Organic Valley is a cooperative of organic independent organic farmers. Yes, they’re national “big organic.” But they’re also “real organic.”
Organic Valley is a cooperative of organic independent organic farmers. Yes, they’re national “big organic.” But they’re also “real organic.”
n olive oil or water, salted and unsalted, or with marinara or lemon sauce. Rich in brain-healthy omega-3s. With capers, makes a salad into meal.
These lovely dariy-free shreds melt and streeeetch in the oven, and in the skillet. Soy- and gluten-free too.
Rich with organic coconut milk, sweetened with coconut sugar & honey, with tonic herbs and spices. These are really, really wonderful.
“Wrap your loved ones in beautiful soft scarves from Novica and Shupaca. Stay warm!” ~ Gregoria
“Baking pies so you don’t have to! Order yours today!” ~ Jeff and Nathan
This dessert takes 5 minutes to make. Raw foods. Superfoods. Antioxidant-rich goodness. It’s stunning, delicious, and you are absolutely going to want to make it for every special occasion.
Another of those super-easy fruit dishes, equally suited to the dessert table with ice cream, or the breakfast table with yogurt.
Inflammation hurts! Here we explore natural medicine that puts out the fire.
“Just in time for Halloween! Natural play makeup and face paint from Klee Kids for the trick or treaters in your life.” – Gregoria + Liz
“The Hen of the Woods, ‘Maitake,’ a rare woodsy treat to add flavor to your favorite stew or sauté.” – Alex “A Fall delicacy straight from the woods.” – Charles
Roasting the cauliflower on its own before the big bake with the beans, tomato sauce, and vegan cheese deepens and enriches the flavors.
Natural medicine absolutely SHINES at handling common respiratory viruses such as colds and flus. This stuff works. We’ll walk you through the basics.
RUNA’s mission is to improve livelihoods for indigenous farmers in the Amazon. “We believe people everywhere can benefit from the bounty of the rainforest without destroying it.”
Golden orange if you use carrots. Ruby red if you choose beets. Parsnips are a third option, if you want beige… Another dish that’s hard to pin down to a single culinary tradition. Shades of India, Indonesia, Bulgaria… and 1960s health foods stores!
It is becoming increasingly obvious that a high calcium intake is not the solution for osteoporosis. It isn’t how much calcium we get, but how well we use it. Calcium management nutrients not only help calcium go to the right places, but also keep calcium out of the wrong places.
“Luna & Larry’s Organic Coconut Bliss in Salted Caramel & Chocolate is simply delectable! Non-dairy and soy-free, too!” … Debbie
“I’m excited about these new organic sundae cones and ice cream sandwiches from Three Twins Ice Cream. Sitting in the grass on a hot summer day with a chocolate chip
“MyKind Organics Men’s Multi: Certified USDA Organic, non-GMO, vegan, gluten-free multi made from real whole food! Specifically for men under 40 with 30 organic fruits, vegetables and herbs. So good
RUNA, a clean energy drink with Guayusa from the Amazon. RUNA’s on sale, and there’s an extra 10% off when you buy a case. Come in to enter our RUNA-cycle
Eggplant Caviar is a kind of chopped salad native to Russia, Armenia, Bulgaria, etc. We’ve added green peas for a shock of green, and an apple for sweetness.
After decades of being told to simply “take more” calcium, we now have convincing evidence there may be such a thing as “too much.” We go through the research. The safe and effective dose may be less than you think!
berries and cream. Roasted, salted pistachios add a flash of green, and nuggets of crunch.
We have bone broth and it’s Epic! Up to 10 grams of protein in each serving and available in three delicious flavors: homestyle savory chicken, turkey cranberry sage, and beef
Feeling hot, hot, hot? Beat the heat with the new Nano-Ice Necklace! Pop in the freezer for a couple of hours, tie it on, and you’ll be the coolest “kid”
The addition of Masala Chai mix to the fruit adds a little something special to this otherwise pretty-darn-special cobbler. You can also sub in apricots or nectarines for the peaches. Just slice, mix, top, and bake.
You can make your own diet icy beverage using only natural ingredients. If you use mineral water, you get not just a natural diet soda, you get a natural diet *mineral* soda!
With all the turmoil in the world, all the violence, all the hatred, I was thinking about how to make the world a better place. I was thinking about things that are important to me, remembering Tip O’Neil…
Take about 3 pounds wonderful, heirloom tomatoes of all sizes, colors and flavors…
Eggs. Coffee. Chocolate. Salt. Coconut. Bacon may be too much to hope for…
Another recipe from our cooking show, Eat Well Be Happy, streaming from this website and natural food stores around the country. Asian flavors + garden vegetables.
Another easy-to-make, easy to travel salad. It also keeps for 3-4 days. And this one gets you to eat more beans, which Dr. Furhman says is a good thing. Beans fill you up, not out!
Simple answers are easy and comforting, but they are rarely accurate or complete. They don’t account for individual differences in fitness, reproductive status, metabolic function, medical history, genetic predisposition, time of day, time of month, and time of life. They don’t tell you the whole story, and they don’t listen to your story.
