How to Get Healthy Skin, Hair and Nails With This 5 Super Foods

Howtojetro.blogspot.com | How to Get Healthy Skin, Hair and Nails With This 5 Super Foods - As a conscious consumer equally passionate about healthy living, nutrition, and cosmetics, I have learned that good beauty products can be of some help to improve our appearance, but they will never replace the importance of our bodies receiving nutrients from whole foods. Several studies have highlighted the critical impact that nutrition has on our skin and how the lack of certain nutrients makes our skin more vulnerable to certain conditions. In addition, during the past few years there has been increased interest in a variety of popular diets (Weight Watchers, Abs Women, Bonus Years, Vegan, Paleo, etc.). It seems to me that this has caused much confusion as to what is really good for our bodies and what is not.

Thankfully, when searching for foods containing nutrients that are most beneficial for healthy skin, hair and nails, most nutritionists and dermatologists seem to agree about the benefits offered by the following foods:

1. Avocados and Olive Oil

I am very glad avocados have become a more popular food because they are an excellent source of Vitamin E and healthy fats, in addition to containing fiber and Vitamin C. Personally, I eat them almost every day. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble antioxidant that has been found to have photoprotective qualities. It provides some protection against UV radiation and it also prevents inflammatory, UV-caused damage to the skin. In addition to being a great source of Vitamin E, olive oil is also rich in polyphenolic compounds, antioxidant substances that fight free radicals and therefore help in preventing premature aging. Vitamin E is also a very effective topical skincare ingredient.

One of my favorite skincare products, argan oil, is packed with Vitamin E and works as a fantastic skin moisturizer for people with combination and oily skin types, as it has sebum-regulating properties. It also works wonders when applied on damaged/brittle hair.

2. Leafy Greens

I’m sure you saw this one coming! Leafy greens — especially spinach and kale — are an exceptional source of phytonutrients. In particular, spinach offers two nutrients, lutein and beta-carotene, which have been shown to promote the skin’s elasticity. Leafy greens also provide Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps with repairing the skin from any damage caused by exposure to UV rays and environmental toxins. Vitamin C also helps to boost collagen production, promoting the skin’s firmness and elasticity. We just cannot skip on the greens, folks.

Tip: If you have a hard time eating your greens because you don’t like the taste of them, try to sauté them in a little grass-fed butter, such as unsalted Kerry Gold butter, available at most grocery stores across America and Europe. Add a pinch of sea salt and garlic powder to taste. If you are lactose intolerant, you can use ghee instead of butter. Ghee has the same benefits of grass-fed butter but it is almost entirely free of the milk solids present in butter. If you have to avoid dairy products all together, you can use coconut oil, (not virgin, but expeller-pressed coconut oil, as it has no coconut flavor to it).

3. Fermented Foods

Many skin conditions (acne included) may be caused by an unhealthy gut, which is unable to properly digest the foods we eat and promote the absorption of nutrients. Fermented foods introduce healthy bacteria into our gut, allowing the gut to function better and improve our overall health as they provide probiotics, vitamins and enzymes. Some studies have found rosacea and other skin conditions to be triggered by an inflamed, unhealthy gut. Glutathione (GSH) is a byproduct of fermentation and it is a potent antioxidant (also present in avocados). Fermenting foods is also an inexpensive, easy process. I must admit that I was not a big fan of sauerkraut, but after reading about the benefits of eating fermented foods I have started to eat it often.

4. Nuts

Nuts are true nutrition powerhouses. They are rich in omega fatty acids, vitamins, antioxidants and minerals. In particular, Brazil nuts contain selenium, which has been found to be particularly beneficial for the hair and scalp, especially when dry or prone to dandruff. Like avocados and olive oil, nuts are a great source of Vitamin E, which carries all the benefits mentioned above. Pumpkin seeds are an excellent source of zinc, which has been shown to be impressively beneficial in acne patients.

Tip: For full nutritional benefits, nuts should be consumed raw and should be properly prepared by soaking. Soaking nuts overnight helps to rid them of the antinutrients that make them difficult to digest. Prepare the nuts in a similar manner as you would beans and other legumes. Soak the nuts overnight (for at least 7 hours) in filtered water with one tablespoon of sea salt. Once they are soaked, drain the water and rinse them off. Then allow them to dry in the oven at a temperature no higher than 150 F for 12-24 hours, stirring occasionally. They will also taste better!

