Gluten Free English Muffins using Aldi's GF Flour Mix

     As you may have figured out already by now, I'm not a big fan of Gluten Free baking flour mixes. During my early days of food allergy living, most of those box mixes had caused me so much meltdown episodes (you can check my earlier posts) that I thought I'll end up in a rehab or mental facility.  I'm not kidding and exaggerating! For those who need to bake gluten, dairy, egg, nut and soy free, I'm sure you can totally understand.  

     After hundreds of dollars spent trying out mixes and to save my sanity, I finally decided to just start my flour collection and experiment in my kitchen which the kids eventually began calling "The Lab".  I found that a lot better since I don't have to compare the end result to the one beautifully pictured on the boxes.  Plus, I now know where to buy these gluten free flour at a bargain.  

     Once in a while though, I can't help but challenge myself to press my luck on baking with pre made Gluten free mixes especially if it's a newly introduced product. As long as the ingredient list agrees with our dietary requirements, I'm now glad to test a product.  Even if the instructions clearly state eggs or dairy, I would readily attempt to use my dairy and egg substitutes.  

      Earlier this year, Aldi has launched a gluten free line called Live GFree.  With all the buzz that hit the GF community, I got really curious.  Though not all of the products in that line are Top 8 free, there were some that our family can have (egg, dairy, nut & soy free too).  One of those I've tried is this Gluten Free Baking Mix.

       Though there are recipes found on the back of the box, I'm sorry to inform you that after several attempts, I was not able to successfully achieve great results.  I think the main reason for that is my inability to use real eggs.  By now, I already accepted the fact that in gluten and egg free baking, one can't just use substitutes and expect the same outcome. More often, the original recipe has to be altered.  

       This English muffin recipe is something I call excellent mistake. At first, I was hoping to make a shortbread or biscuit.  Turned out, I got something better.  

Ingredients:

2 cups Aldi's Gluten Free Baking Mix

3 Tbs. ground flaxseed

9 Tbs. hot water

1/3 cup Spectrum shortening or Earth Balance Soy free Buttery Spread (room temperature)

1 Tbs. melted Earth Balance Buttery Spread

2/3 cup non dairy milk (I use flax milk)

2 tsp. apple cider vinegar

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with silpat or parchment paper.
2. Mix the apple cider vinegar in the non dairy milk to make a non dairy "buttermilk".  Let it stand for 5 minutes before using.
3. Combine the flax and hot water to make flax goo. Wait for 5 minutes before using.
4. Using a big fork or 2 butter knives, cut the shortening into the mix until it has a sand like consistency.
5. Slowly whisk in the flax goo and "buttermilk" to the flour and shortening mix.
6. Form about 1/4 cup of batter into balls.
7. Arrange the dough balls on the prepared baking sheet.
8. With the bottom of a mug or glass, flatten to about 1/2 inch thick.
9. Brush with melted buttery spread.
10. Bake in the oven for 13-16 minutes.
     

      Tada!  Here's the end product.  As you can see, it has all the nooks and crannies a good English muffin has. Since the taste is very neutral, it works well with both savory and sweet fillings. The kids enjoy it as a sandwich bun too.  

      Have you ever had a recipe that didn't turn out the way you wanted and created something way better instead?  Love to hear your story too.

       Enjoy the week.

- Roz

Friday Freebies: Ebooks and Giveaways

     It's Friday once again and you know what that means --- Freebies!  I know it's been a while since I last posted my ebook finds.  Would you like to know why?  Well, for weeks now, I am working on getting more free stuff for you.  Eventually, you will notice the changes every Friday and for sure you will be excited.  

     For starters, have you joined the Free Bag of Javazen Coffee Blend giveaway already?  It's ending at 12 midnight later.  If you haven't, click here and it will bring you directly to the blog post. 

      There's also an ongoing giveaway sponsored by the Gluten and Allergen Free Expo.  As you may have known, I am one of the official bloggers for the Secaucus, NJ event on September 6 and 7.  This year, I have four (4) adult admission tickets up for grabs.  Head on to this post if you would like to join me there.  

       Now, for the main event. Here's my list of free ebooks for today. Hurry up before the prices go up. 

- Roz      

                 



Disclosure:  
      I'm a part of Amazon's Affiliate program.  Some of the links on this post will bring you directly to Amazon.com. 

