tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16949961624682349502024-03-13T06:17:06.947-04:00Coconut CrumbsFollow my trail as I munch my way through life...Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01420486258764135982noreply@blogger.comBlogger150125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694996162468234950.post-75094869149660231692011-10-08T13:59:00.000-04:002015-06-24T16:12:31.328-04:00Officially a Dietitian + Goodbye!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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(Barcelona)</div>
Two pieces of news today!<br />
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First, last weekend I passed the licensing test to become a Registered Dietitian. After 6 years, <b>I'm officially a RD!</b> It was one of those moments in life where the backdrop falls away, life zooms out, and I realized how many people I have to thank. Professors, classmates, colleagues, family, and friends....I'm grateful for each of you!<br />
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Second, I'm saying goodbye to Coconut Crumbs. It has been an incredible journey for the past few years in Boston training to become a dietitian, working on a masters degree and finding scraps of time in between for this blog. I'm thankful for the opportunity to try these blogging skills and look forward to applying social media lessons to my career, wherever it takes me!<br />
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Celebration with my friend Anna!</div>
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Thanks to all my readers and God bless.<br />
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<b>Cheers,</b><br />
<b>Rachel</b></div>
Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01420486258764135982noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694996162468234950.post-31578420753974359232011-09-20T22:12:00.001-04:002011-09-20T22:12:33.728-04:00New England Dessert Showcase!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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This month was the 2011 <a href="http://www.nedessertshowcase.com/"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">New England Dessert Showcase</span></b></a> in Boston, a exhibition featuring designer chocolates, ice cream, and sugary concoctions. I obtained a press pass to attend, but couldn't go at the last minute. Fortunately my friend Grace gladly stepped in to make good on this sweet opportunity. Enjoy the pics!<br />
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My friend loved the display from Kueh, South East Asian producer of dessert, snacks and pastries! </div>
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Thank you to <a href="http://www.theanthemgroup.com/"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">the Anthem Group</span></b></a> for the press pass! <br />
Cheers,<br />
Rachel</div>
Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01420486258764135982noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694996162468234950.post-57056053493027270452011-06-19T13:39:00.006-04:002011-06-19T14:05:28.973-04:00Ostende-The Belgian Coast<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QRDSpIJxxDY/Tf4s219i_BI/AAAAAAAABdI/8putQgz8ruk/s1600/P6130414.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QRDSpIJxxDY/Tf4s219i_BI/AAAAAAAABdI/8putQgz8ruk/s400/P6130414.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>The finicky rain and cloudy skies did not deter us from a quick trip to Belgium's North Sea coastline. Our destination was Ostende, which according to trusty Frommer's tour book, used to be "the Queen of the Coast and prestigious 19th-century royal vacation spot." We found the town a little sleepy, but seeping with charm nonetheless! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vV18tiCFfO8/Tf4tRBJ51nI/AAAAAAAABdM/zH-yT3cysBQ/s1600/P6130413.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vV18tiCFfO8/Tf4tRBJ51nI/AAAAAAAABdM/zH-yT3cysBQ/s400/P6130413.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--eEWM146GvI/Tf4tc1ZniBI/AAAAAAAABdQ/yMzrplrXeZQ/s1600/P6130406.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--eEWM146GvI/Tf4tc1ZniBI/AAAAAAAABdQ/yMzrplrXeZQ/s400/P6130406.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YnEiXbsFhNA/Tf4uJvuoKWI/AAAAAAAABdU/JhjYu1mkCSg/s1600/P6130421.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YnEiXbsFhNA/Tf4uJvuoKWI/AAAAAAAABdU/JhjYu1mkCSg/s400/P6130421.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GpBYEjpiQDE/Tf40S2wOsxI/AAAAAAAABds/aDlX3Kp5h6Q/s1600/P6130424.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GpBYEjpiQDE/Tf40S2wOsxI/AAAAAAAABds/aDlX3Kp5h6Q/s400/P6130424.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Belgian chocolate? Yes please.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H7g0IyXBemg/Tf4wNPzxe_I/AAAAAAAABdo/4yE7gZ_xrjs/s1600/P6130456.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H7g0IyXBemg/Tf4wNPzxe_I/AAAAAAAABdo/4yE7gZ_xrjs/s400/P6130456.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> First pasta in Europe. Lovely.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eA6P05jwxjg/Tf4u8Kibf-I/AAAAAAAABdc/hHHPDFQrTA0/s1600/P6130460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eA6P05jwxjg/Tf4u8Kibf-I/AAAAAAAABdc/hHHPDFQrTA0/s400/P6130460.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c2D_2ywFcAM/Tf4v3JvfzFI/AAAAAAAABdk/FAu4ZDe-O6M/s1600/P6130462.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c2D_2ywFcAM/Tf4v3JvfzFI/AAAAAAAABdk/FAu4ZDe-O6M/s400/P6130462.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">(Below) Chocolate from Estonia. Snack for the train ride.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ph0dbw8APrk/Tf4vEslzXPI/AAAAAAAABdg/ZX6m2YZCyzg/s1600/P6130402.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ph0dbw8APrk/Tf4vEslzXPI/AAAAAAAABdg/ZX6m2YZCyzg/s400/P6130402.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>The internship at the <a href="http://www.eufic.org/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">European Food Information Council </span></a>continues to go well. I'm still working on content for the <a href="http://www.food-4u.it/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Food4U</span></a> campaign, a healthy food video competition for adolescents funded by the Italian Ministry of Agriculture. However the highlight of the week was a visit to the European Parliament for a brief lecture on food security in the European Union! <br />
Cheers,<br />
Rachel<br />
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</div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01420486258764135982noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694996162468234950.post-84347963322373176972011-06-09T18:23:00.002-04:002011-06-19T13:51:07.511-04:00Canal Tour of Brugge<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RHXoSRcqreE/TfE9oQvu7-I/AAAAAAAABcY/729C97JnDOk/s1600/P6030204.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-RHXoSRcqreE/TfE9oQvu7-I/AAAAAAAABcY/729C97JnDOk/s400/P6030204.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> Brugge, a small town tucked in the northwest corner of Belgium, stands unravaged by time. Cobblestones line the streets of this Medieval Gothic city, and horse-drawn carriages clatter beside the automobiles. However the most charming view of Brugge is captured aboard a small boat, drifting along the canals, pondering bygone days of chivalry.<br />
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Au revoir!<br />
Rachel</div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01420486258764135982noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694996162468234950.post-91992376465413838422011-06-06T17:24:00.004-04:002011-06-19T13:51:24.377-04:00Les Frites<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WVIhZfhGzSw/Te0-gHw_NjI/AAAAAAAABb0/-DY65KExZik/s1600/P6040287.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WVIhZfhGzSw/Te0-gHw_NjI/AAAAAAAABb0/-DY65KExZik/s400/P6040287.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>I am thankful to report a safe arrival in Brussels, Belgium! After settling into the small room that I now call home, I spent the rest of the weekend greeting the city and getting lost on the subway. While traipsing through the downtown marketplace, I indulged in the touristy street-side vendor selling frites. Unfortunately I neglected to get the mayonnaise sauce, for which frites are simply incomplete. I'll have to go again!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y_DvoCFWUQY/Te0_6_oPDgI/AAAAAAAABb8/TB53GX84L7U/s1600/P6040266.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y_DvoCFWUQY/Te0_6_oPDgI/AAAAAAAABb8/TB53GX84L7U/s400/P6040266.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iuKyef_calY/Te1AQX6EdrI/AAAAAAAABcA/-PoMWX5PfyA/s1600/P6040321.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iuKyef_calY/Te1AQX6EdrI/AAAAAAAABcA/-PoMWX5PfyA/s400/P6040321.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jj5jRRtvVvw/Te1AxUqStEI/AAAAAAAABcE/JO7Oq-HDzp8/s1600/P6040325.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jj5jRRtvVvw/Te1AxUqStEI/AAAAAAAABcE/JO7Oq-HDzp8/s400/P6040325.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E3gjBUQyZKI/Te1BOtNQvWI/AAAAAAAABcI/TFTEVlakcqA/s1600/P6040345.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-E3gjBUQyZKI/Te1BOtNQvWI/AAAAAAAABcI/TFTEVlakcqA/s400/P6040345.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(Above) Place Royale</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">(Below) Dinner at home-I have no kitchen! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I was anxious to try the white asparagus which is in season here.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3hSof2wMXf4/Te1Bdnw1X1I/AAAAAAAABcM/oYa0Af4OmDE/s1600/P6030253.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3hSof2wMXf4/Te1Bdnw1X1I/AAAAAAAABcM/oYa0Af4OmDE/s400/P6030253.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Today was my first day at the<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"> <a href="http://www.eufic.org/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><b>European Union Food Information Council (EUFIC)</b></span></a>,</span> where I will be interning this summer. EUFIC is a non-profit organization which provides science-based information on food safety and nutrition to media, health professionals, and educators. I will be a Science Communications intern, and I anticipate lots of research interpretation and writing. <br />
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Cheers to les frites!<br />
