The cacao bean is a nourishing superfood that has played a fascinating role in the diet, medicine and culture of civilizations for many centuries. Now, Navitas Naturals (www.navitasnaturals.com) is giving this legendary “Food of the Gods” a delicious modern update by blending their popular raw organic cacao nibs with raw organic Cacao Paste (liquor) and organic sugar cane juice. Navitas Naturals’ Sweet Cacao Nibs are a delicious treat right out of the bag and they also add bold flavor and crunchy texture to a wide variety of recipes.
The organic cacao beans used in Navitas Naturals Sweet Cacao Nibs are hand-selected for quality in the rainforests of Peru, and are then partially fermented to alleviate bitterness. The beans are processed at low temperatures to maintain maximum nutrient retention. Once extracted from the pod-like fruit, the beans are cleansed with purified water, peeled and partially ground to form small “nibs.” The crunchy nibs are then rolled in Navitas Naturals raw organic Cacao Paste (liquor) and then lightly mixed with organic sugar cane juice to create the ultimate ‘real’ chocolate treat.
Navitas Naturals Sweet Cacao Nibs contain 100% pure ingredients that are certified organic, kosher, vegan and raw. This new product is packaged in a resealable stand-up bag and offered in two sizes: 4 oz. for $6.99; and 8 oz. $12.99. Sweet Cacao Nibs join Navitas Naturals’ popular line of Cacao Power products, which includes Raw Cacao Beans, Unsweetened Cacao Nibs, Cacao Powder, Cacao Paste (Liquor) and Cacao Butter. Navitas Naturals products are available at Whole Foods Markets and hundreds of other stores around North America, and they are also offered by many leading web retailers including Amazon (www.amazon.com).
The “Food of the Gods” – Raw Cacao is Chocolate in its Purest Form
Scientists are just beginning to understand the amazing nutrition and health benefits offered by raw cacao. It is one of the world’s best sources of powerful antioxidants, and is the richest food source of magnesium. Cacao also provides a vast array of essential minerals and nutrients including: Iron; Potassium; Vitamin C; proteins; beta-carotene; and alkaloids.
Sweet Cacao Nibs are good for more than just nibbling. Navitas Naturals is a superfood company that is focused on providing a culinary adventure for their customers, and they offer many recipes that have developed by cacao experts and raw food chefs. Many cacao recipes are included in Navitas Naturals’ new color recipe pamphlet, and even more are available at www.navitasnaturals.com. Some easy uses include blending Sweet Cacao Nibs into coconut or fruit-based smoothies or sprinkling them like chocolate chips on fresh fruit or ice cream. The Nibs are crunchy and do not melt when heated. Below is an original recipe by Navitas Naturals for a delicious and healthy Mint Chocolate Chip Shake.
A Healthy Superfood that is Good for Farming Communities and the Ecosystems that Support Them
Since 2003, Navitas Naturals’ mission has been to provide premium organic power foods that increase energy and enhance health. “Navitas Naturals is making it easier than ever for people to gain the optimal whole food nutrition they need to energize themselves throughout the day,” says Zach Adelman, President of Navitas Naturals. Through direct purchasing agreements, Navitas Naturals provides and expands fair trade economic opportunities in developing regions around the world. The cacao beans for the Sweet Cacao Nibs are sustainably sourced from small family farms in Peru. “Our products come from the wisdom of ancient cultures and their traditional use of plants for both culinary and medicinal purposes,” says Adelman. In addition to their own brand of superfoods and alternative sweeteners, Navitas Naturals supplies organic ingredients to other leading food companies. For more info, please visit www.navitasnaturals.com.
Mint Chocolate Chip Shake (by Jill Morgyn)
Ingredients:
1/4 Cup Navitas Naturals Cashews
2 TBSP Navitas Naturals Sweet Cacao Nibs
1 TBSP Navitas Naturals Hemp Powder
3 Cups Water or 2 Thia Young Coconuts of water with flesh
1 TBSP Organic Soy Lecithin
3 Pitted Medjool Dates
2 Drops Mint Oil
1TBSP Coconut Butter
1 Tsp Flax Oil
1 Tsp. Superfood Green powder (powdered grasses)
1TBSP Green tea (matcha) powder (optional)
1 Dash Sea Salt
Add ice to preference
Directions:
Blend on high speed until frothy and serve.
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Great Chefs Cook Vegan
Great Chefs™ Cook Vegan, by Linda Long (Gibbs Smith, $35.00, 9781423601531) is the recent recipient of five major cookbook awards, including PETA’s “Best Vegan Cookbook of the Year,” VegNews magazine’s “2008 Veggie Award for Cookbook of the Year,” January Magazine’s “Best Cookbook of 2008” and Gourmand’s “Best Vegetarian Cookbook,” nominated for “Best Cookbook in the World,” and a Vegetarian Times top “Veg 25.”
Unlike any other cookbook, Great Chefs™ Cook Vegan features recipes from 25 of today’s highest awarded chefs, including Daniel Boulud, Todd English, Thomas Keller, Jean-George Vongerichten, Eric Ripert, Charlie Trotter, and other great chefs, like Alex Stratta, Dan Barber, Erik Blauberg, John Besh, Cat Cora, David Burke, Gabriel Kreuther, Marcus Samuelsson, Matthew Kenney, Bradford Thompson, and Suzanne Goin. Many are recipients of the coveted James Beard Award for culinary excellence.
Veganism is quickly becoming a worldwide trend. Unlike vegetarians, vegans choose to exclude any type of meats or animal products from their diets, including eggs and dairy products. Vegan foods, such as whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and beans, are low in fat, contain no cholesterol and are rich in fiber and nutrients.
Living a vegan lifestyle is not always easy, especially while dining out. Great Chefs™ Cook Vegan features beautiful, delectable vegan recipes made by the finest hands in the restaurant industry.
Each chef section in Great Chefs™ Cook Vegan includes a three or four-course vegan meal, complete with mouth-watering photographs of each recipe. These delicious vegan recipes include Baby Beet Salad with Pistachio Vinaigrette and Chickpea Fritters, Sweet Pea Ravioli with Sautéed Pea Leaves, Stuffed Baby Bell Peppers with Sunflower Seed Risotto, and Chocolate Cake with a Chocolate Truffle Molten Center. Now, with instruction from the great chefs themselves, anyone can create a delicious vegan meal.
Unlike any other cookbook, Great Chefs™ Cook Vegan features recipes from 25 of today’s highest awarded chefs, including Daniel Boulud, Todd English, Thomas Keller, Jean-George Vongerichten, Eric Ripert, Charlie Trotter, and other great chefs, like Alex Stratta, Dan Barber, Erik Blauberg, John Besh, Cat Cora, David Burke, Gabriel Kreuther, Marcus Samuelsson, Matthew Kenney, Bradford Thompson, and Suzanne Goin. Many are recipients of the coveted James Beard Award for culinary excellence.
Veganism is quickly becoming a worldwide trend. Unlike vegetarians, vegans choose to exclude any type of meats or animal products from their diets, including eggs and dairy products. Vegan foods, such as whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and beans, are low in fat, contain no cholesterol and are rich in fiber and nutrients.
Living a vegan lifestyle is not always easy, especially while dining out. Great Chefs™ Cook Vegan features beautiful, delectable vegan recipes made by the finest hands in the restaurant industry.
Each chef section in Great Chefs™ Cook Vegan includes a three or four-course vegan meal, complete with mouth-watering photographs of each recipe. These delicious vegan recipes include Baby Beet Salad with Pistachio Vinaigrette and Chickpea Fritters, Sweet Pea Ravioli with Sautéed Pea Leaves, Stuffed Baby Bell Peppers with Sunflower Seed Risotto, and Chocolate Cake with a Chocolate Truffle Molten Center. Now, with instruction from the great chefs themselves, anyone can create a delicious vegan meal.
Allison's Gourmet Organic Vegan Truffles & Caramels
For more than a decade, Allison’s Gourmet has been delighting customers throughout North America with organic and vegan gourmet treats made from the finest ingredients. Today, the leading online organic gift shop (www.allisonsgourmet.com) is announcing a new 2-Piece Chocolates Box featuring their luscious organic vegan truffles and caramels.
Designed as a chocolate turn-down treat for owners of Bed & Breakfasts, Lodges and Hotels to give to their guests, the 2-Piece Chocolates Box from Allison's Gourmet offers a healthier way to indulge in something sweet because the premium truffles and caramels are freshly made with only the finest organic ingredients available. All of the gourmet goodies from Allison's Gourmet are free of animal ingredients, cholesterol and highly-refined sweeteners. So, although their organic treats are delicious for everyone, they are of special appeal to people with food sensitivities or who lead a vegan lifestyle.
Customers purchasing the new Allison’s Gourmet 2-Piece Chocolates Box can choose from six delicious varieties: Peanut Caramel, Pecan Caramel, Chocolate Caramel, Hazelnut Truffle, Almond Truffle and Mocha Truffle. The price for each gift box is $5.00, and like all of the scrumptious treats from Allison's Gourmet, it is artistically presented in eco-friendly gift packaging. The 2-Piece Chocolates Box also makes a great party favor for weddings and other special occasions.
In addition to the 2-Piece Chocolates Box, Allison's Gourmet also offers organic, vegan fair-trade chocolate "mints for the pillow". These small disks are in the shape of coins (rounds) and can be purchased in mint, plain dark chocolate or orange. They are sold for $1.00 each.
The collection from Allison's Gourmet also includes Vegan Fudge; Gourmet Cookies and Brownies; Chocolate Cups and Barks; Individually-wrapped Caramels; Crunchy Almond Toffees; Peanut Brittles; and Organic Coffee, Tea and Hot Cocoa. The Gourmet Gift Baskets and Gourmet Organic Gift Tins make spectacular gifts, and Sampler Packs are available for those who can't make up their mind and want to try some of everything.
Allison's Gourmet also offers popular Monthly Clubs that automatically deliver fresh baked cookies, brownies, and fudge each month. Members of the Cookie of the Month Club, the Brownie of the Month Club, and the Fudge of the Month Club also receive a 15% discount off all regularly priced orders. The Club Gourmet program, which sends cookies, brownies, and fudge each month to members, offers a 20% discount.
Artisan Baked Goodies
Allison's Gourmet offers a flavor and style of treat for everyone. Fudge flavors include: Original Vegan Fudge and Walnut Vegan Fudge, and rotating Flavors of the Month. Cookie flavors include: Classic Chocolate Chip, Chocolate Chip Pecan, Mint Chocolate Chip, Cinnamon Snickerdoodle, and rotating Flavors of the Month. Brownie flavors include: Original Heavenly Fudge, Pecan Heavenly Fudge, Half Original/Half Pecan Brownies, and rotating Flavors of the Month. Other confections include Vegan Chocolates Assortment, Just Vegan Caramels and Just Vegan Truffles. The Cups are offered in Organic Vegan Peanut Butter and Organic Vegan Peppermint Creme (think York Peppermint Patties for Foodies!). The Bark options include Organic Vegan Chocolate Almond Bark and Organic Vegan Peppermint Stick Bark. Individually-wrapped Caramels are available in Vanilla, Chocolate (think Tootsie Rolls for grown-ups!), and Chipotle, for the adventurous palate. Crunchy Almond Toffee flavors include Original and Chocolate, and Peanut Brittle is offered in Original and Spiced (with cinnamon and a touch of cayenne).
Organic Café – Tea, Hot Cocoa & Coffee
To compliment all of the exquisite products, consumers can also purchase premium organic beverages including teas, tisanes, hot cocoa and coffee. Allison's Gourmet Organic Teas and Tisanes are superior-grade loose-leaf teas and naturally caffeine-free herbal infusions. Allison's Gourmet Organic Hot Cocoa is a signature cocoa made with simple premium ingredients for a delicious cup of chocolate purity. All of the Allison's Gourmet Organic Coffees are not only organic, they are Fair Trade certified and shade-grown, too. These café items are available for food service as well.