Tea-rrific Ice Creams. No gums, no fillers, just wonderful ice cream the old fashioned way. Infused with teas. Lovely, and featured in the Boston Globe! … Debra
Olivegevity Armonikon extra virgin olive oil. Product of organic farming, where each tree is regarded as sacred and olives are harvested the old-fashioned way. … Debra
Matiz Gallego sardines. Artisan fishing methods and old master cannery. Oh so flavorful. Try with lime. Featured in Bon Appetit too! … Debra
Farro is an heirloom wheat, earthy and rich. Kale adds green. Pecorino romano cheese adds salt and bite. Simple, comfort food. On a higher plane.
A good smoothie has a lot more in it than just fruit. Ingredients that add flavor, texture, and supercharged nutrition — if you use them right. Here, we talk about Bee Pollen, Cacao, Chia, Probiotics, Coconut Oil, and Maca Powder
“Debra’s can’t wait to try some new heirloom veggie seeds. Have you tried red celery, scarlet kale, Ananas Noire tomato?”
The natural products industry occasionally honors one of its own for outstanding contributions to the industry — but more so, to the movement. This year, Debra was honored.
You don’t need a traditional dressing when you have high-quality olive oil, and a few forkfuls of cultured veggies.
A good smoothie has a lot more in it than just fruit. Ingredients that add flavor, texture, and supercharged nutrition — if you use them right. Here, we talk about protein powders, frozen fruit, greens powders, and fish oil.
This essential mineral is crucial to healthy bones. Plus it can help with leg cramps, anxiety, high blood pressure, migraines headaches, and constipation, too.
Bi Bim Bap is the national dish of Korea. It looks like a lot of work, but it’s actually not complicated. Just a lot of different vegetables, arranged on top of rice, with eggs + special sauce. And DELICIOUS!
Since we first published this recipe (adapted from a blog post by Sarah Briton), we began making the bread in our kitchen. It has become one of our customer’s all-time favorites. All fiber, healthy fats, and proteins. No grains, almost no carbs.
You don’t need to be medically constipated to be just… a little backed up. It happens to everyone.
Raw Avocado Almond Pie – “Freeze it & it’s like ice cream! Made in our kitchen with lots of love.” … Casey
“The best sauerkraut I’ve ever had! I eat it right out of the jar. Made right here in Massachusetts.” … Savannah
“Chai is my favorite tea–so glad they made it into an ice cream. Delicious & flavorful.. I haven’t had anything else like it!” … Emma
“Lovely toasted. It’s a staple in our house & my kids love it! Great for people with allergies.” … Melissa
Use butternut, or any firm-flesh winter squash. Black beans add protein and a little something to chew on.
According to Dr. Mark Hyman, family physician and a four-time New York Times bestselling author, we’re battling a “diabesity” epidemic. Diabetes + Obesity.
Starrylights are hand-made, hand-painted luminaries (each one is deliciously different). We are so lucky to have found Beth, whose creations these are! With a votive candle lit inside, they dance
I love Nova Scotia Fisherman’s Xtreme Skin Care lotion really works for dry hands. Oh, did I forget to mention that it smells nice too? … Gregoria
Monsanto will sue people at the drop of a hat. But now they’ve been challenged.
Remarkably simple. Simply remarkable. Just two lovely ingredients, roast with lemon, olive oil, and garlic.
It doesn’t get easier than this. 100% raw. 100% unrefined sweeteners. 100% healthy oils.
A is for Acne, B is for Bruises, C is for Canker Sores… This month, the lazy Health Writer will relax by not doing research, not using complete sentences, not justifying or explaining his recommendations, not citing sources, and not going into depth. Enjoy!
Two recipes in one. You get the orange+green Squash & Pesto. And then you get the leftover pesto, for… whatever. Fresh green herbs and hempseeds are both veritable superfoods. This is a powerhouse dish!
Demystifying the multisyllabic world of omega-3 fats. What kinds? How much? And, what if you don’t eat fish?
Smell can trigger memories, emotion, creativity, and can help heal. This science of smell and how it affects us is called “aromatherapy.”
Gosh, hard for me to pick one favorite. For the Thanksgiving table, I love Stoger pumpkin seed oil to drizzle on salads with a handful of pumpkin seeds. Great on
“We all love what comes out of our amazing kitchen … everything is a favorite!!” When planning your Thanksgiving feast, don’t forget to order that special something … here is
Crampbark (the best remedy to ease menstrual cramps) and red raspberry leaf tea is my savior every month! … Savanah
I loved this when I read it in the Natural Foods Merchandiser back in 2003, and love it still today! It reminds me that we’re not as smart as we
As much vegetable as grain. A fusion of flavors. Wild rice from the Minnesota lake region. Olive oil from the Mediterranean. Sushi ginger & soy sauce from Japan. Subtle sweetness from the carrots…
Good oils are like good spices. No good kitchen should be without them. I’m not going to try and cover every oil, just the six I use in my kitchen.
a pinch or two of warming spice, rich healthy fats, and honey transform toast into a delectable treat.
Chewy + crunchy + fresh. Egyptian grains + English vegetables + mild Thai flavors. Another fusion dish from the Debra’s kitchen.
Whether or not you’re a “health nut,” you should know about cooking fats. Ride out the trends, secure in the truth.
