INGREDIENTS
1 lb beets, scrubbed
3 Tbsp sugar
2 tsp cornstarch
1/2 tsp powdered ginger
1/4 tsp sea salt
2 tsp lemon juice
1/4 cup raisins
2 Tbsp butter
DIRECTIONS
Place washed beets in a large saucepot with enough cold water to cover by about 2 inches. Cover and bring to a boil. Crack lid and reduce heat to a medium boil. Cook for 35 to 45 minutes, depending on size. Beets are fully cooked when they can be easily pierced with the tip of a sharp knife. Drain, reserving 3/4 cup of the cooking liquid.
When the beets are cool enough to handle, peel the beets by rubbing them gently with paper towels. The skin should slip off very easily. Use a paring knife to remove any stubborn skin spots and to cut off the stem and root end. Slice beets.
In a saucepan, combine sugar, cornstarch, ginger, and salt. Blend in 3/4 cup of water from beets and lemon juice. Add raisins. Cook over medium low heat, stirring, until thickened and bubbly. Add butter and sliced beets. Simmer until heated through, about 5 to 10 minutes.
Serves 4.
Green Earth Organics Inc. is a home and office certified organic grocery and natural product delivery service. We have a wide selection of 100% Certified Organic fruit, vegetables, and other grocery products. We also carry a growing list of environmentally friendly products that make it easier for our customers to tread lighter on our planet. This blog offers exiting information on organic food and healthy eating habits.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
From Our Newsletter : Is Harper “Going Rogue?”
OTTAWA – The Government of Canada is facing a landmark legal challenge in the country’s top court for failing to take action on global warming -- specifically for refusing to respect a federal law that requires reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, the Kyoto Protocol Implementation Act (KPIA).
It is the first climate change lawsuit in Canadian history, filed by eminent Canadian lawyer Chris Paliare and Ecojustice (formerly Sierra Legal) on behalf of Friends of the Earth Canada. “The case targets the fundamental question of whether the government is above the law,” said Ecojustice lawyer Hugh Wilkins. This case is crucial, as it will set precedent for whether the government can simply choose to ignore future laws, on climate change or other vital matters. For more information on this case, visit www.ecojustice.ca and www.foecanada.org
It is the first climate change lawsuit in Canadian history, filed by eminent Canadian lawyer Chris Paliare and Ecojustice (formerly Sierra Legal) on behalf of Friends of the Earth Canada. “The case targets the fundamental question of whether the government is above the law,” said Ecojustice lawyer Hugh Wilkins. This case is crucial, as it will set precedent for whether the government can simply choose to ignore future laws, on climate change or other vital matters. For more information on this case, visit www.ecojustice.ca and www.foecanada.org
From Our Newsletter : Logging the Northwestern Rain Forests…
…has many consequences. Including the loss of plant species like the bulbous agarikon mushroom (as seen in photo above). Scientists are studying the endangered agarikon for its medicinal properties. The University of Illinois-Chicago found the fungus to be extraordinarily active against XDR-TB tuberculosis, which is resistant to all known drug treatments. Other studies have found that agarikon has properties to combat flu viruses including, when combined with other mushrooms, bird flu, and possibly smallpox.
The bad news? Logging has razed the Pacific Northwest's old growth; less than 20 percent of our original forests still stand. And these mushrooms breed in the Pacific Northwest’s giant Douglas fir trees.
For more on this story from Alternet, visit: www.alternet.org
From Our Newsletter : Here’s to a Healthy 2010
If you find yourself making the same resolutions year after year, you’re not alone. The majority of New Year’s resolutions fail because they’re too broad (such as “be a better person”) or because they’re simply “wishes” and not goals we’re truly committed to.
“Resolutions” are easier to keep when you define a specific goal, and make sure it’s achievable, even if in incremental steps. The old adage is true: “Success begets success.” Each time you accomplish a goal you’re building confidence and making it easier to achieve future milestones.
As Green Earth Organics members, of course you’re already eating healthy. But here are a few ideas & reminders for a healthy 2010:
• Get more sleep. Studies show that not getting enough sleep disrupts both immune system and cognitive function. Generally adults need 7-8 hours of sleep. Children’s needs vary, with younger children needing at least 11 hours and tweens/teens ages 11-18 needing 8-10 hours.