"We choose organic ingredients for the health of the planet and its inhabitants, fair-trade for the economic health of farmers and shade grown for the protection of wildlife habitats," says company founder Allison Rivers Samson. "We are proud to offer decadence with a conscience," adds Samson.
Allison's Gourmet is not just socially responsible, it is award-winning, too. The online bakery has received Veggie Awards from VegNews Magazine as the Favorite Online Bakery in 2006 and the in Favorite Brownie 2004.
A life-long passion for sweets, coupled with a reverence for our planet and all of its inhabitants led Allison Rivers Samson to open Allison's Gourmet in 1997. Since then, Allison's Gourmet has been shipping their exquisite premium baked goods to homes and businesses all over the continent, including some of Hollywood's most prestigious addresses. Allison, whom lives in Northern California, completed her training at The School of Natural Cookery in Boulder, Colorado.
For more information about Allison's Gourmet including a complete list of ingredients and prices, please visit www.allisonsgourmet.com.
Designed as a chocolate turn-down treat for owners of Bed & Breakfasts, Lodges and Hotels to give to their guests, the 2-Piece Chocolates Box from Allison's Gourmet offers a healthier way to indulge in something sweet because the premium truffles and caramels are freshly made with only the finest organic ingredients available. All of the gourmet goodies from Allison's Gourmet are free of animal ingredients, cholesterol and highly-refined sweeteners. So, although their organic treats are delicious for everyone, they are of special appeal to people with food sensitivities or who lead a vegan lifestyle.
Customers purchasing the new Allison’s Gourmet 2-Piece Chocolates Box can choose from six delicious varieties: Peanut Caramel, Pecan Caramel, Chocolate Caramel, Hazelnut Truffle, Almond Truffle and Mocha Truffle. The price for each gift box is $5.00, and like all of the scrumptious treats from Allison's Gourmet, it is artistically presented in eco-friendly gift packaging. The 2-Piece Chocolates Box also makes a great party favor for weddings and other special occasions.
In addition to the 2-Piece Chocolates Box, Allison's Gourmet also offers organic, vegan fair-trade chocolate "mints for the pillow". These small disks are in the shape of coins (rounds) and can be purchased in mint, plain dark chocolate or orange. They are sold for $1.00 each.
The collection from Allison's Gourmet also includes Vegan Fudge; Gourmet Cookies and Brownies; Chocolate Cups and Barks; Individually-wrapped Caramels; Crunchy Almond Toffees; Peanut Brittles; and Organic Coffee, Tea and Hot Cocoa. The Gourmet Gift Baskets and Gourmet Organic Gift Tins make spectacular gifts, and Sampler Packs are available for those who can't make up their mind and want to try some of everything.
Allison's Gourmet also offers popular Monthly Clubs that automatically deliver fresh baked cookies, brownies, and fudge each month. Members of the Cookie of the Month Club, the Brownie of the Month Club, and the Fudge of the Month Club also receive a 15% discount off all regularly priced orders. The Club Gourmet program, which sends cookies, brownies, and fudge each month to members, offers a 20% discount.
Artisan Baked Goodies
Allison's Gourmet offers a flavor and style of treat for everyone. Fudge flavors include: Original Vegan Fudge and Walnut Vegan Fudge, and rotating Flavors of the Month. Cookie flavors include: Classic Chocolate Chip, Chocolate Chip Pecan, Mint Chocolate Chip, Cinnamon Snickerdoodle, and rotating Flavors of the Month. Brownie flavors include: Original Heavenly Fudge, Pecan Heavenly Fudge, Half Original/Half Pecan Brownies, and rotating Flavors of the Month. Other confections include Vegan Chocolates Assortment, Just Vegan Caramels and Just Vegan Truffles. The Cups are offered in Organic Vegan Peanut Butter and Organic Vegan Peppermint Creme (think York Peppermint Patties for Foodies!). The Bark options include Organic Vegan Chocolate Almond Bark and Organic Vegan Peppermint Stick Bark. Individually-wrapped Caramels are available in Vanilla, Chocolate (think Tootsie Rolls for grown-ups!), and Chipotle, for the adventurous palate. Crunchy Almond Toffee flavors include Original and Chocolate, and Peanut Brittle is offered in Original and Spiced (with cinnamon and a touch of cayenne).
Organic Café – Tea, Hot Cocoa & Coffee
To compliment all of the exquisite products, consumers can also purchase premium organic beverages including teas, tisanes, hot cocoa and coffee. Allison's Gourmet Organic Teas and Tisanes are superior-grade loose-leaf teas and naturally caffeine-free herbal infusions. Allison's Gourmet Organic Hot Cocoa is a signature cocoa made with simple premium ingredients for a delicious cup of chocolate purity. All of the Allison's Gourmet Organic Coffees are not only organic, they are Fair Trade certified and shade-grown, too. These café items are available for food service as well.
"We choose organic ingredients for the health of the planet and its inhabitants, fair-trade for the economic health of farmers and shade grown for the protection of wildlife habitats," says company founder Allison Rivers Samson. "We are proud to offer decadence with a conscience," adds Samson.
Allison's Gourmet is not just socially responsible, it is award-winning, too. The online bakery has received Veggie Awards from VegNews Magazine as the Favorite Online Bakery in 2006 and the in Favorite Brownie 2004.
A life-long passion for sweets, coupled with a reverence for our planet and all of its inhabitants led Allison Rivers Samson to open Allison's Gourmet in 1997. Since then, Allison's Gourmet has been shipping their exquisite premium baked goods to homes and businesses all over the continent, including some of Hollywood's most prestigious addresses. Allison, whom lives in Northern California, completed her training at The School of Natural Cookery in Boulder, Colorado.
For more information about Allison's Gourmet including a complete list of ingredients and prices, please visit www.allisonsgourmet.com.
Organic Vegan Truffles & Caramels
For more than a decade, Allison’s Gourmet has been delighting customers throughout North America with organic and vegan gourmet treats made from the finest ingredients. Today, the leading online organic gift shop (www.allisonsgourmet.com) is announcing a new 2-Piece Chocolates Box featuring their luscious organic vegan truffles and caramels.
Designed as a chocolate turn-down treat for owners of Bed & Breakfasts, Lodges and Hotels to give to their guests, the 2-Piece Chocolates Box from Allison's Gourmet offers a healthier way to indulge in something sweet because the premium truffles and caramels are freshly made with only the finest organic ingredients available. All of the gourmet goodies from Allison's Gourmet are free of animal ingredients, cholesterol and highly-refined sweeteners. So, although their organic treats are delicious for everyone, they are of special appeal to people with food sensitivities or who lead a vegan lifestyle.
Customers purchasing the new Allison’s Gourmet 2-Piece Chocolates Box can choose from six delicious varieties: Peanut Caramel, Pecan Caramel, Chocolate Caramel, Hazelnut Truffle, Almond Truffle and Mocha Truffle. The price for each gift box is $5.00, and like all of the scrumptious treats from Allison's Gourmet, it is artistically presented in eco-friendly gift packaging. The 2-Piece Chocolates Box also makes a great party favor for weddings and other special occasions.
In addition to the 2-Piece Chocolates Box, Allison's Gourmet also offers organic, vegan fair-trade chocolate "mints for the pillow". These small disks are in the shape of coins (rounds) and can be purchased in mint, plain dark chocolate or orange. They are sold for $1.00 each.
The collection from Allison's Gourmet also includes Vegan Fudge; Gourmet Cookies and Brownies; Chocolate Cups and Barks; Individually-wrapped Caramels; Crunchy Almond Toffees; Peanut Brittles; and Organic Coffee, Tea and Hot Cocoa. The Gourmet Gift Baskets and Gourmet Organic Gift Tins make spectacular gifts, and Sampler Packs are available for those who can't make up their mind and want to try some of everything.
Allison's Gourmet also offers popular Monthly Clubs that automatically deliver fresh baked cookies, brownies, and fudge each month. Members of the Cookie of the Month Club, the Brownie of the Month Club, and the Fudge of the Month Club also receive a 15% discount off all regularly priced orders. The Club Gourmet program, which sends cookies, brownies, and fudge each month to members, offers a 20% discount.
Artisan Baked Goodies
Allison's Gourmet offers a flavor and style of treat for everyone. Fudge flavors include: Original Vegan Fudge and Walnut Vegan Fudge, and rotating Flavors of the Month. Cookie flavors include: Classic Chocolate Chip, Chocolate Chip Pecan, Mint Chocolate Chip, Cinnamon Snickerdoodle, and rotating Flavors of the Month. Brownie flavors include: Original Heavenly Fudge, Pecan Heavenly Fudge, Half Original/Half Pecan Brownies, and rotating Flavors of the Month. Other confections include Vegan Chocolates Assortment, Just Vegan Caramels and Just Vegan Truffles. The Cups are offered in Organic Vegan Peanut Butter and Organic Vegan Peppermint Creme (think York Peppermint Patties for Foodies!). The Bark options include Organic Vegan Chocolate Almond Bark and Organic Vegan Peppermint Stick Bark. Individually-wrapped Caramels are available in Vanilla, Chocolate (think Tootsie Rolls for grown-ups!), and Chipotle, for the adventurous palate. Crunchy Almond Toffee flavors include Original and Chocolate, and Peanut Brittle is offered in Original and Spiced (with cinnamon and a touch of cayenne).
Organic Café – Tea, Hot Cocoa & Coffee
To compliment all of the exquisite products, consumers can also purchase premium organic beverages including teas, tisanes, hot cocoa and coffee. Allison's Gourmet Organic Teas and Tisanes are superior-grade loose-leaf teas and naturally caffeine-free herbal infusions. Allison's Gourmet Organic Hot Cocoa is a signature cocoa made with simple premium ingredients for a delicious cup of chocolate purity. All of the Allison's Gourmet Organic Coffees are not only organic, they are Fair Trade certified and shade-grown, too. These café items are available for food service as well.
"We choose organic ingredients for the health of the planet and its inhabitants, fair-trade for the economic health of farmers and shade grown for the protection of wildlife habitats," says company founder Allison Rivers Samson. "We are proud to offer decadence with a conscience," adds Samson.
Allison's Gourmet is not just socially responsible, it is award-winning, too. The online bakery has received Veggie Awards from VegNews Magazine as the Favorite Online Bakery in 2006 and the in Favorite Brownie 2004.
A life-long passion for sweets, coupled with a reverence for our planet and all of its inhabitants led Allison Rivers Samson to open Allison's Gourmet in 1997. Since then, Allison's Gourmet has been shipping their exquisite premium baked goods to homes and businesses all over the continent, including some of Hollywood's most prestigious addresses. Allison, whom lives in Northern California, completed her training at The School of Natural Cookery in Boulder, Colorado.
For more information about Allison's Gourmet including a complete list of ingredients and prices, please visit www.allisonsgourmet.com.
Designed as a chocolate turn-down treat for owners of Bed & Breakfasts, Lodges and Hotels to give to their guests, the 2-Piece Chocolates Box from Allison's Gourmet offers a healthier way to indulge in something sweet because the premium truffles and caramels are freshly made with only the finest organic ingredients available. All of the gourmet goodies from Allison's Gourmet are free of animal ingredients, cholesterol and highly-refined sweeteners. So, although their organic treats are delicious for everyone, they are of special appeal to people with food sensitivities or who lead a vegan lifestyle.
Customers purchasing the new Allison’s Gourmet 2-Piece Chocolates Box can choose from six delicious varieties: Peanut Caramel, Pecan Caramel, Chocolate Caramel, Hazelnut Truffle, Almond Truffle and Mocha Truffle. The price for each gift box is $5.00, and like all of the scrumptious treats from Allison's Gourmet, it is artistically presented in eco-friendly gift packaging. The 2-Piece Chocolates Box also makes a great party favor for weddings and other special occasions.
In addition to the 2-Piece Chocolates Box, Allison's Gourmet also offers organic, vegan fair-trade chocolate "mints for the pillow". These small disks are in the shape of coins (rounds) and can be purchased in mint, plain dark chocolate or orange. They are sold for $1.00 each.