Easy Pizza Recipe - Gluten, Egg, Soy, Dairy and Nut Free

      Oh Pizza!  What would the world be without you?  This simple yet well loved concoction of dough, sauce and cheese has become a staple in almost every children's parties and school activities.  

      I can still remember my kids' reaction when I first told them about their food allergies. "No wheat and dairy!  That means we can't have pizza anymore?" "What will happen if there are parties?"

       Trying not to be defeated, I promised my children that we will make our own. I told them that I will look for recipes and they have to tell me which one is the best.  That conversation was about four years ago.  After countless testings and experiments, we were finally able to agree which one will be our favorite and reliable pizza recipe.

       For starters, making your own pizza isn't complicated at all.  After all, a pizza is just composed of these:
     

1.The Crust

     If you ask me what is the most important ingredient in a pizza, my answer will be hands down the Crust.  Whether you like it thin and crispy, thick and chewy, nothing turns me and my kids off a pie than a soggy or teeth breaking crust.  

    Over the years, I've tried quite a number of gluten free pizza dough mixes and even tried making some from scratch from the recipes I've seen online. Though my kids were happy to eat whatever I make, some crusts came out cracker like or worse, slimy in the middle.  Finally, we had our favorite which is King Arthur's Gluten Free Bread and Pizza mix.  Just follow the instructions on the side of the box to the tee.

      Here's the list of ingredients I used:
      1 box King Arthur Gluten Free Bread & Pizza Crust Mix
      1 1/4 cups lukewarm water
      4 Tbs. olive oil + additional 4 Tbs. of olive oil for pans and drizzle
      3 Tbs. ground flax seed
      9 Tbs. hot water

    Since we can't have eggs (the ingredient required on the box), I use flax goo (flax seed and water mentioned above) as the substitute. That's the brown flecks on the picture.  I like using flax because it adds extra protein and nutrients to my dough as well.

      Preparing the dough usually takes about a full hour.  That includes the proofing time. The good news is that,  once the crust was pre-baked (the first baking before you add the toppings), it can be frozen for future use.  Oh before I forget, one box of King Arthur's GF Pizza mix will give you enough for two thin pie crusts.


         Here's what the dough looks like after mixing.  It puffs up a bit after the resting period.     

2. The Sauce

        This is one of the easiest part.  I don't need to complicate things by looking for a gluten, soy, dairy, egg and nut free pizza sauce.  Your favorite Marinara sauce works well.  I often have homemade ones in the freezer but I also stock up.  Our go to brands are Wegman's Organic Marinara and Simply Nature from Aldi's.  

3. The Cheese

         One of the trickiest as nothing beats the flavor of the regular dairy ones.  After so much trials and errors, I found out that the Daiya one works best.  To achieve that complex flavor, I would use  three varieties.  Usually, it's the Mozzarella, Jack and Cheddar.  A little goes a long way so there's no need to panic and finish 3 packages for 1 or 2 pies.  

4. The Toppings

      From grilled chicken to canned pineapples, our choices for toppings are endless. If we are having pizza at home, we tend to get more creative.  Oftentimes, we use all the leftovers in the fridge.  For school parties, we usually stick to the basics.  Some of the kids' favorite includes Applegate Farms Salami or Pepperoni and Wegman's Organic Turkey or Ham. 

        

        So, that's my easy recipe.  As long as you got the pantry ingredients and the pre-baked crust on hand, whipping up a pizza for a party or school activity is a breeze.  I hope you will find this handy as the kids go back to school.  

 - Roz       

           

Gluten and Allergen Free Expo 2014 in NJ Ticket Giveaway

    A few more days and it's September! You know what that means right? The Gluten and Allergen Free Expo is back in New Jersey. 

     For those who are not aware of this extraordinary affair, the GFAF Expo is the largest and fastest growing special diet consumer event in the US.  If you are in the Tri-State area, I suggest you block the dates Sept. 6 and 7, 2014 now and schedule to go to The Meadowlands in Secaucus, New Jersey. I promise you, it is worth every effort.  That's coming from someone who had attended both days of the expo.  

     So, what makes the GFAF Expo really special especially to us who are dealing with food allergies and gluten intolerance? Well, the $15 adult day pass ($3 for kids) will give you access to:

1. Over 150 vendor booth exhibitors.  Click for the full list.

      You'll be amazed how many companies are actually catering to our special needs.  From cereals, breads, snacks to make up, mobile apps and even beers, the whole day isn't enough to check all of them.  

