Organic Veri Soda Giveaway

     It's been a while since I've hosted a giveaway and I'm sure you are missing it too. Right? Well, today I have an exciting news. Our friends from Moms Meet and Veri Organic Soda have graciously sponsored a special treat just for you my TFMFriends.  

   Before I give you the details for the giveaway, I have a confession to make. While I was able to readily remove all the foods that my children were allergic to from our home, up to now, I still have a tough time giving up soda. While this carbonated drink is not really a staple in our diet, (We are the unlimited water family), there are just some meals that doesn't feel complete without it. 

    For instance, I always enjoy an icy root beer soda to go along my burger and fries. A cola tastes great with Crispy Pata (Deep fried marinated pork) or Lechon Kawali (Fried pork chunks). While Ginger ale is perfect with Chinese food.  

     I admit, my soda and food parings is my "dirty" little secret. I'm not proud to share these delicious indulgences because I'm also a big fan of healthy eating. Soda is on the contrary is the epitome of true unhealthy food. As most healthy advocates will say, enjoying the later just overthrows my good intentions.  

    This got me thinking.  Why does this bubbly treat has such a bad reputation? Then, out of the blue, I was contacted by Moms Meet to review this new brand of soda called Veri Soda.   

    At first, I was quite confused with the product. The terms "soda" and "organic" in one line doesn't seem to go hand in hand right? Soda depicts bad for the health.  While "organic" equates good for the body.  

    After I visited Veri Soda's official website, the questions lurking in my brain were answered.  Soda got its bad reputation from the ingredients used to make it.  A typical soft drink contains high fructose corn syrup, caffeine and phosphoric acid.  It is also loaded with chemical preservatives.  

    Veri Soda's mission is to make a different kind of soda with no artificial colors, aromas, flavoring or even sweeteners. They were even able to eliminate 65% of the calories without sacrificing the taste. How did they do it? By simply using the best organic ingredients which is easily seen in each can. These includes organic cane sugar, stevia extract, lemons, ginger and cinnamon.  The end result is a delicious treat without the guilt.  

     Aside from being a USDA-NOP organic certified soda, Veri Soda is caffeine free, lightly carbonated which allows us to taste the actual flavor. There's no harsh sweetness or lingering after taste like most zero calorie sodas.  It has a "low glycemic load" meaning you won't have a sugar spike or the dreaded crash after. The best part, a 12 oz can only has 60 calories! 

     Sounds good so far?  Well, for any soda drinker, the true test is the taste. There are 4 flavors of Veri Soda and our family was able to taste all of it.  Here's our consensus. In general, we found out that Veri Soda is not overly sweet. Yes, there's a hint of sweetness but not the type that will keep you thirsty and craving for more.  Surprisingly, it indeed is good both cold and at room temperature. Though I still prefer it icy cold. 

    The orange flavor was the favorite of my kids. It tastes like orange juice but with the bubbles. Since it is not extremely sweet, I didn't need to dilute it in ice.  Yes! I'm that mom.  The lemon lime I have to say is the farthest from the soda we are used to. It's not bad tasting. In fact, it is like lemonade with the bubbly.  As for the cola flavor, the die hard fans of the two leading cola brands will definitely taste the difference. It's not the same as any of the two. However, I love it.  To better describe the taste, it is close to that of root beer.  Since I'm a fan of it, then it captured my heart. Lastly, is the ginger ale. This is my favorite flavor. I can taste the ginger but in a sweet and refreshing way.  It is tasty palate cleanser especially after a greasy meal. 

     Curious to try Organic Veri Soday already? Then let me tell you about the giveaway.  2 lucky US TFM Friends will each get a coupon for a FREE 4-Pack Veri Soda. There are 4 ways to get entries - type in a comment after this post, visit our Allergy Friendly home on Facebook, follow me on Twitter, tweet about this giveaway or become a VIP TFMFriends newsletter subscriber.  Do one or all.  As always, the more entries you have, the more chances of winning.  

     The giveaway starts today and will end on April 29, 2015 11:59 EST.  

     What are you waiting for? 

      Good luck!