The collection from Allison's Gourmet also includes Vegan Fudge; Gourmet Cookies and Brownies; Chocolate Cups and Barks; Individually-wrapped Caramels; Crunchy Almond Toffees; Peanut Brittles; and Organic Coffee, Tea and Hot Cocoa. The Gourmet Gift Baskets and Gourmet Organic Gift Tins make spectacular gifts, and Sampler Packs are available for those who can't make up their mind and want to try some of everything.
Allison's Gourmet also offers popular Monthly Clubs that automatically deliver fresh baked cookies, brownies, and fudge each month. Members of the Cookie of the Month Club, the Brownie of the Month Club, and the Fudge of the Month Club also receive a 15% discount off all regularly priced orders. The Club Gourmet program, which sends cookies, brownies, and fudge each month to members, offers a 20% discount.
Artisan Baked Goodies
Allison's Gourmet offers a flavor and style of treat for everyone. Fudge flavors include: Original Vegan Fudge and Walnut Vegan Fudge, and rotating Flavors of the Month. Cookie flavors include: Classic Chocolate Chip, Chocolate Chip Pecan, Mint Chocolate Chip, Cinnamon Snickerdoodle, and rotating Flavors of the Month. Brownie flavors include: Original Heavenly Fudge, Pecan Heavenly Fudge, Half Original/Half Pecan Brownies, and rotating Flavors of the Month. Other confections include Vegan Chocolates Assortment, Just Vegan Caramels and Just Vegan Truffles. The Cups are offered in Organic Vegan Peanut Butter and Organic Vegan Peppermint Creme (think York Peppermint Patties for Foodies!). The Bark options include Organic Vegan Chocolate Almond Bark and Organic Vegan Peppermint Stick Bark. Individually-wrapped Caramels are available in Vanilla, Chocolate (think Tootsie Rolls for grown-ups!), and Chipotle, for the adventurous palate. Crunchy Almond Toffee flavors include Original and Chocolate, and Peanut Brittle is offered in Original and Spiced (with cinnamon and a touch of cayenne).
Organic Café – Tea, Hot Cocoa & Coffee
To compliment all of the exquisite products, consumers can also purchase premium organic beverages including teas, tisanes, hot cocoa and coffee. Allison's Gourmet Organic Teas and Tisanes are superior-grade loose-leaf teas and naturally caffeine-free herbal infusions. Allison's Gourmet Organic Hot Cocoa is a signature cocoa made with simple premium ingredients for a delicious cup of chocolate purity. All of the Allison's Gourmet Organic Coffees are not only organic, they are Fair Trade certified and shade-grown, too. These café items are available for food service as well.
"We choose organic ingredients for the health of the planet and its inhabitants, fair-trade for the economic health of farmers and shade grown for the protection of wildlife habitats," says company founder Allison Rivers Samson. "We are proud to offer decadence with a conscience," adds Samson.
Allison's Gourmet is not just socially responsible, it is award-winning, too. The online bakery has received Veggie Awards from VegNews Magazine as the Favorite Online Bakery in 2006 and the in Favorite Brownie 2004.
A life-long passion for sweets, coupled with a reverence for our planet and all of its inhabitants led Allison Rivers Samson to open Allison's Gourmet in 1997. Since then, Allison's Gourmet has been shipping their exquisite premium baked goods to homes and businesses all over the continent, including some of Hollywood's most prestigious addresses. Allison, whom lives in Northern California, completed her training at The School of Natural Cookery in Boulder, Colorado.
For more information about Allison's Gourmet including a complete list of ingredients and prices, please visit www.allisonsgourmet.com.
January Is National Hot-Tea Month
In celebration of American Heart Month this February, it may be time to make a beverage switch for your heart’s sake.
Several observational studies have found that tea drinking is associated with a significantly reduced risk for cardiovascular disease. The research has found an association between consumption of both Green and Black Tea and decreased risk of heart attack, second heart attack and stroke. In addition, among human randomized controlled studies, over half conducted with Green Tea or Green Tea extract, improvement against cardiovascular disease risk is seen.
The antioxidant flavonoids in tea are thought to be one of the primary ways tea provides its cardiovascular benefits. Flavonoids in tea have been shown to improve the functionality of the endothelium (inner lining of blood vessels) so that they are more resilient and dilate more readily to improve blood flow.
Several decades of research support the role of tea as a heart-healthy beverage choice, suggesting that tea may offer numerous mechanisms through which it helps protect the heart. While more randomized controlled trials are needed, the totality of the research indicates that tea drinking makes good heart sense.
Presidential Tea Traditions:
In honor of the upcoming inauguration of the forty-fourth president of the United States, we would like to take a look at the tradition of tea among First Families in history.
George and Martha Washington were both confirmed tea drinkers well before Washington became President of the United States in 1789. The Washingtons ordered their tea, and many of the accoutrements used for serving tea, from England, and often entertained guests during “tea time” which was at sunset in the summer and by candlelight in the winter. During the Revolutionary War, Washington even sent an official order stating that rations of tea be distributed to every member of his army.
Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States also loved his tea. His passion for the beverage inspired him to design a polygonal-shaped Tea Room at Monticello. And, it was in the Tea Room where, upon a small lap desk he had designed, Jefferson wrote and edited the draft of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
President Theodore Roosevelt took his tea in an oversized cup every afternoon. He was partial to sweetened black tea with lemon and mint leaves. His wife, Edith, held weekly teas at the White House during the social season and invitations were highly coveted.
Franklin Delano Roosevelt and his wife Eleanor both grew up in families in which afternoon tea was a tradition. Mrs. Roosevelt was known to host up to eight teas in a week, ranging from small affairs with visiting dignitaries to large gatherings with guests numbering in the thousands.
President George Bush was known to favor green tea. His wife, Barbara, also regularly hosted afternoon teas in the White House for visiting foreign dignitaries. Romania and Germany presented the President and Mrs. Bush with samples of their country’s porcelain, as did Boris Yeltsin, at a farewell tea in Moscow in 1993.
During January’s National Hot Tea Month, please welcome the new president and first lady into the White House and toast to their health and ‘tea time’ traditions.
For more information about the role of tea in a healthy diet, please visit www.teausa.org.
Several observational studies have found that tea drinking is associated with a significantly reduced risk for cardiovascular disease. The research has found an association between consumption of both Green and Black Tea and decreased risk of heart attack, second heart attack and stroke. In addition, among human randomized controlled studies, over half conducted with Green Tea or Green Tea extract, improvement against cardiovascular disease risk is seen.
The antioxidant flavonoids in tea are thought to be one of the primary ways tea provides its cardiovascular benefits. Flavonoids in tea have been shown to improve the functionality of the endothelium (inner lining of blood vessels) so that they are more resilient and dilate more readily to improve blood flow.
Several decades of research support the role of tea as a heart-healthy beverage choice, suggesting that tea may offer numerous mechanisms through which it helps protect the heart. While more randomized controlled trials are needed, the totality of the research indicates that tea drinking makes good heart sense.
Presidential Tea Traditions:
In honor of the upcoming inauguration of the forty-fourth president of the United States, we would like to take a look at the tradition of tea among First Families in history.
George and Martha Washington were both confirmed tea drinkers well before Washington became President of the United States in 1789. The Washingtons ordered their tea, and many of the accoutrements used for serving tea, from England, and often entertained guests during “tea time” which was at sunset in the summer and by candlelight in the winter. During the Revolutionary War, Washington even sent an official order stating that rations of tea be distributed to every member of his army.
Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States also loved his tea. His passion for the beverage inspired him to design a polygonal-shaped Tea Room at Monticello. And, it was in the Tea Room where, upon a small lap desk he had designed, Jefferson wrote and edited the draft of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
President Theodore Roosevelt took his tea in an oversized cup every afternoon. He was partial to sweetened black tea with lemon and mint leaves. His wife, Edith, held weekly teas at the White House during the social season and invitations were highly coveted.
Franklin Delano Roosevelt and his wife Eleanor both grew up in families in which afternoon tea was a tradition. Mrs. Roosevelt was known to host up to eight teas in a week, ranging from small affairs with visiting dignitaries to large gatherings with guests numbering in the thousands.
President George Bush was known to favor green tea. His wife, Barbara, also regularly hosted afternoon teas in the White House for visiting foreign dignitaries. Romania and Germany presented the President and Mrs. Bush with samples of their country’s porcelain, as did Boris Yeltsin, at a farewell tea in Moscow in 1993.
During January’s National Hot Tea Month, please welcome the new president and first lady into the White House and toast to their health and ‘tea time’ traditions.
For more information about the role of tea in a healthy diet, please visit www.teausa.org.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Kentucky Inaugural Ball - Washington Post pick
For the second time in a row, the Washington Post has picked Kentucky’s Bluegrass Ball, for an Editor’s Pick of the 2009 inaugural balls.
Also named an "Editor’s Pick" by the Washington Post in 2005, The Bluegrass Ball is the first of the quadrennial black-tie celebrations of the presidential inauguration and sets the standard for the 2009 inaugural ball season.
The Ball will start at 6:00 PM on Monday, January 19, 2009 at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel in Washington DC and is sponsored by the Kentucky Society of Washington. (The first Bluegrass Ball was held in 1949, when Vice-President Alben W. Barkley was honored by the Society.)
Attending dignitaries include Governor Steven Beshear, Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell with the entire Kentucky congressional delegation along with various national celebrities who are from Kentucky. Over 1400 people are expected to attend, with over 75% of the guests coming up from Kentucky.
This year's guest chef is Michael Paley of Proof on Main in Louisville who has created a Kentucky friendly menu. Most of the items on the evening's menu will be shipped up from Kentucky including 350 pounds of Kentucky bison tenderloin, 350 pounds of strip bass and 720 heads of Bibb lettuce.
The lilies in the flower arrangement will be brought up by Sharon Bale, floriculturist and horticulture professor at the University of Kentucky who with 10 volunteers make about 150 centerpieces in about 24 hours.
The Kentucky Distillers Association will feature a "Kentucky Bourbon Trail" with most of the Kentucky distillers having exhibits during the reception. Distillers at the Bluegrass Ball reception include Beam Global Spirits and Wine, Brown-Forman's Woodford Reserve, Buffalo Trace, Bulleit Bourbon, Four Roses Bourbon, Maker's Mark and Wild Turkey Bourbon.
Scheduled to call people to dinner will be the Churchill Downs bugler; a Kentucky celebrity will be the Master of ceremonies along with Kentucky entertainment, one of the Kentucky Governor’s favorite band, “Joey and the Cruisers”.
Guests will receive gift bags filled with Kentucky souvenirs and products.
The Kentucky Society of Washington, a not for profit organization, was founded in 1912 with a purpose to promote goodwill, fellowship and amicable relations among Kentuckians in the Nation’s Capital region. The Society is one of the oldest state societies in the nation’s capital.
The society currently has 400 members, both resident and nonresident, and is one of the four (4) largest state societies in Washington.
The public can get information on the event from Anne-Marie Kelley, Chair of the Bluegrass Ball at 202.399.2032 or inauguralballchair@kentuckysociety.org
Sponsorship information can be obtained from Brandon Kirkham at president@kentuckysociety.org.
Also named an "Editor’s Pick" by the Washington Post in 2005, The Bluegrass Ball is the first of the quadrennial black-tie celebrations of the presidential inauguration and sets the standard for the 2009 inaugural ball season.
The Ball will start at 6:00 PM on Monday, January 19, 2009 at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel in Washington DC and is sponsored by the Kentucky Society of Washington. (The first Bluegrass Ball was held in 1949, when Vice-President Alben W. Barkley was honored by the Society.)
Attending dignitaries include Governor Steven Beshear, Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell with the entire Kentucky congressional delegation along with various national celebrities who are from Kentucky. Over 1400 people are expected to attend, with over 75% of the guests coming up from Kentucky.
This year's guest chef is Michael Paley of Proof on Main in Louisville who has created a Kentucky friendly menu. Most of the items on the evening's menu will be shipped up from Kentucky including 350 pounds of Kentucky bison tenderloin, 350 pounds of strip bass and 720 heads of Bibb lettuce.
