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    " . . . The quality of the fruits and vegetables available at grocery stores is terrible. Most are laden with toxic substances, such as sulfates on grapes, pesticides . . . many times fruits and vegetables are imported from foreign countries that use toxic pesticides that are illegal in the United States."
    As stated by Dr. Ronald Steriti in our article Antioxidants and Organic Foods

Tray of Togetherness

February 26th, 2007 - Barbara Feiner

I’ve posted three recipes in honor of Chinese New Year: Braised Black Bean Pork, Almond Gel and Sweet Sesame Balls. As the 15-day celebration comes to a close, consider creating a Tray of Togetherness for your family.

Eight is considered the luckiest number in Chinese culture, bringing good fortune and happiness. A traditional Tray of Togetherness features eight special treats, including dried fruit, seeds and nuts. You can find the ingredients at your local natural and organic food store or at a nearby Asian market.

In the example shown here, you’ll see (clockwise from top center):

  1. Sesame sticks, said to bring many children
  2. Red melon seeds, because the color symbolizes happiness and joy
  3. Candied winter melon, representing growth and good health
  4. Kumquats, because the gold represents prosperity
  5. Peanuts, signifying longevity
  6. Lucky money candy, leading to a sweet and prosperous year
  7. Lotus seeds, attributed to fertility
  8. Longans (an Asian fruit), said to bring many good sons

And if you want to wish someone good fortune in Cantonese, just say: “Kung Hay Fat Choy.”

Book Pick of the Day: Chinese Healing Foods: Keep Your Body and Soul in Balance with Powerful Natural Foods and Seasonings

Photo courtesy of Panda Express

Almond Gel

February 16th, 2007 - Barbara Feiner

Yesterday, we planned for Chinese New Year festivities with a recipe for Sweet Sesame Balls. Today’s dish is a refreshingly light and silky Almond Gel.

All of the ingredients can be found in your local natural and organic food store.

Almond Gel

Makes 6 to 8 servings

  • 2 envelopes unflavored gelatin
  • 3 cups Pearl Unsweetened Organic Soymilk
  • 2/3 cup sugar
  • 1¾ teaspoons almond extract
  • 1 pound fresh fruit, chopped
  1. Sprinkle gelatin over 1/2 cup water in small bowl; let stand 10 minutes to soften.
  2. Meanwhile, combine soymilk and sugar in saucepan. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until hot and steaming; do not boil.
  3. Remove from heat; blend in gelatin and extract.
  4. Cool slightly and pour into 8-inch square glass baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate 8 hours or overnight until firm.
  5. To serve, cut gel into 1-inch cubes; place in individual bowls and top with fruit.

Book Pick of the Day: Revolutionary Chinese Cookbook: Recipes from Hunan Province

Recipe courtesy of Kikkoman International Inc.


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