<![CDATA[Living Naturally - Blog]]>Mon, 06 May 2024 02:18:37 -0700Weebly<![CDATA[10 Spices You Need In Your Pantry]]>Mon, 29 Apr 2024 17:11:51 GMThttp://trustednaturalhomeproducts.com/blog/10-spices-you-need-in-your-pantrySpice up your cooking with these essential spices that every home chef should have in their pantry! From adding depth of flavor to enhancing the aroma of your dishes, spices play a crucial role in making your meals truly spectacular. 
Here are 10 must-have spices that will take your cooking to the next level:
  1. Salt: A fundamental ingredient that enhances the flavor of any dish.
  2. Black Pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth to your recipes.
  3. Cumin: Earthy and aromatic, perfect for adding a warm flavor to Middle Eastern and Mexican dishes.
  4. Paprika: Adds a rich, smoky flavor and vibrant color to your meals.
  5. Cinnamon: Ideal for sweet and savory dishes, it brings warmth and depth to your cooking.
  6. Oregano: A versatile herb that works well in pasta sauces, salads, and marinades.
  7. Garlic Powder: Adds a savory depth of flavor without the hassle of fresh garlic.
  8. Ginger: Adds a spicy kick to curries, stir-fries, and baked goods.
  9. Chili Powder: Perfect for adding heat and flavor to Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes.
  10. Turmeric: Known for its vibrant color and earthy flavor, turmeric is a must-have for curries and soups

Whether you're whipping up a comforting stew, a zesty marinade, or a fragrant curry, having these spices on hand will ensure that your culinary creations are always bursting with flavor. So stock up your pantry with these versatile spices and get ready to elevate your dishes with a dash of deliciousness! With these essential spices in your pantry, you'll be ready to elevate your cooking and create delicious meals with ease.   
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<![CDATA[Curry Powder]]>Thu, 25 Apr 2024 00:24:55 GMThttp://trustednaturalhomeproducts.com/blog/curry-powder
Curry is a versatile spice blend that adds depth and flavor to a variety of dishes. From Indian to Thai cuisine, curry is a popular choice for adding a kick of spice and warmth to your cooking. When using curry in your dishes, it's important to consider the different types available, such as yellow curry, red curry, and green curry, each with its own unique flavor profile.
One popular way to use curry is in curries, stews, and soups, where it can be the star of the dish or used as a supporting flavor. You can also use curry as a rub for meats, in marinades, or even sprinkle it on roasted vegetables for a tasty twist. Experiment with different combinations and levels of spiciness to find the perfect curry flavor that suits your preferences. Whether you're a seasoned curry enthusiast or new to using this spice blend, there are endless possibilities for incorporating curry into your cooking repertoire.
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Curry can be used in:
  1. Eggs
  2. Deviled eggs
  3. Fish
  4. Shrimp
  5. Poultry 
  6. Chicken
  7. Meat
  8. Vegetables
  9. Rice
  10. Tomatoes
  11. Cottage Cheese
  12. Cream Cheese
  13. French Dressing
  14. Mayonnaise
  15. White Sauce
  16. Clam & Fish Chowders
  17. Tomato Soup
  18. Cream of Mushroom Soups
  19. Salted Nuts
  20. Sweet Pickles



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<![CDATA[The Amazing Benefits of Cayenne Pepper]]>Wed, 24 Apr 2024 18:17:44 GMThttp://trustednaturalhomeproducts.com/blog/the-amazing-benefits-of-cayenne-pepper
Cayenne pepper is not just a spice that adds heat to your dishes; it also comes with a wide range of health benefits. From boosting metabolism and aiding in weight loss to improving digestion and reducing inflammation, cayenne pepper is a powerhouse of nutrients.

Research has shown that cayenne pepper can help lower blood pressure, improve circulation, and even reduce the risk of ulcers. Its active compound, capsaicin, has been linked to pain relief and may even have anti-cancer properties.

Incorporating cayenne pepper into your diet is easy - sprinkle it on your favorite dishes, add it to soups and stews, or even mix it with olive oil for a spicy salad dressing. Whether you're looking to spice up your meals or boost your health, cayenne pepper is definitely worth adding to your spice rack.
18 Ways to use Cayenne Pepper:
  1. ​Deviled eggs
  2. Infused Oil: Make your own cayenne pepper-infused oil by combining cayenne pepper with olive oil and letting it sit for a few days. Use this oil to add heat to your favorite dishes.
  3. Clam and oyster stews
  4. Poached Salmon
  5. Spicy Marinade: Create a bold and flavorful marinade for meats by combining cayenne pepper with garlic, onion, and citrus juice.
  6. Seafood Sauces
  7. Barbecue sauce for meat and fish
  8. Tuna fish salad
  9. Spicy Popcorn: Sprinkle cayenne pepper over freshly popped popcorn for a spicy and satisfying snack.
  10. Cottage and cream cheeses
  11. Cooked green vegetables
  12. Welsh rabbit
  13. Cheese souffles
  14. Pork chops
  15. Veal stew
  16. Ham croquettes
  17. Spicy Chocolate: Try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to your homemade chocolate recipes for a spicy twist on a classic treat.
  18. Spicy Drinks: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your morning smoothie or cocktail for an unexpected kick.    
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<![CDATA[Cardamom]]>Tue, 16 Apr 2024 18:53:29 GMThttp://trustednaturalhomeproducts.com/blog/cardamomPicture