Rachel<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #666666; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"> </span></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01420486258764135982noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694996162468234950.post-67023392999963168522011-05-30T22:43:00.009-04:002011-06-01T17:01:50.855-04:00Graduation and Beyond!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sQrClmeArD0/TeGwOO4xVLI/AAAAAAAABbY/pe7rgL0m7fY/s1600/IMG_0370.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sQrClmeArD0/TeGwOO4xVLI/AAAAAAAABbY/pe7rgL0m7fY/s400/IMG_0370.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">May 22nd marked the Tufts graduation ceremony. I salute my colleagues at the Tufts Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy (holla for my Nut Comm class!), and I have a special tribute to the Tufts dietetic interns. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Tufts Dietetic Interns, Class of 2011</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Ladies, working with you these past two years has been an honor. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Registered Dietitian and MS...We did it! </b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Am_mtGGfKs/TeanyeghlTI/AAAAAAAABbs/5K7AIuchcxU/s1600/IMG_4970.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1Am_mtGGfKs/TeanyeghlTI/AAAAAAAABbs/5K7AIuchcxU/s400/IMG_4970.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>DI Orientation, August 2009</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Alanna. </b> All elegance and poise. Your fortitude and strength has inspired me. I appreciate your dedication to do all things well.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Adrienne.</b> My sunshine friend! Always ready to greet with a smile, and help me put things into perspective. You think beyond dietetics, and I like this. Let's meet in Austin! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Nathalia.</b> Natural leader, fantastic MSDA president, and ever ready to provide comic relief. "We R Who We R"-Whenever I hear this, I'll bust a move for our song. Go Nat Attack!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Lauren.</b> My very first Boston acquaintance; thank you for subletting your Brookline room, and welcoming me to the city! Good luck in St. Louis!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rdRlxIdZAyM/TeaoP89TKrI/AAAAAAAABbw/LRxVSPDnj3o/s1600/IMG_9306.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rdRlxIdZAyM/TeaoP89TKrI/AAAAAAAABbw/LRxVSPDnj3o/s400/IMG_9306.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Inpatient rotations, August 2010</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Renee.</b> Hey DJ, your enthusiasm is contagious! You converted me to PBB sandwiches, and when I'm feeling down I'll remember to recite, "One day at a time, one patient at a time, for the win." Thank you! Sauce on.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Vicky.</b> My fabulous rotation partner, and "twin"! Ah, such memories together: Korean bbq at Koreana, red bean buns from Chinatown, instant coffee in dialysis clinic, Whole Foods lunches at MGH. Thankful for you. Rooting for you in California!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Erin.</b> Succinct, sassy, and never too flustered. Love it. Long live your grape salad and chocolate chip cookies!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Nikita.</b> This classy gal is truly the Queen of Spice (please open an Indian restaurant someday!). Roomie, you are a kindred spirit. I miss you already.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fyHm-yqKYQ8/TeGrzn1VXBI/AAAAAAAABbU/EHi-tUpggdE/s1600/IMG_0375.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-fyHm-yqKYQ8/TeGrzn1VXBI/AAAAAAAABbU/EHi-tUpggdE/s400/IMG_0375.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">What's Next? Belgium!</span><br />
Yup, I'll be heading to Brussels from June through August for a summer internship at the <a href="http://www.eufic.org/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><b>European Union Food Information Council</b></span></a> (EUFIC). EUFIC is a non-profit organization that provides nutrition and food safety information to media, industry, educators, and health professionals. This is my first taste of Europe! I'm eager to continue this unique opportunity, which was trail-blazed last summer by fellow Tufts colleague <a href="http://51porter.blogspot.com/"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Kelly Dumke</span></b></a>. <br />
<br />
In September I'll return to Boston for one last semester of grad school. Turns out I'm not officially graduated yet. *wink* But wanted to walk with my class nonetheless!<br />
<br />
Stay tuned this summer for updates and pictures.<br />
Cheers!<br />
Rachel</div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01420486258764135982noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694996162468234950.post-78965509727214034202011-05-02T22:20:00.005-04:002011-05-02T22:39:48.399-04:00Spicy Soba Noodles with Edamame and Shiitake<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PgGxtzjuc2o/Tb48ttqzewI/AAAAAAAABbA/Pp8b5g8idz4/s1600/IMG_0326.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PgGxtzjuc2o/Tb48ttqzewI/AAAAAAAABbA/Pp8b5g8idz4/s400/IMG_0326.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>I heard about this dish from a friend, and realized that it was the perfect opportunity to use up my soba and dried shiitake. Pretty tasty! However after comparing my pictures with the original SmittenKitchen recipe, I chuckle. Apparently I've lost all ability to follow directions, as somehow I managed to substitute red cabbage instead of Napa, and regular onions instead of green onions. <br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Spicy Soba Noodles with Shiitake and Edamame</b></span><br />
<a href="http://smittenkitchen.com/2007/08/so-good-soba/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><b>recipe from SmittenKitchen</b></span></a><br />
<b>Ingredients</b><br />
<i>For Sauce:</i><br />
1/3 cup water<br />
1/3 cup soy sauce<br />
2-3 Tablespoons <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gochujang"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><b>gochujang (Korean hot-pepper paste)</b></span></a><br />
1 Tablespoon brown sugar<br />
<i>For noodles</i><br />
3 Tablespoons toasted sesame seeds<br />
1/4 cup vegetable oil<br />
2 Tablespoons finely chopped peeled ginger<br />
1 Tablespoon chopped garlic<br />
10 ounces fresh shiitake mushrooms, thinly sliced (I used dried v)<br />
1.25 pound Napa cabbage, thinly sliced (I used red cabbage)<br />
6 green onions, thinly sliced (I accidentally used regular shallots)<br />
9 ounces soba/buckwheat noodles<br />
1 cup frozen shelled edamame<br />
<b>Preparations</b><br />
<ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Stir together all sauce ingredients until brown sugar is dissolved. Set aside.</li>
<li>Toast sesame seeds over stove, in skillet over medium heat. </li>
<li>Heat oil in skillet over medium-high heat. Add ginger and garlic. Stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add shiitake mushrooms and saute until tender and starting to brown, about 6 minutes. Reduce heat and add cabbage and scallions. Cook until cabbage is crisp-tender, about 6 minutes. Add sauce, and simmer for 2 minutes.</li>
<li>Meanwhile cook soba in boiling water until noodles are just tender (don't overcook!), about 6 minutes. You can add edamame to the boiling water. Drain soba in colander and rinse under cool water.</li>
<li>Transfer soba to large bowl and toss with sesame seeds and vegetable mixture. </li>
<li>Enjoy! Serves four.</li>
</ol><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GdgvDIJVwIc/Tb9cQpJ6syI/AAAAAAAABbQ/NFC1qCz56-M/s1600/IMG_0314.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GdgvDIJVwIc/Tb9cQpJ6syI/AAAAAAAABbQ/NFC1qCz56-M/s400/IMG_0314.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">It's three more weeks until the end of the dietetic internship, and the to-do list grows at an alarming rate. But instead of writing, studying, and being a productive little engine, I find myself wandering in grocery stores and daydreaming recipes; by the end of the day I habitually default to the kitchen. There over steamy pots, the stress simply dissolves. Mental resolve has floated away too, or maybe it is just bobbing above my head like a balloon on a string, still attached but distant. Come back!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Well, goodnight to you. </div><div style="text-align: left;">I hope you are well, wherever you are.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Rachel</div></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01420486258764135982noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694996162468234950.post-14920554193758961092011-04-25T19:25:00.003-04:002011-04-25T19:28:49.395-04:00Caramel Matzoh Crunch<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JfdiXQukEIE/TbX8yn359SI/AAAAAAAABag/7db1_n0b00I/s1600/IMG_0209.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JfdiXQukEIE/TbX8yn359SI/AAAAAAAABag/7db1_n0b00I/s400/IMG_0209.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Last week I attended my first Passover seder. With wonder I nibbled the sweet charoset, fell in love with homemade unleavened bread, gasped on a spear of fresh horseradish, and recited the 10 plagues while flicking drops of red wine onto the seder plate. I received an intellectual and gastronomical education, for which I am most grateful. I brought this easy matzoh dessert. Perhaps they lacked the elegance and tradition of the other elements, but these crunchy squares proved dangerously addictive. Beware. <br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Absolutely Magnificent Caramel Matzoh Crunch</span><br />
<a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/My-Trademark-Most-Requested-Absolutely-Magnificent-Caramel-Matzoh-Crunch-109117"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Recipe from Marcy Goldman via Epicurious</span></b></a><br />
<u>Ingredients</u><br />
4-6 unsalted matzohs<br />
2 sticks unsalted butter<br />
1 cup firmly packed brown sugar<br />
3/4 cup coursely chopped chocolate chips or semi-sweet chocolate<br />
<u>Preparation</u><br />
<ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Preheat oven to 375. Line large cookie sheet with foil. Cover with baking parchment-on top of the foil. (Mixture becomes sticky during baking.)</li>
<li>Line bottom of cookie sheet evenly with the matzohs, cutting extra pieces to fit any spaces.</li>
<li>In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine butter and brown sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture comes to a boil (about 2 to 4 minutes). Boil for 3 minutes, stirring. Remove from heat and pour over matzoh, covering completely.</li>
<li>Place baking sheet in oven, immediately reducing heat to 350. Bake for 15 minutes, checking often to make sure mixture is not burning.</li>
<li>Remove from oven and sprinkle immediately with chopped chocolate or chocolate chips. Let stand 5 minutes, then spread the melted chocolate over matzoh. </li>
<li>While warm, break into squares or odd shapes. Chill in freezer, still in pan, until set.<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q6SVo4Ddi1w/TbX821vPvaI/AAAAAAAABak/ZpfqvPTy3rw/s1600/IMG_0211.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q6SVo4Ddi1w/TbX821vPvaI/AAAAAAAABak/ZpfqvPTy3rw/s400/IMG_0211.JPG" width="400" /></a></li>
</ol><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Later in the week, my roommate and I discovered that matzoh crackers also make for easy mini pizzas. Have you tried it? Hurry and buy it, while it is on sale! : )<br />
<br />
Wishing you a fabulous week, </div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Rachel</div></div></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01420486258764135982noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694996162468234950.post-11461739779602729612011-04-17T18:20:00.001-04:002011-04-17T18:21:45.689-04:005 Week Countdown<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b9q8acqBQA4/TatkiWDTx0I/AAAAAAAABaM/cUUiTCCHnJA/s1600/IMG_0203.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b9q8acqBQA4/TatkiWDTx0I/AAAAAAAABaM/cUUiTCCHnJA/s400/IMG_0203.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Only five more weeks until completion of the dietetic internship! This week I'm back at the hospital to start rotation in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit; I'm very excited to see the little ones. Coming next is bariatrics at Massachusetts General Hospital. As classes finish and rotations draw to an end, I try to disentangle from the flurry of work and appreciate the mentors, professors, colleagues, and friends who have made the Tufts Dietetic Internship such a fabulous experience thus far. <br />