2. Free Product Samples

         Have you ever seen a gluten free or food allergy product on the store shelves but is hesitant to buy because you're not sure if it is worth the extra cost? Well, you're in luck! Almost all the vendors at the expo have samples for you to try their products for FREE. Last year, I was so stuffed that I didn't need to eat morning snack, lunch and even after snack during the event.  The best part is that you are most welcome to bring the samples home. 

3. Coupons and Discounted Prices

      I don't know about you but finding coupons for food allergy friendly coupons are very challenging.  In fact, you'll barely any on the Sunday paper.  Sure you can print some online one time or twice. That's it.  During the expo, the exhibitors are really generous in giving out their coveted coupons. There are even some vendors who directly sell their products at a huge discount. 

        Last year, I did major grocery shopping at the GFAF Expo. There were products sold at 20-50% off the retail price!  Just a little tip. If you would like to shop, bring cash with you because some vendors don't have access to credit card processing.  

4. Informative Classes 

        As part of your admission ticket, you will have access to free classes from selected experts on the field of food allergy and gluten free living.  Check out the time and schedule here.  

5. Meet the Authors and Company Representatives

      Do you have a favorite gluten free or food allergy author?  Have you ever tried to reach a certain company?  This is your chance to personally meet them. You'll be able to get answers immediately and even have a selfie with them.  

        Want to meet me in person? As an official blogger, I will be there too.  Though most of the time, I'll be going from one vendor to the next to cover the event, I'm more than happy to meet you there. Just send me a quick message so that I can keep you posted where I am at a particular time. Also, let's connect twitter.    

          So, are you getting excited to go to the GFAF Expo this year? I have not one but two treats for you.  First, you can enjoy a 20% discount on an admission ticket just for being my friend. Simply use the coupon code EXPONJ20 when you purchase a ticket online. 

         The next one is that I am giving away a FREE admission ticket to 4 lucky friends!

         What are you waiting for?   Let's me up soon. 

- Roz

           

      

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Asian Style Ratatouille Recipe using World Foods Fusion of Taste Sauces

    Our family loves trying ethnic food.  Before the children were diagnosed with food allergies, Sundays usually meant food adventure. We would go to church early at 8 in the morning so that we can drive around and look for an usual restaurant. The kids grew up trying new cuisine --- Indian, Chinese, Thai, Vietnamese, Afgan, Greek, Italian, Polish etc.  As long as the food tastes good, they are happy.  

     After we found out that food allergies are to blame for their constant coughing, asthma attacks, eczema and stomach problems, our food trips almost stopped.  Yes, we still get to eat out. However, it became very limited.  Often times, just once a month and each restaurant must be carefully scrutinized before we go.     

     Since most of our meals are now home cooked, I try my best to make it more exciting by preparing international themed dishes.  I confess, I now have an tremendous obsession with spices, herbs and even flours that my kids now call our kitchen, The Lab. 

     Anyway, cooking from scratch has become a way of life for me.  I admit, it is a tedious process but it leaves me no choice because it is quite difficult to find packaged seasonings or sauces that would be go with my family's multiple food allergies. Then recently, as a Moms Meet Ambassador, I was asked to try WorldFoods Sauces and Marinades.  

       

     When I first heard about WorldFoods products, I can't help but go their website and check.  I mean, it is too good to be true. Their FREE from Range of sauces and marinades were carefully made with 100 percent, fresh natural ingredients and authentic herbs and spices.  It is also free of added oil, trans fat, artificial ingredients, preservatives, coloring or food flavor enhancers. There are no GMOs and the best part, no hidden allergens like peanuts, nuts (except coconut), dairy, gluten, egg, soy, fish and shellfish.  Yes, it is Top 8 safe.  

    After trying the 4 types of sauces they sent me to try, I have to say, these Asian style sauces are a blessing!  Not only are they allergy friendly, it makes regional food really easy and convenient. The flavors are very accurate too. (I'm an Asian remember?)  My kids love that the sauces and marinades are delicious and not too spicy like most restaurants have. For those who like it on the hotter side like me, a pinch of cayenne pepper should do the trick.  They are nice to have on hand especially on days I need to whip up something fast.

 

    

      That's me photobombing the Indonesian Fried Rice paste.  Just to let you know, I don't work for World Foods.  More so, there's no endorsement contract between us. :)

    Anyway, here's a quick recipe inspired by my children's current DVD obsession - Disney's Ratatouille.  This simple and easy dish is made with just summer vegetables and World Foods Thai Coconut Galangal Stir Fry Sauce.

