Spirit & Truth Daniel Fast Tips

2010~21 day Daniel Fast is completed

2010-01-30T07:12:00.000-08:00

We had a glorious worship service yesterday as our church family came to the end of our 21 day fast. We have many testimonies of answered prayer and drawing closer to the Lord. God's blessings are rich in our lives.

Shirataki Noodle is either the perfect diet food or diet fad, use your noodle to decide(By Bonnie McCarthy)--from the AOL News Page

2010-01-28T22:04:00.000-08:00

With National Fettuccine Alfredo Day (February 7) just around the corner, is it possible to find a recipe that will befit the occasion while remaining true to our New Year's resolutions ... you remember those? Something about eating healthier and losing weight?

Shirataki noodle evangelists at Miracle Noodle and House Foods believe the answer lies in the refrigerated food case at Whole Foods, health food stores, Asian markets or via online purchase. Shirataki noodles, made from either tofu and yam flour (House Foods) or the konnyaku imo plant (Miracle Noodle), cook almost instantly, are high in fiber and low in fat, calories and carbs. A dieter's dream. If you're counting "points," an entire two-serving package of tofu shirataki noodles from House Foods has zero points. Yes, you read that right.

They are also priced to sell. Whole Foods carries tofu shirataki noodles in angel hair or spaghetti shapes for a budget-friendly $1.39 per 8 oz. bag.

In Salon.com's story Meet the Miracle Noodle, Thomas Rogers writes that, although the noodles have been popular in Japan and China for years, they are fairly new to the US market (2007). Rogers notes a 2008 report in Men's Health magazine that claimed the noodles actually help prevent fat storage. Most recently, Rocco DiSpirito included shirataki noodles as one of his "must-try" foods for 2010 on "The Rachel Ray Show."

Okay, I'll bite.

Has the search finally come to an end? Can we all just sit around eating big bowls of pasta day in, day out and look like Angelina Jolie? Risking a speeding ticket in the rain, I rushed over to Whole Foods like some sort of dieting Don Quixote. The watery packets of pasta sat silently on cool, gleaming shelves, curiously unguarded. I took one, two ... four packets, and headed for home.

After getting my new best friends temporarily situated in the refrigerator, I headed for Google. I had no idea how to achieve noodle nirvana in the kitchen. Luckily, HungryGirl.com does. A virtual wealth of shirataki information, HungryGirl's online community also had a lot to say about their own noodle experiences.

Ninav wrote, "I find that you need to really soak and rinse the noodles well to get rid of the fishy odor ... if you've never tried these noodles you need to know you'll either love them or hate them."

Hmmm. Fishy odor? Raquel_Arenas answered, "I personally like them ... I wouldn't go as far as saying I love them, but for 40 cals for the whole bag -- it's nothing!" Mykanosdelight said she eats hers with a low-sugar spaghetti sauce and turkey meatballs and calls them, "the invention of the decade." DFS52 posted, "I really enjoy them and love the feeling I get from being so low cal and guilt free. I can honestly say that they are not as good as real pasta but are definitely the next best thing for sure ... I started out at 272 pounds and just hit 242 pounds ... I can say without hesitation that these lifestyle changing noodles have been a huge help for me because I use to love my pasta."

Online commenter Joellejello disagrees. "Ick, I tried these things, I really wanted to like them, I love pasta! But these were rubbery, wormy, smelly, even after I rinsed them forever, then boiled them too. I ate with my homemade spaghetti sauce, but couldn't take more than a couple mouthfuls. They're just not for me."

The Hungry Girl site offered several recipes including "Shrimptastic Fettuccine Hungry Girlfredo," "Noodled Up Soup," and "Noodlicious Zucchini Pancakes." I decided to go with a simple "Fettuccine Hungry Girlfredo" and test it out on my unsuspecting family. However, since I couldn't be sure they'd actually eat it, I hedged my bets and served the "Girlfredo" as a side to our regular baked chicken. (Full disclosure: I noticed after purchasing the noodles and getting my recipes off of the Hungry Girl Web site that Hungry Girl actually endorses the tofu shirataki noodles on the product's packaging. Just FYI.)

To give the noodles a fighting chance with the kids, I doubled the cheese sauce recipe as called for by HungryGirl. Still, it was low-cal enough to be virtuous, and I carefully obeyed the soaking, rinsing, drying off rules for the noodles. It required slightly more work than throwing regular pasta into a pot of boiling water, but if the claims were true it would be well worth the extra effort. I called my husband into the kitchen to ask if he detected a "fishy scent," since even the packaging suggests microwaving the noodles for one minute to "reduce the authentic aroma." He said it did smell a little "shrimpy" -- which wouldn't be a bad thing if one were serving shrimp alfredo. I rinsed a little more.

Since my Whole Foods didn't have the actual fettuccine noodles in stock, I made do using angel hair -- which we all love. When it was on the plate it looked like the real deal. Sprinkle on a little more Parmesan, salt & pepper and voila. Dinner is served.