• Take time to be thankful. Gratitude promotes a sense of wellbeing and confidence, and helps combat stress. Some people enjoy keeping a written list, listing one thing they are grateful for each day.
• Optimize your vitamin D levels. It’s impossible to avoid vitamin D deficiency living above the 35th parallel (as we do) because the angle of the sun to the earth means we get virtually no vitamin D rays between November and March. Ask your doctor to test your levels.
• Eat breakfast. Many people skip breakfast, but this meal really is essential to fuel your body and your brain for the day. And no, that latte on the way to work doesn’t count even if it does have as many calories as breakfast!
• Exercise regularly. This one can never be repeated enough: regular physical activity boosts brain function, improves mood, combats chronic disease and…it’s fun! A bonus: Walking or biking to your destination also helps lower your carbon footprint.
Rock Out with the “Flu Fighters”
While we’re talking about a healthy New Year, cold and flu season is in full swing. Here are some of the “Flu Fighters,” potent pathogen protectors found in fresh, whole foods:
Vitamin D: More and more is being discovered about vitamin D. Many scientists now believe there is a flu “season” because the body’s immune system is weakest when increased indoor activity (and lack of sun) depletes our body’s supply of vitamin D, a powerful foe of viruses. Supplementing with vitamin D is important, but be sure to discuss this with your doctor. Too much vitamin D from supplements can be toxic. Foods rich in vitamin D include fortified breakfast cereals, fortified butter and good ol’ organic eggs. You’ll find delicious options for both right here at Green Earth Organics.
Vitamin C: A very potent antioxidant; intravenous vitamin C was recently used by a physician in New Zealand to cure a man critically ill with swine flu. Look for a natural supplement source. Sugar interferes with the ability of your cells to absorb vitamin C. Vitamin C is water soluble, meaning excess is excreted and it is not stored in the body. Eating plenty of foods rich in vitamin C is a good idea during any season, but is especially important during cold and flu season. Foods rich in vitamin C include broccoli (surprise!), citrus fruits, mangos and papayas tomatoes, kiwi, red and yellow peppers, and potatoes. Canned fruits are rich in vitamin C too—look for delicious new canned organic papaya and other fruits from Native Forest when you place your GEO order!
Garlic: The “Superman” of illness fighting foods. Its many benefits include anti-viral, anti-tumor, anti-bacterial and pro heart health. The compound believed to be responsible for garlic’s pungent aroma, and its health benefits is allicin. Keep plenty of garlic on hand; it complements nearly everything.
Oregano Oil/Oregano: Carvacrol is the most active antimicrobial agent in oregano oil. The higher the carvacrol concentration, the more effective it is. Look for high quality supplements, and add fresh oregano to your favorite recipes.
Bubble, bubble…this remedy’s no trouble.
This home remedy isn’t a food, but it costs pennies and your editor swears by it. Within 12 to 14 hours after feeling “under the weather” (preferably immediately) try placing a few drops of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) into each ear. You’ll hear and feel some bubbling, maybe slight stinging. Wait until these subside (usually 5 to 10 minutes), then drain onto a tissue and repeat with the other ear. Try this before going to sleep if you feel like you’re “coming down with something.”
Don’t hesitate to email us at Green Earth Organics and let us know if this simple home remedy helps you.
“Resolutions” are easier to keep when you define a specific goal, and make sure it’s achievable, even if in incremental steps. The old adage is true: “Success begets success.” Each time you accomplish a goal you’re building confidence and making it easier to achieve future milestones.
As Green Earth Organics members, of course you’re already eating healthy. But here are a few ideas & reminders for a healthy 2010:
• Get more sleep. Studies show that not getting enough sleep disrupts both immune system and cognitive function. Generally adults need 7-8 hours of sleep. Children’s needs vary, with younger children needing at least 11 hours and tweens/teens ages 11-18 needing 8-10 hours.
• Take time to be thankful. Gratitude promotes a sense of wellbeing and confidence, and helps combat stress. Some people enjoy keeping a written list, listing one thing they are grateful for each day.
• Optimize your vitamin D levels. It’s impossible to avoid vitamin D deficiency living above the 35th parallel (as we do) because the angle of the sun to the earth means we get virtually no vitamin D rays between November and March. Ask your doctor to test your levels.
