February 2023 - Page 7 of 29

February 23, 2023

Magnesium-Rich Vegan Arroz Con Leche Recipe

Have you ever taken a bite out of something that instantly triggered a rush of memories, taking you back to your childhood days? Researchers have long studied the link between food and memories. Some have said it’s because of the strong stimulus that engages all five senses as you eat, while others chalk it up to conditioned taste aversion, in which humans avoid foods that previously made them ill, and conversely gravitate to foods that they did enjoy.

Either way, a bite of arroz con leche is enough to send me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where cooking this classic dish was as routine as brushing one’s teeth.

Arroz con leche, which is Spanish for rice with milk, is a rice pudding dish typically made with rice mixed with milk, cinnamon, vanilla, raisins, and a sweetener. But depending on who you ask, families often have varying twists to this simple recipe (mine, for instance, loves to add a sprinkle of nutmeg—highly recommend). And while this dish is popular in South America, variations of rice pudding exist worldwide; in India, it’s kheer, and in Greece, it’s rizogalo, to name a few. But regardless of where you find it, this comforting dish is as soothing for the soul and as nostalgia-inducing as eating a pint of Ben & Jerry’s chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream straight out of the container.

This is why we couldn’t contain our excitement when we came across a vegan arroz con leche recipe. Traditionally, this dessert features milk. However, this version calls for dairy-free ingredients suitable for those with lactose intolerance or sensitivities to milk. Plus, it comes together with six simple household staple ingredients. Basically, it’s the perfect excuse to whip together a batch of this comforting dessert and feed your inner child what it craves.

Health benefits of this vegan arroz con leche recipe

This vegan arroz con leche recipe by The Almond Eater is the most delicious grown-up, glowed-up vegan version of the classic childhood dish. Unlike the dairy-based milk typically used to make arroz con leche, recipe developer Erin calls for non-dairy alternatives, like oat or almond milk.

The star ingredient in this recipe—rice—is packed with health benefits like B vitamins, magnesium, and iron, and it’s how this dish gets its iconic creamy, ridiculously rich texture. (FYI: If white rice isn’t your usual go-to, you can always swap it out for brown rice, but it won’t be as soft and sticky as white rice.) And while most arroz con leche recipes call for a substantial amount of sugar, this recipe is naturally sweetened with just a hint of maple syrup. Finally, for that velvety and so-warming taste, this dish is made with a powerful anti-inflammatory spice, cinnamon, which infuses the pudding with both rich flavor and antioxidants.

To ensure that this dish comes out as perfect as you remember, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. For starters, you’ll want to ensure you’re frequently stirring the ingredients in the pot to help redistribute the heat and prevent burning or sticking to the pan. Additionally, you can adjust the milk quantity to your liking—if you enjoy a creamier and milkier pudding, simply add more milk until you achieve the desired consistency. Either way, this dish will instantly unlock fond core memories…or create new ones.

Vegan arroz con leche recipe

Yields 4 servings

Ingredients
1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
2 cups water
3 cinnamon sticks
3 cups dairy-free milk (or more, as needed)
1/3 cup maple syrup or more to taste
1/2 Tsp vanilla
1/4 Tsp cinnamon (optional)

1. Add rice, water, and cinnamon sticks to a large saucepan or dutch oven and bring to a boil. Boil rice for 8-10 minutes or until the rice has absorbed the water.

2. Then, remove the cinnamon sticks, add the milk, syrup, and vanilla, and stir, then bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste test and add more syrup and/or ground cinnamon if desired.

3. Serve warm, or place in the refrigerator for a few hours, then enjoy cold, and enjoy!

These glazed lemon donuts are what dreams are made of:

February 23, 2023

15 Cinco de Mayo drink recipes, from margaritas to palomas

Cinco de Mayo, which falls at the beginning of May, is the perfect time to embrace the warmer weather and get together with friends over margaritas, palomas and perhaps the stray shot of tequila. But before you get to sipping, it’s important to understand what the holiday is all about.

Cinco de Mayo may be widely understood in the U.S. as “Mexican Independence Day,” but it’s actually meant to commemorate Mexico’s victory over the French during the Battle of Puebla, which took place in 1862. The holiday is mostly celebrated by Mexican-Americans who live in the U.S., but it’s also celebrated in Puebla, the town in which the battle took place. Some companies have capitalized on the holiday as little more than an excuse to imbibe (and buy more alcoholic products), but understanding the roots of Cinco de Mayo is an important aspect of celebrating with respect.

For those who want to celebrate without having to leave home, we’ve compiled this list of some of our favorite Mexican and Mexican-inspired cocktails and nonalcoholic creations. From the super-simple margarita to unexpectedly complex riffs on classics like palomas and sangria, these refreshing and citrus-forward cocktails are ideal for all of your spring celebrations. Grab a bottle of tequila, start squeezing fresh limes and ready your cocktail shaker for these mouth-watering Cinco de Mayo drinks.

The Perfect Margarita by Maureen C. Petrosky

You need just three ingredients to make this simple-but-delicious margarita — but you can take it to the next level with a variety of add-ons. A splash of club soda will give you a fizzy margarita, and jalapeño slices can add a hint of spice. Don’t forget to add a salted rim for a savory touch.