The lilies in the flower arrangement will be brought up by Sharon Bale, floriculturist and horticulture professor at the University of Kentucky who with 10 volunteers make about 150 centerpieces in about 24 hours.
The Kentucky Distillers Association will feature a "Kentucky Bourbon Trail" with most of the Kentucky distillers having exhibits during the reception. Distillers at the Bluegrass Ball reception include Beam Global Spirits and Wine, Brown-Forman's Woodford Reserve, Buffalo Trace, Bulleit Bourbon, Four Roses Bourbon, Maker's Mark and Wild Turkey Bourbon.
Scheduled to call people to dinner will be the Churchill Downs bugler; a Kentucky celebrity will be the Master of ceremonies along with Kentucky entertainment, one of the Kentucky Governor’s favorite band, “Joey and the Cruisers”.
Guests will receive gift bags filled with Kentucky souvenirs and products.
The Kentucky Society of Washington, a not for profit organization, was founded in 1912 with a purpose to promote goodwill, fellowship and amicable relations among Kentuckians in the Nation’s Capital region. The Society is one of the oldest state societies in the nation’s capital.
The society currently has 400 members, both resident and nonresident, and is one of the four (4) largest state societies in Washington.
The public can get information on the event from Anne-Marie Kelley, Chair of the Bluegrass Ball at 202.399.2032 or inauguralballchair@kentuckysociety.org
Sponsorship information can be obtained from Brandon Kirkham at president@kentuckysociety.org.
Friday, January 2, 2009
Mammography Van On-Site at Catherines' Clothing Store
The St. Elizabeth Mobile Mammography Van
will be at Catherines Plus-Sized Clothing store in Florence Square on
January 17, 2009 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. to provide women with
mammogram screenings. The event is being sponsored by the Northern Kentucky
Women's Cancer Coalition.
Women who are 40 years or older and haven’t had a mammogram in two years or
more need to sign-up to be screened. Pre-registration is required by
calling (859) 815-1385 by January 15, 2009 to schedule an appointment.
Financial assistance is available thanks to a generous grant from The Susan
G. Komen Foundation. If eligible, the screening will be 100 percent paid
for by this grant from The Susan G. Komen foundation. All women who are
screened will receive a $10.00 Kroger gift certificate. Catherines
Plus-Sized Clothing store is located on 7742 Mall Road, Florence Square in
Florence, KY.
The American Cancer Society recommends all women, beginning at age 40, get
an annual mammogram. When detected early, breast cancer patients have a 98
percent five year survival rate. In 2008, The American Cancer Society
estimated more than 2,600 Kentucky women would be diagnosed with breast
cancer and nearly 600 women were estimated to die from this often treatable
disease. For information on breast cancer, call the American Cancer Society
at 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.
The American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major
health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering and preventing cancer
through research, education, advocacy and service. Founded in 1913 and with
national headquarters in Atlanta, the Society has 13 regional Divisions and
local offices in 3,400 communities, involving millions of volunteers across
the United States.
will be at Catherines Plus-Sized Clothing store in Florence Square on
January 17, 2009 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. to provide women with
mammogram screenings. The event is being sponsored by the Northern Kentucky
Women's Cancer Coalition.
Women who are 40 years or older and haven’t had a mammogram in two years or
more need to sign-up to be screened. Pre-registration is required by
calling (859) 815-1385 by January 15, 2009 to schedule an appointment.
Financial assistance is available thanks to a generous grant from The Susan
G. Komen Foundation. If eligible, the screening will be 100 percent paid
for by this grant from The Susan G. Komen foundation. All women who are
screened will receive a $10.00 Kroger gift certificate. Catherines
Plus-Sized Clothing store is located on 7742 Mall Road, Florence Square in
Florence, KY.
The American Cancer Society recommends all women, beginning at age 40, get
an annual mammogram. When detected early, breast cancer patients have a 98
percent five year survival rate. In 2008, The American Cancer Society
estimated more than 2,600 Kentucky women would be diagnosed with breast
cancer and nearly 600 women were estimated to die from this often treatable
disease. For information on breast cancer, call the American Cancer Society
at 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.
The American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major
health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering and preventing cancer
through research, education, advocacy and service. Founded in 1913 and with
national headquarters in Atlanta, the Society has 13 regional Divisions and
local offices in 3,400 communities, involving millions of volunteers across
the United States.
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
KickBrix Energy Chews
If you like the energy that caffeine gives you but worry about the calories and carbs contained in coffee drinks and energy drinks loaded with sugar, you’ll enjoy this new all natural high energy chewable snack.
KickBrix Energy Chews are a bold fresh flavored low carb no sugar chewable snack.
KickBrix contain a powerful blend of vitamin B-12, ginseng, and taurine, with zero sugar and only 25 calories. There are five chews in a bag. KickBrix Energy Chews are currently available in two flavors – Citrus Blast and Berry Blast, each with a fresh menthol boost.
Pow! Whenever you need to boost your energy or concentration chew a KickBrix Energy Chew.
Suffering some serious mental and physical drain right before the big test at school? Getting tired and sleepy on the road? Falling a sleep at work? Need to wake up to get going at exercise class? Just pop ‘em in your mouth about 5 minutes before you need that burst of energy. You don’t need to wait 30 minutes like those “energy” (yawn) drinks … With KickBrix you get kickin’ right away!
Each KickBrix Energy Chew contains 90 mg of caffeine … which is way less than a small cup of Starbuck’s coffee. The company recommends that you take no more than 5 KickBrix Energy Chews per day until you see how kickin’ the effects are for you personally. Remember there’s caffeine in there so make sure you’re not sensitive to it, as sensitivity varies from person to person. Take caffeine responsibly!
KickBrix Energy Chews retail for $3.99 per bag (5 chews). A box of KickBrix with ten bags (50 chews) is $24.99. A jar with 100 chews is $44.99. KickBrix Energy Chews are currently available in two flavors – Citrus Blast and Berry Blast.
KickBrix Energy Chews are 100% Gluten Free 100% Vegetarian and Vegan. The FDA categorizes KickBrix Energy Chews as a dietary supplement.
Available online at www.kickbrix.com and at selected stores nationwide.
KickBrix Energy Chews are a bold fresh flavored low carb no sugar chewable snack.
KickBrix contain a powerful blend of vitamin B-12, ginseng, and taurine, with zero sugar and only 25 calories. There are five chews in a bag. KickBrix Energy Chews are currently available in two flavors – Citrus Blast and Berry Blast, each with a fresh menthol boost.
Pow! Whenever you need to boost your energy or concentration chew a KickBrix Energy Chew.
Suffering some serious mental and physical drain right before the big test at school? Getting tired and sleepy on the road? Falling a sleep at work? Need to wake up to get going at exercise class? Just pop ‘em in your mouth about 5 minutes before you need that burst of energy. You don’t need to wait 30 minutes like those “energy” (yawn) drinks … With KickBrix you get kickin’ right away!
Each KickBrix Energy Chew contains 90 mg of caffeine … which is way less than a small cup of Starbuck’s coffee. The company recommends that you take no more than 5 KickBrix Energy Chews per day until you see how kickin’ the effects are for you personally. Remember there’s caffeine in there so make sure you’re not sensitive to it, as sensitivity varies from person to person. Take caffeine responsibly!
KickBrix Energy Chews retail for $3.99 per bag (5 chews). A box of KickBrix with ten bags (50 chews) is $24.99. A jar with 100 chews is $44.99. KickBrix Energy Chews are currently available in two flavors – Citrus Blast and Berry Blast.
KickBrix Energy Chews are 100% Gluten Free 100% Vegetarian and Vegan. The FDA categorizes KickBrix Energy Chews as a dietary supplement.
Available online at www.kickbrix.com and at selected stores nationwide.
G. Bailey's Open In Loveland
Stevens Hospitality announced today the opening of its latest restaurant in Loveland, OH. The Blue Ash based company that operates The Golden Lamb Restaurant and Inn has opened G Bailey’s, a family centric restaurant offering quality menu items at family friendly prices.
“G Bailey’s was created with families and the current economy in mind,” said Steven D Mullinger, President of Stevens Hospitality. “We have a large, busy family and we find it convenient to eat out, just like many families do. With G Bailey’s our goal was to create a causal dining experience that offered diners top quality food that was also affordable for families watching their budgets.”
The menu for G Bailey’s was developed by Chef Aaron Gardner, Corporate Executive Chef for Steven’s Hospitality. Menu items at the restaurant include traditional American fare such as burgers, club sandwiches and also brick oven pizzas. G Bailey’s features rotisserie prepared entrées (beef tenderloin, chicken and pork loin), pastas, steaks, sandwiches and entrée style salads. For additional value, all entrées are served with G Bailey’s 3-tier salad and mashed potatoes a-la-you. Entrées start as low as $5.95.
The restaurant features a fully stocked bar and an outdoor patio which is slated to open spring 2009.
G Bailey’s is located at 9521 Fields Ertel Road in Loveland. The restaurant is open Monday-Saturday from 11am-9pm (closed Sunday) and the bar is open until 10pm, serving appetizers and brick oven pizzas. For more information, call (513) 683-2011.
“G Bailey’s was created with families and the current economy in mind,” said Steven D Mullinger, President of Stevens Hospitality. “We have a large, busy family and we find it convenient to eat out, just like many families do. With G Bailey’s our goal was to create a causal dining experience that offered diners top quality food that was also affordable for families watching their budgets.”
The menu for G Bailey’s was developed by Chef Aaron Gardner, Corporate Executive Chef for Steven’s Hospitality. Menu items at the restaurant include traditional American fare such as burgers, club sandwiches and also brick oven pizzas. G Bailey’s features rotisserie prepared entrées (beef tenderloin, chicken and pork loin), pastas, steaks, sandwiches and entrée style salads. For additional value, all entrées are served with G Bailey’s 3-tier salad and mashed potatoes a-la-you. Entrées start as low as $5.95.
The restaurant features a fully stocked bar and an outdoor patio which is slated to open spring 2009.
G Bailey’s is located at 9521 Fields Ertel Road in Loveland. The restaurant is open Monday-Saturday from 11am-9pm (closed Sunday) and the bar is open until 10pm, serving appetizers and brick oven pizzas. For more information, call (513) 683-2011.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Eat Your Colors
"Eat your colors!" we're told by nutrition scientists. And that means lots of fruits and vegetables, in a wide range of color (reds, purples, blues, golden yellows, oranges) that when added to the diet provide not only essential nutrients, but also powerful antioxidants which help prevent and repair oxidative stress
Fruits and vegetables come in terrific colors and flavors, but their real beauty lies in what's inside. Colorful produce isn't just a feast for the eyes, it's also really medicine. For more variety, try new fruits and vegetables regularly.
How much is enough? NCI recommends that adults eat between 7 and 11 servings of fruits and vegetables daily. Some people may be daunted by the number of recommended servings but a serving is smaller than most people think. A serving can be ¼ cup (dried fruit), ½ cup (fresh fruit or vegetable) or 1 cup (leafy salad greens).
We frequently eat more than one serving at a time. For example, a large salad with 2 cups of leafy veggies, some onion, bell pepper and tomato can offer up to 5 or 6 servings. A breakfast including a small glass of juice and raisins in your oatmeal could mean you've started your day with at least 2 servings.
Radicchio, Spinach & Pear Salad
Makes 8 servings
1/2 head Royal Rose™ radicchio, cored and chopped
1 10-oz. bag fresh spinach leaves, chopped
3 ripe Bartlett pears, cored and sliced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
6 ounces crumbled Gorgonzola (or other creamy blue cheese)
1/2 cup caramelized pecans* (or chopped pecans)
Combine chopped radicchio, spinach leaves, sliced Bartlett pear and red onion in a bowl. In small saucepan, heat vinegar and oil gently over medium heat until hot; immediately pour dressing over salad and toss until evenly dressed. Season with salt and pepper, top with crumbled Gorgonzola and caramelized pecans and serve at once.
