Organic Paleo Stir Fry
Happy Monday! This is my version of  a stir fry - simple & 100% Paleo.  It is a colourful
and vibrant dish combined with beautiful flavours.  The prep work is the hardest part about making this dish.  Once you place everything in the wok, it's smooth sailing from there!

Ingredients:
 1 Red Bell Pepper

1 Broccoli Crown
2 Cloves Garlic
Snap Peas
1 Carrot
2 Bok Choy

2 Organic Steaks
1/2 White Onion
Ginger
Soy Sauce
2 Tbsp. Olive Oil

Process:
1. Wash thoroughly and chop all vegetables.  Set aside.
2. Chop up steak into thin slices.  Season with salt & pepper.
3.  In a large wok, add the olive oil and set on medium heat.
4. Add in the steak and cook halfway.
5.  Add the vegetables in and cook until desired consistency.
6.  Add soy sauce

Bon Appetite!

Spirulina Supplements

Happy Friday! It's been an incredibly damp week, but the arrival of the weekend
is highly refreshing.  I'm sure many people have heard about Spirulina; it has gained
quite a bit of popularity these days.  For those of you who haven't, let me enlighten you!
Personally, I take one tablet of Spirulina everyday.  Not only is it reaping with health benefits, but for people who are iron deficient and borderline anaemic, like myself, it is rich in non-heme iron content.  Lack of iron is a common mineral deficiency, and taking Spirulina daily, in combination with rich heme iron foods and Vitamin C will highly increase your iron levels.   Let us dissect this blue-green algae that grows in fresh water lakes and see why it has become so well-received and celebrated.

Spirulina's Multitude of Benefits:
1. Spirulina contains 8 essential amino acids making it a complete protein.
It is approximately 60-65% protein by dry weight, and the proteins are biologically complete.

2.  Contains seven enzymatic pigments:  Chlorophyll, Phycocyanin, Porphyrin, Phycoerythin, Tetrapyrrole, Phytonadione and Carotenoids.  These rich pigments 

are responsible for synthesizing enzymes and are biochemically important to the body.
3. Spirulina is overflowing with minerals that are vital to optimal health, such as
Potassium, Calcium, Phosphorus, Manganese, Magnesium, Iron, Selenium and Zinc.
4. Rich in Vitamin content: Vitamin B (all), Biotin, Pantothenic Acid, Folic Acid, Inocitol,
Niacin, Vitamin K, Vitamin D, Vitamin A and Vitamin E. 

5. Antioxidant properties and highly alkaline. 

6. Gama linolenic acid (GLA), Omega 3-6- and 9's.
7. Removes heavy metals, dioxins and toxic metals from the body.
8. Promotes regeneration of damaged liver cells.
9. Supportive of liver, brain and kidney function.
10. Increases energy levels and overall endurance.
11. One of the most richest and complete food sources in the world.
12. Aids in fighting inflammation and prevention of certain diseases such as heart disease.
13. Alleviates allergy symptoms
14. Great source of plant-based protein for Vegans and Vegetarians.
15. Boosts the immune system, lowers cholesterol, and
improves memory and digestion.
16. With its high content of Vitamin A and Vitamin E, Spirulina helps to beautify
the skin and improves elasticity.
17. Wards off free radicals

This is just a list that is only touching the surface of the miraculous benefits
this potent nutrient-dense blue-green algae contains.  Whether you take it in
capsule or powder form, it will provide your body with the majority of
Vitamins, Minerals, Enzymes and Antioxidants needed for overall optimal health!

Bacon & Sautéed Greens
100% Paleo & GF

Whoever said dinner had to be bland and uneventful? Bacon is the answer to all your
problems! The bacon provides you with your protein, accompanied by its sweet and savoury
flavours.  Rainbow chard is nutrient-rich and excellent sources of Vitamins A, C and K, amongst a myriad of  other health benefits.  Swiss chard belongs to the Chenopod family and has a rich and unique content of phytonutrients, such as epoxyxanthophyll carotenoids.  A Paleo diet has a variety of health benefits.  It eliminates most carbohydrates, especially grains leaving protein and vegetables as the base.

Ingredients:
-1 bunch rainbow chard
-1 garlic clove

- Salt

- Pepper

- 1 tbsp. Extra virgin olive oil
- 2 Strips bacon
(Nitrate free - No artificials - Hormone free - Antibiotic Free)

Directions:
1. Turn on the oven to: Bake - 350 degrees.
2. Once it's reached it's temperature, put the bacon
on a cooking tray and bake until golden brown or until
desired texture.
3. Wash the chard and chop the bottom of the stems off.
4. Chop up the clove of garlic, finely.
5. Heat up the olive oil in your frying pan,  medium heat.
6. Get the timing right.  The chard will only take approx. 10 minutes to cook.
7. Add in your rainbow chard and garlic.
8.  Lightly sprinkle the salt and pepper over your greens.
9. Mix occasionally with your spatula.
10. Voila! 