Frozen Palomas by Mary Giuliani

It’s hard to make a cocktail more refreshing than this frozen paloma. Grapefruit juice and lime juice join forces to create a citrus-y base for the drink, while the agave syrup adds a bit of sweetness to tone down the intensity of the tequila. Freeze the juice and blend all the ingredients together for a supreme sipper.

Tequila Sunrise Sangria by Ingrid Hoffmann

Freshly squeezed lime juice is essential for this classic margarita cocktail that’s spiked with Cointreau and sweetened with simple syrup. Add all of the ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice to produce a drink that’s a step up from the frozen margarita mix you likely used in college.

Classic Margarita Cocktail by Ivy Mix

Why choose between a Mexican tequila sunrise and a Spanish sangria when you can have the best of both worlds? This tequila- and wine-based cocktail balances the sweetness of fresh fruit with the fresh acidity of juicy limes. It’s ideal for warm-weather sipping.

Paloma Mezcal Cocktail by Ingrid Hoffmann

One average paloma gets an upgrade with this recipe that calls for smoky mezcal and orange liqueur. A splash of soda gives this drink just enough fizz to make it even more refreshing, and the lime wedge for garnish makes it feel extra celebratory.

Smoky and Spicy Grilled Citrus Margaritas by James Briscione

This margarita recipe bucks convention by calling for grilled citrus instead of fresh, which lends a smokiness to the cocktail that’s only enhanced by the inclusion of mezcal. Add some hot sauce to the mix for an impressive kick and surprising complexity.

Grapefruit Spritz by Jordan Salcito

This alcohol-free mocktail is perfect to pair with your taco spread without forcing you to imbibe. Soda water and ginger ale provide the fizzy base for freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, while Angostura bitters add a depth you won’t find in a typical soda.

4-Ingredient Skinny Margarita by Maya, New York City

Fresh lime juice plays a starring role in this drink and offers a punch of acidity to complement the savory, salt-rimmed serving glass. By swapping sugar for Splenda, you can make your very own skinny margarita without having to purchase a pre-made mix.

Paloma Punch by Maureen Petrosky

For those who love palomas but are trying to limit their alcohol intake, this paloma punch recipe is perfect. Forget the tequila; grapefruit juice, lime juice, simple syrup and grapefruit-flavored sparkling water do the heavy lifting here. Add a rosemary sprig garnish to give your punch a lovely aromatic quality.

Coconut Lime Margarita by Pati Jinich

Give your standard frozen margarita recipe an upgrade by adding baked shredded coconut and coconut cream to the mix. This frozen margarita balances the subtle sweetness of coconut with the bracing acidity you’re used to from this typically lime-heavy cocktail.

Jenna After Dark Cocktail by Tiffanie Barriere

The typical spicy margarita gets an upgrade with this creative cocktail recipe that calls for jalapeño slices and apple-pepper jelly, the latter of which lends a surprising creaminess to the recipe. The brown sugar and salt rim will please both sweet and savory cocktail lovers.

Martha Stewart’s Grapefruit-Sanbitter Spritz by Martha Stewart

For this Cinco de Mayo mocktail, Martha Stewart uses Sanbitter, which has a flavor profile that’s similar to Campari, to add a touch of pleasant bitterness to this grapefruit juice and ginger ale concoction. A citrus wedge garnish makes this drink feel perfect for a special occasion.

Best Limeade by Jordan Salcito

This super-simple mocktail is ideal for booze-free sipping on Cinco de Mayo. Start by making a lime simple syrup, then add it to freshly squeezed lime juice and soda water. Floral notes from the mint garnish ensure this lime-forward drink isn’t too one-note.

Coffee Margarita by

Adding coffee to a margarita might not sound like a natural pairing, but this unconventional recipe results in a deeply complex, layered cocktail that offers a fun alternative to an espresso martini. Toasted sesame oil lends a rich, umami quality to the cocktail, and the kumquat garnish offers a pop of bright color.

Mint Tea Stargarita by

This margarita recipe is a stark departure from your typical restaurant cocktail. The tequila is infused with peppermint tea, which gives the drink its signature coolness. Starfruit garnishes are an unexpected but gorgeous addition to the mango liqueur-spiked cocktail.

This article was originally published on TODAY.com

February 23, 2023

29 bestselling Amazon kitchen gadgets to simplify your life in 2023

Spending hours chopping and stirring to prepare a delicious meal that gets eaten in 15 minutes can drain the joy out of cooking faster than boiling an egg. If you want to simplify your time in the kitchen, there are hundreds of products on the market today that promise to slice, dice and chop vegetables effortlessly; make the perfect latte; cut an avocado in perfectly even slices; or present you with a beautiful scoop of ice cream. Problem is, many of these claims fall short – their blades are hard to clean, there’s no space in your cabinets to store the “ingenious” item, or in the end it’s so complicated that relying on traditional methods is easier.

