Thursday, December 23, 2010

Lucky Foods for the New Year

Good Luck Foods for New Year's Day - Delish
Eat Yourself Lucky: Good Luck Foods for New Year's Day .... Eat well and save money with these healthy dinner recipes that are perfect for dieters.
http://www.delish.com/entertaining-ideas/holidays/new-years-eve/lucky-foods

Healthy New Year's Eve Menu : Holidays and Parties : Food Network
Ellie threads Italian sausage, roasted red peppers and basil on a skewer for a fresh, festive appetizer.
http://www.foodnetwork.com/menus/healthy-new-years-eve-menu/index.html

For many, January 1 offers an opportunity to forget the past and make a clean start. But instead of leaving everything up to fate, why not enjoy a meal to increase your good fortune? There are a variety of foods that are believed to be lucky and to improve the odds that next year will be a great one. Traditions vary from culture to culture, but there are striking similarities in what's consumed in different pockets of the world: The six major categories of auspicious foods are grapes, greens, fish, pork, legumes, and cakes. Whether you want to create a full menu of lucky foods or just supplement your meal, we have an assortment of recipes, guaranteed to make for a happy new year, or at the very least a happy belly.

Grapes
New Year's revelers in Spain consume twelve grapes at midnight—one grape for each stroke of the clock. This dates back to 1909, when grape growers in the Alicante region of Spain initiated the practice to take care of a grape surplus. The idea stuck, spreading to Portugal as well as former Spanish and Portuguese colonies such as Venezuela, Cuba, Mexico, Ecuador, and Peru. Each grape represents a different month, so if for instance the third grape is a bit sour, March might be a rocky month. For most, the goal is to swallow all the grapes before the last stroke of midnight, but Peruvians insist on taking in a 13th grape for good measure.

Cooked Greens
Cooked greens, including cabbage, collards, kale, and chard, are consumed at New Year's in different countries for a simple reason — their green leaves look like folded money, and are thus symbolic of economic fortune. The Danish eat stewed kale sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon, the Germans consume sauerkraut (cabbage) while in the southern United States, collards are the green of choice. It's widely believed that the more greens one eats the larger one's fortune next year.

Legumes
Legumes including beans, peas, and lentils are also symbolic of money. Their small, seedlike appearance resembles coins that swell when cooked so they are consumed with financial rewards in mind. In Italy, it's customary to eat cotechino con lenticchie or sausages and green lentils, just after midnight—a particularly propitious meal because pork has its own lucky associations. Germans also partner legumes and pork, usually lentil or split pea soup with sausage. In Brazil, the first meal of the New Year is usually lentil soup or lentils and rice, and in Japan, the osechi-ryori, a group of symbolic dishes eaten during the first three days of the new year, includes sweet black beans called kuro-mame.

In the Southern United States, it's traditional to eat black-eyed peas or cowpeas in a dish called hoppin' john. There are even those who believe in eating one pea for every day in the new year. This all traces back to the legend that during the Civil War, the town of Vicksburg, Mississippi, ran out of food while under attack. The residents fortunately discovered black-eyed peas and the legume was thereafter considered lucky.

Lucky Foods

Pork
The custom of eating pork on New Year's is based on the idea that pigs symbolize progress. The animal pushes forward, rooting itself in the ground before moving. Roast suckling pig is served for New Year's in Cuba, Spain, Portugal, Hungary, and Austria—Austrians are also known to decorate the table with miniature pigs made of marzipan. Different pork dishes such as pig's feet are enjoyed in Sweden while Germans feast on roast pork and sausages. Pork is also consumed in Italy and the United States, where thanks to its rich fat content, it signifies wealth and prosperity.

Fish
Fish is a very logical choice for the New Year's table. According to Mark Kurlansky, author of Cod: A Biography of the Fish that Changed the World, cod has been a popular feast food since the Middle Ages. He compares it to turkey on Thanksgiving. The reason? Long before refrigeration and modern transportation, cod could be preserved and transported allowing it to reach the Mediterranean and even as far as North Africa and the Caribbean. Kurlansky also believes the Catholic Church's policy against red meat consumption on religious holidays helped make cod, as well as other fish, commonplace at feasts. The Danish eat boiled cod, while in Italy, baccalà, or dried salt cod, is enjoyed from Christmas through New Year's. Herring, another frequently preserved fish, is consumed at midnight in Poland and Germany—Germans also enjoy carp and have been known to place a few fish scales in their wallets for good luck. The Swedish New Year feast is usually a smorgasbord with a variety of fish dishes such as seafood salad. In Japan, herring roe is consumed for fertility, shrimp for long life, and dried sardines for a good harvest (sardines were once used to fertilize rice fields).

Cakes, Etc.
Cakes and other baked goods are commonly served from Christmas to New Year's around the world, with a special emphasis placed on round or ring-shaped items. Italy has chiacchiere, which are honey-drenched balls of pasta dough fried and dusted with powdered sugar. Poland, Hungary, and the Netherlands also eat donuts, and Holland has ollie bollen, puffy, donut-like pastries filled with apples, raisins, and currants.
In certain cultures, it's customary to hide a special trinket or coin inside the cake—the recipient will be lucky in the new year. Mexico's rosca de reyes is a ring-shaped cake decorated with candied fruit and baked with one or more surprises inside. In Greece, a special round cake called vasilopita is baked with a coin hidden inside. At midnight or after the New Year's Day meal, the cake is cut, with the first piece going to St. Basil and the rest being distributed to guests in order of age. Sweden and Norway have similar rituals in which they hide a whole almond in rice pudding—whoever gets the nut is guaranteed great fortune in the new year.
Cakes aren't always round. In Scotland, where New Year's is called Hogmanay, there is a tradition called "first footing," in which the first person to enter a home after the new year determines what kind of year the residents will have. The "first footer" often brings symbolic gifts like coal to keep the house warm or baked goods such as shortbread, oat cakes, and a fruit caked called black bun, to make sure the household always has food.

What Not to Eat
In addition to the aforementioned lucky foods, there are also a few to avoid. Lobster, for instance, is a bad idea because they move backwards and could therefore lead to setbacks. Chicken is also discouraged because the bird scratches backwards, which could cause regret or dwelling on the past. Another theory warns against eating any winged fowl because good luck could fly away.
Now that you know what to eat, there's one more superstition—that is, guideline—to keep in mind. In Germany, it's customary to leave a little bit of each food on your plate past midnight to guarantee a stocked pantry in the New Year. Likewise in the Philippines, it's important to have food on the table at midnight. The conclusion? Eat as much lucky food as you can, just don't get too greedy—or the first place you'll be going in the new year is the gym.


Credit: http://www.epicurious.com/articlesguides/holidays/newyearsday/luckyfoods

Friday, December 10, 2010

Beauty benefits of Bananas

Beauty Benefits of Bananas
beauty with bananas, beauty uses of bananas, bananas for beauty ailments, treat beauty ailments with bananas, skin care with bananas, hair care with bananas
http://factoidz.com/beauty-benefits-of-bananas/

Five Benefits of Bananas « Head to Toe Beauty
16 May 2008 ... But did you know that bananas can give you a lot of benefits that you can take advantage of? Read on to know some of the great perks bananas
http://skinbeautifulblog.wordpress.com/2008/05/16/five-benefits-of-bananas/

Women usually spend enormous amount of money on costly beauty products. Being beautiful can be very easy on your pocket if you choose to use natural beauty ingredients. Bananas are my favorite fruit because they are not only packed with health benefits, but are also one of the excellent natural beauty products, for treating various beauty ailments.

Beauty uses of Bananas

Bananas are accessible at all times of the year and help a great deal to keep you healthy and beautiful. From now on never ever throw a ripe banana because it can easily be used for skin care . Read on to learn about the amazing ways of using bananas in your daily beauty routine.

Dry feet

Ripe bananas are a common household remedy to treat dry feet . Apply the pulp of ripe banana on the dry and cracked area of your feet. Leave it on for 10 minutes and then wash with warm and cold water alternatively. The results are really amazing, you will experience soft and supple feet just by one application

Acne, blemishes and pimples

Bananas are anti-bacterial in nature and are excellent in treating skin blemishes, acne and pimples. The antioxidants and vitamins in bananas restore collagen in the skin and are useful for anti-aging skin too. Make a mix by mashed bananas with a tablespoon of milk, a pinch of nutmeg, a tablespoon of oatmeal and apply it on a clean face. Wash it once it is completely dry. Regular use helps to deal with acne, blemishes and pimples to a great deal.

Dry Eyes

Eating a banana every day can be very useful, if you suffer from dry eyes. Since bananas are very rich in potassium, they help to control the balance of sodium and release of fluid in your cells, which results in preventing dry eyes. Simply eat banana a day and get rid of dry eyes.

Dandruff , frizzy and dry hair

If you have dry, frizzy hair or flaky scalp, and dandruff then banana hair mask is just for you. With regular use the banana hair mask can increase the moisture content of your hair, smooth frizz, and soothe your itchy scalp immensely. Make a mix by using 2 to 3 tablespoons of honey and 2 to 3 ripe mashed bananas. Before applying the mask wet your hair in the shower to provide moisture. Next, apply the mask over your hair making sure to massage the mix into each strand, the roots, and your scalp.

