Healthy Choices, Healthy Focus

JK Rowling & Me On Failure

Sat, 19 May 2012 16:16:00 GMT

Although friends and family believe that I have ambitiously high standards for being healthy, I'll admit these standards are not always easy to keep.

I fail constantly, even if it's just with little things, which seem like big things to me. After all, being healthy is a big part of my identity, my work. Failure in this area is like I'm failing myself and my life purpose to help people with the very things I need help with myself at times.

At first, I was inspired to be healthy because with different food choices I found relief from debilitating pain that I thought I would have to live with the rest of my life. Even so, just because I know "the answer" as to what foods to eat doesn't mean I always stick to it. I have struggled over the years with my food choices in social situations and with temptation at every corner.

One thing I have learned for sure is that I need continual inspiration. Not just with recipes, but in my life. The most accessible external source of inspiration I've found comes from inspiring quotes and videos. When I feel stuck, it's important that my brain registers the fact that I am not alone and that there is another way out of some uncomfortable experience, even if I can't see it in the moment. Inspiration helps me with this.

I wanted to share with you my latest favorite inspiration, which comes from a wonderful video of the 2008 Harvard commencement speech given by JK Rowling, the author of the über-successful Harry Potter book series. Every time I listen to her words of wisdom I find something new to enjoy. I hope you enjoy it too.

Your stories and comments inspire me - so please tell me, what's yours? We all have wisdom to share and I hope that we can inspire each other. Whether you want to share what has inspired you or you have a question, I encourage you to write in the comments below. I would absolutely love to hear from you. Thank you and enjoy the rest of your day.

For a copy of the transcript to her address, please click on this link:

http://harvardmagazine.com/2008/06/the-fringe-benefits-failure-the-importance-imagination

What I Learned From Seeing Chopra & Oprah Live

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 02:49:00 GMT

Yesterday I was fortunate enough to see Oprah Winfrey interview Deepak Chopra live at Radio City Music Hall in New York City. Seeing Oprah live in person, I could sense that her vibrant energy and enthusiasm were sincere. To me, she is one of TV's most shining examples of someone who knows who she is and is living out her purpose.

Deepak Chopra has truly mastered some of the simplest yet hardest questions we can ask about ourselves and spirituality. Watching him tackle and explain tough matters with ease and grace was really impressive. I was truly in awe of the power of being in their vicinity and seeing them together on stage.

One of the things I valued the most from being in the audience was learning the 7 Questions To Lead You To Your Soul Profile, as told by Chopra. After he rattled off these questions - too quickly for any of us to write down - he had requests from high up in the stands to repeat them. We all knew they were key to helping us to more deeply understand ourselves and what we're here to do.

Oprah said it took her 2 days to answer the first question, "Who am I?". At first, I thought that had to be an exaggeration. But then she quipped, that she didn't start out answering with the obvious, "I'm Oprah Winfrey". She explained - and I agree with her - that the "real" answer to the question, is not about one's career or credentials. It's also not even about playing a role such as a wife, mother or father.

In the past, this question would have totally stumped me and I would have felt embarrassed, even just to myself. It would bring up so much anxiety and feelings of inadequacy because I focused on stuff that I used to compare myself with other more "successful" people.

So I got my first "Aha'gasm" (a term coined on this show;) this morning before getting out of bed while contemplating the fact that it took Oprah two days to answer "Who am I?". Thoughts started coming to me quickly with my own answers. It was super early but I was excited; I jumped up and started effortlessly handwriting 15 pages of my answer plus lots of other stuff too into my journal (I never made it to the other questions). It seemed like the whole Chopra/Oprah experience unlocked something in me that had been begging to come out for years. It was like I realized for the first time - without the chains of my self-doubt - that I don't need to hide who I am or what I'm good at any more. I am enough, as is.

Freedom!

Pondering "Who am I?" before now was such a friggin drag. It inevitably came with the pressure of defending the ebbs and flows of my life and career. No wonder I evaded answering the question before! This time, my pen started to flow with what I believe are my character strengths and the kinds of things I've been able to do my whole life without a whole lot of effort. Why this was so hard for me before? I was wearing such dark sunglasses of self-doubt and self-imposed harsh judgement that I couldn't see beyond them.

It occurred to me while I was writing that answering this question might also mean contemplating the kinds of traits that I want to be remembered for once I am gone. The obvious advantage is that I get to write the story of me NOW in a way that really reflects the lighter side of me, not the side that hopes others think I'm some kind of "perfect". Bah! This way of approaching this question gives me way more freedom to be me, and is way more real.