5. Eggs

Egg yolks contain an especially important nutrient called biotin, which is a B Vitamin (B7). Low levels of biotin may result in brittle nails and hair loss, while healthy levels of biotin may actually reverse such conditions. However, in order to get the full benefits of eating eggs you should try to purchase pastured eggs from a local farm, where the chickens are truly cage free and have access to sunlight, grass and bugs. Unhealthy chickens do not produce healthy eggs! If vegan, you can obtain your biotin intake from peanuts.

If you are ready to introduce some healthy, nutrient-dense foods into your diet, remember that it is not only important to add nutrient-dense foods to our diet, but that we also need to eliminate foods that do not offer any benefits, such as processed foods. Moreover, healthy skin, hair and nails also depend on other health and lifestyle factors such as: food allergies, food intolerances, sleep habits, exercise habits, stress management and water intake. Some medications may also carry side effects that impact our appearance. All factors are very important, and only by keeping balance can maintain healthy, glowing skin, hair and nails.

How to Improve Your Skin With This Healthy Drinks

Howtojetro.blogspot.com | How to Improve Your Skin With This Healthy Drinks - You might have already heard that drinking plenty of water is essential to keep your skin healthy and glowing. The main reason is that skin cells contain a high percentage of water and need it to properly function, just like every other cell of our body. While water is the only essential one, there are other drinks that are beneficial to the skin. These healthy drinks provide not only a certain amount of water, but also other nutrients that support the skin cells' protective and repairing functions.

1. Coconut Water

An easy way to drink more of it? Swap your sports drink with coconut water.
Compared to sports drinks, coconut water is a healthier option because it is naturally sweet and does not contain artificial sweeteners. It is also a source of potassium, which most people are slightly deficient in due to the insufficient amount of fruit and vegetables in the their diet. However, what makes it so beneficial to the skin is that it contains high amounts of antioxidants, which combat free-radicals that are responsible for premature aging. Lastly, there are several nutrients in coconut water that are currently being researched for their medical benefits, such as phytohormones. In particular, one of the phytohormones contained in coconut water, called trans-zeatin, was found to have anti-aging and youth-preserving effects, according to a 2005 study.

2. Green Tea

An easy way to drink more of it? Limit your coffee intake and drink more green tea. 
Due to its dehydrating effects, it is best to limit your coffee intake. Green tea does not have a dehydrating effect on the body and it contains powerful antioxidants called polyphenols that have anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic properties. A study has found evidence that one of these compounds, called EGCG, may help with the healing of several skin conditions, such as psoriasis, rosacea, wounds, and even wrinkles. Polyphenols are also photo-protective and photo-repairing; evidence suggests that drinking green tea can effectively prevent sun damage.

Although green tea is one of the few teas with sufficient evidence supporting the medical claims, there are a few more teas that are recommended for improving the skin, such as, black tea, dandelion tea, and nettle tea.

3. Cold-Pressed Juices

An easy way to drink more of it? Skip sugary fruit juices from concentrate and drink a cold-pressed juice. 
Cold-pressed juices are an easy way to increase your intake of the nutrients that are in fruits and vegetables. What makes cold-pressed juice more beneficial than conventionally prepared fruit juice (aside from being free of added sugar) is that, without heating and over-processing the ingredients, more nutrients are left in the drink, such as vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. The nutritional value depends on the ingredients chosen, but most vegetables and fruits contain beneficial vitamins like vitamin C (which boosts collagen formation), and many other antioxidant-rich nutrients that support skin cells.

How to Make a German Chocolate Cake

Howtojetro.blogspot.com | How to Make a German Chocolate Cake - Despite the "German" name, this traditional cake has its origins in the United States, named after Sam German, an American chocolatier. The impressive cake is comprised of three layers of moist chocolate cake, filled with a gooey caramel frosting and laced with both coconut and pecan. A drizzle of chocolate espresso sauce renders further indulgence on many levels.

