I stand corrected and wish to make a correction to my post about J&D's Bacon Salt products. In my recent product review I stated that the Natural Bacon Salt was J&D's only gluten free product. ( I have made corrections to that post ) I was unaware that J&D's actually offered several other gluten free products in their line. They include: Bacon Ranch, Bacon Lip Balm, Regular BaconPOP, and Cheddar BaconPOP.
Although they do not claim Baconnaise and Lite Baconnaise as "gluten-free", glutens are not included in their ingredients. The reason given for this is that it is manufactured in a facility that processes other foodstuffs that may contain glutens, however, the cleansing process I am assured is quite extensive.
I apologize to J&D's and to you my readers for this mistake on my part, and I promise to do more in depth research when reviewing products in the future. I am however happy to hear that there are several more products from which to choose for my "bacon" cravings in their line!
Saturday, May 12, 2012
Weigh in...Week 9
So this week has been quite a week with all the product reviews, grocery shopping, cooking and freezing future dinners, and still I have maintained the same weight and dropped a 1/4 inch from my stomach and I am feeling good.
I must admit I have had trouble sleeping a few nights but I blame that on the large amount of ice tea I have drank this past week...Tea and caffeine, and a good nights sleep do not work well for me!
I have also had a headache a few of those days....Caffeine?
The only real thing I did different this week was to hold in my stomach muscles whenever I remembered, to help strengthen them.
Well today is sunny and warm so I plan on taking a walk and enjoying the out of doors. Have a great wheat free day! :)
Week 1: Week 9:
Weight 131.8 Weight 128.6
Waist 37 " Waist 33 1/2 "
Stomach 40" Stomach 36 1/2 "
Hips 38 " Hips 37 1/4 "
I must admit I have had trouble sleeping a few nights but I blame that on the large amount of ice tea I have drank this past week...Tea and caffeine, and a good nights sleep do not work well for me!
I have also had a headache a few of those days....Caffeine?
The only real thing I did different this week was to hold in my stomach muscles whenever I remembered, to help strengthen them.
Well today is sunny and warm so I plan on taking a walk and enjoying the out of doors. Have a great wheat free day! :)
Week 1: Week 9:
Weight 131.8 Weight 128.6
Waist 37 " Waist 33 1/2 "
Stomach 40" Stomach 36 1/2 "
Hips 38 " Hips 37 1/4 "
Friday, May 11, 2012
Homemade Pizza sauce...quick and easy...
Good morning readers. It is such a beautiful day out today and since I have so many of my dinners cooked and already in the freezer for the next few weeks I thought I would make something fun and easy for dinner tonight...Pizza.
The weekend is here and I just want to kick back, take a break and enjoy. I did however want to share with you my all time favorite home made pizza sauce recipe. I just can not get accustomed to the taste of store bought sauces, and I have tried many over the years, so I like to make my own from scratch. This recipe is quick, easy, and you can actually make it while your pizza dough is rising. It is easy to double the recipe too, if you are making more than one pizza at a time. Hope you enjoy!
The weekend is here and I just want to kick back, take a break and enjoy. I did however want to share with you my all time favorite home made pizza sauce recipe. I just can not get accustomed to the taste of store bought sauces, and I have tried many over the years, so I like to make my own from scratch. This recipe is quick, easy, and you can actually make it while your pizza dough is rising. It is easy to double the recipe too, if you are making more than one pizza at a time. Hope you enjoy!
Pizza Sauce
8 oz gluten-free tomato sauce
½ tsp dried oregano
½ tsp dried basil
½ tsp dried rosemary
½ tsp fennel seeds
¼ tsp gluten-free garlic powder
2 tsp sugar or 1 tsp honey (optional)
½ tsp salt
Combine all ingredients in small sauce pan and bring to boil over medium heat.
Reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15 minutes. Top pizza crust with sauce and your favorite toppings. Makes about 1 cup sauce.
Preparation time: 15 minutes.
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Product review...J&D's Natural Bacon Salt..
As you already know I do not eat red meat or pork. Give me chicken, turkey or fish and I am a happy camper, but I do miss my bacon on occasion. In my search for wheat free products I was lucky enough to stumble upon J&D's Bacon salt site and was happy to learn they have a product that is suppose to satisfy your "bacon" cravings and that is gluten free. So if you are like me and avoid such meats, but miss your bacon, then please read on.
J&D's was kind enough to send me a complimentary jar of their "NATURAL Bacon Salt" which is gluten free and low sodium, and I was pleasantly surprised at the taste. Heck...it even smells like bacon.