I am so grateful for having the chance to see that show live - it gave me so much more than I bargained for. No need for further delay, here are the 7 Questions To Lead You To Your Soul Profile.

NOTE: I encourage you to pause after reading each line, don't just rush down the list. That way, the intensity of each question will really sink in and get you primed for contemplating each one on a deeper level:

1. Who am I?

2. What do I want?

3. What's my purpose in this life?

4. What sort of contribution do I want to make?

5. What are my unique skills?

6. Who are my heroes?

7. What is a meaningful relationship—what do I expect from one, and what do I give?

What do you think of these questions? Have they ever stumped you or do you feel clear about your life and your mission. Please share - I'd love to know your thoughts!

Joel Salatin Is At It Again: American Meat

Sun, 04 Sep 2011 15:43:00 GMT

Anybody who has seen Food Inc. or Fresh will recognize straight-talkin' farmer Joel Salatin. He's funny, outspoken, and knows his facts cold. So if you haven't seen him yet, you'll likely won't forget him once you have.

I'm hoping that just like Food Inc. and Fresh, we'll be hearing more hubaloo about his new film, American Meat. In it, he and other sustainability straight-talkers make a very convincing point about how old fashioned farming methods deliver better quality foods that taste better, add more jobs to the economy, and allow farmers a good living.

Check out the trailer below:

AMERICAN MEAT TRAILER from Leave It Better on Vimeo.

Screenings have already started on the East Coast. Check out their website for one coming near you:
http://www.americanmeatfilm.com/

Life's Little Luxuries: Rose Scented Bath Salts

Sun, 21 Aug 2011 04:42:00 GMT

Make unwinding after a long day an indulgence with a bath of heavenly scented sea salts by Lotus Love Beauty. I just recently indulged with their sweetly scented Jasmine and Rose bath salts and completely let go of my stresses of the day.

They have a whole line of products in addition to their bath salts with fabulous fragrances that I never tire of - soaps, oils, lotions and candles - that are perfect for gift-giving to someone special or yourself. I find all of their scents alluring - there isn't one I wouldn't like (rare indeed!).

All of their products are handmade in small batches with pure and exotic oils and non-toxic ingredients; the quality is apparent with each scented use. As a company, they give a portion of their proceeds back to communities in need through The Shanti Project. Now that's an indulgence that makes you feel good and give back at the same time.

You can find Lotus Love Beauty products in San Francisco at Crystal Way on Market Street in the Castro or online here.

Gorgeous, Sun-Kissed Skin Without The Burn

Tue, 26 Jul 2011 04:58:00 GMT

Want your face to have that sun-kissed glow without the burn?

Check out my newest little beauty secret - tinted moisturizer with SPF 30 by Juice Beauty. It evens out your skin tone and imparts a slight luminescence that makes your face glow beautifully.

This is how to make sure the color goes on evenly: Apply a dime-size dollop into the palm of your hand. Rub together to cover the insides of both hands then pat all over face, neck and decollete. Rub it in - being careful to only pat it in around the eyes - and voila! Glowing, sun-kissed skin.

You'll like what you see - and your friends will notice a very natural looking improvement - without doing anything drastically different to your routine. It comes in three shades: sheer (no color), sand (what I use) and tan.

Juice Beauty organic skincare products are free of a lot of harsh chemicals we know to avoid (parabens, etc.) and are available nationwide at health food stores, spas, Amazon, Pharmaca and Whole Foods Markets.

P.S. At Whole Foods you can ask for a sample to try before you buy!

What's In Your Basket?

Wed, 13 Jul 2011 20:24:00 GMT

There's no doubt about it ~ an integral part of what makes a healthy body is healthy food.

That's why it's so important to question where your food comes from. Even at places like Whole Foods, who is trying to get better at sourcing local ingredients, there's nothing like talking to the produce guy/gal who knows the farmer who grew the beets you're about to buy.

I grew up in the Detroit suburbs and as far as my parents know, the best place to shop was at our local Kroger supermarket. My parents told stories at the dinner table about when they were growing up how they used to go shopping at the baker, the butcher, the cheesemonger but that the supermarket was a game-changer. Mom would go on about how chicken actually had flavor and that on any given night most people made pork roast.