<br />
Pictured above: Winter has finally switched to spring, so I'm changing up my lunchtime routine to fresh salad.<br />
<b>What are you packing for lunch these days?</b><br />
<b>Best of luck to Molly, Melissa, and all my other friends who are running the Boston Marathon tomorrow!</b><br />
<br />
love,<br />
Rach</div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01420486258764135982noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694996162468234950.post-54339325340544728002011-03-20T22:26:00.002-04:002011-03-20T22:30:27.153-04:00Gingersnaps from the Book Basket<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-L31aQ2iAtU0/TYazJGJ-dpI/AAAAAAAABZ0/cPGlFVgEB9Q/s1600/IMG_0168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-L31aQ2iAtU0/TYazJGJ-dpI/AAAAAAAABZ0/cPGlFVgEB9Q/s400/IMG_0168.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Candied Ginger</i></div>It has been a while since I spilled the contents of my book basket, but I have to share my latest read. It is delicious in more ways than one. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jBumlEpnofY/TYa0bmW2NZI/AAAAAAAABZ8/j-Hk4f_Q-qo/s1600/Picture+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-jBumlEpnofY/TYa0bmW2NZI/AAAAAAAABZ8/j-Hk4f_Q-qo/s400/Picture+1.png" width="302" /></a></div>Have you heard of Amanda Hesser, American food writer and cookbook author? Her memoir <i><b>Cooking for Mr. Latte</b> </i>originally started as a column for <i>The New York Times Magazin</i>e. Later it turned into a skillfully fashioned chronicle of a food lover's courtship. Best of all, Hesser's witty prose is mixed with accompanying recipes. <br />
<br />
I think you will love it. I reserved this book from the library and patiently waited for 23 days until its arrival. After retrieval, I immediately stuck a post-it note on the inside cover for notes and scribbles. By page 50 I had jotted down plenty of recipes to photocopy, including this new version of my favorite cookie. They turned out quite well!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Mountain Honey Gingersnaps with Candied Ginger</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-IbhxJ_XHFlM/TYazZb0tFyI/AAAAAAAABZ4/ey87Qc8xdWU/s1600/IMG_0179.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-IbhxJ_XHFlM/TYazZb0tFyI/AAAAAAAABZ4/ey87Qc8xdWU/s400/IMG_0179.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<b>What is your favorite cookie?</b><br />
<b>What are you reading now?</b><br />
Cheers to a new week.<br />
Rachel</div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01420486258764135982noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694996162468234950.post-31701211510200487682011-03-14T18:28:00.002-04:002011-03-14T21:15:18.757-04:00Restaurant Review: The Friendly Toast<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--WlfASouuNM/TXVTVaa0x9I/AAAAAAAABZk/g03IKZivfJI/s1600/DSC_0753.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--WlfASouuNM/TXVTVaa0x9I/AAAAAAAABZk/g03IKZivfJI/s400/DSC_0753.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">The Friendly Toast</span></div><div style="margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><b>Address</b>: 1 Kendall Square, Cambridge, Massachusetts </div><div style="margin: 0px; text-align: center;"><b>Website</b>: <a href="http://www.thefriendlytoast.net/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">http://www.thefriendlytoast.net/ </span></a><br />
Tucked away in the heart of MIT-land, The Friendly Toast is the ultimate 1950's diner. <br />
I recommend it with all my heart and stomach.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-tGW_taax7ps/TXVV9Bm8WXI/AAAAAAAABZw/c_hzjrg15Uc/s1600/DSC_0745.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="376" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-tGW_taax7ps/TXVV9Bm8WXI/AAAAAAAABZw/c_hzjrg15Uc/s400/DSC_0745.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-B2w3yVTTNWs/TXVSnnPuavI/AAAAAAAABZQ/dWZv9VUGj-M/s1600/DSC_0761.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-B2w3yVTTNWs/TXVSnnPuavI/AAAAAAAABZQ/dWZv9VUGj-M/s400/DSC_0761.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Costa Rican </span></div><div style="text-align: center;">Black beans and plum tomatoes under melted provolone, two sunny side eggs, <br />
sour cream, potatoes and homemade oatmeal toast.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-szZvI5BRQA4/TXVTG13k7YI/AAAAAAAABZg/C0gYqKW36kg/s1600/DSC_0767.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-szZvI5BRQA4/TXVTG13k7YI/AAAAAAAABZg/C0gYqKW36kg/s400/DSC_0767.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Pumpkin Pancakes</span></div><div style="text-align: center;">"Just like pumpkin pie, with Raisinettes inside and neat whipped cream on top."</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-X5HFDqzttCo/TXVS4tfLdnI/AAAAAAAABZU/2F3yaFoSmro/s1600/DSC_0750.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-X5HFDqzttCo/TXVS4tfLdnI/AAAAAAAABZU/2F3yaFoSmro/s400/DSC_0750.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-LF4sJAzRJ4g/TXVTyC-HP_I/AAAAAAAABZs/vwX1ZzCeXzg/s1600/DSC_0747.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-LF4sJAzRJ4g/TXVTyC-HP_I/AAAAAAAABZs/vwX1ZzCeXzg/s400/DSC_0747.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div>I had the lucky opportunity to brunch at The Friendly Toast several weeks ago. Plan for a healthy appetite and a little patience, because the portions are large but the wait can be long. Prepare for a groovy atmosphere, complete with Buddy Holly tunes and a life-size vintage Barbie model. Need I say more? Next you will be ushered into the vibrant dining room, bursting with the cacophony of clinking glasses, scraping plates, boistrous laughing, and all the natural sounds of happy people chowing down. <br />
<br />
Now to the food. I've discovered that syrupy bites of pumpkin pancake dissolve easily when mixed with homemade whipped cream. The experience only gets better when you unsuspectingly chew into a Raisinette. The Costa Rican eggs were equally scrumptious, offering a wholesome feast of savory black beans mixed with runny yolk, complimented with crunchy oatmeal toast.<br />
<br />
Aren't the photos gorgeous? A special thanks to Alan for his DSLR camera!<br />
<br />
*Crunch*<br />
The toast was indeed friendly.<br />
-Rachel</div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01420486258764135982noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694996162468234950.post-84397255026586858272011-03-07T16:30:00.008-05:002011-03-07T16:42:43.095-05:00Hats Off to National Nutrition Month!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-eFblophph9k/TW8ccCaWz7I/AAAAAAAABYo/mWM3VmxLNsw/s1600/IMG_0023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-eFblophph9k/TW8ccCaWz7I/AAAAAAAABYo/mWM3VmxLNsw/s400/IMG_0023.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> March is <a href="http://www.eatright.org/nnm/"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">National Nutrition Month</span></b></a>! </div><div style="text-align: center;">To celebrate, the Registered Dietitians and Dietetic Interns at Tufts Medical Center teamed up to present <b>"Myth Busters: Fact vs. Fiction of Carbs, Protein and Fats."</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LGj_70tAPIE/TW8dW0y4jQI/AAAAAAAABYw/StKsZ_Ha6kE/s1600/IMG_0025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LGj_70tAPIE/TW8dW0y4jQI/AAAAAAAABYw/StKsZ_Ha6kE/s400/IMG_0025.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Renee, one of the intern coordinators, answers questions at the Carbohydrate Table.</i></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Due to the hard work of the planning committee (applause to Renee, Nikita, and Nathalia!), the event featured a fabulous line-up including food displays, a Trader Joe's raffle, and <b>Black Bean Brownie</b> samplers. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IOllpwaCyis/TW8d4I7bvMI/AAAAAAAABY0/HQxZ-Za6JWM/s1600/IMG_0031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-IOllpwaCyis/TW8d4I7bvMI/AAAAAAAABY0/HQxZ-Za6JWM/s400/IMG_0031.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Myth Busters:</span></div></div></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit;">Our event featured an interactive "Nutrition Myth Busters" quiz, written by dietetic interns Nikita and Renee. Here's a teaser of some questions.<o:p></o:p></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.1pt; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0.1pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;">1.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><b><span style="color: black;">True or False? Protein's main purpose is to build muscle.</span></b><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="color: black;"> False! Protein has a myriad of functions, including building cells, repairing cells, supporting the immune system, providing lasting energy when consumed with carbs, maintaining muscle mass, and strengthening hair, nails, and skin.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.1pt; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0.1pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;">2.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><b><span style="color: black;">True or False? Honey is more nutritious than other sugars.</span></b><b><span style="color: black;"> </span></b><span style="color: black;"> False! You would have to eat a minimum 1/4 cup of honey to get any other type of nutrient other than carbohydrate.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.1pt; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0.1pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;">3.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><span style="color: black;"><b>True or False? Eating too much sugar causes diabetes. </b> False!</span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="color: black;"> A high sugar diet does not cause diabetes. The biggest risk factor for diabetes is being overweight. However if someone is diagnosed with diabetes, sugar and carbohydrate intake does have to be kept in check to manage blood sugar levels.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.1pt; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0.1pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;">4.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><b><span style="color: black;">True or False? The 2010 Dietary Guidelines recommend that Americans consume 20-30% of calories from fat.</span></b><b><span style="color: black;"> </span></b><span style="color: black;"> True!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.1pt; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0.1pt; text-indent: -0.25in;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;">5.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><b><span style="color: black;">True or False? All saturated fat is bad for you. </span></b><span style="color: black;">False! One saturated fat, stearic acid, has been shown to have a neutral effect on LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, and can increase HDL (healthy) cholesterol a boost. Stearic acid is abundant in beef and chocolate.</span></span></div></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-xRWPzJpV7II/TW8ejFsudWI/AAAAAAAABY4/q9LbFXHAxbs/s1600/IMG_0030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-xRWPzJpV7II/TW8ejFsudWI/AAAAAAAABY4/q9LbFXHAxbs/s400/IMG_0030.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Black Bean Brownies</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-5crRa4BYrag/TW8emqk8U9I/AAAAAAAABY8/7nMO76GxNvc/s1600/IMG_0029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-5crRa4BYrag/TW8emqk8U9I/AAAAAAAABY8/7nMO76GxNvc/s400/IMG_0029.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Never before has nutrition occupied such a large slice of public attention. This month the American Dietetic Association's national slogan is "Eat Right with Color," a tribute to the health benefits of a varied diet. Aim to color your plate with a rainbow of whole grains, lean proteins, healthful fats, fruits, and vegetables. Enjoy the palette of nutrients found only within whole foods.<br />
