MORE WITH SPICES

Now as I promised quite a few days ago, I am continuing with the theme of spices. My absolute favourite spice is CINNAMON. Yes, you will notice it in a number of my recipes! The reasons for my affinity with cinnamon, apart from the taste, is the number of health benefits connected with this spice.
Take for instance, the relation of cinnamon to the control of blood-glucose levels. This is beneficial to diabetics, because cinnamon increases the insulin sensitivity of a person. Because it has a nutrient in it that mimics human insulin, control of blood sugar is more effective. Of course this means a few teaspoons full per day. But in the long run, even the blood cholesterol level improves and there are weight control benefits too.
So ... anyone for CINNAMON ??
Here is a recipe for muffins I KNOW you will love !!

PUMPKIN MUFFINS
1 and half c Sunflower Oil
2 c Sugar
4 Eggs
2 c Cooked mashed Pumpkin (Butternut)
3 c Flour, sifted
1 T Cinnamon
2 t Bicarbonate of Soda
1 t Salt
2 c Dry fruit mix or just Raisins

Beat oil, sugar & eggs together till creamy.
Add pumpkin and mix well.
Add all dry ingredients and fold in.
Lastly, add raisins and fold in.
Spoon into greased muffin pan. Makes 24.
Optional: Sprinkle with sesame or even pumpkin seeds.

These muffins stay fresh for a number of days. They can even be coated with the same icing used for Carrot Cake.
Now sit back with a mug of hot coffee or a cuppa tea and enjoy!!
Till later xx

SPICY MEAL

Here we go again. I have been making the following dish for many years and it is a family favourite. I have decided to share it with the world as it is a great vegetarian meal as well as economical. You can make just enough for 4 people or a great big pot full, like I have had to; with so big a family.
This recipe comes from my mom-in-law and is not so much a written recipe as a passed-on, learn-while-you-watch one. It can be varied according to taste. It keeps well, tastes even better the next day. In short, it is ... COMFORT FOOD. You just have to try it. I am sure you will LOVE it!
POTATO CURRY (for 4 people)
8 Potatoes, peeled & chopped into blocks
1 Onion, peeled and sliced
2T Oil for frying
4 Eggs, Hard boiled
1t Curry powder
1/4t Turmeric
Salt & Pepper to taste
Boil potatoes in more than usual water, so that there is still water left after cooked.
Fry onions slightly, add curry and turmeric. Leave on stove for another 2 min or so.
Peel boiled eggs and quarter.
When potatoes are just cooked through but not dry, add curry mix and eggs. Stir through and simmer for another 10min. Season to taste.
There must be a fair amount of liquid left in pot. Mash a few of the potato pieces to thicken the mix.
Serve with chunks of bread.
Yum! This is food to grow kids up on!
Give it a try and let me know what you think. Leave a comment. Till later then xx.

SPICE UP YOUR HEALTH

This is so cool! You can add spice to your life and improve your health at the same time! These are some of the fact that I have found out about spices:
Cinnamon – reduces blood pressure, stimulates circulation. Also used as a remedy for digestive problems. It accelerates digestion of fats, and protein by means of the enzyme, trypsin. Possesses antiviral properties.
Next, Nutmeg - Used in treatment for intestinal problems, specially diarrhea.
Now, Cumin – invigorates the digestive system, alleviates bloating and flatulence. Also used along with coriander & fennel in a tea to clear up acne.
Last for today, Turmeric - It has anti-inflammatory properties as well as being a natural antibiotic. Free radical scavenger, so powerful anti-cancer property. Acts as an anti cholesterol and improves intestinal flora.
Spices have been used for centuries in ancient cultures in treatments. Today they are available to everyone, easy to obtain and o, so tasty in our foods. More about herbs next time.... Till later xx