After application wrap your hair in a towel, plastic wrap, or a shower cap and allow the mix to saturate your hair for at least thirty minutes. After thirty minutes, rinse, shampoo, and condition as usual.

Hair loss

Take a ripe banana and mix it with a cup of fresh yogurt. Apply this paste on the scalp and leave it on the scalp for an hour. Then wash as usual. Do this religiously for a month and you will definitely feel decrease in hair loss and at the same time the condition and texture of your hair will improve tremendously.

Dry Skin

Bananas are rich source of Vitamin A and Potassium, and they are very good at softening and hydrating the skin. Take a ripe or over ripe banana, and mash it in a bowl. Add a spoon of granulated sugar to the banana mash. Apply this mix to your face and hands. Banana mash works as an excellent exfoliate scrub and moisturizer for buffing away dead skin. It is a very effective and cheap natural remedy.

From now on put these beauty uses of bananas to practice and I am sure that you can easily save some money and be beautiful naturally. So from today let bananas be a part of your daily diet and beauty routine. Get , set to go bananas!

info credit: http://guides.wikinut.com/Beauty-Tips:-Beauty-benefits-of-Bananas/1ykq.-is/

Wednesday, December 1, 2010

"กล้วย" อาหารที่มีคุณประโยชน์มหาศาลต่อสุขภาพ (17 Health benefits of bananas)

Health Benefits of Bananas
Bananas consist mainly of sugars (glucose, fructose and sucrose) and fiber, which makes them ideal for an immediate and slightly prolonged source of energy
http://bananasweb.com/bananas/Health+Benefits+of+Bananas

6 Awesome Health Benefits Of Bananas : The Tao of Good Health
26 Jun 2007 ... Before we start discussing the health benefits of bananas, here is some nutritional information for a serving of banana (source - these
http://thetaoofgoodhealth.com/6-awesome-health-benefits-of-bananas-9/


"กล้วย" อาหารที่มีคุณประโยชน์มหาศาลต่อสุขภาพ
(17 Health benefits of bananas)
ถ้าต้องการให้ระดับพลังงานที่หย่อนยานลงให้กลับคืนมาอย่างรวดเร็วไม่มีอาหารว่างใดดีไปกว่ากล้วย
กล้วยอุดมด้วยน้ำตาลธรรมชาติ 3 ชนิด คือ ซูโครส ฟรุคโทส และกลูโคส รวมกับเส้นใยและกากอาหาร กล้วยจะช่วยเสริมเพิ่มพลังงานให้กับร่างกายทันทีทันใด

จากงานวิจัยพบว่ากินกล้วยแค่ 2 ผล ก็สามารถเพิ่มพลังงานให้อย่างเพียงพอ กับการออกกำลังกายอย่างเต็มที่ได้นานถึง 90 นาที จึงไม่น่าแปลกใจที่กล้วยเป็นผลไม้อันดับหนึ่งของนักกีฬาชั้นนำระดับโลก ไม่ใช่เพียงแค่เพิ่มพลังงานเท่านั้นยังช่วยเอาชนะ และป้องกันโรคต่าง ๆ ที่จะเกิดกับร่างกายได้อีกหลายโรค จึงควรรับประทานทุกวัน

ประโยชน์ 17 อย่างของกล้วยได้แก่


1. โรคโลหิตจาง ในกล้วยมีธาตุเหล็กสูงจะเป็นตัวช่วยกระตุ้นการผลิตฮีโมโกลบินในเลือด และจะช่วยในกรณีที่มีสภาวะขาดกำลัง หรือภาวะโลหิตจาง

2. โรคความดันโลหิตสูง มีธาตุโปรแตสเซียมสูงสุด แต่มีปริมาณเกลือต่ำ ทำให้เป็นอาหารที่สมบูรณ์แบบที่สุดที่จะช่วยความดันโลหิตมาก อย.ของอเมริกา ยินยอมให้อุตสาหกรรมการปลูกกล้วยสามารถโฆษณาได้ว่า กล้วยเป็นผลไม้พิเศษช่วยลดอันตรายอันเกิดจากเรื่องความดันโลหิตหรือโรคเส้น เลือดฝอยแตก

3. กำลังสมอง นักเรียน 200 คน ที่โรงเรียน Twickenham ได้ รับผลดีจากการสอบตลอดปีนี้ ด้วยการรับประทานกล้วยในมื้ออาหารเช้า ตอนพัก และมื้ออาหารกลางวันทุกวัน เพื่อช่วยส่งเสริมกำลังของสมองในพวกเขา จากงานวิจัยแสดงให้เห็นว่าปริมาณโปรแตสเซียมที่มีอยู่เต็มเปี่ยมในกล้วย สามารถให้นักเรียนมีการตื่นตัวในการเรียนมากขึ้น

4. โรคท้องผูก ปริมาณเส้นใยและกากอาหารที่มีอยู่ในกล้วยช่วยให้การขับถ่ายเป็นปกติ และยังช่วยแก้ ปัญหาโรคท้องผูกโดยไม่ต้องกินยาถ่ายเลย

5. โรคความซึมเศร้า จากการสำรวจเร็ว ๆ นี้ ในจำนวนผู้ที่มีความทุกข์เกิดจากความซึมเศร้าหลายคนจะมี ความรู้สึกที่ดีขึ้นมากหลังการกินกล้วย เพราะมีโปรตีนชนิดที่เรียกว่า try potophan เมื่อสารนี้เข้าไปในร่างกายจะ ถูกเปลี่ยนเป็น serotonin เป็นที่รู้จักกันดีว่าเป็นตัวผ่อนคลายปรับปรุงอารมณ์ให้ดีขึ้นได้ คือทำให้เรารู้สึกมีความสุข เพิ่มขึ้นนั่นเอง

6. อาการเมาค้าง วิธีที่เร็วที่สุดที่จะแก้อาการเมาค้าง คือ การดื่มกล้วยปั่นกับนมและน้ำผึ้ง กล้วยจะทำให้ กระเพาะของเราสงบลง ส่วนน้ำผึ้งจะเป็นตัวช่วยหนุนเสริมปริมาณน้ำตาลในเส้นเลือดที่หมดไปในขณะที่ นมก็ช่วย ปรับระดับของเหลวในร่างกายของเรา

7. อาการเสียดท้อง กล้วยมีสารลดกรดตามธรรมชาติที่มีผลต่อร่างกายของเรา ถ้าปัญาเกี่ยวกับอาการเสียด ท้อง ลองกินกล้วยสักผล คุณจะรู้สึกผ่อนคลายจากอาการเสียดท้องได้


8. ความรู้สึกไม่สบายในตอนเช้า การกินกล้วยเป็นอาหารว่างระหว่างมื้ออาหาร จะรักษาระดับน้ำตาลใน เส้นเลือดให้คงที่ เพื่อหลีกเลี่ยงความรู้สึกไม่สบายในตอนเช้า

9. ยุงกัด ก่อนใช้ครีมทาแก้ยุงกัด ลองใช้ด้านในของเปลือกกล้วยทาบริเวณที่ถูกยุงกัด มีหลายคนพบอย่าง มหัศจรรย์ว่า เปลือกกล้วยสามารถแก้เม็ดผื่นคันที่เกิดจากยุงกัดได้

10. ระบบระสาท ในกล้วยมีวิตามินบี สูงมาก ช่วยทำให้ระบบประสาทสงบลงได้ โรคน้ำหนักเกินและโรคที่ เกิดในที่ทำงาน จากการศึกษาของสถาบันจิตวิทยาในออสเตรียค้นพบว่า ความกดดันในที่ทำงานเป็นเหตุนำไปสู่ การกินอย่างจุบจิบ เช่นอาหารพวกช็อคโกแล็ต และอาหารประเภททอดกรอบต่าง ๆ ในนจำนวนคนไข้ 5,000 คน ในโรงพยาบายต่างๆ นักวิจัยพบว่า ส่วนใหญ่เป็นโรคอ้วนมากเกินไป และส่วนใหญ่ทำงานภายใต้ความกดดันสูง มาก จากรายงานสรุปว่า เพื่อหลีกเลี่ยงการตื่นตระหนกและนำไปสู่การกินอาหารอย่างบ้าคลั่ง เราจึงต้องควบคุม ปริมาณน้ำตาลในเส้นเลือด ด้วยการกินอาหารว่างที่มีปริมาณคาร์โบโฮเดรตสูง เช่น กินกล้วยทุก 2 ชั่วโมง เพื่อรักษาปริมาณน้ำตาลให้คงที่ตลอดเวลา ไม่ต้องคำนึงถึงเรื่อยยา การกินกล้วยที่มีวิตามินบี 6 ซึ่งประกอบด้วย สารควบคุมระดับกลูโคสที่สามารถมีผลต่ออารมณ์ได้