“I love kitchen gadgets, but you definitely need to read the reviews,” said Rachel Rotunno, owner of catering event company Grazing Cape Cod in Falmouth, Massachusetts. Her company, which serves Martha’s Vineyard, Nantucket and Cape Cod, creates grazing boards, charcuterie boards and charcuterie tables filled with fresh, local ingredients from farmers, fishermen, bakeries, honey harvesters and more. “Prep is huge,” she said. “We spend four to eight hours prepping for just one event – cutting cheeses, cutting vegetables and making designs with fruits – so I love kitchen gadgets. They save so much time.” Some of Rotunno’s favorites include a cheese grater that suctions to her countertop, a mandolin for chopping, and a silicone oyster “pocket” that offers leverage and protects your hands when shucking. “An automated pot stirrer is also great so I can tend to the other things.”

SKIP AHEAD Best time-saving kitchen gadgets | Best fancy kitchen gadgets | Best practical kitchen gadgets | Best space-saving kitchen gadgets

We’ve weeded through hundreds of kitchen gadgets to find the very best ones that actually claim to do what they say – and make you wonder how you ever lived without them. Our comprehensive list of innovative products are not only time savers but problem solvers and space savers to make life in the kitchen easier and more fun.

Best kitchen gadgets of 2023

Below are 29 top-rated kitchen gadgets that consumers say are saving them time, keeping foods fresher, improving pantry organization, providing a cleaner kitchen and upping their culinary skills all around. All have an average 4-star rating or above and store easily in even the smallest kitchens – and they make great gifts, too.

Best time-saving kitchen gadgets

Fullstar All-in-1 Vegetable Chopper

4.6-star average rating from 18,461 Amazon reviews

This No. 1 bestseller weighs just under 4 pounds and has 5 interchangeable stainless-steel blades to chop onions, dice apples, grate cheese, spiralize zucchini and much more, says the brand. You can also ribbon, julienne or noodle your veggies. The Fullstar chopper has a non-slip base and a removable catch tray to cut down on cleanup. It also comes with a cleaning brush, cleaning scraper, blade storage organizer and a finger guard and cut-resistant gloves.

OXO Good Grips Avocado Slicer

4.6-star average rating from 34,233 Amazon reviews

The average American eats more than 7 pounds of avocados annually, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, so this tool could save a lot of time when it comes to slicing, pitting and scooping this popular fruit. According to the brand, it has a non-slip grip, a stainless-steel center that removes the pit with one twist and a blade that cuts the avocado into seven slices. It’s also dishwasher-safe.

Chef’n Cob Corn Stripper

4.2-star average rating from 7,698 Amazon reviews

If you prefer fresh kernels straight from the cob rather than canned corn for your salads, salsa and other recipes, this corn-stripping tool eliminates the struggle. To use, insert the corn into the round cylinder and twist from end to end. The stainless-steel blades remove the kernels and is safe enough for kids to use, says the brand. The Chef’n Cob Corn Stripper is BPA free and dishwasher-safe.

Zulay Premium Apple Corer

4.7-star average rating from 16,220 Amazon reviews

This apple corer gets high marks from reviewers for comfort and efficiency. It has a plastic ergonomic handle that comes in 12 bold colors, along with twin stainless-steel blades that grip the core as the serrated tip slices through the apple. A spring-loaded lever opens the blade halves to release the core. The apple corer can also be used on pears and tomatoes, can remove pits and seeds and is 100{d2b09b03d44633acb673e8080360919f91e60962656af8ade0305d5d8b7e4889} rust-proof, says the brand.

Gidli Heavy-Duty Kitchen Shears/Seafood Scissors Bundle

4.6-star average rating from 8,405 Amazon reviews

These heavy-duty kitchen shears from Gidli cuts through poultry, fish, cooked and raw meat, vegetables, fruit, herbs and more with ease, says the brand. The seafood scissors are specially designed to cut through the tough shells of lobster, king crab, shrimp and other shellfish. The shears and scissors are both made of stainless steel, have ergonomically designed handles and come with a lifetime guarantee.

Gidli Heavy-Duty Kitchen Shears/Seafood Scissors Bundle

Kitchen Gizmo Snap N’ Strain Pot Strainer

4.5-star average rating from 27,487 Amazon reviews

This silicone fine mesh strainer lets you drain water from any round pot, pan or bowl with one hand. It is designed with a drainage spout to maximize drainage, says the brand, and is half the size of a colander, which makes it especially ideal for those with limited counter space. The strainer snaps on to round pots, pans and bowls of all sizes, including glass, wood and lipped bowls, says the brand. It’s BPA-free, heat resistant up to 440 degrees Fahrenheit and dishwasher-safe. The Kitchen Gizmo Snap N’ Strain Pot Strainer comes in four colors, including Lime Green, Gray, Orange and Purple.

Kitchen Gizmo Snap N' Strain Pot Strainer

T hrifty Ice Cream Scoop

4.4-star average rating from 4,834 Amazon reviews

This commercial-grade stainless-steel ice cream scooper was designed to ease the struggle of scooping hard, frozen ice cream and dispensing it as a perfect cylindrical shape into your cone or dish. Push the scooper into the ice cream container, turn it 90 degrees, and pull up on the handle. Two prongs hold on to the ice cream, and when you release the handle, a spring-powered trigger dispenses it.

Kitchen Mama Electric Can Opener

4.3-star average rating from 76,683 Amazon reviews

This portable electric can opener provides a hands-free can-opening solution that is ideal for people with arthritis or other gripping challenges. To use, place it on top of any round can, making sure the blade and gear are on opposite sides of the edge, and push the button. The Kitchen Mama rotates 360 degrees to completely open the can, leaving no sharp edges, says the brand. It runs on 4 AA batteries and comes in five fun colors.