<br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Hats off to wholesome eating and healthful living!</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><b>How are you celebrating National Nutrition Month?</b></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">-Rachel</div><a href="http://www.eatright.org/nnm" target="_blank"> <img alt="I'm Blogging National Nutrition Month" height="200" src="http://www.eatright.org/uploadedImages/National_Nutrition_Month/NNM_2011/nnmwidget_large.jpg" style="margin-bottom: 15px; margin-left: 10px; margin-right: 10px; margin-top: 15px;" width="120" /></a></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01420486258764135982noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694996162468234950.post-26525636705738746622011-02-24T18:16:00.003-05:002011-02-24T18:20:50.274-05:00Truffles: P.S. I Love You<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xZc-rT9PxgE/TWFGO-Y_c_I/AAAAAAAABXE/8Kuweqq-wak/s1600/IMG_0017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xZc-rT9PxgE/TWFGO-Y_c_I/AAAAAAAABXE/8Kuweqq-wak/s400/IMG_0017.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>It is nearly two weeks after Valentines, but in our apartment we continue to celebrate with the sheer bliss of velvety chocolate rolled in sweet coconut and walnuts. In other words, my roommate Nikita made these simple but elegant truffles. Stunning. <br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>"P.S. I Love You" Truffles</b></span><br />
t<i>aken from <a href="http://joyofbaking.com/ChocolateTruffles.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">The Joy of Baking</span></a></i><br />
8 ounces semisweet or bittersweet chocolate, cut into small pieces<br />
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream<br />
2 Tbsp unsalted butter, cut into small pieces<br />
2 Tbsp alcohol (cognac, brandy, rum, bourbon, Kahlua)<br />
<i>Note: Truffle taste directly correlated to quality of the chocolate you use</i><br />
<b>Coatings for Truffles</b><br />
Dutch-processed Cocoa Powder<br />
Confectioners sugar<br />
Chopped nuts<br />
Toasted Coconut<br />
Shaved Chocolate<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zLaFU1hiF5k/TWbl0cfnC5I/AAAAAAAABYc/cGgXvW-SWVA/s1600/IMG_0001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zLaFU1hiF5k/TWbl0cfnC5I/AAAAAAAABYc/cGgXvW-SWVA/s400/IMG_0001.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Instructions</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"></div><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Place chopped chocolate in a bowl. Set aside.</li>
<li>Heat cream and butter in small saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil. Immediately pour over the chocolate and stand for a minute or two. Stir until smooth.</li>
<li>If desired, add liqueur.</li>
<li>Cover and refrigerate until truffle mixture is firm (several hours or overnight).</li>
<li>Place coatings for truffles on a plate. Use your hands, small ice cream scooper, or small spoon to scoop truffle mixture into small round balls.</li>
<li>Roll ball in coatings and place on parchment lined baking sheet or tray.</li>
<li>Cover and refrigerate until firm.</li>
<li>Can be refrigerated for a couple weeks, or frozen for a couple months.</li>
<li>Serve at room temperature. Makes 30 small truffles.</li>
</ol><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g-z_6mrfqmI/TWbis3DscxI/AAAAAAAABYY/rvVm6CRqPLA/s1600/IMG_0016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g-z_6mrfqmI/TWbis3DscxI/AAAAAAAABYY/rvVm6CRqPLA/s400/IMG_0016.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Nikita, I dedicate this post to you. Cheers to our living room dance parties, Glee sing-offs, wardrobe consultations, and late night chats. You are a faithful friend and roommate, and I love cooking shoulder to shoulder in our cozy kitchen. </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">P.S. I love you,</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Rachel</div></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01420486258764135982noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694996162468234950.post-30581625620912265532011-02-24T17:34:00.006-05:002011-03-27T21:03:28.293-04:00Winter Wonderland and Cookware Preview<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MmJmlrsgcyQ/TWbYjgrDL8I/AAAAAAAABXg/kLHLScX-uYM/s1600/IMG_9893.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MmJmlrsgcyQ/TWbYjgrDL8I/AAAAAAAABXg/kLHLScX-uYM/s400/IMG_9893.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>I'm excited to announce another partnership with CSN Stores, an online shopping site that features furniture and home decor. They offer a variety of useful and luxery items, including anything from <a href="http://www.swingsetsandmore.com/"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">swing sets</span></b></a> to tea sets, fixtures to jewelry. The winter has been harsh on my kitchen crew, and several vital members pooped out in the chill (ahem, Mr. Blender). Stay tuned for a cookware product review! In the meantime, Boston's winter wonderland is slowly thawing. It's oh so slow.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--HUM4htEFMU/TWbZpLgEghI/AAAAAAAABXk/RN9JPALKSqE/s1600/IMG_9863.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--HUM4htEFMU/TWbZpLgEghI/AAAAAAAABXk/RN9JPALKSqE/s400/IMG_9863.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> One of the many January storms. Trudging to work; no snow day at the hospital!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tz64Ie2a8FQ/TWbb0N-RnfI/AAAAAAAABYA/HwhtfYwK8eA/s1600/IMG_9891.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tz64Ie2a8FQ/TWbb0N-RnfI/AAAAAAAABYA/HwhtfYwK8eA/s400/IMG_9891.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ag_zuh0kRmY/TWbcEly0NVI/AAAAAAAABYE/QN6w6mu8MO4/s1600/IMG_9696.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ag_zuh0kRmY/TWbcEly0NVI/AAAAAAAABYE/QN6w6mu8MO4/s400/IMG_9696.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">October 2010</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iRK0UqtHb6o/TWbcIiYqyOI/AAAAAAAABYI/lP0YnzJyXXE/s1600/IMG_9912.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iRK0UqtHb6o/TWbcIiYqyOI/AAAAAAAABYI/lP0YnzJyXXE/s400/IMG_9912.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>How is your kitchen crew doing? </b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>What's #1 on your kitchen wish list?</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">Rach</div></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01420486258764135982noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694996162468234950.post-13951004700948770702011-02-21T12:34:00.003-05:002011-02-21T12:42:19.943-05:00The Politics of Eating<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0WJiO7j2fVI/TWB15JPSbjI/AAAAAAAABWo/pU6QiTEnbjE/s1600/IMG_7214.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0WJiO7j2fVI/TWB15JPSbjI/AAAAAAAABWo/pU6QiTEnbjE/s400/IMG_7214.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Last week I enjoyed reading an opinion piece in <i>The Huffington Post</i> that eloquently debates some hot issues in food politics. The article was titled,<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"> <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/leslie-hatfield/who-will-fix-food-obama-w_b_825079.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Who will fix food? Obama? Walmart? You?</span></a> </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"> </span>I felt called to share some of its rhetoric. <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red;"> </span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;"><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;">"We've got to choose food that reflects our values. [...] We've got to stand together to push for federal policy that serves eaters and farmers before it serves corporations." --Josh Viertel, Slow Food USA President via <b><a href="http://www.theatlantic.com/food/archive/2011/02/froot-loops-vs-real-fruit-for-real-change-dont-look-to-obama/71105/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">The Atlantic</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;"> </span></b></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;">"Eaters must become</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;"> more political. We can't just vote with our forks." -<a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/wenonah-hauter/food-policy-we-cant-belie_b_821666.html?ir=Food"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Wenonah Hauter</span></b></a> from Food & Water Watch, spurns USDA regulations such as genetically modified salmon and alfalfa.</span></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;">The Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy is addressing problems with the current food system in their new <a href="https://org2.democracyinaction.org/o/6562/content_item/charterchoice"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><b>Charter for a Healthy Farm Bill</b></span></a> . "A</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 20px;">s fewer and fewer of us are tied to the land, average citizens don't always see a connection between themselves and policies ostensibly geared toward those who still do raise crops and animals. But we all eat, so the Farm Bill affects all of us. And those of us who still have jobs pay taxes, so we should care about how our tax dollars influence our food systems, too."</span></span></li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tFxtuHwSjAo/TWB4p-nUWmI/AAAAAAAABW4/R95c_y3V3Kw/s1600/IMG_5157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tFxtuHwSjAo/TWB4p-nUWmI/AAAAAAAABW4/R95c_y3V3Kw/s400/IMG_5157.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Farmers' Market, Union Square, NYC</i></div>The fact that I'm even blogging about food politics indicates a change in my own thinking. In June 2009, I arrived at the dietetic internship and graduate program with a basic toolkit of clinical nutrition. Yes, I knew the connection between food biochemistry, human health, and disease. But no, I was clueless to the larger connections between nutrition, food, agriculture, economics, and public policy.<br />
<br />
