tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21709639648671793012024-03-06T01:05:22.800-08:00Testing One, Two, ThreeA blog about life, food and theater - cause what else is there??Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger160125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2170963964867179301.post-87343380394317360682013-06-21T16:37:00.003-07:002013-06-21T16:37:35.214-07:00follow me sweetsI've started a new blog about my cake decorating. Please follow me here:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://dorindascakedesign.blogspot.com/">Dorindascakedesign.blogspot.com</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2170963964867179301.post-86737154695564442472013-04-21T22:26:00.003-07:002013-04-24T14:33:05.652-07:00Homemade Laundry Softener <i>I've been inspired lately to create <b>non-toxic, environmentally and
wallet friendly</b> versions of some of my everyday house-hold cleaners.
They are inexpensive, work just as well (if not better!) than store
bought versions - and I know exactly what goes into them!</i><br />
<br />
This one was fun to make. Cause it smells pretty and will go GREAT with my homemade laundry detergent. And mine turned out PINK :) Did I mention it smells pretty!??<br />
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<br />
Homemade Fabric Softener:<br />
1 cup hair conditioner (any kind- but purists could certainly use organic and Frugal types could use White Rain or Suave) I used a little of two because they were near empty bottles<br />
3 cups hot water<br />
1 cup vinegar<br />
<br />
Mix hair conditioner with hot water. Make sure they are really well mixed. Add vinegar. <br />
<br />
I re-used an old laundry soap bottle (completely rinsed out) to put this in.<br />
<h4>
<b><br /></b></h4>
<h4>
<b>UPDATE: </b>I have tried this for a couple of loads now and I can say with honesty that this does a good job of softening your clothes. It smells a bit of vinegar when you first put it into the washer's softener tray but don't let that worry you - the scent does not linger in the clothes. If you try this - let me know!</h4>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2170963964867179301.post-84875858229431999302013-04-21T22:17:00.000-07:002013-04-24T14:33:50.800-07:00Heavy Duty Bathroom (soap scum) Cleaner<i>I've been inspired lately to create <b>non-toxic, environmentally and
wallet friendly</b> versions of some of my everyday house-hold cleaners.
They are inexpensive, work just as well (if not better!) than store
bought versions - and I know exactly what goes into them!</i> <br />
<br />
Ooooh - this one is easy and SO crazy effective! Eric and I tried this on the guest bath sink and we both agreed we've never seen it so clean since we moved in. Seriously! I was sceptical about this recipe (because every blogger RAVES about it - but they were right) it's crazy good!<br />
<br />
Bathroom cleaner:<br />
<br />
1cup dishsoap (I used Palmolive cause that's what was under the sink - the inter-web groupies insist Dawn is best)<br />
2 cups HOT vinegar (this is important)<br />
10(ish) drops essential oils (I used lavender and peppermint)<br />
<br />
Heat the vinegar in the microwave until HOT. Add to dishsoap and stir in essential oils. (I put mine directly into the spray bottle and shook it up really well)<br />
<br />
<h4>
UPDATE: This stuff REALLY, REALLY works. I have two or three small comments about it however.</h4>
<br />
One - the smell of vinegar is pretty strong initially. Once its rinsed away - just the scent of the soap and essential oils are left - but during the cleaning process this can be a little overwhelming if you are sensitive to scent (as I am).<br />
<br />
Two- there is a lot of SOAP in this (duh) so it really bubbles up as you rinse. I've found that following the rinsing with a dry paper towel or cloth works wonders and really makes things SPARKLE after using this cleanser.<br />
<br />
Three - this stuff can be sprayed on (its a gel consistency) and left on for a few minutes to overnight for really built up soap scum and/or grime. I sprayed around my kitchen taps, went to bed and when I got up was able to wipe years of hardwater residue off with no scrubbing at all. Magic!<br />
<br />
Okay and ONE more comment - I tried this stuff as a laundry pre-treat and it worked pretty well. I bought a tee shirt a while back and proceeded to drop my water-proof mascara down the front. grr. Nothing else has taken the stain completely away - this one has come the closest. I'm going to try spraying it and leaving it over night. <br />
<br />
If you make this cleaner - I'd love to hear your thoughts on it!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2170963964867179301.post-8055026761480700842013-04-21T22:07:00.001-07:002013-04-24T14:34:31.889-07:00Easy Window Cleaner<i>I've been inspired lately to create <b>non-toxic, environmentally and
wallet friendly</b> versions of some of my everyday house-hold cleaners.
They are inexpensive, work just as well (if not better!) than store
bought versions - and I know exactly what goes into them!</i> <br />
<br />
<br />
Window Cleaner<br />
<br />
<br />
2 cups Water (pre-boiled)<br />
3 TBS lemon juice<br />
1 TBS vinegar<br />
<br />
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<h4>
UPDATE:</h4>
Okay here is the buzz on this. I like this window cleaner - but I don't love it. Yet. After having used commercial window cleaner for so long - this one seems to take more effort to use - mostly because it stays wet on the surface for longer. (thus longer wiping time) I've done a bit of research on this one and a lot of sites say to add a TBS of rubbing alcohol. The alcohol will evaporate quickly causing the spray to dry faster and require less polishing time. <br />
<br />
I'll update again if I decide to try that :)<br />
<br />
If you make your own cleaners - I'd love to hear about it! Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2170963964867179301.post-29890903837782559672013-04-21T22:02:00.002-07:002013-04-24T14:35:07.430-07:00All purpose general Household (kitchen cleaner)<i>I've been inspired lately to create <b>non-toxic, environmentally and
wallet friendly</b> versions of some of my everyday house-hold cleaners.