      Happy cooking!

- Roz
         

  

Ingredients:

2 Tbs. canola oil
1 Tbs. minced garlic
1/3 cup chopped onions
1 cup chopped tomatoes
1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
3 cups chopped zucchini
3 cups chopped yellow squash
2 cups chopped eggplant
1 12 oz. bottle World Foods Thai Coconut Galangal Stir Fry Sauce
1 tsp. sea salt
1 Tbs. chopped fresh parsley

1. In a big skillet, heat oil.
2. Saute the onions, garlic and tomatoes for 4 minutes.
3. Add the red bell pepper, yellow squash, zucchini and eggplant.  Saute for 4 minutes.
4. Pour the Thai Coconut Galangal Sauce over the vegetables.  Mix well.  Bring to a boil.
5. Season with 1/2 a tsp. of salt. Taste to make sure you have enough salt.  Depending on how much water the vegetables have, you might need to add the remaining 1/2 tsp of salt.
6. Simmer for 5 minutes or until the texture of the vegetables is to your liking.
7. Turn of heat and add the chopped parsley.
8. Serve hot with steamed rice or quinoa.
9. Enjoy!

Disclaimer:  I received this product for free from the sponsor of MOMS Meet Program, May Media Group, LLC, who received it directly from the manufacturer.  As a MOMS Meets blogger, I agreed to use this product and post my opinion on my blog.  My opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of May Media Group LLC or the manufacturer of the product.

Gluten Free Banana, Cinnamon and Oat Muffins

     I can't believe the back to school craze is already in full swing. Three more weeks and another routine will come about.  What's the biggest change? My beloved Child #4, my baby, is going to Kindergarten this year! Yup, all four children will be out of the house.  Finally!

   Before I get too emotional, I would like to share with you the kids' all time favorite Banana, Cinnamon and Oat Muffins.  This recipe has gone through several ingredient changes until we, as a family, decided on the best one. Don't be afraid of the multiple steps.  The extra dishes are totally worth it.

    These muffins are are moist, light and really healthy. The flax seed and milk are not only rich in protein but omega 3's as well.  Sorghum is not only gluten free, it is also an excellent source of fiber, thiamine, niacin, riboflavin and trace minerals like iron, phosphorus and potassium. Convinced already?

   Also, by keeping the sugar content as low as possible and relying on the sweetness of the bananas, I was able to make this a delicious breakfast treat.  It's portable and a nice addition to packed lunches and after school snacks.  Top it with some frosting, powdered sugar or melted chocolate and you'll have a better for you, food allergy safe cupcakes. Sounds good?

  The recipe yields about 18 standard sized muffins which stay good for 2-3 days at room temperature.  I'm sure you can easily freeze some for future snacks.  In my household though, a batch just lasts for a day.  That's how much they love it.

    Hope you'll get to enjoy this yummy and healthy muffins soon.  If you have any questions, just let me know through the comment section below or send me a message.  I'm more than happy to answer them.

     Enjoy the weekend.

- Roz      
    

Ingredients:

1 cup sorghum flour
1/2 cup oat flour (gluten free of course)
1/4 cup tapioca starch
1/3 cup potato starch
1 Tbs. baking powder
1/2 tsp. baking soda
2 tsp. ground cinnamon
1 tsp. ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp. sea salt (fine)
1/2 cup organic cane juice (sugar)
1/4 cup avocado oil (you can also use canola or sunflower oil)
2 Tbs. ground flax seed
6 Tbs. lukewarm water
1 cup mashed bananas (over ripe ones are the best)
1/2 cup flax milk (or any dairy or non dairy milk of your choice)
1 tsp. apple cider vinegar

1. Preheat oven to 375.  Line muffin tins with paper cups or silicone muffin cups.
2. In a small bowl, combine the flax seed and water.  Let is sit for at least 5 minutes before using.
3. Except for the sugar, put all the dry ingredients in a medium sized bowl and whisk until thoroughly mixed.  Set aside.
4. Add the vinegar to the milk and let is stand for 3 minutes to make a non dairy buttermilk.
5. In a big bowl or the bowl of a mixer, cream the oil, sugar and flax goo.
6. With the mixer running on low, alternately add the dry ingredients and non dairy buttermilk.
7. Add the bananas and mix for about 1 minute.
8. Fill prepared muffin tips with batter. Make sure to leave about 1/2 inch space on top.
9. Bake for 10 minutes.  Then reduce the oven temperature to 350 degrees and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. It is ready when a toothpick inserted in the middle of the muffin comes out clean.
10. Remove from muffin tins and cool on a baking rack.
11. Enjoy!

