Monday, February 28, 2011

Something New

"If you are looking for a new healthy obsession,
why not try Luna & Larry's Organic Coconut Bliss.
This agave sweetened, dairy- and soy-free frozen
treat is just as creamy and satisfying as premium
ice cream, plus coconut oil has heart healthy benefits."

-Amazing Wellness Magazine Winter 2010

-Lingonberries carries a variety of yummy flavors.

Think Outside The Can

"Winter is the perfect season for a hot bowl of soup. But 92%
of the cans tested in a recent study had harmful bisphenol A, so
why not try soup in a box? Kettle Cuisine has a nice variety of
flavors that are delicious and nutritious. They have filling fiber
and protein, minimal fat, and no added sugar. They come in a microwave
bowl, (the linings are BPA free), and are ready in about 5 minutes."

-Prevention Magazine October 2010

-Pick yours up at Lingonberries Market and enjoy some comfort.

Boost Antioxidants At Any Meal

"Herbs and spices can deliver just as much disease-fighting
punch as fruits and veggies, says Cheryl Forberg, RD, author
of Positively Ageless. Here's how to add low-calorie flavor
while dramatically boosting your antioxidant intake.

Tarragon, fresh, add to scrambled eggs.
Oregano, dried, add to tomato bruschetta
or chicken breast marinated in olive oil and garlic.
Cloves, ground, add to mashed sweet potatoes or
acorn squash.
Cinnamon, ground, add to oatmeal, french toast,
or applesauce.
Thyme, fresh, add to fresh orange slices with black
pepper and olive oil.
Sage, fresh, add to GF cornbread and stuffings.
Turmeric, add to curries or salad with chickpeas
and currants."

-Prevention Magazine September 2010

Taco Time

The new Taco Time Fit Hits Menu has four gluten free items:

Baja Taco
Chicken Taco Salad Light
Southwest Chop Salad
White Chicken Chili

http://www.tacotimenw.com/BajaTaco.aspx?Variant=1

Sunday, February 27, 2011

Hail Merry

Experience the Healing Taste of Gluten-Free Macaroons

“Just because a snack is gluten-free does not make it healthy;” said Susan O’Brien, Dallas raw food chef and founder of Hail Merry® Snacks. Hail Merry® offers a line of gluten-free snack foods that are also dairy-free, vegan, raw and made with organic ingredients.

Gluten-free is the new buzz word and is projected to become a $2.6 billion industry by 2012. However, most of new gluten-free products on the market are no better for you than their wheat counterparts because, although they may contain gluten-free flours, they are still laden with processed oils, processed sugars and then baked to further oxidize the oils. When vegetable oils, such as canola, soybean, or sunflower, are exposed to high temperatures, they turn rancid and can cause free radical damage to our cells which leads to chronic disease (such as cancer) and prematurely ages the body (as with osteoarthritis). In essence these gluten-free cookies, cupcakes and baked goods are gluten-free junk foods.

Gluten-free expert and cookbook author, Dr. Claudia Pillow, believes “Hail Merry® Macaroons are unique because they are made with raw plant based oils, not processed or refined oils, and then dehydrated at 115ยบ to protect the digestive enzymes and healthy oils. Most importantly, they are delicious and satisfying. Hail Merry® self-nurturing treats contain the healing power of coconut oil in its raw state.”

* IMMUNE BOOSTING: Cold pressed coconut oil contains large amounts of Lauric Acid, known for its anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties which protect against infections like the flu and strengthen our immune system.

* ENERGIZING: Coconut oil contains Medium Chain Fats (as opposed to long chains found in animal fat), which provide fuel for the body and are not stored as fat or cholesterol.

* HEART HEALTHY: Coconut oil comes from a plant, has no cholesterol and helps reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol. It was wrongfully tainted as an artery clogging fat back in the 80’s because it contains saturated fat but not all saturated fats are bad nor have they been directly linked to heart disease.

Next time you crave a decadent gluten-free treat reach for Hail Merry® Macaroons or Miracle Tarts. Two of the Choco Macaroons contain 3 grams of dietary fiber, 130 calories, and they are made with organic shredded coconut, dark cocoa, organic coconut oil, pure maple syrup, pure vanilla and sea salt. A 3.5 ounce package with 8 macaroons retails for $4.99- comparable to a high quality organic chocolate bar.

For more information visit http://www.hailmerry.com/ or call 1-888-621-2229

Nature's Hollow Products

Lingonberries Market now carries Nature's Hollow Products.

Nature's Hollow Sugar Free Preserves are not your average
diet jam. They have 80% fewer calories than standard preserves.
If you need to eliminate sugar from your diet, try these tasty
new sugar free jam preserves with just 20 calories and 2 grams
of carbs per serving. They are made with a great tasting healthful
blend of fruit and Xylitol.