11. โรคลำไส้เป็นแผล กล้วยเป็นอาหารที่แพทย์ใช้ควบคุม เพื่อต้านทานการเกิดโรคลำไส้เป็นแผล เพราะ เนื้อของกล้วยมีความอ่อนนิ่มพอดี เป็นผลไม้ชนิดเดียวที่ทานได้ง่าย ๆ ไม่ยุ่งยากสำหรับผู้ที่มีปัญหาเรื่องโรค ลำไส้เรื้อรัง และกล้วยยังมีสภาพเป็นกลางไม่เป็นกรด ทำให้ลดการระคายเคือง และยังไปเคลือบผนังลำไส้และ กระเพาะอาหารด้วย

12. การควบคุมอุณหภูมิของร่างกาย ในวัฒนธรรมของหลายแห่งเห็นว่ากล้วย คือผลไม้ที่สามารถทำให้ อุณหภูมิเย็นลงได้ทั้งทางร่างกายและจิตใจ โดยเฉพาะอุณหภูมิของอารมณ์ของคนที่เป็นแม่ที่ชอบคาดหวัง ตัวอย่างในประเทศไทย จะให้ผู้หญิงที่กำลังตั้งครรภ์รับประทานกล้วยทุกวันเพื่อให้แน่ใจว่า ทกรกที่เกิดมา จะมีอุณหภูมิเย็น

13. ความสับสนของอารมณ์เป็นครั้งคราว กล้วยสามารถช่วยในเรื่องของอารมณ์และความสับสนได้ เพราะในกล้วยมีสารตามธรรมชาติ try potophan ทำให้อารมณ์ดี

14. การสูบบุรี่ กล้วยสามารถช่วยคนที่กำลังพยายามเลิกสูบบุหรี่ เนื่องจากในกล้วยมีปริมาณของวิตามินซี เอ บี6 และบี 12 ที่สูงมาก และยังมีโปรแตสเซียมกับแมกนีเซียม ที่ช่วยทำให้ร่างกายฟื้นคืนตัวได้เร็วอันเป็นผล จากการลดเลิกนิโคตินนั่นเอง

15. ความเครียด โปรแตสเซียมเป็นสารอาหารสำคัญ ที่ช่วยให้การเต้นของหัวใจเป็นปกติ การส่งออกซิเจน ไปยังสมอง และปรับระดับน้ำในร่างกาย เวลาเกิดอารมณ์เครียด อัตรา metabolic ในร่างกายของเราจะ ขึ้นสูง และทำให้ระดับโปรแตสเซียมในร่างกายของเราลดลง แต่โปรแตสเซียมที่มีอยู่สูงมากในกล้วยจะช่วยให้เกิด ความสมดุล

16. เส้นเลือดฝอยแตก จากการวิจัยที่ลงในวารสาร "The New England Journal of Medicine" การกิน กล้วยเป็นประจำสามารถลดอันตรายที่เกิดกับเส้นโลหิตแตกได้ถึง 40%

17. โรคหูด การรักษาหูดด้วยวิธีทางเลือกแบบธรรมชาติ โดยการใช้เปลือกของกล้วยวางปิดลงไปบนหูด แล้วใช้แผ่นปิดแผลหรือเทปติดไว้ให้ด้านสีเหลืองของเปลือกกล้วยออกด้านนอก ก็จะสามารถรักษาโรคหูดให้ หายได้

เห็นหรือไม่ว่า กล้วยรักษาโรคต่างๆ อย่างธรรมชาติได้มากมาย ท่านควรลองพิสูจน์ด้วยตัวเองบ้าง ว่าจะได้ผลตามที่กล่าวหรือไม่ และเมื่อเปรียบเทียบแอปเปิ้ลแล้ว กล้วยมีโปรตีนมากกว่าแอปเปิ้ล 4 เท่า มี คาร์โบรไฮเดรตมากกว่า 2 เท่า มีฟอสฟอรัสมากกว่า 3 เท่า มีวิตามินเอ และธาตุเหล็กมากกว่า 5 เท่า และมี วิตามินรวมทั้งแร่ธาตุอื่น มากกว่าอีก 2 เท่า และกล้วยยังอุดมด้วยโปรแตสเซียม กล้วยจึงเป็นหนึ่งในอาหารที่ดี ที่สุด

ดังนั้นถึงเวลาแล้วหรือยังที่เคยกินแอปเปิ้ลวันละผลทุกวัน ไม่ต้องไปหาหมอ หันมาคุ้นเคยกับคำว่า "กินกล้วยวันละผล ก็ไม่ต้องไปหาหมอ" นอกจากนี้มีคนที่เคยเป็นตะคริวที่เท้า ข้อเท้า และน่อง แนะนำให้กิน กล้วยทุกวัน ตั้งแต่นั้นมาไม่เป็นตะคริวอีกเลย และหายไป

Banana's Menu:
Green Tea Banana Smoothie


credit: http://rueanthai2.lefora.com/2010/02/13/17/

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The health benefits of bananas
Not only do they taste great any place and any time, but the health benefits of bananas are of astounding!
http://www.essortment.com/all/healthbananas_rjyz.htm

WHFoods: Bananas
In addition to these cardiovascular benefits, the potassium found in bananas may also help to promote bone health. Potassium may counteract the increased ...
http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=7

10 Health Benefits of Bananas | Healthmad
18 Feb 2010 ... Maybe or maybe not, but this popular yellow fruit still offers plenty of health benefits. Ulcers: Bananas are a great food for ulcer ...
http://healthmad.com/nutrition/10-health-benefits-of-bananas/

19 Amazing Health Benefits Of Bananas | because you value your body
17 May 2007 ... Don't aim for lighter weights, but for stronger arms.
http://odyb.net/nutrients/19-amazing-health-benefits-of-bananas/

Thursday, November 25, 2010

10 Natural Foods Detox

Natural Food Detox
The Natural Food Detox Plan. Did you know your body has the natural ability to rid itself of toxins and waste? However, most of us eat far more toxins than ...
http://naturalfooddetox.com/

Detox Foods: The Top Food to Eat During the Detoxification Process
2 Dec 2006 ... This article reviews the best diet choices during a detox.
http://www.associatedcontent.com/





10 Natural Foods Detox


When it comes to detoxing your body, there are many techniques you can follow and supplements you can take. But, the best way, is to eat lots of foods that detox the body. Below is a list of detox foods that I thought would be an great addition to everybody’s diet.



1. Fruits
Fruits are extremely high in liquid-content, helping the body wash out toxins. They are also very easy to digest and are high in antioxidants, nutrients, fiber and many important vitamins like vitamin C.

2. Green Foods
When you are ready to detox your body, fill your refrigerator with blue green algae, barley, wheatgrass, kale, spinach, spirulina, alfalfa, chard, arugula or other organic leafy greens. These plants will help give a chlorophyll-boost to your digestive tract.

Chlorophyll rids the body of harmful environmental toxins from smog, heavy metals, herbicides, cleaning products and pesticides. They also aid the liver in detoxification.

3. Lemons, Oranges & Limes
These citrus-wonders aid the body in flushing out toxins, as well as jump-start the digestive tract with enzymatic processes. They also aid the liver in its cleansing processes. To increase detoxification, start each morning with a warm glass of lemon water.

Remember, vitamin C is one of the best detox vitamins around, as it transforms toxins into digestible material.

4. Garlic
This pungent bulb stimulates the liver in producing detoxification enzymes that help filter out toxic residues in the digestive system. Adding sliced or cooked garlic to any dish, will help aid any detox diet.

5. Broccoli Sprouts
Extremely high in antioxidants, broccoli sprouts can help stimulate the detoxification enzymes in the digestive tract like none-other. The sprouts are actually more effective than the fully-grown vegetable, despite the picture on the right.

6. Green Tea
Packed full of antioxidants, green tea not only washes toxins out of the system through its liquid content, but also contains a special type of antioxidant called catechins, known to increase liver function.

7. Mung Beans
The mighty mung bean has been used by Ayurvedic doctors for thousands of years. It is incredibly easy to digest, and absorbs toxic residue on the sides of the intestinal walls.

8. Raw Vegetables
Best for juicing detox regimens or eaten raw: Onions, carrots, artichoke, asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, kale, brussel sprouts, cauliflower, garlic, beet, turmeric, and oregano. The combination of these foods will help your liver purge toxins during the cleansing process. These are high in naturally occurring sulphur and glutathione. Sulphur helps the liver detoxify harmful chemicals.

9. Seeds & Nuts
Incorporate more of the easily digestible seeds and nuts into your diet. This include flaxseed, pumpkin seeds, almonds, walnuts, hemp seeds, sesame seeds, chia seeds, Siberian cedar nuts and sunflower seeds. While detoxing, avoid nut butters.