Back in the '70's when we were growing up, my mom had very little interaction with anybody at the supermarket during her weekly shopping trips, as do most people now. Still to this day, most Americans are so disconnected with where our food comes from. To many, this may not seem like a problem...until you get the runaround with the healthcare system (hey, that cured me!). That's why if you're like me and are open to the fact that better food is a big part of the solution to our healthcare woes, you have to question where your food comes from.

That's why my favorite place to shop - outside of my own garden and the local farmers' market - is at Bi-Rite Market in San Francisco. It's a true goldmine of fresh, healthy, DELICIOUS food. I don't know what I would do without it!

Every employee at Bi-Rite puts their heart and soul into sourcing and knowing about the very best foods and ingredients they sell. Their butchers know the farmers that provide their meat. They also know the fishmongers that bring in their local, sustainable fish. They know how to select the freshest fruits and vegetables and which farm they came from AND how far it is from the city. They know several tasty ways to cook different cuts of meat, types of fish or veggies too - all you have to do is ask.

That's right - just ask! No need to be afraid or stumble around how to make that rib roast - you can ask someone at Bi-Rite knows what they're talking about and cares enough to give you the right answer! Best of all, they are inspired to continue to educate themselves on what quality and types of ingredients are truly healthy and they strive to provide it in everything they sell. Dang, if you live in San Francisco you simply have to shop at this place at least once!

That's why I'm excited to endorse Bi-Rite's new book coming out with recipes and tips on how to shop wisely, which you can pre-order now. Check out the video below, and if you haven't already, by all means check out the store! Enjoy and let me know what your favorite place is to shop.

Bi-Rite market is at 3639 18th Street between Dolores & Guerrero in the Mission District of San Francisco. They are open from 9-9 seven days a week. (415) 241-9760

My Foodie Idol is At It Again!

Thu, 19 May 2011 15:05:00 GMT

Well before I became a healthy foodie, I was a Gourmet magazine groupie.

Recipes for how to make to-die-for pasta carbonara or luscious mocha brownies would make my eyes light up and run to the grocery store. In my mind, Ruth Reichl sported superstar status, as a former restaurant reviewer for the New York Times in the '90s, Editor of Gourmet magazine, and heartfelt food memoir author.

Even while I'm gluten- and dairy-free and eating a lot healthier these days, I still love perusing pages of gorgeous food pictures and their accompanying recipes. I love the love that goes into creating these recipes.

The few years up until Gourmet shut down in 2009, I was pleasantly surprised to see articles on current food issues, including the horrors of factory farming and the joys and trials of farmers entrenched in the back-to-farm movement. I wish that the other high profile food magazines that exist today would discuss those issues while featuring all of what we love, delicious food. Needless to say, I've been waiting patiently to see what Ruth would be up to next.

Well, I finally found out. Ruth is now involved with Gilt Taste, a spin-off of the online shopping site, Gilt Group. Gilt Taste is not supported by ads, rather, by the sales of artisanal, handcrafted food items that meet Ruth's discerning taste buds and sustainability qualifications. The site features the stories of people who create and grow food with recipe photos of such beauty and brilliancy that you will want to run out to get the ingredients to make them.

After all, the idea is to actually cook!

So peruse Gilt Taste and tell me what you think about it.

Cotton Candy Go-Gurt. No, I'm Not Kidding.

Wed, 13 Apr 2011 20:10:00 GMT

Have you seen this in your local supermarket? Cotton Candy flavored go-gurt tubes - yes, that's meant to be goat yogurt - that sail from your freezer right into your child's lunchbox. Puh-leeeze. My Greek heritage has been shaken to the core, my friends.

This weekend, check out the Farmers' Market at the Ferry Building where you and your family can experience goat products as they are intended to be enjoyed at the Goat Festival.

Redwood Hill Farm will have baby goats on display in the South Driveway (how cute! for kids & adults!), free samples of yummy goat products (mmm...) and you'll be able to talk face to face with producers on everything goat related.

Now that's one way to "get your goat"!

Saturday, April 16, 2011
10:00 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.
San Francisco Ferry Building
Embarcadero
South Driveway Entrance
Cooking demonstrations by local chefs to follow in kitchen area.

Stop That Noise, Brother!

Mon, 09 May 2011 14:28:00 GMT

Sometimes you just wanna show off when someone you love is doing something so entertaining that they totally enjoy.

My big brother Bill is a self-taught, drumming musical genius who could never get enough of Rush in the '80s. Here he's just warming up with a buddy who happened to have a camcorder handy.

He started in the kitchen, of course. Mom's pots and pans were the precursor to what you'll see in the following video. Every sibling is different, of course. I guess I found my kitchen calling in a whole different way...