I have tried it on baked potatoes with butter and sour cream. Although it doesn't have the crunch of bacon it adds a nice flavor.
I sprinkled it in my homemade potato and leek soup. It turns the soup a slight orange color, but tastes great, without actually adding any bacon.
I have even sprinkled a little on my "MOCK" BLT with tomatoes, lettuce and mayo. I sprinkle it on my scrambled eggs for that bacon and egg breakfast treat.
It is definitely not bacon, bacon is bacon of course, but for those of us who are "bacon free eaters" it is a nice substitute.
It has zero calories and zero fat. It is vegetarian, kosher and gluten free. It contains no artificial flavors, no MSG, no pork products and is low in sodium.
Their home site offers recipes of which I have yet to explore. As a substitute for the real thing I have to admit it does a decent job. If you are interested in trying the gluten free Natural Bacon Salt you can visit their website at http://www.baconsalt.com/
Rating: 4 1/2 STARS
JD's Natural Bacon Salt
Ingredients:
Salt
Garlic
Paprika
Maltodextrin
Autolyzed Yeast Extract, and less than 2% Silicon Dioxide added to prevent caking
Spices
Natural Flavor
J&D's was kind enough to send me a complimentary jar of their "NATURAL Bacon Salt" which is gluten free and low sodium, and I was pleasantly surprised at the taste. Heck...it even smells like bacon.
I have tried it on baked potatoes with butter and sour cream. Although it doesn't have the crunch of bacon it adds a nice flavor.
I sprinkled it in my homemade potato and leek soup. It turns the soup a slight orange color, but tastes great, without actually adding any bacon.
I have even sprinkled a little on my "MOCK" BLT with tomatoes, lettuce and mayo. I sprinkle it on my scrambled eggs for that bacon and egg breakfast treat.
It is definitely not bacon, bacon is bacon of course, but for those of us who are "bacon free eaters" it is a nice substitute.
It has zero calories and zero fat. It is vegetarian, kosher and gluten free. It contains no artificial flavors, no MSG, no pork products and is low in sodium.
Their home site offers recipes of which I have yet to explore. As a substitute for the real thing I have to admit it does a decent job. If you are interested in trying the gluten free Natural Bacon Salt you can visit their website at http://www.baconsalt.com/
Rating: 4 1/2 STARS
JD's Natural Bacon Salt
Ingredients:
Salt
Garlic
Paprika
Maltodextrin
Autolyzed Yeast Extract, and less than 2% Silicon Dioxide added to prevent caking
Spices
Natural Flavor
Product review....GONE native products
Today is my "Cooking" day when I assemble most of my family's meals for the next two weeks and then freeze. I have sauerkraut and kielbasa in the crock pot, turkey meat loaf in the oven and potato and leek soup simmering on the stove. Soon I will be making my taco meat mix for quick easy tacos for future lunches, but for now it was time to take a break and enjoy today's lunch.
I received a complimentary jar of "GONE natives" organic grown Tomato and Basil sauce along with a jar of their Raspberry-Honey Vinaigrette and decided this would be today's lunch as it is light and simple.
All of their products are grown locally to Lancaster. Pa. by a organic cooperative of more than 75 small scale family farms. All fruits, vegetables and herbs are organic (except for the raw honey as it is not produced locally). Little or no salt is added so you will need to add your own, or not. They also come packed in glass jars, the old fashioned way!
I love a pasta dish with light natural ingredients and Gone natives sauce did not leave me disappointed.The sauce itself contains all organic ingredients, you wont find anything artificial here and it is gluten free.
The taste is that of fresh tomatoes straight from the garden, chopped, then simmered with seeds, skins and all with just a faint hint of fresh hand picked herbs. Although it is a little more watery than most sauces, I found that when I left it sit for a few minutes combined with the noodles it became thickened slightly. If you like the taste of tomatoes picked fresh from garden then I am sure this sauce will delight your taste buds.
GONE native is located in Lancaster Pa and although they do not have online sales you can find their products in several states including Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Virginia. They do have a "Contact Us on their home page so if you would love to have their products in your area please drop them a line and let them know.
I would rate this 4 Stars only because it was a a little runny straight from the jar.
Tomato Basil Sauce
Ingredients:
Organic Tomatoes
Organic Basil
Organic Garlic
Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Sea Salt
Citric Acid
Organic Black Pepper
The Raspberry-Honey Vinaigrette has a sweetness of the raspberries and the tang of the vinegar. You can actually see the seeds and pieces of raspberries in the dressing, no skimping here. It tasted great on my salad to which I had added some fresh raspberries, walnuts and feta cheese on top of the greens and I didn't find the dressing to over power the salad but added a nice mix of flavors.