“Grass-fed whey is one of my favorite superfoods. Boosts immune function, increases youthful vitality and more!” … Jay
“Pecan Shop Native Pecans – a true, wild food. First, they’re delicious. So clean and fresh and sweet! Native, wild pecans are also less than half the size of “improved”
“With the flavor intensity of sun-dried tomatoes, reinforced with rich sesame oil and the bright pungency of Tamil spices, this is currently my favorite thing on Earth!” -Adam
Got red, dry, flaky, itchy skin? You may be one of 15 million Americans who suffer from a non-contagious skin condition called eczema. Borage seed oil can help.
“We all have fond memories of special food. When my family made the trek each summer to NYC, we always ate in Ratner’s, a famous Jewish deli founded in 1905 …”
Of all the changes we have wreaked on traditional diets over the last hundred years, our drastic reduction in fiber intake might very well be the most significant. The impact on our health — our weight, our hearts, our long-term disease risk — are profound.
Another appetizer that’s easy to make, using quality ingredients, that will have your guests going “what a clever idea! — and DE-licious!”
Flower growers have used blackstrap molasses to get stronger, longer lasting blossoms for ages. Molasses supplies trace minerals along with bio-available sugars that feed plants. Milk, too, is a soil
Why research on natural medicine is often “better” and “cleaner” than research on pharmaceuticals
From a 2005 Debra’s Natural Gourmet newsletter. I still find it interesting, sez Debra! In Jack Challem’s book, Feed Your Genes Right, Mr. Challem says nutrition feeds our genes, which
When you’ve got a turbo blender, all you need to make this is fruit (and a little cinnamon) (and a little stevia).
Asparagus is a harbinger of Springtime. Eggs symbolize rebirth.
Athletes, and the rest of us — we’re learning to take concussions seriously now. Natural medicine can help.
Two ancient grains, with salty oil-cured olives, and sweet-tart dried cherries.
Been told by your dentist that you need gum surgery because you have periodontal disease and have deep pockets in your gums? You might want to try something old-fashioned before
Recipes include the Classic Berry, the The Choco-Banana-PB’Splosion, the Bird of Paradise, Swamp Thing, and Turkey Day (which does not contain turkey).
Thanks to those of you who came to our olive oil tasting that snowy February evening! Did you know that real olive oil is simply the juice pressed from the
Our television cooking show, Eat Well Be Happy, is releasing four new shows in March. We are having fun! And we’re happy to announce that Eat Well Be Happy is
This is a snap to make, and a colorful, cleansing salad (it’s the beets and ginger). Lemon *and* lime juices add complexity of flavor.
We’re settling this once and for all! More than just “rules,” we’re going to tell you WHY…
What is halvah? Halvah is a quintessential dessert in the Eastern Mediterranean, Middle East, and India — as much a part of these cuisines as ice cream and apple pie are to America’s.
The daily energy that gets us out of bed with a spring in our steps and a twinkle in our eyes; that maintains our focus throughout the day; that keeps us lively even after work, and the kids are put to bed.
Crooked Row organic farmer, Elena Colman, has ordered some pretty strange, exotic-sounding seeds that many of us can’t wait to try. Of course we have the tried and true veggie
Staffer Jocelyn sent this email, “A customer who just bought castor oil waxed eloquent about your protocol for dry eyes. She said she’d tried everything for chronically dry eyes, and
The tried-and-trues and strange, exotic-sounding seeds. I grew ground cherries last year and fell in love (they’re easy to grow, taste great; kids love ‘em!) Another thumbs up: a trailing
Our kitchen makes this lovely soup, and you’re right that it doesn’t appear in our cookbooks, so we’re sharing it with you here even though it’s proprietary. We’re trusting you with a “secret” recipe because we love you.
Tofu, you can buy anywhere. But sausages — and nine other things — you should really buy in a health food store!
The mad rush is over and the holidays have come and gone. To get back on track, here’s a gentle detox, which is a modified fast. Start off every day
Another soup for winter. This one has ginger, to aid digestion, and sweet carrots. Red lentils are unlike the brown lentil you might know. They dissolve when you cook them.
When did we start expecting cornbread to taste sweet like cake? When did we start adding other flours in addition to corn meal? This recipe makes a rustic, real-deal cornbread that is not sweet.
We love that you are watching Eat Well Be Happy, our cooking show. If your public access TV station isn’t airing, ask them to because you pay for programming with
Digestive enzymes help us digest food, for comfort, and for better nutrient absorption. Not to mention they can help with gas and bloating, reflux, etc.
Made here with full-fat coconut milk so it’s dairy free. I also love this recipe with cow or goat milk.
A shortcut to Indian food. We used canned chickpeas, and a spice packet. You add oil, and your own optional vegetables. Just heat and eat!
We were thrilled to be awarded 2014 Retailer of the Year (Community Engagement) at Natural Product Expo East. A quarter century as your natural market, and now the 2014 Retailer
Mark your calendar – Debra’s Natural Gourmet Turns 25! Birthday Party and Non-GMO FOOD FAIR, Saturday October 18. 10:00-2:00. We will have birthday cake and ice cream, of course, but
The traditional Ethiopian pancake bread uses a sourdough fermented batter, and the gluten-free grain, T’eff. It’s easier than you think!
Can natural medicine make you smarter? Can it help with dementia, like Alzheimer’s? There are mountains and mountains of research out there. And that research is, for the most part, highly nuanced, and still inconclusive.
