Oregano & Mushroom Cabbage Rolls

Cabbage As a Kid

When you have fresh oregano and cabbage coming along nicely in the garden it’s time to make some Oregano & Mushroom Cabbage Rolls! Do you remember as a kid not wanting to try cabbage because of the smell? I do too! I’m not sure what made me try it…..oh wait! YES, I do. My mom would make the classic southern cabbage casserole with butter, cheese and crackers!

Yep, that’s how my siblings and friends grew up. But the good thing is we developed a taste for the natural sweetness of cabbage. So, as we got older we learned to try it other ways. Maturity makes us try new things doesn’t it? We want more out of life, and to provide more for those around us. The benefits of which, reap rewards for years to come. Keep in mind, some of the nutrients in this amazing food is lost when we boil it, like it’s vitamin C.(1) It is much better to make a fermented sauerkraut to retain this vital nutrient.

Benefits of Oregano, Mushroom, & Cabbage

However, for this dish, we will steam the cabbage to try and retain some of it’s vitamins, while releasing some of it’s antioxidant potential.

Cooking or steaming cabbage can release the antioxidant kaempferol that has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, cardioprotective, and antidiabetic properties. This is one food you definitely want in your arsenal to fight disease! (3)

The highest amount of flavonoids have been found in parsley, dill, oregano, celery, and fennel! Fresh herbs you can grow yourself and add to your dishes each day for flavor and nutrition (2). Therefore, growing oregano can benefit your entire family. God’s amazing plan for your health began the third day of creation and is still in effect today. So, take advantage of this beautiful herb for it’s anticancer effects! You will also experience beneficial cardiovascular effects, antimicrobial benefits, and more!

Mushrooms are also high in polyphenols, polysaccharides, anti-cancer, improve immune system, and help with diabetes.

God’s Provision

The bottom line, as I always say is “What God put in the garden is good!”

I was reading Luke chapter 12 today. There are so many principles in this passage of scripture that help me and you appreciate everything God provides. Jesus basically tells his disciples not to worry, and not to hoard up things for themselves. He reminds them to be faithfully wise managers of everything.

Peter said, “Lord, are you telling this parable for us or for all?”  And the Lord said, “Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom his master will set over his household, to give them their portion of food at the proper time?  Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes.

Luke 12 ESV – Beware of the Leaven of the Pharisees – Bible Gateway

We learn in this passage and throughout scripture that wise choices, trusting God, and submitting our lives to Him are for our benefit. The honor and privilege of abundant sources of nutrition strengthens our bodies for the mission field around us! Our families, neighbors, friends, and coworkers will know of His great love. So, I hope you have time to try these Oregano & Mushroom Cabbage Rolls this week! Your cells with thank you!

Here is the Recipe!


Oregano & Mushroom Cabbage Rolls

Fresh Oregano and garden grown cabbage make this delicious and nutritious meal for your family. My family has grown cabbage and enjoyed it's benefits for many years. I'm inspired by all the previous recipes for cabbage rolls, but I like mine without tomato. So I developed a cabbage roll I can enjoy with my family. I hope it is something you'll enjoy too!

  • 1 Medium Head Organic Cabbage
  • 3 Medium Carrots, finely sliced
  • 2 Cloves Garlic Minced
  • 2 Small Onions or one large Halved and chopped
  • 1 Package Organic Shitake Mushrooms
  • 1 Cup Precooked Quinoa or Whole Grain Rice
  • 2 Lbs. Lean Grass Fed Beef
  • 1/4 Cup Fresh Chopped Oregano
  • 1/2 Tsp. Salt
  • 1 Tsp. Onion Powder or No Salt Seasoning

  1. 1. Core and slice your head of cabbage in half. Place in a colander thin put it inside a large pot with shallow water and steam until just tender, about 20-30 min.

  2. 2. Meanwhile, sauté your lean ground beef with minced garlic, 1/2 of the onions (save the other half for toppings), two of the carrots (save one for topping), 1/2 of the mushrooms (save the other half for topping) , salt, onion powder, and/or no salt spice blend. (about 20min)

  3. 3. When the ground beef is browned and the vegetables tender and the cabbaged cooled you can assemble and roll the beef mixture on the individual cabbage leaves and roll. When the beef is done, at the very end, add the fresh chopped oregano.