10. Omega-3 Oils
Use hemp, flax-seed, avocado or olive oils while detoxing. This will help lubricate the intestinal walls, allowing the toxins to be absorbed by the oil, and eliminated by the body.


info credit: http://www.globalhealingcenter.com/natural-health/foods-that-detox-the-body/
images credit: http://www.radiantbalance.com/Detox.htm

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Vegetarian Mushroom Soup : ซุปเห็ดเจ

Vegetarian Mushroom Soup Recipe: A Tasty Vegetarian (Or Vegan!) Mushroom Soup
31 May 2009 ... Try this tasty, non-traditional mushroom soup on a cold winter day or in the comfort of an air-conditioned home during summer.
http://www.suite101.com/content/magic-mushroom-soup-recipe-a120229

Vegan Mushroom Soup Recipes
January 13, 2007, 12:47:36 AM by recipes. *, Cream of Mushroom Soup ..... Vegan World Fusion Cuisine, ===> Vegetarian Soups for All Seasons ...
http://vegweb.com/index.php?board=425.0

Vegetarian Soup Recipes
Our favourite vegetarian soup recipes, from warming winter soups to ... Creamy Mushroom Soup is a good example of a soup that came about because the ...
http://www.vegetarian-and-low-calorie-recipes.com/vegetarian-soup-recipes.html

ซุปเห็ดเจ : Vegetarian Mushroom Soup

vegetarian-mushroom-soup

เครื่องปรุง
  • เห็ดแชมปิยองกระป๋อง ใช้แต่เนื้อเห็ด 200 กรัม
  • น้ำมันมะกอก (เจ) 50 กรัม
  • แป้งสาลี 200 กรัม
  • น้ำซุปผัก 2500 กรัม
  • ซุปผงหรือก้อนรสเห็ดหอม 200 กรัม
  • ใบกระวาน 200 กรัม
  • เต้าหู้หลอด 100 กรัม
  • เกลือป่น 200 กรัม
  • พริกไทยป่น 30 กรัม
  • เห็ดแชมปิยองหั่นบางๆ สำหรับแต่งหน้าซุป ¼ ถ้วยตวง
วิธีทำ
  1. ตั้งหม้อซุปใส่น้ำมันมะกอก ใส่แป้งสาลีผัดเร็วๆ พอเข้ากัน แล้วค่อยๆ ใส่น้ำซุปผัก ซุปผงรสเห็ดหอม คนให้แป้งละลาย
  2. ใส่เห็ดแชมปิยองลงไปครึ่งหนึ่ง และใบกระวาน เคี่ยวไฟอ่อน คอยคนไม่ให้แป้งติดก้นหม้อ พอแป้งสุกดีพักไว้ให้เย็น
  3. ปั่นเต้าหู้หลอด พร้อมด้วยส่วนผสมข้อที่ 1 เทใส่หม้อซุป ใส่เห็ดแชมปิยองหั่นเป็นแผ่นบางที่เหลือลงไป
  4. ต้มเคี่ยวจนกระทั่งซุปข้นได้ที่ ปรุงรสด้วยเกลือป่น พริกไทยป่น ก่อนเสิร์ฟแต่งด้วยเห็ดแชมปิยอง พริกไทยและเต้าหู้หลอดปั่น

Vegetarian Mushroom Soup : ซุปเห็ดเจ

Ingredients
Mushroom Soup Cube - ซุปผงหรือก้อนรสเห็ดหอมMushroom Soup Cube - ซุปผงก้อนรสเห็ดหอม

  • 200 g. Sliced Champignon Mushrooms
  • 50 g. Olive Oil (Vegetable Oil)
  • 200 g. wheat flour
  • 2500 g. Vegetable Stock
  • 200 g. Mushroom Soup Cube
  • 200 g. Bay leaf
  • 100 g. Soft Tofu
  • 200 g. Granulated Salt
  • 30 g. Pepper Powder
  • ¼ cup of Sliced Champignon Mushrooms (for decoration on the top of soup)

Directions
  1. Set a pot, add olive oil, flour and mix them together quickly. Then slowly pour with vegetable stock and mushroom soup cube. Stir until flour are dissolved.
  2. Add a half of sliced champignon mushrooms, bay leaf then simmer on a low heat. Keep always stir until done because flour will stick at the bottom of pot. Then leave it cool down.
  3. Spinning tofu with ingredient in No.1, add all in the pot. Then throw the left-over sliced champignon mushrooms.
  4. Boil and simmer until to thick soup, then season with salt and pepper. Decorating with sliced champignon mushrooms, pepper powder and tofu before serving.
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Crock Pot Cream of Mushroom Soup - Easy Vegetarian Crock Pot Soup Recipe - Easy Crock Pot Recipe - Vegetarian Soup Recipe
This cream of mushroom soup recipe is slow cooked for hours to really let ... Crock Pot French Onion Soup - Vegetarian Crock Pot Recipe - Vegan Crockpot . ...
http://vegetarian.about.com/od/vegetariancrockpotrecipe/r/creamofmushroom.htm

Vegan Cream of Mushroom Soup - Creamy Mushroom Soup - Easy Low Fat Vegetarian Mushroom Soup Recipe - Vegan Soup Recipes
More Vegetarian Mushroom Soup Recipes. Crockpot Cream of Mushroom Soup
http://vegetarian.about.com/od/soupsstewsandchili/r/veganmushroom.htm

Saturday, October 30, 2010

Spicy Squash Soup - LOW-FAT Creamy Soup Recipes

Spicy butternut squash soup recipe - Recipes - BBC Good Food
A spicy and warming soup, great for when its cold outside!
http://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/5302/spicy-butternut-squash-soup

Mediterranean Cooking in Alaska: Recipe: Spicy Squash Soup (Σούπα με Kολοκύθα)
31 Dec 2007 ... Recipe: Spicy Squash Soup (Σούπα με Kολοκύθα). Squash tends to build up at our house. I love it; my husband doesn't. It's one of the few ...
http://medcookingalaska.blogspot.com/2007/12/recipe-spicy-squash-soup.html


SPICY SQUASH SOUP

Makes 6 servings

Ingredients:
  • 2 (12-ounce) packages frozen pureed squash
  • 2 (14.5-ounce) cans fat-free, low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 large potato, peeled, diced
  • 1 red green bell pepper, cored, seeded, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeno, seeded, finely chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1-1/2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • Fresh lime wedges

Directions:
Heat squash and broth in a large pot over medium heat. Simmer about 10 minutes or until squash is thawed. Add potato and peppers and bring to a simmer. Cook about 10 more minutes or until soup has thickened and potato is tender. Season with salt, cumin and lime juice. Serve hot garnished with cilantro and lime wedges.


LOW-FAT CREAMY SOUP RECIPES
  • Tips for Making Creamy LOW-FAT Soup
  • LOW-FAT Creamy of Asparagus
  • LOW-FAT Cream of Mushroom Soup

image/info credit: http://www.sheknows.com/food-and-recipes/articles/807388/lowfat-creamy-soup-recipes

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Spicy Squash Soup Recipe - MyRecipes.com
Spicy Squash Soup. Sunset. Spicy Squash Soup ... Add zucchini to soup and stir often over medium-high heat until soup simmers and zucchini are tender when ...
http://find.myrecipes.com/recipes/recipefinder.dyn?action=displayRecipe&recipe_id=10000001853899

"Tis the Season for Spicy Winter Squash Soup - Rolling in Dough
4 Feb 2007 ... Here's my post about your Spicy Squash Soup recipe: http://medcookingalaska.blogspot.com/2007/12/recipe-spicy-squash-soup.html
http://www.chelseagreigh.typepad.com/bonvivant/2007/02/tis_the_season_.html

Fresh and Spicy Squash Soup - Recipes - Food - Canadian Living
Fresh and Spicy Squash Soup. By The Canadian Living Test Kitchen. roll over and click star to rate rating star. 192 people added this to their Recipe Box
http://www.canadianliving.com/food/fresh_and_spicy_squash_soup.php

Gingered Butternut Squash Soup with Spicy Pecan Cream Recipe - Dean Fearing | Food & Wine
Dean Fearing loves the holiday feel of butternut squash, especially when it's combined with ginger, as it is for his smooth, gently sweet soup.
http://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/gingered-butternut-squash-soup-with-spicy-pecan-cream

Spicy Butternut Squash Soup | Food | Channel4.com
15 Jan 2009 ... Paul plans to squash the opposition with his spicy butternut soup recipe. Browse all Come Dine With Me recipes at Channel4.com/food.
http://www.channel4.com/food/recipes/occasions/dinner-parties/come-dine-with-me/series-5/spicy-butternut-squash-soup-recipe_p_1.html

Thursday, October 28, 2010

LOW-FAT Cream of Mushroom Soup - LOW-FAT Creamy Soup Recipes

Nearly Non-Fat Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe - Calorie Count
Makes 4 servings. Awesome Creamy Nearly Non-fat Mushroom Soup! Ingredients ... Add to the broth and keep on low heat for 10 minutes or more. Categories
http://caloriecount.about.com/nearly-non-fat-cream-mushroom-recipe-r5108

Diabetic Recipes: Low-fat Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe
Source: dLife. A low fat cream of mushroom soup made with onions. ... 2.5 cup low sodium vegetable broth , or canned vegetable stock 2.5 cup fat free milk ,
http://www.dlife.com/diabetes/diabetic-recipes/Low_fat-Cream-of-Mushroom-Soup/r10305.html


LOW-FAT CREAM OF MUSHROOM SOUP
(Makes 6 servings)

Ingredients:
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 leeks, chopped (white part only)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 sweet onion, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper
  • Pinch kosher salt
  • Pinch fresh ground pepper
  • 1 pound fresh mushrooms, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 32 ounces beef, chicken, or vegetable stock
  • 1 cup evaporated milk
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme
Directions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Cook leeks, garlic, onions and red pepper, stirring frequently, for 5 minutes or until leeks are tender. Season with salt and pepper. Add mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes until tender.