I surreptitiously surveyed my crew. They were all digging in. I did the same. Hmmm. Definitely not the usual Italian pasta taste or texture. The noodles had sort of a snap to them, in the same way one might encounter bean sprouts. I began to think they might not be bad in a stir fry, in a soup, or perhaps pan fried and tossed with some veggies -- although I admit purists might frown upon the pan frying. I began to feel like someone who has heard a certain movie is amazing and fabulous so many times that actually watching the film is inevitably a disappointment.

I asked the kids. My 12-year-old loved the pasta, "can I have this in my lunch?" he asked (where did we get him?). "Great mom," said the picky 9-year old, "it's a little strange, but it's only the first night." My husband was not as enthusiastic, "I can't say that I love it," he admitted. Still, every plate was cleaned, and all the "pasta" was eaten -- no badgering required.

The verdict? I think by managing expectations, shirataki noodles might find a place on the menu. They may look like Italian pasta but it is only a dieter's mirage. Expecting them to taste the same as flour-based pasta sets the table for disappointment. I would like to try them again in a broth-based soup or whipped up as a spicy stir fry and treat them as an Asian-inspired dish. My dreams of eating something for nothing, however, are gone -- as are my hopes of slimming down without diet, exercise, and surgery.

I suggest, however, that for an outlay of $1.39 and less than 15 minutes of prep and cooking time, a taste test amongst family and friends still might result in something worthwhile. I also began to wonder if the miracle noodles might work topically on wrinkles, a shirataki mask?... hope springs eternal.

STWC Connect Parties

2010-01-27T21:47:00.000-08:00

We enjoyed a night of fellowship at our connect parties. Daniel Fast food was on the menu and it was so tasty to try other recipes from our creative people. Scott and Tim had several high powered blenders and were making fruit smoothies from a variety of fruits....you could choose your blend. Jennifer had a delicious berry cobbler made with oatmeal & stevia, Marilyn had her delicious Puerto Rican beans over whole grain rice....many other things along with veggie trays, hummus, salsas...etc... Everyone had a nice time and not only are we praying and fasting....but reports have come in of people feeling better and being healed of various ailments. God is good!!!

Psalms 19~The Message

2010-01-25T08:57:00.000-08:00

7-9 The revelation of God is whole
and pulls our lives together.

The signposts of God are clear
and point out the right road.

The life-maps of God are right,
showing the way to joy.

The directions of God are plain
and easy on the eyes.

God's reputation is twenty-four-carat gold,
with a lifetime guarantee.

The decisions of God are accurate
down to the nth degree.

10 God's Word is better than a diamond,
better than a diamond set between emeralds.
You'll like it better than strawberries in spring,
better than red, ripe strawberries.

11-14 There's more: God's Word warns us of danger
and directs us to hidden treasure.
Otherwise how will we find our way?
Or know when we play the fool?
Clean the slate, God, so we can start the day fresh!
Keep me from stupid sins,
from thinking I can take over your work;
Then I can start this day sun-washed,
scrubbed clean of the grime of sin.
These are the words in my mouth;
these are what I chew on and pray.
Accept them when I place them
on the morning altar,
O God, my Altar-Rock,
God, Priest-of-My-Altar.

Last few days of the fast-our journey has been great!

2010-01-25T08:50:00.000-08:00

Fantastic Sunday Service. We can feel the blessings of the Lord--we sense the unity of the saints in this time of prayer and fasting. By now I'm sure you are feeling wonderful and blessed. The first week is the difficult time of adjusting yourself to the changes and getting sugar and caffeine out of our systems. It is all worth it!!! Hopefully you have found time to pray at the church. We have a sign up in the foyer for the 24 hour prayer chains going each day. We are on the last few days of our prayer & fasting Journey. This Sunday we will break our fast together. All of the Church family & friends are invited to a potluck following the 10am service. Our Ladies Ministry is taking an Encounter God Retreat this weekend also...if you haven't been--Please go. You will be blessed beyond measure--so many wonderful ways are available to us to draw close to the Lord. Keep your head up and enjoy the journey.

Tacos, with mexican style ground (soy/veggie) meat

2010-01-18T13:22:00.001-08:00

Our Tacos are made with Corn Tortillas, Mexican Style ground veggie meat, soy cheese...we added homemade salsa and guacamole...

College Students~Daniel Fast Ideas for limited resources

2010-01-16T23:20:00.000-08:00

Irvine Farmers Market

2010-01-16T22:36:00.000-08:00

I went to the Irvine Farmers Marker today and loved it! What an awesome LARGE Farmers Market for fresh fruits & veggies. If you can go...it's definately worth your time. My friend checked it out and it's one of the best in SoCal~
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Irvine Farmers Market
Campus Dr. & Bridge Rd.
Irvine, CA
Open Saturday 8-noon

Isaiah 58 in Action...C&C in downtown LA

2010-01-16T22:29:00.001-08:00

Our College & Career were blessed today to be able to minister in song and to serve food at the Azusa Mission in downtown Los Angeles...at the ministry mission of Sis. Amy Wong.