Meyuewal Jar and Bottle Opener Bundle

4.4-star average rating from 22,821 Amazon reviews

There’s nothing worse than struggling to open a jar. This jar opener from Meyuewal has an ergonomic cushioned silicone handle that fits any size hand, even a child’s. It adjusts to four different-sized jars, and its inner rubber lining ensures jars won’t slip when you twist, even when wet, says the brand. The bundle also includes a silicone, easy-grip bottle opener. The bundle pack comes in 13 colors to choose from.

Best fancy kitchen gadgets

Gorilla Grip Magnetic Measuring Spoons

4.8-star average rating from 1,884 Amazon reviews

These measuring spoons have a slip-resistant ergonomic grip and are BPA-free and food- and dishwasher-safe, says the brand. They are also magnetic, so they nest together and stay hitched when stored. The measurement markings are in both Imperial and metric, and each spoon is dual-sided, with an oval, slimmer end to measure solids and fit into spice jars and a round end to measure liquids – eliminating the need to wash in between solids and liquids.

OXO Good Grips Baker’s Dusting Wand

4.8-star average rating from 5,070 Amazon reviews

This duster wand is designed to take the place of large shakers. It can evenly flour baking pans, sprinkle paprika on deviled eggs, dust a souffle with powdered sugar or finish a cappuccino with a bit of cinnamon. It holds between 1 and 2 tablespoons, is made of stainless steel, so it’s rust-proof, and is dishwasher-safe.

Legendary Chef Culinary Cooking Torch

4.5-star average rating from 2,597 Amazon reviews

This handheld butane torch can sear sous vide steaks, melt cheese on nachos, roast tomatoes, caramelize sugar atop creme brulee and more, says the brand. Its body is made of aluminum but you can choose from eight bold colors that accent the torch for a fun look. A safety lock prevents accidental ignition, says the brand, and the handle is designed so your fingers avoid ever touching the flame.

Flafster Kitchen Electric Salt and Pepper Grinder

4.4-star average rating from 11,210 Amazon reviews

Elegantly designed and made of stainless steel, this electric salt-and-pepper set comes in a metal-and-wood caddy and requires 4 AA batteries for each grinder. According to the brand, these grinders can operate using only one hand and are not only useful for grinding Himalayan salt and black peppercorns but other spices as well. You can also adjust the levels between fine, medium and coarse.

Zulay MilkBoss Ultra-Premium Milk Frother

4.6-star average rating from 92,563 Amazon reviews

With the Zulay Milk Frother, serious coffee drinkers will now get their barista-grade cappuccinos, lattes and macchiatos right at home. It works on all types of milk, including soy, almond, half and half, cashew and other dairy products, such as butter, says the brand. It can also be used to mix protein-powder drinks. It’s powered by two AA batteries and comes with its own stand. Zulay also guarantees that it will never rust or break. It comes in 45 bold colors and designs, such as Golden Sunrise, Hearts, Grapefruit, Pink with Gold, and Metallic Green.

Ecolution Micro-Pop Microwave Popcorn Popper

4.4-star average rating from 55,648 Amazon reviews

The healthy alternative to bagged popcorn, the Micro-Pop popcorn maker pops kernels you buy yourself, so there’s no chance of harsh chemicals or preservatives. It comes in two sizes – 1.5 quarts and 3 quarts – and is made of temperature-safe borosilicate glass, says the brand. The lid and borosilicate glass bowl are all dishwasher-safe. It comes in six colors, including Aqua, Yellow, Teal, Hot Pink, Red and Blue.

Kitchy Pizza Cutter Wheel

4.7-star average rating from 37,825 Amazon reviews

Customers love this pizza cutter for its durability and ergonomic design. Because it fits into the palm of your hand, you have more control when slicing through pies, says the brand. It’s dishwasher-safe and also comes with a blade guard to keep your cutter securely stored away when not in use. The Kitchy Pizza Cutter comes in three colors, including Red, Blue and Green.

Hamilton Beach Dual Breakfast Sandwich Maker

4.6-star average rating from 23,645 Amazon reviews

This sandwich maker cooks custom breakfast sandwiches two at a time in as little as 5 minutes, says the brand, making it easy for people on the go. Just build the base of your sandwich on the bottom layer, place an egg and your sandwich’s top layer on the upper cooking plate, and close the lid. It has a countdown timer and a beep will let you know when it’s done. A recipe book with more than 25 recipes is included. All of its removable parts are dishwasher-safe, and at just under 8 inches wide, 10 inches deep and 6 inches high, it’s easy to store or leave on your countertop.

Click & Grow Indoor Herb Garden Kit

4.6-star average rating from 2,084 Amazon reviews

This smart indoor garden lets you grow herbs, vegetables and flowers right on your countertop or windowsill without any sunlight. Just pop in some plant pods (three basil pods are included), fill the water reservoir and plug in the LED light. The lamp automatically cycles for 16 hours on and 8 hours off. The kit measures 9 x 4.9 x 12.5 inches and weighs about 3.5 pounds. Click & Grow also offers more than 50 pre-seeded plant pods for purchase, including cilantro, basil, lavender, wild strawberries, thyme and even chili peppers, or you can purchase seedless pods and drop in your own seeds. The base is available in Beige, Gray or White.

