Food and Recipes while under Coronavirus quarantine #8

[whiterhino]

For veggie lasagna, I would order whole grain lasagna pasta. I've been thinking about how to make an acceptable lasagna. I found one place to order whole grain lasagna pasta online. I'd probably substitute low fat cottage cheese for ricotta, but I can find a suitable mozzarella. There's a fat free ricotta made, but it isn't available in any supermarket near where I live. Ricotta is unfortunately high in saturated fat and sodium. I'll experiment

I didn't think about polenta and I'll look at that.

I was told to stay away from both white and brown rice, unfortunately.

Chicken Cacciatore without the wine sounds promising, as @slowpoke noted.

There are many alternative pastas but I haven't seen anything in a lasagna noodle. A lot of chickpea and spinach pastas tho, so keep that in mind.

Noting that butter beans could also be a good backup in your cupboard. They're easy to whip up and super healthy.

Low fat cottage cheese is prob the safer way to go. Otherwise a low fat milk and DIY ricotta but easier to use store bought imo.

Polenta is used in a lot of Italian dishes! It would be easy to tailor it for your dietary needs as it's cornmeal essentially.

I'd have thought maybe brown or wild rice would be a safer alternative, as in white starches are off limits. Chicken cacciatore is so good... when it's made the right way!

 

[snooptroop88]

There are many alternative pastas but I haven't seen anything in a lasagna noodle. A lot of chickpea and spinach pastas tho, so keep that in mind.

Noting that butter beans could also be a good backup in your cupboard. They're easy to whip up and super healthy.

Low fat cottage cheese is prob the safer way to go. Otherwise a low fat milk and DIY ricotta but easier to use store bought imo.

Polenta is used in a lot of Italian dishes! It would be easy to tailor it for your dietary needs as it's cornmeal essentially.

I'd have thought maybe brown or wild rice would be a safer alternative, as in white starches are off limits. Chicken cacciatore is so good... when it's made the right way!

No rice, hmm. That's kind of a problem, rice really comes in handy. Barley? Barley's super healthy. Quinoa? Couscous? Cauliflower rice is something I'm seeing recommended as an alternative, too.

Like zuchini with "zoodles," have found cauliflower to be something of a godsend in many bad situations. While I'm not a big fan of zuchini, I love cauliflower. Roasted, fried,raw, don't care, love the stuff. I mean, they even have cauliflower crust pizza right now.

 

[IceIce9]

Well this is a new reason for food recall, shrimp that could possibly be radioactive, yikes!

FDA warns public not to eat possibly radioactive shrimp sold at Walmart

The FDA is warning the public not to eat, sell or serve certain Great Value raw frozen shrimp sold at Walmart due to possible contamination with Cesium-137.

abcnews.go.com

All products from the company are now banned from coming into the U.S. "until the firm has resolved the conditions that gave rise to the appearance of the violation," the FDA said.

Cesium is a soft, flexible, silvery-white metal that becomes liquid near room temperature, but easily bonds with chlorides to create a crystalline powder, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

External exposure to large amounts of Cesium-137, according to the EPA, can cause burns, acute radiation sickness and even death.

 

[iamshadow21]

Well this is a new reason for food recall, shrimp that could possibly be radioactive, yikes!

FDA warns public not to eat possibly radioactive shrimp sold at Walmart

The FDA is warning the public not to eat, sell or serve certain Great Value raw frozen shrimp sold at Walmart due to possible contamination with Cesium-137.

abcnews.go.com

All products from the company are now banned from coming into the U.S. "until the firm has resolved the conditions that gave rise to the appearance of the violation," the FDA said.

Cesium is a soft, flexible, silvery-white metal that becomes liquid near room temperature, but easily bonds with chlorides to create a crystalline powder, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

External exposure to large amounts of Cesium-137, according to the EPA, can cause burns, acute radiation sickness and even death.

And here I am, just finished my reread of The Radium Girls. Excellent, but a brutal accounting of what happens when you eat radioactive stuff.

Yeah, don't eat the radioactive shrimp, folks.

 

[IceIce9]

And here I am, just finished my reread of The Radium Girls. Excellent, but a brutal accounting of what happens when you eat radioactive stuff.

Yeah, don't eat the radioactive shrimp, folks.

The “possibly radioactive” shrimp recall is being expanded.

The recall now involves shrimp sold in these states:

• Alabama
• Arizona
• California
• Massachusetts
• Minnesota
• Pennsylvania
• Utah
• Virginia
• Washington

FDA recalls more potentially radioactive frozen shrimp sold in the US

The Food and Drug Administration issues a second recall on frozen shrimp after potential exposure to radioactive material.

www.usatoday.com

I’ve watched The Radium Girls too. In fact, I used to teach a Radiation safety class when I was an instructor at an x-ray school. We discussed many different historical examples of illnesses and deaths due to radiation.