Things You'll Need
1. 3 cups cake flour
2. 3/4 cup + 1 tablespoon Dutch-processed cocoa powder
3. 2 teaspoons baking powder
4. 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
5. 2 teaspoons espresso powder (optional)
6. 1 3/4 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
7. 3 cups granulated sugar
8. 1 1/2 cups light brown sugar
9. 4 large eggs, at room temperature
10. 1 tablespoon + 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
11. 2 cups buttermilk, at room temperature
12. 4 egg yolks
13. 12 ounces / 350 milliliters evaporated milk
14. 2 cups pecans, chopped
15. 1 cup shredded coconut
16. 2 ounces / 55 grams dark chocolate, chopped, plus extra for sprinkling
17. 1/2 cup heavy cream

Heat the oven to 350 F / 170 C.

Set out all of the ingredients you will need. Grease and line three 9-inch / 18-centimeter round cake pans, and set them aside.

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, 3/4 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, salt and 1 teaspoon of the espresso powder, if using.

Step 2: Beat the Butter and Sugar
In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, or with electric handheld beaters, beat 1 cup of the butter, 1 1/2 cups of the granulated sugar and the brown sugar until light and fluffy, 4 to 6 minutes.

Step 3: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Add the 4 whole eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then beat in 1 tablespoon of the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Incorporate the Flour
Reduce the mixer speed to low, and add half of the flour mixture. Continue to beat until it's incorporated.

Step 5: Add the Buttermilk and Remaining Flour
In a steady stream, add the buttermilk and beat until thoroughly combined. Then, add in the remaining half of the flour mixture and mix until just combined. Remove the bowl from the mixer, and finish combining by gently stirring it with a spatula.

Step 6: Divide and Bake
Divide the batter among the prepared pans, and bake until a wooden skewer inserted in the center comes out clean, 25 to 35 minutes. Let the cakes cool in their pans for 20 minutes before inverting onto wire racks to finish cooling completely. Level off any domed tops.

Step 7: Make the Filling
Combine 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar, the remaining 3/4 cup of unsalted butter, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, the egg yolks and the evaporated milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a simmer, and then reduce the heat to medium-low and continue to cook until thick and glossy, roughly 10 to 12 minutes. Strain the mixture through a sieve and into a bowl. Stir in 1 1/2 cups of chopped pecans and the shredded coconut. Cover with plastic wrap, and chill until firm.

Step 8: Build the Cake
When the cakes are cool, place the first cake layer on a stand or plate and spread with 1/3 of the chilled filing. Cover this with the second cake layer, and spread with 1/3 of the filling. Top with the third layer, and cover it with the remaining filling.

Step 9: Decorate
Decorate the top of the cake with the remaining 1/2 cup of pecans and a handful of chocolate shavings. Chill the cake while you prepare the chocolate espresso sauce.

Step 10: Make the Chocolate Espresso Sauce
Combine the chopped dark chocolate, remaining teaspoon of espresso and 1 tablespoon of Dutch-processed cocoa powder in a small bowl and set aside. In a small saucepan, heat the cream until it is boiling. Pour the cream into the bowl containing the chocolate, and let it sit for a minute before whisking the mixture until glossy and smooth.

Step 11: Finish the Cake
Drizzle the chilled cake with the chocolate espresso sauce before slicing and serving.

Tip

• You can store this cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Remove the cake from the refrigerator 30 minutes before serving.

How to Make Fruit Juice Ice Pops

Howtojetro.blogspot.com | How to Make Fruit Juice Ice Pops - Homemade ice pops make for a refreshing treat in the summertime, and they're easy to make at home. Using an ice pop mold and store-bought or homemade fruit juice, it takes seconds to prepare a variety of flavors for freezing. Make refined sugar-free ice pops by choosing 100 percent juices for a healthy and delicious treat. You also can get creative with your ice pops by adding layers.

How to Make Traditional Ice Pops

Step 1: Choose Your Juice Flavor
Use your favorite store-bought or homemade juice. For best results, use juice that is naturally sweet or sweetened, such as lemonade or limeade

Step 2: Fill the Mold
Leave 1/2 inch of space at the top of the mold, as liquid expands when it freezes.