They are inexpensive, work just as well (if not better!) than store
bought versions - and I know exactly what goes into them!</i> <br />
<br />
Here is the recipe I used for my all purpose general/kitchen cleaner. I love this one - because the essential oils smell SO great but they are actually really excellent anti-bacterial, anti-microbial and even anti-fungal agents (do your research to decide which ones will work best for your needs). I used Lavender, Orange, Lime and Lemongrass. I also used a natural organic dish-soap cause I already had that in the house.<br />
<br />
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<br />
<br />
All Purpose Spray Cleaner:<br />
<br />
1 1/2 teas baking soda<br />
2 teas liquid dishsoap<br />
3 cups boiled water (cooled)<br />
1cup vinegar<br />
15-25 drops (about 1/2 teas) essential oils<br />
<br />
I made this in a med bowl before pouring into a spray bottle. The vinegar and baking soda WILL foam up. Don't panic - just give it a few minutes to cool its jets :)<br />
<br />
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<h4>
UPDATE:</h4>
I love, love, love this cleaner. I've used it in both my kitchen and bathroom now. It smells GREAT and does a really nice job. It even took up some makeup stains on my bathroom counter that did not come up with my traditional bathroom spray!<br />
<br />
I also love the idea that after I've cleaned my toilet I'm not sitting on any leftover chemicals - but on lovely smelling essential oils which are also antiseptic, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial! <br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2170963964867179301.post-38793219907071753052013-04-21T21:44:00.000-07:002013-04-24T14:43:49.459-07:00Homemade laundry detergent<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>I've been inspired lately to create <b>non-toxic, environmentally and
wallet friendly</b> versions of some of my everyday house-hold cleaners.
They are inexpensive, work just as well (if not better!) than store
bought versions - and I know exactly what goes into them!</i><br />
<br />
Here is the recipe I used to make homemade Laundry detergent:<br />
1 4lb box of BORAX<br />
1 3lb box of Washing Soda<br />
1 1lb box of baking soda<br />
3 bar Ivory soap (finely grated) not pictured<br />
1 lb Oxy clean (optional) not pictured<br />
10-25 drops essential oils (about 1/2 teas)<br />
<br />
Use a BIG tub or container with a lid. Grate soap. I used my food processor to grind this up nice and fine. mix in all dry ingredients. I added lavender, orange and rose essential oils - smells SO good. Mix very well!!<br />
<br />
Use one small scoop (about 2-3 TBS) per load.<br />
<br />
<h4>
UPDATE: I have a couple of reviews about this soap. Firstly, this does an excellent job on towels, linens and whites. Everything came out very bright and fresh. It only takes a small scoop to be very effective and I can tell this will last a long time!</h4>
<br />
On a slightly less positive note - the essential oils I used to scent this have faded since I made it. I'm bummed about this - because now the predominant scent is the Ivory soap I used. Now don't get me wrong - Ivory soap smells just fine. But I wanted this to smell of roses and lavender. I have read on-line that some ladies scent their with a Scenty bath product and others choose a more scented soap. I'm sure either of those would work fine - but I wanted to remain true to the simplicity of the original recipe. I suppose I could add more oils - but for now I'm going to leave it as is and decide if I still like it :)<br />
<br />
If You try making your own detergent I'd love to hear how it goes!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2170963964867179301.post-83115510377913291122013-01-13T19:53:00.001-08:002013-01-13T19:55:12.984-08:00THESE:<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1742111681"><br /></a>
<a href="http://ohsheglows.com/2011/03/28/5-ingredient-no-bake-vegan-date-squares/">http://ohsheglows.com/2011/03/28/5-ingredient-no-bake-vegan-date-squares/</a><br />
<br />
try them - a new fave in our house for sure!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2170963964867179301.post-13134486310035697732013-01-02T08:50:00.001-08:002013-01-02T09:00:12.067-08:00New year - new startYes, its that time of year again - resolutions, new beginnings, re-starts and do-overs. I always find myself making the same sort of resolutions year after year - more theater, more time with the family, more working out and of course losing weight!<br />
<br />
One thing that I tried to do differently this year was think about the successes and the failures I had this past year. While I did great at some areas - landing a couple of dream auditions (and some dream roles too!) completing P90x (something I thought I could never do) and convincing my whole family to go super healthy eating WITH me - there were some failures too.<br />
<br />
I messed up not quite HALF of the auditions I went to. I still struggle with my need to please, my nerves and my insecurities! (My classes have been very eye-opening for me in these regards this year!!) I managed to lose and re-gain the same 10lbs about three times this year. SO frustrating!! And I had injuries in my feet (bruised heel and bone fracture in my metatarsal) that keep setting me back again and again.<br />
<br />
BUT life is about trying and failing. Its what you do with that failure that matters. To my way of thinking - you either get back up and keep trying - or you quit. There have been times over the past year when I most certainly wanted to QUIT! The pressure of all those auditions and classes - why put myself through it?? The never ending battle of exercise vs injury - it would be MUCH easier to stay on the couch! And speaking of being on the couch - while I am there I think I'll have that bag of chips and just stay fat too!! It is much easier to quit.<br />