I am thankful for my classmates who expand my mind with their animated opinions and interests. I am learning that food politics is a turnpike of merging and diverging paths, each topic associated with many implications. The conversation could start with aquaculture and sustainable fishing, but end up in urban farming, food desserts, economics of fair trade, genetically modified ____ (fill in the blank), the "head to tail" culinary movement, front of package food labeling, international food security, or who knows where else.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9yw116g48uc/TWB3bVBw1JI/AAAAAAAABWs/guaxsydfl84/s1600/IMG_0760.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9yw116g48uc/TWB3bVBw1JI/AAAAAAAABWs/guaxsydfl84/s400/IMG_0760.JPG" width="300" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Farmers' Market, Point Reyes, CA</i></div><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">I'm a slow learner, but one thing is certain. If nutrition and food is a business, it sure is political.</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"></span>What about you? Does this stir up any noble thoughts about ethics, food policy, nutrition, farming, or eating?</b><br />
As always, thanks for reading.<br />
Happy Presidents' Day!<br />
-Rachel</div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01420486258764135982noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694996162468234950.post-30335454234266913482011-02-14T18:26:00.006-05:002011-02-15T12:17:29.984-05:00The Transparency Trend-Empowering the American Grocery Shopper<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ur6I6Ma9T6I/TVmsZWGrS5I/AAAAAAAABWY/8RtNdEoYMGc/s1600/46970-hi-wholefoodsmarket_5-stepsign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ur6I6Ma9T6I/TVmsZWGrS5I/AAAAAAAABWY/8RtNdEoYMGc/s400/46970-hi-wholefoodsmarket_5-stepsign.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-small;">Photo credit: <a href="http://multivu.prnewswire.com/mnr/wholefoods/46970/">Whole Foods</a></span></i></div>Two weeks ago Whole Foods announced the <a href="http://multivu.prnewswire.com/mnr/wholefoods/46970/"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">new 5-Step Animal Rating System</span></b></a>, a labeling system that will be popping up in meat departments nation-wide come May 2011. The rating system is a part of the <a href="http://www.globalanimalpartnership.org/"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Global Animal Partnership</span></b></a>, a nonprofit organization that audits farms and rates their animal welfare practices. Whole Foods will be offering color-coded labels to guide consumers through the 5-Step certified beef, pork, and chicken products. Certification indicates that the animals are raised on a vegetarian diet with no antibiotics or added growth hormones (also required by federal regulations). <br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">5-Step Animal Welfare Rating System</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7DbhLmWb6JU/TVms2OJRykI/AAAAAAAABWc/zU0rva9_yTg/s1600/Picture+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7DbhLmWb6JU/TVms2OJRykI/AAAAAAAABWc/zU0rva9_yTg/s400/Picture+1.png" width="268" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Image credit: <a href="http://multivu.prnewswire.com/mnr/wholefoods/46970/">Whole Foods</a></i></div>A.C. Gallo, the president and COO of Whole Foods Markets comments, "We are proud to adopt this new rating system that helps shoppers make even more informed buying decisions while offering them peace of mind that the animals from our producers are raised with care."<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The Transparency Trend</span><br />
Food labeling is all the rage. You might recall the hubbub about<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"> </span><b><a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2009/09/05/business/05smart.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Smart Choices labels and Fruit Loops</span></a> </b>last year, and more recently the <a href="http://www.bevindustry.com/Articles/Beverage_News/BNP_GUID_9-5-2006_A_10000000000000991920"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">American Beverage Association</span></b></a> announced their new <a href="http://www.ameribev.org/nutrition--science/clear-on-calories/"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">"Clear on Calories" program.</span></b></a> The labeling initiative will display total calories on individual beverages and vending machines.<br />
<br />
To address the labeling trend, the Institute of Medicine released <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><a href="http://www.iom.edu/Reports/2010/Examination-of-Front-of-Package-Nutrition-Rating-Systems-and-Symbols-Phase-1-Report.aspx"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Phase 1 of their front-of-pack nutrition labeling report</span></a> </span></b>in October 2010, concluding that labeling should focus on calories, saturated fat, trans fat, sodium, and easily understood serving sizes. Phase 2 of the report is currently under discussion.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4NkCXtKEG60/TVm56rj1ZzI/AAAAAAAABWg/aXTnWJ1mfms/s1600/Picture+4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="303" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4NkCXtKEG60/TVm56rj1ZzI/AAAAAAAABWg/aXTnWJ1mfms/s400/Picture+4.png" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #444444; font-family: arial, helvetica, clean, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><i>photo credit: <a href="http://eatdrinkbetter.com/2009/10/26/smart-choices-food-labeling-program-suspended/">Eat Drink Bette</a>r</i></span></div>As companies slap more food labels onto packages and store shelves, I am tempted to applaud the push for "nutrition transparency" and "informed consumer purchase." However I also wonder at what point too much information burdens rather than enlightens the consumer. It will take more than color-coded labels to change consumer purchasing behavior and dietary patterns. I believe proper guidance is needed to accompany these labels. <br />
<br />
The transparency trend is exciting, but let's keep our eyes out for emerging research on food labeling and its affect on consumer purchasing.<br />
<br />
<b>Do you like the Whole Foods 5-Step initiative?</b><br />
<b>Your thoughts on food labeling?</b><br />
Have a sweet Valentine's Day!<br />
<br />
-Rachel</div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01420486258764135982noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694996162468234950.post-2556582664513913732011-02-05T22:45:00.003-05:002011-02-05T23:01:22.214-05:00Orange Raisin Scones<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><span id="goog_255461096"></span><span id="goog_255461097"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TU4YdvnvZOI/AAAAAAAABWQ/b2EXS399mms/s1600/IMG_9993.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TU4YdvnvZOI/AAAAAAAABWQ/b2EXS399mms/s400/IMG_9993.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>A baking fetish has overtaken my apartment, with sweet scents wafting through the kitchen. This recipe was a lucky find, easily missed in tiny 8-size font on the back of a raisin container. But after eating nearly the entire batch straight off the pan, my roommate and I agreed it was a keeper. <br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><b>Orange Raisin Scones</b></span><br />
<i>Recipe from "ShurFine Natural Raisins" box.</i><br />
2 cups all purpose flour<br />
1/2 cup granulated sugar, divided<br />
2 Tbsp. orange zest (or more!)<br />
1 Tbsp baking powder<br />
1/2 tsp salt<br />
1/2 cup unsalted Butter, chilled<br />
1/2 cup raisins<br />
1/3 cup sour cream<br />
1 egg<br />
Cinnamon<br />
<br />
Whisk flour, half of sugar, orange zest, baking powder, and salt in large bowl.<br />
Add butter and cut into flour mixture with pastry blender, or blend in food processor for 10 second pulses; mixture should resemble corn meal. Add raisins.<br />
<br />
Whisk sour cream and egg in small bowl. Add to flour mixture and toss until moist clumps form. <br />
Pour flour mixture onto lightly floured surface and gently knead until dough comes together. Divide dough into small circles or triangles. Sprinkle with remaining sugar and cinnamon; press into dough so that it sticks. Bake 8-10 minutes or until golden brown. Makes 12-16.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TU4Y3Rb0XSI/AAAAAAAABWU/Y5kFcWG8TjA/s1600/IMG_9967.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="302" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TU4Y3Rb0XSI/AAAAAAAABWU/Y5kFcWG8TjA/s400/IMG_9967.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">How was your weekend?</div><div style="text-align: center;">Cheers!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Rach</div></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01420486258764135982noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694996162468234950.post-28942305793147169532011-02-02T22:56:00.003-05:002011-02-02T23:01:21.789-05:00Salty Recs from the New Dietary Guidelines<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TUojwWAejfI/AAAAAAAABWI/CqC4_pEMARY/s1600/Picture+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="253" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TUojwWAejfI/AAAAAAAABWI/CqC4_pEMARY/s400/Picture+1.png" width="400" /></a></div>Monday ushered in the new<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #660000;"> </span><a href="http://www.cnpp.usda.gov/Publications/DietaryGuidelines/2010/PolicyDoc/PressRelease.pdf"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans</span></b></a>, the federal government's evidence-based recommendations to promote health and reduce risk of chronic disease through nutrition and physical activity. Recommendations for fat, cholesterol, potassium, and fiber are largely unchanged since the 2005 edition, and there was more focus on decreasing added sugars. Click <a href="http://www.cnpp.usda.gov/Publications/DietaryGuidelines/2010/PolicyDoc/ExecSumm.pdf"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">here</span></b></a> for the full report. <br />
<br />
Of note, there was <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 16px;">little change for sodium recommendations (still 2300mg/day for the general public)—a point of debate for many. </span>Here is the Dietary Guideline's official stance on salt:<br />
<blockquote>"Reduce daily sodium intake to less than 2,300 mg and further reduce intake to 1,500 mg among persons who are 51 and older, and those of any age who are African American or who have hypertension, diabetes or chronic kidney disease. The 1,500 mg recommendation applies to about half of the U.S. population, including children and the majority of adults."</blockquote>This is in contrast to the recommendations from the <b><a href="http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=4708"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">American Heart Association</span></a>, </b>which read<b> </b>"Choose and prepare foods with little or no salt to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Aim to eat less than 1500 mg of sodium per day."<br />
<br />
So which is best... 2,300 mg or 1,500mg per day? I'm not quite sure myself. Despite the numbers, I think it's clear that sodium is worth our notice. We know that high-salt diets are linked to high blood pressure and increased risk for heart disease, and that about 75% of American sodium intake comes from processed foods. A reduction in sodium will require both a conscious effort from the consumer, and system wide change in the American food supply.<br />
<br />
