Thanksgiving Dinner: Herbed Waffle Stuffing – Gluten and Nut-free Version

We get a lot of emails about holiday go-to sides for special dietary needs… This year the big question is: What do I give those gluten-free family members with turkey? We have you covered. If you do not need a gluten-free version it is equally good with a nice multi-grain waffle as well.

Stuffing, especially those dried boxed ones – can have a lot of sodium,chemical additives, and calories that you can invest in a nice piece of organic pumpkin pie.

This recipe can be done last minute – just ensure the waffles are on hand in the freezer!

Ingredients to serve 4-6+ people

• 2 boxes (12 waffles) Van’s GF frozen waffles, toasted and cut into 1/2″ cubes
• 2 medium white onions finely chopped
• 3 celery ribs, thinly sliced crosswise
• ½ teaspoon fresh rosemary
• ½ teaspoon fresh thyme
• ¼ teaspoon organic dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon organic dried sweet basil
• 1/3 cup organic dried cranberries (optional)
• ½ teaspoon organic maple syrup (optional)
• 1/2 cup unsalted organic butter
• 1-1/2 cups organic low-sodium chicken stock
• Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper

Tools: Large mixing bowl, toaster, cutting board and sharp knife, medium to large baking dish.

Directions

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Toast the frozen waffles on a medium to high toaster setting until very crispy but not burnt (do a test to get the perfect temperature).
• Let them cool and cut into 1/2 “ cubes and put into a clean bowl.
• Saute onions, celery and herbs in butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If you are using cranberries add them now to soften and release their natural flavours along with the maple syrup – your kitchen will smell amazing!
• Toss together bread cubes, vegetables, cranberries, maple syrup, and stock. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Transfer the stuffing to a large baking dish. Bake, uncovered for 20 minutes or until heated through.

Adios Mosquitoes!

With the news that mosquitoes are testing positive for West Nile Virus in our town, Toronto, Canada, we decided to do a post to offer natural and effective options for keeping these little nasty pests away. It should be noted that everyone’s skin responds differently to essential oils, so trial and error is necessary. However, we are providing the most proven effective, year after year. There is no need for harsh chemical products like Off and Deet.

For more information about West Nile Virus
For more information about the actual symptoms

If you or a family member have any symptoms or unusual fever – please contact your own physician, or go to the nearest clinic.

Recipe 1 – Urban Mask – A lighter yet highly receptive blend of simple ingredients that smell good.

Ingredients:
• 4 oz. clean spray bottle with a fine mist setting (do not use a bottle that previously contained cleaning products or hair products such as hair spray).
• 2 ounces of witch hazel (found at any drugstore)
• 1 ounce of distilled water at room temperature.
• 15 drops Lavender Essential Oil
• 10 drops Geranium Essential Oil (woman’s version*)
• 5 drops Rosemary Essential Oil
*for men use only 5 drops Geranium and add more Rosemary

Directions: Fill the spray bottle with the 1 ounce of distilled water and 2 ounces of witch hazel. (Even though a 4 oz. bottle is suggested, leave about 1 oz. unfilled so you can shake the bottle well between uses.) Then, add the essential oils. Continue reading

The 4 Hour Body Overview

I love Tim Ferris. He is a curious guy, never satisfied with the world around him, nor himself, and his quests become best-selling books. In Tim’s latest offering, The 4 Hour Body, we have a dizzying amount of data to digest on how he simplifies getting the body you want, both fast and easy.

As a proponent of bio-individuality, I believe parts of Tim’s book can benefit some and others not so much. What I do enjoy, is how he backs up his findings using real human models and citing various medical and research studies.

It is important to understand the main premise for the nutrition/diet portion of this book is the slow-carb eating plan with the celebrated – Cheat Day!Continue reading