Paleo Diet Benefits:
> Decreases insulin secretion
> Improves glucose tolerance
>Improves risk factors for heart disease, LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.
> Elimination of sugars, toxins, grains, artificial flavours, processed foods,
preservatives, and additives.
> Improves gut flora which is important for overall digestion.
> It's rich in essential fatty acids.  The paleo diet has a healthy ratio of Omega
6 to Omega 3 fatty acids
> Balanced blood sugar levels.
>Anti-inflammatory
> Provides the body with sustainable energy.
> Reduced cravings due to high intake of healthy fats, feeling fuller for longer.
> Increased vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
> Improved sleep patterns.
> Reduces metabolic syndrome diseases.
> Improves the overall quality of your health.

-- Enjoy --

Carrot Beet & Ginger Salad

I like to call this colours in a bowl.  Salad is a staple in my diet and
it is something my body craves. I appreciate the convenience
and simplicity of this salad.  The sweetness of the beets & carrots,

the crunchiness of the seeds, and the spiciness of the ginger gives it a rich
combination.  Beets contain unique phytonutrients, specifically betaine, which
promote anti-inflammatory benefits, enhances performance, and protects internal
organs.   This detoxifying bowl is rich in vitamins, antioxidants, Omega-6 fatty acids
and minerals.  

Ingredients:

1 Organic beet

1 Organic carrot

Ginger
Organic Apple Cider Vinegar
(unpasteurized & unfiltered)
Extra virgin olive oil
Raw pumpkin seeds
Raw sunflower seeds

Steps
1. Wash the beet and carrot thoroughly.
2.  Peel the beet and grate both the beet and carrot into a bowl.
3.  Peel the ginger and grate.
4. Sprinkle with sunflower and pumpkin seeds.
5. Drizzle in olive oil and apple cider vinegar.

Gluten Free - Plant Based - Raw - Organic.

All Organic Produce

Oh, the many shades of green! I wanted to dissect the importance of a pesticide

and hormone-free diet.  More and more consumers are choosing to go the

organic route for a myriad of reasons.  One reason being is that organic is higher-quality

and more nutrient dense with the absence of harmful pesticides, residues and antibiotics.

Organic foods are grown in environmentally friendly conditions and contain higher

amounts of polyphenals and phytonutrients.  Organic produce has a higher nutritional value,
however it is more about the avoidance of consuming pesticides, herbicides,

insecticides, antibiotics, fertilizers and ionizing radiation.  Studies and research both show
that organic produce contains higher nutrients and antioxidants and less heavy metals compared to conventional crops.  When buying anything organic, make sure that it is certified by the COR
(Candian Organic Regime) or USDA (U.S Department of Agriculture) which both verify the application
of organic standards.  

Tuscan Kale:
1. Apart of the cuciferous family, Kale is high in antioxidants which destroy free radicals.
2. Contains vitamins A, C, K, Folate Acid (B Vitamin), Alpha-linolenic acid (Omega 3).
3. Contains a few different types of minerals such as phosphorus, potassium, zinc and calcium.


Broccoli:
1. Contains  an organosulfur compound such as sulforaphane, a potent anticancer agent.
2. Balances hormone levels and contains phytochemicals, reducing age-related diseases.
3. Indole-3-carbinol (I3C) is present in broccoli, which is a substance which may stimulate
healthy hormone production.

 Celery:
1. Celery contains high levels of Vitamin C and flavonoids. boosting the immune system.
2. Celery has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and calming effects on the body.
3. The phytonutrients found in celery is able to reduce oxidative damage to
blood vessel walls and body fats.

  Garlic: 
1.  Helps to decrease blood pressure and the allyl sulfur compounds found in
garlic aid to fight cancer and boost antioxidant status.
2. Possesses antibacterial properties and beneficial for heart health.
3. Garlic contains high amounts of manganese, vitamin C and B6.

 Carrots:
1.  High concentrations of beta-carotene, a good source of Vitamin A.

2.  Carrots contain polyacetylenes and two important polyacetylenes are

falcarinol and farcarindiol which can inhibit the growth of colon cancer cells.

3. Carrots have a variety of antioxidant properties such as carotenoids, hydroxycinnamic

acids and anthocyaninds.

Swiss Chard:
1. Contains Iodine, Calcium, and Alpha-glucosidase, an enzyme used to break down
carbohydrates into simple sugars.
2. Betalins, found in chard, aids in detoxification support and has anti-inflammatory
properties.
3. Vitamin K levels are extremely high in Swiss Chard.

 Green Pepper:
1. Great sources of vitamin C and E.
2. Contains many phytonutrients such as Flavonoids, Carotenoids
and Hydroxycinnamic Acids.
3. Contains fiber and certain enzymes such as lutein which protects the eyes
and prevents macular degeneration.

"Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food." - Hippocrates.