4. Stir in flour, stock, milk and thyme. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Let cool slightly. In batches, pour soup into a blender or food processor and blend until creamy. A stick blender can also be used. Reheat when ready to serve. Simmer, do not boil.


LOW-FAT CREAMY SOUP RECIPES
  • Tips for Making Creamy LOW-FAT Soup
  • LOW-FAT Creamy of Asparagus
  • Spicy Squash Soup

image/info credit: http://www.sheknows.com/food-and-recipes/articles/807388/lowfat-creamy-soup-recipes

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How to Make a Low Fat Cream of Mushroom Soup | eHow.com
How to Make a Low Fat Cream of Mushroom Soup. Cream of mushroom soup is usually laden with butter and cream to enhance the flavor of the mushrooms.
http://www.ehow.com/how_2308923_make-low-fat-cream-mushroom.html

Cream of Mushroom Soup I Recipe - Allrecipes.com
Cream of Mushroom Soup I. By: Karena. "Use the everyday mushrooms we ... Then I added sliced baby portabella mushrooms with a little salt and cooked on low about 5 minutes. ... I used the fat free half and half and no one had a clue.
http://allrecipes.com//Recipe/cream-of-mushroom-soup-i/Detail.aspx

Low-Fat Cream of Mushroom Soup Recipe #622 - Foodgeeks
Try this recipe for Low-Fat Cream of Mushroom Soup on Foodgeeks.com.
http://www.foodgeeks.com/recipes/622

The Phizzing Tub...: Low Fat Cream of Mushroom Soup - Recipe
30 Dec 2008 ... Now I'm not sure what came over me but I thought why not make some low fat cream of mushroom soup. My mom would whip up a batch every now
http://phizzingtub.blogspot.com/2008/12/low-fat-cream-of-mushroom-soup-recipe.html

Cream Of Mushroom Soup Recipe - Taste.com.au
7 Nov 2008 ... Cream of mushroom soup recipe - Combine the milk, onions, parsley, garlic, ... thinly sliced; 125ml (1/2 cup) thickened reduced-fat cream ... Return the soup to the saucepan and heat over low heat until warmed through.
http://www.taste.com.au/recipes/11448/cream+of+mushroom+soup

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

LOW-FAT Cream of Asparagus - LOW-FAT Creamy Soup Recipes

Cream of Asparagus Soup Recipe - Soup Recipes
asparagus recipes · asparagus soup · cream soups. A cream of asparagus soup with asparagus and milk, along with butter and seasonings.
http://southernfood.about.com/od/asparagus/r/bln531.htm

Creamy Asparagus Soup Recipe | Simply Recipes
3 Apr 2007... weeks away from local asparagus, but I'm collecting recipes and getting ready! I love to use an immersion blender for soups like that, ...
http://simplyrecipes.com/recipes/creamy_asparagus_soup/


LOW-FAT CREAM OF ASPARAGUS
Makes 6 servings

Ingredients:
  • 2 teaspoons olive oilLOW-FAT Cream of Asparagus - LOW-FAT Creamy Soup Recipes
  • 1-1/2 pounds asparagus, cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 celery stalk, chopped
  • 2 leeks, chopped (white part only)
  • 1 medium potato, peeled, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 3-1/2 cups fat-free reduced-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup fat-free sour cream

Directions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Cook asparagus, onion, celery, leeks and potatoes, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes. Add broth and simmer 20 minutes or until vegetables are tender.

2. In batches, pour soup into a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Pour soup back into pot and stir in sour cream. Heat, stirring, until combined – do not boil. Serve warm.


LOW-FAT CREAMY SOUP RECIPES
  • Tips for Making Creamy LOW-FAT Soups
  • LOW-FAT Cream of Mushroom Soup
  • Spicy Squash Soup

image/info credit: http://www.sheknows.com/food-and-recipes/articles/807388/lowfat-creamy-soup-recipes

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Asparagus Soup - Soups - Recipes - from Delia Online
Make the most of asparagus while it's here - you can even make it into soup, ... pepper and keeping the heat low, let the soup barely simmer, partially covered, for 20-25 minutes. ... Thai recipes · Low fat recipes · Chocolate recipes
http://www.deliaonline.com/recipes/type-of-dish/soups/asparagus-soup.html

Low Fat Soups - Low Fat Soup Recipes
A selection of delicious and nutritious low-fat soups, using a variety of .... If you're looking for low fat asparagus recipes, try this low fat cream of ...
http://lowfatcooking.about.com/od/lowfatsoups/Low_Fat_Soups.htm

Asparagus soups - CookEatShare
Web Results with Asparagus soups. Cooks.com - Recipes - Cream Of Asparagus Soup .... Low fat turkey meatballs recipe · Frozen spanish rice ...
http://cookeatshare.com/popular/asparagus-soups

Asparagus Soup Recipes - ifood.tv | Your Food Network - Food Video Recipes Blog
Asparagus Soup is a delicious low carb soup recipe prepared by asparagus, onion, ... Creamy soup recipes, easy homemade soups, vegetable soup recipes, ...
http://www.ifood.tv/network/asparagus_soup/recipes

Saturday, October 23, 2010

Tips for Making Creamy LOW-FAT Soups

Winter is the season for soup. But, instead of opening up a can of the creamy condensed stuff, make your own homemade soup with fresh ingredients and half the fat and calories. By adding extra flavor with herbs and spices and other quality ingredients, you can cut the cream and butter but still have the same comforting taste of your favorite creamy soup.

Creamy Mushroom Soup

TIPS FOR MAKING CREAMY LOW-FAT SOUPS

COOKING TIP #1: PUREE
One of the best secrets to a thick and creamy soup is to puree some vegetables to use as the base. This keeps the fat and calories low but the flavor high.

COOKING TIP #2: REDUCE THE FAT
Instead of using heavy cream, use evaporated milk, half and half or reduced-fat or fat-free sour cream. Low-fat or fat-free plain yogurt is also a great substitution for cream. Yogurts can sometimes be sweet so balance out the flavors with plenty of herbs and spices.

COOKING TIP #3: MAKE A ROUX
For signature flavor and thickness, make a simple butter and flour roux for your soup base or add a paste of cornstarch and water. Then add a few vegetables and blend in a blender or food processor until it is creamy. You can also add some half and half if desired, but don’t add too much.

COOKING TIP #4: ADD PROTEIN
If you are a fan of tofu, substituting half of the cream in a recipe with tofu will lower the fat and add extra protein. It’s also a great option if you are cooking vegetarian-style.

COOKING TIP #5: SPICE IT UP
Be sure to use plenty of fresh herbs and spices. If you are using low-fat or fat-free products, a little extra salt, pepper, and fresh herbs and spices help ensure you get lots of flavor and don’t miss the fat.


LOW-FAT CREAMY SOUP RECIPES
  • LOW-FAT Creamy of Asparagus
  • LOW-FAT Cream of Mushroom Soup
  • Spicy Squash Soup

image/info credit: http://www.sheknows.com/food-and-recipes/articles/807388/lowfat-creamy-soup-recipes

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Top 10 Low Fat Winter Recipes - Low Fat Soups, Stews and Pies for Winter
My top 10 low fat winter warmers, featuring soups, stews and pies.
http://lowfatcooking.about.com/od/holidayrecipes/tp/winterecipes.htm

Six Low-Fat, Low-Calorie Soups
Six low-fat, low-calorie soups for cold fall and winter days.
http://lowfatcooking.about.com/od/lowfatsoups/tp/6lowcalfatsaoups.htm
Soup recipes - Recipes - BBC Good Food
Come home to a warming bowlful of this filling, low-fat soup. 5 stars 62 ratings ... A delicious, spicy soup, packed full of iron and low fat to boot.
http://www.bbcgoodfood.com/content/recipes/favourites/soup/

Low Fat Recipes
9 Sep 2008 ... Three delicious low fat soup recipes. ... Low Fat Soup Recipes. Warm yourself up with our three low fat recipes for steaming soup.
http://www.weightlossresources.co.uk/recipes/low_fat/soup_recipes.htm

Low fat soups recipes
A great collection of Low fat soups recipes, with information and cooking advice as well as a food glossary, nutritional and dietary information and food
http://www.cookitsimply.com/category-0020-049q0.html

Thursday, October 21, 2010

เมี่ยงคำ: Miang Kum (Leaf-Wrapped Bite-Size Appetizer)


