The Kiwi: Emerald Elegance

The Kiwi: Emerald Elegance

The Kiwifruit

History of the Kiwifruit.

Originally discovered in the Chang Kiang Valley of China, kiwifruit was considered a delicacy by the great Khans who enjoyed the emerald green color and wonderful flavor. By the mid-1800s, the fruit had found its way into other countries and was nicknamed the Chinese gooseberry. New Zealand growers started to export this exotic fruit to specialized markets around the world.

Then in 1962, a California produce dealer began importing New Zealand gooseberries. The dealer renamed the product "kiwifruit" because of its resemblance to the fuzzy brown kiwi — New Zealand's funny-looking national bird. By the late 1960s, California began producing its own kiwifruit in the Delano and Gridley areas.

How to Eat A Kiwi

There's no "right" or "wrong" way to eat California Kiwifruit. But since most people find that slicing and scooping is a good way to get the most from their kiwifruit, we coined the word "slooping" to describe it! Here's how to sloop your kiwi:

Using a sharp knife, slice the kiwifruit lengthwise to create two identical halves. Then use a spoon to scoop the sweet, delicious meat of the kiwifruit from each half. Looking for maximum fiber and nutrition? Don't throw that skin away! It's loaded with nutrients and fiber, so rinse it off and bite right in! 

The kiwifruit is a rich source of Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, Vitamin K, and Fiber. It is low in calories, low in sodium, has no cholesterol, and only a small amount of fat. 


One Large Kiwifruit weighs about 3.5 ounces (100 grams) and provides the following nutrition.

Kiwi Mint Lemonade

Makes 4 servings 

If you don't have mint, try fresh lemon balm. The lemonade is also delicious without the herbs. 

Ingredients

1 cup (250 mL) water

 ½ (125 mL) cup granulated sugar

 ½ (125 mL) cup packed fresh mint leaves

 3 California kiwifruit

 3 lemons

 Sparkling water

Directions
1. In a medium saucepan, heat water with sugar over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally until sugar is dissolved. Simmer, uncovered, 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in mint leaves. Let stand 20 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, peel kiwifruit and cut into chunks. Puree in a food processor. Place puree in a pitcher. Strain cooled syrup into a pitcher, pressing on mint, then discard leaves. Refrigerate until cold. Squeeze juice from 2 lemons. Stir into kiwifruit mixture. Taste, squeeze in juice from remaining lemon for a tarter lemonade.

3. Pour into glasses. Top with sparkling water. Serve garnished with a slice of kiwifruit. Makes about 2¼ cups (550 mL) without sparkling water, enough for 4 drinks.

References.
1. Top 10 Ways to Enjoy Kiwifruit, Fruits and Veggies Kiwifruit

December 23, National Pfeffernüsse Day, a Traditional Christmas Cookie (modified)

Pfeffernüsse is a fluffy cookie with ground nuts and spices, popular as a Christmas treat in Germany, Denmark, and The Netherlands.

German Spice Cookies (Pfeffernüsse)

modified from Saveur

Yields: 3-1/2 dozen

Ingredients

1/2 cup honey

1/3 cup unsulfured molasses

2 tbsp. unsalted butter

2 large eggs, at room temperature

2 cups whole wheat pastry flour

1/4 cup candied lemon peel, finely chopped

1/3 cup almonds, finely ground

3/4 tsp. freshly ground cinnamon

3/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper (optional)