    **Be sure to let the cabbage cool enough to handle, this is why the prep time is longer, You can go clean the house or something while you wait. **

  4. 4. Place the rolled cabbage leaves into a lightly oiled 9×13 pan. I use organic extra virgin olive oil for this and leave a tablespoon to brush onto the cabbage rolls once the pan is filled.

  5. 5. I use a vegetable peeler to slice thin carrots over the cabbage rolls. I also add the remaining sliced mushrooms, onions, sprinkle with onion powder and salt and a tablespoon of fresh oregano.

  6. 6. I bake this dish at 350 degrees for about 20 min.


For more delicious healthy recipes see the garden and remember, “What God puts in the garden is good!”

References:

Effect of different cooking methods on the content of vitamins and true retention in selected vegetables (nih.gov)

Lee S, Choi Y, Jeong HS, Lee J, Sung J. Effect of different cooking methods on the content of vitamins and true retention in selected vegetables. Food Sci Biotechnol. 2017;27(2):333-342. Published 2017 Dec 12. doi:10.1007/s10068-017-0281-1

Antioxidant Activity of Spices and Their Impact on Human Health: A Review (nih.gov)
Yashin A, Yashin Y, Xia X, Nemzer B. Antioxidant Activity of Spices and Their Impact on Human Health: A Review. Antioxidants (Basel). 2017;6(3):70. Published 2017 Sep 15. doi:10.3390/antiox6030070

Kaempferol: A Key Emphasis to Its Anticancer Potential – PubMed (nih.gov)

Imran M, Salehi B, Sharifi-Rad J, Aslam Gondal T, Saeed F, Imran A, Shahbaz M, Tsouh Fokou PV, Umair Arshad M, Khan H, Guerreiro SG, Martins N, Estevinho LM. Kaempferol: A Key Emphasis to Its Anticancer Potential. Molecules. 2019 Jun 19;24(12):2277. doi: 10.3390/molecules24122277. PMID: 31248102; PMCID: PMC6631472.

Luteolin, a flavonoid with potential for cancer prevention and therapy – PubMed (nih.gov)

Lin Y, Shi R, Wang X, Shen HM. Luteolin, a flavonoid with potential for cancer prevention and therapy. Curr Cancer Drug Targets. 2008 Nov;8(7):634-46. doi: 10.2174/156800908786241050. PMID: 18991571; PMCID: PMC2615542.

Naringenin, a flavanone with antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects: A promising treatment strategy against COVID-19 – PubMed (nih.gov)

Tutunchi H, Naeini F, Ostadrahimi A, Hosseinzadeh-Attar MJ. Naringenin, a flavanone with antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects: A promising treatment strategy against COVID-19. Phytother Res. 2020 Dec;34(12):3137-3147. doi: 10.1002/ptr.6781. Epub 2020 Jul 2. PMID: 32613637; PMCID: PMC7361426.

Pharmacological Activity of Eriodictyol: The Major Natural Polyphenolic Flavanone – PubMed (nih.gov)

Deng Z, Hassan S, Rafiq M, Li H, He Y, Cai Y, Kang X, Liu Z, Yan T. Pharmacological Activity of Eriodictyol: The Major Natural Polyphenolic Flavanone. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2020 Dec 12;2020:6681352. doi: 10.1155/2020/6681352. PMID: 33414838; PMCID: PMC7752289.

Antioxidant Activities of Quercetin and Its Complexes for Medicinal Application – PubMed (nih.gov)

Xu D, Hu MJ, Wang YQ, Cui YL. Antioxidant Activities of Quercetin and Its Complexes for Medicinal Application. Molecules. 2019 Mar 21;24(6):1123. doi: 10.3390/molecules24061123. PMID: 30901869; PMCID: PMC6470739.



Savory Cabbage Cashew & Broccoli Sauté

We start our garden the Saturday after St. Patrick’s day, weather permitting, of course. There is usually cold weather and rain most of the month, but usually a week or two of warm dry days come along to allow tilling and planting. We take advantage of those rare spring days to plant broccoli, cabbage, onions, and potatoes.

The abundance of cabbage and broccoli this year make for some tasty dishes in the kitchen starting in late May! There is nothing more satisfying to my palate than picking my own home-grown vegetables and coming up with recipes. I hope this Savory Cabbage Cashew & Broccoli Sauté will become one of your favorite summertime dishes as it has in our home.

