Nutty Food Critic

  International Desserts Alright, gather 'round, food lovers! We're embarking on a global dessert tour, featuring eight of the most beloved international sweets, with a slightly healthier twist. Get your aprons ready, and let's get baking! Important Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. I'll provide estimates for both the original and the honey/maple syrup versions. Disclaimer: While I'm aiming for healthier, remember that moderation is key, even with natural sweeteners. 1. French Crème brûlée (France) * Tone: Sophisticated, precise, and a touch dramatic. Ingredients: * 2 cups heavy cream * 1 vanilla bean, split lengthwise and seeds scraped (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract) * 5 large egg yolks * 1/2 cup granulated sugar (Original) / 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup (Substitute) * Pinch of salt * 2 tablespoons granulated sugar for brûléeing (Original & Substitute) Instructions: 1. Pr...

Pumpkins It's that time of the year to gear up on hot drinks (or even cold) winter drinks that smell and taste like fall!! Yesterday we made homemade hot apple cider, but today it is all about pumpkin spice!  Here are 10 pumpkin spice drink recipes that focus on natural sweeteners and avoid soy. I've included estimated nutritional information per serving, but please note that these are approximations and may vary based on specific brands and ingredient quantities used. I just bought some organic pumpkin spice, but I plan to make my own later when I run out, since I have the mix of ingredients to do that as listed below: General Notes: * Sweeteners: I'll primarily use maple syrup, honey, dates, and stevia as natural sweeteners. Adjust the amount to your personal preference. * Milk Alternatives: Use almond milk, coconut milk, oat milk, or cashew milk. Ensure they are unsweetened and soy-free. You can substitute skim, 2% or whole milk in place of nut milk, if you prefer,...

Chef preparing a low-uric-acid meal Here are 10 recipe ideas designed that may help reduce uric acid levels in the body since they are low-purine ingredient meals. Remember, managing uric acid is a holistic approach that includes a balanced diet, adequate hydration, and, if necessary, medication as prescribed by your doctor. These recipes focus on low-purine ingredients, anti-inflammatory components, and overall healthy eating. Always consult with your nutritionist or doctor about what will work best for you, especially if you are taking any medications.  I always check what foods/spices/supplements may interfere with any medication I take. I once planted lemon balm for tea, but found that it would not be a good idea for me to use it since it would interfere with the absorption of a medication I was taking at the time. I kept the plant, however, because it is useful for repelling pesky mosquitoes, flies, aphids, and spider mites. It might not get rid of all of them, but it certai...