- Roz

(Note: I received the product for free from the sponsor of the Moms Meet program of May Media LLC, who received it directly from the manufacturer.  As  Moms Meet blogger, I agree to use this product and post my opinion on my blog. My opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of May Media LLC or the manufacturer of this product. Please see my full disclosure here.)

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Have you Tried Radha Beauty's Fractionated Coconut Oil?

     I'm not a stranger to coconut oil. Way before the coconut oil phenomenon here in the US, I was already exposed to its many uses and benefits. Just a little FYI about me, I grew up in the Philippines which coincidentally is the second largest importer of coconut oil in the old. (Wink!)

     Anyway, when the people at Radha Beauty asked me to try and review their Fractionated Coconut Oil, I was really excited. Before this opportunity, I admit I haven't really used the "fractionated" version.  In fact, I have no clue what it is. Do you?

     If you're not familiar with fractionated coconut oil, here are some basic information about it. One, fractionated or liquid coconut oil is highly refined or saturated. It underwent a distillation process wherein some of its components (triglycerides) were removed. The result is a more shelf stable type of coconut oil which stays liquid in spite of temperature changes. Due to its stability and rancidity resistance, this type of coconut oil is the one commonly used in cosmetics, hair care products, aromatherapy and medicines.

     When I received my bottle of Radha Beauty Fractionated Coconut oil, the first thing I noticed was the absence of the distinctive coconut smell. I remembered smelling like dessert for a few days after my grandma used coconut oil to deep condition my hair as a child. Yes, my hair was soft, shiny and really straight. The downside was it also smelled yummy too. Geezz! So, when I reached my teens, even though I already know how great my hair becomes after applying coconut oil on it, I preferred to stay away.

    Since Radha Beauty's Fractionated Coconut oil is odorless and colorless, I didn't hesitate to use it on my hair and daughters.  Child#1's hair is quite oily so I only applied it to the tips of her hair.   Child#2's hair however, is really thick and tends to easily get damaged.  It also easily gets tangled. After 2 weeks of use, here's a photo of her hair.

      Now her hair is very manageable, soft and tangle free. She is currently growing her hair so the ends are uneven. Though she hasn't had a trim in about a year, her locks are still split ends free.

      Radha Beauty's fractionated coconut oil is also an excellent skin moisturizer. The past winter here in New Jersey was brutal on my skin. For the first time, my hands were cracking.  After using this product for a week, my hands surprisingly healed and is now very soft.  I love that it is not greasy and is easily absorbed by the skin. In fact, instead of lotion, this is now my after shower moisturizer.

      Getting curious already? Why don't you give Radha Beauty'sFractionated Coconut Oil  a try? A 16 ounce bottle is currently on sale for $13.89. That's a $36 savings! Plus, you can get free shipping if you're an Amazon Prime member or if your order is at least $35. Oh, Radha Beauty also gives a 100% lifetime guarantee. If you don't love it, just let them know and they will give you a full product refund. Isn't that sweet?

      Give it a try too and let me know what you think?

- Roz
(Note: I received a free product to use for this review. My opinions about the product however, is not affected by this.  Whatever I wrote is based fully on my experiences and my goal is to give you a review that's completely honest.  Please see my full disclosure here. )

Making Life a Little Sweeter without the Guilt

      One of my goals for this year is to use less sugar. I have to say, it is quite a challenge because I do have a sweet tooth.  That's why when I was asked to try Organic SweetLeaf Stevia by Moms Meet, I immediately grabbed the opportunity.  

      Here are some of the things about SweetLeaf Stevia that got me really curious:

• It is Certified Organic, zero calorie sweetener made from high-quality Stevia leaves.
• SweetLeaf Organic Stevia Sweetener is gluten free and contains no artificial ingredients, calories, carbohydrates glycemic response which makes it ideal for people managing their blood sugar or calorie intake. 
• One packet of of SweetLeaf Organic Stevia is as sweet as 2 teaspoons of sugar. 
• With a delicious taste that is sweeter than sugar, SweetLeaf Organic Stevia Sweetener is perfect for sweetening hot or cold beverages, cereals, baked goods, desserts, fresh fruit, yogurt and more.