Cabbage Benefits

Do you notice something about the head of cabbage in this picture? It has some well eaten leaves from a voracious cabbage worm, however the head grew healthy and strong. We use organic compost to fertilize the soil and we do not spray any pesticides on our plants. So, we expect a few eaten leaves and watch God do what He does best, water it and make it grow.

His supply of nutrients for us never runs out if we just partake of what He provides in the garden. The amazing benefits of cabbage begin with it’s rich supply of macronutrients and cancer fighting compounds. It is helpful in digestion, fighting inflammation, and providing necessary minerals to help our joints function. The calcium, magnesium, and potassium in this healthy plant also provide nutrients necessary to stabilize heart and blood vessel function. You can read all about the benefits of cabbage at this Organic Facts site.

Giving Thanks

“Bless the Lord, O my soul! O Lord God, you are very great! You are clothed with splendor and majesty, covering yourself with light as with a garment, stretching out the heavens as a tent. From your lofty abode you water the mountains; the earth is satisfied with the fruit of your work. You cause the grass to grow for the livestock and plants for man to cultivate, that he may bring forth food from the earth and wine to gladden the heart of man, oil to make his face shine and bread to strengthen man’s heart.
Psalm 104: 1, 13-15

Psalm 104 HCSB – Psalm 104 God the Creator – My soul, – Bible Gateway

Savory Cabbage Cashew & Broccoli Sauté


Savory Cabbage Cashew & Broccoli Sauté

Fresh garden goodies for a quick sauté!

  • 2 Cups Fresh Washed and Chopped Cabbage
  • 2 Cups Fresh Washed and Chopped Broccoli
  • 1 Small Onion
  • 1 Teaspoon Fresh Grated Curcumin Root ((optional–may use ginger))
  • 1 Tbsp. Organic Coconut Aminos
  • 1 Tbsp. Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1 Tsp. Onion Powder
  • 1 Tsp. Pepper
  • 1 Tbsp. Fresh Chopped Oregano Leaves
  • 2 Tbsp. Chopped Cashews

  1. 1. Heat skillet to medium, no hotter. You can do this as you wash and chop vegetables.

  2. 2. Add the olive oil to your skillet with the onion and fresh curcumin root (or ginger) add the pepper here as well.

  3. 3. Add the Chopped Cabbage and Broccoli and stir frequently. I like mine cooked until just tender about 10 minutes. Season with onion powder.

  4. 4. Add the Coconut aminos and fresh chopped oregano.

  5. 5. Last, add the cashews! I like to also add sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds for added protein and nutrients. This makes a wonderful light supper, with no heavy meat and it fills you up so you're not looking for snacks later in the evening. I hope you enjoy!




Broccoli & Cherry Salad

Our entire family loves broccoli! The bigger, the better. Since the dark cherries are slightly tart and sweet, I wanted to combine them with the broccoli for a broccoli and cherry salad. This crop of broccoli is much more impressive than the last two year’s crop.

I decided at the end of February to dig some fresh compost to fill our boxed bed before planting the broccoli. Since the tree line to the right of our property has been the dumping ground of all grass clippings, old trees, leaves, and vegetables rinds for the past twenty-five years, it seemed like a good place to find multiple nutrients.

Leave it to God to use time and His creation to decompose one source of vegetation to nourish and help another grow! He never ceases to amaze me. The broccoli seedlings were planted in late March and survived temperatures as low as 21 degrees! We covered them with a sheet and hoped for the best! You can see below, with a little tender loving care and resilience these plants thrived!

Much like the covering of theses plants in the frigid air, my heart needs God’s covering to protect it too. Especially when there are some tough moments when I feel some coldness from others. I admit my part in this, ask forgiveness, and cry out to God to heal the relationship. It is all I can do.

Do you know what happens? He holds me through the cold. I feel the warmth of his love envelop me and protect my heart just like that sheet protected my plants that freezing April morning.

My heart recoils within me my compassion grows warm and tender.

Hosea 11:8b

We can enjoy what He puts in the garden and savor the nourishment for our souls in His Word.

God Bless you as you partake of both today!

Broccoli & Cherries for a Salad!