Cardamom is a versatile spice that adds a unique flavor to both savory and sweet dishes. In my latest blog post, I delve into the history and culinary uses of this exotic spice, sharing delicious recipes and tips on how to incorporate cardamom into your cooking. Discover how cardamom can elevate your favorite desserts, such as cakes, cookies, and ice cream, with its warm and slightly citrusy aroma. I also explore the health benefits of cardamom, from aiding digestion to boosting metabolism. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a curious foodie looking to expand your spice cabinet, this blog post is sure to inspire you to experiment with the enchanting flavors of cardamom.

One popular use for cardamom is in baked goods, such as cakes, cookies, and bread. The warm, slightly citrusy flavor of cardamom pairs well with sweet treats and can add depth to your desserts.

In addition to baking, cardamom is also commonly used in savory dishes. Try adding it to curries, stews, or marinades for a fragrant and complex flavor profile. You can also use cardamom to spice up your morning routine by adding a pinch to your coffee or tea for a flavorful twist.  Try it in curries, tagines, rice dishes, pastries, cakes, cookies, stewed fruits and more!



​If you're looking to spice up your culinary creations, cardamom is the perfect ingredient to add some delicious flavor and aroma. Here are 10 ways to incorporate cardamom into your dishes:
  1. Infuse cardamom pods in warm milk for a fragrant chai latte.
  2. Grind cardamom seeds and add to your morning oatmeal for a tasty twist.
  3. Mix cardamom powder into your pancake or waffle batter for a sweet and spicy kick.
  4. Blend cardamom with yogurt and honey for a flavorful marinade for chicken or lamb.
  5. Sprinkle ground cardamom on top of your favorite fruit salad for an exotic touch.
  6. Add cardamom pods to your rice cooker when making basmati rice for a fragrant side dish.
  7. Mix cardamom powder into your homemade granola for a unique breakfast treat.
  8. Stir cardamom into melted chocolate for a delectable dessert topping.
  9. Combine cardamom with cinnamon and nutmeg for a warm and comforting spice mix.
  10. Use ground cardamom in baked goods like cookies, cakes, and muffins for a delightful flavor enhancement.
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<![CDATA[Flipping Through A Watkins Cookbook From 1930]]>Wed, 10 Apr 2024 04:02:38 GMThttp://trustednaturalhomeproducts.com/blog/flipping-through-a-watkins-cookbook-from-1930
Grab yourself a cup of coffee or tea as we flip through a Watkins Cookbook from 1930.
Click file to view book
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<![CDATA[10 Uses For Watkins Pure Lemon Extract]]>Sun, 07 Apr 2024 19:32:11 GMThttp://trustednaturalhomeproducts.com/blog/10-uses-for-watkins-pure-lemon-extract
​When life gives you lemons, make lemon extract! This versatile ingredient can be used in a myriad of ways in the kitchen. Here are 10 creative cooking uses for pure lemon extract:
  1. Add a few drops to your favorite salad dressing for a refreshing zing.
  2. Mix with olive oil and herbs for a flavorful marinade for chicken or fish.
  3. Use in baking recipes for a burst of citrus flavor in cakes, cookies, and muffins.
  4. Stir into homemade whipped cream for a light and tangy topping for desserts.
  5. Combine with honey and drizzle over roasted vegetables for a delicious glaze.
  6. Mix with butter and herbs to create a compound butter for grilled meats.
  7. Add to homemade ice cream or sorbet for a bright and refreshing treat.
  8. Stir into cocktails or mocktails for a citrusy twist.
  9. Use in homemade vinaigrettes or sauces for a burst of lemony goodness.
  10. Infuse into sugar to make lemon-scented sugar for sprinkling on baked goods or rimming cocktail glasses.
After you open your bottle, don't forget to store it in the refrigerator for optimum freshness.
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<![CDATA[Time Saving Cooking Tips]]>Sun, 07 Apr 2024 19:03:43 GMThttp://trustednaturalhomeproducts.com/blog/time-saving-cooking-tips
​Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen every day? Well, look no further! Here are some time-saving cooking tips that will help you whip up delicious meals in no time:
  1. Plan your meals ahead of time to save time on indecisiveness.
  2. Use pre-chopped veggies or frozen vegetables to cut down on prep time.
  3. Invest in a good quality knife to make chopping easier and quicker.
  4. Cook in batches and freeze leftovers for easy meals on busy days.
  5. Opt for one-pot meals to minimize cleaning up afterward.
  6. Use a slow cooker or Instant Pot for hands-off cooking.
  7. Keep your pantry stocked with versatile ingredients for quick meal assembly.
  8. Utilize kitchen gadgets like a food processor or blender for faster food prep.
  9. Clean as you go to avoid a huge mess at the end.
  10. Embrace simple recipes with fewer ingredients for faster cooking.
    By following these time-saving cooking tips, you'll be able to enjoy delicious homemade meals without spending hours in the kitchen!
  11. The casserole was very popular in the 1970’s, but it fell out of fashion during the 80’s and 90’s. Yesterday’s busy woman’s favorite stand by meal is making a come back among today’s busy families and for good reason. This is a one pot dinner that is quick and easy to make and easy to clean up too, since there is only the one dish plus plates and silverware to wash.
  12. Now that you’ve discovered casseroles, you may also want to consider freezer cooking. With this method of cooking, you’ll spend one weekend preparing a month’s worth of dinners and then you’ll store them in the freezer. Many casseroles are perfect for freezer cooking too. At night, you’ll take out the next day’s dinner and let it thaw in the fridge. About an hour before dinner, just pop that night’s meal into the oven, maybe toss up a salad and your family will sit down to wonderful home cooked meal.
  13. Are you using your slow cooker? This is a great time saving appliance when it comes to cooking. When you get up in the morning, simply add the ingredients for your meal and let it simmer all day. When you are ready to eat, your dinner will be hot and ready to eat. The slow cooker doesn’t heat up you house like the oven does so it’s great for cooking year round! Again, there is only one pot to wash so clean up will be a breeze and if your slow cooker is large, you might have extra to freeze for another meal!
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<![CDATA[Flipping Through A Watkins Almanac from 1940]]>Sun, 07 Apr 2024 18:45:54 GMThttp://trustednaturalhomeproducts.com/blog/flipping-through-a-watkins-almanac-from-1940
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<![CDATA[Bay Leaves]]>Sun, 07 Apr 2024 16:25:40 GMThttp://trustednaturalhomeproducts.com/blog/bay-leaves
Bay leaves, a seemingly humble herb, has been a staple in kitchens around the world for centuries. But did you know that this unassuming leaf holds a wealth of health benefits and culinary uses waiting to be discovered?

