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Molasses Tonic | Just Take A Bite

Molasses Tonic

In need of a warm drink that not only tastes good but is packed with essential minerals? Molasses tonic is the perfect warm up and pick-me-up drink for cold weather.

Molasses Tonic | Just Take A Bite

I like warm drinks. Do you?

Even on the hottest summer days I still start the day with a warm drink. It has a calming effect on my mind and body. In fact I’m sipping on one right now while I write this post!

I’ve never been a coffee drinker. I usually go for tea.

But these days I pretty much drink one of two things. Either healing hot chocolate or molasses tonic. Both provide minerals in a great tasting, soothing beverage.

You may be wondering, what’s so great about molasses? Isn’t that just sugar?

Molasses Tonic | Just Take A Bite

Molasses is actually packed with vitamins and minerals.

It contains:

  • potassium
  • magnesium
  • calcium
  • iron
  • vitamin B6
  • niacin
  • pantothenic acid
  • choline
  • phosphorus
  • zinc
  • copper
  • selenium
  • chromium
  • cobalt
  • sodium

It has also been shown to be helpful with a variety of health issues from PMS, headaches and acne to bone health and constipation.

What’s not to love?

Well, maybe the flavor.

Molasses is an acquired taste.

At least for me. If you are not a fan just start with a small amount and work your way up to a full tablespoon.

You can even do half molasses and half maple syrup to start. Maple syrup has minerals too!

As you can see molasses is very nutritious. You could just take a big spoonful once or twice a day.

Molasses Tonic | Just Take A Bite

I like to combine it with some other nutrients in a hot drink to really give my body a boost.

So you can add any or all of the following to create a molasses tonic:

  • stinging nettle (allergy relief, reduce inflammation)
  • grass-fed collagen (easy-to-digest protein, gut healing)
  • unrefined sea salt (trace minerals, hydration/electrolyte balance)
  • cocoa powder (magnesium, iron, fiber, manganese, zinc, flavonoids)
  • carob powder (calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium)
  • maple syrup (calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus sodium, potassium, zinc)
  • butter and/or coconut oil (healthy saturated fat, helps balance the protein and carbohydrates)

When you put all of these together molasses tonic can practically be a meal replacement! And if you have a super busy morning here and there it could be. I drink it after a meal. Though it is best to wait an hour after eating to let your food settle/start digesting first.

If you don’t have time or all of the ingredients to make the full molasses tonic you can simply add molasses and sea salt to hot water. You’ll still get a big nutritional boost and feel hydrated.

The next time you need a hot beverage skip the coffee. Instead whip up a power packed molasses tonic.

This is great for kids too. Add some whole milk or coconut milk to their molasses tonic for a creamy drink.

Do you consume molasses regularly? What is your favorite way to use it? 
Molasses Tonic | Just Take A Bite

Molasses Tonic
Serves 1
A warm drink packed with vitamins and minerals
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Ingredients
  1. 1 1/2 - 2 cups boiling water
  2. 1/2 - 1 Tbsp. blackstrap molasses
  3. 1/4 tsp. unrefined sea salt
optional
  1. 1 tsp. nettle leaf
  2. 1 Tbsp. grass-fed collagen
  3. 1 tsp. organic cocoa powder
  4. 1/2 tsp. organic carob powder
  5. 2 tsp. grade B maple syrup
  6. 1 Tbsp. butter or coconut oil
  7. 2-4 Tbsp. whole milk or coconut milk
Instructions
  1. If using nettle leaf, use a tea strainer or cheesecloth to steep nettle leaves in 1/2 cup boiling water for 10 minutes. Remove the leaves.
  2. Add the remaining boiling water and ingredients.
  3. Stir to combine.
  4. Allow to cool enough to drink or add ice cubes or milk.
Notes
  1. This can be served warm or cold (iced molasses tonic).
  2. This can be placed in a water bottle and packed for school lunch.
Just Take A Bite https://justtakeabite.com/

In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog. It will not change the cost of any products or services for you.

No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Cups | Just Take A Bite

No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Cups

Looking for an easy, prep ahead fall breakfast? These no bake pumpkin cheesecake cups are great for kids and adults. Plus they are packed with nutrition.

No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Cups | Just Take A Bite

One of my favorite foods is cheesecake. It comes in a close second behind ice cream. Yes, I love my creamy dairy desserts!