Broccoli & Cherry Salad with Brazil Nuts


Broccoli & Cherry Salad

  • 3 Large Heads Broccoli
  • 1 Large Carrot
  • 1 TBSP. Finely Chopped Onion
  • 1/2 Cup Chopped Brazil Nuts
  • 1/2 Cup Fresh Sliced Cherries
  • 2 TBSP Fresh Chopped Lemon balm
  • 1 Ounce Apple Cider Vinegar
  • 2 Ounces Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1 TSP Honey
  • 1 Tsp Onion Powder
  • 1/2 Tsp Himalayan Salt
  • 1/2 Tsp Pepper

  1. Chop the Broccoli and Blanch 1 minute in Boiling Water, Drain in a colander and run cool water over it to stop the cooking process. Then season with onion powder, salt, & pepper.

    Meanwhile, chop the onion and Brazil nuts. Also clean and thinly slice the carrot and the cherries.

    Lastly, chop the fresh Lemon balm.

    Combine the apple cider vinegar, olive oil and honey in a cup and mix well.

    Add all the ingredients to a large bowl and combine. Eat immediately or store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.




Caramelized Carrots & Asparagus

The month of May in the Ohio Valley brings forth really nice asparagus patches. The flavor and health benefits of asparagus make it a star side dish or main meal in our house. Caramelized carrots and asparagus with walnuts is an easy delicious way to enjoy this springtime vegetable.

Although, I love eating and preparing this vegetable, I don’t have great success growing it in my garden. Hopefully, that will change as I read about the ph. of soil, fertilizing, and appropriate harvesting. In the meantime, I’ll enjoy my local grocer’s variety and whip up this recipe for my family

What’s God Put’s In The Garden is Good

As I think about the nutritional value of asparagus, I think about our loving Creator placing just the right amount of folate in our food for us to thrive. There are 89 micrograms per cup, which is 22% of a lady’s daily requirement. (1) If combined with a cup of black-eyed peas half of the daily requirement for folate is met…NATURALLY. Why is this important?

Pay attention, heavens, and I will speak; listen earth, to the words of my mouth. Let my teaching fall like rain and my word settle like dew; like gentle rain on new grass and showers on tender plants. For I will proclaim Yahweh’s name. Declare the greatness of our God! The Rock-His work is perfect; all His ways are entirely just, A faithful God, without prejudice, He is righteous and true.

Deuteronomy 32: 1-4

We all have a folate receptor 1 gene (FOLR1) which need this B vitamin to transmit information through the membranes of our cells. It repairs DNA, regulates gene expression, protein production, and is vital for nerve impulses and transmission. (2) No wonder spinach, broccoli, brussels sprouts, beef liver and black-eyed peas are so valuable!

They provide the natural form of folate absorbed by the intestines and utilized by our bodies to continue the necessary functions of our cells. Without it we are more susceptible to depression, dementia and chronic disease.


Caramelized Carrots & Asparagus

  • 1 Bundle Fresh Washed and Chopped Asparagus
  • 3 Organic, peeled and sliced Carrots
  • 2 Cloves Minced Garlic
  • 1/4 Cup Chopped Walnuts
  • 2 Tbsp. Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1/2 Tsp. Onion Powder
  • 1/2 Tsp. Salt & Pepper

  1. In a medium skillet, add 1 cup water with the sliced carrots and minced garlic. Cover and bring to a simmer. Watch it closely and stir until all the water is almost boiled off, add the olive oil, stir well until the carrots are tender and just caramelized. Add the asparagus, seasoning and walnuts. Leave uncovered and stir frequently to keep it from sticking, about 5 minutes is all you need to steam the asparagus. Serve immediately as a main dish or special side!


So, enjoy your caramelized carrots and asparagus dish and feed your cells at the same time!

References:

(1) FOLR1 gene. MedlinePlus 2014. FOLR1 gene: MedlinePlus Genetics

(2) US Department for Health and Human Services. Folate – Health Professional Fact Sheet (nih.gov)



Cashew Cauliflower & Asparagus Medley

Does your body sometimes crave the goodness of the garden? Mine does, especially after indulging in too many sweets while on vacation. Even though I maintain that 80% fruit, vegetable, whole food plan, that 20% of junk is causing misery. So, it’s back to basics with this Cashew Cauliflower & Asparagus Medley.

Cauliflower is a Powerhouse in Fighting Disease

When I think of all the benefits of cauliflower and asparagus I start to feel better already. The idea of decreasing joint pain and stiffness is appealing with this combination of anti-inflammatory delights. Cauliflower for instance, contains antioxidants that help fight cancer, the aging process and aide hormone balance. As a member of the brassica family of vegetables, cauliflower contains phytochemicals that lower oxidative stress, promote detoxifying enzymes, stimulate the immune system, decrease the risk of cancer, inhibit cancer causing mutations at the cellular level, as well as reducing the ability of cancer cells to grow and reproduce (1). We are talking, POWERHOUSE, of God given ability to fight disease.