3/4 tsp. freshly ground cloves

3/4 tsp. freshly ground cardamom

1/2 tsp. baking powder

2 tbsp. vegetable oil

1 cup confectioners' sugar, sifted

1 tbsp. light rum

Directions

1. Put honey, molasses, and butter into a small pot and cook over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until hot, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool. Add eggs and whisk to combine.
2. Combine flour, half the lemon peel, almonds, cinnamon, pepper, cloves, cardamom, and baking powder into a large bowl. Add honey mixture and beat with a wooden spoon until mixed. Form into a dough. Cover the surface of the dough with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 8 hours.
3. Preheat oven to 350°F.
4. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper and set aside.
5. Lightly oil your hands with some of the oil. Form dough into 42 balls, each about 3/4" wide (the dough will be very sticky, so keep your hands lightly oiled while working).
6. Divide dough balls between baking sheets, keeping them spaced 1" apart. Bake until slightly cracked on top and firm to the touch, about 15 minutes.
7. Transfer cookies to a wire rack and let cool slightly.
8. whisk together confectioners' sugar, rum, and 5 tsp. Hot water to make a smooth glaze. While the cookies are still warm, use a pastry brush to coat each one with a layer of glaze.
9. Set cookies aside to let them cool completely. Eat right away or store in an airtight container, layered between sheets of waxed paper, for up to one week.

Nutritional Information

Ensure accurate nutritional analysis for your recipes utilizing an extensive research database and over 40 years of experience. A valuable service for the Recipe Blogger, Media, Cookbook Publishers, Writers, Chefs, and Recipe Websites. Your readers will benefit from the Nutrition information and a Registered Dietitian. Contact: Dietitians-Online.com; Sandra Frank, Ed.D, RDN, FAND at recipenews@gmail.com 

Whole Grain Date Nut Bread

Whole Grain Date Walnut Bread

Serves 12

Ingredients
1 cup chopped dates
1 cup boiling water
1 egg
3 tablespoons canola oil
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 1/2 cups whole wheat pastry flour
1/2 cup oat flour
2 tablespoons ground flax
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup chopped walnuts or your favorite chopped nuts

Directions
1. Heat the oven to 350 degrees.
2. Combine the dates and boiling water in a small bowl and let stand for 20 minutes.
3. In a medium bowl, briskly whisk the egg, oil, sugar, and vanilla together.
4. Combine the flour, flax, baking powder, soda, salt, and cinnamon in a large bowl.
5. Mix the dates with their liquid and egg mixture. Fold in the walnuts.
6. Pour mixture into a lightly oiled 9 x 5-inch loaf pan and bake for 50-55 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes clean. Let cool thoroughly before slicing.

Nutritional Information

Ensure accurate nutritional analysis for your recipes utilizing an extensive research database and over 25 years of experience. A valuable service for Recipe Bloggers, Media, Cookbook Publishers, Writers, Chefs, and Recipe Websites. Your readers will benefit from the Nutrition information and a Registered Dietitian. Contact: Dietitians-Online.com; Sandra Frank, Ed.D, RDN, LN at recipenews@gmail.com 

National Sangria Day - Winter Sangria

Winter Sangria

Yield: 10 servings (serving size: about 2/3 cup)

Ingredients

1 cup fresh satsuma orange juice (about 4 satsumas)
1 cup satsuma orange sections (about 2 satsumas)
1/3 cup Triple Sec (orange-flavored liqueur)
1/4 cup sugar 2 whole cloves
1 cinnamon stick
1 lemon, cut into 8 wedges
1 lime, cut into 8 wedges

1 (750-milliliter) bottle fruity red wine

Directions

1. Combine all ingredients in a pitcher, stirring until sugar dissolves.
2. Cover and refrigerate 4 hours or overnight.


Nutritional Information  

Calories 137 

Fat 0.1g 

Protein 0.3g 

Carbohydrate 17g 

Fiber 0.8g 

Cholesterol 0.0mg 

Iron 0.4mg 

Sodium 4mg 

Calcium 20mg

Sweet Taps: The Maple Syrup Story

Maple syrup is a syrup usually made from the sap of a variety of maple trees. The Canadian province of Quebec is the largest producer. Vermont is the largest producer in the United States.