Another good example of deaths due to radiation occurred from x-ray shoe fitters that were used in shoe stores back in the 1940s and 1950s. Unshielded x-ray was used to visualize bones in the foot when fitting shoes in the shoe stores.

 

[anneg]

The “possibly radioactive” shrimp recall is being expanded.

The recall now involves shrimp sold in these states:

• Alabama
• Arizona
• California
• Massachusetts
• Minnesota
• Pennsylvania
• Utah
• Virginia
• Washington

FDA recalls more potentially radioactive frozen shrimp sold in the US

The Food and Drug Administration issues a second recall on frozen shrimp after potential exposure to radioactive material.

www.usatoday.com

I’ve watched The Radium Girls too. In fact, I used to teach a Radiation safety class when I was an instructor at an x-ray school. We discussed many different historical examples of illnesses and deaths due to radiation.

Another good example of deaths due to radiation occurred from x-ray shoe fitters that were used in shoe stores back in the 1940s and 1950s. Unshielded x-ray was used to visualize bones in the foot when fitting shoes in the shoe stores.

I remember using at least one of those shoe fitting fluoroscope machines when I was young. It was interesting to see how your feet looked in new shoes.

 

[BetteDavisEyes]

Sharing some recent food/dining experiences...

Michigan corn is in season. It's not the best crop but we are still happy to enjoy corn on the cob this season. I also made succotash on Saturday - a colorful and delicious vegetable dish to accompany jumbo grilled shrimp. Finally had some good-tasting Michigan tomatoes.

A couple of weeks ago, we had decided on takeout from one of our regular spots - New York Burger & Grill. I like their chicken tenders and DH usually gets a Reuben sandwich. The restaurant also has awesome an breakfast menu. When DH called to place our order, no one answered the phone, so he decided to just go, order in person, and stop in Kroger for a few things. The restaurant was closed - evidently, the power in the shopping center had gone out earlier, so some shop owners closed up and went home. The new Thai restaurant next door to NYB&G was open, so DH decided to get takeout there. We have little experience with Thai cuisine, so DH asked the hostess for recommendations. DH got Shrimp Pad Thai for me and Chicken with veggies and rice for himself. Mild spice for both of us. We really enjoyed the food and have actually had Best Thai takeout again. DH had another chicken dish with cashews, veggies, and rice, while I tried appetizers Chicken Satay with peanut sauce and spring rolls with plum sauce. The entree portions are easily sharable, so there is no need to order full meals for both of us. We had been very disappointed with P.F. Chang's the last couple of times we got takeout, so we're happy to have an Asian alternative nearby, and we're learning to like Thai food. Best Thai Cuisine in Troy

We went to our only Detroit Tiger game yesterday followed by dinner at Ruth's Chris Steakhouse. Even though the Tigers lost to the KC Royals 10-8, the game was fun and exciting. Lots of kids and families on Sunday afternoon - really nice to see so many Tiger fans enjoying a gorgeous summer day at Comerica Park. We had a $50 gift card that we won at the Ruth's Chris wine dinner in June, so it seemed a good choice for dinner after the ballgame. We had a lovely bottle of Pinot Noir that a previous server had recommended. We'd never had the crabcake appetizer before and decided to try it. The sizzling plate had two large crabcakes that were delicious but really needed some lemon or remoulade to render them perfect. We'd order the crabcakes again and ask for lemon wedges for garnish. I had the lamb chops - medium rare and nicely seasoned. DH had an 8oz. filet mignon that he deemed perfect. We shared asparagus with our entrees. The wine dinner we attended was on our 54th wedding anniversary, June 25, but yesterday (August 24) was the 58th anniversary of our first date - a Tiger game in 1967. Our very sweet service brought us a complimentary dessert because she was touched by our love story.

https://m.ruthschris.com/locations/mi/troy/troy/7313

Tonight we are having butterfly pork chops with grilled peaches, Persian cucumbers with grape tomatoes and spring onions. Bon appetit!

 

[iamshadow21]

Sharing some recent food/dining experiences...