While the benefits of cauliflower are amazing, its sister asparagus, in this dish also empowers our cells to fight disease! The polyphenols extracted in one study showed five antioxidant nutrients to fight disease; including ferulic acid, quercetin, rutin, isorhamnetin and kaempferol (2).

I don’t know about you, but I’m in! I’m starting by combining the lovely cauliflower with asparagus and cashews.

What God Puts in The Garden is So Good!

And God said, “Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall have them for food.
Genesis 1:29

There is no doubt science reveals the complexity and phenomenal plan of God’s provision for our bodies. His provision for our bodies is only outdone only by His provision for our mind and souls… through his word. So be assured today, in the beginning was the word and the word was with God and the word was God, he was with God in the beginning and the word became flesh and dwelt among us in the form of Jesus. (John 1:1, 14).

What a beautiful plan for divinely designed people!


Cashew Cauliflower & Asparagus Medley

  • 6 Button Mushrooms (Cleaned and Chopped)
  • 1 Tbsp. Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1/4 Onion
  • 1 Clove Minced Garlic
  • 1/2 Head Organic Cauliflower, washed and Chopped
  • 5-6 Spears Organic Asparagus
  • 1 TSP Thyme
  • 1 TSP Onion Powder
  • 1/2 TSP Pepper
  • 1/4 Cup Chopped Cashews

  1. Sauté the mushrooms in heated olive oil until tender. Add the onions and garlic and cook until translucent, about a minute or two. Then add the chopped cauliflower and asparagus and cook a couple of minutes until just tender, add spices and top with chopped cashews.

    Enjoy!


So, if you like this Cashew Cauliflower & Asparagus medley you may also like more dishes from the brassica family! You can check them out here:

Parsnip & Chickpea Saute’ – Strengthen Your Heart (mystypfeffer.com)

Thank you and God bless you on your journey of battling chronic disease!

References:

  1. Kapusta-Duch J, Kopeć A, Piatkowska E, Borczak B, Leszczyńska T. The beneficial effects of Brassica vegetables on human health. Rocz Panstw Zakl Hig. 2012;63(4):389-95. PMID: 23631258. The beneficial effects of Brassica vegetables on human health – PubMed (nih.gov)
  2. Fan R, Yuan F, Wang N, Gao Y, Huang Y. Extraction and analysis of antioxidant compounds from the residues of Asparagus officinalis L. J Food Sci Technol. 2015 May;52(5):2690-700. doi: 10.1007/s13197-014-1360-4. Epub 2014 Apr 20. PMID: 25892766; PMCID: PMC4397332.
    Extraction and analysis of antioxidant compounds from the residues of Asparagus officinalis L – PubMed (nih.gov)


Chili Spaghetti Squash

Any time of year is good for chili spaghetti squash. In places that savor their chili over pasta but don’t like the carbs, spaghetti squash makes a nice substitute. Not only is it filling, it provides small amounts of vitamin A & C. As well as minerals, potassium and calcium. Topped with your favorite chili recipe or this Quinoa Black Bean Chili, you’ll be set to enjoy a warm comfortable evening.
While chili spaghetti fills our bodies with food, let’s fill our souls with God’s word. The Psalmist says:

Lord, Your word is forever; it is firmly fixed in heaven.Your faithfulness is for all generations; You established the earth, and it stands firm.They stand today in accordance with your judgements, for all things are your servants. If Your instruction had not been my delight, I would have died in my affliction. I will never forget Your precepts, for You have given me life through them.I am Yours, save me for I have sought Your precepts.

Psalm 119:89-94 HCSB – ל Lamed LORD, Your word is forever; it – Bible Gateway

Don’t you love that God’s word is firmly fixed in heaven? Something we can count on it throughout every generation. Just as the earth stands firm, we can stand firm in God’s faithfulness. Moreover, It is life to us and something we won’t forget. I don’t know about you, but I will delight in that firm foundation, my friends!