     Above is the gift pack I received from the makers of SweetLeaf Organic Stevia.  Though I was really curious about on how the sugar alternative will taste, I have to admit, the Sweet Drops stole the show. Packaged in a familiar medicine bottle complete with a rubber dropper, the SweetDrops made me a little hesitant to actually try it. (Well, it just brings bad memories.) 

    Anyway, since our rule in this house is try something once before saying No, (unless of course it contains their allergens),  I kept on open mind.  Now, here's something important to know most especially by us food allergy people.  Since the labels of SweetLeaf products don't specify for any allergens or warnings, I decided to contact them before writing this post.  Here's their response on my inquiry. 

Ms. DeSagun,

Our ingredients include purified water, organic stevia extract, and natural flavors which are plant based, which means that we use a combination of herbs, fruits, vegetables, and essences. Sweet Drops™ contain no MSG or other products like it. Our liquids are also vegan and gluten free, meaning they contain no corn, wheat, barley or rye. We do not use GMO products. Our equipment may process different things but it is thoroughly cleaned between each product. Our product does not contain any soy or rice, and stevia extract used for the preparation of SweetDrops has been obtained with water extraction only.

I hope this information helps!

       As of this posting, I still haven't had a specific response on the peanuts and tree nuts (aside from Hazelnuts).  I'll keep you posted once the information is available.

      However, our family did try the Pumpkin Spice and the Berry Flavors (about 8 times already) and so far, all four of the kiddos didn't have any reactions. 

      For testing, I used our favorite recipe for Pumpkin Oat Muffins.  Instead of the adding 1 cup of sugar as the recipe requires, I cut it in half and included 8 packet of Sweet Leaf Organic Stevia. Then, I added about 10 drops of the Pumpkin Spice Sweet Drops to the batter and baked it in a loaf pan at 350 F for about 40 minutes (or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out almost clean). The result is a delicious Pumpkin Spiced Bread.   

  

       One of the reasons why I enjoy using Sweet Drops is that it not overly sweet like honey or agave. It's not even thick at all.  In fact, it is more of like the extracts we use for baking, only colorless, alcohol free and full of flavor. That's when  I realize the importance of the dropper. It allowed me to precisely add how much I need. Surprisingly,  a little of this really goes a long way.  

       Aside from adding extra flavor to baked goods, the SweetLeaf Drops works well coffee, tea and yes plain old water.  Even Child #3, (the pickiest one) agrees.  It provides so much flavor without the added calories, after taste and side effects.  Personally, I get headaches if I consume products with aspartame or other artificial sugar substitutes.  

       Now for the Organic SweetLeaf Stevia packets. After using it on hot liquids such as coffee and even tomato based sauces, I found out that it gives the added sweetness without any after taste - a challenge most sugar substitutes have. When used with cold liquids, it melts right away and is not bitter at all.  I've made sweet lemon tea with it a few times and I have to say, I can't tell the difference.

        If you are watching your sugar intake, SweetLeaf Organic Stevia products are really nice to have on hand.  It gives that sweetness we love and crave without the guilty feeling.  

   

- Roz

(Note:  I received this products for free from the sponsor of the Moms Meet SM program, May Media Group LLC, who received it directly from the manufacturer.  As a Moms Meet SM blogger, I agree 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 for this product.)       

Deal Alert: Ultimate DIY Ebooks & Ecourses Bundle

        I know most of us are DIY'ers (Do-It-Yourself).  Admit it.  Even if we don't consider ourselves creative,  food allergies have made it our way of life.  From recipes, to snacks, parties, and even daily things such as clothing, bags, pillows. gifts, we would spend hours searching for new ways to make our families and children's lives more fun.

       That's why, I'm so excited to share with you this tremendous Deal Alert running this week.  With more than 76 ebooks and bonuses, I'm sure this will get all our creative juices flow.  

    Yes, there aren’t enough hours in the day, right? With work, helping the kids with their homework, preparing meals, cleaning up after everyone and putting yet another load of laundry on, there’s very little time for sleep – let alone DIY and crafting!




       But do you look at that bare wall in the den and that tatty tablecloth on the kitchen table, and just wish you had a few hours to do something about them? Or do you browse through those wonderful crafting successes on Pinterest and think to yourself that “one day” you’ll have a few more minutes to yourself so that you too can create something incredible?

