Author: Terry McDaniel

What motivates me? 1. Fun. 2. Learning. 3. Blessing and prospering people before profit. 4. Being the hero.

Cinco de Mayo- Homemade Tortillas

Tortillas are a staple of Mexican cuisine, and nothing beats the taste of fresh, homemade tortillas. Whether you’re making tacos, burritos, or just serving them with your favorite dish, homemade tortillas are a delicious addition to any meal.

The process of making tortillas is simple and straightforward. It starts with masa harina, a type of corn flour that is made from dried corn kernels that have been soaked in limewater. The masa harina is mixed with water and sometimes salt to form a dough, which is then rolled out and cooked on a hot griddle.

One of the benefits of making tortillas at home is that you have complete control over the ingredients. You can choose to use organic or non-GMO masa harina, or add in other ingredients like herbs or spices for extra flavor. You can also adjust the size of the tortillas to suit your needs – make them small for tacos, or larger for burritos.

Another advantage of making tortillas at home is that they are fresher and healthier than store-bought tortillas. Many commercial tortillas contain preservatives and additives to extend their shelf life, whereas homemade tortillas are made with simple, natural ingredients.

In addition to their delicious taste, homemade tortillas are also a fun and satisfying kitchen project. Rolling out the dough and cooking each tortilla on the griddle is a hands-on process that can be enjoyed with friends or family.

If you’ve never made tortillas at home before, give it a try. You may be surprised at how easy and rewarding the process can be, and how much better homemade tortillas taste compared to their store-bought counterparts.

Easy Homemade Flour Tortillas.

Breakfast for dinner: Why breaking the rules is so much fun!

Who says breakfast is just for mornings? As kids, we were always told that breakfast was the most important meal of the day, but what about breakfast for dinner? There’s something so satisfying and rebellious about breaking the rules and having pancakes, bacon, and eggs for dinner.

Here are a few reasons why having breakfast for dinner is so much fun:

It’s a break from routine: Let’s face it, eating the same thing day after day can get boring. Having breakfast for dinner is a fun way to break up the routine and try something new.

It’s comforting: Breakfast foods are often associated with cozy, comforting feelings. There’s something about a stack of fluffy pancakes or a warm bowl of oatmeal that just feels like a hug in a bowl.

It’s quick and easy: Breakfast foods are often quick and easy to make, which makes them perfect for a busy weeknight. Plus, who doesn’t love breakfast for dinner in their pajamas?

It’s versatile: Breakfast foods can be customized to your taste, whether you prefer savory or sweet. From waffles to eggs benedict, the possibilities are endless.

So, the next time you’re feeling adventurous or just need a break from the usual dinner routine, consider having breakfast for dinner.

A recipe to try:

spinach and cheese strata

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5 Ways Farmers Can Celebrate Earth Day

Happy Earth Day! Farmers have a special relationship with the Earth. We rely on its soil, water, and sun to grow the crops that feed the world. That’s why it’s so important for us to take care of the planet we call home. Here are a few ways that farmers can celebrate Earth Day.

Practice Sustainable Agriculture: Sustainable agriculture is all about balancing the needs of the environment with the needs of the farmer. By using techniques like crop rotation, cover cropping, and integrated pest management, farmers can reduce their impact on the environment while still producing high-quality crops.

Reduce Energy Use: Farming can be a very energy-intensive industry, but there are ways to reduce your energy use and lower your carbon footprint. For example, you can switch to energy-efficient equipment, and install solar panels.

Conserve Water: Water is one of our most precious resources, and farmers need it to grow their crops. That’s why it’s important to conserve water wherever possible. This can be done through techniques like drip irrigation, using drought-resistant crops, and capturing rainwater.

Protect Wildlife: As farmers, we share our land with a variety of wildlife. By creating habitats and protecting endangered species, we can help preserve the natural balance of our ecosystems.

Support Local Food Systems: When you buy locally grown food, you’re supporting farmers in your community and reducing the environmental impact of long-distance food transportation. By supporting local food systems, we can create a more sustainable and resilient food system for everyone.

On this Earth Day, let’s all take a moment to appreciate the beauty and importance of our planet.

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The Nutritious and Versatile World of Root Vegetables

Why did the potato cross the road? To get to the root cellar on the other side!

Root vegetables are a versatile and nutritious staple crop that has been cultivated for centuries. They are an essential ingredient in many dishes and can be used in a variety of ways, from roasted, steamed, or mashed, to soups and stews.

Root vegetables are an excellent source of nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They are particularly rich in potassium, vitamin C, and folate, all of which are essential for maintaining good health. Additionally, root vegetables are low in calories, making them an excellent food for weight management.