Caramelized Pecans:
1/2 cup sugar
2 tablespoons water
1 cup pecan halves, lightly toasted*
Lightly grease a rimmed cookie sheet. Set aside. In a small saucepan bring sugar and water to a boil. Increase heat to medium-high and cook syrup without stirring until mixture turns golden, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in pecans, and then spread pecans in a single layer on prepared sheet. Let stand until cool, then break into small pieces. Makes 1 cup. Store covered at room temperature.
*To toast nuts, place on a shallow baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees F for 10 minutes, until fragrant.
Fruits and vegetables come in terrific colors and flavors, but their real beauty lies in what's inside. Colorful produce isn't just a feast for the eyes, it's also really medicine. For more variety, try new fruits and vegetables regularly.
How much is enough? NCI recommends that adults eat between 7 and 11 servings of fruits and vegetables daily. Some people may be daunted by the number of recommended servings but a serving is smaller than most people think. A serving can be ¼ cup (dried fruit), ½ cup (fresh fruit or vegetable) or 1 cup (leafy salad greens).
We frequently eat more than one serving at a time. For example, a large salad with 2 cups of leafy veggies, some onion, bell pepper and tomato can offer up to 5 or 6 servings. A breakfast including a small glass of juice and raisins in your oatmeal could mean you've started your day with at least 2 servings.
Radicchio, Spinach & Pear Salad
Makes 8 servings
1/2 head Royal Rose™ radicchio, cored and chopped
1 10-oz. bag fresh spinach leaves, chopped
3 ripe Bartlett pears, cored and sliced
1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
3 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
6 ounces crumbled Gorgonzola (or other creamy blue cheese)
1/2 cup caramelized pecans* (or chopped pecans)
Combine chopped radicchio, spinach leaves, sliced Bartlett pear and red onion in a bowl. In small saucepan, heat vinegar and oil gently over medium heat until hot; immediately pour dressing over salad and toss until evenly dressed. Season with salt and pepper, top with crumbled Gorgonzola and caramelized pecans and serve at once.
Caramelized Pecans:
1/2 cup sugar
2 tablespoons water
1 cup pecan halves, lightly toasted*
Lightly grease a rimmed cookie sheet. Set aside. In a small saucepan bring sugar and water to a boil. Increase heat to medium-high and cook syrup without stirring until mixture turns golden, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat. Stir in pecans, and then spread pecans in a single layer on prepared sheet. Let stand until cool, then break into small pieces. Makes 1 cup. Store covered at room temperature.
*To toast nuts, place on a shallow baking sheet and bake at 350 degrees F for 10 minutes, until fragrant.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Cincinnati Area CiCi's Stores Offer "Recession Relief"
CiCi’s Pizza has always been known for selling good food at a great price with their “all you can eat pizza, pasta, salad and dessert buffet.” Now, Cincinnati franchisees will come together to offer even better value on their buffet menu pricing for a two-month period. Six CiCi’s Pizza stores will offer customers a discounted buffet at $4.99, normally $5.49, from Dec. 29, 2008 to Feb. 28, 2009.
“During this economic downturn, we all wanted to encourage patrons to continue dining out by providing a concession on our buffet pricing,” says Bryan Jones, franchise owner. “We like to consider it a small recession-relief incentive.”
The participating stores are:
Tri-County /459 East Kemper Road, Springdale, Ohio - 513-671-0771
Eastgate/ 830 Eastgate Drive South, Cincinnati, Ohio – 513-753-7593
Florence/ 4989 Houston Road, Florence, KY,- 859-525-6380
Norwood/ 4410 Montgomery Road, Norwood Ohio- 513-376-8842
West Chester/ 7645- Voice of America Drive, West Chester Ohio - 513-463-2424
Fairfield/ 5478 Dixie Hwy, Fairfield, Ohio – 513-858-2225
CiCi’s serves a variety of specialty pizzas including Tangy BBQ and Macaroni and Cheese Pizza. The dough, pasta and sauces are made fresh daily, as are the desserts. There is also a Salad Bar and soup available on the buffet. If guests don’t have time to dine in the store, 15” large one-topping pizzas are available for pick-up for only $5.99.
Founded in 1985, CiCi's Pizza is a family-oriented restaurant serving guests fresh pizza, pasta, salad and dessert, all you want for an unbelievable value. CiCi’s mission then and now is to exceed each guest's expectation in food, service and cleanliness at an affordable price. Since opening its first restaurant in Plano, Texas, CiCi’s has grown to almost 650 restaurants in 30 states. For more information visit www.cicispizza.com.
“During this economic downturn, we all wanted to encourage patrons to continue dining out by providing a concession on our buffet pricing,” says Bryan Jones, franchise owner. “We like to consider it a small recession-relief incentive.”
The participating stores are:
Tri-County /459 East Kemper Road, Springdale, Ohio - 513-671-0771
Eastgate/ 830 Eastgate Drive South, Cincinnati, Ohio – 513-753-7593
Florence/ 4989 Houston Road, Florence, KY,- 859-525-6380
Norwood/ 4410 Montgomery Road, Norwood Ohio- 513-376-8842
West Chester/ 7645- Voice of America Drive, West Chester Ohio - 513-463-2424
Fairfield/ 5478 Dixie Hwy, Fairfield, Ohio – 513-858-2225
CiCi’s serves a variety of specialty pizzas including Tangy BBQ and Macaroni and Cheese Pizza. The dough, pasta and sauces are made fresh daily, as are the desserts. There is also a Salad Bar and soup available on the buffet. If guests don’t have time to dine in the store, 15” large one-topping pizzas are available for pick-up for only $5.99.
Founded in 1985, CiCi's Pizza is a family-oriented restaurant serving guests fresh pizza, pasta, salad and dessert, all you want for an unbelievable value. CiCi’s mission then and now is to exceed each guest's expectation in food, service and cleanliness at an affordable price. Since opening its first restaurant in Plano, Texas, CiCi’s has grown to almost 650 restaurants in 30 states. For more information visit www.cicispizza.com.
Daveed's Hosts Four-Course Capriole Cheese and Wine Dinner
On Friday, January 16, just “Say Cheese” at Daveed’s Restaurant. Chef-owner David Cook will offer a four-course wine and cheese dinner that showcases Capriole cheeses from Indiana. Capriole’s owner and cheese maker Judy Schad will be in attendance to talk about her award-winning cheeses. Chef David has incorporated a variety of her cheeses into his dinner menu recipes and paired a wine with each course. The dinner begins at 7 p.m. and is $50 per person, plus tax and 20 % gratuity. (A $25 credit card deposit is required with the reservation and the deposit is deducted off the final bill.) Reservations are necessary and can be made by calling (513) 721-2665.
Said chef David, “It was wonderful to be able to cook with so many wonderful artisanal cheeses. I’m pleased that Judy will be here to talk with our guests that evening about how she creates her cheeses.”
The menu for the Daveed’s Capriole Wine and Cheese Dinner incorporates a variety of cheeses from this Indiana company. The menu includes:
Amuse Bouche
Truffle Petite Soup with Chevre
Wine Pairing: Gruet Sparkling, New Mexico
Baby Arugula with Chantal, Olives, Garlic, Olive Oil, Grilled Bread
Wine Pairing: Vernacchia
Roasted Root Vegetables with Sofia Goat Cheese, Medjool Date Puree
and Rosemary Tuile
Wine Pairing: Martin Codax Albarino
Kentucky Tomme “Fonduta” with Apple Bourbon Shooter,
Wild Mushroom Bread Crisp
Wine Pairing: Burgundy
Prime NY Strip Slices
With Caramelized Onion, Brussels Sprouts, Mont St. Francis, Sweet Potato Pomme Frites
Wine Pairing: Côtes du Rhône
Capriole, Inc. is a producer of artisan goat cheeses located in Greenville, Indiana. Capriole offers a line of fresh, ripened and aged cheeses made the farmstead way-by hand using only the milk from the farm’s own herd. Coveted favorites among regional farmers’ markets and gourmet retail stores, Capriole cheeses have been recognized with several national awards from the American Cheese Society and have been featured in such national publications as Saveur, People Magazine and Fine Cooking. For more information, visit www.capriolegoatcheese.com.
Daveed’s is located at 934 Hatch St. in Cincinnati, Ohio. Chef-owner David Cook offers his guests “contemporary, eclectic” cuisine with ethnic touches and French techniques. For reservations please call (513) 721-2665. More information can be found at www.daveeds.net.
Said chef David, “It was wonderful to be able to cook with so many wonderful artisanal cheeses. I’m pleased that Judy will be here to talk with our guests that evening about how she creates her cheeses.”
The menu for the Daveed’s Capriole Wine and Cheese Dinner incorporates a variety of cheeses from this Indiana company. The menu includes:
Amuse Bouche
Truffle Petite Soup with Chevre
Wine Pairing: Gruet Sparkling, New Mexico
Baby Arugula with Chantal, Olives, Garlic, Olive Oil, Grilled Bread
Wine Pairing: Vernacchia
Roasted Root Vegetables with Sofia Goat Cheese, Medjool Date Puree
and Rosemary Tuile
Wine Pairing: Martin Codax Albarino
Kentucky Tomme “Fonduta” with Apple Bourbon Shooter,
Wild Mushroom Bread Crisp
Wine Pairing: Burgundy
Prime NY Strip Slices
With Caramelized Onion, Brussels Sprouts, Mont St. Francis, Sweet Potato Pomme Frites
Wine Pairing: Côtes du Rhône
Capriole, Inc. is a producer of artisan goat cheeses located in Greenville, Indiana. Capriole offers a line of fresh, ripened and aged cheeses made the farmstead way-by hand using only the milk from the farm’s own herd. Coveted favorites among regional farmers’ markets and gourmet retail stores, Capriole cheeses have been recognized with several national awards from the American Cheese Society and have been featured in such national publications as Saveur, People Magazine and Fine Cooking. For more information, visit www.capriolegoatcheese.com.
Daveed’s is located at 934 Hatch St. in Cincinnati, Ohio. Chef-owner David Cook offers his guests “contemporary, eclectic” cuisine with ethnic touches and French techniques. For reservations please call (513) 721-2665. More information can be found at www.daveeds.net.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Bluegrass Ball and Bourbon Trail
The Kentucky Distillers' Association announced today that the Bluegrass Ball will showcase the Commonwealth's signature bourbon industry at a "Walk Along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail" reception as part of the prestigious inaugural event.
The Kentucky Bluegrass Ball is the first of the black-tie celebrations for the Presidential Inauguration and historically sets the standard for the 2009 inaugural ball season. It was named an "Editor's Pick" by the Washington Post in 2005.
"Bourbon is America's official native spirit and it's uniquely Kentucky," said KDA President Eric Gregory. "Bourbon’s heritage and legacy is deep-rooted in the history of the United States, so it's an honor to be featured as part of this extraordinary event."
Seven of Kentucky's landmark distillers will feature their premium bourbons: Beam Global Spirits and Wine, Brown-Forman's Woodford Reserve Distillery, Buffalo Trace Distillery, Bulleit Bourbon, Four Roses Bourbon, Maker's Mark Distillery and Wild Turkey Bourbon.
Kentucky produces more than 95 percent of the world's bourbon, following a time-honored tradition that dates back 200 years. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail links eight distilleries and is one of the Commonwealth's most famous and fastest-growing tourism attractions.
The Bluegrass Ball, sponsored by the Kentucky Society of Washington, will start at 6 p.m. on Monday, January 19, 2009, at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel in Washington D.C.
The evening’s Kentucky inspired menu was designed by renowned Louisville Chef Michael Paley of Proof on Main, who will be the guest chef at the event. The menu will feature items made with Kentucky bourbon, as well Kentucky bison, cheeses and Ale-8-One.
Flowers will be provided by the University of Kentucky. Churchill Downs' bugler will sound the call to dinner. Other Kentucky entertainment will be provided and hosted by Kentucky celebrities.
