5 Unique Caribbean Teas and Herbal Benefits by Damian Powell (Guest Post)

The Caribbean is an idyllic paradise comprising different countries and territories that are savored by vacation tourists, pleasure-seekers, and people looking for relaxation in exotic locations. Trinidad, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, West Indies - take your pick and be transported to whole new worlds where you wish your days of freedom are not numbered. Your experiences will be very pleasant and memorable. 

If you have visited any of these locations then there is something you won't want to forget.

When browsing the local shops, you probably noticed certain herbal tea drinks which catch your attention with names like turmeric tea, soursop tea, bissy tea, cerasee tea, and fever grass tea. They may be native to other places but they were brought here to the islands and they were given a distinctly Caribbean twist. They could be Asian, African, or Latin American in origin, but Caribbean folks everywhere made use of them extensively and many people in the islands are familiar with them since childhood. Other herbal teas that are worth mentioning are peppermint, soursop, cinnamon, lemon ginger for its digestive aiding properties, and sorrel benefits of the hibiscus flower known as roselle.

WASHOUT HERBAL DRINKS:

Most Caribbeans, locally and abroad, would remember rituals or must do's administered by their parents at the end of the holidays or summer vacation. They were to do a "washout" with a mixture of local herbal drinks bought from the store. They could include turmeric, soursop, bissy, cerasee, fever grass tea, and other herbals concocted by the elders. They are supposed to deworm or bring out the toxins from the kids' systems before they return to school.

Below you will find information regarding 5 Caribbean herbal teas that are not only good for you but are also delicious.  

1) TURMERIC TEA

Turmeric tea adds zest to your morning routine. Turmeric is sometimes mixed with other herbs and spices like ginger, lemon, honey, and cinnamon to add more flavor. There is also caffeine-free turmeric tea which helps balance and supports a healthy inflammation response. Turmeric is a popular spice made from the rhizome or root of the Curcuma longa plant. It is native to Southeast Asia and is a member of the Zingiberaceae or ginger family. It has been used as a herbal remedy for generations in Caribbean alternative medicine. A range of turmeric teas is available for purchase in health stores or online. The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin. Curcumin gives turmeric its characteristic yellow color and is proven to have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Curcumin has low bioavailability, which means the body has a hard time accessing and absorbing the compound. For this reason, the herbal benefits of turmeric tea, with its guaranteed high concentrations of curcumin, are in demand. Turmeric tea, brewed using grated turmeric root or pure powder, is considered one of the most effective ways to consume curcumin. Drinking turmeric tea is believed to bring about several health benefits: 

1.Reduces arthritis symptoms 

2. Boosts immune function 

3. Helps reduce cardiovascular complications 

4. Helps prevent and treat cancer 

5. Helps manage irritable bowel syndrome or IBS and other digestive conditions. 

6. Prevents and treats Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative conditions. 

7. Protects against liver damage, gallstones, and manages liver conditions. 

8. Helps prevent and manage diabetes 

9. Helps treat and manage lung conditions 

With these health benefits, wouldn't it be nice to have some turmeric tea stocked on your pantry shelves at home?

2) SOURSOP TEA

It is derived from the Graviola tree that is native to Latin America. It is used to treat stomach ailments, parasitic infections, fever, rheumatism, and hypertension. It is also a sedative and can aid in sleep problems and has an effectivity that can compete with chemotherapy when it comes to battling cancer cells. Soursop herbal tea is also a good source of vitamin C which boosts immunity. Thus, it also promotes the destruction of free radicals to protect your skin from oxidative damage.

3) BISSY TEA 

Bissy tea originated from Africa but is a staple drink in many Caribbean homes. It is an antidote for poison and aids in digestion, relieves diarrhea and inflammation, treats fever, and is considered a tonic. Bissy tea shows antioxidant properties and bissy is also used to treat fever, relieve inflammation, and diarrhea. Bissy tea is sourced from grated cola nuts which can expel toxins from your system. Its high concentration of tannic acid is the reason why it has antioxidant properties. When you're busy and you want a hot beverage, why not drink "bissy" tea and take a break from your busyness? You can buy bissy tea online on Caribbean websites tropical supermarket if it is not available at your local grocery store.

4) CERASEE TEA 

Cerasee Herbal Tea is derived from bitter melon. Bitter herbs and food are very nutritious because they contain various plant-based chemicals that are beneficial to health. Cerasee tea is full of phytochemicals like triterpenoids, polyphenols, and flavonoids that slow the growth of cancers and reduce the risk of heart disease. It also lowers blood sugar levels in diabetic people. Cerasee is also healthy for the gut because it takes care of worms and parasites. Thus, it can make you lose weight. Caribbeans are full of healthy surprises, and cerasee tea is one of the "bitter" but healthy truths.

