'In the Kitchen' Archive Fridays: Super Foods - Add High Powered Nutrition To Your Day

Welcome to 'In the Kitchen' Archive Fridays!  Today I'm going back to the archives of Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close to feature a guest post written by Gemma at the blog Way Beyond Green that discussed native super foods (along with some recipes). Make sure to read all the way to the bottom of this post for an update (includes a couple of links to some interesting food blogs). 

Enjoy!

"Welcome to this week's guest article on Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close! Today, Gemma from Way Beyond Green will introduce you to native super foods and share some of her favorite recipes with you.

Nature's super foods...native foods are ounce for ounce your best value for quick, affordable and delicious health foods. Native foods are the natural result of hundreds of years of adaptation and nature's selective process; native foods are the champions of the food chain. Low fat, low carb and packing a powerful double punch as potent nutritional sources and disease fighting agents, super native foods are champions you want in your cupboard. And to top that, most native food varieties are available locally anywhere in the US and Canada. They typically very affordable, especially when in season.

This is the first segment in a two part series. In the first part we'll take you through Breakfast and Mid-day meals. Providing you with super foods that will help you start the day with lots of energy and leave you feeling healthy.

In our second article, we'll cover a Mid-day Meal and Dinner ideas. I will be providing you with more great recipes and quick and easy meal ideas using these super foods.

Super Native Foods #1: Berries
There are native berries that are readily available and in abundance throughout North America. In fact in some parts of the country, during the late summer months you can pick buckets full for free and it's a great outdoor activity for the entire family. By harvesting our own food, we not only save money but we also reconnect with our local environment and ensure that you're getting the highest vitality food available. Plus, it is a lot of fun.

Blueberries, cranberries, salmonberries, and huckleberries are all native berries that not only help the environment, but are great in handfuls and fantastic with yoghurt and granola.

Dried, fresh or frozen berries are potent capsules of Vitamin C and antioxidants needed for mental alertness, immunity, cell regeneration, and disease prevention. For hundreds of years, a handful of dried berries has been the preferred breakfast for champion moms and hungry babies.

Freezing berries is a great way to store this fabulous super food for later use. To freeze berries for later use, lay fresh berries flat out on a cookie sheet (don't wash them) and lay the cookie sheet level in freezer. A few hours later, dump the individual frozen berries in plastic baggies so you can use them later. As long as they stay frozen, you won't get a "big glob" of berries and can grab a handful on the go or easily add them to your cooking.

Suggested varieties:
Blueberries, cranberries, salmonberries and huckleberries

Recipes:Blueberry Muffins with Quinoa
Quinoa Corn Whole Orange Muffins Recipe This recipe didn't have berries in it, but it looked so darn good, I say throw a handful in. By the way, you don't have to thaw frozen berries - just throw them directly into the batter.


Super Native Foods #2: Quinoa & AmaranthAlthough strange sounding, quinoa (KEEN-wah) and amaranth are really very similar to oatmeal or other hot cereals. Quinoa is and amaranth are extremely high in protein and fiber and it is estimated that they contain 75% and 87% of an adult's daily nutrional requirements. Gluten and wheat-free these native foods are tiny capsules of energy and vitality, and contains hundreds of years of plant dna intelligence designed for survival. Forget Starbucks, that's what I need in the morning!

Suggested varieties:
Quinoa, amaranth, ground blue corn meal

Breakfast Meal Suggestions:Dried, fresh or frozen berries with granola or hot cereal such as quinoa, amaranth or blue corn meal. Prepare just like you would regular oatmeal. It takes almost no time to make and it is good prepared ahead of time. Just keep it covered in the refrigerator and reheat. If you need a quick breakfast on the go, simply skip the cereal and go for the berries.

Recipes:
Hot Quinoa Breakfast With Fruits. This link even gives you a breakdown of nutrient values.
Blue Corn Meal Crepes
Quick Lemon-Scented Quinoa Salad

A Traditional Oaxacan Recipe: Rich & Amaranth pudding. This is outrageous and still pretty good for you. You can simply reduce the sugar and the condensed milk in the recipe to make it even healthier for you. Condensed milk, or canned ingredients are often used by indigenous communities after true indigenous sources were no longer available. In the past, this was probably made traditionally (I'm guessing) with fresh goat's milk. If you choose to go this route, fresh goat's milk can often be purchased at your health food store and is fantastic for your immune system and digestion.

I hope you noticed, I've included a couple of different ways to cook these native foods. Once you find out wonderful they are, you'll want to add more to your diet. Oh, and I learned this the hard way... Do you want your kids to eat healthy? Don't say a word. Just tell them it's grown up food.