I would rate this dressing 4 1/2 Stars.
Raspberry-Honey Vinaigrette
Ingredients:
Water
Organic Sunflower Oil
Organic Red Wine Vinegar
Organic Raspberries
Raw Honey
Sea Salt
Xanthan Gum
Organic Black Pepper
I received a complimentary jar of "GONE natives" organic grown Tomato and Basil sauce along with a jar of their Raspberry-Honey Vinaigrette and decided this would be today's lunch as it is light and simple.
All of their products are grown locally to Lancaster. Pa. by a organic cooperative of more than 75 small scale family farms. All fruits, vegetables and herbs are organic (except for the raw honey as it is not produced locally). Little or no salt is added so you will need to add your own, or not. They also come packed in glass jars, the old fashioned way!
I love a pasta dish with light natural ingredients and Gone natives sauce did not leave me disappointed.The sauce itself contains all organic ingredients, you wont find anything artificial here and it is gluten free.
The taste is that of fresh tomatoes straight from the garden, chopped, then simmered with seeds, skins and all with just a faint hint of fresh hand picked herbs. Although it is a little more watery than most sauces, I found that when I left it sit for a few minutes combined with the noodles it became thickened slightly. If you like the taste of tomatoes picked fresh from garden then I am sure this sauce will delight your taste buds.
GONE native is located in Lancaster Pa and although they do not have online sales you can find their products in several states including Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Virginia. They do have a "Contact Us on their home page so if you would love to have their products in your area please drop them a line and let them know.
I would rate this 4 Stars only because it was a a little runny straight from the jar.
Tomato Basil Sauce
Ingredients:
Organic Tomatoes
Organic Basil
Organic Garlic
Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Sea Salt
Citric Acid
Organic Black Pepper
The Raspberry-Honey Vinaigrette has a sweetness of the raspberries and the tang of the vinegar. You can actually see the seeds and pieces of raspberries in the dressing, no skimping here. It tasted great on my salad to which I had added some fresh raspberries, walnuts and feta cheese on top of the greens and I didn't find the dressing to over power the salad but added a nice mix of flavors.
I would rate this dressing 4 1/2 Stars.
Raspberry-Honey Vinaigrette
Ingredients:
Water
Organic Sunflower Oil
Organic Red Wine Vinegar
Organic Raspberries
Raw Honey
Sea Salt
Xanthan Gum
Organic Black Pepper
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Product review...Sun Flour Mills GF Chocolate cake mix
As most of you know by now I love to bake. Cakes, cookies, brownies, breads...you name it I like to bake it. When I was younger it was kind of a stress reliever for me, however it seems that as of late it has become more of a passion, as a whole new world of taste choices has opened up right before my eyes.
I recently made a Gluten free whole grain chocolate cake from a mix compliments of Sun Flour Mills, a company located in Boise Idaho. All of Sun Flour Mills mixes and their flour mix are free of dairy, soy, wheat/gluten, nuts and eggs. Whole grains are incorporated into the mixes to provide not just great tasting products but also healthier products high in fiber and protein, something that many gluten free products on the market lack.
They were awarded "Best Overall Dessert" for their chocolate cake mix in both 2009 and 2010, both awards were in gluten free contests, and I can see why. The cake was moist, chocolaty and delicious. The top of the cake seemed to look very tender so instead of icing it I sprinkled a little powdered sugar on the top and dug in while still warm from the oven. I did seem to get a slight whole grain taste and texture in my mouth, but once the cake cooked this mostly seemed to go away. I do however like the fact that the fiber in the cake makes you feel full longer so I didn't have to go back for seconds as I normally would have. The edges of the cake seemed to pucker slightly and looked "dry" but this was not the case as it was still as moist as the rest of the cake.
The cake tasted even better the second day because I could really get the full effect of the creamy chocolaty taste of the cake itself, so moist and tender. The directions on the box were very simple to follow, just add eggs, oil and water. They even have "egg free" instructions on the box.
The directions said to use two 9" cake pans and since I was in a lazy mood I used a 9'x13' cake pan and my cake sunk slightly in the middle, so I do recommend following the directions if you want a well raised cake. This may have even been the cause for my top to have been so moist...
On their home site you will find recipes for variations of using this mix from a Caramel chocolate cake, Molton lava cake, Double chocolate chip cookies and several more, as you will with each of their mixes.