Nature's Hollow Sugar Free Ketchup is the best tasting, all
natural, low carb ketchup you have ever tasted. It's made with
Xylitol, which is a 5-carbon sugar alcohol that is ideal for
diabetics and those concerned about sugar intake. It has a very
low glycemic index, has fewer calories, and is good for your teeth.

Saturday, February 26, 2011

Sweet and Healthy

"If you are going to eat dessert, make it a disease fighter.
Rhubarb contains cancer-fighting polyphenols, and if you bake it
rather than serve it raw or stewed, it releases up to 1.5 times
as many antioxidants, according to a new study in Food Chemistry.
Try it: Cut 2 rhubarb stalks into 1" pieces. Place in a 3" baking
dish with 3/4 cup water and 2 tablespoons sugar, honey or other
sweetener. Cover with foil and bake at 350 for 1 hour. Serve chilled
with a scoop of vanilla ice cream."

Prevention Magazine July 2010

Correct A Common Fiber Flub

"Even if a food claims to be high in fiber, it may not
deliver the benefits you expect. The problem? The processed
fiber that's added to many packaged foods is finely ground.
Compared with the fiber of whole foods, it doesn't slow digestion,
lower cholesterol, or improve regularity, says the Center for
Science in the Public Interest. Best bet: Stick to natural fiber
sources like avocado, beans, bran-based GF cereals, leafy greens,
GF oats, raspberries, and whole grain GF breads to get your 25 g
a day."

-Prevention Magazine July 2010

Eena Kadeena Product Mixes

Make sure to come to our next GIG Meeting on Saturday, March 19th
from 10am-12pm at Legacy Salmon Creek Hospital, to meet Kaila and Valerie
of Eena Kadeena. They will have product samples for us to try, Snickerdoodle
Cupcakes, Chai Pancakes and Mock-zah Ball Soup, they are truly delicious!!

Save the date! See you there.

McGrath's Fish House Restaurant

Dear friends,

I had a very bad experience night before last at Mc Grath's. I ordered off the gluten free menu. Because I had had problems in the past, we were very careful to tell the waitress what I needed. Jim even asked that my meal be put on a separate slip. The waitress said that wouldn't be necessary, that it would be fine. I told her of past experiences. So, I received my meal and began eating it. On the top of my meat was an onion ring. As I was enjoying it, I was considering how strange it was that they would have GF onion rings. I said something to the waitress. She said well she was sure it was fine, but would double check. She came back and said yes, it did have wheat in it. I asked why it was put on my plate. She didn't know why. I then talked to the manager. He said they were fairly new at this. I know this is not true. They have had GF food for several years. He also said there is a notice in small print on the menu that the onion ring is not Gf. I asked why it was on my GF plate then. I also explained how dangerous this is for us and what I would suffer because of it. He didn't say much, except to say they were trying to offer choices. I said if they didn’t understand how to do the GF food they should not be doing it. I also invited him to our meetings. I am sending a letter to the corporate office, and told him so. I also said I would be passing the word. Take care!! Claudia

Friday, February 25, 2011

Munch These Memory Boosters

"Good news for adults who have trouble recalling words and
names: A diet rich in luteolin- an antioxidant in certain
vegetables and herbs- may help reduce brain drain, according to
new research by the University of Illinois. Luteolin regulates
immune cells in the brain called microglia. As we age, these
cells begin overproducing inflammatory chemicals that cause
forgetfulness, says study author Rod Johnson, PhD. Here are the
top four sources.

Green Bell Pepper (1 med) 5.9mg
Artichoke (1 med) 2.9mg
Blueberries, frozen (1C) 2.8mg
Hot Green Chili pepper (1 raw) 1.8mg"

-Prevention Magazine March 2011

Thursday, February 24, 2011

Unsafe In Any Form

"Nicotine narrows blood vessels, increases heart rate, and
raises blood pressure. Tobacco smoke contains nearly 5,000
chemicals- many of them harmful to your heart. If you've tried
to quit but failed, don't give up. Succeeding will reduce your
risk of heart disease dramatically within one year, and benefits
begin to accrue as soon as you stop."

"Did you know, although the words "heart attack" make most
people think of men, heart disease is the leading cause of death
and disability for women, whose risk increases with age."

-Naturally Preferred Magazine February 2011

Joe's Crab Shack

While it's true that we have been eating at Joe's Crab Shack
for years, we had an interesting experience there last night. We
found out that their Gluten Free fries aren't Gluten Free at all!
Even though they have many separate fryers for their food, they
use filtered oil in all of them, and sometimes the fries have to
share a bath with the fried calamari! That makes them, NOT GLUTEN
FREE, NOT SAFE and NOT VERY SMART ON THEIR PART!! My garlicky
mussels came with a very large piece of garlic bread on top!