Sweet Taps: The Maple Syrup Story

Regulations
· Maple syrup is graded according to scales based on its density and translucency. Sucrose is the most prevalent sugar in maple syrup.
· Canada, syrups must be at least 66 percent sugar and be made exclusively from maple sap to qualify as maple syrup.
· In the United States, the syrup must be made almost entirely from maple sap to be labeled as "maple".
· "Maple-flavored" syrups include maple syrup but may contain additional ingredients.
· "Pancake syrup", "waffle syrup", "table syrup", and similarly named syrups are substitutes which are less expensive than maple syrup

Uses
Maple syrup is often added to pancakes, waffles, French toast, fruit, ice cream, and hot cereal. It is used as a sweetener or flavoring agent in baking and in granola, applesauce, baked beans, candied sweet potatoes, winter squash, cakes, pies, and bread. Culinary professionals praise its unique flavor.

Nutrition
Maple syrup has a significant amount of manganese (13 grams = 22% DV) and contains potassium and calcium.

How It's Made - Maple Syrup


Reference: Wikipedia. Maple Syrup

Sip, Savor, Celebrate Hot Cocoa!

Taste pure coziness with a cup of steaming hot cocoa.

Save Calories and fat using Skim (non-fat) Milk 

instead of Whole Milk. You still receive the

benefits of calcium and vitamin D.

Skim /NonFat Milk

90 Calories

0 g Fat;

250 mg Calcium

124 IU / 3.2 mcg Vitamin D

Whole Milk

149 Calories

8 g Fat;

276 mg Calcium
124 IU / 3.2 mcg Vitamin D

The Difference Between Hot Cocoa and Hot Chocolate

Hot cocoa and hot chocolate differ in the type of chocolate used, consistency, and taste.

Hot cocoa
Made from cocoa powder, powdered milk, sweetener, and water or milk. Hot cocoa is thinner and sweeter than hot chocolate.

Hot chocolate
Made from grated chocolate, milk, cream, or water. Hot chocolate is thicker and creamier than hot cocoa.

The Polar Express, "Hot Chocolate Song" 

The Gingerbread House Building Sweet Memories

The holiday season is filled with traditions, and one of my favorites has always been building gingerbread houses. It’s a joyful activity that combines creativity, delicious treats, and the warmth of family. Over the years, Jake and I have shared many fun moments creating these edible works of art, each unique and filled with love.

The History of Gingerbread Houses

Gingerbread houses have a long and fascinating history that dates back to 16th-century Germany. Initially crafted into intricate shapes and decorations, gingerbread gained popularity at fairs and festivals. By the 19th century, the Brothers Grimm’s fairy tale Hansel and Gretel gave gingerbread houses a magical association, turning them into a beloved holiday tradition.

Our Gingerbread Houses Through the Years

1. The Sweet and Healthy Gingerbread House
One year, Jake and I decided to add a healthy twist to our gingerbread creation. We decorated it with peanut butter, raspberries, blueberries, dried apricots, and yogurt-covered raisins. It was colorful, delicious, and perfectly snackable—we made sure it was okay to nibble on the decorations as we worked!

2. The Hanukkah Gingerbread House

In another year, we created a Hanukkah-themed gingerbread house. Adorned with blue and white decorations, it blended the joy of gingerbread houses with the traditions of Hanukkah, making it a beautiful way to celebrate the season.

Tips for Creating Your Gingerbread House

1. Start Clean and Fresh
Before you begin, wash your hands thoroughly and ensure all fresh fruits and vegetables are cleaned. Keep perishable items in the refrigerator until it’s time to use them.

2. Let Your Creativity Shine
There’s no right or wrong way to build a gingerbread house. Experiment with candies, fruits, nuts, or savory elements to make it your own. The fun is in the process!

3. Enjoy the Journey
Building gingerbread houses isn’t just about the final result—it’s about spending time together, laughing, and creating memories that last long after the holiday season.

Why Gingerbread Houses Are Special

Gingerbread houses are more than just holiday decorations. They’re a way to connect with loved ones, honor traditions, and express creativity. Every house we’ve made has a story, a memory, and a sprinkle of holiday magic.

If you’re inspired to build your own gingerbread house this year, I encourage you to dive in, have fun, and savor every moment. After all, it’s not just about the house—it’s about the memories you build along the way.