However, I don’t have time to make cheesecake very often. So I came up with a cheater version for fall.

Pumpkin cheesecake cups do require about two minutes of heating to dissolve the gelatin. But there is no baking involved. All of the prep work takes about five minutes of hands on time. In fact pumpkin cheesecake cups are so easy to prepare that even your kids can make them!

No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Cups | Just Take A Bite

Nutrition first.

Pumpkin is a superstar when it comes to vitamins. So any way I can add it to our diet is a bonus. Then you add yogurt with probiotics and healthy fat.

Don’t forget about the gelatin! This will help aid digestion and boost the protein content.

I love that I can make a batch of pumpkin cheesecake cups before bed and breakfast is ready in the morning. So when I have a child wake up at 6 am and tell me he’s starving we don’t have a mini crisis (i.e. meltdown).

Pumpkin cheesecake cups also work really well for school lunches. Kids see it as a treat. I see it as a source of protein and vegetables. A win for everyone.

No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Cups | Just Take A Bite

Perfect any time of day.

Of course you can always serve these for dessert too. Make a big batch for a crowd. Add some crumbled gluten free pumpkin spice graham crackers to individual cups to mimic crust. You’ll get rave reviews and be able to sit and enjoy some with your guests!

This recipe makes enough for two cheesecake cups. It can easily be scaled up to make as many servings as you need. They will stay good in the refrigerator for up to a week so you can make a batch to enjoy all week long. Though I can guarantee they won’t last very long!

If you like your cheesecake really soft you can reduce the gelatin about 1/2 tsp. If you like it super firm you can increase the gelatin about 1/2 tsp. Adjust it to make your ideal cheesecake.

Are you enjoying all things pumpkin right now?

Add these no bake pumpkin cheesecake cups to your list of must try treats!

No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Cups | Just Take A Bite

 

No Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake Cups
Serves 2
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Ingredients
  1. 3/4 cup plain greek yogurt or strained whole milk yogurt
  2. 1/4 cup pureed pumpkin
  3. 1/4 cup honey
  4. 3 tsp. grass-fed gelatin
  5. 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
  6. 2 homemade graham crackers or 1 store-bought graham cracker
Instructions
  1. Strain whole milk yogurt for one hour (it takes about 1 1/2 cups of yogurt to get 3/4 cups thick yogurt).
  2. Crush graham crackers and place in the bottom of two small containers (1/2 pint jars work well)
  3. Combine the yogurt, pumpkin, honey, cinnamon and gelatin in a small saucepan.
  4. Let sit one minute.
  5. Heat on low-med until the gelatin is dissolved and the mixture is liquid, about 2-3 minutes.
  6. Pour the mixture over the graham crackers and chill until set.
Notes
  1. Pumpkin cheesecake cups will stay good in the refrigerator for up to a week.
  2. Squash can be used in place of the pumpkin.
  3. Coconut milk yogurt can be used in place of the dairy yogurt.
Just Take A Bite https://justtakeabite.com/

In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog. It will not change the cost of any products or services for  you.

This post is linked to Savoring Saturdays.

Einkorn Pumpkin Scones | Just Take A Bite

Einkorn Pumpkin Scones

Einkorn pumpkin scones are the perfect fall breakfast. They are easy to make and free of dairy, eggs, nuts, soy, rice, corn and coconut.

Einkorn Pumpkin Scones | Just Take A Bite

Have you ever tried einkorn flour? It is quite new to me.

If you haven’t heard of it, einkorn is an ancient variety of wheat that has not been modified or processed like most modern wheat. So it is easier on the gut. Even some people that are sensitive to gluten can tolerate einkorn!

Baking with einkorn.

Einkorn absorbs liquid differently than regular wheat. So you can’t just swap it one for one in your recipes. You will likely need more einkorn.

Since I love to experiment I set to work right away when I got my first bag of einkorn flour. I created einkorn pumpkin scones.

I LOVE scones. Not only are they delicious, but they are easy to make and easy to adapt to an allergen free diet. There are no eggs required and you can use whatever flour and fat you tolerate. You just have to get the ratios right.

Einkorn Pumpkin Scones | Just Take A Bite

Start simple.

I make these even easier by mixing the dough in the food processor. Then you can chill the dough to bake later in the day, freeze the dough for freshly baked scones another day or bake them immediately.