Additional resources:
waybeyondgreen.org
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Native_crops_by_country
http://www.squidoo.com/nativefoods

This week's guest writer

Gemma Benton is a mom and grandmother who raised her family on traditional Native American foods, wild harvested plants and herbs for over twelve years. She is actively involved in the preservation of native american and indigenous traditions. You can learn more about the benefits of native foods and indigenous cultures at her blog waybeyondgreen.org."

Update:

Unfortunately, when doing my research for this archive Friday, I discovered that Gemma is no longer blogging.  Gemma is no longer posting new content at Way Beyond Green but she still has all the old articles available online for you to view.  Way Beyond Green has articles on food (general), diet and supplements, a bunch of recipes, and instructions on how to cook various foods (e.g. different types of vegetables).  At the end of Gemma's blog, she references two other blogs that she retrieved information from to share on her blog.  Both are worth checking out.  One that is sourced is one that I recently found out about and love: Simply Recipes.  Simply Recipes has tons of recipes sorted by main ingredient, type of meal, special cooking categories and more.  The other blog sourced is called Green Drink Reviews.  It is a review blog that reviews natural health products, but also discusses health tips on a regular basis.  It is worth taking a look at if you are interested in or already purchase health food products or are a health-conscious person.

'In the Kitchen' Archive Fridays: GelPro REreview

Welcome to 'In the Kitchen' Archive Fridays!  Today I'm going back to the archives of Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close to feature a review I did for GelPro.  Make sure to scroll down to the bottom of this post for an update on my experience with the product between the time I reviewed it in 2009 and now!

Enjoy!

"Standing in the kitchen for long periods while cooking or cleaning up, can often lead to sore legs, back, neck and/or joints. When I found out about a great new product created by GelPro that provides comfort and style, I was interested in learning more. GelPro creates floor mats that make standing in your kitchen for long periods much easier and more enjoyable.

GelPro realizes that many people in the world love to cook, but unfortunately, many also experience pain in their feet, legs, and joints after standing on a hard floor. GelPro came up with an anti-fatigue mat that “looks as good as it feels!” Each GelPro mat is made from a “soft, shock-absorbing gel core.” This easily turns any style of floor (even polished concrete and hardwood) into one of the most comfortable places to stand in your home.

I was pleasantly surprised to learn about the number of ailments and conditions GelPro mats can help:
-arthritis
-leg, neck and back pain
-plantar fasciitis
-diabetes (by increasing blood flow)

Since each of these problems can worsen after standing on a hard surface for long periods of time, it is no wonder that the soft gel core in the GelPro mats is an ideal solution!

“Fatigue resulting from cooking is something GelPro Mat founder and engineer, Robb McMahan is especially familiar with as it was his direct inspiration for developing the GelPro Mat. Robb’s wife Lisa complained about her fatigue and pain after cooking Thanksgiving dinner for the family. Relying on his innovative spirit, Robb designed a solution for his wife that has grown into a product that pros like Martha Stewart and the Barefoot Contessa depend on in their kitchens.”

I love that GelPro mats are extremely diverse. Besides being used in the kitchen, they can also be used on any hard surface that you stand on for extended periods of time, such as your laundry room, bathroom, or even your garage floor. In addition, GelPro has developed many different sizes, patterns, and colors to ensure you will be able to find the perfect GelPro mat to match your needs and décor!

ReviewI was so happy to find out that I would be receiving a GelPro mat to try out in my kitchen! After standing for long periods, my legs get tired and my joints sometimes start to hurt. I was really looking forward to trying the GelPro mat to see if it would help with alleviate these problems.

GelPro sent me their Cordoba mat in Truffle (Size 20” x 36”) to review. This size and style of GelPro mat regularly sells for $124.95 USD on their website.


When I was first asked to choose a mat I liked and that would go well in my space, I honestly had no clue what to pick. Sometimes I find it so hard to choose items sight unseen, especially when it comes to trying to match colors off a computer screen. Luckily, GelPro makes it extremely easy to choose the right color. When you go to the GelPro products page and choose a style, then a color, a description of that color will appear. In the description, GelPro suggests types of colors and hardware that go well with the style and color of GelPro mat you have chosen. For example, here is what the one I chose said, “Truffle infuses hints of red with warm dark coffee brown. Rich and alluring, it is strong enough to satisfy the needs of those wanting heavier accents. Truffle is a perfect velvety neutral for all color schemes that beautifully enhances oiled bronze hardware.”

Since our flooring is a darker brown with hints of red, I figured the Cordoba Truffle would compliment my kitchen perfectly. And, I was right! When my Truffle Cordoba mat arrived, I took it out of the box and set it up. I was happy to see that the color looked exactly like what was shown to me on the GelPro website. As soon as I placed it on my kitchen floor, I knew I had made the right choice. It looked wonderful!

