honey to bring out the lemony flavor. Twinings also has pomegranate and raspberry ,an all natural blend , guaranteed to both warm and wake you up.  If you want a cozy night time drink, again go for the natural instead of the alcohol. A hot buttered rum may sound nice but a better choice is warmed milk with a teaspoon of honey added. This is the best way to relax and keep warm on a cold winter's night,

The temps are dropping. The knees are knocking. Conquer the chill with a hot  and healthy cup of something natural. It's good for your body on all levels.