Cooking With Norm

2010-01-15T19:33:00.001-08:00

Pasta e Fagioli-Chef Norman's recipe

2010-01-15T16:08:00.000-08:00

Norman's=Pasta e Fagioli

I – Can Kidney Beans

I – Can White Beans

I – Can Garbanzo Beans

1 - Can of organic tomato Paste

1 – Reg. Can of Organic Tomato sauce

1 – Can Organic Stewed or diced tomatoes

1 – Package Tofurky (This is at Trader Joes)

½ box of Wheat pasta

6 - Diced Carrots

6 - Diced stocks of Celery

Garlic salt~Oregano~Italian seasoning

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Cut the tofurky into small pieces and fry them in a pan till very well done feel free to add salt and pepper.

Drain and rinse the beans and then add everything into I think it is a 10 quart pot once everything is added top it off with water ruffle 12 cups water

"Cheeseburgers"....the kids will love it.

2010-01-15T15:45:00.000-08:00

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My kids loved the cheeseburgers & fries today. *Food For Life(sprouted grain)English Muffins
*Veggie Beef Patties (meatless)
*Veggie American Cheese(like)
*Mustard & Organic Ketchup(read ingredients)
*Add any veggie toppings you like...ie lettuce, tomato, onions...etc..
*** I baked the french fries in the oven. Then let them put seasoning on top if they wanted.

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**My daughter added avocado to her "Cheeseburger"....

Keep your mind on good things during the fast.

2010-01-15T10:45:00.000-08:00

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Philippians 4:8

Two Questions to Ask Yourself

2010-01-12T22:44:00.000-08:00

HOW DO I KNOW WHAT TO EAT?

Two questions you can use as a general rule of thumb: Did it grow from a seed? Has man polluted it? If you can answer these questions with any degree of certainty then you can be reasonably assured that your food choices are in line with The Daniel Fast.

Italian Penne Pasta

2010-01-11T15:47:00.001-08:00

I used Whole Grain Pasta & Organic Italian Pasta Sauce with Mushrooms~~in a separate pan I sauteed (in a small amount of olive oil) mushrooms, sun dried tomatoes and sliced calamata olives & Italian seasoning--I put this medley on top of the Pasta and sprinkled a bit of Soy Imitation Mozzarella Cheese--use whatever style of pasta you like--my family likes penne style.

Mini-Pizza's for Kids

2010-01-11T15:33:00.000-08:00

Tonight I experimented with making mini pizza's. The kids really liked it. I used Food For Life-sprouted english muffins(& one whole wheat flat bread to see which worked)...**Organic pizza sauce (sprinkled a little Italian seasoning), **Yves meatless pepperoni's, and **Soy immitation Mozerella Cheese--& on half of them I put mushrooms. ~You can put any veggies you like on them.~ I tried to make them appealing to my children and then we can pack the extra's as lunch tomorrow.~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~**I bought all of my supplies at Albertsons Grocery Store...they have a large selection of Organic Products & Vegan imitation meats & cheeses.~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Remember to READ THE LABELS: Natural sugars in fruits & natural products...OK...just be sure it's not added in the ingredients...

2010-01-10T23:24:00.000-08:00

READ THE LABELS: When you wonder whether a prepared food is suitable for the Daniel Fast, be sure to read the label. Now, what on the label do you want to read? The ingredients. You want to know all the ingredients that the food manufacturer has added to the contents of the can or package. This is different than the nutritional values part of the label. Let me give you an example:

A box of raisins has “raisins” and nothing else listed for the ingredients. However, the amount of natural sugar in the raisins shows up on the nutritional value of the food. Since no sugar is listed with the ingredients, then the raisins are fine for the Daniel Fast.

A package of craisins (dried cranberries) is a completely different story. When you look at the ingredients you will find sugar listed as an ingredient. That means the food manufacturer has added sugar and then packaged the food. This same principle goes with canned and frozen fruits and vegetables, prepared salad dressings, boxed cereals and all the prepared foods you might consider for the Daniel Fast.

The Daniel Fast is based on two anchoring passages of Scripture found in Daniel 1 and Daniel 10, along with typical Jewish fasting principles. There is one element of the verses used that leaves room for interpretation and that is found in Daniel 10 where the prophet reports that he “ate no precious food.”

Here’s the deal; Nowhere does the Bible say you can only eat raw foods, or you have to start the Daniel Fast with only water, or that you can’t have potatoes. Also, the Daniel Fast is not a natural foods diet. While all the goods we eat on the fast would be considered natural foods (no chemicals and no highly processed foods) . . . not all natural foods are allowed on the Daniel Fast (such as honey or yogurt)...etc

Today Our Church Began our 2010 Daniel Fast 21 day Journey together...many blessings to you all!

2010-01-10T23:03:00.000-08:00

The Daniel Fast: Feed Your Soul, Strengthen Your Spirit and Renew Your Body....this is a time for Spiritual Renewal...you may find it helpful to fast from Media, Social Networks and other time wasters that get you caught up in the busy information age we live in...and yet so much of what we do accomplishes ~little~ for our spirit & soul. Focus on the word of God and on reading & listening to uplifting messages and music. Silence & meditation is a lost art in our culture. Spend time with God~listening to Him. Take a nature prayer walk. Allow God to speak to you and give you a New Direction for 2010!