Einkorn pumpkin scones are perfect for fall. Serve them for breakfast, brunch or alongside a hot bowl of soup (my favorite!). Who doesn’t love a warm, pumpkin and cinnamon scone fresh from the oven?!

The thing that stands out to me about einkorn flour is how soft it is. Most wheat has sort of a hard texture. But einkorn is so soft…which makes your baked goods soft! It really takes them to a whole new level.

Einkorn Pumpkin Scones | Just Take A Bite

I also love that you don’t have to soak these scones because they use all purpose einkorn flour. Many baked goods work really well with soaked flour. A scone is not one of them. I’ve tried. They just don’t quite turn out the same. Scones aren’t meant to have much liquid added. Just fat and flour.

Not a huge scone fan? Add an egg to the dough and turn einkorn pumpkin scones into cookies!

If you have never had einkorn flour I encourage you to give it a try. It is much gentler on the tummy than modern varieties of wheat. Plus it makes amazing baked goods.

Start with a batch of einkorn pumpkin scones to see how you like it and how it behaves. Then start your own experimenting.

Do you like scones as much as I do? What is your favorite flavor?

Einkorn Pumpkin Scones | Just Take A Bite

Einkorn Pumpkin Scones
Yields 12
A simple scone made with pumpkin and einkorn flour.
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Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
25 min
Total Time
35 min
Prep Time
10 min
Cook Time
25 min
Total Time
35 min
Ingredients
  1. 2 cups all purpose einkorn flour
  2. 1/2 cup cane sugar
  3. 1 tsp. cinnamon
  4. 1 tsp. baking soda
  5. 1/2 tsp. unrefined sea salt
  6. 1/2 cup solid fat (lard, tallow, butter, coconut oil)
  7. 2/3 cup pureed pumpkin
  8. 1 tsp. vanilla
  9. optional: 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips, chopped crispy pecans, dried cranberries
Instructions
  1. Heat the oven to 350*F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Combine the flour, sugar, cinnamon, soda and salt in a food processor (or bowl). Pulse to combine.
  3. Add the fat. Pulse until the mixture is crumbly (or combine by hand).
  4. Add the pumpkin and vanilla. Process until well combined.
  5. Transfer the dough to a bowl. Mix the chocolate chips/nuts/dried fruit in by hand.
  6. Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll into a ball and flatten on prepared parchment paper.
  7. Sprinkle cane sugar on top if desired.
  8. At this point you can freeze the scones or chill them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
  9. Bake for 25 minutes.
Notes
  1. To make these into cookies add one egg along with the pumpkin and vanilla. Scoop mounds of dough onto the baking sheet. Reduce baking time to 10 - 15 minutes.
  2. Squash can be used in place of the pumpkin. Butternut works best.
Just Take A Bite https://justtakeabite.com/

 

In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog. It will not change the cost of any products or services for  you.

This post is linked to Savoring Saturdays.

Sourdough Pumpkin Pie Cereal | Just Take A Bite

Sourdough Pumpkin Pie Cereal

Pumpkin isn’t just for fall desserts. Try it in your breakfast! Sourdough pumpkin pie cereal is crunchy, sweet and easy to make. Eat it for breakfast covered in milk or sprinkled on yogurt.

Sourdough Pumpkin Pie Cereal | Just Take A Bite

Are you getting excited for all things pumpkin?

I know I am. It’s crazy to think that just a few years ago I wanted nothing to do with anything pumpkin.

I hated it.

I hated it as a child and as an adult. I just didn’t understand why everyone loved pumpkin pie, pumpkin cheesecake, pumpkin everything.

Until I started roasting fresh pumpkin.

What you get in a can doesn’t even compare to freshly roasted pumpkin.

Sourdough Pumpkin Pie Cereal | Just Take A Bite

Pumpkin, pumpkin everywhere!

Now I love to use pumpkin year round!

Not only is it packed with nutrients, but it tastes great. I use it in soups, breads, muffins, pasta, crackers, pie, ice cream, cheesecake. Pretty much any way you can think of.

I even love it plain with a touch of honey and sea salt.

And yes, I can even handle canned pumpkin now.

Pumpkin for breakfast.

One of my favorite ways to use pumpkin is in sourdough pumpkin pie cereal. It’s like pumpkin pie in your breakfast bowl.

Combine sourdough with pumpkin, sugar and spice and you’ve got an amazing start to your day.