<br />
But quitting doesn't get me what I really want.<br />
<br />
I want to be fit. I want to have muscles. I want to have stamina to do things I enjoy - like play sports, dance or go hiking. I want to LAND THE PART! This means I have to work on my nerves and insecurities - not just the way I look. I have to be okay with not everyone loving me - or even liking me. (falling off metal cliff as I write that - still needs work :) ) I want to give my best at every audition and know that it was good enough. I want to feel good about my body again and fit into clothes that are comfortable and flattering. I want to eat lots of fruits and veggies and I want to Prefer them to junk.<br />
<br />
And another thing my failures are teaching me is that it is OK not to be the thinnest. Not to land every part. You dont have to complete p90x to be fit. You dont have to eat perfectly 100% of the time - 90% is adaquate.<br />
<br />
I've never been very good at balance in my life. I've always been 110% on board or completely slacking off. This years resolutions reflect striving toward more balance. No extreme diet programs, no extreme fitness programs, no expectations of big roles. Just a lot of hard work and a lot of forgiveness. Hopefully by this time next year I will see the fruits of that ethic in weight loss, fitness and theater. It will be an interesting journey!<br />
<br />
<br />
Did you make resolutions this year?<br />
<br />
<br />
Dorinda's 2013 Resolutions<br />
<br />
- lose 35lbs<br />
- get hired in Portland theater<br />
- go to 10+ auditions<br />
- buy a swimsuit<br />
- walk for 30min daily<br />
- complete my weight lifting program and then keep going<br />
- get dressed in my workout clothes first thing<br />
- focus on a plant-based whole foods diet<br />
- set aside time for an active family activity every weekend (excepting tech and performance weekends) <br />
- get up at the same time everyday even if it means a nap later in the day<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2170963964867179301.post-48870113839201175162012-12-23T21:41:00.002-08:002012-12-23T21:53:59.465-08:00Gingerbread and Poached Pears Christmas TrifleGingerbread and Poached Pears Christmas Trifle<br />
<br />
Somewhere in the back of my mind is a little place where all the kitchen adventures I want to have live. One of those adventures has always been to make a trifle and have a lovely trifle bowl. Its kind of an impractical kitchen item (the trifle bowl) but I DO love to entertain and bake so when I stumbled across one that was on clearance for just $8 (I know!!) I could not pass it up :)<br />
<br />
So my first trip into making trifle was pure experimentation. And SO fun. I cruised the internet for ideas and then came up with my own that I feel has a nice Christmasy feel. I used this as an opportunity to try poaching pears and making syrup (another couple of kitchen adventures that were living back there in my mind). <br />
<br />
<br />
Gingerbread and Poached Pears Christmas Trifle<br />
1 box spice cake mix (baked according to directions on the box)<br />
4 pears<br />
2 cups port wine<br />
1 cup brown sugar<br />
2 Tbsps lemon juice<br />
cinnamon<br />
ground cloves<br />
1 8oz brick neufchatel cheese (or light cream cheese)<br />
3/4 cup icing sugar<br />
4 tablespoons heavy cream<br />
1 container cool whip<br />
<br />
Directions:<br />
Bake spice cake and let cool. Cut into 1 inch pieces.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile in a large saucepan bring to a low boil the Port wine, brown sugar, lemon juice and a couple dashes of cinnamon and a dash of ground cloves (or more to taste)<br />
<br />
Peel pears, slice in half and de-seed. Place in saucepan and bring down to a simmer. Simmer for 20mins turning once. Remove pears and let cool. Once they are cool slice pears.<br />
<br />
Reserve poaching liquids and return to low boil. Continue at low boil stirring often until liquid reduces by more than half and has a nice syrupy quality. Remove from heat.<br />
<br />
In a mixing bowl beat cheese, icing sugar and heavy cream until fluffy. Set aside.<br />
<br />
THEN<br />
<br />
1)Place half of cake pieces in bottom of trifle bowl (like a jigsaw puzzle) to fill part way. 2)Top with a layer of pear slices. Drizzle half of pear-wine-syrup reduction over pears. (this will most likely run down into cake - perfect!) 3)Top pears with half of the creamed sweet cheese fluff and spread it evenly. 4) Top the creamed sweet cheese layer with half the container of cool whip - spread evenly.<br />
<br />
Repeat 1-4 saving a few of the poached pear slices for decorating the top. Refrigerate for 12-24 hours before serving.<br />
<br />
I drizzled the top of mine with the last tablespoon of syrup and sprinkled the top with a bit more cinnamon and ground cloves. Pictures to follow :)<br />
<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2170963964867179301.post-80303742870272481972012-12-20T00:40:00.000-08:002012-12-20T00:40:10.234-08:00vegan hot chcolateI love hot chocolate but since I've been cutting drastically back on dairy and sugar the regular powdered stuff makes my tummy hurt.<br />
<br />
I fiddled around with this this morning and cant believe I didnt do this sooner. its stupid easy and so, so good! Reminds me of the 'real' hot chocolate my mom used to make on the stove for us to have coming in from playing in the snow or skating.<br />
<br />
Here's what I did:<br />
<br />
11/2 teas dark unsweetened cocoa<br />
3 teas splenda (you could use stevia or agave if you are anti-sweeteners)<br />
1 cup almond milk<br />
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I mixed the dry ingredients with just a touch of the milk first to get the lumps out and then added the rest and warmed it up in the microwave until hot and steamy.<br />