Not only that, but the staff is not well educated on anything
related to Gluten Free or Celiac Disease. Some of them even call
Gluten, Glutton, really unbelievable. There are a few servers that
are not very attentive to your needs and are very rude about it.
It's clear they have no idea how serious Gluten Intolerance and
Celiac Disease really are. We did speak to the Manager about our
concerns and really hope that he will correct the problems. We hate
to lose one of our favorite seafood restaurants, but when it comes
to our health, we have no choice!

Traveling With Celiac

It was wonderful seeing you both today. Joanne, I would like to volunteer this email address and my phone number to those new to celiac and to those celiacs that are afraid to travel or need help when traveling. I travel about 20,000 miles per year - by car. Some things work and some don't. Isn't that the way it is with everything.

I have a different perspective on traveling than Sharon McConnell - not better, just different. With the I-Phone generation, doing searches on the fly is easier than ever.... Also, I tried the PC, PDA and it didn't work for me. I like the good old fashioned GF grocery book - I keep it in my car.

This is what I propose for the "Gluten-Free News":

Catherine Trahin, Travel
celiaccat@gmail.com
360-606-7359

Ice Chips

Check out these new Xylitol Naturally Sweetened Mints
in 8 mouthwatering flavors that are beneficial to your teeth
and are recommended for Diabetics.

Cinnamon
Juicy Wildberry
Lemon
Peppermint
Pina Colada
Spearmint
Vanilla Latte
Wintergreen

Pick them up at Lingonberries Market today!

Eena Kadeena Products

Lingonberries Market now carries Eena Kadeena Product Mixes
that are Corn Free, Dairy Free, Gluten Free and Soy Free..

"Chai" our Pancake Mix
Pancakes...exciting and delicious!

Mock-zah Ball Mix
Finally! The ultimate healthy comfort food...

Snickerdoodle Cupcake Mix
Affectionately reffered to as "snoodles"...

Come try freshly made samples of each on Saturday, 2/26/11,
11am-3pm at Lingonberries Market 6300 NE 117th Ave., Suite B-5,
Vancouver, WA
Don't miss it!

Monday, February 21, 2011

A Quick Primer on Edamame

"Eda-what? Say "edda-mom-ay," or go the easy route and call them
"soybeans." Either way, these tasty little gems are full of soy protein,
fiber, vitamin A and calcium. And they're picked before they're fully
ripe for a tender texture and a light, nutty flavor.
Shelled edamame can be added to soups or stir frys- or even mashed
with avocados for a lower fat spin on guacamole. Edamame pods are usually
boiled in salt water, then served as an appetizer. Simply pop out the beans
for a tasty treat."

-Naturally Preferred Magazine February 2011

Good News Chocovores! Benefits Arrive After Dark

"Look for dark chocolate with at least 60 percent cocoa solids,
and made with cocoa butter rather than palm or coconut oil. Read
labels and avoid hydrogenated and partially hydrogenated oils.
Dark chocolate is sensitive to temperature and humidity. Store
in a cool, dry place between 59-63 degrees F. Wrap well to protect
it from light and the aromas of other foods. Chocolate that absorbs
moisture may have a whitish "bloom" that comes from fat or sugar
crystals rising to the surface. It's fine to eat but won't look
appetizing. And though it may be foods for the gods, it's not for the
dogs- cats, birds, and other pets. Chocolate can be toxic to animals,
so keep chocolate and pets apart."

-Naturally Preferred February 2011

Sunday, February 20, 2011

Good News: It's Ok To Drink Juice!

"Lots of us have banned OJ from our diets because we think it's
not worth the calories. But it turns out that people who drink it-
and other 100-percent fruit juices- are actually more likely than
non-juice drinkers to meet their daily requirements for key nutrients
like vitamins A and C, calcium, and potassium, new research suggests.
Start with these five, pink grapefruit, orange, white grapefruit, prune,
pineapple, which score highest in 14 naturally occurring vitamins and
minerals, according to an analysis by Gail Rampersaud, RD, assistant in
nutrition research and education at the University of Florida's Institute
of Food and Agricultural Sciences."

-Health Magazine March 2011

2 New GF Products

There are 2 great new products at Lingonberries Market!