Workout Tip: Easy, Good Habits

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 19:37:00 GMT

Ever miss a workout? (Na, never, right?).

Because life can get hectic at home or on the road, I have found it invaluable to keep a monthly calendar just for my exercise routines.

Unlike prior years, I didn't carry my workout calendar habit forward for 2011 until I realized just how much I really missed the feeling of accomplishment I had every time I wrote down what I did.

At anytime I can assess - without judgment from anyone else - whether I need to kick myself in the pants for slacking off, more of a challenge because I'm bored, or need to lay off because I'm tired from overdoing it. Honesty and motivation...from one simple, little habit.

Now that I have downloaded monthly calendars for the rest of this year, I wanted to share the free download-able calendar that I use so that you can log your own workout journal in a binder or folder.

Remember, exercise outside as much as possible and enjoy whatever it is that you do!

Need a good workout trainer in San Francisco? Check out Jen Fleischer at holisticfitsf.com or her Yelp review here.

Special Oscars Dinner Recipes

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 15:53:00 GMT

With so many great movies up for the Oscars this year, what better way to vote for your favorite film than with food? Here are four recipes for you to try - whether you want to simulate the good/evil nature in the Black Swan with the Coconut Balsamic Dessert or herald the Wild West in True Grit with Seriously Delish BBQ Chicken Wings. Click on the links below for the recipes.

Inception (Paris café)
Frisée Salad with Lardons and Poached Egg

True Grit (Wild West)
Seriously Delish BBQ Chicken Wings

The King's Speech (Royal English)
Savoy Cabbage with Thyme & Leeks

Black Swan (White & Black Ballerina)
"Black Swan" Coconut Balsamic Dessert

Stories that Can Help Change The World

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 16:10:00 GMT

Dear Friends ~

I'm excited to tell you that I am writing a book about my health journey from pain to recovery, and finally, freedom. Those of you who know me from cooking classes and talks know that I am passionate about high-quality food. The reason for that is simple: it gave me my life back.

For four years I had visited a host of doctors, trying to figure out why I had constant pain in the front of my hips. When I was finally diagnosed with fibromyalgia and a list of other ailments, I was relieved to find a cause, but I didn't take the protocol very well.

The last thing I wanted to do was change the way I ate - but with multiple food sensitivities, I knew I had to do it. Eating healthy was a life-changing revelation to me. I started eating for my body type and lost weight, looked younger and became pain-free in six months.

Now, I need your help. There are so many people who are sick and need inspiration to get healthy again. Personal stories about overcoming health challenges can be a very compelling way to do just that!

Do you or someone you know have a story you'd like to share?

I am looking for people who are struggling firsthand with poor health, are in recovery, or have healed themselves. It could be you, a friend, or a sister who had a health challenge that wouldn't go away until a realization "clicked" and made all the difference.

If you are not doing well health-wise, what is getting in the way of change?

If you are in recovery, what was it that finally "clicked" for you, and what challenges are you facing now - mental, physical, emotional, social?

If you have healed yourself, what qualitative changes did you make with your food choices, preparation, and approach to eating and wellness?

If you'd like to share a story so that others can gain from your experience, I want to hear from you. With your permission, I may even want to share the story in my book. (I will, of course, notify you first, and I am happy to keep your identity private if you prefer.) Please include a telephone number or way for me to contact you.

I'm hoping to have lots of stories in by the end of the month. If you want to contribute but need more time, just let me know. Together we can make a difference - to yourself and someone you care about.

Thank you and I look forward to hearing from you!

Email me here with your story.

Valentine's Day ~ A Recipe, A Treat For Yourself

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 01:21:00 GMT

Selecting where you are going to eat on Valentine's Day can be a great excuse to treat someone you love and better yet, yourself to a romantic evening. Whether your tradition is to eat out or cook up something special at home, a thoughtful approach to your meal can bring you an evening to remember.

If you are going out, ditch the calorie counting and go for the experience. Yes, it is important to balance out heavier items with lighter fare so you don't feel weighed down by your meal. Above all, treat yourself well and remember that valentine's Day is meant to connect with the one you love.

If you are single, give yourself the opportunity to do something special just for yourself or with friends you care about. If that means ordering a special meal at a quality restaurant, do it. Otherwise, you could treat yourself by taking the time to make something a little special without too much effort.

Here's my new favorite recipe inspired by Lidia Bastianich that I'll be cooking this Valentine's Day, Spaghetti with Clam Sauce (Spaghetti con Sugo Di Vongole).