August 2014 Reading list

      Last stretch of summer. Before I think about and even get ready for the next school year, I would like to get some "me time" and enjoy some reading.  Okay, these aren't exactly novels that will take me to places unknown.  I chose these for inspiration, motivation and even practical tips.

    

1. The Blender Girl - Easy and healthy recipes that will make that blender work harder.  I can't wait to try those sauces and dressings. 

2. Eating Wildly - A novel and a recipe book rolled into one.  This contains more inspiration for healthy eating and living.   

3. Healthy Homemaking: One Step at a Time -  This book is loaded with tips on how to manage our household.  From practical solutions to self improvement, this book aims to help busy moms and dads from being stressed out.  

       How about you?  What are you reading this month?


 - Roz

7 Days No Sugar Challenge - Day 5

     Sugar Craving!  

     Do you believe in the saying that the body knows what it needs?  If that it true, then I can justify why my body seemed to be asking for sugar the whole day.  Even after finishing a big cup of Mango Black tea, I wasn't satisfied.  

      To answer my dessert craving, I made a Chia porridge with unsweetened applesauce, flax milk, chopped dates and lots of cinnamon.  My goal is to create something creamy, hearty, sweet and comforting.  To my delight, the end product came out good.  Okay, I confess, a hint of brown sugar could have made perfect.  But you know what?  I'm on Day 5 already so it's worth the sacrifice.  

       Lunch time, I had a nice bowl of Green Mung Bean Stew.  Lately, I have been making this recipe vegan/vegetarian by eliminating the meat and changing the chicken broth to either vegetable broth or plain water.  Even though the family is a big meat fan, we all love the new vegan version.

      At around 2 pm, my body seems to be asking for more sugar.  Since I decided earlier that I will go all out with this challenge, I forced myself not to touch any smoothie mix or protein bar I have on hand that I know has added sugar on it.  The only natural sweet thing I found in my pantry is the opened package of dried dates.  There's about 5 pieces left and I didn't hesitate to finish everything.  It was a big indulgence but it made me really happy.  We only live once right?

    Dinner time, I was not in the mood for a regular meal again.  My body was asking for something sweet again.   Guess what I found in the fridge?

      I had about 4 cups of ice cold watermelon for supper.  Even discovered how refreshing and addictive watermelon juice (yup that's the juice at the bottom of the container) can be.

       Who knew life without sugar can be sweet too?

- Roz

Javazen Coffee Blend Product Review & Giveaway

     I made it!  I survived the 7 Days No Sugar Challenge. As a thank you for staying with me and being very patient last week, I'm having a series of giveaways that I'm sure will make you excited. First off, is a special product called Javazen.

     If your mornings are not complete without a nice big cup of coffee, (make mine light and sweet) and you would like to feel good throughout the day, then I suggest you give this unique Superfood Coffee Blend a try.       

    Aside from being naturally free of gluten, dairy, egg, soy, nuts and peanuts, what makes Javazen more special than our regular cup of joe? 

The Ingredients

     Organic Coffee - Sourced from Mayorga Coffee in Maryland, the coffee beans used are 100% USDA organic and OU Certified Kosher blend from South America. 

     Organic Cocoa - It is the essence of Javazen, although it is not the overwhelming flavor note. Considered, "Food of the Gods", cocoa contains over 200 energy and mood enhancing compounds. Do you know anyone who doesn't like chocolate?

     Organic Matcha - For those who are not familiar with it, Matcha is basically 100% natural and organic green tea leaves which have been carefully ground to a fine powder. It is loaded with nutrients, vitamins and antioxidants.  Traditionally, it is a ceremonial tea drank by Buddhist monks prior to meditation in order to achieve a 'sustained calm alertness'. 

     Pine Pollen - It is a superfood that the makers of Javazen are proud to introduce to the rest of the world.  A very nutrient-dense pollen that has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine for longevity and vitality.  Javazen coffee blend contains 99% cell wall broken pollen which allows the nutrients to be absorbed more efficiently. 

     Pure Vanilla - Javazen contains real ground vanilla beans.  In order to uphold their promise of wholesome and unprocessed ingredients, they do not use any flavorings or extracts. 