Chili Spaghetti Squash

  • 1 Spaghetti Squash
  • 1 lb lean ground beef
  • 1 16 oz Can Black Beans
  • 1 16 oz Jar Salsa
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • 2 teaspoons each chili powder, cumin, oregano
  • 2 cups Beef Broth or Water

  1. Bake the Spaghetti Squash at 350 for one hour on a baking sheet. Set aside until ready to use. When ready to use, cut down the center and scoop out the seeds. Take a fork and pull the meat of the squash apart. It will look like spaghetti noodles. Set aside.

  2. Meanwhile, in a saucepan, heat ground beef, onions and garlic until meat is done. Add the spices, beans, salsa. and broth. Simmer until thick, about 30 minutes. Serve over squash.


Top this chili spaghetti squash with your favorite cheese and enjoy! Remember too, what’s in the garden is good!



Artichoke Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Although it’s late January, I’m already thinking about planting cabbage. The seeds can be planted now and ready for the ground by St. Patrick’s day. Our usual cold hearty planting time. I’m picturing how nice this cabbage will be paired with other vegetables. I like the idea of artichoke stuffed cabbage rolls. So, in preparation for the planting season, I’ll get to work on that recipe.

In addition to this recipe’s tastiness will be it’s nutritional value. Artichokes are rich in polyphenols, flavonoids, vitamins, minerals, enzymes and phytosterols. All amazing wonders in building cells, fighting cancer and sustaining the human body. Paired with cabbage, carrots, mushrooms and onions, this meal is sufficient to make the cells happy!

Since it just would be a shame to only feed my cells, I want to feed my soul too. In a broader sense, we can know the sufficiency of Christ for fulfilling all of our spiritual needs. Paul says to the Philippians, everything he’d gained in life-education, status, good religious family, and zeal for God are all considered a loss because of Christ:

More than that, I also consider everything to be a loss in view of the surpassing value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. Because of him I have suffered the loss of all things and consider them filth, so that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own from the law, but one that is through faith in Christ—the righteousness from God based on faith. “
Philippians 3:8-9

Philippians 3 HCSB – Knowing Christ – Finally, my brothers, – Bible Gateway

There you have it! Sufficient food from the garden and surpassing value of Christ as Lord over our souls. What a sweet combination to traverse the rigorous journey of life. I hope you enjoy a little of both today, my friend!


Artichoke Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

  • 1 Head Organic Cabbage
  • 1 6 ounce Jar Artichoke Hearts
  • 2 Carrots chopped
  • 3 Mushrooms Chopped
  • 1 Cup Precooked Quinoa or Multigrain Rice
  • 1/2 Cup Chopped Onion
  • 2 Cloves Minced Garlic
  • 2 Tbsp Organic Extra Virgin Olive OIl
  • 2 ounces Cream Cheese (optional)

  1. Wash and cut the tip off the cabbage. Slice it down the center and place in a large pot. Add 4 cups of water, cover with a lid and bring to a boil, simmer until just tender. Do not overcook. Drain, lightly salt and let cool until able to handle.

    Meanwhile sauté the mushrooms in Olive oil until tender, Add the onions, garlic, and carrots, and precooked quinoa or rice. Drain the jar of artichoke hearts, and rinse if too vinegary. Add that to the skillet until just warmed. Add salt and pepper to taste.

    Add a tablespoon of the vegetable filling to a leaf of cabbage, roll up and place in a 9×13 dish. Continue filling and rolling until all the leaves are used. In the same skillet of the vegetables place another tablespoon of olive oil, add 2-3 ounces of cream cheese and pour over cabbage leaves. Bake at 350 for about 10 minutes or until bubbly.


Look for more ways to cabbage Here. I hope you and your family enjoy these sufficiently sound artichoke stuffed cabbage rolls as much as my family does!

God Bless You! What’s in the garden is good!

https://mystypfeffer.com/parsnip-chickpea-saute/


Quinoa & Garam Masala Cod

Sometimes, I think I should just call this, “My Simple Life” Blog. I don’t think I ever make anything difficult. This red quinoa & garam masala cod fish takes 30 minutes, max. And if you prepare your Quinoa ahead of time like I do, it’s even less time than that, maybe 15 min.

Aren’t you glad there are so many delicious and easy to prepare meals available that only take a few minutes?

I love that!

I also love, that cod fish provides a good source of vitamins C, E, and B 12. As well as minerals magnesium and potassium. But best of all, cod fish has the heart healthy, joint lubricating, anti-inflammatory benefit of Omega 3. You can check out more facts about Cod all over the web, but I’m a little partial to Organic Facts.