Fortunately, recall that the <a href="http://www.iom.edu/Reports/2010/Strategies-to-Reduce-Sodium-Intake-in-the-United-States.aspx"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Institute of Medicine</span></b></a> already issued a seminal report in April 2010 calling for food companies to cut back on added salt. In addition, the IOM asked for regulatory standards for sodium levels in processed foods. I blogged about the IOM report back in April, so feel free <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><a href="http://coconutcrumbs.blogspot.com/2010/04/salty-news-from-institutes-of-medicine.html">to take a look</a>.</span></b><br />
<br />
Alright folks, that's my thoughts on salt and the new guidelines.<br />
<b>Do you agree with the Dietary Guidelines or the AHA?</b> <br />
<br />
Happy Thursday,<br />
Rachel<br />
<br />
photo credit from <a href="http://www.american.com/archive/2008/february-02-08/take-it-with-a-grain-of-salt"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">American Enterprise Institute</span></a></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01420486258764135982noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694996162468234950.post-31599635009881319692011-01-30T21:01:00.000-05:002011-01-30T21:01:42.178-05:00Apple Oatmeal Quick Bread<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TUYTIu4SL-I/AAAAAAAABV4/XyQeOxSlfWU/s1600/IMG_9953.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TUYTIu4SL-I/AAAAAAAABV4/XyQeOxSlfWU/s400/IMG_9953.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>The remedy for these chilly winter days is cozy afternoons spent tinkering in the kitchen.<br />
Time to try a new recipe.<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Apple Oatmeal Quick Bread</span><br />
<i>Taken from a Stonyfield Oikos coupon</i><br />
1 cup plain Oikos Organic Greek Yogurt (I used regular plain yogurt)<br />
1 cup quick-cooking oats<br />
1 egg<br />
1/4 cup canola oil<br />
1/2 cup packed brown sugar<br />
2/3 cup all-purpose flour<br />
2/3 cup whole wheat flour<br />
1 tsp. baking powder<br />
1 tsp. ground cinnamon<br />
1/4 tsp. salt<br />
1 cup diced apple, peeled or unpeeled<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TUYTOsjSFhI/AAAAAAAABV8/9jSPRGN4ktk/s1600/IMG_9950.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TUYTOsjSFhI/AAAAAAAABV8/9jSPRGN4ktk/s400/IMG_9950.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Directions</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In small bowl, mix yogurt and oats. Set aside. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In large bowl, mix together egg, oil and brown sugar. Stir in flours, baking soda, cinnamon, salt, and yogurt mixture (batter will be lumpy). </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Fold in apples. Pour into greased loaf pan.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Heat oven to 350. Bake for 45 minutes, or until golden brown, or until a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean. Remove from pan immediately. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Makes 12 servings.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Serve warm, or enjoy toasted with a smear of jam or butter. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Nutritional info per serving</b>: 180 calories, 6g total fat, 28g carbohydrate, 4g protein, 2g fiber.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TUYTm7BERwI/AAAAAAAABWA/iQFfb5TaU3c/s1600/IMG_9949.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TUYTm7BERwI/AAAAAAAABWA/iQFfb5TaU3c/s400/IMG_9949.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Any new eats or treats this weekend?</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">Yum!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Rachel</div></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01420486258764135982noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694996162468234950.post-815973396916572562011-01-27T00:21:00.010-05:002011-01-27T00:47:41.939-05:00Exercise as a Commodity: Paying For Fitness<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TUD_Ju1JCGI/AAAAAAAABVs/dyblQRwPSlA/s1600/Picture+4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="273" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TUD_Ju1JCGI/AAAAAAAABVs/dyblQRwPSlA/s400/Picture+4.png" width="400" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">flickr photo credit to <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/rvccatherineslanding/4901919603/">Catherine's Landing</a></span></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">If exercise is a commodity, how much will you pay for it? </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Apparently some people are willing to invest quite a tidy sum of money. </span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">This week I read an intriguing article in the Boston Globe about a new start-up called <a href="http://www.gym-pact.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><b>Gym-Pact</b></span></a>. Gym-Pact is an exercise accountability program which requires its members to shell out a $25 penalty fee every time they skip a work-out. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Gym-Pact originated from Harvard College graduate Yifan Zhang, who stumbled upon the idea during a behavioral economics class. Zhang was convinced that people are more motivated by immediate consequences than by future possibilities. Together with classmate Geoff Oberhofer, Zhang created Gym-Pact and started negotiations between gyms and participating members. </span><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.boston.com/business/articles/2011/01/24/gym_pact_bases_fees_on_members_ability_to_stick_to_their_workout_schedule/"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Click here</span></b></a> to read complete coverage from The Boston Globe. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TUD9PE1ZI0I/AAAAAAAABVo/aCK7xpV8af0/s1600/Picture+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TUEAF14FIGI/AAAAAAAABVw/YYGwfSb4hMM/s1600/Picture+5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TUEAF14FIGI/AAAAAAAABVw/YYGwfSb4hMM/s400/Picture+5.png" width="325" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><i>flickr photo sourced from <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/bangkokrecorder/3124848496/">bangkokrecorder</a></i></span></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Compelling article! </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">I have never framed exercise as an economic commodity, but isn't this is what Gym-Pact implies? On one hand, exercise has become extremely valuable due to its health benefits. An exercise investment can only grow profitably as obesity and its co-</span>morbidities<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"> continue to increase. However e</span>xercise is costly; in the midst of our busy lives, we must purposefully set aside time and resources to get moving.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Kenneth J. Carpenter, PhD noted the historical shift from physical activity to inactivity in his article "A Short History of Nutrition Science" written in 2003. Carpenter notes, </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">"[In the 1980s] the problem of obesity was still growing, and nutritional science had not been able to come up with an easily adopted solution for people with a sedentary lifestyle. As technology advanced, the human machine remained the same. [Back then] a few people were [starting to reverse] the traditional work-rest cycle, i.e. doing their work (and associated travel) sitting down, and spending their breaks on a treadmill." Now in the 21st century, it seems the work-rest cycle is completed reversed!</span><br />
<br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">What do you think of a program such as Gym-Pact?</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">What are your thoughts on exercise as a commodity?</span></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Thanks for reading,</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Rachel</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><br />
</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">** Carpenter, KJ. A Short History of Nutrition Science: Part 4 (1945-1985). <i>Journal of Nutrition.</i> (2003) 133: 3331-3342.</span></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01420486258764135982noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694996162468234950.post-8841893481987271782011-01-22T00:19:00.004-05:002011-01-22T00:38:21.954-05:00Lesson 8: Iron Out the Wrinkles<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TTpjE6tFk7I/AAAAAAAABVI/VxjPRYBKexc/s1600/IMG_9888.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TTpjE6tFk7I/AAAAAAAABVI/VxjPRYBKexc/s400/IMG_9888.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>"Oh dear," I thought, as I tugged my white lab coat from the laundry. "It's been quite some time since my last hospital rotations. My coat is wrinkled, my notes are crumpled, and my clinical common sense is no where to be found." After four months away from the hospital, January marks my return to the pediatric floors. With mixed trepidation and excitement, I washed my white coat and smoothed out the creases. Time to re-entered the world of TPN recs and tube feed calculations. <br />
<br />
After two weeks I'm grateful to report that I'm loving the peds floors. Hats off to a fabulous preceptor, a gracious medical team, and the endearing kiddos! However I'm still having trouble ironing out the wrinkles of my memory. It's alarming how quickly I've forgotten the minutia of medications and formulas. But I take heart. I remind myself that this <a href="http://coconutcrumbs.blogspot.com/2010/07/hospital-rotations-lesson-4-destination.html" style="color: blue;">journey ends at competency</a>, not perfection.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TTpkK2E2hKI/AAAAAAAABVQ/2dhF9Q0TLCs/s1600/IMG_9871.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TTpkK2E2hKI/AAAAAAAABVQ/2dhF9Q0TLCs/s400/IMG_9871.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Boston State House on the Commons</i></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Clinical Nutrition Resources for Pediatrics</span><br />
These resources have proved useful thus far. <br />
I would love to hear your opinions and exchange resources please!<br />
<ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Pediatric Nutrition Reference Guide, 9th Edition, Texas Children's Hospital</li>
<li>ADA Pediatric Manuel of Clinical Dietetics</li>
<li>Nestle Nutrition, Pediatric Nutrition Helpful Hints (fold-out)</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TTpnJQR41GI/AAAAAAAABVU/cpMqwWoCu6c/s1600/IMG_9878.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TTpnJQR41GI/AAAAAAAABVU/cpMqwWoCu6c/s400/IMG_9878.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>With yet another snow storm this weekend and temps below zero, Boston's forecast looks grim. This month my Sorel snow boots have quickly become <a href="http://coconutcrumbs.blogspot.com/2010/01/california-girl-comments-on-her-first.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">my most valuable investment</span></a>! <br />
<br />
<b>Any nutrition and pediatrics references to recommend? </b><br />
<b>Are you staying toasty and dry this weekend?</b><br />
Cheers,<br />
