A Few Simple Concoctions!

I have been thinking about all of the staples likely found in most refrigerator doors, pantry shelves and bread baskets.  I am not thinking big, here, I am thinking condiments.  Ketchup, mustard, salad dressing, mayo, barbecue sauce, hot sauce, etc.  Instead of asking you again to read the labels, which I know you are planning to, I am just going to suggest that as you run out you don't replace them;  instead, make them yourselves!

Try this simple concoction for ketchup:

• 2 (6 ounce) cans organic tomato paste 
• (saltless, sugarless, plain ol' tomato paste)
• 1/2 cup white good quality vinegar
• 4 tablespoons good brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon organic garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon organic onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon allspice
• 1 teaspoon salt (or less)
• 1 teaspoon good molasses
• 1 teaspoon agave nectar or raw sugar
• 2 1/2 cups water

Throw everything in a pot, cover (almost) and simmer over low heat for 2 hours, or until it reaches ketchup consistency.  

What about Mayo?  Super simple:

• 1 large egg yolk, at room temperature 30 minutes
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 3/4 cup olive or vegetable oil (or a combination), divided
• 1 teaspoon white-wine vinegar or cider vinegar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper

Whisk together yolk, mustard, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until combined well. Add about 1/4 cup oil drop by drop, whisking constantly until mixture begins to thicken. Whisk in vinegar and lemon juice, then add remaining 1/2 cup oil in a very slow, thin stream, whisking constantly until well blended. If at any time it appears that oil is not being incorporated, stop adding oil and whisk mixture vigorously until smooth, then continue adding oil. Whisk in salt to taste and white pepper. Chill, surface covered with plastic wrap, until ready to use.

(I add different spices and peppers to the recipe every time I make mayo.  Garlic and cayenne pepper are my favorites!)

Salad dressings are no different.  Vinaigrettes are are blends of vinegar, oil, an acid and a juice (fruit or vegetable).  Easy!  Cheap!  Delicious!  Creamy dressings are very easy as well.  With a few fresh, delicious ingredients and your own imagination, you will know exactly what you are eating!  Try some of the recipes from Eating Well!

Health isn't abut taking drastic measures to cut out all fat and salt and adopt someone else's way of 'living right'.  Health is about finding your own way to feel good!  Find the things you feel good about replacing.  Experiment with new foods and recipes that sound good to you.  But, remember to choose real, whole, naturally occurring foods.  Wash them in with water.  Give your vitamins their vitamins and, as always, remember to wash your hands.

Anna