They even have a Resource list where you can find out more about the effects of gluten in your life.
Although the cake seemed very "tender" on the top and I chose not to attempt to put icing on mine, it may have just been because I used a larger pan. My family enjoyed the cake and it disappeared within days.
I would give this mix a 4 3/4 Star.
You can view all their products at http://sunflourmills.com
Ingredients:
Cane sugar
Cocoa
White rice flour
Sorghum flour
Cornstarch
Baking powder
Xanthan gum
Salt
Baking soda
I recently made a Gluten free whole grain chocolate cake from a mix compliments of Sun Flour Mills, a company located in Boise Idaho. All of Sun Flour Mills mixes and their flour mix are free of dairy, soy, wheat/gluten, nuts and eggs. Whole grains are incorporated into the mixes to provide not just great tasting products but also healthier products high in fiber and protein, something that many gluten free products on the market lack.
They were awarded "Best Overall Dessert" for their chocolate cake mix in both 2009 and 2010, both awards were in gluten free contests, and I can see why. The cake was moist, chocolaty and delicious. The top of the cake seemed to look very tender so instead of icing it I sprinkled a little powdered sugar on the top and dug in while still warm from the oven. I did seem to get a slight whole grain taste and texture in my mouth, but once the cake cooked this mostly seemed to go away. I do however like the fact that the fiber in the cake makes you feel full longer so I didn't have to go back for seconds as I normally would have. The edges of the cake seemed to pucker slightly and looked "dry" but this was not the case as it was still as moist as the rest of the cake.
The cake tasted even better the second day because I could really get the full effect of the creamy chocolaty taste of the cake itself, so moist and tender. The directions on the box were very simple to follow, just add eggs, oil and water. They even have "egg free" instructions on the box.
The directions said to use two 9" cake pans and since I was in a lazy mood I used a 9'x13' cake pan and my cake sunk slightly in the middle, so I do recommend following the directions if you want a well raised cake. This may have even been the cause for my top to have been so moist...
On their home site you will find recipes for variations of using this mix from a Caramel chocolate cake, Molton lava cake, Double chocolate chip cookies and several more, as you will with each of their mixes.
They even have a Resource list where you can find out more about the effects of gluten in your life.
Although the cake seemed very "tender" on the top and I chose not to attempt to put icing on mine, it may have just been because I used a larger pan. My family enjoyed the cake and it disappeared within days.
I would give this mix a 4 3/4 Star.
You can view all their products at http://sunflourmills.com
Ingredients:
Cane sugar
Cocoa
White rice flour
Sorghum flour
Cornstarch
Baking powder
Xanthan gum
Salt
Baking soda
Monday, May 7, 2012
Product review..." Flamous" Falafel Chips
On rainy days like today I like to sit around, relax and snack. Today both my Internet and TV were non- existent because of the rain storms passing through our area, so snack it was!
I had a light healthy snack with my lunch today, compliments of Flamous Falafel Chips.
Now for those of you who have been following the blog, you know that lately healthy eating is on top of my to do list. Well these chips are well on top of that list when it comes to health benefits. Ounce for ounce, the total antioxidant value of these chips measure 10x more than those of vegetable juice or green tea. They are a good source of fiber, protein and antioxidants.
You will find NO wheat, dairy, lactose, trans fat, cholesterol, MSG, hydrogenated oil, GMO, preservatives, artificial colors, artificial flavors or nuts in these chips, just great taste. They are also Certified Gluten Free and are Kid Kritics approved..
The chips come in two flavors, Original and Spicy. The company also has four flavors of Hummus Dressing and Dip. Sweet Cranberry, Ranch Dill, Mediterranean Basil and Smoked Chipolte.
Although the chips have a great taste straight from the bag they are both excellent dipped in hummus. After all this is THE chip for hummus dipping!
While I prefer the Originals dipped in garlic hummus my husband loves his a little on the spicier side, so the Spicy chips suite his tastes better.
The Original chips have a crisp texture and hold up well to the hummus. They are crunchy and satisfying, and you can actually taste the array of spices and vegetables in every bite. The Spicy chips have just the right amount of heat to them. The heat isn't immediate but comes slowly. My husband likes these dipped in hot salsa as much as he enjoys them dipped in hummus.
These are not only a good healthy choice but also a delicious choice. They go great with tuna or grilled chicken salad sandwiches for a great light lunch.