Miang kham - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Miang kham is a traditional Thai snack. It is often sold in the street, the ingredients separately wrapped in small cellophane or plastic bags.
Origins - Preparation - Alternatives - References
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Miang_kham

Miang Kham, Mieng Kam / ImportFood.com Thai recipe
3 Jun 2009 ... Thai recipe for Miang Kham (also known as mieng kam), and online ethnic grocery store so you can purchase imported Thailand ingredients.
http://importfood.com/recipes/miangkham.html


 เมี่ยงคำ: Miang Kum (Leaf-Wrapped Bite-Size Appetizer)

"เมี่ยงคำ" เป็นอาหารว่างชนิดหนึ่งที่มีคุณค่าทางสมุนไพรสูง เพราะมีคุณสมบัติในการบำรุงรักษาธาตุทั้ง 4 เพื่อให้สมดุลกัน เป็นอาหารที่คนภาคกลางนิยมรับประทานเป็นอาหารว่าง ในช่วงฤดูฝน เนื่องจากเป็นช่วงที่ต้นชะพลูออกใบและยอดอ่อนมากที่สุดและรสชาติดีแต่จริงๆ แล้วเมี่ยงคำสามารถรับประทานเป็นอาหารว่างได้ตลอดทั้งปี แล้วแต่ว่าจะมุ่งรับประทานเพื่อความอร่อยหรือจะรับประทานเพื่อการดูแลสุขภาพ (การปรับสมดุลธาตุในร่างกาย)



เครื่องปรุงน้ำเมี่ยง
  • น้ำตาลปิ๊บ 500 กรัม
  • น้ำตาลทราย 250 กรัม
  • น้ำปลา 1 1/2 ช้อนโต๊ะ
  • เกลือ 1 ช้อนโต๊ะ
  • กุ้งแห้งป่น 3/4 ถ้วย
  • มะพร้าวขูดคั่วโขลกให้ละเอียด 1/2 ถ้วย
  • กะปิเผา 1ช้อนโต๊ะ
  • หอมแดงเผา 4 หัว
  • กระเทียมเผา 1 หัวใหญ่
  • ขิงซอย 1 1/2 ช้อนโต๊ะ
  • น้ำ 1/2 ถ้วย
เครื่องเคียง
  • ใบชะพลู ,ใบทองหลาง (Piper sarmentosum Roxb)
  • มะพร้าวซอยคั่ว
  • ถั่วลิสงคั่ว
  • ขิง
  • หอมแดง
  • มะนาว
  • พริกขี้หนู
  • กุ้งแห้ง
วิธีทำ
  1. โขลกหอมแดงเผา กระเทียมเผา ขิง และกะปิให้ละเอียด
  2. น้ำตาลใส่หม้อตั้งไฟ ใส่น้ำ 1 ถ้วย น้ำปลา เกลือ พอเดือด
  3. ใส่เครื่องที่โขลกไว้
  4. ใส่กุ้งแห้ง มะพร้าวคั่ว มะขามเปียก เคี่ยวต่อจนได้ที่

วิธีการจัดรับประทาน
ให้จัดใบชะพลู หรือใบทองหลางใส่จานวางเครื่องปรุงอย่างละน้อยลงบนใบชะพลู หรือใบทองหลางที่จัดเรียงไว้ตักน้ำเมี่ยงหยอดห่อเป็นคำๆ รับประทาน

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Miang Kum (Leaf-Wrapped Bite-Size Appetizer) เมี่ยงคำ

"Miang Kham" is a traditional Thai snack in the middle part of Thailand, it is both delicious and healthy. "Miang Kham" can eat all the time but most popular during the rainy season because there are most young leaves (Piper sarmentosum leaves) that most tasty and delicious.

Miang kam is a tasty snack often sold as street food. It involves wrapping little tidbits of several items in a leaf, along with a sweet-and-salty sauce. Chewing all the myriad ingredients together gives taste receptacles on the tongue and mouth a thrilling experience from the rich, roasted flavors of coconut and peanut, to the tanginess of lime with zest and the pungent bursts of diced ginger and chillies. It makes a great party food.

Miang-Kham-เมี่ยงคำ-05Ingredients
Sauce :
1 tablespoon shrimp paste
½ tablespoon sliced shallots
½ tablespoon sliced galangal
1 teaspoon sliced ginger
2 tablespoons chopped dried shrimps
2 tablespoons grated coconut
3 tablespoons chopped unsalted peanuts
1 cup chopped palm sugar
2 ½ cups water

Filling:
5 tablespoons grated coconut, roasted in moderate oven until light brown
3 tablespoons finely diced ginger
3 tablespoons finely diced shallots
3 tablespoons unsalted roasted peanuts
3 tablespoons small dried shrimps, chopped
3 tablespoons finely diced lime
2 tablespoons chopped green bird's-eye chillies
20 edible tree leaves

Preparation:
In a saucepan, combine and heat the shrimp paste, shallots and galangal until you smell the aroma, then let it cool.
Blend the shrimp paste, shallot and galangal mixture with the coconut, peanuts, shrimp and giner in a food processor, or, if you really want to do it the old-fashioned way, pound the ingredients with a mortar and pestle.
Pour the contents into a saucepan, adding the sugar and water. Mix well and keep stirring as it comes to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer while the mixture shrinks to about a cup, then let it cool.

Serving:Miang-Kham-เมี่ยงคำ-01
Pour the sauce into a small, decorative serving bowl and arrange the edible leaves, dried shrimps, limes, shallots, small hot chilies, peanuts, gingers and roasted coconuts in separate, very small bowls around it on a medium sized platter.

Eating:
Take a leaf and place a small amount of each of the filling ingredients in the middle, top with a spoonful of sauce, and fold up into a little package. Pop the package into your mouth and enjoy the fresh, springy taste

Leaves can be from a variety of edible Thai tree foilage, including Cha Plu (piperaceae) and Thonglaang (coral). Lettuce leaves can also be used as a substitute in the west.


info credit :
http://www.bloggang.com/viewdiary.php?id=jjbd&group=2&month=10-2007&date=22
http://www.tan-kitchen.com/2008/09/miang-kham.html

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Tan Kitchen - Thai Kitchen: Miang Kham
Miang Kham. Miang kam is a tasty snack often sold as street food. It involves wrapping little tidbits of several items in a leaf,
http://www.tan-kitchen.com/2008/09/miang-kham.html

“เมี่ยงคำ...สูตรนี้ ทำง่าย” ประโยชน์สูง อร่อยสุดๆ เรื่อง...มหัศจรรย์ของใบชะพลูหน้าฝน...
14 ก.ย. 2009 ... เมี่ยงคำเป็นอาหารที่คนภาคกลางนิยมรับประทานเป็นอาหารว่าง ... เมื่อทำเมี่ยงคำเป็นอาหารว่าง ผู้รับประทานสามารถปรุงตามสัดส่วน
http://www.oknation.net/blog/soonthorn-filmkayab/2009/09/14/entry-1

เมี่ยงคำ สูตรดั้งเดิม
ช่องทางทำกิน : ข่องทางทำกิน:เคล็ดลับ 'เมี่ยงคำ' ทำเงินด้วยสูตรดั้งเดิม ... วรรณวิมล เฟื่องฟูสิน เจ้าของเมี่ยงคำชาววัง "วัน" จะเป็นผู้ที่ให้สูตร ...
http://www.thaibizcenter.com/hotnewsdetail.asp?newsid=242

Sunday, October 17, 2010

Types of Mushrooms Used in Chinese Cooking

Chinese Food Recipes - Chinese Mushrooms and its Health Benefits
Chinese mushrooms - its medicinal and nutritional values. ...
http://www.chinesefood-recipes.com/food_articles/chinese_mushrooms_medicinal_properties.php

Black Mushroom - Glossary of Chinese Ingredients and Cooking Terms
Black Mushroom - find out more about the dried black mushrooms that are a staple of Chinese cuisine, from the glossary of Chinese ingredients and cooking
http://chinesefood.about.com/od/glossary/g/blackmushroom.htm

Types of Mushrooms Used in Chinese Cooking

Shiitake mushroom - credit: http://www.channel4.com/
Chinese Mushroom, also called Shiitake mushroom, Chinese black mushroom and forest mushroom (not to be confused with European dried mushrooms) are the most widely used mushrooms in Chinese cooking and are grown chiefly in China and Japan. Their fleshy caps are dense, and their stems are tough yet can be used for flavoring before being discarded. Shiitakes can easily replace other mushrooms in recipes. They have a pleasant flavor and absorb the taste of other ingredients. Chinese mushrooms are often sold dried and will keep for up to a year. Rinse well, then soak in hot water for at least 30 minutes. The soaking water can be strained and used to add flavor to a stock. Recipe: Bamboo Shoots with Chinese Mushrooms.


Agaricus mushroom - credit: http://thebutterflydiaries.wordpress.com
Agaricus mushroom - Plump, dome-shaped mushrooms, ranging in size from small (button mushrooms) to big. The most widely cultivated and consumed mushroom, these common mushrooms have a mild and earthy flavor. Their color can range from white to pale brown, and their caps should be firm and evenly colored.


