Christmas Note

During this Christmas season, we cannot help but reflect on this past year. 

Almost everyone I have spoken with has been impacted in some way by covid. 

Many of you have shared your stories, your struggles, your reflections and your triumphs over these last months.  For that, I will always be grateful. 

You have inspired me with your fortitude, your insights and all the ways you have found moments of joy even in trying times. 

This Christmas as I reflect on Christ, His Birth, Life and Ministry, I am reminded of the good news that Jesus came to earth in the midst of difficult times. I am encouraged by His example, as one minister P. Rhodes put it in his newsletter… the love of God is the love of neighbor. 

Community areas of need are many, including the Tarrant Area Food Bank at https://tafb.org. Another inspiring meal ministry is World Central Kitchen at https://wck.org. 

Both have extended programs including two of my favorites, teaching healthy cooking and planting gardens. 

As we prepare for Christmas, from my home to yours, I hope for you moments of blessing, joy, lasting peace and lest we forget good great food. 

In Gratitude for Each of You, In Prayer for All Across this Earth, Debra

P.S. I found a new and intriguing recipe using millet grain. It’s a warm and comfy Millet Pilaf with Roasted Carrots, Garbanzo Beans and Warm Spices. For recipe see: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/463589355399460402/. 

If you make it, I’d love to hear what you think :)

Millet is one of the oldest of grains, grown primarily in India. In asian cultures, millet is known as the queen of grains. It has a cooling nature so would be good when working on inflammatory conditions. It has a nutty and slight sweet salty flavor. It is thought to strengthen the kidney, benefit stomach, spleen and pancreas and has a good amino acid profile. I made it with leftover rice and wound up using less broth. It’s going into my “go to” recipe box. . 

Sheet-Pan Meal Ideas - so easy and definitely less mess. Definitely share if you have one you like. 

Here’s a few ideas for a busy Christmas week.  

http://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/278874/sheet-pan-chili-lime-salmon-with-potatoes-peppers/

http://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/253045/potato-kale-hash-with-eggs/ - if using cheese, aim to buy organic.

https://www.thekitchn.com/10-vegetarian-sheet-pan-dinners-meal-plan-22972838 - you know me, I am always looking where I can add the pea or bean… this recipe is a great place to add your favorite. 

By now, you probably know I am making my same Favorite Cranberry Sauce Recipe from Alicia Silverstones cookbook this year. Bonus, organic cranberries are on sale this time of year.  Stock up for yummy brain boosting berry smoothies and cranberry sauce dollops on so many things from sandwiches to fish. 

4 cups washed raw cranberries, 1/4 cup maple syrup ( add dash more if like), Juice from 1 orange. That's it…. easy.  Add all to a saucepan and cook over medium heat, stirring often. As mixture comes to boil, reduce heat, cover, simmer gently until the berries pop and sauce thickens. I love to serve it warm right off the stove.  

Have you tried the grapefruit from whole foods market yet this year? My hubby, our grapefruit guru, has decided these are the best ones in town this year. We of course buy the bag. My Ms. Santa secret, I am putting new grapefruit knives in his stocking. 

Ok, Just One More Add… 

My daughter was talking about Angela Liddon’s “Oh She Glows” cookbooks, have you seen them? I picked up one for her and yum, the recipes look delicious. I’ll be watching Half Price bookstore to pick one up for myself :) I’d love to hear about your current favorite cookbook or recipe.