5) FEVER GRASS TEA 

Fever grass tea, also known as lemongrass, has long been a painkilling remedy for many households, may it be in the West Indies or Guyana, or elsewhere in the Caribbean. Drinking it for one month straight can increase hemoglobin concentration and red blood cell count. It also prevents bloating. Fever grass is a perennial plant that is indigenous to Asia. It has long thin leaves and contains citral, an essential oil that has medicinal significance. Fever grass has a pleasant smell which makes it ideal as an additive when cooking rice. Fever grass tea, doesn't give you a fever, ask the locals. Instead, it heals fevers and many disorders associated with blood.

♦  ALL 5 TEAS have been part of Caribbean life and culture for generations. Their medical uses overlap each other, so each kind of tea should find its own space on your shelves. 

* * *

About the Author: Damian Powell is the CEO at Islsnac LLC.  Caribbean Dreams teas are available via Amazon.

Image credit: Caribbean Islands Souvenir Blue Map Embossed Ceramic Coffee Mug Tea Cup 11 oz

♦

Food Gift Baskets Are Perfect for Holiday Gift-Giving

The holiday season is upon us, and I, for one, am very content to share a few precious moments with family and friends. It is not necessary to give me a gift. However … if you want to make me happy for the holidays, you can give me a cheese gift basket. Several years ago, my brother gave my husband and me a basket for Christmas, and we thoroughly enjoyed all of the tasty cheeses. 

Image credit

You can buy gift baskets that are ready-made or make a basket yourself. If you want to make a gift basket and you are not sure which cheese to pick, you can follow the advice published by Serious Eats or Taste Atlas.

REFERENCES:

• Thorpe, Liz. “Cheese Expert's Picks: 10 Essential Cheeses to Know and Love.” Serious Eats, SERIOUS EATS INC., BY DOTDASH, 31 Oct. 2019.

• “100 Best Rated Cheeses in The World.” Taste Atlas, AtlasMedia Ltd. (EU), 5 Dec. 2020, www.tasteatlas.com/100-best-rated-cheeses-in-the-world.

* * *

Me personally, I like gouda, gruyere, extra sharp cheddar, Greek feta, and Camembert. But I would be more than happy to try any of those other cheeses recommended on these lists.

Of course, I know a cheese gift basket is kind of expensive. But it's just a suggestion to get you thinking about all the various types of gift baskets you can put together and give to family and friends.

For example, do you have a friend who is a cocoa or coffee or tea lover? Or a friend who likes various sorts of jellies and jams? You can choose a theme like … chili fixings or ingredients for Italian or Mexican food. Making gift baskets is fun. They don't have to be edible gifts either. (I just like receiving gourmet food baskets!) The items don't even have to be in a straw basket. Gift baskets can be very personalized and unique. You can give one to an individual, a couple, or a family. And of course … they come from the heart.

How to Make Easy Fancy Gift Basket



Original content source

Two (2) Southern Cooking Techniques by Ken Miller (Guest Post)

According to Wikipedia: The cuisine of the Southern United States developed in the traditionally defined American South. Tidewater, Appalachian, Cajun, Creole, Lowcountry, and Floribbean are examples of types of Southern cuisine.

Ken Miller is a freelance writer and webmaster, and enjoys sharing cooking tips and recipes for authentic Southern cooking.  In this article he shares two (2) Southern Cooking techniques.

TECHNIQUE 1:

This first technique may sound unrelated to Southern Cooking, but you will see the connection as we proceed. Here's the first tip, which should be applied to all your recipes, not just Southern Cooking.

The Chinese figured this out long ago. Combine sweet and sour in your cooking. That is, in a dish that is intended to be sweet (desserts), add a pinch of salt, vinegar, or hot spice. In a dish that is intended to be sour or savory (i.e., not sweet), such as vegetables, chili, or meats, add sweet. I prefer syrup or molasses rather than regular sugar to add that sweetness.

As an example, in Southern Recipes, I add a teaspoon of molasses to greens (turnip, collards, mustard), green beans and breakfast gravy. One exception to the adding sweet to sour is in cornbread. If you want real Southern cornbread, never put sugar in it. Sorry, that's not cornbread, it's cake (or Yankee cornbread). I also add a teaspoon of regular sugar to my cole slaw and chili.

Likewise, in all desserts that I cook, I add a pinch of salt. You are probably aware that most dessert recipes call for this anyway.

I have discussed the next technique at length in my other articles and on my websites, but it is so important that I want to repeat it here. You must use cast-iron cookware for most Southern dishes, especially cornbread. First, it is the traditional way to cook Southern. Additionally, the cast iron transfers heat unlike any other material, making it uniquely suited for Southern dishes. So, please use cast iron.


TECHNIQUE 2:

This next technique is employed in many Southern recipes. Southerners use cornmeal in many fried dishes to coat the food. This produces a crunchy texture and adds flavor. When frying chicken, coat (batter) the chicken in flour, but add cornmeal to the flour mix at a 3 to 1 ratio. In other words, 1/4 cup cornmeal to 1 cup flour. Also, fried okra should be coated in a pure cornmeal mix (with salt and pepper, no flour). Here's the point...experiment a little. When a recipe calls for flour or just because you have always cooked it that way, try substituting cornmeal for flour.