Rachel</div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01420486258764135982noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694996162468234950.post-74181836749544313842011-01-04T23:18:00.005-05:002011-01-05T10:37:59.882-05:00Keeping Up with Health News: 4 Easy Tips!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TR2a8dJ0gxI/AAAAAAAABUs/WrdLKGhiCjc/s1600/new+york+times+newspaper.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TR2a8dJ0gxI/AAAAAAAABUs/WrdLKGhiCjc/s400/new+york+times+newspaper.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><i>flickr photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/bdewey/3374674246/">B.K.Dewey</a></i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: left;">Tick tick tick. The 24-news cycle never ends, and keeping up with the latest health news is harder than ever. As part of the new year, I will be adding a new role as the Nutrition Newsbites editor for my graduate school newsletter. I am excited to tackle this task, and eager to share my game plan for tracking the constantly churning health news scene. I hope these tips are helpful, but I desperately need your suggestions as well! </div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Four Easy Ways to Keep Up with Health News</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TR2d-vStoxI/AAAAAAAABU8/xiAtwkeE3Us/s1600/newspaper+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="218" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TR2d-vStoxI/AAAAAAAABU8/xiAtwkeE3Us/s320/newspaper+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>flickr photo by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/randya38/2708581069/">RandyA38</a></i></div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">1. Email List-serves, E-<span id="goog_125855004"></span><span id="goog_125855005"></span><a href="http://www.blogger.com/"></a>newsletters</span><br />
<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">Signing up for free emails through various health organizations or news services is an easy way to get a daily dose of health updates. I enjoy <a href="http://www.smartbrief.com/signup/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Smartbrief</span></a>, an email service that offers links news articles. Search by industry: restaurant, nutrition, social media, food service, nursing, health care, and much more. Other suggestions...</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">The <a href="http://www.eatright.org/default.aspx"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Daily News from the American Dietetic Association</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #073763;"> </span>offers a succinct daily summary of nutrition, dietetics, and food service articles. (ADA membership is required for this one.) <br />
<br />
</div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://plus.mcmaster.ca/EvidenceUpdates/Default.aspx"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Evidence updates</span></a> - a daily email from the British Medical Journal group that provides links to newly published medical research from major journals. You can customize to specific areas of medicine and varying levels of newsworthiness.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.eurekalert.org/" style="color: blue;">Eurekalerts</a> - Not an email alert, but a great site for press releases. Spanning all topics including general science, health, nutrition, agriculture, education, and more.<br />
<br />
</div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">2. TOC [Table of Contents] Subscriptions</span><br />
Stay fresh with breaking research from your favorite journals. Subscribing to a journal's Table of Contents (it's free!) often allows you to glimpse the upcoming articles before release of the print edition. Full access to the journal requires a paid subscription, however it is worthwhile to read the research abstracts. With more than 5,400 worldwide life sciences journals, it is helpful to identify one or two journals that apply to your specific practice or interests. <br />
<b>General recommendations:</b> <br />
<a href="http://www.ajcn.org/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">American Journal of Clinical Nutrition</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.nejm.org/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">New England Journal of Medicine</span></a> (love the weekly resident teaching lessons)<br />
<a href="http://jama.ama-assn.org/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Journal of the American Medical Association</span></a> (love the JAMA patient page)<br />
<a href="http://jn.nutrition.org/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Journal of Nutrition</span></a><br />
<a href="ttp://journals.lww.com/nutritiontodayonline/pages/default.aspx"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Nutrition Today</span></a><br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">3. Google Reader</span><br />
This service stores your favorite websites, health bloggers, and news organizations in one place, making for easy and efficient reading! It automatically updates with each new post or article. <br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">4. Customize Your Internet Homepage</span><br />
Setting your web homepage to a news organization is a simple way to keep your finger on the pulse of consumer health news. When I go online, my webpage is set to the <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/pages/health/index.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">New York Times Health section</span></a> so that I can quickly glance at any breaking health feature articles. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TR2dCwvhmpI/AAAAAAAABU4/NVRup1yofYU/s1600/Picture+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TR2dCwvhmpI/AAAAAAAABU4/NVRup1yofYU/s320/Picture+1.png" width="306" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">I've gleaned these resources from classmates and mentors throughout the past 3 semesters of grad school. But I'm sure eager to hear your opinions and further suggestions. <br />
In particular, <b>know any good news sources for farming and food policy?</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
Cheers to a new year! </div><div style="text-align: center;">-Rachel</div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01420486258764135982noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694996162468234950.post-25338232277075568512010-12-22T20:41:00.002-05:002010-12-22T20:52:00.750-05:00A Chamorro Holiday<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TRJjaYGNOvI/AAAAAAAABTQ/ZaW1h0GLgwQ/s1600/IMG_8738.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TRJjaYGNOvI/AAAAAAAABTQ/ZaW1h0GLgwQ/s400/IMG_8738.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Empanadas</i></div>I will not see my grandma for Christmas this year, so I'm posting a holiday tribute for her! Fortunately family and friends recently celebrated her 84th birthday this June, so I have pictures to share.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TRJm64EpuyI/AAAAAAAABTg/Igoy7NWrW8g/s1600/800px-Flag_of_Guam.svg.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TRJm64EpuyI/AAAAAAAABTg/Igoy7NWrW8g/s400/800px-Flag_of_Guam.svg.png" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Flag of Guam.</i> </div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;">My grandma hails from Guam, a micronesian island located in the western Pacific Ocean. Historically a Spanish colony, today Guam serves as a U.S. naval base and Japanese tourist hot-spot. <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">I </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">have never been to this sunny island, but I certainly enjoy the local cuisine.</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TRJlqfddxOI/AAAAAAAABTY/eXAy7x57P1s/s1600/IMG_8760.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TRJlqfddxOI/AAAAAAAABTY/eXAy7x57P1s/s400/IMG_8760.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>Like all Mariana Islands, Guam has influence from its indigenous Chamorro people, from previous Spanish colonizers, and Filipino neighbors. Though not paritcularly healthy, the food is a fabulous mix of island tastes. My favorite is the signature Red Rice, which is soaked in the achotte seed to give it a brilliant orange hue.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TRKm2ANyWAI/AAAAAAAABT8/_n8d2vuBPqA/s1600/Picture+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="470" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TRKm2ANyWAI/AAAAAAAABT8/_n8d2vuBPqA/s640/Picture+1.png" width="640" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TRJnYhtnEhI/AAAAAAAABTo/29vHFhZ7_gU/s1600/IMG_8736.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TRJnYhtnEhI/AAAAAAAABTo/29vHFhZ7_gU/s400/IMG_8736.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TRJn4NlwamI/AAAAAAAABTs/ldERP7Ehdw4/s1600/IMG_8755.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TRJn4NlwamI/AAAAAAAABTs/ldERP7Ehdw4/s400/IMG_8755.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <b>Latiya.</b> My favorite! Basically layered vanilla custard sponge cake.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TRJoAHt87OI/AAAAAAAABTw/qZC8UZEwECY/s1600/IMG_8724.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TRJoAHt87OI/AAAAAAAABTw/qZC8UZEwECY/s400/IMG_8724.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TRJpwdAvbrI/AAAAAAAABT4/SyBptUbYvwU/s1600/IMG_8776.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TRJpwdAvbrI/AAAAAAAABT4/SyBptUbYvwU/s400/IMG_8776.JPG" width="400" /></a><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"> </span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TRJiz27ON3I/AAAAAAAABTM/WPe_kCtxLlc/s1600/IMG_8679.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TRJiz27ON3I/AAAAAAAABTM/WPe_kCtxLlc/s400/IMG_8679.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Merry Christmas Grandma!</div><div style="text-align: center;">Love,</div><div style="text-align: center;">Rachel</div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01420486258764135982noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694996162468234950.post-17222654133348327312010-12-20T01:55:00.000-05:002011-01-11T18:09:58.616-05:00Choco Sweet Potato Torte<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 20pt;">My search for the perfect Dairy-free, Gluten-free Dessert...<o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;"><i>Guest post from Utchima Sriprachya-anunt </i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;"><i>Dietetic Intern, Tufts Medical Center</i></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TR198rmkakI/AAAAAAAABUg/I2AOfaQbvsw/s1600/holiday+party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TR198rmkakI/AAAAAAAABUg/I2AOfaQbvsw/s400/holiday+party.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Cambria;"><i>Holiday Cheers! From the Tufts dietetic interns.</i></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">It has been four months since I moved to Boston for a dietetic internship. Although the weather is getting colder and colder, it has been a warm Christmas season due to all the fun festivities with my lovely new friends and dietetic internship family!