Happy Holidays! 

#GingerbreadHouses
#HolidayTraditions
#BuildingSweetMemories

December 10, Human Rights Day Providing Nourishment is a Human Right

Human Rights Day presents an opportunity every year to celebrate human rights, highlight a specific issue, and advocate for the full enjoyment of all human rights by everyone everywhere.

"It is absolutely clear that we need to regain the universality of human rights, the indivisibility of human rights, and we need to find a new energy that motivates young people around the world." - Volker Türk, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.

2022 Theme: 

Dignity, Freedom, and Justice for All

In the decades since the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948, human rights have become more recognized and more guaranteed across the globe. It has since served as the foundation for an expanding system of human rights protection that today also focuses on vulnerable groups such as persons with disabilities, indigenous peoples, and migrants.

However, the promise of the UDHR, of dignity and equality in rights, has been under a sustained assault in recent years. As the world faces new challenges and ongoing – pandemics, conflicts, exploding inequalities, morally bankrupt global financial system, racism, climate change – the values and rights enshrined in the UDHR provide guideposts for our collective actions that do not leave anyone behind.

The year-long campaign seeks to shift the needle of understanding and action toward greater knowledge of the universality of the UDHR and the activism associated with it.

Imagine - Human Rights

Universal Declaration of 

Human Rights, Article 25 

(1) Everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of himself and his family, including food, clothing, housing, medical care, and necessary social services, and the right to security in the event of unemployment, sickness, disability, widowhood, old age or other lack of livelihood in circumstances beyond his control. 

(2) Motherhood and childhood are entitled to special care and assistance. All children, born in or out of wedlock, shall enjoy the same social protection.

  

December 3, International Day of Persons with Disabilities

The International Day for Persons with Disabilities 

From United Nations Enable
"Persons with disabilities make up an estimated 15 percent of the world’s population. Almost one-fifth of the estimated global total of persons living with disabilities, or between 110-190 million, encounter significant difficulties. Furthermore, a quarter of the global population is directly affected by disability, as caregivers or family members. 

U N I T E D   N A T I O N S

2024 International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD)

Since 1992, the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) has been observed annually on 3 December worldwide. This year's theme is "Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future." This theme recognizes the vital role that persons with disabilities play in creating a more inclusive and sustainable world for all. It also emphasizes the importance of their participation in decision-making processes that affect their lives.

This year's theme reflects the current international political and policy context, in particular the Pact for the Future and the upcoming 2025 World Summit for Social Development, and the need to create momentum for achieving the 2030 Agenda. The theme seeks to amplify the centrality of the leadership role of persons with disabilities in all of these efforts—from the global to the local.

The UN calls on domestic and international public health officials, political representatives, advocates, supporters, and every citizen in every community to learn from the experiences of people living with disabilities and push for more meaningful investments into the socioeconomic building blocks that will reduce the barriers faced by people with disabilities in every community on earth.

Assistive technology to facilitate

independent eating and drinking

The first video describes the feeding challenges of persons with disabilities and the advances in assistive technology. It does not endorse the Mealtime Partner Dining System, but the video shows good examples of challenging eating/feeding situations. 

Quadriplegic Eating Utensils

Resource.

United Nations Enable, International Day of Persons with Disabilities

Zucchini Fritters, on the Lighter Side

Zucchini Fritters are a great way to incorporate ​vegetables into your diet while enjoying a satisfying snack or side dish. Here's a general outline of the recipe to help you get started:

Ingredients
2 medium zucchini
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. Start by grating the zucchini using a box grater. Place the grated zucchini in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
2. After 10 minutes, squeeze the zucchini to remove as much moisture as possible. You can use a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth for this.
3. Transfer the squeezed zucchini to a large mixing bowl. Add the flour, Parmesan cheese, chopped green onions, and lightly beaten egg. Mix well until all the ingredients are combined.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large, non-stick skillet over medium heat.
5. Drop spoonfuls of the zucchini mixture into the skillet, flattening them slightly with the back of the spoon to form fritters. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Once cooked, transfer the fritters to a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.
7. Serve the fritters warm as a side dish or a snack.