Fruit Medley

2010-01-10T17:47:00.000-08:00

I enjoyed a bowl of various cut up fruits for dessert today. After an Asian lunch of broccoli & tofu over brown rice~I was looking forward to a palette cleanser. ha I admit...tofu is new to me...I have tried it through the years...but only ate it last year on the Daniel Fast in earnest. I have vegan friends who are fans of Tofu...I'm still hoping that I will like it..It will make it easier to cook various things I am familiar with cooking. I am still getting used to the texture and maybe "lack" of taste. haha :-) ...........So, a fruit bowl for dessert and a little xylitol sprinkled over it was really tasty. If you are like me and enjoy milk over fruit...add a little cold Almond or Rice milk over the top of your fruit.

First Recipe in our Cooking Show Series

2010-01-08T21:53:00.000-08:00

Taco Soup

2010-01-08T12:51:00.000-08:00

Taco Soup

2 – 14.5 oz. cans of diced tomatoes, undrained

2 – 15.5 oz. cans of kidney beans, drained and rinsed

2 – 15.5 oz. cans of whole kernal corn, undrained

2 – 15 oz. cans of black beans, drained and rinsed

1 – 16 oz. can of chick peas, undrained

1 – 16 oz. can of pinto beans, undrained

2 packets of taco seasoning

12 oz. soy crumbles (optional)

Combine all ingredients in a large crock pot. Add water to make a thinner soup. Cook on Low for 8+ hours. Serve alone or with corn tortilla chips. Makes about 16 – 1 cup servings.

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Mexican Style Potatoes

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**Use Whole Wheat Tortillas, Vegan refried beans, Veggie shredded cheese, guacamole, hot sauce...whatever you choose to make your Veggie Fajitas....you can see a little of my chilled...organic 100% pure fruit juice....water is our main drink-but you can have pure fruit juice.

Vegan Restaurants In Orange County

2010-01-06T23:05:00.000-08:00

**I Will Add More Restaurants As I find them....if you have any you have tried let me know and I will share the info with others.

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Wholesome Foods....has Middle Eastern/Asian/Indian hot foods to go...you must ask to be sure ingredients are okay on Daniels Fast...ie- Vegan.

Wholesome Foods Grocery Store & Hot foods
5755 E. La Palma Ave
Anaheim Hills, CA 92807
714-779-7000

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Veggie Grill, Irvine
4213 Campus Dr
Irvine, CA 92612

http://www.veggiegrill.com/

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Wheel of Life, Irvine

http://www.wheelofliferestaurant.com
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Native Foods Costa Mesa

http://www.nativefoods.com/

Hours:
Monday-Sunday -11AM - 10PM

Locations: Tustin, Costa Mesa, Aliso Viejo

http://www.nativefoods.com/restaurants/locations/

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Mother's Market & Kitchen Hours
Monday - Sunday
8 am - 10 pm
(7 days)

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Loving Hut
27522 Antonio Pkwy. Suite P2
Ladera Ranch, Ca 92694
Tel:(949) 365-1077

www.lovinghut.us

Snack foods...read labels and be sure they fit in DF guidelines...ie no Sugar or Animal products

2010-01-03T21:27:00.000-08:00

*Rice cakes, just plain old crunchy patties

*Rice cakes with peanut butter and raisins

*Almonds

*Dried fruit including apricots

*Apples dipped in nut butter

*Sliced fruit

*Veggies with dip

*Popped popcorn

*Trail mix with nuts, raisins, sunflower seeds, coconut pieces and dried fruit

*Fruit kabobs

*Frozen fruit including grapes, blueberries, strawberries and bananas

*Whole wheat crackers* with nut butter

*Hummus with flat bread* ~use daniel fast recipe for flat bread

Garden Vegetable Soup

2010-01-03T21:23:00.001-08:00

This recipe calls for fresh vegetables, but substitute with frozen varieties if they are not available. By the way, tests show that frozen vegetables actually retain more of their vitamins and minerals because they are frozen so soon after harvesting.

Ingredients:

4 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups chopped leeks, white part only (from approximately 3 medium leeks)
2 tablespoons finely minced garlic
Salt
2 cups carrots, peeled and chopped into rounds (approximately 2 medium)
2 cups peeled and diced potatoes
2 cups fresh green beans, broken or cut into 3/4-inch pieces
2 quarts vegetable broth
4 cups peeled, seeded, and chopped tomatoes
2 ears corn, kernels removed
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/4 cup packed, chopped fresh parsley leaves
1 - 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

Preparation:

1.
Heat the olive oil in large, heavy-bottomed stockpot over medium-low heat. Once hot, add the leeks, garlic, and a pinch of salt and sweat until they begin to soften, approximately 7 to 8 minutes.
2.
Add the carrots, potatoes, and green beans and continue to cook for 4 to 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally.
3.
Add the stock, increase the heat to high, and bring to a simmer.
4.
Once simmering, add the tomatoes, corn kernels, and pepper. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook until the vegetables are fork tender, approximately 25 to 30 minutes.
5.
Remove from heat and add the parsley and lemon juice. Season, to taste, with kosher salt. Serve immediately.