Sourdough pumpkin pie cereal is great with milk. But you can also sprinkle it on yogurt. I like to add it to my salted caramel custard. It is my replacement for granola.

Sourdough Pumpkin Pie Cereal | Just Take A Bite

Pumpkin for snacks.

Most of the time I find myself just munching on it plain! Sourdough pumpkin pie cereal makes a great snack.

Better yet mix it with crispy nuts and dried apples for the perfect fall trail mix.

Any way you serve it this cereal is a delicious fall treat.

Sourdough pumpkin pie cereal is made with traditional sourdough for easier digestion and nutrient absorption. It is also dairy, egg, nut, corn, soy, coconut and rice free.

Are you in need of something different for breakfast this fall?

Grab some pumpkin (fresh or canned) and get a batch of sourdough pumpkin pie cereal started. The whole family will love it!
Sourdough Pumpkin Pie Cereal | Just Take A Bite

Sourdough Pumpkin Pie Cereal
Serves 12
Simple sourdough cereal with pumpkin and spice.
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Ingredients
  1. 1 cup sourdough starter
  2. 1 cup wheat, spelt or rye flour
  3. 1/4 cup water
  4. 1 cup pureed pumpkin
  5. 3/4 cups organic cane sugar
  6. 1/2 tsp. baking soda
  7. 1/2 tsp. unrefined sea salt
  8. 1 tsp. cinnamon
Instructions
  1. Combine the starter, flour and water. Cover and let soak 6 - 24 hours.
  2. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Heat oven to 350*F.
  3. Add the remaining ingredients to the flour mixture. Mix well.
  4. Spread on the parchment lined baking sheet.
  5. Bake for 1 hour.
  6. Let cool 10 minutes.
  7. Flip the whole "cake" (leaving the parchment paper on the baking sheet.
  8. Cut into small squares (using a pizza cutter or sharp knife).
  9. Bake another 45 minutes.
  10. Allow to cool completely.
  11. Store in a sealed container at room temperature for up to a month or in the freezer for up to a year.
Just Take A Bite https://justtakeabite.com/

In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog. It will not change the cost of any products or services for you.

This post is linked to Savoring Saturdays.

Honey Sweetened Pumpkin Butter Three Ways | | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Honey Sweetened Pumpkin Butter Three Ways: SHK Post

Now that fall is here it’s time for pumpkin everything! Use this nutrient packed vegetable to create three variations on pumpkin butter. It is so easy and delicious. Your kids will love it.

Honey Sweetened Pumpkin Butter Three Ways | | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Coming up with healthy snacks can be a challenge. Kids want sweet and tasty. You want quick and nutritious.

Honey sweetened pumpkin butter is the perfect solution!

Pumpkin is not a vegetable most people eat very often. But it really is packed with nutrients. Pumpkin contains vitamin A (a lot of it!), vitamin C, potassium, copper and iron in addition to lots of phyto-nutrients. So it makes the perfect component to a healthy snack like pumpkin butter.

There are three variations of pumpkin butter – original, chocolate and sunflower. They each have a unique flavor that your kids are sure to love. And with only three or four ingredients they are all easy to make.

Honey Sweetened Pumpkin Butter Three Ways | | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

It only takes about ten minutes to make all three pumpkin butters! It is that easy. After a few minutes in the refrigerator they are ready to eat. I like to prepare them in advance. Then snack time is easy. The pumpkin butter will last up to a week in the refrigerator.

Are you ready to whip up one or all three of these tasty fall treats? Head on over to Super Healthy Kids where I show you just how easy it is. Then surprise your kids with a delicious after school treat.

Don’t forget to really add to the fun by making a batch of pumpkin spice graham crackers to go along with the pumpkin butter. Maybe homework time will go a bit smoother with a fun snack. At the very least your kids will have their mouths and bellies full of good stuff.

In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog. It will not change the cost of any products or services for you.

This post is linked to Savoring Saturdays.

Gluten Free Squash Cookies | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Gluten Free Squash Cookies: KS Post

If you are in need of a healthy breakfast, lunch or dessert gluten free squash cookies are just the thing. Easy to make. Properly prepared grains. And vegetables!

Gluten Free Squash Cookies | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

All summer long you are in control of what your kids eat and when they eat.

There is an abundance of fresh fruit to serve IF they need a little snack (not when snack time is a mandatory part of their day). Breakfasts don’t have to be made AND consumed in ten minutes in order to catch the bus. Lunches can be cooked and served warm.