Here's something I remember from my grandmother's kitchen. She was a great cook of traditional Southern food. She made the best biscuits I've ever tasted. At first, I thought it was her recipe, until I found out there was nothing unusual about it (I think she got it off a bag of flour.) It wasn't the ingredients that made them so good. It was the size of the biscuits. I always knew she made bigger biscuits than I was use to but I didn't make the connection until after I found out her secret was not the ingredients. 

Larger biscuits will have more of the soft insides and a larger area outside for the brown crust. They are especially good with gravy or anytime you will be using a sauce. Here's what she did. She rolled out the biscuit dough to about 3/4 inch thickness. Then she used a biscuit cutter that was a little over 3 inches in diameter (who knows where she got it...it was probably a hundred years old.) A word of caution if you use this technique for your biscuits, do not make the dough over 3/4 inch thick. 

You may think that if 3/4 inch is good, then 1 1/2 inches should be better. Not so. The 3/4 inch rule seems to be the optimum for Fat Biscuits. If you make them much thicker, the tops will crack, and they will have a doughy flour taste. So, if you are one that has always made slim 2-inch biscuits, give these a try. And, try out the other techniques mentioned for real Southern Cooking.

* * *  Article Source 

Rooting for Potatoes: The Spud Makes A Comeback

Forget low-carb diets and Atkins; those sweet, succulent spuds are once again finding their place among meat and vegetables at the dinner table.To celebrate its return to center stage, Kita Roberta of Girl Carnivore is recognizing the health benefits of a plant-based diet, while still including your favorite proteins.To that end, Girl Carnivore has created a recipe that is packed with carrots, beets, kale and Idaho potatoes. Add the sweetness of maple aioli and you’ve got yourself a good-for-you meal. 

Roasted Roots and Chicken Power Bowl with Maple Aioli 

* 4 Russet Idaho potatoes, chopped into 1/2-inch cubes

* 3 carrots

* 1 turnip, peeled, cut in half lengthwise, and then cut into wedges

* 1 red onion, cut into wedges

* 1 cup butternut squash, peeled and chopped

* 2 beets, rinsed, peeled, cut in half and then cut into wedges

* 4 teaspoons olive oil, divided

* Salt and pepper

* 3 sprigs fresh thyme, removed from stem

* 3 cups Swiss chard, removed from stem and chopped

* 1 garlic clove, minced

* 1 cup cooked rotisserie chicken, chopped 

For the Maple Aioli 

* 3 tablespoons fresh mayonnaise

* 1 tablespoon maple syrup

* 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

Preheat the oven to 425 degreeF. Line a baking sheet with foil and spray with cooking spray.  Toss all of the vegetables in olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.Arrange the vegetables in a single layer on the baking sheet. Sprinkle with thyme. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes, until golden and fork-tender, flipping once, halfway through.  Meanwhile, heat the remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium-heat. Sauté the Swiss chard with the chopped garlic until wilted, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.  Whisk the mayonnaise with the maple syrup and cinnamon until combined.  Spoon into a serving dish.  Divide the chard evenly in serving bowls. Top with the roasted vegetables and chopped rotisserie chicken. Serve with the maple aioli on the side for dipping.

For more recipes, visit the Idaho Potato Commission’s website at https://idahopotato.com. 

(NewsUSA) –

Diet and Nutrition Advice: 5 Low-Carb Swaps for A Guilt-Free Holiday Season

With the holidays upon us, you might be worrying about how to get through all the parties and cookie exchanges without derailing your healthy lifestyle. It can be a struggle to avoid temptation, particularly when you’re busy, stressed, sleep-deprived, or all three. At times, you might consider giving up and just diving into the dessert tray. But with a bit of motivation and creativity, you can whip together some festive treats that are both delicious and carb-conscious.

(Original Source for this content.)

Courtney McCormick, Dietitian at Nutrisystem, offers five low-carb swaps to keep you healthy and happy through the holidays:

1. Try veggies when you’re craving a crunch. 

We’re all guilty of lingering too long at the chips and salsa bowl at a holiday party. If you’re craving something crunchy such as a pretzel or chips, try carb-conscious snacks with a crunch – brussel sprouts chips, kale chips, veggies such as cucumber, zucchini, and carrots – they pair wonderfully with a healthier dip such as low-fat ranch or hummus.

2. Sub in cauliflower for your favorite comfort foods. 

Do you love mashed potatoes, rice, pizza, and tater tots? If you’ve been avoiding these foods as part of your healthy lifestyle, cauliflower is here to help. This versatile veggie has recently become popular as a substitute for some of our favorite comfort foods. Mashed and steamed cauliflower have a texture and taste that is surprisingly similar to mashed potatoes – add a bit of salted butter and enjoy! And if you’re not ready to go all in on the cauliflower craze just yet, McCormick recommends swapping out at least half the potatoes for cauliflower.