Sweet Potato Soup

I hope everyone is enjoying the rusting flavours of Autumn.  As the days grow

cooler and shorter, my palate starts to crave textured and savoury soups! Yesterday,

I was set on making butternut squash soup, but I managed to pick up frozen organic

sweet potatoes instead and only realized it after I got home.  So, sweet potato soup
it was and it exceeded my expectations bursting with its rich flavours.  Completely
satisfied upon consumption, I nearly licked the bowl! I'm loving the selection of root
vegetables that Fall is providing.  What I love about this soup recipe is its simplicity.
Simple ingredients with bold flavours equals one scrumptious bowl of comfort in 

which will most likely be devoured within minutes.  Not only is sweet potato indescribably
delicious,but your body will also reap the benefits of the nutrients it contains, particularly
high in beta-carotene due to it's orange pigments. I hope your taste buds scream with fulfilment after consuming this soup as much as mine did!

Ingredients:

298g Sweet potatoes
1 Garlic clove
1 small white onion
½ Can of Vegetable stock
Extra virgin olive oil
Salt
Pepper

Method:
1. Peel and cut the sweet potato into cubes.
2. Peel and chop the garlic clove.
3. Peel and chop the white onion into chunks.  I know, your eyes
will be burning while tears are streaming down your face.  Keep going,
the pain is nearly over.
4.  After you've completed the prep work, drizzle some olive oil in the pan.
Medium heat.
5. Place your sweet potato, garlic and onions in the pan and cook 
for approximately 10 - 15 minutes until the sweet potatoes soften.
6.  Combine ½ the can of vegetable stock into the pan.
7.  Let it absorb into the sweet potatoes. Cook for another 10 - 15 minutes.
8. Blend all ingredients in a food processor.  Blend until smooth.
9. Pour into a bowl, and voilà! 

--

Enjoy!

Autumn provides us with an abundance of seasonal harvest.  Our insides are comforted by root and starchy vegetables, soups and stews.  As we change gear from warmer to cooler days, I thought it would be valuable to put together a list of seasonal vegetables that will satisfy the taste buds this Autumn.  There is nothing more comforting than falling onto your couch and watching the autumn leaves fall while slurping a big bowl of soup.  Here is a list of fresh seasonal vegetables in which you can do a multitude of recipes with and really get creative in your cooking space.

Seasonal Vegetables

Artichokes

Arugula

Beets

Belgian endive

Broccoli

Brussels sprouts

Cabbage

Carrots

Caluiflower

Celeriac/celery root

Celery

Chard

Chicories

Chilies

Cranberries

Curly endive

Edamame

Eggplant

Escarole

Fennel

Figs

Garlic

Grapes

Herbs

Horseradish

Kale

Kohlrabi

Leeks

Lemongrass

Lettuce

Limes

Musrhooms

Okra

Onions

Parsnips

Pears

Peppers

Persimmons

Pomegranates

Potatoes

Pumpkins

Quinces

Radicchio

Radishes
Rhubarb

Rutabagas

Shallots

Shelling beans

Spinach

Sweet potatoes

Tomatillos

Turnips

Winter Squash
Watercress

Rustic Autumn Roast

As the days grow cooler and their is a gradual shift in colours,
we transition into Autumn leaving those endless Summer nights behind.
Autumn is a season of comfort accompanied by layered clothing, booties,
knee-high socks, and over-sized sweaters.  We tend to start craving different
foods that are in season as the seasons change.  This autumn-themed
rustic dish is a good way to kick-start the air-chilled season.  It is a blend of
root vegetables, spices and protein... very warming for your insides and completely
Paleo.  As we enjoy Autumn's harvest, I hope you enjoy this comforting dish on a cool Autumn's day accompanied by good friends, laughs,mingling and of course, wine.


Ingredients
1. 3 White turnips
2.  4-5 Carrots
3. 1 Garlic bulb
4. 1 Purple onion
5. 1 Large yam
6. 2 Spicy Italian pork sausages
(Nitrate & Preservative free!)
7.  Extra virgin olive oil
8. Salt
9. Pepper
10. 1 Dried rosemary sprig

Method:
1.  Preheat the oven to 360 degrees.
2.  Prep work - wash your turnips, carrots and yams thoroughly.
Chop into bite-sized pieces.  Note: I left the skin on for all these
root vegetables because they are organic and more nutritious
this way.  I recommend peeling if you purchase non-organic
ingredients.
3. Peel your bulb of garlic.
4.  Chop up the spicy Italian pork sausage.
5. Chop up the rosemary leaves finely.
6.  Chop up the purple onion.
7.  Combine all the flavour-bursting vegetables,
rosemary, sausage and place in a large bowl.
8.  Drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, salt and pepper.
9. Once all ingredients are evenly coated, place on a large baking pan.
10.  Spread out all ingredients evenly and roast for approximately 1 hour
or more until desired consistency.



Serve, be merry and enjoy! This dish is just as delicious cold, if not more.  The
flavours and spices infuse together as more time passes.

Cheers!