For those of you who have been asking, we have more Vitamix 7500’s on the way, and you, too, can reserve a black, white or red one at the extraordinary
Are you watching our television cooking show on your public access TV station? Let us know because soon we’re going to launch a chance to win something if you watch
(Eden Foods Puts Their Money Where Their Mouth Is, and Now We Wish They’d Put Their Foot Where Their Mouth Is, But We Still Will Not Boycott Eden Foods) In
Eat Well Be Happy, our great new cooking show on Public Access TV is airing happily in many towns. Now in Concord (showing Monday at 5:00, Wednesday at 9:00, Thursday
A bit of fresh pear or mango adds natural sweetness to this cooling summer soup. Avocado adds richness. This is really a salad — masquerading as a soup.
No longer “the disease of kings,” this painful affliction can strike any of us. Natural medicine to both prevent and address gout symptoms.
“Combining tomatoes and watermelon seems to be all the rage today. Typically such recipes call for adding feta cheese too, but I skip that because I think the feta makes the salad look messy.”
Did you know that flower growers have used molasses to feed the blooms for decades in order to get stronger and longer lasting blossoms? Molasses supplies trace minerals along with
This just in from the Boston Business Journal: Harvard University School of Engineering and Applied Science got a $10 million grant from the National Science Foundation to run a five-year
Cordyceps mushroom is a rare, high-altitude medicinal treasure to maintain endurance and lung function. Creatine is a dietary supplement to increase muscular force.
This is an easy one — but your guests won’t know. Just soak the chia, chop the fruit, and layer in a nice glass.
Also known as Sabich in throughout the middle east, this combo of baked (or fried) eggplant, eggs, vegetables, and hummous is a winner every time.
Thank you to everyone who shopped the day before Mother’s Day, a benefit day for Vitamin Angels. We were able to send Vitamin Angels a check that allowed them to
Painful heartburn is an occasional pitfall for enthusiastic eaters. Or an everyday fact of life for others. Either way, natural medicine can put out the fire.
Rooibos Tea Rooibos tea is red tea from South Africa, and we’ve carried it since 2001. We love all our organic rooibos teas (we have bulk red tea and red
We’ve got shows in the can. Local friend, Nancy Kaplan, has played the music for our theme song. My brother, David Stark, has done some fun graphics, and we’re shooting
Many of you, our customers, are fabulous cooks. How do we know? Well, over the years, we’ve all exchanged recipes and cooking ideas and they’ve been great. So, to celebrate
Allergies are the result of a healthy, robust immune response — at the wrong time. You attack pollen or animal dander like it’s a dangerous invader. Sneezing and hives ensue…
all the colors of redness: ruby, crimson, scarlet, and coral.
Dushenka Ani Silverfarb is cookbook author The Model Vegan, and a favorite customer. This is her creamy almond milk recipe.
Cultured veggies are sort of like pickled veggies, except better and more delicious. Instead of preserving vegetables by pickling them in vinegar, culturing involves live healthy bacteria – sort of like the bacteria that turn milk into yogurt.
We sell cleanse kits where you take the herbs, follow some simple instruction, and can keep eating pizza. This one, though, isn’t just a cleanse, but a reset for the entire diet. AND — you won’t be hungry.
Dukkah comes from the Arabic word for “to pound.” Traditionally made from pounded sesame seeds, salt, and savory spices, we make ours in the food processor.
We had a great run with Benbow’s Coffee Roasters out of Maine. And we’re still going to keep many of the old flavors in bags for you die-hard fans. But
The foods will be different, but they’ll taste the same. Sound too good to be true? Read on…
I found this simple recipe for koji (Japanese gruel) in my files at home and it reminded me that sometimes the simplest foods are what do a body good. That
Sweet potatoes, black beans, kale, warming spices, and sausage add up to a deeply comforting (but not too caloric) winter meal. Avocado and lime round it out.
Magnesium stearate is a natural additive in most tablets and capsules on the market today. Some people claim it is toxic…
As we explore the cuisines of the world, we sometimes forget the Native American traditions. Succotash’s colors look like autumn. But its warming, hearty sweetness is perfect for deepest winter.
If you’ve never dipped fruit in chocolate, you should! And if you use dried fruit, it will keep days and days.
Like you, I was sad to read that Dabbler’s, a store in West Concord, is going out of business. And I grieve that others in our surrounding communities may have
We were so pleased to read our name on the Boston Globe’s Top 100 Women-Led Business list.We couldn’t have gotten there without each and every one of you! May 2014
IIn the spirit of the essay above, I managed to buttonhole these four bodyworkers in the store (and I know there are tons more excellent bodyworkers in the area, so
Children with colds are an especial challenge. They can’t always communicate much, except being PROFOUNDLY UNHAPPY. Plus, the remedies have to taste good.
If you’ve never used buckwheat, you really should. This gluten-free grain is earthy and hearty, and pairs remarkably well with earthy, hearty vegetables like mushrooms and Brussels sprouts.
This makes a wonderful pie or tart filling. It’s also a wonderful chutney-like “compote” served with a dollop of whipped cream, ice cream, etc.
Well-researched, effective, and safe.
Ceviche typically means raw seafood marinated in citrus juice and hot peppers. Here, we’re marinating veggies and stealing the word because we like the concept, the way it sounds!
Debra’s long op-ed on genetically modified foods ran first on the Concord Journal.