1-2-3 Gluten Free Deliriously Delicious
Devils Food Chocolate Cake Mix ---add your own sweetener
Gluten Free, Wheat Free, Dairy Free, Casein Free, Peanut Free,
Tree Nut Free, Corn Free, Sugar Free, Egg Free, Soy Free &
Potato Free. All Natural Ingredients. Yields 2 large layers

1-2-3 Gluten Free Yummy
Yellow Cake mix ---add your own sweetener
Gluten Free, Wheat Free, Dairy Free, Casein Free, Peanut Free,
Tree Nut Free, Corn Free, Sugar Free, Egg Free & Soy Free.
All Natural Ingredients. Yields 2 large layers

Saturday, February 19, 2011

February GIG Samplefest

Well it finally came and went...our first ever Food-A-Rama
Samplefest was a HUGE SUCCESS!! Hope whoever came today enjoyed
the food, met some new people and got great samples to take home
and try.

Thank you for your participation.

Thursday, February 17, 2011

Gluten Intolerance Group of SW WA Newsletter

We want to apologize for the misunderstanding in the recent newsletter. If your label says 2011, you are paid for the year. If your label says 2010, and you would like to continue to receive the newsletter, please send in your $10 newsletter fee. *If you have paid for the newsletter for 2011, please disregard this notice.

Thank you for your ongoing support.

Inka Chips

Hurry into Lingonberries Market for a brand new product.
They are Sweet Plantain Chips that are all natural, gluten
free, sodium free, have no trans fats and have a sweet little
crunch. They are nutritious and delicious!

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Improve Your Garlic Bread

"Rub toasted bread with peeled garlic cloves: You get all
the great garlic flavor without any of the bitterness. This
trick is especially wonderful with the fresh spring garlic
that's popping up in farmers' markets this time of year."

-Food Network Magazine April 2010

-Try this trick on Schar Baguettes from Lingonberries, it's
delicious!

Tame Your Onions

"Raw red onions have a harsh aftertaste, but if you soak
them in cold water for a few minutes, you can eliminate the bite.
Even better, soak the onions in red wine vinegar. It's like a
quick pickle: The vinegar brings out the onion's sweetness and
helps preserve its bright color."

-Food Network Magazine April 2010

Is There a Gluten-Free Option for Thickening Sauces and Soups?

"Chances are, most of us will need to cook a gluten-free meal
at some point: About 1 in 150 Americans are gluten-intolerant,
which means they can't digest the protein in wheat and some other
grains. Rice, soy, corn, potato, tapioca, quinoa, and buckwheat
all get the gluten-free green light. Use cornstarch as a thickener
rather than flour, but keep in mind that it has twice the power of
flour so you'll need less."

-Ellie Krieger, Food Network Magazine April 2010

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Andean Dream Cookies and Pasta

Come check out our new page. Find us by searching AndeanDream on Facebook.

We are posting information on gluten free lifestyle and you will learn more about quinoa, one the highest sources of protein in the world.

Your participation is always appreciated.

We look forward to having you as our friend.

Sincerely,

Steve Zelman
Assistant to the president
AndeanDream, LLC

Monday, February 14, 2011

Samplefest

We are only 4 days away from our Big GIG Food-A-Rama Samplefest
at Legacy Salmon Creek Hospital from 10am-12pm, rooms C-D.
Make sure to bring your family, friends and appetite.

Don't miss it!!

Curry That Fights Cancer

"Turmeric, a key ingredient in curry, packs more than just a
mouthful of flavor. Its yellow pigment, curcumin, also helps ward
off disease. Studies suggest that curcumin inhibits the growth of
cancer, particularly colon cancer cells, and may even reduce the
risks of Alzheimer's disease. Now a new study shows that it could
also help prevent and treat a type of fatty liver disease that can
lead to cirrhosis. To get some curry in a hurry, sprinkle some curry
powder on your scrambled eggs-or add it to lentil soup, roasted sweet
potatoes, or chicken salad for a dash of extra zing."

-Prevention Magazine March 2011

Pineapple

"Luscious, tart-sweet pineapple is full of nutrients as well as
flavor. In addition to supplying vitamin C, a cup contains your daily
quota of manganese, a trace mineral that promotes bone health. Though
available all year round, this tropical fruit is at its peak from March
through June. Go ahead and cut it into chunks and store in the fridge
or buy it precut for convenience-the fruit retains its nutritional punch
for up to a week."

-Prevention Magazine March 2011

A Natural Skin Soother

"Sensitive skin? Try adding flaxseed to your diet. A new study shows
that flaxseed oil-rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids-can not only reduce
skin sensitivity but also increase hydration and smoothness. Store whole
flaxseed in your fridge or freezer and sprinkle a tablespoon or two of
freshly ground seeds over salads, cereals, potatoes or yogurt daily."

-Prevention Magazine March 2011

-Pick up your flaxseed today at Lingonberries.