In the kitchen, bay leaves are a versatile herb that can add depth and flavor to soups, stews, sauces, and marinades. They are often used to infuse dishes with a subtle aromatic quality that enhances the overall taste.

When using bay leaves in cooking, remember to remove them before serving as they can be a choking hazard. Whether you are looking to elevate your culinary creations or reap the health benefits, incorporating bay leaves into your diet is a smart and delicious choice.

Bay leaves are more than just a common ingredient in cooking - they also offer a variety of health benefits. These fragrant leaves are packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and magnesium. Bay leaves have been used for centuries in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

In this blog post, we delve into the fascinating world of bay leaf, exploring its rich history, traditional uses, and modern applications. From adding depth to soups and stews to being a powerhouse of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, the bay leaf is truly a versatile and underrated herb.

Join us on a journey to unlock the secrets of this aromatic leaf, and learn how you can incorporate it into your cooking and wellness routines. Say goodbye to overlooking the bay leaf in your spice cabinet, and embrace its potential to elevate your dishes and enrich your health.

Bay Leaves can be used in the following:
  1. Pickled Beets
  2. Beets
  3. Boiled carrots
  4. Boiled artichokes
  5. Boiled potatoes
  6. Vegetable soup
  7. Fish Chowders
  8. Lamb
  9. Beef
  10. Veal
  11. Venison
  12. Poultry
  13. Fish Stews
  14. Boiled or Steamed Shrimp and lobster
  15. Chicken Casserole
  16. Boiled Chicken
  17. Pickled meats
  18. Brine for smoked meats
  19. Pot roast
  20. Boiled pork
  21. Meat Gravies
  22. Marinades
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<![CDATA[Anise - The Licorice Flavoured Spice]]>Tue, 02 Apr 2024 13:52:03 GMThttp://trustednaturalhomeproducts.com/blog/anise-the-licorice-flavoured-spiceAnise, with its distinct licorice-like flavor, is a magical star shaped spice that has been used for centuries in cooking and traditional medicine. Not only does it add a unique taste to dishes, but it also boasts an array of health benefits.  

Watkins Organic Star Anise is the fruit of an evergreen tree originating in Southeastern China. Star Anise lends a subtly sweet licorice flavor to soups, broths, and braises. 

Rich in antioxidants, anise helps boost the immune system and fight off inflammation. It is also known for its digestive properties, aiding in digestion and relieving bloating and gas. Additionally, anise is used as a natural remedy for coughs and colds due to its expectorant properties.
Whether it's sprinkled on baked goods, brewed into a tea, or added to savory dishes, anise is a versatile spice that can enhance both the flavor and health benefits of your meals. Next time you're in the kitchen, reach for some anise and experience its magic for yourself.

Anise is great in:
  1. Coffee Cake
  2. Sweet breads
  3. Rolls
  4. Cookies
  5. Fruit Compote
  6. Stewed Apples
  7. Preserved Fruits
  8. All Fruit Pie Fillings
  9. Licorice Candies
  10. Sweet Pickles
  11. Beef Stew
  12. Veal Stew
  13. Cottage Cheese



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