The creamy sauce that goes well with this healthy fish is pretty tasty too!

A combination of 2 tablespoons Full Fat Greek Yogurt and 1 Teaspoon Sabal Oelek chili sauce… it’s delicious!

I hope you like this Quinoa & Garam Masala Cod fish as much as we do!

Quinoa & Garam Masala Cod


Red Quinoa & Garam Masala Cod

  • 1 pound Thawed Cod Fillets
  • 1 teaspoon Garam Masala (more if needed)
  • 1 Tablespoon Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1 Cup Quinoa (Rinsed and drained)
  • 2 Cups Vegetable Broth
  • 1 Teaspoon No Salt Spice Blend
  • 2 Cups Salad Greens tossed with onion powder (1 tsp olive oil and 1/2 teaspoon apple cider vinegar.

  1. Prepare Quinoa according to package directions with the No salt spice blend. (I like to prepare a whole pan on preparation day and use from that)

    Prepare fish. Toss with the garam masala spice. Then cook according to your preference. Some people use their Air Fryer (that would be nice and quick) I just sauté mine in EVOO for 10 min and it's done. If I have my oven on for something else, then I bake it at 400 for 15-18 min.

    I use 1 Tablespoon of Full Fat Yogurt with a teaspoon of Sambal Chilies for a fish dipping sauce.

    Serve the fish on a bed of Quinoa and the tossed salad greens with homemade dressing.


Remember, What God put in the garden…and the ocean… is good!

While you’re here, check out these Tortilla Recipes!



Gluten Free Pumpkin Roll

A gluten free pumpkin roll is always on my Thanksgiving dessert list each year.  My celiac and gluten sensitive friends like their fall treats too! So, with hosting responsibilities on my mind, I’d like to give you and I another way to please our guests.

The best part is…they won’t even recognize the slight change in ingredients.

As our fall holiday plans begin to take shape and we check off our list of things to do, the blessings mount, don’t they? You and I may have managed to lose a little weight, or we are maintaining our current weight!

Whoop Hoo! What if we just want to sustain a healthier eating pattern?

Whatever the plans and dreams in our hearts we have an opportunity this Holiday to give glory to God in thanks and praise.

He restores joy and long months of distance by giving us time together for a holiday. The prolonged separation helps us see how much we miss and need each other.

May the Lord draw us closer spiritually as we gather and cherish this special day.

I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart; I will recount all of your wonderful deeds.

Psalms 9:1

Gluten Free Pumpkin Roll
Gluten Free Pumpkin Roll

The big plus for a gluten free pumpkin roll is decreasing exposure to wheat sensitive guts that stimulate the immune system to attack itself. We will both benefit from a little diligence in decreasing inflammation, right?

Since our immune systems can be under constant attack eating a few ultra -processed foods. Food sensitivities play a role in making us feel bad. Staying on track is important to both of us. That’s why you’ll find me giggling like a schoolgirl when I get to brainstorm ideas with my clients.

They love creating their own meal plans to enjoy!

Now when it comes to baking, I am not the best gluten free baker. However, I care about the people in my life who are susceptible to the damaging effects of wheat.

So, even though developing this recipe took several tries, it was worth it!

The one I made for a friend’s dinner and went over pretty well. Therefore, I hope it is a pumpkin roll you can use too!

Gluten Free Pumpkin Roll Recipe


Gluten Free Pumpkin Roll

I love sharing one of our Thanksgiving favorites for all of you. This particular pumpkin roll meets the needs of gluten sensitive people in our community.

  • 1/2 Cup Almond Flour
  • 1/2 Cup Arrowroot Starch/Flour
  • 1/2 Cup Pumpkin Puree'
  • 1/4 Cup Sugar with 1 scoop Pure Stevia (Or 1/4 Cup Stevia Blend)
  • 1/4 Cup Maple Syrup (Optional)
  • 3 Large Eggs
  • 1 Tsp Baking Powder
  • 1 Tsp Xanthan Gum
  • 1 Tsp Pumpkin Pie Spice
  • 1/4 Cup Powdered Sugar
  • 1 8 ounce Block of Cream Cheese
  • 1 tsp Vanilla
  • 1/4 Cup Maple Sugar (Yes, another one, for the filling.)