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TRY this. You could always use soy but the subtle nutty flavour of the almond milk is devine with chocolate.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2170963964867179301.post-21016841718104533632012-12-17T15:33:00.003-08:002012-12-17T15:35:29.413-08:00Chana Masala with spinach Recently I had the BEST, best chana masala I've ever had at a local Indian restaurant while out with some girlfriends. It was so good - that I had to bring my hubby and kids back to try it (and other delicious things on the menu).<br />
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Since eating out every time I have an craving is out of the question - I wanted to try my hand at making my own. If you've never had it I urge you to try it! Its a lovely combination of warm and spicy and tangy and just perfect on a cold rainy (or snowy) day.<br />
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This is what I came up with. I based this on a few recipes that I could find and what I had on hand. <br />
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Chana Masala with Spinach:<br />
1 red onion diced<br />
3 garlic cloves pressed and minced<br />
1 large tomato diced<br />
2 teas grated fresh ginger<br />
1 tablespoon ground coriander<br />
2 teaspoons ground cumin<br />
1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper<br />
1 teaspoon ground turmeric<br />
2 teaspoons paprika<br />
1 teaspoon yellow curry powder <br />
1 15-ounce can of whole tomatoes with their juices, chopped small<br />
1/2 cup water<br />
2 (15-ounce) cans chickpeas, drained <br />
1/2 teaspoon salt <br />
1/4 cup lemon juice<br />
2 cups chopped spinach<br />
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In a large pan saute onion, garlic, ginger and diced tomato until soft. add spices and stir well. add chickpeas, canned tomatoes and lemon juice. stir in chopped spinach. simmer on stovetop on low-med for about an hour or until everything is soft and flavours are well developed.<br />
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Serve with rice or naan. <br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2170963964867179301.post-74600165378983086982012-10-10T12:01:00.002-07:002012-10-10T12:12:19.575-07:00Fort Vancouver National Trust and THEATER??This past year I've had the most interesting and fun partnership develop with the great folks over at the Fort Vancouver National Trust. The Trust takes care of the Fort Vancouver Historical site - its buildings, parks, events, fund-raising, restoration, preservation and education programs. You can read about all the things these good folks are up to here:<br />
<a href="http://www.fortvan.org/">http://www.fortvan.org/</a><br />
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As part of this - they hired a local playwright to write a dinner theater script based on events that may have happened historically at the Barracks building. They needed a director, and a cast and the playwright (who I had happened to direct before) put the Trust in touch with me. And a great working relationship has been the result!<br />
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The first dinner theater event was a HUGE success at an annual event last October along with shows open to the public. We even did a second run of the show in June! Then again this past month I got the chance to direct another great project about the life and legacy of Mother Joseph.<br />
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In each of these projects I have had the chance to work with casts that I love and admire, local playwrights and a fantastic bunch of people at the Fort. Love, love, love this opportunity! I am looking forward to many more projects! Here are some picture highlights to enjoy!<br />
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Murder at the Barracks, October 2011: <br />
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Murder at the Barracks, June 2012:<br />
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Mother Jopseph - Life and Legacy, October, 2012:<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2170963964867179301.post-62728696934069187462012-10-10T11:01:00.002-07:002012-10-10T11:01:38.856-07:00Fall crockpot MedleyPretty good title huh? :)<br />
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This past Sunday Eric and I went to the Farmer's market. Only a few weeks left and I wanted to get all those great fruits and veggies in season right now- YUM.<br />
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I didn't have a plan for what I had on hand today but I knew I wanted to do something in the crock-pot so this is what I came up with. It sure smells great - hope it ends up tasting just as good!<br />
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The ingredients:<br />
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Chicken (kinda cut out of the picture here) 1 large sweet potato, two Yukon gold potatoes, two yellow squash (farmer's market), walla walla onion (local), brown mushrooms (local), garlic (farmer's market) and celery. <br />
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The Seasonings:<br />
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Fresh basil and rosemary (from my yard), fresh dill and cilantro (from the farmer's market), 1 lemon, sea salt, black pepper, Mrs Dash no salt seasoning.<br />
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First I cut up the sweet and gold potatoes and put them in my Crock. I read somewhere that the potatoes should go in first but I can't remember for the life of me why that is. I did it anyway :)<br />