A New, Improved Tuna in Town

"If you're hooked on tuna salad sandwiches but worried about
mercury, catch this: Wild Planet Albacore Tuna has half the amount
of mercury of other brands. That's because Wild Planet uses only
smaller fish that have not accumulated as much in their bodies.
Wild Planet also retains 6 times the Omega-3s of other brands
because it's cooked after canning, not before. (The cans are BPA
free, so no worries there either.)"

-Prevention Magazine March 2011

-You can find it at Lingonberries Market

Sunday, February 13, 2011

Great Samples

Come on by Lingonberries Market today, they will have
samples of Laurel's Buns and King Harvest Hummus, both are
delicious! Don't miss it!

Saturday, February 12, 2011

Yes! To Cookies

A Message from Yes! To Cookies

We have received requests from Celiac support groups asking for free samples of our all natural, gluten free, carb free cookies. I would like to send out more free samples to other support groups across the country.

I have been amazed that baked products sold as gluten free are loaded with sugar and carbohydrates that digest equivalent to sugar. I'm also surprise that many people appear unaware of the extended damage that they are doing to their bodies by eating these baked foods.

Gluten intolerance is frequently an indicator of other auto-immune diseases which could be developing, such as diabetes. Maintaining healthy blood glucose levels is a wise health practice for everyone but particularly someone who is already showing signs of a compromised immune system.

Yes! To Cookies are a rare exception as a baked treat. Yes! To Cookies are the only baked food made from fiber and sweeteners that have NO impact on blood sugar, with a glycemic index and glycemic load of zero.

We want to let people with gluten intolerance know that there is a healthy, all natural snack option to help satisfy cravings without eating extremely harmful gluten free baked foods made from sugar and alternative forms of starch. Gluten free baked foods that are high in digestible carbohydrates generate dangerously high glucose levels and tax the bodies endocrine system. These foods also contribute to obesity and other inflammation problems such as heart disease.

David J. Fulton
Marketing Director & Developer
Yes! To Cookies
www.yestocookies.com
Zero Starch! Zero Sugar! Zero Gluten! All-Natural!

How Healthy is Agave Nectar?

"Agave nectar (also called agave syrup) has been gaining in
popularity as a supposedly healthful way to satisfy America's
sweet tooth. Harvested from agave (a desert plant related to
the yucca), the raw juice is processed and filtered to yield an
amber liquid. Many bottled agave nectars have no added preservatives,
sweeteners, or chemicals, and its neutral flavor sweetens without
overpowering. While it has more calories than sugar (60 calories
per tablespoon to table sugar's 45 calories), it's roughly 1.4
times sweeter, meaning you can use less. (Manufacturer's suggest
swapping 2/3 cup of agave nectar for every cup of sugar in a recipe.)
However, agave nectar is a processed food and contains fructose and
glucose like most other sweeteners, such as molasses, honey, and table
sugar. And don't believe claims that agave nectar is always a safe
choice for diabetics: It was banned by the Glycemic Research Institute,
a lab that provides FDA-recognized certification for low-glycemic foods,
after several diabetic test subjects given agave nectar suffered serious
reactions. Bottom line: Agave nectar does have some sweet advantages,
but like all sugars, it should be enjoyed sparingly."

-Bon Appetit Magazine December 2010

Quince

"The owl and the pussycat weren't the first couple to savor quince
as a romantic symbol: as far back as Roman times, lovers gave each other
the golden fruit as a pledge to be true. These days quince is more of a
kitchen darling than a courtship tool. Fans adore its exotic fragrance
and the magical way the fruit blushes from peach to rose as it cooks.
Quince does require some TLC to make it lovable. The raw fruit is sour,
so it's usually poached in a syrup, roasted with a sweetener, or simmered
until soft before using. Try poaching quince slices, a cinnamon stick,
and a split vanilla bean for 15 minutes in 2 parts water to 1 part sugar.
Then use the fruit the way you use apples or pears in pies or crisps. One
taste of this and you will find that with quince, it's love at first bite."

-Vegetarian Times Magazine November/December 2010

Nuts For Cholesterol

"This may be the first time doctors have recommended eating a
snack food to help your heart. A recent analysis published in the
Archives of Internal Medicine suggests that nuts eaten in moderation-
no more than a handful a day - can significantly reduce blood cholesterol
levels. Participants in 25 trials ate about 2.3 ounces a day of nuts such
as walnuts, almonds, cashews, pecans, pistachios, and macadamias. Results
show that "bad" LDL cholesterol levels decreased by 7.4 percent, and high
triglyceride levels (reflecting the amount of fat in the blood) dropped
by 10.2 percent.
There is one catch: nuts are nearly 80 percent fat, so daily intake
should be limited to no more than 2 or 3 ounces. The fat is mostly heart
healthy, but calories do add up. And instead of treating them simply as
a snack food, try using your daily serving in recipes, like substituting
walnuts for salad croutons or sprinkling almonds on yogurt."