  1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Combine the flours, stevia blend or sugar (your preference) and spices in a bowl and whisk well. Add the Eggs and pumpkin and also blend. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, lightly grease the top of the paper with butter. Pour the batter over the parchment paper and spread out evenly. Bake for 10 minutes.

    Sprinkle a dish towel with 1/4 cup of the powdered sugar. When the cake is done, handle the baking sheet with oven mitts and turn the cake onto the surface of the towel. Pull off the parchment paper. Gently roll the cake into a log while in the towel. Place the towel in the freezer and set your timer for 15 minutes.

    Meanwhile, Whisk 1 block of cream cheese with 1/4 cup maple syrup and 1 tsp vanilla until soft.** See notes below for alternatives.

    Remove the cake from the freezer, and apply the cream chees frosting to the inside of the cake. Roll back into a log and cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

I have replaced the sugar in the cake with stevia or monk fruit blends and it works well for those on special eating plans. But I forgot to add the maple syrup in the video and  FYI, I did not miss the extra carbs at all! It was sweet enough with the maple sweetened filling. 

Also, my preference for sweetening the cream cheese filling is to use 1/4 cup maple syrup with the vanilla to  sweeten. You may of course use 1/4 cup powdered sugar if you are not concerned about the added sugar, just remember portion control. 


And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful

Colossians 3:14-16 ESV – And above all these put on love, which – Bible Gateway

I hope you enjoy this gluten free pumpkin roll for your gluten sensitive friends! God wants you and I thriving spiritually and physically. He also gave us the power to do that! The blessing of His Son for our redemption and the provision of all good things in the garden to heal our bodies. We can be truly thankful.

I am here for you if you have any questions about the recipe or if you want to talk to a health coach about making some changes in your lifestyle, exercise, attitude, or nutrition. You can contact me here at Book an Appointment for a 30-minute free consultation.



Kale Pesto & Spaghetti Squash

“….so as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to Him: bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; being strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for all endurance and patience with joy;
Colossians 1:10-11

Paul and his run on sentences! Breaking it down for me today for a short devotion….bearing fruit, increasing in knowledge of God; being strengthened with all power….(NOT according to my might but HIS might) and not just His might but His glorious might.

Now that is a promise worth holding onto for the rest of my days!

I have no strength apart from Jesus and I have no knowledge without the Word of truth shared in the bible. May the hope of these verses lift your spirit to a new level today just as a hearty meal from the garden will lift your stamina.

This sounds complicated because of three step process, but I assure you….it is easy. I chose to use Kale in this pesto only because I did not have basil on hand, and there is a LOT of it in the garden.

I’ve also used spinach in the past (LOVE THAT) it’s a little sweeter, but I like to keep things versatile so you can substitute and use what works for you. This is also one of those really good preparation day meals to cook ahead and eat later in the week.

There are so many benefits of kale with good amount of protein, rich in vitamins A, C, & K see this Healthline article for all the benefits!

Kale Pesto & Spaghetti Squash

Pesto

  • 1 Cup Fresh Kale (Spinach or Basil)
  • 1 Roasted clove of garlic (this gives a milder garlic flavor you can use fresh, but it will be strong!)
  • 2 Tablespoons of Romano Cheese
  • 1 Tablespoon of Sliced Almonds
  • 1/3 Cup Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1 Tablespoon of lemon juice
  • 1/4 Tsp Salt
  • 1 Dash of Pepper

Puree in a food processor until smooth.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees

Prepare Spaghetti Squash by washing well, cutting in half, scoop out seeds, sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder and onion powder, Bake one hour until tender. Meanwhile, prepare meatballs.

Meatballs

  • 1 Pound of lean ground beef (Turkey or Chicken)
  • 1/4 Cup finely chopped onions
  • 2 Tablespoons of Fresh Parsley
  • 1 Tablespoon Grated Romano Cheese
  • Sprinkle with garlic powder, salt and pepper ( I don’t measure this, it is to your own taste)

Roll into 1 inch balls and bake alongside squash for about 35-40 minutes.

When the squash is done, remove from oven and let cool until it can be safely handled. Carefully fluff with a fork to remove the flesh of the squash, add a little salt, pepper, and garlic powder as needed for flavor. Place in a container and add one tablespoon of the pesto. Mix well and top with meatballs. I added roasted asparagus. Delicious!

You’ll be more than ready to bear fruit in all your good work!