I give this chip 5 stars and highly recommend them. You can find them at http://www.flamousbrands.com
Ingredients for Original Chips:
Organic Non-GMO whole corn
One or more of the following Organic Non GMO whole beans:
(Chickpeas, Fava beans, Black beans)
One or more of the following Organic oils:
(Med-high Oleic expeller pressed Safflower, Sunflower)
Organic cumin
Organic onion
Organic basil
Organic garlic
Organic coriander seeds
Organic parsley
Organic spinach
Organic carrot
Organic red bell pepper
Organic tomato
Organic ginger
Organic turmeric
Organic lemon grass
Organic majoram
Organic oregano
Organic rosemary
Organic thyme
Organic green bell peppers
Organic celery
Organic cayenne chili
Sea salt
I had a light healthy snack with my lunch today, compliments of Flamous Falafel Chips.
Now for those of you who have been following the blog, you know that lately healthy eating is on top of my to do list. Well these chips are well on top of that list when it comes to health benefits. Ounce for ounce, the total antioxidant value of these chips measure 10x more than those of vegetable juice or green tea. They are a good source of fiber, protein and antioxidants.
You will find NO wheat, dairy, lactose, trans fat, cholesterol, MSG, hydrogenated oil, GMO, preservatives, artificial colors, artificial flavors or nuts in these chips, just great taste. They are also Certified Gluten Free and are Kid Kritics approved..
The chips come in two flavors, Original and Spicy. The company also has four flavors of Hummus Dressing and Dip. Sweet Cranberry, Ranch Dill, Mediterranean Basil and Smoked Chipolte.
Although the chips have a great taste straight from the bag they are both excellent dipped in hummus. After all this is THE chip for hummus dipping!
While I prefer the Originals dipped in garlic hummus my husband loves his a little on the spicier side, so the Spicy chips suite his tastes better.
The Original chips have a crisp texture and hold up well to the hummus. They are crunchy and satisfying, and you can actually taste the array of spices and vegetables in every bite. The Spicy chips have just the right amount of heat to them. The heat isn't immediate but comes slowly. My husband likes these dipped in hot salsa as much as he enjoys them dipped in hummus.
These are not only a good healthy choice but also a delicious choice. They go great with tuna or grilled chicken salad sandwiches for a great light lunch.
I give this chip 5 stars and highly recommend them. You can find them at http://www.flamousbrands.com
Ingredients for Original Chips:
Organic Non-GMO whole corn
One or more of the following Organic Non GMO whole beans:
(Chickpeas, Fava beans, Black beans)
One or more of the following Organic oils:
(Med-high Oleic expeller pressed Safflower, Sunflower)
Organic cumin
Organic onion
Organic basil
Organic garlic
Organic coriander seeds
Organic parsley
Organic spinach
Organic carrot
Organic red bell pepper
Organic tomato
Organic ginger
Organic turmeric
Organic lemon grass
Organic majoram
Organic oregano
Organic rosemary
Organic thyme
Organic green bell peppers
Organic celery
Organic cayenne chili
Sea salt
Saturday, May 5, 2012
Product review...Chappaqua Crunch granolas...
This morning was cold and rainy, like most of this past week has been. A warm bowl of oats would have been inviting, but since my gluten free batch of oats needs replenished, I decided to try a bowl of gluten free *Simply Granola,* compliments of Chappaqua Crunch.
Although the six original varieties of Chappaqua Crunch granola are wheat free, they do have two additional varieties that are also gluten free which come in a Flax and Fruit flavor and Vanilla and Flax flavor. I decided to try the Flax and fruit since I could see the whole almonds peeking through the see through window of the package just calling my name!
I was not disappointed. The oats were roasted to a satisfying crunch with just the right amount of sweetness added. It contains real fruits and nuts, and the almonds were crisp and crunchy. I could not taste the flax as I do with most brands, although I know it is in this particular variety as it is listed on the label . The oats stayed crunchy in the milk, and even though I like milk with my breakfast granola and cereals, this would be great right from the bag as a snack!
The Fruit and Flax granola variety contains: Gluten Free whole grain rolled oats, evaporated cane juice, roasted almonds, raisins, sweetened dried cranberries, oat bran, sunflower seeds, honey, flax seed meal, non-GMO canola oil, maple syrup and spices.
The thing I really liked about this granola other than the fact that it tasted great, is the fact that it is certified organic. It contains No trans fats, NO preservatives, NO artificial flavor, NO cholesterol and NO high fructose corn syrup or other corn sweeteners, and NO genetically modified ingredients. It is also an excellent source of whole grains and fiber. Now this is what a heart healthy breakfast should consist of.