Then school starts.

Mornings are chaotic getting everyone dressed and fed and out the door.

Lunches have to be simplified and packed.

It is a challenge to maintain the nutrient dense status of your kids’ food. Not to mention they are bombarded with special treats for everything from birthdays to good behavior as soon as they step foot in the door.

So as the new school year gets under way why not combine the need for nourishment with the desire for something sweet? Did I mention it is also easy?

These super simple gluten free squash cookies are portable and work for breakfast or lunch. Vegetables in your breakfast and dessert? Yes, please!

Head over to Kitchen Stewardship to find out how I make these easy and delicious cookies.

Gluten Free Squash Cookies | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Grain Free Sunbutter and Jelly Bars | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Grain Free Sunbutter and Jelly Bars

No time to make a sandwich? No problem. Grab some grain free sunbutter and jelly bars from the freezer and an allergen friendly lunch is ready in no time.

Grain Free Sunbutter and Jelly Bars | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

We’ve been back to school for exactly one week. And I’m already sick of packing lunches. Anybody else?

In all honesty I don’t mind it *too* much. But it sure is nice when I have some easy things to pack that are filling and nutritious.

Skip the nuts.

Of course I’m always conscious of allergies too. So while peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are about the easiest thing to make I don’t pack them in my daughter’s lunch (even though she is not allergic to nuts).

Recently I started using sunbutter in place of nut butters. My kids love it! I love that I don’t have to worry about them getting nuts on their baby sister when they eat it. Plus I can send it to school without potentially causing another child harm.

That means my daughter does get sunbutter sandwiches once in a while. They are easy and delicious.

Grain Free Sunbutter and Jelly Bars | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Skip the bread.

But there is something even easier!

Grain free sunbutter and jelly bars are easy to make, easy to pack and easy to eat. You get the added bonus that you don’t have to worry about making or finding decent bread! This is especially key if you are gluten, grain or anything else free.

To make the dough simply dump all of the ingredients in a bowl and mix. The “jelly” filling is just three ingredients pureed in the blender for thirty seconds.

Then pour, bake and eat.

Grain Free Sunbutter and Jelly Bars | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Skip the long lunch prep.

I like to make a big batch so I can keep a bunch in the freezer. Then packing lunch is easy and has virtually no preparation. In fact kids can pack it themselves!

A sunbutter and jelly bar paired with veggies and dip and some fresh fruit is a great lunch. Or you can really boost the nutrition factor by pairing it with a thermos of your favorite soup. My daughter loves split pea!

Grain Free Sunbutter and Jelly Bars | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Change the flavor.

Let your kids pick the jelly flavor. Strawberry is a favorite here. But raspberry, cherry and blueberry all work well.

If your kids don’t like jelly then you can make the bars without the filling. It will be like a sunbutter and honey sandwich.

Are you in need of another easy lunch component to add to your rotation? Skip the sandwich. Go for grain free sunbutter and jelly bars. They are sure to be a hit!

Don’t need to pack a lunch? Serve them for breakfast. Kids love them any time of day.

Grain Free Sunbutter and Jelly Bars | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Grain Free Sunbutter and Jelly Bars
Serves 12
A nut free bar that is easy to pack and takes the place of a sandwich.
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Bar
  1. 1/2 cup sunbutter
  2. 1/2 cup tapioca flour
  3. 2 eggs (or flax or gelatin eggs)
  4. 1/4 cup honey
  5. 1/4 cane sugar
  6. 1/2 tsp. unrefined sea salt
  7. 1/4 tsp. baking soda
Filling
  1. 1 cup fruit (strawberry, blueberry, cherry, raspberry), thawed and drained if using frozen
  2. 1 1/2 tsp. grass-fed gelatin
  3. 1 Tbsp. honey
Bar
  1. Heat oven to 350*F. Grease a 7x11 baking pan.
  2. In a large bowl combine all of the bar ingredients. Beat until well mixed.
  3. Spread half of the dough into the greased pan.
  4. Blend the filling ingredients in a blender until pureed. Pour the filling over the dough in the pan. Spread.
  5. Pour the remaining half of the dough on top of the filling.
  6. Bake for 40 minutes.
  7. Allow to cool. Cut into bars.
  8. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or in the freezer for up to one year.
Notes
  1. White rice flour can be substituted for tapioca. It will no longer be grain free.
  2. The eggs can be replaced with ground flax seeds.
  3. You can also assemble the bars by pouring all of the batter into the pan and pouring the filling on top.
  4. Any nut or seed butter will work in place of the sunbutter.
Just Take A Bite https://justtakeabite.com/
This post is linked to Savoring Saturdays.