One of the most popular root vegetables is the potato, which is a staple crop in many countries worldwide. Potatoes are easy to grow, store well, and can be used in a variety of dishes, making them an essential crop for farmers. They are also rich in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, making them an excellent addition to any diet.

Carrots are another popular root vegetable that is rich in beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is essential for healthy skin and eyesight, making carrots a healthy addition to any diet. Additionally, carrots are easy to grow and can be stored for long periods, making them an essential crop for any farmer.

Turnips, beets, and radishes are other examples of root vegetables that are rich in nutrients and easy to grow. Turnips are a good source of vitamin C and fiber, while beets are rich in folate, iron, and potassium. Radishes are high in vitamin C and antioxidants, making them an excellent addition to any diet.

In addition to being nutritious, root vegetables are also an excellent crop for farmers because they are easy to grow and store well. They can be grown in a variety of soils, and many varieties are resistant to pests and diseases. Additionally, root vegetables can be stored for long periods, making them an excellent crop for farmers who want to sell their produce throughout the year.

A yummy and fun root vegetable recipe:

The Big Holiday Hummus Board with Roasted Root Veggie Chips.

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Growing Green in the City: Urban Farming

As a city-dweller, you might think that farming is something that only happens in rural areas. But with the rise of urban farming, it’s now possible to grow your own fresh produce in the middle of the city. Urban farming is a practice that involves cultivating crops, vegetables, and fruits in urban areas such as cities and towns. And the best part? It’s not just practical, it’s also a lot of fun. Here are three fun things you can do with urban farming:

Host a Community Garden Party
One of the best things about urban farming is that it brings people together. Whether it’s through a community garden or just growing your own herbs and veggies on your balcony, it’s a great way to connect with other like-minded people. Why not host a community garden party where everyone can come together? You can grill up some fresh veggies, swap tips, and tricks, and even have a mini farmers’ market where everyone can trade produce.

Create a Rooftop Garden
If you live in an apartment building, you might think that urban farming isn’t possible for you. But with a little bit of creativity, it’s possible to create a rooftop garden that will be the envy of all your neighbors. Rooftop gardens are not only beautiful, but they can also help to reduce the heat island effect in cities, which is when the urban area is significantly warmer than the surrounding rural areas. Plus, you’ll have a perfect spot for rooftop picnics and outdoor gatherings.

Start an Indoor Hydroponic Garden
If you don’t have access to outdoor space, don’t worry – you can still get your urban farming fix with an indoor hydroponic garden. Hydroponics is a method of growing plants without soil, using a nutrient-rich water solution instead. It’s perfect for growing herbs and small veggies like cherry tomatoes or lettuce, and it’s also a great way to add some greenery to your home. Plus, you can experiment with different lighting and temperature settings to optimize your growing conditions.

Using Sunflowers as Natural Pest Control

Plant companionship. The concept of certain plants thriving in the company of others is a time-honored tradition that has been passed down through generations. In my experience, one of the most effective ways to utilize plant companionship is by using Sunflowers.

Sunflowers are not only beautiful to look at, but they also serve a very important purpose in the garden. They can help to draw aphids away from other plants. Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of plants and can cause significant damage to crops. By planting Sunflowers around the perimeter of your garden or near your other plants, you can create a barrier that aphids will be attracted to. Once they are on the Sunflowers, they are less likely to move on to other plants.

Another benefit of planting Sunflowers is that they attract ants. Ants are known for moving their colonies onto Sunflowers. The Sunflowers are tough enough that they suffer no damage, and the ants provide a form of protection from other insects that may harm your plants.

Sunflowers are also a great choice because they are easy to grow and maintain. They are known for their hardiness and adaptability and can grow in a wide range of soil types and conditions. They are also very easy to care for, requiring only regular watering and occasional fertilization.

If you are looking for a natural way to protect your garden from aphids and other harmful insects, consider planting Sunflowers. They are not only beautiful to look at, but they also serve an important purpose in your garden ecosystem. By using Sunflowers as a way to draw aphids away from your other plants, you can create a natural barrier that will help to keep your crops healthy and thriving.

Grilled Romaine: A Delicious and Unique Twist on Your Salad Game

Grilled romaine is a simple and delicious way to elevate your salad game. It’s a perfect dish for a summer barbecue or a weeknight dinner. Grilling romaine gives it a smoky flavor and a crispy texture that pairs well with a variety of dressings and toppings.