      You’re not alone – there’s a huge community of people out there who are feeling just as frustrated as you are!

      Thankfully though, there’s an exciting new product to help you quickly and easily get into (or back into) the creative projects you’ve been desperate to start. It’s called The Ultimate DIY Bundle, and it’s a collection of carefully curated DIY and crafting eBooks and eCourses from the world’s leading authors and bloggers in the industry.

      For the crazy low price of just $34.95, you get access to a carefully curated library of over 76 eBooks and eCourses. And let me reassure you that this really is great value: the Ultimate Bundles team (who produced the resource) has spent MONTHS seeking out the most respected experts in the industry and asking them to contribute their premium-quality eBooks and eCourses. These really are the best of the best when it comes to DIY and crafting advice and information.

Topics in the bundle include:

• Home decor
• Furniture painting
• Photography
• Chalk pastels
• Handmade gifts
• Homemade skincare products
• Cake decorating
• Photography and photo-editing
• Paint colors and interior design
• …and a whole lot more (76 eBooks and eCourses in total) – to help you be inspired or get started with your next DIY or crafting project!

      There’s no need to worry about information overload though: The Ultimate DIY Bundle comes with a complete guide to getting started, so that you can know exactly which resource to use for your specific crafting or DIY project and jump straight into it with confidence!

      Hurry though! The Ultimate DIY Bundle will only be on sale for 6 days – from 8am EST on Wednesday, January 21 until 11.59pm EST on Monday, January 26.

      You can buy with complete confidence because you’re covered by the Ultimate Bundles 30-day money-back guarantee. That means you have a full 30 days to enjoy all the eBooks and eCourses in the bundle, and if you don’t think they provided enough value, you’ll get a full refund.

      Not only that, but The Ultimate DIY Bundle comes with 4 awesome bonuses, worth over $118.  That’s 3x the price of the bundle alone! These include…

• A free $15 Store Credit PLUS 8×10 Art Print from Hope Ink ($43 Value) 
• A free online class from Craftsy (up to $60 Value) 
• Free $15 store credit to Fawnsberg.com 
• A free sewing pattern PLUS a Premium Video Class from UpCraft Club ($19.99 Value) 
• Free, full digital copies of Where Women Create Magazine and Greencraft Magazine ($20 value) from Stampington and Co.

       So, don’t miss your chance to grab The Ultimate DIY Bundle, and get 76 incredible eBooks and eCourses for just $34.95. All you need to do is take action by midnight on Monday, January 26!

This amazing deal ends in just…

Pick up your copy right now, before it’s too late. Or, learn more here.






          What are you waiting for?  Get it now and start creating. Oh, and don't forget to share the "love" to all your friends too.

- Roz


(Note:  I have affiliate links included in this post.  Please read the fine print about this bundle and read the answers to Frequently Asked Questions about the bundle.) 

Friday Freebies: Ebooks on Smoothies, Canning, Ayurveda, Valentine Treats and more

      Wow!  The week flew right before my eyes.  Yes, I was missing in action.  Did you miss me? 

       If you follow me on Instagram or Twitter, I'm sure you have an idea what I was up too.  Are we friends there already?  I hope so.  

        Anyway, I'll be posting what's keeping me busy lately this weekend.  Here's a little hint - weight loss, new recipes, product reviews and more giveaways.  Sounds cool? 

         For now, I'm sharing some of the free ebooks I found today.  I hope you'll get them now before the prices go up.  

         TGIF my friends.

- Roz

Nutribullet Superfood Smoothies - 100 Mouthwater, Ultra Healthy & Super Filling Recipes

DIY Pantry: Canning and Preserving Basics

 

Ayurveda 101 : Basics for Natural Health and Well Being

Organic Eating on a Budget: How to Buy Affordable Organic Foods to Achieve a Healthier Diet and Lifestyle

My Yummy Paleo Valentine - 14 Quick and Easy Gluten Free Valentine Treats and Snacks

Brothers All Natural Fruit Clusters Review & Gift Pack Giveaway

      Wow it's October 1st! What could be better than starting this month with a giveaway right?  I'm sure you'll be pretty excited with this new product I'm sharing with you today.