Best practical kitchen gadgets

Dreamfarm Supoon

4.8-star average rating from 4,883 Amazon reviews

The Dreamfarm Supoon lets you scrape, measure, stir, mix, scoop and serve using one spoon. It’s designed with a flat silicone tip, deep scooping head and flexible squeegee sides to make it easy to scrape pans and bowls clean and comes with 15mL tablespoon and 5mL teaspoon measurement lines. The Supoon is safe to use on non-stick cookware, and its silicone tip resists heat up to 500°F. It’s also dishwasher-safe.

NutriChef Vacuum Air Sealing System

4.3-star average rating from 37,379 Amazon reviews

This system vacuum seals your food in environmentally friendly bags so your food stays free of freezer burn and up to five times longer than zippered baggies or containers, says the brand. It has two modes, based on the type of food you want to seal: Choose the dry option for solid food and the moist option for poached, simmered or steamed food. Consumers gave the NutriChef high ratings for its ability to keep food fresh and its ease of use.

Silicone Utensil Rest with Drip Pad

4.7-star average rating from 32,848 Amazon reviews

This silicone resting pad was designed to stop utensils from dripping all over your countertops while cooking. Its spoon rest has four slots and raised edges to catch all the drips. It can hold spoons, spatulas, ladles, brushes, tongs forks and more, says the brand. It has a non-slip base and won’t be affected by the heat from the stove. It comes in 31 colors to match any decor.

Greater Goods Gray Food Scale

4.6-star average rating from 119,710 Amazon reviews

This smart food scale is excellent for measuring your food portions at home. It has an LCD display and an 11-pound capacity and measures right down to the gram. Best of all, it weighs only 7.5 ounces, has a footprint of only 8×6 inches and is less than an inch high. The Gray Food Scale comes in 11 colors.

Best space-saving kitchen gadgets

MayNest Washable Refrigerator Liners

4.3-star average rating from 13,904 Amazon reviews

Keep your refrigerator shelves clean and moisture-free with these washable liners. They fit standard shelves but can also be trimmed to any size. They also work well in pantries, drawers and as placemats, says the brand. They are made of non-toxic 100{d2b09b03d44633acb673e8080360919f91e60962656af8ade0305d5d8b7e4889} food-grade EVA and are odor- and BPA-free, so it’s safe to place food directly on them. Choose from a pack of 8 or 12 liners in various colors.

Mudeela Pots and Pans Organizer

4.2-star average rating from 15,701 Amazon reviews

If you constantly have trouble finding your cookware when you need it, this iron pot organizer rack will help keep your pots, pans, lids, trays, plates, cookie sheets and cutting boards organized and easy to reach. There are eight tiers, and the dividers are adjustable so you can tailor the racks to fit your cookware.

SpaceAid Spice Drawer Organizer

4.8-star average rating from 2,183 Amazon reviews

This drawer organizer fits into a drawer space that’s 2.5 inches high, making it easy to grab your spices when you need them. It comes with a four-tiered spice rack, 28 square empty glass spice jars, 340 pre-printed spice labels and 46 blank labels, along with a chalk marker to DIY some of your own labels.

HOOJO Refrigerator Organizer Bins

4.7-star average rating from 24,483 Amazon reviews

These shatter-proof BPA-free bins are easy to clean and great for organizing your refrigerator and creating more space. This set comes with eight bins to separate fruit, meat, milk, salad dressing, drink bottles, canned food, condiments and more.

Utoplike Bamboo Kitchen Drawer Dividers

4.5-star average rating from 9,254 Amazon reviews

Organize all the utensils in your kitchen with these expandable drawer dividers made of natural bamboo. Each divider has a built-in spring to keep them in place and adjust easily to match your needs. Both ends of the divider also have pads to protect your drawers.

Meet our expert

At Select, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and/or experience. We also take steps to ensure that all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.

Rachel Rotunno is the owner of Grazing Cape Cod, an event catering company specializing in grazing boards, charcuterie boards and grazing tables. They are based in Falmouth, Massachusetts and serve Cape Cod, Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard.

Catch up on Select’s in-depth coverage of personal finance, tech and tools, wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date.

Posted on February 23, 2023
The science behind six popular diet fads, from Keto and Paleo to Low GI and 5:2

It seemed like a magic option when the strategy was first popularised by Dr Michael Mosley: “fast” for two times in the 7 days, consuming amongst 500 energy (girls) and 600 calories (guys), and then try to eat a healthful, balanced food plan for the remaining 5 days.

Because then, the time period intermittent fasting has been employed to describe any window where by you never consume generally, eight hours.

“The notion is that fasting produces a calorie deficit, which suggests that after the overall body utilizes up its carbs saved in the liver and muscular tissues, it depends on fats shops for electrical power as an alternative, which can guide to body weight decline,” suggests Sarah Coe, nourishment scientist at the British Nourishment Foundation.

“There is some evidence from clinical trials to recommend that intermittent fasting can help with weight reduction. But the proof for the 5:2 diet program specifically is constrained as opposed to other fat-decline diet programs.”