Michigan corn is in season. It's not the best crop but we are still happy to enjoy corn on the cob this season. I also made succotash on Saturday - a colorful and delicious vegetable dish to accompany jumbo grilled shrimp. Finally had some good-tasting Michigan

A couple of weeks ago, we had decided on takeout from one of our regular spots - New York Burger & Grill. I like their chicken tenders and DH usually gets a Reuben sandwich. The restaurant also has awesome breakfast menu. When DH called to place our order, no one answered the phone, so he decided to just go, order in person, and stop in Kroger for a few things. The restaurant was closed - evidently, the power in the shopping center had gone out earlier, so some shop owners closed up and went home. The new Thai restaurant next door to NYB&G was open, so DH decided to get takeout there. We have little experience with Thai cuisine, so DH asked the hostess for recommendations. DH got Shrimp Pad Thai for me and Chicken with veggies and rice for himself. Mild spice for both of us. We really enjoyed the food and have actually had Best Thai takeout again. DH had another chicken dish with cashews, veggies, and rice, while I tried appetizers Chicken Satay with peanut sauce and spring rolls with plum sauce. The entree portions are easily sharable, so there is no need to order full meals for both of us. We had been very disappointed with P.F. Chang's the last couple of times we got takeout, so we're happy to have an Asian alternative nearby, and we're learning to like Thai food. Best Thai Cuisine in Troy

We went to our only Detroit Tiger game yesterday followed by dinner at Ruth's Chris Steakhouse. Even though the Tigers lost to the KC Royals 10-8, the game was fun and exciting. Lots of kids and families on Sunday afternoon - really nice to see so many Tiger fans enjoying a gorgeous summer day at Comerica Park. We had a $50 gift card that we won at the Ruth's Chris wine dinner in June, so it seemed a good choice for dinner after the ballgame. We had a lovely bottle of Pinot Noir that a previous server had recommended. We'd never had the crabcake appetizer before and decided to try it. The sizzling plate had two large crabcakes that were delicious but really needed some lemon or remoulade to render them perfect. We'd order the crabcakes again and ask for lemon wedges for garnish. I had the lamb chops - medium rare and nicely seasoned. DH had an 8oz. filet mignon that he deemed perfect. We shared asparagus with our entrees. The wine dinner we attended was on our 54th wedding anniversary, June 25, but yesterday (August 24) was the 58th anniversary of our first date - a Tiger game in 1967. Our very sweet service brought us a complimentary dessert because she was touched by our love story.

https://m.ruthschris.com/locations/mi/troy/troy/7313

Tonight we are having butterfly pork chops with grilled peaches, Persian cucumbers with grape tomatoes and spring onions. Bon appetit!

There's a Thai restaurant we used to go to over a decade ago, we still miss their Crispy Tamarind Chicken. Thai is lovely, lovely cuisine. Can be challenging if you have the gene that makes coriander/cilantro taste like soap, but luckily, I don't.

 

[BetteDavisEyes]

Pumpkin spice lattes are back: How to treat yourself without the price pinch

You don't need to let rising coffee prices get in the way of your autumn indulgences.

www.nbcnews.com

It’s that time of year again. For many it’s not the crisp air, colorful foliage or even the autumnal equinox itself that signals the change of seasons. Instead, it’s the warm, spiced comfort that comes with that first sip of a pumpkin spice latte.

Starbucks created its iconic version of the drink in 2003, sparking a global cultural phenomenon. And now Starbucks and coffee chains like Dunkin’ and Peet’s are rolling out their full fall menus, some with pumpkin spice lattes at the top of the list. Others are offering new flavors expected to generate buzz.

But with that excitement brewing, this year feels different. Festive drinks are arriving as the cost of coffee climbs higher, with climate change and President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs expected to take a real toll...

 

[anneg]

Pumpkin spice lattes are back: How to treat yourself without the price pinch

You don't need to let rising coffee prices get in the way of your autumn indulgences.

www.nbcnews.com

It’s that time of year again. For many it’s not the crisp air, colorful foliage or even the autumnal equinox itself that signals the change of seasons. Instead, it’s the warm, spiced comfort that comes with that first sip of a pumpkin spice latte.

Starbucks created its iconic version of the drink in 2003, sparking a global cultural phenomenon. And now Starbucks and coffee chains like Dunkin’ and Peet’s are rolling out their full fall menus, some with pumpkin spice lattes at the top of the list. Others are offering new flavors expected to generate buzz.

But with that excitement brewing, this year feels different. Festive drinks are arriving as the cost of coffee climbs higher, with climate change and President Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs expected to take a real toll...

I have never had a pumpkin spice latte and prefer not to have other flavorings in coffee. We mostly buy Peet's Major Dickason's Blend ground decaf coffee, and I just realized I can order it in a six-pack from Costco and save money!

 

[IceIce9]

View this content on Instagram

View this content on Instagram

 

[snooptroop88]

I have never had a pumpkin spice latte and prefer not to have other flavorings in coffee. We mostly buy Peet's Major Dickason's Blend ground decaf coffee, and I just realized I can order it in a six-pack from Costco and save money!

Agreed on the flavorings. Chocolate, yes, maybe caramel, but that's it for me, and if those are tossed in, iced.

 

[IceIce9]

I have never had a pumpkin spice latte and prefer not to have other flavorings in coffee. We mostly buy Peet's Major Dickason's Blend ground decaf coffee, and I just realized I can order it in a six-pack from Costco and save money!