3. Mix your own dressings and condiments. 

Have you taken a close look at the nutrition facts on your favorite cranberry sauce? You might be shocked by the carbs and added sugars in dressings, sauces, and condiments, even those that appear to be "healthier" options. The best way to avoid sneaky carbs in your condiments is to make them at home. That way, you can control the ingredients and ensure they taste great.

4. Bring the healthy alternative to the holiday party. 

Where everyone else is hauling sugary cookies and cakes, dare to bring the delicious low-carb snack! Get creative with the presentation – use edamame hummus, pita, and slices of red pepper to make perfectly festive "holiday trees."

5. Don’t drink your carbs. 

You’ve probably heard the saying, "don’t drink your calories," before, but you shouldn’t drink your carbs either. Toss the fruit juices and sodas for seltzer, unsweetened tea, and the original favorite, water. Light beer, spiked seltzer, or dry wines are good low-carb alcohol options if you’re celebrating.

• Low-carb non-alcoholic drinks are an even better option.

For more great tips and tricks on how to make the most of your holidays with healthy alternatives, visit leaf.nutrisystem.com.  

(NewsUSA) – 

Can You Guess the Healthiest Cuisines in the World?

Dear Blog Readers and Subscribers: 

Missed me?  LOL. ☺❤  

I chilled out a bit for the 4th of July holiday, but I have been (and still am) kind of busy with my various home biz projects.  Publishing this short post so that my readers know this blog is still being maintained.

Found an interesting article today at Spices, Inc. that lists the 8 Healthiest Cuisines in the World.

It was no surprise to me that California Cuisine was on the list. I am a little upset that Caribbean cuisine did not make the list. But I understand. ☺ As to why kosher Jewish food isn't Number 1 on the list?  Your guess is as good as mine. ☺

JUST FOR FUN!

Before you check the official list at Spices, Inc., write down YOUR LIST of world cuisines that you think should be on this list and then compare to see if you guessed right!

8 Healthiest Cuisines in the World

Learn all about the 8 healthiest cuisines in the world ...

California Cuisine - History, Features and Fun Facts

Each bullet point presented below has been explored in much further detail by fellow freelance writer Om Paramapoonya and presented in an article titled: The term "California cuisine" was first used by food critics and magazine editors. California has diverse agriculture and people.

What Jew Wanna Eat - This Ain't Yo Bubbe's Blog

These Kofta Stuffed Dates from Millennial Kosher are a little sweet, a little salty, and make the perfect appetizer! If you like meat wrapped in more meat, then do I have a treat for you! Boy ...

World Cuisine: Great Recipes from Around the World (and Texas)

A handy reference list. Descriptive list of the different and popular dishes from the Philippines that every Filipino family have enjoyed cooking and serving on their dinner table. A Taste of the Caribbean: Make Jamaican Patties for Supper! This is a great recipe for authentic tasting Jamaican Patties; delicious golden pastry filled with curried beef and spices.

Indian Food - Myth or Fact

Do you like Indian food? I do! Although must admit, had to acquire a taste for it. My first time trying a so-called authentic Indian dish was at one of those American mall-type food courts, where there are all kinds of restaurants for you to choose from.

Food Blog Spotlight: Tofu is the New Black on Tumblr

So glad such a thing as a spotlight was invented. The concept or idea of shining a light on something or someone worthy of being noticed comes in handy when you find a like " fantabulous food blog Tofu is the New Black ".

Vegan and Vegetarian Blogs: The Flaming Vegan

Many celebrities have gone the way of the vegan. to name just two (see "Links of Interest" below). Taking the leap and plunging myself into a vegan diet would be unrealistic. Taking baby steps toward modifying my diet to incorporate vegan food into my meals is a much more reasonable and sensible approach.

My Favorite Chinese TV Chefs

Growing up in my day (the 50s, 60s, and 70s) there were hardly any TV programs with cooks and chefs that taught you how to be a kitchen diva. But nowadays there are television networks wholly devoted to the topic of cooking techniques, sharing recipes and food diversity or world cuisine. Cooking shows are also all over YouTube. My husband searches for cooking videos. But I liked watching the public broadcast channels (like PBS) or the cooking channels on cable TV such as FoodNetwork.

These are my four favorite Chinese chefs.

1. Martin Yan
2. Ming Tsai
3. Ching He Huang
4. Kylie Kwong

Ever heard of them or watched their shows?

* * *

#1 Martin Yan (“Remember! If Yan can cook, you can too!”)