<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">A few weeks ago I got super excited when I heard about a Christmas party with my dietetic internship girls. Aside from the fun Yankee swap game, and the excuse to drink a glass of wine, I was eager to bake and make something nice and delicious. <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">I have been inspired by Ashley, a fellow dietetic intern, who eats gluten-free and dairy-free. I knew she would be at the party, so I began to search for a dessert recipe that is gluten-free and dairy-free. I have never done this before, but I decided to take on the baking challenge. Suddenly as I was flipping through a pile of <i>Vegetarian Times</i> magazines, I found it. What would be more perfect than a combination of two of my favorite foods: chocolate and sweet potato! <o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">I have to admit that the recipe was not as easy as I thought. But I guarantee that this will be one of your favorite recipes ever!<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TR13hm5VzEI/AAAAAAAABUY/yI90BkJgCak/s1600/utchi%2527s+torte.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="253" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TR13hm5VzEI/AAAAAAAABUY/yI90BkJgCak/s400/utchi%2527s+torte.png" style="cursor: move;" width="400" /></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12pt;"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: Cambria;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Chocolate Sweet Potato Torte</span><o:p></o:p></span></b></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><i><span style="font-family: Cambria;">(Adapted from Vegetarian Times January 2010)<o:p></o:p></span></i></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">While making this recipe I learned that “torte” is not the same as tart. (I don't know why I always thought the two of them are twins but turns out that they are not.) Torte is a rich cake, often made with little or no flour. Instead, it uses ground nuts or breadcrumbs mixing with eggs, sugar, and some flavorings. This recipe calls for almond flour, which is a new adventure for me. But it turned out very well. I really love the texture of this torte; surprisingly smooth and dense, just like flourless chocolate cake. I'll warn you that one piece is not enough!<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">1 cup packed cooked, mashed orange-flesh sweet potato. (I used garnet in this recipe.)<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">1 ½ cup sugar, divided into 1 cup and ½ cup<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">1 cup almond flour<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">1/8 tsp salt<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">4 large eggs<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">2 oz. Bittersweet chocolate (I used 4 in here! Chocolate overload!)<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">2 Tbsp soymilk<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">1.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Cambria;">Preheat oven to 375°F. Coat 9-inch springform pan with cooking spray.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">2.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Cambria;">Blend sweet potato, 1 cup sugar, almond flour, cocoa, and salt in food blender until smooth.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">3.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Cambria;">Separate 3 eggs, placing whites in a separate bowl. Add 3 yolks and remaining whole egg to sweet potato mixture; pulse to combine. Transfer sweet potato mixture to large bowl.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">4.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Cambria;">Beat egg whites with electric mixer at high speed until soft peaks form. Add remaining ½ cup sugar. Beat until stiff, glossy peaks form.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">5.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Cambria;">Fold one-third egg white mixture into sweet potato mixture with spatula. Gently fold in remaining whites. Pour batter into prepared pan. Bake 45 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 10 minutes in pan or wire rack.<o:p></o:p></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Mangal; font-size: 12pt; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; margin-left: 0.5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Cambria;">6.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Cambria;">Melt chocolate in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir in soymilk. Spread chocolate mixture over top of cake. Let stand until chocolate set. Decorate!<o:p></o:p></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TR13pcU8rPI/AAAAAAAABUc/pbsaEByaJow/s1600/Utchi+bio.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TR13pcU8rPI/AAAAAAAABUc/pbsaEByaJow/s320/Utchi+bio.png" style="cursor: move;" width="279" /></a></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12pt;"><i>Utchi is a first year dietetic intern at Tufts Medical Center, Frances Stern Nutrition Center. She hails from Bangkok, Thailand—the food heaven! "That's why I love eating and cooking! My rule is that healthy food should taste good as well. I am a sweet tooth and I enjoy baking!"</i></span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12pt;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12pt;">Thanks for sharing Utchi.</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12pt;">I vouch that your torte was fantastically scrumptious!</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span style="font-family: Cambria; font-size: 12pt;">Rach</span></div>Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01420486258764135982noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1694996162468234950.post-79506693995666773352010-11-20T23:15:00.001-05:002014-06-25T23:06:48.382-04:00Spice It Up! Behind the Scenes...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TOSUcThPkvI/AAAAAAAABSs/dj4hYnefnXg/s1600/IMG_6610.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TOSUcThPkvI/AAAAAAAABSs/dj4hYnefnXg/s320/IMG_6610.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">There was some serious spice going down at our apartment last weekend, since my</span> roomate Nikita was cooking up an evening of north Indian cuisine. Sometimes life calls for a party, and we are thankful for everyone who came to get their spice on! For a glimpse behind the scenes, I assure you that it all starts with <a href="http://coconutcrumbs.blogspot.com/2010/01/get-your-spice-on.html"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Nikita's spice box</span></b></a>. Let's take a look.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TOSVDz3TgwI/AAAAAAAABSw/-f1DfQGsSoQ/s1600/Picture+1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TOSVDz3TgwI/AAAAAAAABSw/-f1DfQGsSoQ/s640/Picture+1.png" height="441" width="640" /></span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Party Menu:</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"></span></span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Samosas<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">-Fried potato and pea pockets</span></span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Palak Paneer<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">- [Spinach Cheese]-</span> </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Also known as Saag Paneer</span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Chicken Masala Curry</span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Aloo Gobi <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">[Potato Cauliflower]</span></span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Pulao<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;"> [Rice]</span></span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Tofu Capsicum <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">[Tofu Bell Pepper]</span></span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Roti </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">[Indian bread, whole wheat flour]</span><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Naan </span></b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">[Indian bread, refined white flour]</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TOiJ6Eh2PEI/AAAAAAAABTI/4C0MgyRhMAA/s1600/IMG_9718.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TOiJ6Eh2PEI/AAAAAAAABTI/4C0MgyRhMAA/s400/IMG_9718.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">11am. Kitchen in full action. </span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TOSZXiVDMTI/AAAAAAAABS8/kjY3sBCig9M/s1600/IMG_9717.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ULZbsOnzKzE/TOSZXiVDMTI/AAAAAAAABS8/kjY3sBCig9M/s400/IMG_9717.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">The Indian Diaries</span></span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">I love living with Nikita. Nope, I don't mind walking into the kitchen, sneezing as puffs of chile powder envelope me. And where else can I wake up to the scent of cardamum and cinnamon, a whiff of homemade chai? Thank you Nikita. </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">A year ago I started documenting her recipes on this blog through </span></span><a href="http://coconutcrumbs.blogspot.com/search/label/The%20Indian%20Diaries"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">The Indian Diaries</span></span></span></b></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">. If interested, several recipes including the </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><a href="http://coconutcrumbs.blogspot.com/2010/01/indian-diaries-pulao-rice.html"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">Pulao</span></span></span></b></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">and the</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><a href="http://coconutcrumbs.blogspot.com/2010/01/gobi-aloo-savory-indian-vegetable-side.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">Aloo Gobi</span></a> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: black;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal;">are already posted.</span></span></span></span></span></b></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"></span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Dreamy Creamy Mango Pie</span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">This dessert was the talk of the party, and by popular request, the lovely Utchima has shared her recipe. I can't believe I neglected to snap a picture, so use that imagination to conjur up sweet images of tropical pie.</span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Ingredients for 3 pies</span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">3 pre-made graham pie crust</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">3 cups mango pulp</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">3 cup cool whip</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">1 package cream cheese</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">15 Tbsp sugar</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">3 bags gelatin (dissolved in 3 cups boiling water</span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Directions:</span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;"><b></b>1. In a blender, mix dissolved gelatin with mango pulp, cool whip, cream cheese, and sugar for 1 minutes, or until well combined.<br />
2. Pour over crust. <br />
3. Referigerate for 3 hours or until set.<br />
4. Top with cool whip and refrigerate overnight.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">Cheers,</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">The Spice Girls</span></div>
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Rachelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01420486258764135982noreply@blogger.com4