Yield: 6 servings

Tips from Daniel Fast Sites...DRINK PLENTY OF WATER!!!

2010-01-03T21:01:00.000-08:00

Love those hunger pangs!

So often when we have hunger pangs, we rush for snacks or something that will make it go away. But some little insights about hunger pangs may have you making a different choice.

I love this one: hunger pangs actually mean that your body is using stored fat in our body. So if you want to lose some weight during the Daniel Fast, then welcome those hunger pangs.

Dehydration aften sends a message that "reads" like hunger. So instead of grabbing a snack . . . go for a tall glass of filtered water!

Finally, hunger pangs often pass after a few minutes. So when you sense hunger . . . wait it out.

So a new habit for those of us on the Daniel Fast is to READ THE LABEL so we can learn the ingredients included in the food inside the box, bag, can or jar. We are not so concerned about the nutritional list. But we are very concerned about the ingredients to make sure there are no sweeteners, dairy products or chemicals included in the food.

Remember, this is a fast! It's important to keep in mind that we are on a fast, which is restricting food for spiritual purposes. So while we can eat as much food as we want and any time we want . . . we want to keep in mind that we are fasting.

I encourage people to stick with three modest Daniel Fast meals and one or two small Daniel Fast snacks. The average-sized adult should drink about 1/2 gallon of filtered water each day.

2 Corinthians 2:14-15 (New King James Version)

2010-01-03T20:31:00.000-08:00

14 Now thanks be to God who always leads us in triumph in Christ, and through us diffuses the fragrance of His knowledge in every place. 15 For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.

Awesome 1st Sunday of 2010!!!

2010-01-03T17:55:00.000-08:00

We had a great service today....what a wonderful kick off for a NEW~GLORIOUS YEAR!!! 5 souls were baptized in Jesus Name. Evg. Loammi Diaz preached to us about Prayer being our first priority in the church. Get the CD and listen to it again...his ministry was a blessing to us.

Our family is kicking off the Daniel Fast Today....I will have a head start on the January 10th date that the church family is beginning the Journey so I will have recipes and helpful hints for you each step of the way.

January 6th: This Wednesday Night the Sanctuary Bible Class teaching will be focused on Prayer & Fasting...we are building momemtum for a great joint season of prayer and fasting.

There is an Encounter God Retreat for Men and for Women this Month...I encourage all who are feeling a drawing to get closer to God to attend a retreat this Month. We are starting our New Year off by aligning our hearts and our body & soul with the will of God.

ENCOUNTER GOD RETREATS: $110
Men: January 15-17....sign up in the foyer or call the office
Ladies: January 29-31

Coming soon: Our Live Cooking Videos for Daniel Fast

2010-01-02T21:44:00.001-08:00

Tips & Recipes From Sis. Eugenia, Bro. Norman & Sis. Copple

**Caringcarrot.com has many delicious Recipes by Eugenia....the one she is making above is Baked Orange Dream Yams...recipe below and on Caringcarrot.com
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http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=3529237525601488865&postID=864431637962045197

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Ingredients:

2 medium sized yams (the large ones are often too ripe for this recipe)
Agave nectar
2 cinnamon sticks
1 cup orange juice (peel off a long curl of orange peel)
1 teaspoon whole cloves

Directions:

1. Peel, cube, and wash yams and then place them in a baking dish along with the cinnamon sticks and the orange peel studded with cloves (this makes it easy to remove them at the end).
2. Sprinkle with some agave nectar (at least a couple of tablespoons) and pour the orange juice on the yams.
3. Bake in a 425 degree oven for 45 minutes covered with foil.
4. Bake uncovered for 10-15 more minutes until slightly brown. Sprinkle with some cinnamon powder and serve with a cup of decaf tea if desired.

*Warning: If you bake the yams too long, they will be very soft like baby food.

Apple~Carrot Zinger....Juice

2010-01-01T23:27:00.000-08:00

(Juices are a very good quick breakfast~juicing various fresh fruits & veggies is a great way to go if you are in a hurry!)

~
1 1/2 lbs. carrots, washed well
3/4 lb. apples (approximately 2 large), washed well
1-inch piece ginger

Begin by trimming the ends off the carrots and then cut them into 4-inch pieces that will fit through your juicer. Next, core the apples, discarding the seeds, and cut the apples into pieces that will fit through your juicer. Remove some of the peel from the piece of ginger. Turn on your juicer, and juice in the following order: half of the carrots, the piece of ginger, all of the apple, and then the remaining half of the carrots. This will allow the flavors to blend while juicing. Serve immediately to retain as many of the nutrients as possible. If necessary, store the juice in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and use within 2 days.