Guests will receive gift bags of Kentucky souvenirs and products, including a special Kentucky Bourbon Trail rocks glass to commemorate the event.
Over 1,400 people are expected to attend, with more than 75 percent of the guests coming from Kentucky. Attending dignitaries will include the Kentucky Governor and the entire Kentucky congressional delegation, according to the Kentucky Society.
The Kentucky Society of Washington, a not-for-profit organization, was founded in 1912 with a purpose to promote goodwill, fellowship and amicable relations among Kentuckians in the nation’s Capital region.
It is one of the oldest state societies in the nation’s capital and one of the four largest state societies in Washington with 400 current members, both resident and non-resident.
The first Bluegrass Ball was held in 1949, when Vice-President Alben W. Barkley was honored by the Society.
The public may obtain information on the event from Anne-Marie Kelley, Chair of the Bluegrass Ball at 202-399-2032 or inauguralballchair@kentuckysociety.org
Sponsorship information can be obtained from Brandon Kirkham, President of the Kentucky Society, at president@kentuckysociety.org
Contact KDA President Eric Gregory for information about Kentucky bourbon or the Kentucky Bourbon Trail at eric@kybourbon.com, or (502) 875-9351
The Kentucky Bluegrass Ball is the first of the black-tie celebrations for the Presidential Inauguration and historically sets the standard for the 2009 inaugural ball season. It was named an "Editor's Pick" by the Washington Post in 2005.
"Bourbon is America's official native spirit and it's uniquely Kentucky," said KDA President Eric Gregory. "Bourbon’s heritage and legacy is deep-rooted in the history of the United States, so it's an honor to be featured as part of this extraordinary event."
Seven of Kentucky's landmark distillers will feature their premium bourbons: Beam Global Spirits and Wine, Brown-Forman's Woodford Reserve Distillery, Buffalo Trace Distillery, Bulleit Bourbon, Four Roses Bourbon, Maker's Mark Distillery and Wild Turkey Bourbon.
Kentucky produces more than 95 percent of the world's bourbon, following a time-honored tradition that dates back 200 years. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail links eight distilleries and is one of the Commonwealth's most famous and fastest-growing tourism attractions.
The Bluegrass Ball, sponsored by the Kentucky Society of Washington, will start at 6 p.m. on Monday, January 19, 2009, at the Marriott Wardman Park Hotel in Washington D.C.
The evening’s Kentucky inspired menu was designed by renowned Louisville Chef Michael Paley of Proof on Main, who will be the guest chef at the event. The menu will feature items made with Kentucky bourbon, as well Kentucky bison, cheeses and Ale-8-One.
Flowers will be provided by the University of Kentucky. Churchill Downs' bugler will sound the call to dinner. Other Kentucky entertainment will be provided and hosted by Kentucky celebrities.
Guests will receive gift bags of Kentucky souvenirs and products, including a special Kentucky Bourbon Trail rocks glass to commemorate the event.
Over 1,400 people are expected to attend, with more than 75 percent of the guests coming from Kentucky. Attending dignitaries will include the Kentucky Governor and the entire Kentucky congressional delegation, according to the Kentucky Society.
The Kentucky Society of Washington, a not-for-profit organization, was founded in 1912 with a purpose to promote goodwill, fellowship and amicable relations among Kentuckians in the nation’s Capital region.
It is one of the oldest state societies in the nation’s capital and one of the four largest state societies in Washington with 400 current members, both resident and non-resident.
The first Bluegrass Ball was held in 1949, when Vice-President Alben W. Barkley was honored by the Society.
The public may obtain information on the event from Anne-Marie Kelley, Chair of the Bluegrass Ball at 202-399-2032 or inauguralballchair@kentuckysociety.org
Sponsorship information can be obtained from Brandon Kirkham, President of the Kentucky Society, at president@kentuckysociety.org
Contact KDA President Eric Gregory for information about Kentucky bourbon or the Kentucky Bourbon Trail at eric@kybourbon.com, or (502) 875-9351
National Chicken Council Showcases McDonald's
The National Chicken Council (NCC)
gives consumers a glimpse of how successful recipes are developed at
McDonald's in a new section of its consumer-oriented web site,
EatChicken.com. The National Chicken Council represents America's chicken
producers and spotlights a different restaurant group each quarter, looking
for operators that create new and innovative uses of chicken for their
menus.
The result is a window into the complex world of creating recipes that satisfy
a broad audience while offering a unique, strong appeal. George Watts,
National Chicken Council president says, "We are proud to have McDonald's
as our next Showcase of Chicken partner. McDonald's continues to come up
with new chicken menu items that meet today's consumer demand for health,
convenience and bold flavor."
McDonald's chicken innovations date back to 1983 when they first introduced
the McNugget. The Showcase features an homage to the McNugget and its
25th anniversary celebration. Over the years, McDonald's has added a variety
of chicken items including Chicken Selects®, Premium Chicken Sandwiches®,
Premium Salads and Snack Wraps™.
Perhaps McDonald's boldest chicken innovation was launched just earlier this
year, with its first-ever, chicken-for-breakfast offering. "Since its
introduction in May, the Southern Style Chicken Biscuit has been a huge
success for McDonald's," said Neil Golden, senior vice president and chief
marketing officer for McDonald's USA, LLC. "Our customers are clearly
embracing the concept of chicken-for-breakfast."
The Showcase also includes an interview with McDonald's Executive Chef and
Director of Culinary Innovation, Dan Coudreaut and Director of U.S. Menu
Management Tracy Stockard. They give insights into the process McDonald's
goes through to bring new recipes to consumers. Stockard says that
MacDonald's explores over 1500 new recipe concepts each year as part of
their constant development and testing process. Coudreaut says, "Currently
we are seeing a lot of adventurous palates and bold flavors." He cites
the "Zesty flavors of the Premium Southwest Salad," and the "Worldly
ingredients of the Premium Asian Salad," as two of McDonald's answers to
this trend.
Beyond the Showcase of Chicken, EatChicken.com features hundreds of
recipes, nutritional information, dietary news, and advice on the safe handling
of chicken products.
About The National Chicken Council
The National Chicken Council is the trade association based in Washington,
D.C., for the broiler chicken production, processing and marketing industry.
The association represents companies with approximately 95 percent of
chicken production in the United States.
About McDonald's
McDonald's USA, LLC is the leading foodservice provider in the United States
serving a variety of wholesome foods made from quality ingredients to millions
of customers every day. More than 80 percent of McDonald's 13,700 U.S.
restaurants are independently owned and operated by local franchisees. For
more information about McDonald's visit www.mcdonalds.com.
gives consumers a glimpse of how successful recipes are developed at
McDonald's in a new section of its consumer-oriented web site,
EatChicken.com. The National Chicken Council represents America's chicken
producers and spotlights a different restaurant group each quarter, looking
for operators that create new and innovative uses of chicken for their
menus.
The result is a window into the complex world of creating recipes that satisfy
a broad audience while offering a unique, strong appeal. George Watts,
National Chicken Council president says, "We are proud to have McDonald's
as our next Showcase of Chicken partner. McDonald's continues to come up
with new chicken menu items that meet today's consumer demand for health,
convenience and bold flavor."
McDonald's chicken innovations date back to 1983 when they first introduced
the McNugget. The Showcase features an homage to the McNugget and its
25th anniversary celebration. Over the years, McDonald's has added a variety
of chicken items including Chicken Selects®, Premium Chicken Sandwiches®,
Premium Salads and Snack Wraps™.
Perhaps McDonald's boldest chicken innovation was launched just earlier this
year, with its first-ever, chicken-for-breakfast offering. "Since its
introduction in May, the Southern Style Chicken Biscuit has been a huge
success for McDonald's," said Neil Golden, senior vice president and chief
marketing officer for McDonald's USA, LLC. "Our customers are clearly
embracing the concept of chicken-for-breakfast."
The Showcase also includes an interview with McDonald's Executive Chef and
Director of Culinary Innovation, Dan Coudreaut and Director of U.S. Menu
Management Tracy Stockard. They give insights into the process McDonald's
goes through to bring new recipes to consumers. Stockard says that
MacDonald's explores over 1500 new recipe concepts each year as part of
their constant development and testing process. Coudreaut says, "Currently
we are seeing a lot of adventurous palates and bold flavors." He cites
the "Zesty flavors of the Premium Southwest Salad," and the "Worldly
ingredients of the Premium Asian Salad," as two of McDonald's answers to
this trend.
Beyond the Showcase of Chicken, EatChicken.com features hundreds of
recipes, nutritional information, dietary news, and advice on the safe handling
of chicken products.
About The National Chicken Council
The National Chicken Council is the trade association based in Washington,
D.C., for the broiler chicken production, processing and marketing industry.
The association represents companies with approximately 95 percent of
chicken production in the United States.
About McDonald's
McDonald's USA, LLC is the leading foodservice provider in the United States
serving a variety of wholesome foods made from quality ingredients to millions
of customers every day. More than 80 percent of McDonald's 13,700 U.S.
restaurants are independently owned and operated by local franchisees. For
more information about McDonald's visit www.mcdonalds.com.
Friday, December 19, 2008
nuun - or "Only in New York"
The New York Times has reported that New York’s Governor David Paterson is proposing a 18% sales tax on regular soft drinks in order to reduce obesity across the state where nearly one in four of young people under the age of 18 are obese. If adopted, this tax could save the health service US $539m annually by 2010-2011 by reducing obesity and the incidents of diabetes and heart disease that go along with it.
nuun, a portable electrolyte replacement drink without sugar and with fewer than 5 calories, is emerging as a healthy alternative to soft drinks, especially now that the fiscal, health and environmental consequences of soft drink consumption are being brought to the nation’s attention.
“While it gets the headlines, taxing soft drinks is only one option. Awareness of alternatives let’s people choose – there are great low calorie options out there right now, but the marketing dollars of the major companies can often hide them. We’ve been making a name with athletes for several years and as people understand the negatives of too many calories, they’ve turned to products like ours” said Tim Moxey, CEO of nuun.
nuun contains four essential electrolytes: sodium, potassium, magnesium and calcium and is easy-to-use. Just drop a nuun tablet in a water bottle and portable hydration is ready to go. Adding nuun’s refreshing flavor to water encourages you to drink 40% more than normal. Used by cyclists, triathletes, runners, hikers, yogis and travelers around the world, as well as Team Ericsson who leads the Volvo round the world yacht race. nuun hydrates better than water alone because each sip brings a consistently balanced ratio of water to electrolytes.
A small, lightweight recyclable tube of nuun makes 1.5 gallons of electrolyte hydration. There are twelve nuun tablets per tube and one nuun tablet creates a 16oz electrolyte drink. A tube of nuun saves 12 plastic bottles into landfills. The nuun tube weighs less than 2oz. - just the right size for a jersey pocket or pack.
About nuun:
nuun & Co is based in Seattle, WA and has created a new category of tablets that turn water into electrolyte drinks without the sugars and plastic waste profile of traditional ‘sports’ drinks. Founded in 2004 and used by the worlds best professional athletes and enthusiasts everywhere, nuun is in 2,000 stores in the US and available in 9 countries.
nuun, a portable electrolyte replacement drink without sugar and with fewer than 5 calories, is emerging as a healthy alternative to soft drinks, especially now that the fiscal, health and environmental consequences of soft drink consumption are being brought to the nation’s attention.
“While it gets the headlines, taxing soft drinks is only one option. Awareness of alternatives let’s people choose – there are great low calorie options out there right now, but the marketing dollars of the major companies can often hide them. We’ve been making a name with athletes for several years and as people understand the negatives of too many calories, they’ve turned to products like ours” said Tim Moxey, CEO of nuun.
nuun contains four essential electrolytes: sodium, potassium, magnesium and calcium and is easy-to-use. Just drop a nuun tablet in a water bottle and portable hydration is ready to go. Adding nuun’s refreshing flavor to water encourages you to drink 40% more than normal. Used by cyclists, triathletes, runners, hikers, yogis and travelers around the world, as well as Team Ericsson who leads the Volvo round the world yacht race. nuun hydrates better than water alone because each sip brings a consistently balanced ratio of water to electrolytes.