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Then I placed three chicken breasts on top of those (I was gonna use 4 but they seemed big to me - do what you like) And then seasoned them with some Mrs D, salt and pepper and sqeezed the juice of half the lemon on top.<br />
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I chopped up my onion, celery, mushrooms, squash and tossed them on top. Then I added 6 (yep!) cloves of garlic slightly smushed. I added a bit more seasoning, salt and pepper. - sorry forgot to take a picture of this step :D<br />
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I chopped up the rosemary leaves, tore up some basil and then rough chopped a bunch of dill and cilantro on top of that. I added the juice from the second half of the lemon over the whole thing.<br />
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I put this on high for the first hour, and then I will cook it on low for the next 6hrs or so. <br />
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If you try something like this I'd love to hear how it turned out for you!<br />
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<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2170963964867179301.post-72882866885841573742012-09-28T11:08:00.001-07:002012-09-28T11:08:44.742-07:00Its back! Wait Until Dark 2.0My friend and Director Dave asked me if I'd like to do this show with him again (different theater company this time) and with a whole new cast - except me of course!<br />
<br />
Whaddya think I said?<br />
<br />
<h3>
Wait Until Dark </h3>
opens Oct 12th and runs thru Oct 31st at the Lovestreet theater in Woodland, WA. Check out the website for tickets and details!<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_433231717"><br /></a>
<a href="http://www.lovestreetplayhouse.com/">www.lovestreetplayhouse.com</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN8hhpNPAuIJ247HUARH_GoT9G2LWDEEbDgqEwteVpy1WYq1ACyQQlQX2xIkuV_ShB1Bgf4BVP2WtbuJ5Df1wbE3zq21f6-LGDczCrftIG1ZpvhAI7m9wKswm700_l-JRqWHKU18NmkjE/s1600/5e1f1744f08c96eb621ddfbc99f70c72.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN8hhpNPAuIJ247HUARH_GoT9G2LWDEEbDgqEwteVpy1WYq1ACyQQlQX2xIkuV_ShB1Bgf4BVP2WtbuJ5Df1wbE3zq21f6-LGDczCrftIG1ZpvhAI7m9wKswm700_l-JRqWHKU18NmkjE/s320/5e1f1744f08c96eb621ddfbc99f70c72.jpg" width="315" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2170963964867179301.post-88775867894461663322012-09-28T11:01:00.001-07:002012-09-28T11:03:21.241-07:00Somehting yummy in the crockpotIts finally feeling like fall around here and that means CROCKPOT time again! After a summer of salads and Bbqs I'm craving something warm and comforting - but as always healthful. Here's whats simmering in my crock right now:<br />
<br />
Thai inspired Veggie Curry:<br />
<br />
1 large sweet onion chopped<br />
4 small yukon gold potatoes chopped<br />
1/2 cup baby carrots halfed<br />
1 16oz bag frozen cauliflower<br />
1 can drianed chickpeas<br />
1 can lite coconut milk<br />
3-5 small fresh basil leaves torn <br />
I teas each - yellow and red curry powder, cumin and corriander<br />
1/2 teas each - paprika, tumeric, garam masala, sea salt.<br />
a healthy 'dash' of red pepper flakes<br />
<br />
I will serve this with a brown basmati rice or whole wheat couscous and a sprinkle of dried coconut.<br />
<br />
SMELLS AMAZING :) <br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2170963964867179301.post-67676965639283718402012-03-05T14:40:00.004-08:002012-03-05T15:12:04.538-08:00Chocolate Chunck Healthy Crunch Everything cookies :)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgGxaFlKoi7HZ4Ofu5BEPWd5rD9yUDKMeZhIghFVYRiUlUc_5G3zBzrWIp6ANB9hoWCQsSuWl_o-FR-FTTskB12wCoYNGEq5o9A0tH6JWDpIe53Is95V18DOcC1FGvlWFhujZNEdyf0w4/s1600/photo(8).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgGxaFlKoi7HZ4Ofu5BEPWd5rD9yUDKMeZhIghFVYRiUlUc_5G3zBzrWIp6ANB9hoWCQsSuWl_o-FR-FTTskB12wCoYNGEq5o9A0tH6JWDpIe53Is95V18DOcC1FGvlWFhujZNEdyf0w4/s320/photo(8).JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Okay so this is a recipe that I have kicked around for ages: Dorinda's Everything cookies. These have been through a few quite a few modifications over the years as our family tastes have changed. This morning I decided to try and tweak these again to include some 'healthier' whole food options.<br />
<br />
These are a bit of a pricey cookie if you use the organic ingredients I did so save them for a special occasion or feel free to substitute for anything on the original recipe list. Keep in mind that baking your own cookies is ALMOST ALWAYS cheaper and healthier than store bought cookies witch are loaded with gross things like corn syrup, rendered pig's fat, and preservatives. YUK!!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGMJDfbC1jVBcbASW47yoNq2sqT2Il9gekaUjCb8Oiqt1bzisyXN3HS6gHBBkJ6GgH6wr-HeIojxwrw_xD50SR9QA_rYOP3ZS1dXPvprAvt-R0tmeBTlIyIHaGud9fEe753I3tCDkNhtE/s1600/photo(9).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGMJDfbC1jVBcbASW47yoNq2sqT2Il9gekaUjCb8Oiqt1bzisyXN3HS6gHBBkJ6GgH6wr-HeIojxwrw_xD50SR9QA_rYOP3ZS1dXPvprAvt-R0tmeBTlIyIHaGud9fEe753I3tCDkNhtE/s320/photo(9).JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Chocolate Chunk Healthy Crunch Everything Cookies:<br />
2 1/4cups whole wheat flour <i>(original recipe called for unbleached flour)</i><br />
2 cups old fashioned rolled oats <i>(original recipe called for quick oats)</i><br />
2 cups brown sugar<br />
1 teas baking soda<br />
1/2 teas salt<br />
1/2 cup unsalted almond butter<i> (original recipe called for 1/2 cup peanut butter)</i><br />
<br />
1/2 cup butter softened<i> (original recipe called for 1cup butter)</i><br />
1 med banana mashed <i>(not in original recipe)</i><br />
2 teas vanilla<br />
2 organic cage free eggs <i>(original recipe called for just plain ol' eggs)</i><br />
1 cup chopped raw walnuts <i>(original recipe called for 1/2 cup toasted sunflower seeds)</i><br />