Yield: 2 Cups

Happy 2010!!! This is going to be a GREAT NEW YEAR!

2009-12-31T09:39:00.000-08:00

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Black Bean Chilli topped~Baked Sweet Potatoes

4 large sweet potatoes, washed well (do not peel)
1/2 cup onion, diced
1 1/2 t. olive oil
1/2 cup green pepper, destemmed, deseeded, and diced
1/2 cup Roma tomatoes, destemmed, deseeded, and diced
2 t. garlic, minced
1/2 t. chili powder
1/2 t. ground cumin
1/4 t. salt
1/8 t. freshly ground black pepper
1 - 15 oz. can black beans, rinsed, and drained
1 - 8 oz. can tomato sauce
hot pepper sauce, to taste

Using a fork, pierce the skins of the sweet potatoes in several places. Place an oven-proof rack on a cookie sheet and place the sweet potatoes on the rack. Bake at 400 degrees for 60-75 minutes or until the sweet potatoes feel soft when gently squeezed. While the sweet potatoes are baking, prepare the black bean chili. In a medium saucepan, saute the onion in the olive oil for 3 minutes to soften. Add the green pepper and saute an additional 3-4 minutes or until the vegetables are tender. Add the tomatoes, garlic, and seasonings, and saute an additional 2 minutes. Add the black beans, tomato sauce, and season to taste with hot pepper sauce, stir well to combine, and simmer the chili for 10 minutes. Taste and adjust seasonings, to taste. Remove the saucepan from the heat. When the sweet potatoes are tender, remove the cookie sheet from the oven and leave the sweet potatoes on the rack to cool for 5 minutes. For each serving, place one sweet potato on a plate or in a bowl, split it open, ladle some of the black bean chili over the top, and serve.

Serves 4

Vegan Enchiladas

2009-12-30T20:21:00.001-08:00

No-Roll Enchiladas

*Easy to assemble, this layered casserole is a great dish to take to potlucks. People won't believe how rich it tastes! Be sure all ingredients are vegan--look at the ingredients on the tortillas as well.

1 large bell pepper (red or green)
1 large onion
1 can refried beans (or homemade)
1 can enchilada sauce (or homemade)
1 cup salsa (homemade or otherwise, as spicy as you want)
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained (or other beans to your liking)
tortillas (any kind, but corn tortillas work well)
cooking spray
optional: 1 medium tomato
Preheat the oven to 350 (F). Dice the onion, pepper, and tomato (if using). (You may at this point sauté the onion and pepper in a non-stick skillet to soften, if you want.) Spray the bottom of a casserole dish with cooking spray and lay down a tortilla (if your tortillas are smaller than your casserole, you can layer them -- but be sure the bottom of the dish is covered or it'll stick like crazy).

Spread a layer of refried beans on the top of the tortilla(s) -- you may want to heat the beans first to make them spread more easily. Pour half of the salsa and half of the onions over the beans. Put another tortilla on top of this layer. Layer the black beans, green pepper, tomato (if using), and the rest of the salsa and onion on top of the tortilla(s). Put another tortilla on the top (your casserole should be pretty full by now). Pour the can of enchilada sauce over the whole thing and bake, covered, for about 35-45 minutes or until it's hot and bubbly all the way through. Serve with vegan sour cream or all by itself. This freezes extremely well.

Of course, you can fiddle with this and add or take away ingredients. It's a little different every time I make it, since I layer things differently. Experiment and enjoy!

Serves: 4-6, Preparation time: 1.5 hr

Rice & Black Eyed Peas

2009-12-30T20:16:00.000-08:00

Spicy Rice and Black-Eyed PeasFast, easy, and really good!

3/4 cup uncooked rice* (brown)
1/4 cup green pepper, chopped.
1 medium onion, chopped (1/2 cup)
1/4 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. red cayenne pepper
1 tsp. oregano
2 cloves of garlic
1 (15 oz) can stewed tomatoes
1 (15 oz) can blackeyed peas, drained.
1/2 cup water

Mix all ingredients in a 10 inch skillet and bring to a boil. Cover, turn the heat down to low and let simmer for 25 minutes or until the sauce is incorporated. Serve.

*MWL Option: Substitute brown rice for the white and increase the water to 3/4 cups and the cooking time to 45 minutes. Or, use 1 1/2 cups cooked brown rice and add it during the last 10 minutes of cooking (25 minutes total).

Veggie Fajitas for One

2009-12-30T20:07:00.000-08:00

Ingredients

2 Green Bell Peppers, sliced
2 cups Sliced Mushrooms
1 Red Onion, sliced
2-3 Serrano Chiles, chopped
1 tbsp Ground Cumin
1 tsp Kosher Salt
1 tsp Ground Black Pepper
3-4 tbsp Lime Juice
1-2 cups Fresh Guacamole
2 tbsp Olive Oil
4-6 Fajita-Style Whole Wheat Tortillas

Directions:
Wrap tortillas in moist paper towels and then in foil. Place in oven on "Warm" or lowest setting.