“Back before the rise of the food-TV contests, the artificially heightened drama, the cult of the celebrity chef—there was a guy on PBS, armed with a wok, a cleaver, and a good sense of humor, just showing people how to cook.”https://t.co/lKSn5cPe4X

— epicurious (@epicurious) August 24, 2019

#2 Ming Tsai (in his early days with his mom)

The 10 Dishes That Made My Career: Ming Tsai ~ https://t.co/a8obQlSnEK via @flipboard ~ #favorites #favoriteTVchefs #cooksandchefs #Chinesechefs #Asianchefs #TVchefs #MingTsai #foodandcooking #cookingshows #foodanddrink #foodies #foodlovers

— EverydayExoticSpices (@EverydaySpices) August 31, 2019

#3 Ching He Huang (She attended school but it is said she is self-taught.)  She was such a good chef they invited her to come to America to do a TV show. ~ “Easy Chinese San Francisco” with Ching He Huang

Cooking Chinese with Ching He Huang and Amoy sauces | Eat Cook Explore ~ https://t.co/91bO4nEGj7 via @flipboard ~ #favorites #favoriteTVchefs #cooksandchefs #Chinesechefs #Asianchefs #TVchefs #ChingHeHuang #foodandcooking #cookingshows #foodanddrink #foodies #foodlovers

— EverydayExoticSpices (@EverydaySpices) August 31, 2019

#4 Kylie Kwong (She’s a popular Australian-Chinese chef)

Kylie Kwong recipes | Gourmet Traveller ~ https://t.co/AK80JzNC0J ~ Image is No 2 of 14: XO fried rice ~ #favorites #favoriteTVchefs #cooksandchefs #Chinesechefs #Asianchefs #TVchefs #KylieKwong #foodandcooking #cookingshows #foodanddrink #foodies #foodlovers pic.twitter.com/wznbjHSOCZ

— EverydayExoticSpices (@EverydaySpices) August 31, 2019

Mark Your Calendars for November 1st to Celebrate World Vegan Day!

Happy World Vegan Day to all of those who are vegans. World Vegan Day has been celebrated every year on November 1st since 1994. 

To my vegan friends, I know that you are dedicated and committed to encouraging everyone to convert to a plant-based diet. Although I must confess that I have not fully crossed over, some significant changes have been made in my diet that you would be proud of. When it comes to being a vegan, in America (especially if you live in beef-eating Texas), it’s a challenge.

Celebrity Vegans:  Senator Cory Booker

There are many celebrities in the entertainment business who tout their vegan diet and try to influence others to make that change. I consider politicians a “type of celebrity” and they can also be influencers. However, Senator Cory Booker insists that he would never use his official public position to try to convert anyone else. Nevertheless, kudos to Cory Booker, an African-American Senator who is currently running for President in the 2020 Election. He is an outstanding role model, a shining example and proof positive that becoming a vegan is definitely doable. I mean … African-Americans are not known for preparing vegan-oriented meals. For him to make that kind of dietary change, it could not have been easy. Go bro!

Fast Food Restaurants in USA Should Have More Vegan Dishes

As I said, I have not fully changed over to a vegan or plant-based diet but it’s not for lack of recipes. Many of my online vegan friends share their recipes for breakfast, lunch, dinner, desserts, and snacks that you can make for yourself at home. But what about eating out? Like most Americans, I often eat at fast-food restaurants. I am of the opinion that it certainly wouldn’t hurt for America’s fast-food restaurants to add some vegan dishes to their menu. I know that it can be done because Wendy’s restaurants in India have paneer on their menu. They don’t have that in the USA. But they could and they should. If they did I would order it when I’m going through the drive-through! LOL.

Buddha Bowls Make Switching to Vegan Easy

My significant other is a YouTube junkie and he loves watching the cooking videos. Since we share the same bedroom I usually end up watching those videos with him. There is a wonderful YT channel called Tish Wonders and in one of her instructional videos, she prepares 3 mouthwatering Buddha Bowls. Her last recipe is my favorite. I personally believe that for someone to make the transition to a vegan diet, starting out by eating Buddha bowls for lunch or dinner is the best way! It’s an opinion, of course. But a very reasonable opinion. Don’t you agree?

Final Tip About Becoming Vegan

Changing over to a vegan diet is a good thing. But some people might make unhealthy decisions. Carrie Forrest, MPH in Nutrition, published a very informative article about 8 vegan diet dangers and she cautions that one of them is irreversible. Before making any major diet and nutrition changes, you may want to seek professional medical advice.

Image credit: glitter-graphics.com

Original Source

Irresistible Party Food: Deviled Eggs Recipes for Halloween

It's that time of the year again. Are you making your final preparations to celebrate the Halloween holiday? When not working on my blogs, my online activity sometimes involves chatting with friends on myLot.com, a social network that pays you to make friends and engage in friendly banter.


A member at that site asked what would I bring to a party. My response was two things: a fruit platter and deviled eggs. The question brought back a memory about all the church fellowships I've attended and all the office parties at my old jobs. Somebody always remembered to bring deviled eggs and that tray was usually the first party food to disappear! Decided to find some Halloween themed deviled eggs recipes to share. Hope you like them!!