Importantly, evidence from scientific trials also indicates that sorts of intermittent fasting these as the 5:2 diet regime do not surface to be any much more productive than a lot more traditional bodyweight-loss eating plans with continual day-to-day calorie restriction.

“There is also some evidence to counsel that intermittent fasting could carry other well being rewards, together with improved blood tension and blood-glucose regulate, and decrease cholesterol amounts, which could cut down the possibility of condition. But when compared to other forms of weight-reduction diet programs, the volume of proof for any precise overall health positive aspects of intermittent fasting is constrained,” claims Coe.

Lots of of the reports are short phrase or in small figures of subjects, or have been done in animals, so additional investigate is essential to examine the possible very long-time period overall health added benefits in humans.

Downsides

The 5:2 food plan can be restrictive, and some persons may well discover it complicated to stick to in the prolonged term, especially as it can final result in starvation and reduced strength stages, disrupting get the job done or social ideas.

For the 5:2 eating plan to perform, it’s important to adhere to the calorie restrictions on “fast” days and not go overboard on the “normal” times, as this can hinder any weight decline or could even lead to weight obtain.

The 5:2 diet isn’t recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, folks with a history of an having problem, these who are susceptible to fainting, and kids and young people.

Fast 800

The generation of Dr Michael Mosley, who served to popularise the 5:2 food plan, the Rapid 800 diet regime will involve 3 stages: initial, a really minimal-calorie stage with about 800 energy a working day for the first several weeks, which could involve meal-replacement merchandise.

The 2nd phase will involve intermittent fasting, limiting calorie consumption to 800 energy a working day for two days a 7 days, and a reduced-carb, Mediterranean-type eating plan, rich in veggies, fruit, protein resources and unsaturated fat, for the rest of the 7 days.

The 3rd phase is a Mediterranean-model diet to assist sustain a balanced excess weight.

“The to start with incredibly low-calorie phase can promote moderate ketosis, wherever your overall body switches from burning sugar to burning extra fat, which can outcome in rapid weight decline and unpleasant side outcomes this kind of as head aches, deficiency of energy, and dizziness,” suggests Sarah Coe of the BNF.

The volume of bodyweight loss will rely on your starting up pounds, how much you need to have to reduce and how perfectly you adhere to the initially challenging stage.

“Evidence from trials these kinds of as Immediate and Droplet, where persons living with currently being obese or overweight have been place on an intensive pounds administration programme, which bundled having about 800 calories a working day, supports some of the overall health and bodyweight-decline benefits claimed by the Quick 800 diet plan,” says Coe. There are at this time no published trials investigating the Quick 800 diet program exclusively.

Downsides

Extremely very low-calorie eating plans are 1 of the most limited forms of dieting, and these diet plans are usually only advised for men and women who have to have to shed pounds rapidly simply because of being overweight-connected complications or medical procedures, and dieting below health care supervision.

Up to 12 weeks of a really minimal-calorie food plan may perhaps not be secure for the general population. Very very low-calorie weight loss plans are notably not acceptable for young children and adolescents, ladies who are expecting or breastfeeding, and people who have had an eating ailment.

Small GI

Posted on February 22, 2023
21 Best Cinco de Mayo desserts, from polvorones to churros

Starting to plan your Cinco de Mayo menu? Chances are you’ll start with the savory dishes, but that doesn’t mean dessert needs to take a backseat. With these Latin American-inspired desserts, you can stay on theme for your Cinco celebrations while providing your guests with something sweet to snack on after the main course.

Cinco de Mayo, often mistakenly referred to as Mexican Independence Day, is actually a celebration of Mexico’s success in the 1862 Battle of Puebla. Although it’s celebrated in some parts of Mexico, Mexican-Americans in the United States are largely responsible for popularizing the holiday. Celebrating Cinco is about more than the tacos and booze — it’s a great way to learn more about Mexican-American culture … and eat some delicious desserts in the process.

These desserts capture the flavors and feel of some of Mexico’s and Latin America’s sweetest treats in sometimes classic, sometimes unexpected ways. We’ve rounded up some of our all-time favorite cinnamon-sprinkled and caramel-covered desserts that will pair beautifully with your Cinco spread. From salty, refreshing ice pops that are reminiscent of your favorite Mexican cocktail to richly sweet, caramel-covered cakes, we’ve got you covered when it comes to all of your sweetest Cinco de Mayo dishes.

Nathan Congleton / TODAY

Tres leche is a dessert that can be found all over Latin America, but it gets a unique twist in this French toast recipe. The guava purée adds a touch of acidity that balances out the sweetness of the vanilla sauce.

Annabelle Breakey / Getty Images

Victoria Pearson / Nathan Turner’s I Love California: Live, Eat, and Entertain the West Coast Way

Flan, which made its way to Mexico via the Spanish, generally has a distinctly vanilla flavor to it, but this fall-inspired version of the dessert features pumpkin pie mix. Give it a try for Cinco de Mayo, and make a mental note to give it a go again during the fall.

TODAY

Mexican wedding cookies, or polvorones, have a delightfully soft and crumbly texture that makes it all too easy to eat several in a sitting. The fact that they’re coated with a dusting of powdered sugar can make them messy to prepare and eat, but the chaotic kitchen is definitely worth the slightly sweet, nutty flavor.