Slice bell peppers and onion into long strips. Heat olive oil in large skillet. Add bell peppers, onion, sliced mushrooms, and diced serrano chiles.

Add cumin, salt, pepper, and lime juice. Saute on med-high heat until onions are translucent. Turn heat to low, and simmer 5 mins or so until most liquid is reabsorbed/evaporated.

Smear each tortilla with generous (1-2 tbsp) portion of guacamole. Add veggies and serve.

Pasta Salad!

2009-12-30T19:41:00.000-08:00

Ingredients

Salad:

1 pound Whole Wheat pasta
Freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 yellow squash, sliced into 1/4-inch thick discs
1 zucchini squash, sliced into 1/4-inch thick discs
1 cup diced sun-dried tomatoes
1 cup packed fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup fresh packed parsley leaves

Dressing:

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 garlic cloves, lightly crushed with the side of a knife blade, and quartered
1 teaspoon stone ground mustard
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Directions

Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente and drain well.

Toss with ground black pepper and olive oil.
For the dressing, add the vinegar to a blender and replace the lid.

Turn on the blender add, 1 at a time through the feed opening, garlic, mustard, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.

Leaving the blender running, add the olive oil in a slow thin stream.
Toss together the pasta, yellow squash, zucchini, sun-dried tomatoes, basil and parsley with enough of the dressing to coat.

Serve any additional dressing on the side.

Prayer quote....Rev. T.D. Jakes

2009-12-28T23:48:00.000-08:00

"I like to be in a prayerful atmosphere. I tell my wife if I ever get sick, if I ever get paralyzed, if I ever get where I can't move, if I ever get where I can't talk roll my big hind end into church. Put me in an atmosphere with some praying people. I might not be able to talk, but let me soak it up- because there's something about being around prayer. You don't even have to be the one praying, but if you get around somebody who really know how to pray - prayer will lift you when you've fallen, prayer will catch you when you've lost your grip, prayer will stop you from going overboard, prayer will bring you out!" ~~T.D. Jakes~~

New Year~New Beginnings!!!

2009-12-28T23:38:00.000-08:00

*Start by doing what's necessary; then do what's possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible.--St. Francis of Assisi

*Take the first step in faith. You don't have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.--Martin Luther King Jr.

*There must be a beginning of any great matter, but the continuing unto the end until it be thoroughly finished yields the true glory.--Sir Francis Drake

'Food For Life'-products are recommended

2009-12-27T21:03:00.000-08:00

**The ONLY bread you can have is Ezekiel 4:9 sprouted bread. This is not made with white flour, sugars or animal products. We recommend the Food for Life Tortillas also for Mexican food. It is all made vegan and gluten free. To read more...check out link below.

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http://www.foodforlife.com/
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**Peta from Food for Life--use for sandwiches, Hummus or peanut butter & banana sandwiches~~

*Cereal to have with your Almond, Rice or Soy Milk....

Yves Veggie Ham & Lunchmeats....a soy product

2009-12-27T20:41:00.000-08:00

Yves Veggie Ham should be available at most Whole Food Stores. Good for putting in sandwiches or soups.
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Veggie Ham Sandwich with veggie cheese(Soy)on Ezekial 4:9 Bread---Make your food look pretty and appetizing it will help you to enjoy the new experience of ~No Meat~ foods. :-)

Wild Rice Soup

2009-12-27T20:24:00.000-08:00

Wild Rice Soup

Ingredients:

1/4 cup olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
1/4 cup + 1 tablespoon whole wheat flour
3 cups chicken-style vegetarian broth
2 cups plain, unsweetened soy milk (regular, not fat free)
1 pkg. veggie ham (optional)
2 cups wild rice, cooked
1 medium carrot, diced
1 stalk celery, diced
1/2 cup slivered almonds
Dash cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt & pepper

Directions:
Saute onions in olive oil until soft. Add whole wheat flour and stir until mixed. Add broth and mix thoroughly. Bring to boil and simmer for 10 minutes, or until thickened.

While broth mixture is simmering, heat (do NOT boil) soymilk in separate pan. Also, sauté veggie ham (if you are using it) in a fry pan until browned. Cut into bite sized pieces.

Add remaining ingredients to soup mixture. Bring to boil and simmer for no less than 20 minutes, and up to 2 hours.

Comments:
This soup is SOO simple! I got the recipe from a friend, and I veganized it. Her recipe called for half and half, and regular ham, and butter. I've made this soup for countless meat eaters, and they go gaga over it! I hope you find it equally enjoyable.

Tip: I use one can of wild rice, so instead of having to cook the rice I just pop it in.

Prepare Yourself!

2009-12-26T19:38:00.000-08:00

*Start preparing spiritually, mentally and physically for the Daniel Fast. *Start drinking more water and fresh foods and backing off of the sugars and the caffeine's in coffee, carbonated drinks. *Start cleaning out your food pantry of the sugar, high fat foods to avoid and collecting items that are organic and healthy on our list! *This will help you to have less of a reaction when you start full time on the Daniel Fast.