To make grilled romaine, start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Rinse and dry a head of romaine lettuce, and then cut it in half lengthwise. Brush the cut side of each half with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.

Place the romaine halves cut side down on the grill, and cook for about 2-3 minutes until you see grill marks. Flip the romaine over and cook for another minute on the other side.

Once the romaine is grilled to your liking, remove it from the grill and let it cool for a minute. You can serve the grilled romaine halves as they are, or chop them into smaller pieces and add your favorite toppings and dressings.

Grilled romaine pairs well with a variety of dressings, such as balsamic vinaigrette, Caesar dressing, or even a simple olive oil and lemon juice dressing. You can also add toppings like croutons, bacon bits, shaved parmesan cheese, or even grilled chicken or shrimp.

Not only is grilled romaine a delicious and unique way to enjoy your salad, it’s also a healthy option. Romaine lettuce is low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Grilling the romaine adds a smoky flavor without adding any additional fat or calories.

Grilled romaine is a tasty and healthy way to switch up your salad routine. It’s easy to make and customizable to your liking, making it a versatile dish for any occasion. So, next time you’re firing up the grill, give grilled romaine a try!

https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1017536-grilled-romaine

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Acai Bowls: The Ultimate Summer Treat for a Refreshing Boost

What are acai bowls?
Acai bowls are a type of smoothie bowl made with frozen acai berries, which are native to Brazil and are known for their high antioxidant content. The acai berries are blended with other ingredients such as bananas, berries, and almond milk to create a thick, creamy consistency, which is then topped with fresh fruit, granola, and other toppings.

What are the health benefits of acai bowls?
Acai berries are a good source of antioxidants, which help protect the body against damage from free radicals. They also contain fiber, healthy fats, and a range of vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious addition to any diet. Acai bowls are often topped with other healthy ingredients such as fresh fruit, nuts, and seeds, which can provide additional nutrients and fiber.

How to make an acai bowl?
To make an acai bowl, you will need frozen acai puree, which can be found in many health food stores and online. You will also need other ingredients such as frozen bananas, berries, almond milk, and honey. Here is a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients:

2 packs of frozen acai puree
1 frozen banana
1/2 cup of frozen berries
1/2 cup of milk
1 tablespoon of honey
Toppings:

Sliced fresh fruit (such as strawberries, bananas, and blueberries)
Granola
Chia seeds
Coconut flakes
Almond butter/peanut butter/sunflower butter

Instructions:

Break up the frozen acai puree and place it in a blender or food processor.
Add the frozen banana, berries, almond milk, and honey to the blender.
Blend until smooth and creamy, adding more almond milk as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
Pour the acai mixture into a bowl.
Add your desired toppings, such as sliced fruit, granola, chia seeds, coconut flakes, chocolate chips, and almond butter. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Acai bowls are a delicious and nutritious way to start your day or enjoy as a refreshing snack. They are easy to make at home and can be customized with a variety of toppings to suit your taste preferences. Give them a try and see why they have become such a popular food trend!

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Cultivate this flavorful herb indoors

Growing garlic in water is a fun and easy way to bring the flavors of this beloved herb indoors. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown garlic all year round.

Choose your garlic: Begin by selecting a healthy, plump garlic bulb with several cloves. Avoid any bulbs that are soft or have moldy spots.

Prepare the cloves: Gently separate the cloves from the bulb, being careful not to damage them. Leave the papery skin on each clove intact.

Soak the cloves: Place the garlic cloves in a glass or jar and add enough water to cover the bottom inch of the cloves. Be sure not to submerge the entire clove in water.

Place the jar in a sunny location: Put the jar in a sunny location, such as a windowsill, and make sure the cloves receive plenty of natural light. Be sure to change the water every 2-3 days.

Wait for roots to grow: In about a week, you should see roots begin to grow from the bottom of each clove. These roots will eventually become the foundation of your garlic plant.

Transplant to soil: Once the roots are several inches long, it’s time to transplant your garlic cloves to soil. Fill a small pot with well-draining soil and create a small hole in the center. Carefully place each clove into the hole, making sure the roots are pointing downwards. Cover the clove with soil and water thoroughly.

Care for your garlic plant: Place the pot in a sunny location and water it regularly, being careful not to overwater. In a few weeks, you should see green shoots emerging from the soil. Continue to care for your garlic plant by watering it regularly and providing it with plenty of sunlight.

Harvest your garlic: After several months, your garlic plant should be ready for harvest. Look for brown, withered leaves on the plant as a sign that it’s time to harvest. Carefully dig up the garlic bulb, brush off any excess soil, and store it in a cool, dry place.

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