LittleDevil Deviled Eggs (kraftrecipes.com)

Little Devil Deviled Eggs https://t.co/ToG7oZ9L9N via @flipboard #HappyHalloween #Halloween #Halloweenrecipes #foodfun #recipes

— EverydayExoticSpices (@EverydaySpices) October 10, 2019

Spooky Monster Eyes | Avocado Deviled Eggs (scatteredthoughtsofacraftymom.com)

Spooky Monster Eyes Deviled Eggs for Halloween https://t.co/V0Okyz7kSl via @flipboard #HappyHalloween #Halloween #Halloweenrecipes #foodfun #recipes #lowcarb #eggrecipes

— EverydayExoticSpices (@EverydaySpices) October 10, 2019

Halloween Deviled Spider Eggs (shockinglydelicious.com)

Halloween Deviled Spider Eggs https://t.co/v7vEuSRvQD via @flipboard #HappyHalloween #Halloween #Halloweenrecipes #foodfun #funfood #recipes #lowcarb #eggrecipes

— EverydayExoticSpices (@EverydaySpices) October 10, 2019

Halloween Deviled Eggs-4 ideas (happierthanapiginmud.blogspot.com)

Halloween Deviled Eggs-4 ideas https://t.co/OTv0I3wYNa via @flipboard #HappyHalloween #Halloween #Halloweenrecipes #foodfun #recipes #lowcarb #eggrecipes

— EverydayExoticSpices (@EverydaySpices) October 10, 2019

Halloween Food: Green Goblin Deviled Eggs | Fluster Buster

Halloween Food Idea: Green Goblin Deviled Eggs https://t.co/tS91ZQMsdK via @flipboard #HappyHalloween #Halloween #Halloweenrecipes #foodfun #funfood #partyfood #recipes #lowcarb #eggrecipes

— EverydayExoticSpices (@EverydaySpices) October 10, 2019

Doubly Deviled Eggs - Rachael Ray Every Day

(NOTE:  This page is LOADED with deviled eggs recipes.)

Doubly Deviled Eggs https://t.co/IZhmDJexb5 via @flipboard #HappyHalloween #Halloween #Halloweenrecipes #foodfun #funfood #partyfood #recipes #lowcarb #eggrecipes

— EverydayExoticSpices (@EverydaySpices) October 10, 2019

Halloween GIF found at glitter-graphics.com




© Photographer: Pratchaya Leelapatchayanont | Agency: Dreamstime.com

Popular Diets. Which is Best? French, Greek or Japanese?

Eat like zee French!  NO!  Like the Greek!  No No!  Like the Japanese!  

• Some say eat like the French. They knosh on cheese, drink red wine by the gallon, and cook with butter. They say it’s a healthy diet.

• Some say eat like the Greeks. It’s that Mediterranean diet. They use lots of olive oil and eat yogurt. It’s a healthy diet.

• Finally, others say we should eat like the Japanese. They claim the Japanese people live longer because they eat a lot of fish and pickle their vegetables.

Which country's diet have you copied?  Or do you just eat whatever is put on the table and ask no questions?

America’s food scene reflects a lot of cultural diversity so I can eat French, Greek, or Japanese. I don’t know if it will help me live longer, but the food sure does taste good! ☺

• Popular Diets of the World: The French Diet
• Why a Greek diet is considered Best in the World – Greek City Times
• How to Eat Like a Japanese Person | Time

♦

Content first published at Virily.com

Whilst we can't travel, what French food do you crave the most?! I'll try to source a recipe for your taste of France at home... Today: Tarte Flambee AKA Flammekueche...https://t.co/OzrObzrpSM#francechezvous #thegoodlifefrance pic.twitter.com/HZZMF7l5sx

— The Good Life France (@lifefrance) March 25, 2020

Exploring the French food scene in Palm Beach, Florida. Visit these standout restaurants and you’ll feel transported right back to France.https://t.co/JtQiYIkm4a#recipe #food #foodie #travel #PalmBeach #Florida #Frenchfood #foodphotography #foodmagazine #coqauvin pic.twitter.com/M3GFHyZufX

— France Today (@FranceToday) February 4, 2020

The best of French food at your fingertips? Magnifique! Sign up to our weekly newsletter for recipes, restaurant recommendations and culinary news from France! https://t.co/ghrnD6jo3A pic.twitter.com/SqWbkG9bWY

— Taste of France (@_TasteofFrance_) November 28, 2019

Greek tzatziki sauce - it’s a great addition to your BBQ!

Made with yogurt, cucumber, garlic + olive oil.

