As I’ve been reflecting on various aspects of life during this time of quarantine, like many of us, I’ve come across the idea of “simplifying.” Yes, I’ve considered simplifying a few hundred times before. I’ve made half-hearted attempts to declutter and “live in the moment.” In comparison, this time of reflection has been “novel” and unexpected. We are faced with such gravity in the news. Images of sickness and heartache lead us to bow our heads and clasp our hands in prayer. Prayer for our loved ones, near and far, who are fighting the battle against this virus (the name of which I shall not mention). Prayer for those of us showing our love in and from our homes in social distance and quarantine, where each day our family members wake up still feeling well is, prayerfully, held dear and celebrated.
This effort to simplify life for myself and my family will not be made in vain. We were forced off the hamster-wheel of too many and too much, and we are not getting back on. We are going to make a truthful and dedicated effort to focus our energies on all that really matters in our lives. These words will be followed-up by action. Part of that effort will be cleaning up my family’s nutrition. Our food is our fuel, and it’s time to try to get some cleaner-burning energy. The goal is better and not perfection. I’ll share some of my cleaner edible discoveries. This blog is only my mommy opinion–what has worked for me when preparing meals that feed my family (myself, a husband, four sons , including two teenagers, a hyper four-legged fur-baby, and whomever else they’ve invited).
An important part of our quarantine experience has been sharing more meals together. My husband is able to leave his remote office down the hall and join us for lunch. My family is pitching-in with ideas for cooking in our homeschool “cafeteria.” At the same time, I have been trying to stay healthy so we don’t all gain “quarantine 15” pounds. This led to my looking to use ingredients we have been having on hand for a while. The bag of chia seeds was in my refrigerator long before the quarantine. I bought them a long time ago in an effort to add more Omega-3s and fiber to our diets. I’d add a little to my big boys’ morning oatmeal or a dash in a quick smoothie.
It took about 30 seconds for me to find a delicious 3-Ingredient Chia Pudding Recipe. http://feelgoodfoodie.net Simply made with almond milk, chia seeds and your sweetener of choice–we like a little honey or just some fresh fruit. The recommended ratio is 1 tablespoon chia seeds to 1/4 cup of almond milk. Be sure to spoon-stir well enough for the seeds to soak into the milk. Try to make it clump-free. Cover and place in the fridge for a couple of hours and enjoy.
My brand of choice for Chia Seeds is Spectrum Essentials. I appreciate the insight found on the back of the bag informing its consumer that chia seeds were a dietary staple for the Aztecs and Mayans. http://spectrumorganics.org Chia seeds are a member of the mint family, and they pair well with both sweet and savory dishes. Chia seeds can be used as a substitute for eggs in baked dishes by mixing one part chia seeds to six parts water. One tablespoon of gel equals one large egg. http://foodandnutrition.org This is a good time to note, for health reasons and safety, chia seeds should always be mixed into another food, because they absorb liquid and form a gel, which can affect swallowing. http://medicalnewstoday.com *
Until we meet again, let’s continue to take care of each other the best we can. I pray God’s blessing over all of our efforts each day during these different times. Remember for each other, “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.” 1 Corinthians 6:19-20. Even while quarantined, try to eat insightfully, my friend.
*Consult your healthcare practitioner for your individual dietary needs. I am not a nutrition professional. This blog is a fun outlet for me to add creativity to cooking with a little insight. All statements are my opinion and recreationally informative.
Rose's Insightful Eating 