In our gluten-free household, we generally don't eat a lot of pasta or grains, so this is a real comfort treat that tastes just like what one could easily happen upon in Rome. Clams are a natural aphrodisiac - which is so perfect for Valentine's Day! I hope you try it and enjoy it.
Mangia bene!

Click here for the recipe for Spaghetti with Clam Sauce.

Super Bowl o' Dip

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 01:15:00 GMT

Watching the Superbowl game this Sunday? It's usually a day of what-the-hell snacking frenzy, so why not toss in a couple of healthy options?

Since dips are a must-have for most game watchers, here are two recipes for you to tackle. Go ahead, double them. Make a whole vat of each for your friends and family to enjoy. They taste so good, no one will realize they're eating v-e-g-g-i-e-s...shhhhhh.

White Bean & Green Dip
Holy Guacamole

Tip: Want a fun way to skip the chips? Steam an artichoke for 45 minutes and use the leaves for dipping. You healthy genius, you!

Trend: A Wild Valentine's Day Dinner

Wed, 02 Feb 2011 21:07:00 GMT

If you've been racking your brains to figure out an unusual place to take your sweetheart for Valentine's Day, consider the upcoming underground dinner event put on by The Wild Kitchen in San Francisco.

Skilled local chefs use locally foraged ingredients to prepare a mouthwatering 5-course menu with an optional wine pairing. As is the trend with underground restaurants, the dinner location will be disclosed to ticket holders shortly before the event, giving you and your companion an exciting, unexpected experience.

At $50 per person, it seems very reasonable for both the quality and the experience. The only caveat is that you may be sitting at a communal table - which could be fun if you've never done it before.

Click here for tickets, the mouthwatering menu, and details about this Wild Kitchen event. For more foraging events, check out www.foragesf.com.

Staying home this Valentine's Day? Check back on my blog on February 7th for yummy, romantic dinner ideas and my Valentine's Day dinner recipe.

Beautify Yourself

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 23:33:00 GMT

This Valentine's Day is a perfect opportunity to take time to bring thoughtful intention to your beauty regimen. Whether you are doing something special for yourself or preparing a night out on the town, taking the time to pamper yourself can be luxuriously rewarding.

Here are some of my favorite, natural ways to beautify that you can do in the privacy of your own home.

Smooth Skin ~ sink into a hot bath made with 1 cup Epsom salt, 1 cup baking soda and a couple drops of pure rose essential oil or organic rose petals. Rose fragrance is known for its romantic and uplifting qualities, sure to put a smile on your face. Always use naturally derived essential oil made without chemical processing, such as Rose Otto by Aura Cacia or Rose Organic Bath Oil by Pratima. Alternatively, while you're in the shower, rub epsom salts all over your skin and follow with lotion or body oil to enjoy a smoother, more youthful glow.

Glowing legs ~ after shaving or exfoliating, use almond or olive oil to rub over your legs. Be sure to give yourself a little massage to relax your muscles and to allow the oil to work its way into your skin.

Silky hair ~ work this into your hair over your bathtub: one egg combined with 2 T olive oil. Apply evenly throughout hair and scalp and comb through. Place small towel on your shoulders while you let it air dry for 30 minutes. Rinse out with lukewarm (not warm) water. Apply an everyday conditioner immediately afterwards, cover with shower cap, and leave on for 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly. Shampoo as usual; condition lightly if needed.

Fragrance ~ If you have your favorite fragrance, by all means, wear it! But if you're looking ot try something new and truly all-natural, the oil fragrances by Pratima are a must-try. I recommend Love Oil and the über-portable Anti-Stress Aroma Oil (my favorite scent of all!). Order now in time for Valentine's Day.

Food Trend: Quality, Healthy Food Cook-Off

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 00:49:00 GMT

Recently, I had an exciting opportunity to participate in my first-ever healthy chef cook-off during the highly regarded JP Morgan Healthcare Conference.

Health Evolution Partners, a private equity firm for the healthcare industry, sponsored a 300-person reception for top innovative industry leaders at Williams-Sonoma’s Union Square flagship store on January 10th.

I was asked to create four healthy hors d’ouevres using fresh, local quality ingredients for 300 people. It was my biggest public cooking challenge to date at a high stakes venue. The 18-hour days spent creating the recipes was well worth it. Thankfully, I had help of the Betty Zlatchin Catering staff to help prepare and serve the appetizers. On the other side of the stove was seasoned sustainable food caterer Nona Lim of CookSF! The final judgment of who was the better chef was voted on by the attendees.