• Eat breakfast. Many people skip breakfast, but this meal really is essential to fuel your body and your brain for the day. And no, that latte on the way to work doesn’t count even if it does have as many calories as breakfast!
• Exercise regularly. This one can never be repeated enough: regular physical activity boosts brain function, improves mood, combats chronic disease and…it’s fun! A bonus: Walking or biking to your destination also helps lower your carbon footprint.
Rock Out with the “Flu Fighters”
While we’re talking about a healthy New Year, cold and flu season is in full swing. Here are some of the “Flu Fighters,” potent pathogen protectors found in fresh, whole foods:
Vitamin D: More and more is being discovered about vitamin D. Many scientists now believe there is a flu “season” because the body’s immune system is weakest when increased indoor activity (and lack of sun) depletes our body’s supply of vitamin D, a powerful foe of viruses. Supplementing with vitamin D is important, but be sure to discuss this with your doctor. Too much vitamin D from supplements can be toxic. Foods rich in vitamin D include fortified breakfast cereals, fortified butter and good ol’ organic eggs. You’ll find delicious options for both right here at Green Earth Organics.
Vitamin C: A very potent antioxidant; intravenous vitamin C was recently used by a physician in New Zealand to cure a man critically ill with swine flu. Look for a natural supplement source. Sugar interferes with the ability of your cells to absorb vitamin C. Vitamin C is water soluble, meaning excess is excreted and it is not stored in the body. Eating plenty of foods rich in vitamin C is a good idea during any season, but is especially important during cold and flu season. Foods rich in vitamin C include broccoli (surprise!), citrus fruits, mangos and papayas tomatoes, kiwi, red and yellow peppers, and potatoes. Canned fruits are rich in vitamin C too—look for delicious new canned organic papaya and other fruits from Native Forest when you place your GEO order!
Garlic: The “Superman” of illness fighting foods. Its many benefits include anti-viral, anti-tumor, anti-bacterial and pro heart health. The compound believed to be responsible for garlic’s pungent aroma, and its health benefits is allicin. Keep plenty of garlic on hand; it complements nearly everything.
Oregano Oil/Oregano: Carvacrol is the most active antimicrobial agent in oregano oil. The higher the carvacrol concentration, the more effective it is. Look for high quality supplements, and add fresh oregano to your favorite recipes.
Bubble, bubble…this remedy’s no trouble.
This home remedy isn’t a food, but it costs pennies and your editor swears by it. Within 12 to 14 hours after feeling “under the weather” (preferably immediately) try placing a few drops of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) into each ear. You’ll hear and feel some bubbling, maybe slight stinging. Wait until these subside (usually 5 to 10 minutes), then drain onto a tissue and repeat with the other ear. Try this before going to sleep if you feel like you’re “coming down with something.”
Don’t hesitate to email us at Green Earth Organics and let us know if this simple home remedy helps you.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Spinach Soup
INGREDIENTS
3/4 cup lentils
1/2 cup white rice
2 Tbsp flour
3/4 lb spinach, chopped
2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Turmeric
Sea salt
Pepper
1 egg, beaten
DIRECTIONS
Put 4 cups of water, lentils, rice, and flour in a pot. Cook on medium heat for 1 hour or until rice and lentils soften.
Add spinach and oil and then season with turmeric, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook for another 30 min. Add water if necessary.
Add the beaten egg to the soup and mix well. Cook for 5 minutes. Serve hot with a side of bread.
3/4 cup lentils
1/2 cup white rice
2 Tbsp flour
3/4 lb spinach, chopped
2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
Turmeric
Sea salt
Pepper
1 egg, beaten
DIRECTIONS
Put 4 cups of water, lentils, rice, and flour in a pot. Cook on medium heat for 1 hour or until rice and lentils soften.
Add spinach and oil and then season with turmeric, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook for another 30 min. Add water if necessary.
Add the beaten egg to the soup and mix well. Cook for 5 minutes. Serve hot with a side of bread.
Some New Year Reminders
Welcome to 2010 everyone!
As our members return from holidays and settle back into their routines, we wish to offer the following reminders to make sure that Green Earth Organics has smooth deliveries and that you get your bin of delicious produce just the way you want it.