Straw Mushroom - This Asian mushroom gets its name from being cultivated on straw that has been used on a paddy. These grayish brown fungi are long with a conical cap over a bulbous stem, and have a mild flavor that makes a nice addition to Chinese dishes. They can sometimes be found fresh in specialty produce markets but are more readily available canned. Also known as paddy-straw mushrooms and grass mushrooms. Try this recipe - Straw Mushrooms with Broccoli.


Wood Ear Fungi - a popular ingredient in Szechuan cooking, wood ear, is also known as the tree ear, Jew's ear or cloud ear mushroom. It owes that name to its flat earlike shape. Its translucent brownish beige flesh is gelatinous but firm, crunchy and relatively tasteless. They absorb the liquid in which they are cooked and take on the taste of the other ingredients. Wood ears are often sold fresh in Asian specialty food stores. They are also available dried. Store fresh wood ears unwashed in the refrigerator. Although they keep for up to a month, it is best to use them within a week. To prepare for use in recipes, wash the fresh mushrooms quickly in cold water and remove the sticky parts. As for dried wood ears, soak them in warm water for ten minutes. Drain them, change the water, and let them soak for a further 10 to 15 minutes or until soft. They will expand to up to five times their initial dry size. Then rinse off any dirt carefully.


Snow fungus, also known as white tree ear fungus, silver fungus, and silver ear is quite similar to wood ear fungi but it is white in color and almost transparent. Good-quality snow fungus has a pale and yellowish-white color. It is often used in soups and desserts and believed to improve the complexion. Thy these recipes : Sweet and Sour Vegetarian & Snow Fungi Sweet Soup.


Enoki mushrooms - credit: http://www.mushrooms.net.au/enoki.html
Enoki mushrooms - Also called golden needles mushroom are small white mushrooms that grow in clumps with long, thin stems topped with a tiny white cap and a mild, almost fruity flavor. They have a crisp, crunchy texture when fresh, but tend to become tough when heated; also known as velvet stem/shank, snow puff and golden mushrooms. The enoki mushroom is highly esteemed in Asia and figures prominently in various Chinese dishes.


Oyster mushrooms - A fan-shaped mushroom with white flesh and a gray to brown exterior. This soft, moist fungus has a peppery, robust flavor when raw, and is often used in salads. The flavor softens when cooked, and oyster mushrooms are a nice addition to casseroles, soups or stir-fried dishes. Available in some areas year-round, particularly in specialty produce and Asian markets; canned oyster mushrooms, which should be rinsed before using, are also available.


credit: http://www.chinesefood-recipes.com/cooking_guide_tips/mushrooms_chinese_cooking.php
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Vegetarian Recipes - Chinese Vegetarian Cooking
Just because you're cooking Chinese food doesn't mean you must stick with ...
http://chinesefood.about.com/od/vegetarian/p/vegetarian.htm

Chinese Recipes - Soft-fried Mushrooms
Delicious Chinese recipe you can easily cook - Soft-fried Mushrooms. ... Get 100's FREE Chinese Recipes & Cooking Tips In Your Email Weekly NOW!
http://www.chinesefooddiy.com/recipe_SFMushrooms.htm

Cooking with Dried Mushrooms
Cooking with Dried Mushrooms. Dried mushrooms have intense flavor. ... For Chinese dishes, consider dried shiitakes, also called black Chinese mushrooms.
http://www.asianonlinerecipes.com/cooking_guide/cooking-dried-mushrooms.php

Chinese Cooking Ingredients - Cook With Chinese Ingredients
The more common but relatively unused Chinese cooking ingredients in common western household include dried fungus, Chinese mushrooms, garlic stems, ...
http://www.healthycookingrecipes.com/chineserecipes/chinese-cooking-ingredients.htm

Thursday, October 14, 2010

The Vegetarian Festival : The Meritorious Festival, Thailand

Phuket Vegetarian Festival, Phuket Thailand
Phuket Vegetarian Festival : A colourful event held over a nine day period in late September/early October in phuket.
http://www.phuket.com/festival/vegetarian.htm

Phuket Vegetarian Festival - Phuket Festivals and Events
The Vegetarian Festival started about 150 years ago, the majority of the Chinese tin mine workers were settled in Phuket. They formed such a large portion
http://www.phuketvegetarian.com/


The Vegetarian Festival | The Meritorious Festival, Thailand

The Vegetarian Festival is observed nationwide on a grand scale. The most famous place holding this festival is absolutely Phuket province where the most spectacular event takes place yearly. In other provinces such as Trang, Songkhla (Hat Yai) and Chon Buri (Pattaya), people of the Chinese descendants keep this festivals commonly.

However, the most known part of the festival as is shown through the media is the blood-curdling presentations, such as, piercing the cheeks with a pointed steel rod, walking barefoot on burning charcoal, sprinkling oneself with boiling oil, cutting one's tongue and climbing a ladder with rungs made of sharp blades.

The festival occurs yearly during the period from the 1st to the 9th of the 9th Chinese lunar month, which corresponds to 11-19 October. During this time almost all food shops and restaurants will fly yellow flags signifying that vegetarian food is available there. It is so convenient to have vegetarian meals during this time.

In recent years, the Vegetarian Festival has become more popular and has been increasingly observed by young people. This is so because of the belief that the observers will have better health and the purer mind and gain merits from taking vegetarian foods. This aspect, though being the main purpose of this festival, is less mentioned than the spectacular processions.

There are several interesting perspectives of the festival.


Origin

The Vegetarian Festival is a religious event originating from China. It was observed in Phuket for the first time in the newly developed mining town of Kathu by a Chinese opera company about 170 years ago.

Kathu was then a thriving town inhabited mostly by Chinese miners. As they were well-to-do and in need of recreation, they hired an opera troupe from China to give performances. Everything went on smoothly and the troupe was able to stay there for several months. Then they were suddenly stricken by an epidemic and the theatre was forced to close down.

The trouble reminded the leading members of the company of the religious rites they had performed in China periodically but that they had neglected to do since arriving in Thailand. They were convinced that they were being punished with the illness for their negligence.

So when the time came for the observance, the whole troupe abstained from eating meat and animal oil and performed religious rites for a period of 9 days and 9 nights, in order to purify their bodies and minds, and to get rid of evil.

Strange to say, all the members of the troupe recovered their health immediately afterwards. This caused great curiosity to the local people. Some of them did the same thing the next year and found it beneficial both physically and mentally. The number of people practising this increased year by year, in Phuket Island and other provinces with numerous Chinese descendants. And now it has become a festival for the whole country highlighting provinces such as Phuket, Trang, Songkhla (Hat Yai county) and Chon Buri (Pattaya) where grand-scale celebrations take place.
The festival has undergone some changes in form and content through decades and has become more and more colourful and fascinating. Details of procedures are different in different provinces. As practised today, the vegetarian festival has the following features:

Name -- The full name of the festival is "Observe the Ten Commandments and Abstain from Meat".

Period -- The festival normally lasts for nine days from the 1st to the 9th of the 9th Chinese lunar month, as mentioned above.

Dress -- All the vegetarians are required to dress in white during the entire period as white signifies purity.

Food -- People observing the festival should abstain from eating meat, animal oil and five pungent-odour vegetables, viz. garlic, onion, Chinese chives, garlic chives and tobacco. The vegetarians can have their vegetarian meals either at home or at a Chinese temple nearby. In Phuket the meals at the temples are provided free, but most people make a donation and have their names registered first. In Pattaya, in previous years, there were the biggest pot and wok of vegetarian pha-lo and fried rice to dole out to the vegetarians participating in the festival.

Religious rites -- Rites are performed at the Chinese temples at various dates and times. The details will be given by the organizers beforehand.

Processions -- The best known exciting and fascinating processions are those held in Phuket. Long lines of devotees, led by images of gods and priests walk through the streets in procession several times during the festival. Onlookers lining along the streets with large quantities of firecrackers prepared in advance, light and throw them to the procession, causing continuous thunder-like noises that are heard miles away and adding colours to the occasion. It is in processions that the observers see some magical performances.


Magical Performances

For the majority of people, these form the most absorbing part of the festival. During the performances of religious rites at the temples or in the processions, the priests or the mediums conduct various kinds of dangerous acts to show the power of their gods, to strengthen the faith of their followers and to rid them of their bad luck. These acts include walking barefoot across a stretch of ground paved with burning charcoal, climbing up and down, also barefoot, a stepladder with a total of 72 crosspieces made of sharp iron blades, and cutting, striking or piercing parts of the body with sharp or pointed objects.

All these perilous acts are performed by or to mediums who are in hypnosis. Still, it seems inexplicable that they always escape serious injury. When the rites are over and the mediums regain consciousness, only traces of cuts are left on the skin and these are healed soon afterwards.

You may wonder whether the mediums have been hired to do the job and whether they have been trained beforehand. The reply is, they have not. All the mediums act involuntarily. But they must have faith in the gods before they can be possessed by the gods.