Creamy Sprouted Red Lentil and Sausage Stew | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Creamy Sprouted Red Lentil and Sausage Stew

Start the school year with nutrient dense creamy sprouted red lentil and sausage stew. It is full of broth, vegetables and protein for a great lunch or dinner.

Creamy Sprouted Red Lentil and Sausage Stew | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

I am partnering with Bob’s Red Mill and Stonyfield for this post. I have been compensated for my time commitment to use these products. However, my opinions are entirely my own and I have not been paid to publish positive comments.

Ready or not, summer is over. The holiday has come and gone. It is back to school time for everyone.

It is also time for the weather to turn cooler and the days to be shorter.

After hot summer days it is time to return to a warm bowl of soup, freshly baked bread and hot apple cider.

Creamy Sprouted Red Lentil and Sausage Stew | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Soup is the perfect fall food. It is comforting and warm. But it will also help boost your immune system if you include lots of homemade bone broth. Just what you need for warding off illnesses in the fall.

You can go the traditional route with chicken noodle and beef vegetable soup. Or maybe spruce it up a bit with squash or split pea.

But I’ve got a new soup for you that the whole family will love. The really great thing is that it is easy to make and packed with nutrients.

Creamy Sprouted Red Lentil and Sausage Stew | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

It starts with lentils.

Sprouted red lentil and sausage stew starts with Bob’s Red Mill red lentils. They contain lots of fiber, protein and iron. It is important to sprout them first for easier digestion and absorption of nutrients. It will also allow them to cook very quickly.

If you’ve never sprouted lentils it is so easy. Just put warm water over them. That’s pretty much all there is to it.

Now add bone broth, sausage and vegetables to these colorful lentils and you’ve got an amazing soup that comes together in no time.

Looking to add even more nutrition? Toss your favorite greens in during the last few minutes of cooking (I like spinach). Then top it all off with some plain Stonyfield yogurt for creaminess and healthy fat.

Your kids will love it.

Are you worried your kids won’t be willing to try lentils? No need for concern. The lentils cook down and virtually disappear into the soup. It just looks like sausage and vegetables. But the lentils will give the soup a great texture and thickness. They make it really filling.

Creamy Sprouted Red Lentil and Sausage Stew | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Great for lunch or dinner.

You’ll want to make a big batch of sprouted red lentil and sausage stew. Have it for dinner one night. Then pack the leftovers in lunches. Simply warm it on the stove for a  minute in the morning and pack it in a thermos.

This stew also freezes well. So you can make a double batch to eat some now and freeze a meal for another busy week night or easy lunches later on.

Red lentil and sausage stew is filling enough to be your whole meal. But we like some variety. So I serve it with crackers and cheese, bread with jam or a delicious sweet bread like pumpkin, zucchini or winter spice.

Have you ever had red lentils? Are you ready to try some?

Whether you’re new to lentils or they are a staple in your pantry, this creamy sprouted red lentil and sausage stew needs to be on your menu this fall.

Creamy Sprouted Red Lentil and Sausage Stew | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Creamy Sprouted Red Lentil and Sausage Stew
Serves 6
A creamy, rich stew filled with sprouted red lentils and sausage.
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Ingredients
  1. 1/2 cup Bob's Red Mill red lentils
  2. 3 cups warm water
  3. 3 cups chicken broth
  4. 1/2 lb. ground sausage, cooked and crumbled OR precooked sausage, cut up
  5. 2 large carrots, cut up
  6. 1/2 cup sweet potato, cut up
  7. 1 small onion, cut up
  8. 1 Tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
  9. 1 tsp. unrefined sea salt
  10. 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
  11. 1/2 tsp. dried thyme
  12. 1/2 tsp. dried dill weed
  13. 1 cup plain, whole milk Stonyfield yogurt
  14. optional: 2 cups chopped greens (spinach, kale, chard)
Instructions
  1. In a small bowl combine the lentils and warm water. Let sit in a warm place or in the oven with the light on for at least 12 hours. Drain water and return to warm place for another 6 or more hours to sprout.
  2. In a large sauce pan saute the vegetables in olive oil 5 minutes.
  3. Add the broth and seasoning.
  4. Simmer 20 minutes.
  5. Add the sprouted lentils and cooked/cut up sausage.
  6. Simmer another 20 minutes.
  7. Add greens in last 3 minutes if desired.
  8. Top individual bowls with plain yogurt and stir into soup.
Just Take A Bite https://justtakeabite.com/
In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog.

