Is it always necessary to soak broccoli?
Is this cookbook good for people with food allergies?
I have gluten sensitivities. Can I use the recipes in this cookbook?
What is raw honey? Should honey be filtered or processed in any way?
Is this a good book for vegetarians?
Is it always necessary to soak broccoli?
The purpose of soaking broccoli is to remove unwanted pests. Organic broccoli and broccoli that is fresh from the farm is more likely to need soaking.
Is this cookbook good for people with food allergies?
Simple Choices for Healthier Eating is not a food allergy cookbook. However, because of food sensitivities and allergies in our own families, we are very aware of the need to use a variety of ingredients.
- Most recipes that call for “milk” were tested with soy, almond, and rice milks as well as cow’s milk (these are listed in each recipe).
- Many of the recipes that call for eggs can be made with an egg substitute of cooking oil, water and baking powder (see p. 206 of Simple Choices for Healthier Eating).
- While nuts are incorporated into several recipes, they are usually optional and easily omitted.
I have gluten sensitivities. Can I use the recipes in this cookbook?
Over 160 of the 200 recipes in Simple Choices for Healthier Eating are gluten-free or have a gluten-free option. These recipes are indicated with a symbol at the bottom of each page. Simple Choices for Healthier Eating is a great option for people cooking for others with gluten sensitivities (such as Celiac disease) as safe recipes are clearly indicated.
What is raw honey? Should honey be filtered or processed in any way?
People differ on their definitions of raw honey as well as what “processed honey” implies. Generally, you want honey that has been processed as little as possible so that it retains the highest concentration of nutrients. The best rule of thumb is to buy local honey and, if possible, to talk to the bee keepers (e.g., at a Farmer’s Market) to learn their methods for extracting, processing and filtering the honey. It is also interesting to ask where their hives are located and what kinds of pollen are included. A mixture, especially with some wild flowers, makes the tastiest honey.
I don’t have any leeks. What else can I use in recipes like the Barley Bake (p. 180 of Simple choices for Healthier Eating)?
While leeks have their own distinct flavor, you can achieve a similar effect in casseroles by using fresh garlic and onions. (For the Barley Casserole, try mincing 2 large cloves of garlic and adding ½ cup additional onions in place of the leeks).
Is this a good book for vegetarians?
Over 140 of the 200 recipes in Simple Choices for Healthier Eating are vegetarian or have a vegetarian option/serving suggestion.