Rice pudding is an essential Latin American dessert, and we love this version that features fresh cinnamon, citrus peel and star anise. The flavor combo is subtle but complex and perfectly complements the rich, creamy texture of the rice.

Samantha Okazaki / TODAY

You may assume that churros are too time-consuming to make at home, but think again. This vanilla bean churro recipe only takes 20 minutes to prepare. Add the chocolate dipping sauce on the side, and you’ll find that your new favorite dessert comes together in a flash.

Petr Bednarik / Eli’s Chicago

Flan gets a salty-sweet upgrade with this flan cheesecake recipe. Toasted almonds and flaky sea salt add an interesting textural element to this otherwise ultra-creamy dessert. The best part? The toasted almond crust means this recipe is completely gluten-free.

Samantha Okazaki / TODAY

Guacamole shouldn’t be sidelined to the realm of savory starters, which is why this guacamole dulce, or sweet guacamole, recipe is going to be such a hit at your Cinco de Mayo celebrations. Mint, passionfruit, jicama, coconut and pomegranate transform avocados into a healthy, creamy dessert.

Victoria Pearson / Nathan Turner’s I Love California: Live, Eat, and Entertain the West Coast Way

Chocolate cake is easy to love in all its forms, but it may just be at its best when it’s enhanced with warm spices. Cinnamon adds a layer of complexity to this recipe, and the cayenne pepper provides a touch of heat that helps the other flavors shine. Add some creamy mascarpone, and you’ll want to enjoy this Cinco de Mayo dessert all year long.

Courtesy Alejandra Tapia

Having trouble deciding between crunchy, spiced churros and creamy, decadent cheesecake? You can have the best of both worlds with this ultra-simple dessert recipe that requires just a few pantry staples. It’s hard not to love a caramel-covered cream cheese filling.

Nathan Congleton / TODAY

Empanadas are the perfect handheld Cinco de Mayo snack, especially when they’re filled with a delicious, gooey apple pie filling. Since these apple pie empanadas are bite-sized, they’re ideal for passing around after a big meal — but don’t be surprised when everyone asks for seconds.

Nathan Congleton / TODAY

Standard churros get a makeover with this campfire-inspired dessert dish that forgoes the graham crackers in favor of cinnamon-sprinkled churros. You can always use store-bought marshmallows if you’re crunched for time, but making them from scratch will yield even more delicious results.

Samantha Okazaki / TODAY

This sweet take on the popular Mexican cocktail offers the same saltiness and acidity you love in a good margarita, and the pretzel crust provides a perfectly crunchy bite. Make sure you use fresh lime juice for this recipe — it makes a big difference in the final product.

Joy Bauer

Cinnamon is a common ingredient in Mexican desserts, so these cinnamon-sugar doughnut holes can be a fun addition to a sweet Cinco spread. Since they’re made with boxed cake mix and require only five ingredients, they come together surprisingly quickly for a bite-sized dose of sugary sweetness.

TODAY

This apple pie recipe calls for a mix of different apples for a more interesting, nuanced flavor, and the lusciously sweet Mexican-inspired dulce de leche adds a richness to the already-buttery crust. Can’t find dulce de leche at the store? It’ll only take you a few minutes to make it from scratch using just one can of condensed milk.

Jocelyn Delk Adams

Cinnamon rolls can be tricky to make, especially if you’re not an experienced baker. That’s why this cinnamon roll pound cake is such a great way to enjoy the treat for Cinco de Mayo. It has the density and richness of a classic pound cake with the flavor and streusel-like texture of traditional cinnamon rolls.

Nathan Congleton / TODAY

Caramel, a beloved ingredient in Latin American desserts, is the star of the show in this pie. Keep an eye on the caramel as it cooks to prevent it from burning, and you’ll have a sticky, sweet dessert that’s ideal for your Cinco de Mayo celebrations.

Grace Parisi / TODAY

Can’t decide on a single dessert to make for your Cinco celebrations? Whip up a batch of this vanilla bean-sea salt caramel sauce for a sweet-and-salty addition to all kinds of treats. It’ll add richness and depth to ice cream, baked goods and more.

Nathan Congleton / TODAY

It’s not uncommon to see caramel in Mexican desserts, which makes Cinco de Mayo the perfect excuse for making this impressive caramel cake. From caramel buttercream to the firm caramel coating that gives this cake some texture, you won’t be missing out on any bit of this iconic sweet, sticky ingredient.

Nathan Congleton / TODAY

Key lime pie, with its creaminess and well-balanced acidity, is a favorite during the warmer months of the year. If you don’t want to contend with pie crust, try these coconut-key lime pie pops. The condensed milk gives these pops a touch of sweetness that complements the slight bitterness of the lime zest. Crushed graham crackers break up the pops’ creamy texture.

Courtesy Ben Fink

Nachos are a quintessential Cinco de Mayo favorite, but they shouldn’t be relegated to the appetizer only. With this banana split-inspired recipe, you can enjoy sweet nachos topped with fruit, chocolate and plenty of whipped cream. Roasted almonds provide an earthiness and crunch that keeps this dessert from being too one-note.

Nathan Congleton / TODAY

Your favorite Cinco de Mayo cocktail is taken to new heights with this refreshing dessert recipe that features ripe, juicy mangoes and tangy lime. Add some tequila for a boozy bite, or keep it alcohol-free for a treat you can enjoy the morning after your Cinco de Mayo celebrations.