Warfarin is the generic name for Coumadin(Tm), a common anti-clotting drug. Patients are often told they need to avoid vitamin K when they’re on Coumadin. But that turns out to be bad advice.
Kelp noodles are made from the fiber in seaweed. They are a chewy “blank canvas” with almost no calories. Here, we paint that canvas with roast cashews, olives and garlic, brocolli florets, and brewer’s yeast.
Pumpkinseed oil is one of the deepest, darkest, earthiest flavors you can add to your cooking. Make sure you get the real Austrian (Styrian) stuff.
According to nationally reknowned, locally-based Dr. Mark Hyman, family physician and a four-time New York Times bestselling author, we’re battling a “diabesity” epidemic.
I loved this when I read it in the Natural Foods Merchandiser back in 2003, and love it still today! It reminds me that we’re not as smart as we
Thanks to Adam, we’ve been enjoying this recipe for some years now. I run the recipe each summer. It can also be found in our third cookbook, Blue Ribbon Edition.
A perfect Mediterranean salad! It’s gorgeous to look at and delicious to eat.
One of our very rare posts where we partner with a supplement company, to recommend their products. But Vitanica is more than a supplement company; it’s Dr. Tori Hudson’s company…
You understand soluble vs. insoluble fiber. You know how to seek out fiber-rich foods. Now, here are four supplements to your diet.
This is a variation of Amanda’s Green Potato Salad with Cilantro and Spinach featured in our Blue Ribbon Edition cookbook.
Which kind of fiber is best for weight control, blood sugar, regularity, and cholesterol.
Wondering how to avoid genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in your food, worried about the new reports that show our gut flora are being affected by them? The short answer is,
This soup is light, light, light, but the parsnip gives body, and together with the asparagus and celery yields a lovely, complex flavor.
Fiber is arguably our most-important-yet-least exciting nutrient. Does it really prevent cancer and heart attacks? Help us lose weight? Keep us from feeling tired? Detox the liver? Make the world a better place? And what about soluble vs. insoluble fiber?
EFFECTIVE JULY 1. Including the senior citizen discount (a.k.a. “Wisdom Discount.”) There’s good news, and bad news. More good news than bad news, for most of us. The good news
Thank you to everyone who shopped the day before Mother’s Day, a benefit day for Vitamin Angels. We were able to send Vitamin Angels a check that allowed them to
This recipe is equally delicious with chicken, seafood, and tofu. Preserved lemons and olives are a classic flavor combination in both Persian and Moroccan cuisine.
Amidst the buying and selling and marketing, the big natural products trade show had some oases of traditional herbalism.
Sumac is a fruit with a lemony taste. Used as a spice in the Middle East, the berries are ground into a purple powder that not only adds flavor, but eye appeal.
Curries are wonderful ways to empty your fridge of leftovers. A can of this, some chopped-up that… the curry spices and coconut milk are very forgiving!
Shingles, cold sores, mono & chicken pox are all outbreaks of the herpes virus. We can treat outbreaks, and strengthen the immune system to prevent them.
“I’m in the mood for ice cream, and this is like a big bowl of soft, melty blueberry ice cream without the guilt or calories. I’ve been eating this every morning lately…”
Is there really an herb for this? How quickly does it work? And how can we slip it into Bob’s coffee without him noticing?
Most of you are familiar with my article on dry eyes and castor oil. (If you’re not, talk to me!) You know I’m a castor oil fan and always have
We use winter squash flesh, toasted squash seeds, and toasted squash seed oil as a drizzle. Sweet, creamy, savory, earthy, and crunchy — all from the same vegetable.
Never before have we written for the sole purpose of criticizing a specific drug, or pharmaceutical company.
The Boston Business Journal’s Top 100 Women-Led Business list has our name on it again this year. We are so pleased, and we know we couldn’t have gotten there if
The labeling of genetically engineered food. California voters rejected Proposition 37 by 53.1% to 46.9%. Chemical and food company giants outspent proponents 10 to 1 during the campaign. Gary Hirshberg,
Debra Stark (published originally in 2002!) Don’t you wonder why everyone doesn’t get sick when the cold and flu is going around? It boils down to how healthy your immune
Greek-style sauteed mushrooms are a wonderful weeknight side dish alongside almost anything. Put those mushrooms on toast, and it suddenly transforms into a very-classy-indeed appetizer.
Paleo means no grains, no beans, no refined anything — just fruit, nuts, chocolate, etc… anything a caveman or woman could pluck and eat. Believe it or not, these brownies qualify!
This salad makes a sage addition to the holiday table. Not only is it easy to make, pretty to look at, but it will help everyone’s tummy feel better too. I’ve used Real Pickle’s cultured beets and red cabbage both.
What are GMOs? Genetic Modification (GM) is when genes from one specie of bacteria, viruses, insects, animals or even humans, are forced into the DNA of another species.
Is high fructose corn syrup really worse than plain white sugar? Does vitamin C actually cure a cold? Is coffee good for you?
If you’re like us, you’re not an expert Spring Roll Assembler, and you’ll have a few tears in the delicate spring roll paper. That’s okay! And may we say, the (optional) curry powder in this recipe is a stroke of genius.
A good night’s sleep is absolutely foundational to good health. Without it, we see an increase in heart disease, brain disease, weight gain, depression, lowered immunity, and wrinkles.