2 bars (3.5oz) each organic dark chocolate chopped into chunks <i>(original recipe called for 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips)</i><br />
1 cup shredded coconut<br />
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These are RICH, decadent, soft cookies with a great nutty, crunchy texture. Hope you try them :)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2170963964867179301.post-90454358437294391422012-03-03T13:10:00.007-08:002012-03-03T13:55:13.757-08:008 grain banana blueberry muffinsIt seems like all I do is post recipes that are adaptations of other recipes - and the truth is - I do!! I love getting inspiration from interesting sounding recipes. I don't know if you are like me - but I love to experiment in the kitchen! I have my own tastes and ideas about what goes well together and basically I HATE having to measure everything so precisely! Cooking should be fun and an expression of who you are!<br />
<br />
That said, baking is one of those areas where you have to at least understand the properties of what goes into a muffin - what goes into a cake - what goes into a cookie before you start messing around with things. A poorly executed cake can quickly turn into a sweet lump of goo- or a nice smelling brick :)<br />
<br />
So when I fool around with baking recipes I am cautiously optimistic as I put things into the oven. This morning I played around (a bit) with a recipe on the back of my Bob's Red Mill 8 Grain Hot Cereal package. And it was a hit!<br />
<br />
Here is the original recipe for Ruthie's 8 Grain Muffins:<br />
<a href="http://www.bobsredmill.com/recipes.php?recipe=913">http://www.bobsredmill.com/recipes.php?recipe=913</a><br />
<br />
And here is my Adaptation:<br />
<br />
1 1/4 cup light vanilla soy milk<br />
1 cup Bob's Red Mill 8 Grain Cereal <br />
<br />
1 egg<br />
1/4 cup olive oil (could use butter but I didn't have any)<br />
1 med banana <br />
1/2 cup brown sugar<br />
<br />
1 tsp salt<br />
2 teas baking powder (1 teas baking soda would also work but I was all out)<br />
1 1/4 cup whole wheat flour<br />
<br />
1 cup blueberries (I used frozen)<br />
2 Tbs flour (I used whole wheat) to coat the berries<br />
<br />
In a bowl combine milk and cereal - let sit on counter at least 10 mins (to soften the grains). Preheat oven to 400. Toss berries in flour in a small bowl to coat. Cream together egg, oil, banana and sugar on med. Add salt, powder, flour and milk and cereal mix stir until just combined. Gently fold in berries. Cook in well-sprayed muffin tin - about 15mins. Makes 12 good sized muffins.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAZtv1uCHY1CdNgn8H40ajZzHTjvbyLzWYUMO4Ge2HaGaGcia3cr3Yz2PQOWXznfyzUq4VPkztFiJeHtrJIu9JiCyIXHY8jh0U0oIHm7iBw33ERLZq2LK5gGbx-103dnLDslL1vC5aJ8I/s1600/photo(5).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAZtv1uCHY1CdNgn8H40ajZzHTjvbyLzWYUMO4Ge2HaGaGcia3cr3Yz2PQOWXznfyzUq4VPkztFiJeHtrJIu9JiCyIXHY8jh0U0oIHm7iBw33ERLZq2LK5gGbx-103dnLDslL1vC5aJ8I/s320/photo(5).JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2170963964867179301.post-61584856273817267622012-03-02T14:06:00.000-08:002012-03-02T14:06:13.577-08:00New breakfast favorite!I just read the book 'engine 2 diet' which is basically the story of a Texas firefighter who helped his fellow firemen at his station change their diets to a 'plant-strong' way of eating. So they all showed vast improvements in weight & health etc. Its worth a read find it here: <a href="http://engine2diet.com/">http://engine2diet.com/</a><br />
<br />
In the book are a bunch of recipes and one that came up as an overwhelming fan favorite is now one of mine. Funnily enough I am not a huge fan of cereal - but this is just so versatile and yummy!<br />
<br />
I changed it slightly to suit my own tastes - you can see the original recipe here:<br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/goog_1168141817">http://www.managercomplete.com/engine2</a><br />
/recipe.aspx?category=Breakfast&id=24 <br />
<br />
Here's Mine:<br />
1/3 cup Kashi Go Lean Crunch<br />
1/3 cup All Bran Cereal<br />
1/3 cup Special K<br />
1/2 kiwi cut up<br />
1/2 med banana sliced<br />
1/3 cup blueberries (frozen is fine)<br />
1 cup unsweetened Almond Milk<br />
1 oz raw walnuts<br />
<br />
Toss all in a bowl - top with milk and enjoy!! You'll be surprised at how yummy this is!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2170963964867179301.post-22052785233885129602012-03-01T15:40:00.005-08:002012-03-03T14:07:43.668-08:00Green on Green soup!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifFnBg5Fs-Dk9DzN-mtABsUHildWU1bY5bNHt_RdKereEHr0EvT9ESCi6UtYoJbzmCHHi9U0o6NSFJ3iuq5-MXgD6SF2d-Ns22FX2qcYiu6I11yThWsUbuhoFO8k26jCYH14DaBFtbY34/s1600/photo(7).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifFnBg5Fs-Dk9DzN-mtABsUHildWU1bY5bNHt_RdKereEHr0EvT9ESCi6UtYoJbzmCHHi9U0o6NSFJ3iuq5-MXgD6SF2d-Ns22FX2qcYiu6I11yThWsUbuhoFO8k26jCYH14DaBFtbY34/s320/photo(7).JPG" width="240" /></a></div>Everyone in our house is either recovering from or coming down with the same stupid cold today - so I am making some comforting yummy soup FULL of all sorts of good things to make us feel better.<br />
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<br />
This is what I am making today - I adapted this recipe from the FatFree Vegan Kitchen <a href="http://blog.fatfreevegan.com/">http://blog.fatfreevegan.com/</a> blog - tons of good recipes on her site - check it out!<br />
<br />
Green on Green Soup:<br />
1 large sweet onion chopped<br />
1 Tbs diced garlic (about 3 cloves)<br />
2 ribs celery chopped<br />
4 carrots (not baby) coined <br />
2/3 cup dried green split peas<br />
3 large handfuls of spinach<br />
1 sweet potato chopped<br />
2 teas dried basil<br />
2 pieces dried seaweed crumbled (opt)<br />
4 cups veggie broth<br />
4 cups water<br />
1 veggie bullion cube<br />
1 teas Mrs Dash seasoning<br />