In my prior corporate life, I've seen the usual array of cheese balls and fried fare passed around at events. But this time, the event sponsor's CEO, David Brailer, demonstrated their company's core beliefs to industry leaders when talking about the importance of healthy food choices and by sponsoring the event.

Everyone - including the press - enjoyed the tasty, fresh food and live cooking demonstrations. Stacey Thornberry of Smart Meetings magazine reported on the event and commended my Pomegranate Pulled Pork with Tangy Veggie Slaw appetizer as my "star dish". With the votes being too close to call, both Nona and I tied for first place.

As exciting as it is to see two chefs square off, quality ingredients were definitely the star of this show. This brings joy to my heart, as it demonstrates that leaders in the health care industry not only recognize but support a real trend toward quality, healthy food.

For the Pulled Pork appetizer recipe, click here.

Survey on Feeding Kids Healthy

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 01:52:00 GMT

Are you a mom or dad and have an opinion on feeding your kids healthy food?

If so, I'd love to hear your thoughts in a survey I've compiled for my upcoming book. The book is still in development but I know I want to include what parents like you find important. This way, I can better understand the challenges you face and get a sense of how I can be of most help.

Please complete the survey no later than January 10, 2011. The survey only takes about 15 minutes, and your time and feedback are greatly appreciated.

Thanks so much for your participation ~ please pass this along to your friends who are moms and dads and want their voices heard!

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/MomDadSurveyBook

Cheers,
Sandra

Nature + Walk = Smile

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 18:47:00 GMT

I spent Thanksgiving weekend with my family in Detroit, and I have to tell you, it felt more like winter than fall to my West Coast blood.

I piled on lots of layers and managed to spend half a day out in the fresh air checking out my family's old neighborhoods. It felt really good to be outside, learning about where my dad used to live and go to school. But I was quite thankful that a hot steaming cup of tea was close at the end!

Quite randomly, I came across this video of how important it is to get outside every day. Especially when we want to stay inside during the colder months, it really does improve our mood to breathe in fresh air and visit nature doing it's thing. Whether you choose a 5-minute walk down the block or a nature trek in the woods with a loved one, either will likely have a freshening effect on your mood.

Check out this video of Scott Dinsmore, who I call the "Good-Mood Dude". He's submitting this tape to win a job blogging for Nature Valley's "Good Mood Gig". From time to time, I think we all need simple reminders like what he's talking about in his video. If you like him, then vote for Scott. And have a great day! :)

Video: "Store Wars" on "Darth Tater" & "Cuke Skywalker"

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 00:42:00 GMT

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving! Speaking of food, I came across this hilarious video while browsing the brand-new Bi-Rite website. (My favorite place to shop!)

For a great laugh, check out this short "veggie-mation" video on "Store Wars"... and "May The Farm Be With You"!

Q&A: Avoiding Dry Turkey While Reheating

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 19:35:00 GMT

Wanting to avoid dry turkey, Karen Disner recently asked me:

Q: "We're going to the Lions/Patriots game on Thanksgiving, so I need to cook my Turkey, etc., the day before. How do I warm up the turkey when we get back from the game so it's not dry?"

A: Thanks for asking, Karen. Here's the easiest way I have found to reheat turkey:

~ Step One: Roast The Bird, Cool, Refrigerate ~

Roast salted turkey covered with olive oil or butter at 450 degrees bottom side up for the first 30 minutes. Flip turkey breast-side up and roast remaining time at 350 degrees until breast meat is 160 degrees. Baste every 30 minutes. (Listen to my turkey interview here for details.)

Let the bird rest on the counter an hour or whenever it has cooled off enough to go into the fridge. If only slightly warm, cover loosely and put in fridge. Then check again to see when it's completely cooled in the fridge and cover tightly to prevent drying out.

~ Step Two: Fridge To Room Temperature ~

When ready to reheat, remove turkey from fridge at least 30-40 minutes, getting it closer to room temperature. Tip: If you reheat meat while it's too cold, it may dry out by the time it is warm all the way through.

~ Step Three: Separate and Slice, Then Heat The Legs ~

Preheat oven 250 degrees. Separate legs and thighs one side at a time, by pulling them with your hands away from the ribs until you hear a popping sound from the joint. Fully remove the thigh/leg portion by slicing the meat and skin around the joint with your knife. Repeat on other side. Carve breast by starting from the spine on down as far as you can go; then lay body on its side and carve across the bottom up to the top free area, with breast in one piece.