RECIPE: https://t.co/7qABOXD1fF#Greek #food pic.twitter.com/2WzJcownnx

— Louisa Clements (@Living_Lou) August 27, 2019

Today is our Independence Day here in Greece as well as the Annunciation and traditionally we cook fried cod & serve it with a garlic dip ?￰ﾟﾒﾕ?￰ﾟﾇﾷ
For the fried cod https://t.co/kI4Vbxrdsz
For the garlic dip ➡️https://t.co/VoujfZEdaT#lcookt #GreekIndependenceDay #recipe pic.twitter.com/Nqd2GIYOsI

— Little Cooking Tips - Greek Food Blog (@LittleCookingT) March 25, 2020

Feta Cheese in Olive Oil and Herbs https://t.co/QiTEV8ol8i pic.twitter.com/3M2SGdobGi

— Foodzesty (@sophie19621) September 23, 2019

12 Traditional Greek dishes and food you have to try
https://t.co/IuPENKZLyw via @flipboard #Greekfood #recipes #cooking #food #worldcuisines

— EverydayExoticSpices (@EverydaySpices) March 26, 2020

Season 3-3 Kushiage & Wasabi Chicken - BENTO EXPO | NHK WORLD-JAPAN On Demand https://t.co/lUkRmRXTFQ @NHKWORLD_News #Bento #cookingvideos #japanesefood #worldcuisines #chickenrecipes #dinner #lunchtime pic.twitter.com/b1BT19e8AQ

— EverydayExoticSpices (@EverydaySpices) March 26, 2020

Deep friend Japanese fish #recipehttps://t.co/F5CpP0YR5K pic.twitter.com/PIdfwIShsB

— Cooktube (@CooktubeIndia) August 23, 2017

Easy Japanese Pickled Vegetables (How to Recipe) - Cooking View - https://t.co/XNR4cSYFz4 pic.twitter.com/myWg143QZu

— CookingView (@cookingviewcom) September 5, 2019

Taste of the Islands - TV Cooking Show on PBS

Finally! Singing the Hallelujah chorus. AGAIN!

This time all the rejoicing is because of a food TV show.

We relocated to Austin, Texas in 1998 and my mate's first observation about living in this land-locked part of the state was that the city was missing a good Bahamian restaurant or at least someplace that serves dishes that look like island food!

Once we got cable TV hooked up and got settled in, his next complaint was that the #food channels didn't have a good cooking show to teach people how to prepare common island meals.

In 2015, his prayer was finally answered.  Although the series did not last for very long.  But it was fun while it lasted!

Our public television station (PBS) airs a show called “Taste the Islands”. Chef Irie (real name Hugh Sinclair) lives in South Florida but is from Jamaica.

My mate is from The Bahamas.

Close enough!





 
We're both very happy.
For now.  :)

* * * * * * PBS – Celebrating Food & Cooking

Similar posts:

• Experiencing the Joy of Salsa
• Love Me Some Nachos! (archived copy)
• Indian Food – Myth or Fact

Taste of the Islands first published at Persona Paper, Jul 20, 2015.

Gifts for Tea Lovers : Do you Like Pretty Teapots?

Do you often find yourself reflecting back on many fond childhood memories? Many children, especially little girls, can probably remember having a tea party. My big sister had a blue and white tea set, and she enjoyed pretending we were having a tea party. I wasn’t allowed to play with the toy dishes by myself since they were breakable. 

So when I wasn’t playing with my sister, my other memory is of playing with clay. What was an easy thing to make with clay? A teapot with teacups and saucers (which my sister taught me how to make). My clay creations did not look as pretty as her teapot, cups, and saucers. But creating those clay teapots encouraged my appreciation for pretty teapots.

Yixing is an area in China referred to as the Pottery Capital of China. The name (義兴) translated into English means “righteousness and prosperity”. The Yixing clay teapots date back to 1500 (or possibly 1300). A Chinese potter is to be credited for this invention; however, historical records do not provide a name. Originally made for individual use, they were molded from a single sheet of purple clay. Rather than use a separate drinking vessel, i.e., a cup, people often drank directly from the teapot. 

At first, the design was simple, but later evolved into artistic creations. That was the beginning. In the late 1600s to early 1700s, teapots were exported to Europe. Eventually, the Europeans began to make their own. The earliest example of fine British tea-ware “may have been Josiah Wedgwood’s improved cream-coloured earthenware, which was introduced in the 1760s”. (Quote Source)


* More reading on the history and design of the teapot.


Nowadays, teapots are commonplace and can be found in most homes all around the world. In fact, I think that the perfect gift for anyone is a lovely teapot or a tea set.


What about you? Do you fancy pretty teaware?

Click here.

Would You Eat Food Not Grown on Planet Earth?

Have you ever thought that:

“Plants grown on other planets may be tastier than Earth veggies.”

Obviously, this thought has crossed someone’s mind.

Per my non-scientific observation and logic, none of the other planets even have trees! Why would anybody think the soil on Mars or Jupiter would be good for planting and harvesting fruits and vegetables? (O.o)

Nevertheless, ignoring the obvious scientific fact about the lack of trees, according to an interesting article published by Popular Science, there are working teams of scientists exploring the possibilities of farming Mars or growing plants on Jupiter.

The article is a fascinating read. Couldn’t help but note that when discussing or even imagining the possibilities of growing plants elsewhere in the universe, they used the term “Earth-like planet”.