2 teas nutritional yeast (opt)<br />
1 Tbs lemon juice <br />
ground black pepper and sea salt to taste <br />
<br />
Saute veggies in order, add liquids and seasonings. Bring to a boil (about 6mins) and then reduce and simmer at least one hour. Blend in batches or use immersion blender to blend soup until thick and creamy.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsoAi-NMYkb5LaNnJzTOFwcGos9avKkVj4X8P5_WDZzzr6wan-Uy36j2QtHuC_mBwVEXe0-Hp20msTZWJ8Hy5TnyzzpXS9mCuMDcwPVXNidTmJVG_n9P6LM8ALXuFuq7PUl3K3bTBpKIc/s1600/photo(6).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsoAi-NMYkb5LaNnJzTOFwcGos9avKkVj4X8P5_WDZzzr6wan-Uy36j2QtHuC_mBwVEXe0-Hp20msTZWJ8Hy5TnyzzpXS9mCuMDcwPVXNidTmJVG_n9P6LM8ALXuFuq7PUl3K3bTBpKIc/s320/photo(6).JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
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Serve with sour cream or plain yogurt and/or lemon slices.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2170963964867179301.post-78940099852790116052012-02-17T22:36:00.000-08:002012-02-17T22:36:23.991-08:00homemade 'lara' barsI love these little energy bars - they are a raw food bar that is just SO tasty! I love them and the kids love them - unfortunately, like a lot of really yummy health foods - they are on the PRICEY side at $1=1.50 each. <br />
<br />
So I decided to try my hand at making my own. So far I have only tried one idea but the possibilities are endless:<br />
<br />
1/2 cup whole pitted dates<br />
1/2 cup raw nuts (I used Almonds)<br />
1/2 cup dried unsweetened coconut<br />
11/2 Tbsp cocoa powder<br />
<br />
<br />
run all ingredients through a food processor until the dates and nuts are broken down and the mixture begins to stick together. press into a small pan and cut into small squares. store in the fridge in a covered container.<br />
<br />
YUMM!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2170963964867179301.post-50163377785069036562012-02-15T10:22:00.000-08:002012-02-15T10:25:25.298-08:00Super Nutrient Kale Lentil SoupThis is a revised version of our family's favorite soup which is very good and I have blogged it before. (see original recipe here: <a href="http://www.cancerrd.com/Recipes/lentilkalesoup1.htm">http://www.cancerrd.com/Recipes/lentilkalesoup1.htm</a> ) My KIDS love this soup and REQUEST it often. Here is what I did today:<br />
<br />
<br />
Super nutrient Kale & Lentil Soup:<br />
2 large Leeks rinsed and coined<br />
4 whole Carrots (not baby) rinsed and coined<br />
1 med-large Sweet Potato diced<br />
1 cup brown Lentils<br />
12 cups water<br />
1 veggie broth cube<br />
1 teas Mrs Dash no salt seasoning<br />
1 teas Pink Himalayan Salt<br />
1 pkg SOY sausage (I used Trader joe's Chorizo - which is nice and SPICY :)<br />
1 large bunch Green Curly Kale chopped or torn (dont use stems)<br />
1 pkg sliced Baby Bella Mushrooms<br />
<br />
Saute leeks, carrots, sweet potatoes in a small amount of water. Add lentils, seasonings and water. Bring to a boil and then reduce to med-low. Crumble in soy sausage. Add mushrooms and Kale. Reduce to low and simmer at least one hour - but the longer you let this stuff bubble away the better and better it tastes!!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2170963964867179301.post-67619583580663258802012-02-15T09:02:00.000-08:002012-02-15T09:02:58.384-08:00chocolate green smoothieThis did NOT sound very appetizing to me when I first read the recipe. BUT I gave it a try - cause I am searching for more whole food, plant based, High nutrient recipes. <br />
<br />
Imagine my surprise when this was ACTUALLY yummy - huh :)<br />
<br />
Green Chocolate Smoothie:<br />
(serves 1 - could be doubled)<br />
1 hand-full, baby organic spinach (about 5oz)<br />
1/2 cup frozen blueberries<br />
1/2 banana<br />
2 pitted medjool dates (easily found in bulk section)<br />
1 teas unsweetened cocoa powder <br />
1 cup light chocolate soy or almond milk<br />
<br />
Blend this up really, really well and it comes out a nice milkshak-y consistency. The dates are very sweet - I may only use one the next time I try this :) Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2170963964867179301.post-65053724708110061822012-01-30T10:33:00.000-08:002012-01-30T10:39:03.327-08:00It's raining THEATER!Wow - its been a super busy, crazy theater filled life these past few weeks!!<br />
<br />
Into The Woods closed last weekend - what a fun show that is! I had a pretty small part in this production - so I had lots of time to help with building the set and once we opened helping other cast mates with their quick changes and makeup. It reminded me how much I enjoy those sorts of creative outlets - arts and crafts, building, painting, makeup etc. I need to find more ways to be creative in my life!<br />
<br />
<br />
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<br />
During our second week of production I had the pleasure of directing a Staged Reading for the annual Fertile Ground Festival in Portland. Its a festival of new works of art (visual, dance, theater, musicals etc) that runs 10 days in Jan every year. Its a festival that is gaining momentum and every year it is bigger & better! I am so pleased to have been a part of it!!<br />
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I've also had a plethora of auditions in the past couple of weeks. I auditioned for the musical You're A Good Man Charlie Brown. I love this show - I played Snoopy in high school and it remains one of my favorite theater memories. The script was revised and expanded for a Broadway revival in 1999 and has a bunch of new music - its fantastic! I got the part of Sally and even though we just started I am having a BLAST at rehearsals so far!<br />