The Flax and Fruit variety for a 1/3 cup serving has only 110 calories, only contains 3g of total fat, 0 cholesterol, 3g dietary fiber and 4g of sugars.
My husband usually eats granola most mornings for breakfast, and loved the taste and texture of their Vanilla and Flax variety. He said it reminded him of a Snickerdoodle cookie, and since he is a diabetic and therefore tries to avoid most sugar laden products, this was a real treat.
If purchasing the granola from their home site the Gluten free varieties cost $5.75 per 12 oz bag of about 11 servings and the wheat free varieties are $4.75 per 12 oz bag for approximately a 11 serving bag. The bags have a zipper seal which helps keep it fresh and aides with the elimination of having to place in airtight containers, making it easy to store. It also has a see through window in the front of the package so you can see the product you are getting.
Although I have not been able to find Chappaqua's products local to my area, the shipping and handling is also fairly reasonable ranging from $7 for a $20 order and up to $12 for orders of $100. If you purchase 12 bags of any one flavor you can also save 10% on the cost of the granola.
The six "wheat free" flavors are Original Granola, Simple Granola, Simple Granola with pomegranate and flax, Simple Granola with cranberries, Simple Granola with raspberries, Simple Granola with blueberries and bananas.
This company offers a favorable variety whether you are eating wheat free, or gluten free, and this product will now be added to my pantry as a regular staple. I can't wait to try the other flavors!
I would rate this product 5 Stars and would highly recommend it.
You can visit their site at: http://www.chappaquacrunchgranola.com
* Note about Wheat Free from Chappaqua:
We do not use wheat in our granola or our baking facility. The possibility exists that oats can be contaminated with other grains during harvest, transport or milling. We have our granola tested several times a year for gliadin, a component of gluten. The last test was conducted in July, 2010 and was negative at the 10 ppm level. A copy of our COA is available on request.
Although the six original varieties of Chappaqua Crunch granola are wheat free, they do have two additional varieties that are also gluten free which come in a Flax and Fruit flavor and Vanilla and Flax flavor. I decided to try the Flax and fruit since I could see the whole almonds peeking through the see through window of the package just calling my name!
I was not disappointed. The oats were roasted to a satisfying crunch with just the right amount of sweetness added. It contains real fruits and nuts, and the almonds were crisp and crunchy. I could not taste the flax as I do with most brands, although I know it is in this particular variety as it is listed on the label . The oats stayed crunchy in the milk, and even though I like milk with my breakfast granola and cereals, this would be great right from the bag as a snack!
The Fruit and Flax granola variety contains: Gluten Free whole grain rolled oats, evaporated cane juice, roasted almonds, raisins, sweetened dried cranberries, oat bran, sunflower seeds, honey, flax seed meal, non-GMO canola oil, maple syrup and spices.
The thing I really liked about this granola other than the fact that it tasted great, is the fact that it is certified organic. It contains No trans fats, NO preservatives, NO artificial flavor, NO cholesterol and NO high fructose corn syrup or other corn sweeteners, and NO genetically modified ingredients. It is also an excellent source of whole grains and fiber. Now this is what a heart healthy breakfast should consist of.
The Flax and Fruit variety for a 1/3 cup serving has only 110 calories, only contains 3g of total fat, 0 cholesterol, 3g dietary fiber and 4g of sugars.
My husband usually eats granola most mornings for breakfast, and loved the taste and texture of their Vanilla and Flax variety. He said it reminded him of a Snickerdoodle cookie, and since he is a diabetic and therefore tries to avoid most sugar laden products, this was a real treat.
If purchasing the granola from their home site the Gluten free varieties cost $5.75 per 12 oz bag of about 11 servings and the wheat free varieties are $4.75 per 12 oz bag for approximately a 11 serving bag. The bags have a zipper seal which helps keep it fresh and aides with the elimination of having to place in airtight containers, making it easy to store. It also has a see through window in the front of the package so you can see the product you are getting.
Although I have not been able to find Chappaqua's products local to my area, the shipping and handling is also fairly reasonable ranging from $7 for a $20 order and up to $12 for orders of $100. If you purchase 12 bags of any one flavor you can also save 10% on the cost of the granola.
The six "wheat free" flavors are Original Granola, Simple Granola, Simple Granola with pomegranate and flax, Simple Granola with cranberries, Simple Granola with raspberries, Simple Granola with blueberries and bananas.
This company offers a favorable variety whether you are eating wheat free, or gluten free, and this product will now be added to my pantry as a regular staple. I can't wait to try the other flavors!