The selection of produce changes weekly. The bin contents and new produce selections for the coming week are posted every Thursday evening on our website (vancouver.greenearthorganics.com). You can log on to our website any time after 6 PM on Thursday to start making changes to your next bin.
You are able to make up to four substitutions per delivery. The deadline for all substitutions, cancellations, and additional item requests is 9 AM the day prior to your delivery.
If you enjoy one of our wonderful grocery items, consider placing it on standing order. You can choose to have it with every delivery or with every second delivery, and you will save 5% every time! To set up a standing order for every delivery, just go to the "Standing Orders" page and add the items there. To set up a different standing order schedule, email the office at info@greenearthorganics.com or call us at 604-708-2345.
We offer several convenient payment options. Using a Visa or MasterCard, or being set up with Direct Debit, means that you never risk missing a payment. If you choose to pay by cash or cheque, please remember that payment is due upon delivery and that the delivery drivers do not carry change.
Whenever possible, please place your empty bins out in a safe area on the morning of your delivery for the driver to collect. Please have a look around for extra bins and cold packs.
If you have any questions or concerns, you can reach a member service representative at 604-708-2345. The office is open from 8 AM to 4 PM from Mondays to Thursdays, and from 8 AM to noon on Fridays. You can also email us at info@greenearthorganics.com.
We'd love to make your grocery shopping as easy and fast as possible so you have more time in 2010 for everything else that matters to you. Please let us know if there's anything we can do to make our service work better for you. Happy New Year!
As our members return from holidays and settle back into their routines, we wish to offer the following reminders to make sure that Green Earth Organics has smooth deliveries and that you get your bin of delicious produce just the way you want it.
The selection of produce changes weekly. The bin contents and new produce selections for the coming week are posted every Thursday evening on our website (vancouver.greenearthorganics.com). You can log on to our website any time after 6 PM on Thursday to start making changes to your next bin.
You are able to make up to four substitutions per delivery. The deadline for all substitutions, cancellations, and additional item requests is 9 AM the day prior to your delivery.
If you enjoy one of our wonderful grocery items, consider placing it on standing order. You can choose to have it with every delivery or with every second delivery, and you will save 5% every time! To set up a standing order for every delivery, just go to the "Standing Orders" page and add the items there. To set up a different standing order schedule, email the office at info@greenearthorganics.com or call us at 604-708-2345.
We offer several convenient payment options. Using a Visa or MasterCard, or being set up with Direct Debit, means that you never risk missing a payment. If you choose to pay by cash or cheque, please remember that payment is due upon delivery and that the delivery drivers do not carry change.
Whenever possible, please place your empty bins out in a safe area on the morning of your delivery for the driver to collect. Please have a look around for extra bins and cold packs.
If you have any questions or concerns, you can reach a member service representative at 604-708-2345. The office is open from 8 AM to 4 PM from Mondays to Thursdays, and from 8 AM to noon on Fridays. You can also email us at info@greenearthorganics.com.
We'd love to make your grocery shopping as easy and fast as possible so you have more time in 2010 for everything else that matters to you. Please let us know if there's anything we can do to make our service work better for you. Happy New Year!
GEO Collects Warmth for Those in Need
Throughout the year, Green Earth Organics facilitates numerous charity drives, making it easier for members to give back to the local community. During the month of January, drivers are collecting, in bins returned to the warehouse, warm blankets and sweaters that will be later dropped-off at the Covenant House.
Young people who come to the Covenant House face many barriers to independent, healthy living. Many life threatening situations await kids who end up on the streets as substance misuse, disease and violence are a daily reality of street life. Covenant House Vancouver welcomes an estimated 500-1000 young people aged 16 - 24 with open arms, hot food and a warm bed.
Healthy living and social responsibility are key for Green Earth Organics. By facilitating the donation of warm sweaters and blankets Green Earth hopes to lead by example, supporting young people in their choice to change their present circumstances.
Young people who come to the Covenant House face many barriers to independent, healthy living. Many life threatening situations await kids who end up on the streets as substance misuse, disease and violence are a daily reality of street life. Covenant House Vancouver welcomes an estimated 500-1000 young people aged 16 - 24 with open arms, hot food and a warm bed.
Healthy living and social responsibility are key for Green Earth Organics. By facilitating the donation of warm sweaters and blankets Green Earth hopes to lead by example, supporting young people in their choice to change their present circumstances.
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