For people who are still unsure about the color, they can order fabric sample kits to match against their floors, hardware, appliances, etc. There is a $10 charge (+ $1 shipping) for the sample but when you do order your mat, this $10 fee will be reimbursed. This is a foolproof way to ensure you get the right color! **Note: “up to one fabric sample rebate per mat ordered.”

When I was first setting up the GelPro mat, I also noticed that the mat was quite a bit lighter that I thought it would be. It was very easy to pick up and move around if need be.

Next came time to step on it (I was so excited)! As soon as I did, I was shocked. The GelPro mat was so much softer than I originally thought it would be. Even though I knew it would be soft, in actuality, it exceeded my expectations. I immediately began looking forward to cooking in the kitchen that evening.

Later that evening, I was able to try out the mat while making super. I placed the mat in the corner of my kitchen where I do all my prep work. Since my kitchen is quite small, the size of this mat is perfect because it fits well right in front of my prep space and range. As I prepared our supper, I noticed how soft and luxurious the GelPro mat felt on my feet. It felt much more relaxing than standing on our hard kitchen floor. After I finished cooking, my feet still felt relaxed and my legs and joints were not sore at all.

Another aspect I loved about the GelPro mat was how easy it is to take care of. Because of the outer material/fabric used for the mat, it does not stain and it is simple to clean. When I spill something on it, all I need to do is wipe it with a wet cloth, then, it is as good as new again. For me, something that is low maintenance is a high priority in my house!

I have been using the GelPro mat for just over a week now and I am very satisfied with it! I am so happy that GelPro gave me the opportunity to test their product. I love that this mat is comfortable, prevents pain, and looks stylish at the same time. Whether you are in need of a place to relax your feet while you cook or you suffer from acute or chronic pain, the GelPro mat is the perfect solution! I believe that a GelPro mat is a must-have accessory for every kitchen. I would highly suggest this mat to anyone. Now that I have one that I love, all I have to do is buy another one for in front of our kitchen sink, and possibly a couple for Christmas or birthday gifts. I have several family members who I know could benefit from a GelPro mat!"


Update:
Two years later and yes, I am still using my GelPro mat in front of my kitchen sink.  It is an item that I have really appreciated having in the kitchen, especially when baking, cooking lengthy recipes, or when pregnant!  This mat is really comfortable and definitely makes my joints a bit happier.  Since I received one of the smaller mats for review, my husband and I have discussed getting another one (and I have joked about how great it would be to cover our entire kitchen floor with GelPro).  However, since it isn't a priority, we haven't been able to justify getting another one yet.  Although, it is something that we may have to add to our Christmas list this year. 

After using the GelPro mat for an extended period of time, there is only a couple of things I noticed that could be improved.  First of all, the mat tends to slip if you step or move on the mat the wrong way.  This seemed to be a particular issue for me during pregnancy (perhaps a bit clumsier) when I managed to throw my hip or back out a couple of times after stepping on the mat the wrong way.  Because of that, I'd love to see GelPro add a non-slip bottom to their mats.  Also, over time, the edges of the mat have started to curl slightly.  This isn't a huge deal since it doesn't affect the usability of the mat at all and things like that are usually expected over time.

All-in-all, I have loved using my GelPro mat and I would recommend it.

Since reviewing this mat, a few things have been added to the GelPro website.  GelPro now has two new lines of products: GelPro Plush (an added layer of foam for extra comfort) and NewLife (an eco-friendly option).  In addition, GelPro now has a clearance center on their website, which allows you to save 20% or more on their products.

'In the Kitchen' Archive Fridays: Microplane REreview

Welcome to the third installment of 'In the Kitchen' Archive Fridays!  Today I'm going back to the archives of Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close to feature a review for the first time.  The review is of the Microplane 4-sided box grater.  Make sure to scroll down to the bottom of this post for an update on my experience with the product between the time I reviewed it in 2009 and now!

Enjoy!

"Recently, I was surfing the net looking for new and interesting kitchen tools when I came across a company called Microplane. Microplane originally started by designing woodworking tools in 1990, but only 4 years later, they realized the need for high quality, ‘sharper cutting tools’ in the kitchen and introduced their kitchen tool line.

The story of how the kitchen tool line came to be is quite amusing: “The big moment came, when Lorraine Lee, a homemaker in Ottawa, Canada, was making an Armenian orange cake. Out of frustration with her old grater, she picked up a new tool her husband, Leonard, had brought home from their hardware store, Lee Valley Tools. She slid the orange across its blades and was amazed. Lacy shards of zest fell from its surface like snowflakes. The Lees marveled at the tool, ate the cake, then promptly changed the product description in their catalogue. The Microplane® grater had earned permanent space in the kitchen.”