-Bon Appetit Magazine December 2010

Crunch Bunch

"After fresh local berries and corn have long bid adieu, consider
munching on their freeze-dried counterparts. Freeze-drying involves
freezing fruits and veggies, then transferring them to a vacuum chamber
to remove the water content. The result? Shelf-stable, preservative-free
crispy morsels with their health-promoting components intact. With this
process, there is virtually no loss of color, flavor, or important
nutrients and antioxidants. To help keep sugar calories in check, choose
unsweetened varieties."

-Vegetarian Times Magazine January/February 2011

-Lingonberries has Sensible Foods Crunch Dried Snacks with "100% Fruit
or Vegetable and nothing else." They are delicious!

Friday, February 11, 2011

Creamy Polenta

"Use this basic recipe for toppings and variations of all kinds.
4 cups vegetable stock, chicken stock or water
1/2 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
1 cup medium-grain yellow polenta (can use Bob's Red Mill corn grits/polenta)
1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Bring the stock to a boil in a tall-sided saucepan (the polenta likes to spit
and gurgle and jump out of the pot). Add the salt, and while whisking over
medium high heat, add the polenta in a slow and steady stream. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and stir occasionally for about 30 minutes or longer, up to 1 hour. Feel free to adjust the consistency by adding more stock, water, or even milk or cream. Taste for salt and adjust, and then whisk in the olive oil. Serve hot, serves 8.

Tip: Pour leftover polenta into a small container and let it chill overnight,
uncovered. There's no need to oil the container first, as the polenta will pop
right out once it sets. Slice it about a half-inch thick and fry it in a non-stick
pan filmed with oil until the polenta is speckled brown and its edges have crisped."

-PCC Sound Consumer Magazine February 2011

Perfecting Polenta

"We need some sunny-ness in February, and polenta - warm, comforting and
bright yellow - offers just that . It can be light and healthy, or luxurious
and rich, and plays host to any topping you can dream up, from hot spicy chili
to ratatouille. A swirl of butter and sharp cheese hits the spot, too.
Polenta is easy to make from scratch but it's also easy to encounter lumps,
burns and difficult cleanups. Here are some tips for a creamy, smooth result:
-Polenta needs to be stirred, but not constantly. Stirring it for one full
minute for every 10 minutes (up to an hour for coarse grain polenta, 5
minutes for fine grain) is sufficient.
-Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent scorching.
-Use a ratio of fours parts water to one part polenta. This will allow it to
be creamier and less bitter than if you use a 3:1 ratio.
-Add salt to the boiling water before you add the polenta. It's much easier
to season a starch as it absorbs water rather than at the end of cooking.
-Prevent lumps by whisking the polenta as you add it to the boiling water.
Once the polenta is incorporated, turn the heat to low and whisk a few more
times in the first 10 minutes.
-For simple cleanup, fill the polenta pot overnight with cold water and any
crust should peel off the bottom the next day."

-PCC Sound Consumer Natural kitchen Magazine February 2011

Cabbage and Parsley Slaw with capers

"In a bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons red-wine vinegar and 2 tablespoons
extra-virgin olive oil; season with coarse salt and black pepper. Add a half head
green cabbage (about 1 pound), shredded, 3 tablespoons capers, rinsed,
drained, and coarsely chopped, and 1 cup packed fresh parsley leaves,
chopped; toss to combine. Serves 4"

-Everyday Food Magazine March 2010

Parsley

"Think of parsley as an ingredient, not just a garnish, and you'll
never wonder what to do with the rest of a bunch again. Parsley can be
found year-round but is especially welcome in early spring, when it's
an affordable source of fresh flavor. Parsley is available in two common
varieties: curly and flat-leaf (also know as Italian). We prefer flat-leaf
parsley because of its intense flavor and more appealing texture.
When buying, look for parsley that is vibrant green and free of wilting
or yellowing leaves. At home, remove from its plastic bag and wash well with
cold water. Dry and store the bunch, loosely rolled in paper towels, in a
resealable plastic bag for up to 1 week.
Much more than a garnish, parsley adds a clean, bright flavor to a range
of dishes, such as soups, stews, sautes, dips, pastas, and salads. In general,
the leaves and the tender stems close to them are best for eating, and the
tougher stems can be used to flavor broths, soups, and stews."

-Everyday Food Magazine March 2010

Is Salt Really that Bad For You?