Remember that providing nutrition analysis is an approximate value, and it may vary based on the specific ingredients used and the cooking method. Nonetheless, zucchini fritters are generally considered a healthier alternative to deep-fried snacks or sides and can be a nutritious addition to your meal. 

Thanksgiving Day Special Edition Safety, Healthy Choices, Vegetarian Ideas, Singing Turkeys with a Message and a Special Wish

How to Cook a Whole Chicken or Turkey

The only way to know food has been cooked
to a safe internal temperature is to
use a food thermometer.

Healthy Eating Tips for Thanksgiving

Controlling Thanksgiving Portion Size


Plan Meals Using
Portion Control to Minimize Waste

Vegetarian Thanksgiving Menu

Vegetarian Turkey

Protesting Turkeys

You Can't Gobble Me by the Turkey Singers.

A Thanksgiving Day Wish

“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget 

that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, 

but to live by them.” 

– John F. Kennedy

May your Thanksgiving be filled with special moments,
happy traditions, and the love of family and friends.

warm wishes, Sandra and Jake Frank

Thanksgiving Song
by Mary Chapin Carpenter

November 25, National Parfait Day

Parfait is a French term used to describe a dessert prepared by freezing a dish which is usually ice cream or cream-based dessert. The French meaning of parfait is “perfect.” Parfaits are prepared with a variety of dessert ingredients, such as fruits, ice cream, yogurt, gelatin, and nuts. The combination of ingredients is large as your imagination and is not limited to desserts. Popular in America is a breakfast parfait of yogurt, fruit, and cereal.

The American version of the parfait is prepared in a parfait glass. The ingredients are placed in layers one after the other and chilled before serving. The number of layers will vary based on the recipe. The parfait is an attractive dish and one can create wonderful combinations.
 

Sample of Ingredients.

Recipes.

Pumpkin Pie Parfait with Cranberry-Walnut Relish,

Vanilla Pudding Topped with Ginger Snap Crumbs
Great Recipe for Leftovers

Strawberry Parfait with Granola

Mango Parfait

Strawberry Shortcake Parfait

Red, White and Blue Parfait

National Sardines Day

National Sardines Day 

They can be purchased with water, oil, tomato sauce or mustard but they have been cleaned and cooked and are packed in an airtight container, and are ready for you to eat. Current dietary recommendations are to include fish in your meals at least twice per week. Fish high in omega-3 fats are salmon, albacore tuna (fresh and canned), sardines, lake trout, and mackerel.

 

Native American Heritage Month - Cranberries

When the European colonists arrived in North America, they discovered that Native American tribes enjoyed a tart, bright red berry growing wild in sandy bogs around New England. In fact, tribes across the continent's north harvested cranberries and ate them in combination with fats, meats, corn, and other berries, in addition to using them for medicine and dye. 

Cranberries are naturally fat and cholesterol-free. They provide vitamin C, fiber, and manganese.  Cranberries contain proanthocyanidins, a type of antioxidant that may reduce urinary tract infections.

Cranberries are a major commercial crop in certain American states and Canadian provinces. Most cranberries are processed into products such as juice, sauce, jam, and sweetened dried cranberries, with the remainder, sold fresh to consumers. Cranberry sauce is a traditional accompaniment to turkey at Christmas dinner in the United Kingdom and at Christmas and Thanksgiving dinners in the United States and Canada.

Nutrition Information.

Nutritional Analysis Services

Ensure accurate and cost-effective nutritional analysis for your recipes utilizing an extensive research database and over 30 years of experience. A great service for Recipe Bloggers, Media, Cookbook Publishers, Writers, Chefs, and Recipe Websites. Your readers will enjoy and benefit from the Nutrition information.

For more information, visit Dietitians-Online Nutritional Analysis Services

contact:
Sandra Frank, Ed.D, RDN, FAND
recipenews@gmail.com
954-294-6300