Microplane is now known worldwide for making quality kitchen, personal care, and woodworking tools that are sharp for superior results, yet safe.

Review
After seeing all the neat kitchen tools Microplane carries (graters, slicers, zesters, etc.), I was determined to try one out for myself. Microplane offered to send me one of their newest award winning products: the Microplane® Specialty Series 4-Sided Box Grater. This amazing grater has been classified as Fine Cooking Magazine’s choice of best overall box grater. In addition, the 4-sided box grater received top honors in the 2009 Housewares Design Awards for Kitchen Hand Tools. After seeing all the features of this grater and hearing about all the awards that it had won, I was really looking forward to testing it out.

The Microplane 4-Sided Box Grater includes Microplane’s three most popular grating blades, the fine/zester, medium ribbon and extra coarse. Microplane has also added a slicer blade to this product. Each blade is made from premium surgical grade stainless steel and the overall grating area size is 5.25” by 4.25”. To ensure that this grater is easy to use and comfortable to handle, Microplane decided to include an ergonomic soft grip handle. Rubber feet ensure that while you are using the grater, it won’t slip. Microplane has truly thought of everything with their new 4-Sided Box Grater. They have even included a plastic cover that you can easily slip over the top when it is not in use. This is a great way to protect yourself and others in your household.

When it comes to doing dishes, it is really not something I enjoy doing (who does?). We have a dishwasher and use it as often as possible. I do admit that if something isn’t dishwasher safe, I generally will not purchase it. Unless, I really really really like it. Luckily for me, Microplane has catered to people like me with this product. Since it is made with stainless steel, rubber, and plastic, it is completely dishwasher safe. Microplane has made this grater easier than ever to clean and has even made the fine blade removable for easier cleaning access.

Finally, it came time to test out Microplane's grater! I was busy making chicken wraps in the kitchen for lunch when I remembered that the Microplane had a slicer on the side of it. Since I had to cut vegetables and shred cheese and I hadn’t tried out the Microplane 4-Sided box grater yet, I figured it would be the perfect opportunity. I was about to cut slices of cucumber so I decided to use the slicer instead of a knife as I normally would. I was extremely impressed by how sharp the blade was. I have a Mandolin for slicing things but I never use it because it is so dull. I am impressed that the blade on the grater is even better than mandolin I have, especially since the slicer is not the main function of the grater!

Next, I had to shred some cheese; so of course, the grater was a perfect solution. When I picked up the grater and looked at the blades, I noticed they were quite different from any other grater I had ever owned. Instead of the holes being round, they were rectangular. I thought this was neat. I am embarrassed to admit that when I shredded cheese with Microplane’s grater for the first time, I was excited about the new and interesting shape of it. Both the small size and large side of the grater were the same shape. After making my chicken wraps, I have been using the Microplane 4-Sided Grater on almost a daily basis. My other graters have gone into retirement. Each time I have used the grater (all functions of it), I have had wonderful results.

One thing I did notice is that the small grater side seems a bit smaller than most graters. At first, I thought it made it a bit harder to grate cheese on the small setting. But then, I noticed that it wasn’t necessarily harder, it just took a bit more time. The fact that this grater grates cheese a bit smaller is actually a good thing for me. When I use the small side of my grater, it is often because I will be melting the cheese. Since cheese melts faster the smaller it is, I don’t have to worry about overcooking the rest of my food if I am just adding it at the end (for example: a baked potato or garlic cheese bread).

In conclusion, I can see why the Microplane 4-Sided Grater has won all the awards that it has; this is a great product! After seeing the high quality blades that Microplane uses in their products, I am certainly looking forward to trying more of their products in the future."

Update:
It isn't all the time that I review a product that I find myself using for years to come.  The Microplane 4-sided Box Grater is a product that I loved when I reviewed it 2 years ago and I still love it today.  Not only do I love this grater but it has become one of my favourite kitchen gadgets.  While I do have other graters, Microplane is my primary grater and I'm truly disappointed when it happens to be dirty or unavailable for whatever reason.  After two years of using this product at least a few times each week, it performs just as well as the day I got it; the blades haven't dulled at all and the overall sturdiness remains the same.  Microplane truly sets itself apart from other graters on the market with it's surgical stainless steel blades (they are the sharpest blades I've experienced from a kitchen product).  The only part of the grater that I no longer use is the plastic shield (cover) that came with the grater; I found that it was just easier to store the grater without it. 

Since receiving this item for review, I have purchased numerous other Microplane products because I know that Microplane equals (=) quality!  I have also often suggested Microplane products over other brands to family and friends and they have been equally impressed by the quality.  Overall, I have thoroughly enjoyed using the 4-sided Microplane Box Grater and would highly suggest Microplane kitchen products to anyone who spends anytime at all in the kitchen!