Preheat legs and thighs slowly in oven, uncovered, in an ovenproof dish. Tip: If you fear leg meat might be dry already, reintroduce moisture by putting legs on a small rack above 1/4" hot boiling water, and/or cover with lid or foil.

Carve turkey breast into slices, starting from the smaller part to the bigger part of the breast, against the grain. Tip: If you start carving the turkey and it crumbles then you are carving with the grain.

~ Step Four: Heat the Breast And Other Meat In Gravy ~

While legs are heating through, in a large skillet, heat a shallow layer of gravy over medium-low heat. Lay breast slices in pan on top of gravy, and cover with more gravy until moistened through. Heat slowly over medium-low heat until heated through, no more than 10 minutes, making sure breast slices are moistened from gravy.

Note: Final breast meat temp I like is usually 163 degrees, just below USDA recommendation of 165 degrees, which I find keeps the meat from drying out. Since the turkey keeps cooking while it's resting, and cooks even more during reheating, I recommend roasting turkey until breast meat registers 160 degrees so as not to overcook.

Radio Interview: Top Tips for Healthy Thanksgiving

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 20:38:00 GMT

Feel stuffed like a turkey every year after your Thanksgiving feast? Listen to my top tips for a healthier Thanksgiving without feeling deprived on Women's Journal Talk Radio.

Whether you have food allergies or sensitivities, or are just trying to do it healthier this holiday, follow my recipes and tips for navigating this seasons' dinners and parties.

Debbie Josendale, who interviews me in Merry Makeover: Holiday Food Survival Guide!, is the owner of the Bay Area Women's Journal, a San Francisco online publication connecting local area women in community, business and so much more.

A Father's Love for His Daughter's Hair

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 16:34:00 GMT

An adopted little black girl was feeling self-conscious about her hair. Her dad, a Sesame Street puppeteer, took the opportunity to make a cute puppet video, not only to encourage his daughter but other little black girls who feel the same way as she. When I saw this, it made my heart dance! It's such a creative example of fatherly love with an important message of self-love and celebration of uniqueness. Check this out and pass it on!

Detroit Rock City Is Coming Back!

Thu, 21 Oct 2010 00:49:00 GMT

Detroit Rock City is my hometown. And as a child of the '80s, all I saw whenever I went downtown to my dad's restaurant was urban decline. My father's nostalgia for '40s Detroit made him restless in what used to be a vibrant city. But now Detroit Rock City...IS COMING BACK!

Leading the way to its renaissance are artists, musicians and restaurateurs, some of whom are using former abandoned lots in 'crack house' neighborhoods to grow local food.

That's right, "Grown in Detroit".

Johnny Knoxville (remember him?) recently did a video, "Detroit Lives", with young Detroit artists going through grand old theaters and crumbling former auto plants. Tip-toeing through building wreckage, they described how other hip young artists are flocking from around the country to turn huge abandoned warehouses and homes into work/live lofts.

The excitement of this phenomenon reminds me of the "Wild West" frontier. In contrast, the modern paradigm of relying on big-box stores, stadiums and strip malls for economic stimulus is being replaced here with the enthusiasm of those with a collective boldness, creativity and need to create a community of opportunity, and vice versa.

Since the dawn of time, food has been the universal community creator. In Detroit, farmers markets' are multiplying and neighbors are growing their own food. New downtown restaurants like Slows Bar-B-Q are using Detroit grown ingredients and drawing folks from the suburbs, many of whom will happily wait an hour for a table. In this New York Times video footage, their patrons are not just loving it, they want more.

It just goes to show that by caring and using a little creativity you can seize opportunity to change your environment, even in your own neighborhood. Just like our ancestors did, these Detroiters are starting to change their world, one block at a time.

Class: Rooftop Gardening

Sat, 16 Oct 2010 16:50:00 GMT

Bring the farmers' market to your own rooftop in this upcoming Urban Rooftop Gardening class sponsored by Garden for the Environment.

Date: Saturday, October 30th, 2010
Time: 10AM - 12NOON
Location: Garden for the Environment, 7th Ave at Lawton Street, San Francisco
Cost: $15

To sign up, go to: http://rooftopoct10.eventbrite.com/

Classes: Soul-Warming Soups

Sat, 16 Oct 2010 21:25:00 GMT

Hungry? Cooking classes are fun! Check out the latest classes posted on my website now. Sign up with a friend and receive a 10% discount.