I love pumpkin. In a good homemade pumpkin pie, and maybe a pumpkin cake roll with cream cheese filling that the Amish make.

But I don’t want pumpkin spice coffee or anything else that is flooding the grocery stores and restaurants. It’s like pumpkin spice overload.

I’ve even seen pumpkin spice flavored dog bones.

 

[Tealgrove]

I believe Lyle's golden syrup, the leading brand in the UK, is available from some US stores but is quite expensive.

The traditional UK "treacle sponge pudding" uses golden syrup rather than actual treacle, although some recipes do add a small amount of treacle.

I remember my mother in the 1970s mixing golden syrup with peanut butter to create a sauce for use in ice cream sundaes. I want to say it was a 50/50 mix, but maybe she used only enough syrup to make the peanut butter "run" a bit. She layered the sauce with vanilla ice cream and chopped salted peanuts and topped it off with chopped salted peanuts. Very sophisticated for the UK in the 1970s.

I put a touch of Lyle’s on my oatmeal. Love it.

 

[Tealgrove]

I love pumpkin. In a good homemade pumpkin pie, and maybe a pumpkin cake roll with cream cheese filling that the Amish make.

But I don’t want pumpkin spice coffee or anything else that is flooding the grocery stores and restaurants. It’s like pumpkin spice overload.

I’ve even seen pumpkin spice flavored dog bones.

Pumpkin loaf! Warm with a wee bit of butter (warmed). It’s so good.

 

[Gemmie]

Ricotta is unfortunately high in saturated fat and sodium. I'll experiment

Not if you make your own ricotta. You can control the salt. It's simple and only takes 3 ingredients. Well, and cheesecloth for straining but that's not exactly an ingredient. You should check it out.

Homemade Ricotta Cheese: Only 3 Ingredients!

With just 3 simple ingredients, you can make this creamy homemade fresh ricotta cheese. It's easy, economical and tastes great!

www.shelovesbiscotti.com

 

[Curious Me]

For various reasons, I put a drizzle of Grandma's Unsulphured Molasses on my Oatmeal. One benefit is it supplies some iron. I really like the taste of molasses.​

6 Potential Benefits of Blackstrap Molasses

Blackstrap molasses contains numerous vitamins and minerals. Here are 6 potential health benefits of blackstrap molasses.

www.healthline.com

 

[snooptroop88]

For various reasons, I put a drizzle of Grandma's Unsulphured Molasses on my Oatmeal. One benefit is it supplies some iron. I really like the taste of molasses.​

View attachment 611357

6 Potential Benefits of Blackstrap Molasses

Blackstrap molasses contains numerous vitamins and minerals. Here are 6 potential health benefits of blackstrap molasses.

www.healthline.com

I have a jar of that as well.

 

[Curious Me]

For various reasons, I put a drizzle of Grandma's Unsulphured Molasses on my Oatmeal. One benefit is it supplies some iron. I really like the taste of molasses.​

6 Potential Benefits of Blackstrap Molasses

Blackstrap molasses contains numerous vitamins and minerals. Here are 6 potential health benefits of blackstrap molasses.

www.healthline.com

I have a jar of that as well.

I need to point out that Grandma's Molasses although unsulfured (or unsulphured) is not considered "Blackstrap" molasses, which would be thicker, darker, and have a different taste. They both still have benefits. As you probably know, molasses are good in making Baked Beans.

It has to say Blackstrap or Final molasses.

In fact, ounce for ounce, blackstrap molasses contains more iron than eggs, more calcium than milk, and more potassium than any other food (3). In addition, it provides 18 amino acids (1).
​

What is the difference between sulfured and unsulfured molasses?

Sulfured molasses is made from immature green sugarcane that is treated with sulfur fumes during the sugar extracting process, whereas Grandma’s unsulfured molasses is made of the finest quality pure unsulfured liquid of sun-ripened sugarcane.​

 

[anneg]

For various reasons, I put a drizzle of Grandma's Unsulphured Molasses on my Oatmeal. One benefit is it supplies some iron. I really like the taste of molasses.​

View attachment 611357

6 Potential Benefits of Blackstrap Molasses

Blackstrap molasses contains numerous vitamins and minerals. Here are 6 potential health benefits of blackstrap molasses.

www.healthline.com

In the distant past I made Indian Pudding with molasses and it was delicious. The recipe I used made a large amount of the pudding, and I don't remember if I ever made it again. I doubt if I still have the recipe. It may have been similar to this one:

This Molasses-Sweetened Baked Custard Dates Back to New England's Colonial Days

This lightly spiced baked custard is a perfect recipe for Thanksgiving or a delicious taste of the past.

www.simplyrecipes.com