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I also got called in to audition for Imago Theater in Portland. I had sent my resume to this company some time ago - so it was quite a thrill to be chosen for an audition. I felt it went well - but the style of the theater is very avant guard, whimsical, edgy, experimental and alternative. Think - David Mamet meets Cirque de Soliel. (no idea how that is spelled!) Anyway - I didn't get a call back (yet:) for that show - but I hope to have the opportunity to audition for them again!<br />
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Yesterday I had the chance to participate in a singing 'Salon' with some of Portland's finest voices. Its quite an honor to be included and once you are 'in' on the salons it becomes a 'soft audition' of sorts. Lots of sharing, feedback and a very relaxed and encouraging atmosphere! What a neat experience!! I sang two pieces and it went very well! The gal 'in charge' made a point of saying how she was looking forward to working with me in the future - that is a very good sign!! This group puts together some pretty fantastic professional Cabaret shows at a very cool venue in Portland. Fingers crossed!!!<br />
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And finally! I have started teaching an acting class for adults with one of the local community theaters here in Vancouver. Its the kind of class I have always wanted to teach - and I am having a good time with it! It is so rewarding to pass on the things you have learned and see others grow in their craft! Also, I have a potential job offer from a theater school in West Linn (suburb of Portland) and am waiting to hear back on that - so exciting!! If I get it - I will be teaching weekend seminars for advanced teen actors in the summer - how cool is that?!<br />
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So thats all the theater going on right now for me! whew! I'd say that was all - but Hannah is still plugging away with the Junior Symphony of Vancouver and rapidly growing into a find cellist. She is also now first chair in her school orchestra :) And Eric is back in the Pit playing guitar for New Century Players upcoming "Hairspray!". So between the three of us - there is not one day a week without somekind of rehearsal!!<br />
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I wouldn't have it any other way :)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2170963964867179301.post-4226150441458058092012-01-19T18:31:00.000-08:002012-01-19T18:34:46.599-08:00Forks over KnivesWe just watched this documentary the other night and I cant stop thinking about it! There was so much information that I had to watch it again - and I even bought the book! Basically its a preventative approach to cancer, heart disease, diabetes and other common killers in North America.<br />
<br />
The idea is to focus more (or even entirely) on a Plant-based, Whole foods diet. Thats it. No pills, potions, and moderate exercise and sleep. Basically eat 90% (or more) of your foods from things that are plant-based (fruit, veggies, grains, legumes & nuts) and 10% or less from dairy, fish and meat. <br />
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Since I don't eat much, if any red meat and pork anyway - for me this is a pretty simple and enlightening prospect. I've been reading so much about the benefits of organic produce and wanting to incorporate that more into our day to day living anyway so this is a good fit! I highly recommend this documentary - available on Netflicks.<br />
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Tonite made a recipe that I have made before (usually using lean ground turkey) but this time subbing in tofu instead. Everyone (except Thaniel) thought the tofu version was even tastier! Give it a try!<br />
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Tofu & Mushroom Asian Style Lettuce Wraps<br />
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(this is enough for 4 hungry adults - you could half or double depending on your needs)<br />
<br />
In an electric skillet or Large non-stick pan dry fry:<br />
1/2 med onion diced<br />
1 pkg (about 2 cups) mushrooms diced (I used baby bellas but white button would be fine too)<br />
2 pkgs extra firm silken tofu drained and rough chopped<br />
2 cans sliced water chestnuts drained and chopped<br />
1/2 cup raw walnuts chopped<br />
1 bunch cilantro rinsed and chopped<br />
<br />
<br />
1 teas chinese mustard<br />
1 tbs (or to taste) chili sauce<br />
1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce<br />
<br />
1 teas hot chilli oil with peanut (optional but good - find this in an Asian grocery)<br />
<br />
heat over med until tofu breaks up and mushrooms are cooked through (about 10mins) Mix together mustard, chilli sauce, oil (if using) and soy sauce. Pour over tofu mixture and stir to combine.<br />
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Serve with large green leaf lettuce or iceburg lettuce leaves. I leave the soy sauce and chilli sauce on the table for anyone who wants it saltier or spicier.<br />
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AMAZING. EASY. YUMMY xxxxxx<br />
.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2170963964867179301.post-35523276001045111232011-12-14T00:29:00.000-08:002011-12-14T00:29:57.150-08:00It's beginning to look alot like . . .My cell phone takes really crappy pictures. Unfortunately Nathaniel has absconded the real camera as he is really into 'stop motion' recently. Anyway, you will just have to take my word for it that it looks pretty! I just love decorating for Christmas - wish I had more money and time to devote to it. But then again - making do sometimes forces us to be more creative :)<br />
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Hope you and yours have a warm, cheerful and peaceful Christmas season. Many blessings!<br />
<br />
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