A small, lightweight recyclable tube of nuun makes 1.5 gallons of electrolyte hydration. There are twelve nuun tablets per tube and one nuun tablet creates a 16oz electrolyte drink. A tube of nuun saves 12 plastic bottles into landfills. The nuun tube weighs less than 2oz. - just the right size for a jersey pocket or pack.
About nuun:
nuun & Co is based in Seattle, WA and has created a new category of tablets that turn water into electrolyte drinks without the sugars and plastic waste profile of traditional ‘sports’ drinks. Founded in 2004 and used by the worlds best professional athletes and enthusiasts everywhere, nuun is in 2,000 stores in the US and available in 9 countries.
Healthy Holiday Cocktails
Since it’s the sugary mixers and not the alcohol that make cocktails a diet disaster, these healthy holiday recipes will definitely please the health-conscious drinkers. All are made with healthy ingredients including different flavors of HINT Essence Water, a naturally-flavored water with 0 carbs, 0 sugars, 0 calories and 0 artificial flavors.
“Hint of Mint”
Mint, a good source of vitamins A and C, and a great reliever of stomach discomfort, is the base of this drink.
Ingredients:
¼ cup of ice
3 whole mint leaves
1 lime wedge
2 ounces of vodka
4 ounces Peppermint HINT Essence Water
Instructions: Fill cocktail shaker with ice, add vodka and Peppermint HINT Essence Water, shake for 10 seconds, and pour into glass. Garnish with mint leaves and lime wedge.
Nutrition Content: 130 calories, 0g carbohydrates
“Pom-Pom”
Pomegranate juice is a great source of antioxidants and contains high amounts of Potassium, which helps lower blood pressure.
Ingredients:
¼ cup ice
2 ounces vodka
2 ounces Pomegranate Tangerine POM
3 ounces Pomegranate Tangerine HINT Essence Water
Instructions: Fill cocktail shaker with ice, add vodka, HINT Water, and POM Juice, shake for ten seconds, pour into a glass and serve.
Nutrition content: 165 calories, 8 g carbohydrates
“Raspberry-Lime Hintini”
This refreshing drink has only one gram of carbs but tons of flavor!
Ingredients:
¼ cup ice
2 ounces raspberry vodka
3 ounces Raspberry Lime HINT Essence Water
¼ slice of lime
1 fresh raspberry
Instructions: Fill cocktail shaker with ice, add vodka and HINT Water, shake for ten seconds, pour into glass, drop in raspberry and garnish with lime.
Nutrition Content: 120 calories, 1 g carbohydrates
“Hint of Mint”
Mint, a good source of vitamins A and C, and a great reliever of stomach discomfort, is the base of this drink.
Ingredients:
¼ cup of ice
3 whole mint leaves
1 lime wedge
2 ounces of vodka
4 ounces Peppermint HINT Essence Water
Instructions: Fill cocktail shaker with ice, add vodka and Peppermint HINT Essence Water, shake for 10 seconds, and pour into glass. Garnish with mint leaves and lime wedge.
Nutrition Content: 130 calories, 0g carbohydrates
“Pom-Pom”
Pomegranate juice is a great source of antioxidants and contains high amounts of Potassium, which helps lower blood pressure.
Ingredients:
¼ cup ice
2 ounces vodka
2 ounces Pomegranate Tangerine POM
3 ounces Pomegranate Tangerine HINT Essence Water
Instructions: Fill cocktail shaker with ice, add vodka, HINT Water, and POM Juice, shake for ten seconds, pour into a glass and serve.
Nutrition content: 165 calories, 8 g carbohydrates
“Raspberry-Lime Hintini”
This refreshing drink has only one gram of carbs but tons of flavor!
Ingredients:
¼ cup ice
2 ounces raspberry vodka
3 ounces Raspberry Lime HINT Essence Water
¼ slice of lime
1 fresh raspberry
Instructions: Fill cocktail shaker with ice, add vodka and HINT Water, shake for ten seconds, pour into glass, drop in raspberry and garnish with lime.
Nutrition Content: 120 calories, 1 g carbohydrates
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Organic Agave Nectar & Other Natural Sweeteners are Finding Sweet Success
It wasn’t long ago that high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) and artificial low-calorie sweeteners were riding a wave of popularity, especially with the food and drink manufacturers whom found them to be convenient to transport, easy to process and inexpensive. Consumers didn’t really know any better, and as long as something tasted sweet, was “low calorie” and cheap they were happy. Now, for many reasons including health concerns associated with those sweeteners, the landscape is rapidly shifting toward natural alternative sweeteners. Agave, yacon, palm sugar, brown rice syrup and maple syrup are some of the hot alternative sweeteners that offer unique gourmet flavor profiles, potential health benefits, as well as fair trade and organic status.
The diabetes epidemic in North America has created a robust market for sweeteners that score low on the Glycemic Index (GI). One in five Americans is at high risk of developing diabetes. According to a recent report by Packaged Facts, sales of low-GI foods could reach $1.8 billion by 2011. Many of the new natural sweeteners that are experiencing rapid growth have a low GI.
Agave nectar is one of the most popular new natural sweeteners in the marketplace, both as a stand alone product, as well as a sweetener ingredient in a wide variety of foods and drinks. There were at least 176 new products with agave launched in 2007, compared to 56 in 2003, according to DataMonitor’s ProductScan online. Agave has several positive attributes that appeal to a variety of consumer types: it is comprised of simple sugars that are easy to digest and has a low glycemic index (a GI of 32); provides a sweet mild flavor and consistent smooth texture; has a solid reputation as a natural and organic product that is sustainably harvested; pours evenly and dissolves easily into foods without dominating the flavor of the recipe; and it is economical because it has approximately 1.4 times the sweetening power of white sugar –so less is needed.
The food science “magic” of agave nectar is that it is comprised primarily of fructose. Therefore, it is sweeter to the taste buds – yet it does not adversely impact blood glucose and insulin. So, while it is a delightful sweetener for everyone, it is ideal for the millions of diabetics in America and parents of hyperactive children that have concerns regarding the glycemic levels in their food. An example of a hot new packaged consumer product that is sweetened with agave is Wholemato Organic Agave Ketchup (www.wholemato.com). “Our ketchup is a fresh gourmet version of an old classic and one of its key selling points is that it has been certified as Low-Glycemic for Diabetics by the Glycemic Research Institute, due to its remarkable low score on the glycemic index of only 7 per tablespoon,” says Wholemato President and founder Jason Kessler. “People are really starting to connect agave with healthy and delicious, and they are checking product labels for it,” he adds.
Agave producers are experiencing rapid sales growth. At Madhava, sales of agave nectar doubled from 2006 to 2007. Some of the other popular food and drink brands that are using agave as a sweetener include Rudi’s Bread, Earth Balance, Stash Tea, RawRevolution Bars, Robert Rothchild Blackberry Spread, Vida Tea, and Amazing Grass Whole Food Energy Bars. For more information about agave, please visit www.madhavasagave.com and www.wholemato.com.
The diabetes epidemic in North America has created a robust market for sweeteners that score low on the Glycemic Index (GI). One in five Americans is at high risk of developing diabetes. According to a recent report by Packaged Facts, sales of low-GI foods could reach $1.8 billion by 2011. Many of the new natural sweeteners that are experiencing rapid growth have a low GI.
Agave nectar is one of the most popular new natural sweeteners in the marketplace, both as a stand alone product, as well as a sweetener ingredient in a wide variety of foods and drinks. There were at least 176 new products with agave launched in 2007, compared to 56 in 2003, according to DataMonitor’s ProductScan online. Agave has several positive attributes that appeal to a variety of consumer types: it is comprised of simple sugars that are easy to digest and has a low glycemic index (a GI of 32); provides a sweet mild flavor and consistent smooth texture; has a solid reputation as a natural and organic product that is sustainably harvested; pours evenly and dissolves easily into foods without dominating the flavor of the recipe; and it is economical because it has approximately 1.4 times the sweetening power of white sugar –so less is needed.
The food science “magic” of agave nectar is that it is comprised primarily of fructose. Therefore, it is sweeter to the taste buds – yet it does not adversely impact blood glucose and insulin. So, while it is a delightful sweetener for everyone, it is ideal for the millions of diabetics in America and parents of hyperactive children that have concerns regarding the glycemic levels in their food. An example of a hot new packaged consumer product that is sweetened with agave is Wholemato Organic Agave Ketchup (www.wholemato.com). “Our ketchup is a fresh gourmet version of an old classic and one of its key selling points is that it has been certified as Low-Glycemic for Diabetics by the Glycemic Research Institute, due to its remarkable low score on the glycemic index of only 7 per tablespoon,” says Wholemato President and founder Jason Kessler. “People are really starting to connect agave with healthy and delicious, and they are checking product labels for it,” he adds.
Agave producers are experiencing rapid sales growth. At Madhava, sales of agave nectar doubled from 2006 to 2007. Some of the other popular food and drink brands that are using agave as a sweetener include Rudi’s Bread, Earth Balance, Stash Tea, RawRevolution Bars, Robert Rothchild Blackberry Spread, Vida Tea, and Amazing Grass Whole Food Energy Bars. For more information about agave, please visit www.madhavasagave.com and www.wholemato.com.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Amazing Grass Introduces New Organic Berry Green SuperFood Drink Powder
By offering the antioxidant equivalent of 7 servings of fruits and vegetables, the new Berry Green SuperFood drink powder from Amazing Grass provides health-conscious consumers with a delicious and convenient means to achieve the recommended 5 to 9 daily servings of fruits and vegetables. Berry Green SuperFood unites a full spectrum of alkalizing green SuperFoods, antioxidant-rich fruits including acai and goji berries, support herbs, and Maca to provide a powerful dose of whole food nutrition. This powdered SuperFood drink mix has a robust berry flavor and is gluten-free, soy-free, vegan, low in calories and fat, and has no added sugar.
Berry Green SuperFood is a complete raw food powder that has a high concentration of naturally-occurring enzymes, carotenoids, phytonutrients and antioxidants that work synergistically to fight free radicals, remove toxins and repair damaged cells. Ultimately, this Amazing Grass product contains every amino acid, vitamin, and mineral necessary to sustain human life. Since the human body is designed to obtain nutrition from whole foods, the body is able to efficiently and rapidly absorb the nutrients in Berry Green SuperFood and quickly convert them into fuel.
For the majority of people, stress and consumption of unhealthy processed foods can create an acidic imbalance in the blood that, among other problems, can cause the body to store water and build up fat in the arteries (cholesterol) as protection from acidic blood. The rich chlorophyll content and high alkalinity of the Berry Green SuperFood helps to combat acidity and restore blood to the optimal pH level. It is also known to promote improved circulation, digestion and regular elimination.
Berry Green SuperFood features powerful antioxidants including those derived from organic acai, a purple berry sustainably sourced in the Amazon Rainforest by acai industry leader Sambazon (www.sambazon.com). Acai is also a great source of healthy omega fats, fiber and protein. Maca is a nutritious root grown at high altitudes in Peru. It is known to offer adaptogen-like properties that boost the immune and adrenal systems, and maca provides sustained energy, vitality and mental clarity. The Goji berry is a superfruit that has been celebrated in Chinese culture for thousands of years due to its robust flavor and ability to enhance well-being. The Goji is a nutritional powerhouse that provides 18 amino acids, abundant antioxidants and 21 vitamins and minerals.
The Berry Green SuperFood drink powder contains over 70% organic ingredients and provides more organic whole leaf greens per gram than any other green SuperFood brand. All natural and organic ingredients include organic wheat grass, organic barley grass, organic alfalfa, organic spirulina, organic spinach, organic chlorella, organic broccoli, organic acai from Sambazon, organic maca, organic carrot, organic beet, raspberry, organic rose hips, pineapple, organic goji berries, green tea, acerola cherry, organic flax seed powder, apple pectin fiber, F.O.S. (from chicory root), L.acidophilus, alpha and beta amylase, protease, lipase, lactase, cellulase, siberian eleuthero root, peppermint and other natural flavors. Unlike other green drink mixes, Berry Green SuperFood does not contain soy lecithin fillers, and it is nitrogen-packed for freshness.