"Sodium actually helps maintain the right balance of fluids in your body
and aids muscle movement. But too much is unhealthy, and the
average woman gets as much as twice the daily recommendation of 2,300
milligrams - without ever lifting a salt shaker.
Blood pressure is the problem: excess sodium can lead to hypertension, which
can cause heart attack and stroke. A study in the New England Journal of
Medicine found that skipping as little as a half-teaspoon (about 1,200 milligrams) a day can cut these risks. Eating less salt might even improve bone health."

"Some salty shockers:
1 large dill pickle 1,181 milligrams
1 cup cottage cheese 819 milligrams
1 croissant 424 milligrams
1 (12-0unce can) soda 50 milligrams
1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs 2,111 milligrams
1 cup vegetable juice cocktail 653 milligrams

Yikes! Who knew these common foods packed such a sodium overload!"

-Health Magazine April 2010

New Products at Lingonberries Market

Come check out some of the NEW PRODUCTS...

COCONUT SECRET
Raw Coconut Crystals, 100% pure coconut tree sap, a versatile
sugar alternative.
Raw Coconut Nectar, low glycemic, GI of 35, nutritionally superior
to Agave syrup.

BEE RESCUED PRODUCTS, 100% natural using the BEST RAW ingredients
Eye Cream, Hand & Body Lotion, Lip Balm, Shave Gel, Toothpaste and more...

KING HARVEST HUMMUS, locally made, tasty and nutritious.
Regular, Roasted Garlic, Roasted Pepper, Spinach, Sundried Tomato

OUTSIDE THE BREADBOX
Cinnamon Crisp Crackers that are Casein free, Dairy free, Gluten free, Nut
free, Soy free, Wheat free and Delicious!

ORGRAN LASAGNE MINI SHEETS
They are Dairy free, Egg free, Gluten free, Soy free, Wheat free, Yeast free
and Vegan.

THAI & TRUE PEANUT SAUCE
Made in Oregon, is a flavorful addition to your favorite Thai dishes and also
makes a great dip for vegetables.

THINK THIN CRUNCH BARS with mixed nuts and white chocolate.
They have 10 grams of protein, 3 grams of fiber and 70% less sugar than other
fruit and nut bars.

YOGI CHIPS
Light, crunchy and satisfying with zero trans fat. Comes in Rosemary Garlic,
Sea salt & Malt Vinegar, Sweet & Sour, and Thai Curry Lime, yum!

Tuesday, February 8, 2011

Gluten-Free Grows Up

"Wheat, barley and rye help give pasta, cereal, and baked goods
their distinctive flavor and texture - but if you're gluten-sensitive,
those ingredients are off-limits. Avoiding them used to mean settling
for less-than-appealing options (leaden breads, mushy noodles, and bland
cookies). But no longer: Gluten-free products taste better than ever, and
they're easier to find, too. Here are five worth trying.
French Meadow Bakery Gluten-Free Multigrain Bread
Bionature Organic Gluten-Free Pastas
King Arthur Gluten-Free Multipurpose Flour
Glutino Gluten-Free Cheddar Crackers
Bob's Red Mill Mighty Tasty GF Hot Cereal."

-Bon Appetit Magazine

-Check out all of these Gluten-Free products and more at Lingonberries.

Bragg Herbal Seasoning

Bragg Organic Sprinkle is based on Dr. Paul C. Bragg's original
1930 blend of 24 herbs and spices. This unique blend enhances and
adds an exciting natural flavor when added to foods, meals and recipes.
It's made with 100% organic herbs and spices, is salt-free/sodium-free,
is ideal for low-sodium diets, and is Kosher and Organic certified. Pick
up all your Bragg products at Lingonberries Market today.

Eating Organic

"Organic is ideal, but hardly mandatory, so buy it when it matters
most. Choose organic when it comes to fruits and vegetables that you eat
in their entirety - grapes, spinach, strawberries - because pesticides
can accumulate on their skin. Fruits like bananas, oranges, and lemons,
on the other hand, have thicker skins that get peeled away, so opt for
conventionally grown. Either way, though, wash them well."

-Health Magazine April 2010

Halt Heartburn

"Keep tummy troubles away with these five strategies from
The University of California, Berkeley, Wellness Letter.
Chew sugarless gum, this stimulates saliva production, a
buffer against stomach acid. Try a stick after meals.
Sleep on your left side, it's been shown to reduce nighttime
heartburn.
Loosen up your tight waistbands, hose and belts create heart-
burn-causing pressure.
Try eating more frequent, smaller meals, and drink less fluid
at meals to cut down on the sheer volume of foodstuff in your stomach
at any one time.
Use gravity power by placing wood blocks under the head of your
bed to raise it six to eight inches. This helps keep stomach acid
from coming back up."