Hummus Dip

2009-12-25T18:40:00.001-08:00

One of my favorites--easy to make and you can use with your favorite Veggies to dip or Vegan/whole week pita.

Daniel Fast Food List

2009-12-25T18:39:00.003-08:00

Fruits
These can be fresh, frozen, dried, juiced or canned. Fruits include but are not limited to apples, apricots, bananas, blackberries, blueberries, boysenberries, cantaloupe, cherries, cranberries, figs, grapefruit, grapes, guava, honeydew melon, kiwi, lemons, limes, mangoes, nectarines, oranges, papayas, peaches, pears, pineapples, plums, prunes, raisins, raspberries, strawberries, tangelos, tangerines, watermelon

Vegetables
These can be fresh, frozen, dried, juiced or canned. Vegetables include but are not limited to artichokes, asparagus, beets, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celery, chili peppers, collard greens, corn, cucumbers, eggplant, garlic, ginger root, kale, leeks, lettuce, mushrooms, mustard greens, okra, onions, parsley, potatoes, radishes, rutabagas, scallions, spinach, sprouts, squashes, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, turnips, watercress, yams, zucchini, veggie burgers are an option if you are not allergic to soy.

Whole Grains
All whole grains, including but not limited to whole wheat, brown rice, millet, quinoa, oats, barley, grits, whole wheat pasta, whole wheat tortillas, rice cakes and popcorn.

Nuts & Seeds
All nuts and seeds, including but not limited to sunflower seeds, cashews, peanuts, sesame. Also nut butters including peanut butter.

Water
Spring water, distilled water or other pure waters.

Drink Plenty of Water Every Day!!!

The Daniel Fast Basics(Foods to avoid)

2009-12-25T18:39:00.001-08:00

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*Meat, eggs, all animal ingredients/products
*Fried foods
*White flour and all products using it
*White rice, white bread, hominy and pasta
*All Caffeine--in foods or drinks--coffee or tea
*Carbonated beverages, including diet sodas
*Wine, beer or any other alcoholic drinks(:-) of course)
*All food containing perservetives or
*Refined sugar/honey.....you can use=Stevia, Xylitol, Agave
*High fructose corn syrup
*Chemical sugar substitutes/artificial sweetners
*Margarine, shortening, animal fat, high fat products

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~~This is a list of things to avoid~~be sure to read labels well~~

You can fill up on Fruits & Veggies...all things that grow in God's garden are good for the Daniel Fast!!!

Starting '2010' ~~ Right with Prayer & Fasting!

2009-12-25T18:32:00.001-08:00

1 Make your meals somewhat lighter for a few days leading up to your fast and taper off caffeine.
2 Avoid distractions. This is a sacred time between you and God, so avoid secular TV or radio shows.
3 Start off with your focus beginning to worship God through sacrifice and to love Him more than His gifts.
4 Begin days with an unselfish prayer several times during the day.
5 Spend time with God and in studying the Bible.
6 Seek the Lord diligently for the answers to your prayers.
7 Pray often. Increase the frequency of your daily prayer time by a factor of 3 or more.
8 Ask for God's guidance in your life.

Isaiah 58 (New International Version)

2009-12-25T18:30:00.000-08:00

Isaiah 58~True Fasting

1- "Shout it aloud, do not hold back. Raise your voice like a trumpet. Declare to my people their rebellion and to the house of Jacob their sins.

2- For day after day they seek me out; they seem eager to know my ways,as if they were a nation that does what is right and has not forsaken the commands of its God. They ask me for just decisions and seem eager for God to come near them.

3- 'Why have we fasted,' they say,'and you have not seen it? Why have we humbled ourselves, and you have not noticed?'"Yet on the day of your fasting, you do as you please and exploit all your workers.

4- Your fasting ends in quarreling and strife and in striking each other with wicked fists. You cannot fast as you do today and expect your voice to be heard on high.

5- Is this the kind of fast I have chosen,only a day for a man to humble himself? Is it only for bowing one's head like a reed and for lying on sackcloth and ashes? Is that what you call a fast, a day acceptable to the LORD ?

6- "Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke?

7- Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter— when you see the naked, to clothe him, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?

8- Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you,and the glory of the LORD will be your rear guard.

9- Then you will call, and the LORD will answer; you will cry for help, and he will say: Here am I. "If you do away with the yoke of oppression, with the pointing finger and malicious talk,

10- and if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday.

11- The LORD will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.

12- Your people will rebuild the ancient ruins and will raise up the age-old foundations; you will be called Repairer of Broken Walls, Restorer of Streets with Dwellings.

13- "If you keep your feet from breaking the Sabbath and from doing as you please on my holy day,if you call the Sabbath a delight and the LORD's holy day honorable, and if you honor it by not going your own way and not doing as you please or speaking idle words,

14- then you will find your joy in the LORD, and I will cause you to ride on the heights of the land and to feast on the inheritance of your father Jacob." The mouth of the LORD has spoken.

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~~Bible Study and Prayer is an important part of your Fast...over the next 21 days. Read the scripture daily and pray for the Lord to speak to your heart~~