      As a mom of 4, I am always looking for better snack ideas to keep my children fed throughout the day. Even though I'm a big fan of homemade treats, I confess, I do rely on packaged products as well to help me keep up with my family's growing demand.  

       Though store shelves are lined with what seems like endless array of products, finding something that is food allergy safe, nutritious and the kids would actually eat is still a little challenging.  Did I mention that most organic snacks are even pricier too?  So, when I was contacted to try Brothers All Natural's new freeze dried fruit snacks, I didn't even winked.  

        One of the products that caught my attention on the Brothers All Natural's website is their line of Fruit Clusters.  I was quite familiar with freeze dried fruits but these clusters are something new. What exactly are they?  Brothers All Natural Fruit Clusters fruit snacks are made of best quality fruits picked at the peak of ripeness, cut into pieces, freeze dried and rolled into 1/2 inch bite sized clusters.

     These Fruit Clusters are 100% fruit and without added sugars, additives or preservatives.  It is free of the Top 8 common allergens such as wheat/gluten, soy, peanut, nuts and dairy.   Aside from that, it is Non-GMO Project certified, vegan and OU Kosher certified as well.  

      Among my 4 kids, Child #2 is the pickiest fruit eater. Unlike her 3 siblings who prefer fresh, dried or frozen fruits over any cupcake at any given time, Child #2 is the total opposite. Just how picky?  Well, if you ask her if she eats any fruit, she'll say "Yes!  I love apple pie, banana muffins, peach marmalade, mango Italian ice."  Mind you she's already 9 years old.  Do you get the picture?  

       Anyway, Child #3 who's a big fruit eater, (The one who says that the only reason he's not a vegan is me torturing him to eat meat for extra protein.), first tasted the Fruit clusters. He described it as apple cinnamon flavored popcorn. Crunchy and naturally sweet, I find these bite sized treats a way better option than a bag of sugar loaded caramel popcorn.  

       His non stop munching caused the other kids to be curious.  After my eldest and youngest each gave the Fruit Clusters a thumbs up, Child#2 eventually gave in.  She tried one which led to another and another and another.  Finally, she realized she finished a whole bag.  A big surprise from someone who's known as a non fruit eater!   

        When I asked her why she liked the Fruit Clusters.  She said that it is like eating popcorn that tastes like Apple Pie.  Not just a regular apple pie, a really good one. 

        Since the official tasting, Brother All Natural Fruit Clusters has become a staple in the children's lunch box.  It works well as a quick mid day snack for my Kindergartner and 2nd Grader.  The older ones like it as dessert that comes along with their lunch.  

       I like that each 1.25 oz resealable bag contains 6 servings of fruit.  It can easily be divided so that every child gets a portion or more. Plus it come in three flavors - the kids' favorite Apple Cinnamon, Blueberry Apple and my personal choice Raspberry Apple.

   

       Did I get you curious?  Well, our generous friends from Brothers All Natural has agreed to sponsor the prize for this giveaway.  One lucky reader (must be a US resident) will win his or her choice of 8 Fruit Cluster packs which will be shipped directly to his or her home for free. Isn't that cool? 

           What are you waiting for?  The giveaway ends on Oct. 13, 2014 11:59 pm EST.  

           Good luck!

- Roz

(Note:  I received free products to try and review for this post.  This however, hasn't affected my opinions about the brand.  See my full disclosure here.)

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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

         

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Friday Freebies: Clean Eating Ebooks

        It's Friday my friends. Before you shut down all your electronic devices (as if you do!), check out the free ebooks I found today. If you are into clean and organic eating, weight lost or into healthier lifestyle, these are filled with practical information and yes, recipes.  

       Get them now before the prices go up. 

      Have a great weekend!

- Roz



        

Friday Freebies : DIY Organic Beauty Ebooks

        Kids are out! Time to get pampered my dear Moms.  If you are a bit hesitant on spending big bucks on a spa treatment or splurging on pricey cosmetics, don't worry, I have a treat for you today.   I found these free ebooks filled with recipes on how to make your own organic scrubs, body butter, creams and more. 