The Ten Commandments

1. Abstain from killing animals;
2. Abstain from eating all kinds of meat;
3. Abstain from stealth and embezzlement;
4. Abstain from harming others bodily or mentally;
5. Abstain from telling lies, using obscene language or swearing at people;
6. Abstain from touching people of the opposite sex or talking with them flirtingly;
7. Abstain from taking alcohol or using narcotics;
8. Abstain from gambling;
9. Abstain from wearing ornaments including those made of metals or leather;
10. Abstain from sharing receptacles or utensils or a meal with people who do not observe the commandments.

ou may wonder, if the festival is so solemn, why it should have the appearance of a carnival. The answer is that the participants are serious in their faith. The dangerous performances are given to attract crowds and to try to convert them by making them believe in the powers of gods. In this respect, the organizers have been very successful as is evidenced by the ever increasing numbers of participants in the event every year.


A Taoist Event

The religious rites involved in the festival are entirely Taoist in origin as is shown by the following:

The supreme god worshipped in the shrines of Phuket is the Jade Emperor, or Yok-Ong Songte as the local people call him. He is the supreme god of Taoism.

The gods invoked to preside over the festival are called "Kiu Ong", which means "Nine Heavenly Kings". Originally, the nine kings meant the gods of the sun, the moon and seven other heavenly bodies. They should still be so. But they are now interpreted also to mean seven Buddhas and two Bodhisattvas. This is an obvious attempt to give the festival a Buddhist colour to broaden its appeal.

In short, the Vegetarian Festival is a festival to clean the body and mind. And it is a bonus to visit Phuket or other participating provinces during the festival period. Even if you do not like noise and crowd, you can have a glimpse of this event and then continue to enjoy your holiday in the usual way. The beautiful nature is not disturbed and is always ready to welcome you.


info credit: http://www.thaiwaysmagazine.com/thai_article/2412_vegetarian/vegetarian.html

Tuesday, October 12, 2010

General Tso's Tofu

General Tao's Tofu
18 Aug 2003 ... Add a photo to General Tao's Tofu. Photo by mtnfavorites. Photo by amandalucia ... General Tao's Tofu Ingredients (use vegan versions): ...
http://vegweb.com/index.php?topic=8769.0

Tofu General Tso's Recipe - Food.com
28 Oct 2005 ... I love General Tso's Sauce and have always wanted a vegetarian version, so here it is! Not only is it lighter than the chicken version but ...
http://www.food.com/recipe/tofu-general-tsos-143085




General Tso's Tofu

Ingredients:
  • 1 block of extra firm tofu, pressed and cubed in 1" pieces
  • 1 tsp. sesame oil
  • 1 1/2 c. prepared brown rice or farro/wheat berries
  • 1 head of broccoli, cut in florets
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced thinly
  • 1/2 lb. snow peas, trimmed
  • 1 15 oz. can of baby corn in segments

sauce:
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 scallion, minced
  • 1/4 c. tamari
  • 1 tbsp. rice wine vinegar
  • 1 tbsp. sherry
  • 1 tsp. sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp. brown sugar
  • 1 tbsp. sriracha
  • 1 heaping tsp. cornstarch.
  • 10 Japones chilies

Directions:
  1. Place tofu in a press, set aside for 5 minutes.
  2. Heat up rice, place in bowl.
  3. Place vegetables in a steamer over 1" of water, bring to a boil and steam vegetables for 5-8 minutes, until tender but not mushy.
  4. In a small dish, whisk together all sauce ingredients except chilies.
  5. Heat a wok over medium-high.
  6. Add 1 tsp. sesame oil and tofu, toss to sear the outside.
  7. Whisk sauce mixture again (make sure to get cornstarch if it settles to the bottom), pour over tofu, toss in chilies.
  8. Use a spatula to gently mix tofu and sauce, bring to a simmer and turn to low heat.
  9. Simmer for 2 minutes, until mixture is translucent and no longer milky.
  10. Spoon vegetables into bowl, spoon tofu and sauce mixture over top.
  11. Serve immediately.

image/info credit: http://www.veggiebyseason.com/2010/07/general-tso-tofu.html

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The Vegan Ronin: General Tso's Tofu
19 Jan 2008 ... General Tso's Tofu. Well bite my ass and call me Sally! I had another recipe lined up for today, but last night was such an incredible
http://theveganronin.blogspot.com/2008/01/general-tsos-tofu.html

General Tso's Tofu Recipe
Dip tofu chunks into egg mixture then coat with cornstarch mixture. Fry in hot oil until golden brown. You may need to do this in batches if your pan is not ...
http://www.mealsmatter.org/recipes-meals/recipe/37172

VeganYumYum » General Tso's Tofu with Bok Choy and Shitake Mushrooms
21 Jan 2007 ... Recipe after the jump. General Tso's Tofu Serves four. 1 box of firm tofu egg substitute for 1 egg 3/4 cup cornstarch
http://veganyumyum.com/2007/01/general-tsos-tofu-with-bok-choy-and/

Saturday, October 2, 2010

เห็ดหอมอบวุ้นเส้น (เมนูอาหารเจ) : Baked Chinese Black Mushroom with Glass Noodles (Vegetarian menu)

Cooks.com - Recipe - Chinese Black Mushroom Soup
NEWSLETTER. Enter your email to signup for the Cooks.com Recipe Newsletter.
http://www.cooks.com/rec/view/0,1718,144180-226199,00.html

Chinese Black Mushrooms - Asian Ingredients
The name is a bit of a misnomer, since Chinese black mushrooms can be light brown, dark brown, ... How to Make Chinese Fried Rice · Chinese Recipes For Fall ...
http://chinesefood.about.com/library/blchineseing7.htm

เห็ดหอมอบวุ้นเส้น (เมนูอาหารเจ)
Baked Chinese Black Mushroom with Glass Noodles (Vegetarian menu)

ส่วนผสม
  1. เห็ดหอม 8-10 ดอก
  2. วุ้นเส้น 1 ถ้วย
  3. รากผักชี 2-3 ราก
  4. พริกไทยเม็ดทุบพอแตก 5 เม็ด
  5. ซีอิ้วดำ 1/4 ช้อนชา
  6. ซีอิ้วขาว 1 ช้อนโต๊ะ
  7. ซอสถั่วเหลืองปรุงรส 2 ช้อนชา
  8. ขิงหั่นเป็นแว่น 10 แว่น
  9. น้ำมันพืช 3 ช้อนโต๊ะ
  10. งาคั่ว 1 ช้อนโต๊ะ

วิธีทำ
  1. วุ้นเส้นแช่น้ำพอนิ่ม ตัดสั้นประมาณ 2 นิ้ว
  2. ล้างเห็ดหอมให้สะอาดแล้วแช่น้ำพอนิ่ม (เก็บน้ำที่แช่ไว้) หั่นเป็นชิ้นขนาดพอคำ
  3. โขลกรากผักชีและงาคั่วรวมกันให้ละเอียด ผัดให้หอม ใส่เห็ดหอม ซีอิ้วขาว ซอสถั่วเหลืองปรุงรส ใส่น้ำเห็ดหอม ปล่อยไว้จนเดือดพักไว้
  4. ใส่ น้ำมันพืชลงในหม้ออบ เรียงขิง ใส่วุ้นเส้น ราดด้วยเห็ดหอมผัด โรยด้วยพริกไทย เหยาะด้วยซีอิ้วดำ เพื่อให้เกิดสีสันชวนรับประทาน นำไปอบด้วยไฟอ่อนสักครู่ใหญ่จึงปรับไฟขนาดกลางอบประมาณ 30 นาที จนวุ้นเส้นนุ่มสุก
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Ingredients
  1. 8-10 Dried chinese mushrooms
  2. 1 cup Glass noodles (or 30-50 g.)
  3. 2-3 Coriander roots
  4. 5 of White broken pepper corns (or 1-2 g.)
  5. 1/4 tsp. Black soy sauce or dark soy sauce
  6. 1 tbsp. Soy sauce
  7. 2 tsp. Seasoning soy souce
  8. 10 Sliced ginger
  9. 3 tbsp. Vegetable oil
  10. 1 tbsp. Parch sesame
Directions
  1. Soak glass noodles soft enough. Cut about 2 inches.
  2. Wash the dried chinese mushrooms thoroughly, then soak in warm water about 1/2 hour (Keep the soaking water), Slice into pieces.
  3. Bring the sesame seeds and coriander root pounded together and stir thoroughly, then add; Chinese mushrooms, Soy sauce, Seasoning soy souce and the soaking water of mushrooms. Leave until boiling.
  4. Add vegetable oil to the casserole, then with sliced ginger, glass noodles, fried mushrooms (from no.3), pepper seeds and black soya sauce (adds great flavor and color of food). With low heat to bake a few minutes, so adjust the head light medium roast about 30 minutes until glass noodles cooked and soft.

credit: http://www.hilunch.com/mushroom-grass-noodle
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