They have already conducted some experiments utilizing soil that is similar to that of Mars, and it seems that “Martian berries will be tasty”. Not only that, but another experiment indicated that “fries cooked on Jupiter would be the best in the solar system”.

To me, this is all the stuff of fiction, like that 2015 movie, “The Martian” which starred Matt Damon.   The most interesting (and humorous) takeaway was what was deemed a crucial focus of all of this scientific experimentation. Forget about berries and fries. This is the really important question, and it’s a direct quote from the PS article.

“So how do we identify known exoplanets as potential future homes for great-tasting chocolate?”

Really?

* * *
Reference:

• Flook, Jamie. “Could Foods Taste Better On Other Planets Than They Do On Earth?” Popular Science, Bonnier Corporation, 22 Sept. 2015

Source: Virily.com

A Large Order of Jupiter Fries, Please!

In movies, people can grow food on a planet other than earth. But it's "fiction". Not science. However, some scientists are serious about experimenting with plants growing in soil similar to the kind of dirt one would find on Mars or Jupiter.

Practical Food Storage Tips to Avoid Waste

Countless consumer reports indicate that Americans waste a lot of food. Sadly, even during the coronavirus pandemic, food was wasted. In defense of the consumer Americans, there was a breakdown in the supply and delivery logistics. Fortunately, a few smart young folks got together with the farmers and fixed the problem. (Not-for-profit FarmLink.)

For many, the food gets wasted because they just don't know how to store the food properly. Like the typical mom, I always told my kids not to waste food. They don’t always listen, and sometimes they throw away food that could have been given away. Ah well! They can never accuse me of not practicing what I preach. I do my best to store food properly so that it does not spoil or waste. Below are a few practical tips for food storage.

♦

Do you have a particular food storage method you use a lot? (Freezing, canning, dehydration, etc.)

Content previously published on Virily

Rethink Your Food Storage with these tips to manage your food inventory — and waste (and spend!) less. Avoid #foodwaste. #practicaltips for #storingfood #GoodHousekeeping https://t.co/D1xiqBKo1g pic.twitter.com/R0H46Oibtc

— EverydayExoticSpices (@EverydaySpices) May 9, 2020

How Long You Can Freeze Everything, In One Chart | HuffPost Life https://t.co/Y8928Oyig5 ~ Avoid #foodwaste. #practicaltips for #storingfood @EverydaySpices pic.twitter.com/W0j6X6euvx

— Treathyl Fox (aka cmoneyspinner) ~ #Freelancer (@cmoneyspinner) September 29, 2019

You've Probably Been Storing These 11 Foods Wrong this Whole Time https://t.co/xGvl6sFa2M via @flipboard~ Avoid #foodwaste. #practicaltips for #storingfood @EverydaySpices pic.twitter.com/vGMDxMHBME

— Treathyl Fox (aka cmoneyspinner) ~ #Freelancer (@cmoneyspinner) September 29, 2019

36 Easy Tips That Will Keep Your Food Fresh And Save You Money https://t.co/mb3oJThz2F ~ Avoid #foodwaste. #practicaltips for #storingfood pic.twitter.com/dBz7W2h2Gm

— EverydayExoticSpices (@EverydaySpices) May 9, 2020

19 Food Storage Tips to Make Your Groceries Last Longer https://t.co/0Z5KLwtL6p ~ Avoid #foodwaste. #practicaltips for #storingfood @EverydaySpices pic.twitter.com/lIvy5HFIon

— Treathyl Fox (aka cmoneyspinner) ~ #Freelancer (@cmoneyspinner) September 29, 2019

20 Food Storage Tips for Your Groceries and Leftovers You Must Try! https://t.co/jkLGsevs1d via @flipboard ~ Avoid #foodwaste. #practicaltips for #storingfood @EverydaySpices

— Treathyl Fox (aka cmoneyspinner) ~ #Freelancer (@cmoneyspinner) September 29, 2019

Food Storage Tips https://t.co/4wusQgQPOf via @howstuffworks ~ Avoid #foodwaste. #practicaltips for #storingfood @EverydaySpices pic.twitter.com/OzXwaHlVkQ

— Treathyl Fox (aka cmoneyspinner) ~ #Freelancer (@cmoneyspinner) September 29, 2019

The Complete Guide to Drying Foods at Home: Everything You Need to Know About Preparing, Storing, and Consuming Dried Foods (Back to Basics) Kindle Edition https://t.co/hEs5ltuUBL ~ Avoid #foodwaste. #practicaltips for #storingfood pic.twitter.com/n82L1t2Jfr

— EverydayExoticSpices (@EverydaySpices) May 9, 2020

800+ Organized Canning Recipes for Winter Storage ~ Avoid #foodwaste. #practicaltips for #storingfood https://t.co/MBJ4O8KZ5x pic.twitter.com/raDeGEOyHT

— EverydayExoticSpices (@EverydaySpices) May 9, 2020