LISTEN UP NON-COOKS!
If you are really concerned about higher food prices learn to cook! Those of us who do enjoy cooking are eating a lot better for less money than those who do not. Food is never going to be as cheap as it once was so invest in an all-purpose cookbook and start cooking!
Watch the Food Network. Check the internet. At the click of a mouse you can find a recipe for just about anything your heart desires! Make cooking a family affair, something you can enjoy together!
To save money you must take advantage of weekly specials, seasonal foods and in-store limited offers. Use your food coupons to save even more. Convenience foods may be convenient but many of them cost more money.
DON'T LAY A GUILT TRIP ON ME!
I have friends who say there's nothing they need, and like the rest of them, I'm not into buying big ticket items anymore but I still find some kitchen gadgets and equipment irresistible. However, for some reason when I hear "I don't need anything," I start thinking I have to justify my purchases or interest in all items applicable to food preparation and serving whether it's a Panini maker, an attractive casserole dish or new table linens.
My latest acquisition is a Tomato Slicer made especially for Williams-Sonoma for $19.95. Mary Ann bought it for me. Could I live without it? Of course I could, but I sure enjoy using it this summer! With one easy motion, this tool's blades slice a tomato into perfect 1/4 inch slices.
So dear friends who have everything you need, avoid saying it in front of me so I can continue having fun with these unnecessary things!
TRY WHOLE GRAINS FOR BIG HEALTH BENEFITS
When most of us think about including more whole grains in our diets, we tend to think of breads and breakfast cereals. But the truth is that whole grains and the bounty of nutrients they contain, such as selenium, magnesium and potassium, can be added to your diet in salads, soups and other dishes. Because each type of whole grain has its own amount of fiber, protein, vitamins and other nutrients, as well as a unique flavor and texture, you'll enjoy maximum benefits if you sample a variety of grains, says Heather Bainbridge, RD, a dietitian at the Weill Cornell-affiliated Comprehensive Weight Control Program.
Bainbridge explains that the nutritional value can differ. For example, wild rice has more protein than brown rice, but less iron and calcium. She also notes that not all grains are high in fiber, such as white rice and enriched pasta. Many whole grains, such as wheat berries and Wahini rice, can be included in salads, which mean you get the benefit of the vegetables in a traditional salad, as well as rewards of discovering nutritious whole grains you might enjoy. "It's always best to get your vitamins and nutrients from foods," Bainbridge says. "Because there are such a variety of whole grains, it's a great way to get excited about healthy eating."
Other whole grains to consider are quinoa, bulgur wheat, barley and millet.
Source: Cornell University Food & Fitness Advisor, September 2008.
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CANNED APPLE PIE FILLING REQUEST
A Paulding Chief shopper lost a recipe for canned apple pie filling that was on a Mary's Memo years ago. I do recall including an apple pie filling once but some of those old recipes were taken out of my notebooks for one reason or another and then I lost track of them. If anyone kept this recipe please send it addressed to me in care of the Bryan Chief Supermarket, 1380 S Main, Bryan, OH 43506. Meantime, here's a recipe for Canned Apple Pie filling via Allrecipes.com.
CANNED APPLE PIE FILLING
- 4 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 10 cups water
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 drops yellow food coloring
- 6 pounds apples
In large pan, mix sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon and nutmeg. Add salt and water and mix well. Bring to a boil and cook until thick and bubbly. Remove from heat and add lemon juice and food coloring. Sterilize canning jars, lids and rings by boiling them in a large pot of water. Peel, core and slice apples. Pack the sliced apples into hot canning jars, leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Fill jars with hot syrup and gently remove air bubbles with a knife. Put lids on and process in a water bath canner for 20 minutes. Recipe makes 7 quarts.
Source: Recipe provided by www.Allrecipes.com, the world's favorite recipe web site.
A WHOLE GRAIN CASSEROLE
Since whole grains offer great health benefits may we suggest Barley Casserole. I have no problem including barley in my diet and keep both regular and instant on hand to add to soup or use in side dishes.
BARLEY CASSEROLE
- 1 large sweet onion, chopped
- 1/2 pound sliced mushrooms
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter
- 1 cup barley
- 2 cans condensed beef consomme, undiluted
Saute onion and mushrooms in butter until onion is soft. Add barley and brown lightly. Pour into greased 1 1/2 quart casserole. Pour one can of beef consomme over barley mixture and cover. Bake in preheated 350F oven for 25 to 30 minutes. Uncover and add second can of beef consomme. Continue cooking until liquid is absorbed. Recipe makes 6 servings.
REMINDER:
"Ready, Set, Relax!" on Monday, October 6, 2008, Bryan OH. |