              

     Organic Cinnamon - This spice is full of antioxidants.  It is also known to help enhance one's mood, keep the brain alert, speed up weight loss and even lower bad cholesterol.

   

    When I first learned about Javazen, I was really curious on what it would taste like.  As a big flavored coffee drinker, I was intrigued to find something that is not flavored with nut oils or artificial flavorings.  Kids are allergic to nuts remember?  

    Anyway, when I received my complimentary 9 oz. bag in the mail, I noticed right away that the package doesn't have any strong coffee smell.  I thought "Wow! They did pack it well."  

   The next morning, instead of going through my usual K-cup coffee selection, I took out my reusable cup for the machine and made myself a mug of Javazen.  As I got a scoop of the coffee blend, I observed that along with the granules, there are slightly bigger pieces of cocoa and light brown bits which could be the pine pollen.  When the short brew finished, I was surprised that the kitchen didn't have that overpowering smell of freshly brewed coffee. I'm sure you know that scent which sticks to your clothes and fills the entire house.  

    What I have instead is a drink which I know for sure is coffee but with a sweet hint of cinnamon.  Though I wasn't able to detect the taste of matcha (I love green tea too), I do notice the vanilla scent and flavor after a few sips. There is no bitter before and after taste as well.  Even after I add my usual cream and sugar.   

     It has been 3 weeks since I converted to Javazen.  Last week was included in the count because I did the No Sugar Challenge and honestly, I can't drink coffee without cream and sugar. Anyway prior to the diet challenge, one significant difference I felt while having Javazen everyday is the consistent level of energy I have throughout the day.  With my morning coffee, I would have a regular 5pm slump that makes crave for another cup of coffee or a bar of chocolate.  A habit that I unconsciously removed which I think helped me a lot during the No Sugar challenge.  

     For those who may be wondering if I had caffeine withdrawal symptoms when I stopped regular coffee and drank Javazen, I didn't.  It's still coffee remember?  With just the added bonus of matcha, cocoa, cinnamon, vanilla and pine pollen.  

       Did I spike your curiosity?  Well, don't worry, our generous friends from Javazen is giving a full size bag of their signature coffee to one lucky winner. Just follow the instructions below for chances to win it. This giveaway is open to US residents and ends on Aug. 23, 2014.

        What are you waiting for?  Join now.

- Roz

         

a Rafflecopter giveaway

7 Days No Sugar Challenge - Day 4

      As you know Day 3 was a crappy and miserable one for me.  After a nice 7 hours of sleep courtesy of Loratadine (generic for Claritin), I woke up early and refreshed.  To keep the mood up, I started off with a huge cup of the aromatic and flavorful Papaya and Passion Fruit Tea .  No added sweetener of course.

     While preparing our breakfast, I was surprised to find out that the Luncheon meat we had yesterday contained sugar in it.  Since it was not our usual brand and I'm only particular with my family's allergens, I forgot to check.  Was this the reason why yesterday turned out really crazy?  

      Anyway, for the past 3 days, I never had anything sweet.  As you may have noticed, all the food I ate were mostly on the savory side. Since I don't want to feel deprived and deceived (after I ate a salty lunch meat that contained sugar), I decided to be creative and make something sweet for breakfast.  

        As I gazed through the pantry, I found some gluten free original quick cooking oats and an opened pack of dried dates.  I have used dried dates in recipes such as Sticky Toffee Pudding and know how sweet it is.  After I checked the ingredient list for possible sugars, (Thank God it doesn't contain any.) I chopped 3 pieces and added it to the oatmeal and flax milk before cooking it in the microwave.  A dash of cinnamon made it extra sweet and yummy.  Yay!

       
       For lunch, my children requested their favorite homemade Burger Steak and Herbed Corn.  Since we didn't have fresh corn on hand, I opened 2 cans of corn kernels to make the easy side dish.  To my horror, even the canned corn contains sugar! Good thing there's always frozen broccoli and cauliflower in the freezer.  Oh, the kids aren't on the Sugar Challenge so they enjoyed their corn.

 

       The day seemed to be warmer than the past few days.  This made me drink twice as much strawberry and mint infused water. By dinner time, I don't feel the need for a regular meal.  That's when I gobbled about 3 cups of ice cold watermelon. Why haven't I stocked up on this fruit earlier this week?  

         Day 5 here I come.

- Roz