Jambalaya is a New Orleans take on paella: rice, vegetables, seafood and sausage, with French, Native American, and Carribean influence. You could serve it as a side, but its heart and soul is as a one-pot meal.
We loved the way The Wool Pack in Acton introduced their Point of Sale System (POS) to their customers. Here’s what they said, “The tables have turned, figuratively speaking. For years,
Irritable Bowel Syndrome is more common than you might know. Alternating constipation and/or diarrhea, often (but not necessarily) worsened by stress.
Gazpacho with tomatoes is relatively new, believe it or not. Here I’ve used lemon and/or lime instead of vinegar, and saved tomatoes to slice and plate with fresh mozzarella.
An ode to the humble lentil, from our resident Poet Laureate of All Things Culinary, Debra Stark.
What kind of salmon are you eating? Thomas May, a writer we’ve met at trade shows, wrote an article entitled, Farmed Salmon Found Higher in Pollutants, which says don’t eat
Elena Volkova made this in our store, and everyone loved it. There’s perfect balance between sweet and salty, and Elena says if you’re taking the Chinese approach, this is wonderful over bitter, dark greens.
This salad keeps everyone happily chewing, which means you get the pleasure of each other’s company around the table for longer than it takes to wolf down a burger and fries.
Antioxidants are the protective compounds that protect our cells from “rust.”
Bi Bim Bap is a Korean dish like a stir-fry, except you don’t stir-fry things together. And then you put an egg on top. Plenty of veggies, whole grain rice, kimchee… and an egg on top.
Rich, dense chestnut flour is a good source of fiber and protein — and 100% gluten-free. Olive oil and rosemary add flavor. Pine nuts are optional, but highly recommended.
Cold-brewed coffee is a a treat even for the snobbiest of coffee snobs — and it’s EASY — and it’s low acid, so it’s easy on the digestion, too.
Let’s not jump right to angioplasty. Stable heart disease can be treated by diet, lifestyle, and supplementation.
A profoundly beneficial tonic herb for stamina and wakefulness.
Keofta (or Kofta) are meatballs. Here, we replace with meat with split peas and cracked wheat and carrots and onions and celery. Golden raisins and paprika add a hint of smoky sweetness.
Potato salad does not need to be a starchy, gloppy, mayonnaise-infested stew. Here, we use fingerling potatoes, young arugula, goat cheese, oil-cured black olives — and ZERO mayonnaise.
Internal cleansing is one of the most time-honored concepts in traditional medicine — and in modern health food-stores. We bridge the gap.
The issue of arsenic contamination in rice was raised. We felt it needed to be addressed.
I made this on New Year’s Day, and it was a hit. People asked for the recipe, though one person said she couldn’t believe “those ugly mushrooms could taste that good!”
Which marine omega-3 is going to win the throwdown? Efficacy, sustainability, and cost.
This is a gloriously unimaginative, pedestrian, almost boring take on the classic lentil soup. Which is sometimes, exactly what we need! Serve with a thick slice of bread, and a thick slab of butter.
Not only herbs and supplements that can turn the tide, but surprising research on fatty foods, sugar, and milk.
Different kinds of lentils dissolve (or don’t dissolve) at different rates. Combine them all in a soup, you get something to intact, something soft… a variety of textures, and plenty of leguminous nutrition!
The quintessential English Christmas dish. The traditional recipe has been updated with coconut oil instead of lard.
Why was I struggling to find something that uses whole sesame tahini? Whole sesame tahini is a nut butter made from the entire brown seed. This is important.
We use use dried figs, because they’re available year-round, and they keep just about forever. You can always use fresh figs, though… Just make sure to eat them within a day or two of dipping.
“When I was a child and had an upset stomach, my mother used to make me a hot drink that helped tremendously.”
We make vitamin D when our skins are exposed to sunlight. The health effects of this “sunshine vitamin” are far-reaching and profound.
Just a decade ago, dose recommendations for vitamin D ran around 1,000 iu a day. Now, often, they’re 2,000, 5,000, and even 10,000… what changed?
This vegan wonder requires no cooking, and almost no prep. Just blenderize the organic, vegan superfoods, and then chill. You chill, and the dessert chills too.
A mildly sweet, somewhat savory hash, using crisp tart apples instead of potatoes. Use a well-seasoned cast iron skillet.
“Yams (or sweet potatoes) are one of my favorite foods. And they’re #2 on the Center for Science in the Public Interest’s list of veggies in terms of overall nutrient content.”
It’s all about simple. This is tres simple and tres delish. If you haven’t discovered kelp noodles or Austrian pumpkinseed oil, well, now’s your chance.
Nutrition that fits into their busy lives. Cold and flu formula. One *GREAT* cookbook. And hot sauce. Definitely remember the hot sauce!
This recipe appears in our last cookbook, The Blue Ribbon Edition. Grated root veggies + more veggies + home-made dressing. Yogurt in the dressing adds live probiotics + protein.
From 1989. It fell by the wayside, until we served it this year at Tastes of Concord. Not only was this dish a hit, but meat eaters couldn’t believe it was vegetarian!
Of course hydrogen peroxide is a tried-and-true remedy for toenail fungus. Here, Debra goes over some of the other things we use this versatile compound for.