         After scanning all three ebooks, I am so excited to find out that making your own spa treatments are not that difficult at all.  There are no harsh chemicals to play with too.  The best part is that almost all the ingredients are already in the pantry.  That means major savings! 

         Click away and download now. Then try it this weekend.  You definitely deserve it.

 

- Roz

 

 

Feel Better Italian Wedding Soup - Gluten free



      I can't believe the flu bug just visited our place. Last week, 5 out of 6 family members were on bedrest for the whole week. With just one "nurse" to attend to everybody's needs, (yup I was the last one standing), I decided to make my favorite comfort food - Italian Wedding Soup.

       In this version, I used Arrowhead Mills Organic Quinoa -- 14 oz instead of the traditional small round pasta. I like the quinoa because it's gluten free, loaded with protein and doesn't get soggy when reheated.  Once the meatballs were cooked through, this recipe can also be transferred to a crock pot so it stays warm and ready when someone needs to eat.  A big help especially when having a nice family meal isn't possible.

        Whether you have someone who's sick at home or have a very hectic schedule, I suggest you give this easy to prepare comfort food a try.  I'm sure it will definitely make you feel better. 

        Stay healthy this winter.
      
     

 

 

 

Ingredients:

 

Meatballs

2 lbs ground beef

2 pcs multi grain crackers (crushed into bits)

1 medium sized onion

2 tsp sea salt

1/4 tsp ground black pepper

1 tsp garlic powder

2 Tbs ground flax meal

6 Tbs lukewarm water

fresh parsley (about 3 tablespoons finely chopped)

 

Soup

2 Tbs olive oil

3 cloves minced garlic

1 small onion chopped (about 1/4 cup)

1 cup celery chopped

1 cup carrots chopped

3.5 Quarts Chicken broth

2 tsp sea salt

1/2 tsp ground black pepper

2/3 cup quinoa

2 cups kale (torn into bite size pieces)

pinch of chili flakes

 

1. Mix the flaxmeal and water to make a goo. Set aside for 5 minutes.

2. Using a food processor, finely chop the parsley and onions. 

3. In a big bowl, combine the onion-parsley mixture, crushed multi grain crackers, flax goo, salt, pepper and garlic powder. 
4. Add the ground beef and using your hands, mix it thoroughly.  Form into balls about 1 tablespoon each. Set aside.
5. In a big pot, saute garlic, onions, celery and carrots in olive oil for about 5 minutes.
6. Add the stock and bring to boil. 
7. Once the stock starts to boil, slowly add the meatballs and quinoa. Let it boil again and season with salt and pepper.  Simmer for at least 20 minutes. 
8. Add the kale pieces and simmer for another 15 minutes.
9. Transfer to a serving bowl and top with chili flakes.
10. Enjoy!

-Roz
 



Our First Trick or Treating with Food Allergies

      It's that time of the year.  Both children and adults' minds are occupied with just two things --- costumes and candies!  (Hurricane Sandy is slowly getting some attention here in the tri-state though). Anyway, as a mom with kids who have food allergies, I know that it can be a stressful, VERY stressful time.

      Since this is our first trick or treating with food restrictions, I decided to make a deal with my children.  We will still go out in our costumes and gather some sweets.  Just like the previous years, they still have to give me all the candies to check out before they can eat any. Once sorted, they will get to keep those that do not contain ingredients they are allergic to. As for the rest, we will all donate it to my son's past pre-school which in turn will send it as part of the care packages for our troops abroad. 

        Did they like the idea? Oh yes!  They are even more excited because they are doing something for a good cause.  Since I am pretty sure that might they will only get to keep about 10% of their hard earned goods, I also started to prepare. 

         After a lot of label reading, I was so surprise to find these treats at the local Home Goods store.  Organic candies and lollipops from Yummy Earth. These candies are all gluten, egg, dairy, nut and soy free. They even use natural food coloring from carrots, beets etc.  A real treat and yes, they do taste great.  Other health food stores carry them too but I suggest get these at Home Goods.  Why? Well they cost a lot cheaper.  As in 30 to 40 percent off the retail price.    

      So, are you trick or treating this year too?


-Roz