This post is linked to Savoring Saturdays.

Brain Booster Milkshake | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Brain Booster Milkshake

Get the school morning started right with a brain booster milkshake. Full of protein, vitamins and minerals it will keep your kids going all day.

Brain Booster Milkshake - Nutrient-dense drink kids love!

School mornings can be hard. Get breakfast on the table. Feed the baby. Brush everyone’s teeth. Find shoes and backpacks.

You do your best to prepare and have things go smoothly. But even with good planning it is tough to always give your kids the nourishment they need before heading out the door.

Especially if you have a child like mine that eats very slowly and ends up often only managing a few bites of breakfast.

To make sure she starts her day the right way I created my brain booster milkshake.

Brain Booster Milkshake - Nutrient-dense drink kids love!

Are Milkshakes Healthy?

This milkshake is packed with some nutritional powerhouses.

  • raw milk – easy to digest protein, calcium and vitamins
  • raw pastured egg yolks – B vitamins that are critical for brain function and concentration
  • probiotics – for gut health and boosting the immune system
  • grass-fed collagen – easy to digest protein and important amino acids
  • maple syrup – carbohydrates for energy and trace minerals
  • unrefined sea salt – trace minerals

I usually serve the milkshake with something else like a homemade granola bar or even dinner leftovers! But even if she doesn’t take a single bite of her breakfast I know she’s going to be fueled for the morning as long as she drinks her brain booster milkshake.

This is a really good option for kids with oral SPD and chewing problems. A milkshake goes down pretty quickly. It is also easy on the digestive system. The nutrients are very easy to absorb and utilize.

Brain Booster Milkshake - Nutrient-dense drink kids love!

One of the key components is the raw, pastured egg yolk. Have you ever read about them? Though often deemed as unhealthy or bad for your heart the opposite is actually true. And eaten raw (as long as they are pastured) the nutrients are not damaged and are easy to absorb.

Egg yolks are amazing little packages of nutrients, specifically B vitamins that are essential for your child’s brain development and ability to focus. They contain other nutrients such as choline (necessary for methylation), selenium (great for the thyroid) and biotin (helps with blood sugar regulation – perfect for breakfast!).

Milkshake for Breakfast or Lunch

I sometimes put milkshakes in my daughter’s lunch too. She struggles to eat much lunch at school. There just isn’t enough time for her, and she’s busy talking. But she usually comes home with an empty cup!

This is also great for kids going through orthodontic work. The day after adjustments their mouth can be very sore and chewing can be a challenge. A milkshake is always in my daughter’s lunch the day after her expander gets adjusted. I tell her that even if she can’t eat anything she should be sure to drink her brain booster milkshake.

Brain Booster Milkshake - Nutrient-dense drink kids love!

Healthy Chocolate Milkshake

The base milkshake recipe is vanilla. But you can create other flavors too. My kids love when I add a bit of cocoa powder or carob powder for a chocolate shake.

Add some strawberries from your freezer stash for a strawberry shake. Any berry or even cherries will work.

Sometimes we really get creative and add mint extract. It tastes like mint ice cream (my kids’ favorite!).

If you can’t have dairy, coconut milk is a great substitute! Any milk alternative will work.

Serve it in a fun cup with a straw or in a sealed cup to pack in a lunch box.

Whether you serve it for breakfast, lunch or both you’ll know your child is getting essential nutrients with a brain booster milkshake. All they have to know is they get something delicious to drink!

Get your kids excited about breakfast. What flavor do you think they’ll like best?

Brain Booster Milkshake - Nutrient-dense drink kids love!