I would rate this product 5 Stars and would highly recommend it.
You can visit their site at: http://www.chappaquacrunchgranola.com
* Note about Wheat Free from Chappaqua:
We do not use wheat in our granola or our baking facility. The possibility exists that oats can be contaminated with other grains during harvest, transport or milling. We have our granola tested several times a year for gliadin, a component of gluten. The last test was conducted in July, 2010 and was negative at the 10 ppm level. A copy of our COA is available on request.
Weigh in week 8...
I don't know where you live but where I am the weather is rainy and chilly. Lets hope my weekly progress can brighten my day!
Week 1: Week 8:
Weight 131.8 Weight 128.6
Waist 37 " Waist 33 1/2 "
Stomach 40 " Stomach 36 3/4 "
Hips 38 " Hips 37 1/4 "
My waist and hips are both down 1/4 " from last weeks weigh in, and down quite a bit from when I first started my wheat free living adventure. Remember as I said in the beginning of this quest..."Slow and steady wins the race".
My lifestyle is not ordinary by any means. I go to bed and arise at different times each day. I sometimes am so busy during the day that overlooking lunch is not unheard of, so I snack quite allot. (usually on wheat free sweets) Sorry!
I am here...there...everywhere. I love that aspect of my "NOW" life after years of following a strict routine of jobs and raising my children. I intend to make my retirement everything I have always dreamt of.
This new eating adventure is amazing. It gives me the time and options of experimenting with foods I virtually never knew existed, like flax, almond meal, coconut butter and flours. I never realized I was going through life with blinders on when it came to food choices. There are so many choices and options that have opened up to me, and hopefully to you.
I hope your new wheat free living adventure is bringing you steady results also. Till next post...Have a wheat free kind of day!
Week 1: Week 8:
Weight 131.8 Weight 128.6
Waist 37 " Waist 33 1/2 "
Stomach 40 " Stomach 36 3/4 "
Hips 38 " Hips 37 1/4 "
My waist and hips are both down 1/4 " from last weeks weigh in, and down quite a bit from when I first started my wheat free living adventure. Remember as I said in the beginning of this quest..."Slow and steady wins the race".
My lifestyle is not ordinary by any means. I go to bed and arise at different times each day. I sometimes am so busy during the day that overlooking lunch is not unheard of, so I snack quite allot. (usually on wheat free sweets) Sorry!
I am here...there...everywhere. I love that aspect of my "NOW" life after years of following a strict routine of jobs and raising my children. I intend to make my retirement everything I have always dreamt of.
This new eating adventure is amazing. It gives me the time and options of experimenting with foods I virtually never knew existed, like flax, almond meal, coconut butter and flours. I never realized I was going through life with blinders on when it came to food choices. There are so many choices and options that have opened up to me, and hopefully to you.
I hope your new wheat free living adventure is bringing you steady results also. Till next post...Have a wheat free kind of day!
Friday, May 4, 2012
Namaste Giveaway!
Namaste Giveaway: Gluten Free Product Bag
Namaste is offering one Gluten Free Bag and an assortment of gluten free products to one lucky reader of this blog.
To enter the giveaway, leave a comment to this post about your favorite gluten-free product or recipe.
Some brief guidelines: (1) one comment per person; (2) Make sure your comment provides a way for me to contact you by leaving your name, address, and email for which you can be reached and prize shipped should you become the winner. To view all Namaste products visit their site at http://www.namastefoods.com
Some brief guidelines: (1) one comment per person; (2) Make sure your comment provides a way for me to contact you by leaving your name, address, and email for which you can be reached and prize shipped should you become the winner. To view all Namaste products visit their site at http://www.namastefoods.com
DISCLOSURE: Namaste has provided me with product samples and product information and is offering the prize pack. Neither I am nor any immediate family member is an employee, officer, director or agent of Namaste or its respective parent, subsidiary and affiliated entities, advertising and promotional agencies.
Good Luck!
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Product review...Breads from Anna - GF Classic Herb
Last night I made a GF Classic Herb bread by Breads from Anna. Until recently when baking bread I have only used the Oven method directions, but for this one I made it in my new Black and Decker bread machine which makes a tall high loaf using the GF setting, although Anna gives you directions to make it both ways.
When first reading the ingredients list it didn't sound all that appealing to me. Tapioca flour, arrowroot flour, millet flour, maple sugar, potato starch, chia flour, pinto bean flour, navy bean flour, chickpea flour, onion flakes, rosemary, thyme, sage, parsley, yeast, xanthan gum, sea salt. By the time I got to the last eight ingredients it sounded a little better...