Berry Green SuperFood is sold in an 8.5 ounce canister that includes 30 eight-gram servings (scoop provided) and a 15-count box of individual serving packets. Amazing Grass recommends that customers enjoy 1 to 3 servings a day by mixing 1 scoop with 6 or more ounces of water, juice or smoothie. It can be taken first thing in the morning to jump-start the day and whenever hunger occurs. Amazing Grass products are widely available at stores around the country and at www.AmazingGrass.com. The company’s popular GrassHeads program offers auto shipping along with discounts and other cool swag.
Amazing Grass’ mission is to educate the world about the benefits of green SuperFoods and the improved quality of lifederived from healthy eating habits. In addition to the new Berry Green SuperFood, Amazing Grass also offers Green SuperFood, Chocolate Green SuperFood and Kidz SuperFood Chocolate Drink Powders, and Organic Wheat Grass in drink powder and tablet forms. The nutrition convenience pioneer also recently expanded its line to include organic Whole Food Energy Bars.
Amazing Grass is a friends-and family-owned company with roots that date back over 60 years of growing and dehydrating green foods. The company produces certified organic wheat grass, barley grass, oat grass, rye grass and alfalfa at a family farm in Kansas, and markets the most nutritious, convenient and affordable green SuperFoods to help families thrive.
Amazing Grass stands out because the grasses are field-grown throughout the winter allowing the roots to soak up nutrients from mineral-rich soil for over 6 months. “The young leaves are harvested just one time each year at their nutritional peak,” says President Brandon Bert. "The greens are carefully flash dehydrated at low temperatures, frozen as whole leaf powders and then packed in nitrogen to maintain freshness. The extra steps ensure customers get the most nutrient-dense raw green food powders in the world," adds Bert.
Berry Green SuperFood is a complete raw food powder that has a high concentration of naturally-occurring enzymes, carotenoids, phytonutrients and antioxidants that work synergistically to fight free radicals, remove toxins and repair damaged cells. Ultimately, this Amazing Grass product contains every amino acid, vitamin, and mineral necessary to sustain human life. Since the human body is designed to obtain nutrition from whole foods, the body is able to efficiently and rapidly absorb the nutrients in Berry Green SuperFood and quickly convert them into fuel.
For the majority of people, stress and consumption of unhealthy processed foods can create an acidic imbalance in the blood that, among other problems, can cause the body to store water and build up fat in the arteries (cholesterol) as protection from acidic blood. The rich chlorophyll content and high alkalinity of the Berry Green SuperFood helps to combat acidity and restore blood to the optimal pH level. It is also known to promote improved circulation, digestion and regular elimination.
Berry Green SuperFood features powerful antioxidants including those derived from organic acai, a purple berry sustainably sourced in the Amazon Rainforest by acai industry leader Sambazon (www.sambazon.com). Acai is also a great source of healthy omega fats, fiber and protein. Maca is a nutritious root grown at high altitudes in Peru. It is known to offer adaptogen-like properties that boost the immune and adrenal systems, and maca provides sustained energy, vitality and mental clarity. The Goji berry is a superfruit that has been celebrated in Chinese culture for thousands of years due to its robust flavor and ability to enhance well-being. The Goji is a nutritional powerhouse that provides 18 amino acids, abundant antioxidants and 21 vitamins and minerals.
The Berry Green SuperFood drink powder contains over 70% organic ingredients and provides more organic whole leaf greens per gram than any other green SuperFood brand. All natural and organic ingredients include organic wheat grass, organic barley grass, organic alfalfa, organic spirulina, organic spinach, organic chlorella, organic broccoli, organic acai from Sambazon, organic maca, organic carrot, organic beet, raspberry, organic rose hips, pineapple, organic goji berries, green tea, acerola cherry, organic flax seed powder, apple pectin fiber, F.O.S. (from chicory root), L.acidophilus, alpha and beta amylase, protease, lipase, lactase, cellulase, siberian eleuthero root, peppermint and other natural flavors. Unlike other green drink mixes, Berry Green SuperFood does not contain soy lecithin fillers, and it is nitrogen-packed for freshness.
Berry Green SuperFood is sold in an 8.5 ounce canister that includes 30 eight-gram servings (scoop provided) and a 15-count box of individual serving packets. Amazing Grass recommends that customers enjoy 1 to 3 servings a day by mixing 1 scoop with 6 or more ounces of water, juice or smoothie. It can be taken first thing in the morning to jump-start the day and whenever hunger occurs. Amazing Grass products are widely available at stores around the country and at www.AmazingGrass.com. The company’s popular GrassHeads program offers auto shipping along with discounts and other cool swag.
Amazing Grass’ mission is to educate the world about the benefits of green SuperFoods and the improved quality of lifederived from healthy eating habits. In addition to the new Berry Green SuperFood, Amazing Grass also offers Green SuperFood, Chocolate Green SuperFood and Kidz SuperFood Chocolate Drink Powders, and Organic Wheat Grass in drink powder and tablet forms. The nutrition convenience pioneer also recently expanded its line to include organic Whole Food Energy Bars.
Amazing Grass is a friends-and family-owned company with roots that date back over 60 years of growing and dehydrating green foods. The company produces certified organic wheat grass, barley grass, oat grass, rye grass and alfalfa at a family farm in Kansas, and markets the most nutritious, convenient and affordable green SuperFoods to help families thrive.
Amazing Grass stands out because the grasses are field-grown throughout the winter allowing the roots to soak up nutrients from mineral-rich soil for over 6 months. “The young leaves are harvested just one time each year at their nutritional peak,” says President Brandon Bert. "The greens are carefully flash dehydrated at low temperatures, frozen as whole leaf powders and then packed in nitrogen to maintain freshness. The extra steps ensure customers get the most nutrient-dense raw green food powders in the world," adds Bert.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Top Ten Food Trends for 2009
The Food Channel® (www.foodchannel.com) has released its Top Ten Food Trends for 2009. Based on research conducted by The Food Channel in conjunction with the World Thought Bank (www.neemee.com) and the International Food Futurists™, the list identifies the significant food movements consumers, foodservice professionals and manufacturers should watch for in the coming year.
“For more than 20 years, the chefs and editors at The Food Channel have tracked emerging and mainstreaming food trends for our work developing food products, ideas and recipes for some of the world’s largest food companies,” said Kay Logsdon, editor of The Food Channel. “In our new role as consumers’ one-stop-shop for all things food, we have decided to share this insider information for the first time.”
Top Ten Food Trends for 2009
Home on the Range—Downsized economy breeds new generation of home chefs, more food-savvy than their predecessors
Foodie 2.0—Growth of virtual and non-virtual food communities
Going, Going Green—Kitchens go eco-conscious
Living La Vida Locavore—Eating locally and seasonally, both at home and in restaurants
TMI?—Is seeing the calorie count on the menu Too Much Information (TMI), or will it lead to healthier choices?
FrankenFood—The rise of bioengineering and genetically modified food; the next evolution of last year’s Functional Food trend
Food Philanthropy—Individuals and companies address world hunger
Food Insecurity—The call for tighter food controls, after the tomato and jalapeño scares of 2008
Brewing Business—Striking a balance when cost is an issue; the divide widens between the exotic and day-to-day food needs
Where in the World…—is the next flavor trend coming from? It’s all about globalization and variety
“Not surprisingly, the majority of the 2009 trends have a ‘value’ message, reflecting the downturn in the economy and how the lifestyle around food is affected,” said Logsdon. “We live this daily; food is a constant even in a bad economy. Identifying these trends will help us all do a better job of adjusting and even thriving.”
“For more than 20 years, the chefs and editors at The Food Channel have tracked emerging and mainstreaming food trends for our work developing food products, ideas and recipes for some of the world’s largest food companies,” said Kay Logsdon, editor of The Food Channel. “In our new role as consumers’ one-stop-shop for all things food, we have decided to share this insider information for the first time.”
Top Ten Food Trends for 2009
Home on the Range—Downsized economy breeds new generation of home chefs, more food-savvy than their predecessors
Foodie 2.0—Growth of virtual and non-virtual food communities
Going, Going Green—Kitchens go eco-conscious
Living La Vida Locavore—Eating locally and seasonally, both at home and in restaurants
TMI?—Is seeing the calorie count on the menu Too Much Information (TMI), or will it lead to healthier choices?
FrankenFood—The rise of bioengineering and genetically modified food; the next evolution of last year’s Functional Food trend
Food Philanthropy—Individuals and companies address world hunger
Food Insecurity—The call for tighter food controls, after the tomato and jalapeño scares of 2008
Brewing Business—Striking a balance when cost is an issue; the divide widens between the exotic and day-to-day food needs
Where in the World…—is the next flavor trend coming from? It’s all about globalization and variety
“Not surprisingly, the majority of the 2009 trends have a ‘value’ message, reflecting the downturn in the economy and how the lifestyle around food is affected,” said Logsdon. “We live this daily; food is a constant even in a bad economy. Identifying these trends will help us all do a better job of adjusting and even thriving.”
Flu Season is Tea Time: January is National Hot Tea Month
January is National Hot Tea Month and is also the height of the dreaded “cold and flu season”. The CDC estimates that there will be more than 200,000 Americans affected by the cold and flu this year, which leads to missing work, school and even social gatherings. So what can one do to avoid the cold and flu?
The CDC strongly recommends an annual flu vaccine as the best way to reduce the chances that you will get the flu. In addition, drinking hot tea may also help you stay healthy during the cold and flu season.
Published research from Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard University indicates that theanine, an ingredient found naturally in tea, supports the immune system. A cup of tea contains an average of 20-25 mg of theanine. Drinking tea throughout the day may strengthen the immune system which is something important to do during the cold and flu season.
Drinking five cups of Black Tea a day for two to four weeks boosted the body’s immune defense system by four times, according to the results of a human clinical trial. According to this study, the data suggests that drinking Black Tea boost’s the body’s natural resistance to infection.1
Tea also contains flavonoids, which are naturally occurring compounds known for their antioxidant properties. Antioxidants work to neutralize free radicals, which scientists believe damage elements in the body, such as genetic material and lipids, and contribute to many chronic diseases.
The CDC states that healthy adults have a 30% chance of contracting the flu even with an annual flu vaccination, and the vaccine may be somewhat less effective for children and the elderly. And while drinking tea may not keep you from getting sick this season, it can help your odds of staying healthy.
So why not do something good for your body while having a hot beverage…help stay healthy this cold and flu season and drink your tea every day! For more information about the role of tea in a healthy diet and lifestyle, please visit www.TeaUSA.org.
The CDC strongly recommends an annual flu vaccine as the best way to reduce the chances that you will get the flu. In addition, drinking hot tea may also help you stay healthy during the cold and flu season.
Published research from Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard University indicates that theanine, an ingredient found naturally in tea, supports the immune system. A cup of tea contains an average of 20-25 mg of theanine. Drinking tea throughout the day may strengthen the immune system which is something important to do during the cold and flu season.
Drinking five cups of Black Tea a day for two to four weeks boosted the body’s immune defense system by four times, according to the results of a human clinical trial. According to this study, the data suggests that drinking Black Tea boost’s the body’s natural resistance to infection.1
Tea also contains flavonoids, which are naturally occurring compounds known for their antioxidant properties. Antioxidants work to neutralize free radicals, which scientists believe damage elements in the body, such as genetic material and lipids, and contribute to many chronic diseases.
The CDC states that healthy adults have a 30% chance of contracting the flu even with an annual flu vaccination, and the vaccine may be somewhat less effective for children and the elderly. And while drinking tea may not keep you from getting sick this season, it can help your odds of staying healthy.
So why not do something good for your body while having a hot beverage…help stay healthy this cold and flu season and drink your tea every day! For more information about the role of tea in a healthy diet and lifestyle, please visit www.TeaUSA.org.
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