Brain Booster Milkshake
Serves 1
A delicious shake perfect for breakfast or lunch that will give your kids the nutrients they need to perform their best.
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Ingredients
  1. 1 cup raw milk or coconut milk
  2. 1 - 2 raw pastured egg yolks
  3. 1 Tbsp. grade B maple syrup
  4. 1/4 tsp. unrefined sea salt
  5. 2 tsp. grass-fed collagen
  6. 1/2 capsule preferred probiotics
  7. 1/2 capsule preferred multi-vitamin
  8. optional: 2 tsp. carob powder or cocoa powder OR 1/4 cup berries or cherries
  9. optional: 1/2 tsp. organic vanilla OR 1/4 tsp. organic mint extract
Instructions
  1. Combine all of the ingredients in a blender or a cup with a lid.
  2. Blend or shake until well combined.
  3. Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to serve.
Just Take A Bite https://justtakeabite.com/
In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog.

This post is linked to Savoring Saturdays.

Lemon Elderberry Gummies | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Lemon Elderberry Gummies

Help ward off the back-to-school illnesses with a fun, fruity treat. Lemon elderberry gummies not only taste great, they are good for you!

Lemon Elderberry Gummies | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

For many school is already back in session. For others it is only a week away. Either way there is one thing on every parent’s mind when school starts.

How long until the kids start getting sick?

As kids start spending more time inside and around their friends it is inevitable that germs will spread. There are many natural remedies to help your child’s immune system stay strong and avoid some illness.

One simple remedy is elderberry syrup. It helps ward off viruses and minimizes their severity. My kids love taking it right off the spoon.

Lemon Elderberry Gummies | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Make it fun.

Another great way to add elderberry syrup into your diet is adding it to gummies. Kids don’t even know they are doing something good for themselves by eating these fun, fruity candies.

The lemon adds some vitamin C along with the elderberry for even more immune support.

These gummies are also packed with grass-fed gelatin that is helpful for healing the gut and supporting the whole body. Plus it provides easy-to-digest pure protein.

Great for everyone.

I like to serve lemon elderberry gummies for breakfast and snacks or pack them in lunches for my oldest. They are great to have around for the younger kids as well. Even toddlers love to munch on gummies!

No need to buy fruit snacks. Most of them are filled with artificial flavors and colors.

Even if you buy the ogranic/natural varieties they still contain “natural flavor” which is actually almost the same thing as artificial flavor. And for kids like mine it has the same effect on their mental clarity and behavior.

Lemon Elderberry Gummies | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Fast food.

Although homemade gummies may sound like a daunting snack to make it is actually very simple. Lemon elderberry gummies go from the pan to the fridge in about five minutes.

Simply mix the ingredients, heat and pour. That’s all there is to it.

You can get the kids involved with this project by letting them pick the shapes. See what candy molds your grocery store carries or buy some online. I like to use silicon molds so I don’t have to worry about putting hot liquid in plastic. Plus gummies are much easier to remove from the silicon molds.

If you don’t have any molds you can simply pour the warm liquid into a glass pan. When the lemon elderberry gummies are gelled you can cut them into squares or any shape you like.

No lemon juice on hand? You can use blueberry, cherry or lime juice instead. Try all four varieties and see what your kids like best.

Are you looking for easy, healthy snacks for school lunches? Are you looking for easy ways to help keep your kids healthy?

Lemon elderberry gummies are just what you’re looking for! Fruity, fun and healthy. Whip up a batch to start the school year right.

Lemon Elderberry Gummies | Homemade Dutch Apple Pie

Lemon Elderberry Gummies
Yields 25
A fun, fruity treat to help ward off colds.
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Ingredients
  1. 1 cup organic lemon juice
  2. 2 Tbsp. elderberry syrup
  3. 1/2 cup honey
  4. 4 Tbsp. grass-fed gelatin (NOT collagen)
  5. 1/4 tsp. unrefined sea salt
Instructions
  1. In a small saucepan combine the lemon juice, elderberry syrup, honey and salt. Whisk to combine.
  2. Add the gelatin and whisk to combine.
  3. Let sit one minute.
  4. Heat over low-medium heat, stirring frequently, until mixture is warm and has become liquid again.
  5. Pour mixture into molds or a glass pan (smaller pan for thicker gummies, larger pan for thinner).
  6. Refrigerate until firm, about thirty minutes.
  7. Remove from molds or cut into shapes.
  8. Store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Just Take A Bite https://justtakeabite.com/

In order for me to support my blogging activities, I may receive monetary compensation or other types of remuneration for my endorsement, recommendation, testimonial and/or link to any products or services from this blog.

This post is linked to Savoring Saturdays.