These mixes do contain bean flours so if you have problems tolerating bean flours these breads might not be the best choice for you. However if your allergens include dairy, soy, corn, nuts, wheat and even rice then read on, as these mixes might just be the best "bread fix" you could ever hope to find!
The bread had a perfect rise, it almost touched the window in my bread machine. The bread was soft, light and delicious with just the perfect amount of herbs. It had a delicious great whole grain flavor which was disarmingly similar to breads made with gluten with a outstanding texture.
The aroma of the bread during the baking cycle filled the kitchen with a sweetness similar to walking through a herb garden on a warm summer day. The bread didn't sink when cooling and sliced beautifully. Although the top of the loaf wasn't perfectly rounded this is the only negative thing I could say about this bread. I cheated and sliced off the top crust while the bread was still warm and lathered it in butter. Wow! I felt as I was in an expensive Italian restaurant and was being served hot Italian bread and dipping oil..........Mmmmm.
This bread freezes very well and makes excellent toasted bread for sandwiches on even grilled cheese. Great for making BLT's.
Breads from Anna's product line includes bread, pancake, muffin and pie crust mixes. They are all wheat/gluten, soy, nut, and rice free. Many of her mixes are also yeast, dairy and corn free. They are filled with healthy grains, contain lots of fiber but NO fillers or loads of added sugars.
I would give this Classic Herb bread 5 Stars!
You can purchase many of her products by clicking the GLUTEN FREE MALL button to the right top of page, or by visiting their home site at http://breadsfromanna.com
NUTRITION FACTS for Classic Herb Bread:
Serving Size 28g
Servings per container 21
Amount per serving
Calories 90
Calories from fat 0g
Total Fat 0g
Saturated Fat 0g
Trans Fat 0g
Cholesterol 0mg
Sodium 115mg - 5%
Total Carbohydrates 16g - 5%
Dietary Fiber 3g - 11%
Sugars 2g
Protein 2g
Vitamin A 0%
Vitamin C 2%
Calcium 4%
Iron 4%
.
When first reading the ingredients list it didn't sound all that appealing to me. Tapioca flour, arrowroot flour, millet flour, maple sugar, potato starch, chia flour, pinto bean flour, navy bean flour, chickpea flour, onion flakes, rosemary, thyme, sage, parsley, yeast, xanthan gum, sea salt. By the time I got to the last eight ingredients it sounded a little better...
These mixes do contain bean flours so if you have problems tolerating bean flours these breads might not be the best choice for you. However if your allergens include dairy, soy, corn, nuts, wheat and even rice then read on, as these mixes might just be the best "bread fix" you could ever hope to find!
The bread had a perfect rise, it almost touched the window in my bread machine. The bread was soft, light and delicious with just the perfect amount of herbs. It had a delicious great whole grain flavor which was disarmingly similar to breads made with gluten with a outstanding texture.
The aroma of the bread during the baking cycle filled the kitchen with a sweetness similar to walking through a herb garden on a warm summer day. The bread didn't sink when cooling and sliced beautifully. Although the top of the loaf wasn't perfectly rounded this is the only negative thing I could say about this bread. I cheated and sliced off the top crust while the bread was still warm and lathered it in butter. Wow! I felt as I was in an expensive Italian restaurant and was being served hot Italian bread and dipping oil..........Mmmmm.
This bread freezes very well and makes excellent toasted bread for sandwiches on even grilled cheese. Great for making BLT's.
Breads from Anna's product line includes bread, pancake, muffin and pie crust mixes. They are all wheat/gluten, soy, nut, and rice free. Many of her mixes are also yeast, dairy and corn free. They are filled with healthy grains, contain lots of fiber but NO fillers or loads of added sugars.
I would give this Classic Herb bread 5 Stars!
You can purchase many of her products by clicking the GLUTEN FREE MALL button to the right top of page, or by visiting their home site at http://breadsfromanna.com
NUTRITION FACTS for Classic Herb Bread:
Serving Size 28g
Servings per container 21
Amount per serving
Calories 90
Calories from fat 0g
Total Fat 0g
Saturated Fat 0g
Trans Fat 0g
Cholesterol 0mg
Sodium 115mg - 5%
Total Carbohydrates 16g - 5%
Dietary Fiber 3g - 11%
Sugars 2g
Protein 2g
Vitamin A 0%
Vitamin C 2%
Calcium 4%
Iron 4%
.
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