September is the month that takes us back to school, back to schedules and back to figuring out what is best to feed our children. Without a doubt, feeding them real food is the way to go! Organic fruits, vegetables and dairy products, free from pesticides and growth hormones will nourish and protect their growing young bodies. Grass fed beef, pasture raised chicken and eggs, wild catch fish and legumes like beans, peas, and lentils are good protein sources. Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa and millet are excellent choices to substitute for white rice which has limited nutritional value. Sandwiches made on 100% whole wheat bread provide more nutrients and longer lasting energy than sandwiches made on white bread. Try out the recipe below for a sweet, natural dessert!
Adapted from "The Cane Mutiny," New Age Magazine, March/April 1999.
Recipe of the Month:
Maple Fruit Compote with Honey-Ginger Toasted Nuts
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients:
2-3 apples
2-3 peaches or pears
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1/2 cup raisins
juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup walnuts or nuts of your choice
1/2 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
2 tablespoons honey
Directions:
1. Wash, core and chop fruit into slices or chunks.
2. Place in a large saucepan with 1/3 cup of water. Add the maple syrup and raisins.
3. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes.
4. Add lemon juice and cinnamon. Cook for another 10 minutes, until soft.
5. While fruit is cooking, place chopped nuts in a skillet over medium heat and toast, stirring often, for 5 minutes.
6. Drizzle honey over the nuts and add ginger, but keep stirring since the honey can easily burn.
7. Top warm fruit with toasted nuts and enjoy!