Research shows that pregnant women who consume fish oil have smarter babies. But what, exactly, is a smart baby? And does a smart baby necessarily grow up into a smart adult?
Crimson, crimson, orange, and yellow… with nuggets of green… and soy sauce… make this salad interesting, delicious, hard to pin down, and utterly unique.
We can prevent asthma even as early as in utero. We can reduce the frequency of attacks. And we can control attacks when they happen. You’re never going to throw away your rescue inhaler — just in case — but hopefully, you’ll need to use it a lot less frequently.
We finish the A-Z with molasses, sugar, sugar alcohols, and yacon syrup.
Sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness and complexity of flavor to this lean, hearty, warmly spiced dish.
In part 3, the A-to-Z guide continues with two natural sweeteners, and two artificial sweeteners: saccharine, sorghum molasses, stevia, and sucralose.
Edamame, fresh soybeans, are a delicious and low-fat source of protein. Here, we soften the edamame with brown rice, and elevate them with truffle oil, for a dish that is at once coarse and refined.
Amaranth is a tiny, tiny, tiny grain (a millet technically: the seed of a grass), native to South America. Scallops, of course, are delicious. Here, we marry the two, with Italian spices.
In part two of the alphabetical guide, we cover fruit syrup, high fructose corn syrup, honey, licorice, lo han, maple syrup, and miracle berry.
We begin Three Fundamental Sweetener Concepts, and then the A-to-Z begins with acelsulfame-K, agave, aspartame (Nutrasweet), barley malt, coconut sugar, and date sugar.
Indigenous to South America, goldenberries were brought to South Africa in the 1800’s and are grown today in countries far and wide such as China, England, Scotland, Norway and India.
Survive the holiday season with your sanity and your weight intact.
Sweet potatoes and maple syrup are what make this flan “yankee.” And yes, we offer a vegan version if you want to sub out the heavy cream…
In which Debra cites the cholesterol-reducing effects of chick peas… and then instructs you to use ten (10!) cups of cheese… A summertime indulgence.
After decades of being told to consume “more calcium for your bones,” we see compelling evidence that we need to question that advice.
To the traditional salsa base — tomatoes, peppers, cilantro, onion — we add seafood. For a fresh and exciting cross between a dip and a ceviche. Add black-eyed peas to make it almost a full meal. Or wrap in corn tortillas for instant fish tacos.
natural medicine can both prevent the painful stabbing pain — and its underlying causes.
Grain-free, almost pure vegetable, with bright citrus and crunch and snap!
The Government Accountability Office released a report on herbal supplements, alleging that they are often marketed deceptively, and contaminated with heavy metals.
Who doesn’t love potatoes + corn + fresh garden herbs? This soup can use any and all summer herbs, so just throw them in!
Prescription fish oils exist. Are they any different than fish oils you’d buy over the counter?
Chewing gum can improve dental health (of course!), reduce the risk of ear infections, and even help children focus in school. It can help with appetite and digestion. A miracle remedy?
One raw, one cooked. Two beet recipes where beets are scrubbed and grated (no need to peel). One Chilean lime-flavored. The other dressed with Austrian pumpkinseed oil.
Editor’s Note: this was written a while ago. Since that time, we’ve lost access to the Ifugao violet rice we write about. Don’t worry — you can use any sticky or semi-sticky rice you want!
Warming ginger, nutmeg, and gently curry spices cut through the rainy gloom of late winter / early spring. The gentle sweetness of butternut squash. The richness of coconut milk…
This simple molecule is profoundly beneficial for human health, rivaling even fish oil omega-3s and vitamin D. Research on flu prevention, cardiovascular health, mental health, detoxification… the list is almost endless.
“Somebody asked me recently, “What the heck is KLB6?” Still around after all these years, this formula is an old-fashioned diet aid was all the rage when I was in college in the 60’s.”
This new recipe is a result of a group effort back in our kitchen. Thanks to Piera, Alex (Alex Mong who never liked cabbage until this!) and Amanda, the
This isn’t just about weight loss. This is about all those other diets: gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian, low-purine, paleo, FODMAP, and more.
Black garlic tastes only very slightly of “garlic,” and instead develops hints of apricot and chocolate. It’s really an indescribable flavor…
When your garden is really “hitting on all cylinders” you need to do something with all those vegetables! This simple dish uses them by the bushel.
A generous splash of pomegranate juice punches up the intensity of this traditional sweet-tart sauce. For ice cream, or Thanksgiving. Voted #1 Recipe Most Likely to Stain Your Clothing.
Tempeh is the “other” soy food, native to Indonesia. Fermented soy is more digestible, and you’ll find tempeh has an interesting sort of “ground beef” texture.
Sometimes an herb comes along that barely has a shred of research to back it — but it’s amazing. It’s the best we’ve got. Lomatium is one of those herbs.
Actually, we kept going, and got as high as 13 Healthiest. Some of what made the cut may surprise you!
Melatonin is normally produced in our own bodies, in the pineal gland. It is also available as a supplement. It’s the brain’s way of signaling to itself — and the rest of the body — that it’s time to sleep.
“I love to feed people, but like you, don’t have time to fuss in the kitchen. I got so many rave reviews about Dinner with a Friend (my March 2009 newsletter recipe) and pleas for more easy dinners to make in a flash…”
… in which we sarcastically (caustically, even) address the allegations that a popular condiment can make you psychotic. Because that’s how the media talks about healing herbs.