For more details, please click on this link: Cooking Classes

Put Yer Hoes Down!

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 21:06:00 GMT

Want to check out something fun and unusual by yourself, with family, or friends? Full Belly Farm is hosting its annual "Hoes Down" Festival in Yolo County on Saturday, October 2. Enjoy a fun, unique opportunity to see life on an organic family farm, up close and personal.

From all accounts, it's a great time for kids and adults young and old: music and dancing to a live band, good food (of course - would I steer you elsewhere?), hay rides, a petting Zoo and kids area. That's not all! Get your Christmas shopping in early at the craft booths or learn more about farmer issues in on one of the workshops.

Tickets for the festival only are $20 for adults, $5 for kids 2-12, and free for the wee ones under 2 years.

Want someone else to drive you to the farm? Festival admission and round-trip transportation is available from Berkeley and includes on-bus presentations about organizations like Slow Food and topics such as Community Sponsored Agriculture and Agricultural Land Trusts. Tickets are available on a sliding scale between $75-$95.

Your donation helps support educational tours that provide youth to learn about urban agriculture and visit local farms. Since the average age of farmers is 55 years, it's more important than ever to support farming by younger generations.

Buy your tickets online at www.bayareagreentours.org. For more info, call 510.704.0379 or go to www.hoesdown.org for a complete schedule of events.

Tip: Tools At The Ready

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 19:23:00 GMT

Part of what makes cooking more enjoyable is having essential tools within easy reach.

Here are things to keep near the stove for a more efficient kitchen:
Fine sea salt (I buy Real Salt in bulk at Rainbow Grocery) in a jar
Pepper mill
Knives (Global knives are my fave!)
Kitchen Jar of spoons, spatulas and the like
Leftover red wine (to deglaze a pan for killer sauces)

Things to have nearby, but not too close to the heat:
Olive oil
Dried herbs & spices, oils, vinegars and honey in a nearby cabinet
Chopping boards

What do you have near your stove that you can't live without?

Do Something Egg-celent Today

Sat, 16 Oct 2010 21:30:00 GMT

Contaminated food kills 5,000, hospitalizes 300,000, and makes 76 million Americans sick every year, according to the CDC. Check out this video at www.slowfoodusa.org/egg - pass it along to your friends - and sign the petition to get the FDA and USDA to regulate factory farms like they're supposed to do.

There must be another way to prevent this from happening to keep our families safe - and that is by asking questions about growing and raising practices from your suppliers and buying food from people you know and trust.

For more on where to find eggs from local farmers, check out your local coop, farmers market, or www.localharvest.org. While you're at it, why not ask your local supermarket to carry local eggs as well?

For a more in-depth look at factory farming practices, I highly recommend reading "The Righteous Porkchop" by Nicolette Hahn Niman.

A Little Pep Talk

Mon, 13 Sep 2010 03:17:00 GMT

Everyone knows that peppers are so "good for you" - but I must confess - I've never liked them. Either they're too hot or astringent, imagine my task last Saturday at the farmers' market to demonstrate a dish with peppers for a crowd of 40 hungry market-goers...MmmHmm.

Reaching for comfort, I went back to my Greek roots and came up with a yummy, tomatoey calamari stew that (whew!) had everyone nodding their heads in enjoyment. I used chilaca peppers (more Mexican than Greek, I know, but they are local) that are low in capsaicin (that makes peppers taste astringent) and low on the heat scale (even the seeds aren't wildly hot).

Check out my latest recipe for Greek Calamari Stew. Let me know how you like the chilaca chile (if you're lucky enough to get it!). If you live in San Francisco, you can buy them on Saturday at the Ferry Building farmers' market at Happy Quail Farms. Otherwise, check out whatever chiles are local in your area and suit your style of heat and flavor.

Extra! The happy pepper people at Happy Quail Farms gave me a little "pep talk" on the chilaca chile. First, it's long, green and thin - not bulbous like bell peppers or even poblanos. As promised, chilacas lend a lovely peppery essence without overwhelming dishes with heat or astringency (i.e., capsaicin). However, if you want to avoid even the most remote hint of heat, simply cut off the top 1/4 of the pepper that houses the seeds and white membrane. Another cool thing I learned: the green chilaca is in its "raw" state; when kept longer on the vine, it turns chocolatey brown and is used in making rich, decadent mole sauce (can't wait to develop that recipe!). When dried, the chilaca pepper is called the pasilla pepper.