Posted on February 22, 2023
Around the world in pancakes: 10 international recipes to mix up your pancake day!

Whether you have your pancakes with chocolate spread, honey, or the classic lemon and sugar, I think we can all agree that Pancake Day is one of the best celebrations of the year. If you want to continue happily tucking into your classic British pancakes, then go ahead, nobody will blame you, but how about, this year, you do something a bit different and bring some international culture into proceedings.

1)French Crêpes

Let’s begin with the well-known French crêpe. Now I personally don’t think you’ve done France right if you haven’t tried a Nutella crêpe which, in my experience, is a life-changing favour sensation that will ruin British pancakes for you forever. These wafer-thin, golden-brown beauties can be enjoyed hot or cold and be filled with anything your heart desires. If you want to elevate your pancake game, French crêpes are a surefire way to do so.

2)Chinese Congyoubing

Going a bit further afield, these spring onion favoured Chinese pancakes make the perfect appetiser. They have bags of flavour and a gorgeous flaky texture, making them incredibly moreish. The recipe is complex and requires a reasonable amount of technical skill compared to generic British pancakes, but go on, give it a go; you might discover a new, fairly niche skill you never knew you had.

3)Australian Pikelets

The unusually named pikelets are a fascinating creation. Essentially these are mini pancakes that are small and thick with a similar texture to American pancakes, filled with custard or cream. These little delights are a staple for children growing up in Australia and are usually enjoyed as a snack or served for afternoon tea. Top with whipped cream for a perfect mid-afternoon indulgence.

4)Danish Aebleskiver

I don’t know about you, but in terms of sweet treats, I know the Danes for their delicious pastries, so I’m certainly intrigued by their pancake alternative, which looks more like a small, custard-filled doughnut to me. Literally translated as “apple slices” (although most modern recipes don’t seem to include apples), these Aebleskiver are cooked at a very high heat in special pans with circular hollows. They have a light and fluffy texture, almost like a cross between a pancake and a Yorkshire pudding and are enjoyed sprinkled with sugar and served with jam for dipping- my mouth is watering at the thought.

5)American Pancakes

If you have never tried an American pancake, well, sit down, my friend; you’re in for a treat. These fluffy, thick delights are more cake-like in texture and often eaten for breakfast with butter and maple syrup. If you, like me, find that one or two crêpe-style pancakes simply aren’t enough to satisfy your Shrove Tuesday cravings, then perhaps a stack of these more filling sweet treats is the way to go. Give them a go and experiment with the toppings- for me, fruit and yoghurt are perfect for a weekend breakfast treat.

6)Indian Dosa

Dosa, also known as dosai, dosey or dosha, is a thin, crisp pancake from South India made from a fermented batter of ground black lentils and rice. The fermentation process gives it a slightly tangy, savoury taste that pairs nicely with various curries. These pancakes take a bit of effort but are a perfect side or main dish if stuffed with Aloo masala or any other filling your heart desires.

7)Columbian/ Venezuelan Arepa

I wouldn’t be surprised to hear that you had heard of arepas before; these thick savoury pancakes are becoming increasingly popular at British street food markets, including London’s Maltby Street and Camden Lock. Arepas are made with ground maize and have a mild corn flavour, making them the ideal vehicle for flavourful fillings, often including things like black beans, chicken, avocado and plantain. In Columbia, these tasty additions are used as a topping to their crunchy arepas, whereas in Venezuela, arepas are split open and stuffed with these fillings to create a more sandwich-like snack.

8)Somalian Anjero

Anjero is a staple of Somalian cuisine, used for both sweeter breakfast dishes and savoury main meals. This fermented pancake has a bread-like texture and is traditionally made of only three ingredients: maize, flour, and water. This simple pancake can also be seen in Ethiopia with the injera, which, although made using the same ingredients, has its own character and is much bigger and more sour than the injera. This difference in taste can be attributed to the length of fermentation, which is overnight for the anjero and a couple of days for the injera. Amusingly, Somalians seem to have a British approach to their tea drinking as most people eat an average of three anjeros with a cup of tea, something I can relate to as I can often be found scoffing half a packet of digestives with my morning cuppa.

9)Greek Tiganites

If you want to add an extra splash of history to your pancake day, I recommend trying Greek Tiganites, supposedly the first documented pancake in the world, dating back to the sixth century B.C. If you want to be traditional, top these light and fluffy pancakes with chopped walnuts, but feel free to experiment with sweet and savoury additions. Apparently, Greek people tend to go for familiar toppings like chocolate spread, or they push the boat out and use what we would imagine as typically more Greek flavours like feta and honey, which I could really get behind.

10)Italian Farinata

To finish our culinary journey, we will end in Italy with the farinata, a thin, unleavened pancake made from chickpea flour and cooked in a wood-fired oven. The farinata is made with just three ingredients and is known for its crispy outside and creamy interior. This simple snack is sold in bakeries all over Italy and is given flavour with the addition of rosemary and sea salt. Although this recipe originated in Italy, it can now be found elsewhere in countries along the Mediterranean, with slightly different herbs and spices giving it local character.

Featured Image: Ash on Pexels with License.

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