A vegetarian health food take on the classic Salvadoran stuffed pastry, Jim’s recipe uses whole wheat flour, tons of vegetables, and tahini — and some cheddar, if you want it.
Sometimes a legitimate good-for-you food is overtaken by its own marketing. There’s nothing wrong with the acai berry. But it isn’t half of what people say it is…
A mayo-less potato salad that is light (yet substantial), fresh, bright, and delicious, with the baby spinach, cilantro, and the bite of apple cider vinegar.
An easy, easy, easy summer dish around which to build an even easier summer meal. What is Za’atar? It’s a Middle Eastern seasoning mix made from hyssop, Israeli sumac, sesame seeds, etc.
“Public Health bulletins are sounding more and more these days like a Dr. Seuss book, evocative less of mass pandemic death than whimsical barnyard shenanigans.”
Neti pots works! But what do you put in them? Do you need to use bottled water? Are there herbal ingredients you can add, in addition to salt?
Did you know that the USDA ranks dandelion in the top four green vegetables in overall nutritional value? Or that DEBRA ranks avocados among the most wonderful things on Earth?
o early for tomatoes, zucchini are still expensive, and we aren’t ready for cold salads…. it’s still cool enough to turn on the oven, roast vegetables, and dream of summer!
Buckwheat! You either love it… or you haven’t tried it yet. This Japanese/Russian supergrain cooks quickly, and is packed with flavor. And it marries especially well with chicken.
There are a lot of products out there claiming (or at least strongly implying) that they’re going to make you a whole lot prettier. When it comes to hair and nails at least, there are two that actually work.
About five minutes to get into the oven. Gluten-free, grain-free, with the richness of nuts and eggs; and loved by everyone.
On behalf of the United States food industry, I would like to apologize to the rest of the world for that thing we call “American Cheese.”
Simple and delicious. Beautiful to look at. You feel full, but not too full, and you don’t feel thirsty afterward either!
North African “home food,” ready in 15-30 minutes depending on if you use hard or soft lentils. Gently, warmly spiced.
Dried apricots and dates are the key to these macaroons. They provide sweetness, and also bind the other ingredients. So no need for flour, eggs, or sugar.
Fish oil helps you lose weight. Artificial sweeteners… not so much. Plus, what are Coke & Pepsi up to?
Blini are yeasted savory pancakes, traditionally served with caviar and crème fraiche. This version is vegetarian, and gluten-free.”
Arthritis hurts! Here, we review and differentiate some of the supplements that put out the fire, ease the pain, restore eroded joint cartilage, and lubricate the joints. Some work quickly. Some take longer…
The Walnut Surprise Cookies in my first cookbook are, surprise! brownies. And the best cookie ever. Now I’ve subbed out the flour for nut meal, for a richer, denser, gluten-free treat.
The first step is understanding the different kinds of arthritis — rheumatoid, osteo, etc. — and understanding how your diet and lifestyle interacts with this degenerative condition.
Warming, with the natural, vegetal sweetness of the root veggies and squash. This is autumnal comfort food.
An economic downturn rewards deep sustainability, and attaches real costs to the efficiencies and inefficiencies of the food system.
It was especially upsetting to read the Organic Consumer Association’s (OCA) report on 1,4-dioxane on “natural” bodycare and household products.
Pineapple and macadamia nuts enliven the traditional dour cabbage. Umeboshi (Japanese plum) vinegar adds pizzazz.
Ever wonder what to do with that Chinese 5-Spice powder you bought but never used? THIS is what!
A few months ago, I came across a news item claiming that the newest food trend in Japan is black food: black sesame seeds, black rice, black vinegar, black soybeans, etc. Is there anything to it?
For years, people didn’t pay much attention to vitamin D. We knew that adequate levels were important to prevent osteoporosis, rickets, and other bone and joint diseases. And that was about it. Get enough, but not too much, and that was about that…
hanks to Adam, we’ve been enjoying this recipe for some years now. We love this recipe so much that we put in our third cookbook, The Blue Ribbon Edition: From our kitchen to yours.
Amanda started making this old-fashioned, light, comfort food in our kitchen, and many of you have asked for the recipe. Well, here it is.
Don’t be scared by the picture! You use marinated artichoke hearts. From a jar. So, no tedious artichoke prep. Add some fennel, some feta, some spelt berries…
Remember in 2008, when you didn’t know what chia was… except that thing with the Chia Pets? Well, we told you how to make a muffin with it. And we blew your mind!
No gluten. And no cheese. The savory “Secret Sauce” of brewer’s yeast. The subtle sweetness of carrots.
Teff grain is a nutritional powerhouse smaller than a poppy seed. If you’ve ever had injere, Ethiopian pancake-bread, you’ve had teff.
We continue our exploration of the culinary, medicinal, and cultural aspects of spiciness. And we ask: are all peppers created equal? What about ginger?
The breakfast cereal we buy says a lot about who we vote for.
Kelp noodles are gluten-free, and very low in carbohydrates and calories. Their texture is chewy, and you can use them anywhere you’d use pasta. This is a pasta salad that is more salad than pasta!
Spicy foods are healthy foods. They stimulate circulation, decongest, and much much more.