-Healthy Living Magazine Winter 2010

Sunday, February 6, 2011

The Bread Basket

"It's official, Kroger is catching on to the Gluten-Free lifestyle!
The national grocery chain now carries Udi's gluten free in the bakery
department. In addition to a full stock of GF breads, they've begun to
carry Udi's bagels and pizza crusts, as well as exclusively offering Udi's
gluten-free cookies...and the best part is, there's a Kroger almost anywhere
you go."

-Udi's Gluten Free Foods Newsletter January 2011

Cauliflower

"Cauliflower is rich in vitamin C- one cup has almost 100% of the
daily allowance. Additionally, this vegetable is a great source of
folate and fiber, which helps aid digestion and may prevent some
cancers. Cauliflower is also naturally low in calories and contains
a fair amount of protein.
Cauliflower, along with other healthy powerhouses like broccoli,
kale, and cabbage, is part of the cruciferous family and thrives in
cold winter soil. Look for creamy white, unblemished heads with tight
florets and fresh looking leaves. In season, cauliflower can also be
found with bright orange or purple florets."

-Everday Foods Magazine March 2010

A Better Brew

"Green or black tea is a great source of polyphenols,
which can help fight cancer and heart disease and boost
your metabolism. For the biggest benefit, brew your own
cup- you'd have to drink up to 20 bottled teas to get the
same amount of antioxidants (and could end up imbibing
plenty of extra sugar in the process), according to research
presented at the annual meeting of the American Chemical
Society. To make a polyphenol-rich mug, use hot (but not quite
boiling) water and don't let the tea bag steep for more than
5 minutes."

-Everyday Foods Magazine January/February 2011

Saturday, February 5, 2011

A GIG Meeting Reminder

Save the Date! February 19th from 10am-12pm for our first ever
GIG Food-A-Rama Samplefest! Bring all your family and friends, it
will be held at Legacy Salmon Creek Hospital, 2211 NE 139th St., Vancouver,
WA, 98686, rooms C-D. Hope to see you there.

Thursday, February 3, 2011

Exotic Rices

"Beyond brown, white, and wild, there's a world of exotic rices
waiting to be explored. These are worth seeking out for their good
looks, distinctive textures, and intriguing flavors- qualities that
play well in side dishes, stuffing, pilafs, and even desserts. And
they're healthful: Low-fat and gluten-free, these rices provide a
daily dose of fiber- and some pack a nice share of vitamin C, iron,
and potassium, too.

Our Top Picks:
Carolina Gold Rice
Riso Nero
Bhutanese Red Rice
Organic Jade Pearl Rice
Purple Sticky Rice"

-Bon Appetit Magazine April 2010

Get Your Goat

"With an earthy tartness that's easy to love, goat's milk
is delicious in many more ways than the familiar log of soft
chevre. Exceptional butter, yogurt, aged cheese, and even ice
cream are now available at natural food stores, specialty markets,
and some supermarkets. Here are six tempting examples.
Meyenberg Goat Milk has a surprising sweetness, use it in
bechamel sauce, custard, ice milk and more.
Cypress Grove Creamline Midnight Moon, is a Gouda style cheese
that makes a killer base for mac and cheese.
Liberte Goat Milk Butter is made in Canada from Vermont milk
that's free of growth hormones, this butter is rich and mild, with
a subtle saltiness.
Redwood Hill Farm Goat Milk Yogurt is tangy and silky. Try it
as a low-calorie alternative to creme fraiche.
Laloo's Black Mission Fig Ice Cream comes in several flavors.
This one is like eating a fig newton in ice cream form.
Fat Toad Farm Goat's Milk Caramel is a version of dulce de leche.
Sweet and addicting, it's great smeared on toast, or drizzled over
fruit or ice cream."

-Bon Appetit Magazine October 2010

Tuesday, February 1, 2011

To Sip Or Not To Sip

"While coffee can help curb inflammation when applied
topically, overindulging in caffeine may stress skin out
and aggravate such inflammation-related conditions as acne
and rosacea, cautions Glynis Ablon, M.D. She suggests
switching to decaf or sipping no more than two cups of
regular brew a day."

-Vegetarian Times Magazine January/February 2011

Lundberg Rice Cakes

"When you want a snack without the guilt, reach for a Lundberg
rice cake. Low in fat and calories, our rice cakes are made with whole
grain brown rice and packed with flavor and nutrition. Available in a
multitude of flavors. A truly healthy snack your entire family will enjoy!"

-Vegetarian Times Magazine January/February 2011

-Check out all of the flavors at Lingonberries Market.