Step 3: Cover and Freeze
If using a mold with built-in sticks, simply place the cover on the mold and freeze for 5 hours.

If using a mold that requires inserting wooden or plastic sticks, place the cover over the juice and freeze for two hours without the sticks. After two hours, place the sticks into the center of the partially frozen ice pops. The sticks should stand on their own. Place the mold back in the freezer for an additional 3 hours.

Step 4: Unmold and Enjoy!
To serve, allow the ice pops to thaw 5 to 10 minutes before removing the cover and pulling gently on the sticks. To speed up the process, you can run the outside of the mold under warm water for 15 to 20 seconds. The ice pops should come out easily.

How to Make Layered Ice Pops

Step 1: Prepare the First Layer
Blend, mix, or whisk together the ingredients for the first layer. You can make layered ice pops using fruit juice or a blended yogurt or coconut milk mixture.

Step 2: Partially Fill the Mold
Evenly distribute the mixture for the first layer in the mold. Fill depending on the desired thickness of the layer. Cover the mold, and place it in the freezer for 30 minutes.

Step 3: Prepare the Next Layer
Blend, mix, or whisk together the ingredients for the second layer, and pour it into the mold. Cover and freeze 30 to 40 minutes.

Step 4: Repeat for Remaining Layers
Continue adding layers, freezing for 30 minutes in between.

Step 5: Cover and Insert Sticks
Once you have completely filled the molds, cover the mold and insert the sticks into the center. Freeze an additional 2 to 4 hours, until ice pops are completely frozen.

Step 6: Remove From Mold
Remove ice pops from freezer and allow them to thaw about 5 to 10 minutes so they come out of the mold easily. You can run warm water over the outsides of the mold for about 20 seconds to speed up the process.

How to Boost Heart Health With This Smart Snacks

Howtojetro.blogspot.com | How to Boost Heart Health With This Smart Snacks - It's no secret that the heart is one of the body's most vital organs, so it's important to take care of it. Exercise, of course, is key to good heart health, but so is the right diet. Lean protein, whole grains and vegetables are all great suggestions when it comes to planning our daily meals, but sometimes we snack on foods that may not bode well for the heart. To make sure you munch on heart-healthy snacks, try these suggestions to give your heart a boost.

Soak Your Oats

Not just for breakfast anymore, oatmeal and oat bran are perfect for an afternoon snack. "Oatmeal and oat bran consistently lower cholesterol linked to a compound, beta-glucan, which is a potent soluble fiber," says Layne Lieberman, R.D., culinary nutritionist and author of "Beyond the Mediterranean Diet: European Secrets of the Super-Healthy." She suggests soaking bircher muesli oats overnight with dried fruit, fresh fruit, nonfat yogurt, almond milk and chopped almonds.

Fish Food

An ideal snack for when you're on the go, tuna is a great way to boost heart health. Dr. Matthew Budoff, M.D., a cardiologist with the Los Angeles Biomedical Research Institute, says fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which may help protect against heart attacks. Toss a can in your bag, or, if you have more time, dish it up with a scoop of salsa and a squeeze of lime, says cookbook author Tina Ruggiero, M.S., R.D., L.D.

Go Nutty

Nuts have a strong reputation for being good for the heart, but don't just grab a handful. Lieberman suggests making a walnut hummus. "Walnuts contain a good dose of omega-3 fatty acids that other nuts don't," she says. "Omega-3s lower triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood, and may slow down plaque buildup in the arteries." To make hummus, combine 19 ounces of chick peas with 1/4 cup of walnuts in a blender. Add three tablespoons of lemon juice, and season with cumin and pepper.

Warm It Up

For a quick snack, nutritionist Alison Borgmeyer, M.S., R.D., loves Egg Beaters SmartCups. "I pop them in the microwave, add some peppers and a sprinkle of cheese, and I'm good to go until dinner," she says. "Less than 200 calories with no cholesterol and little fat but with vitamins, minerals and satisfying protein that your heart needs to keep you moving."

Play It Smooth

Lieberman suggests making a heart-healthy smoothie with a frozen banana, a handful of spinach, one mango and 1.5 cups of almond milk. "Spinach adds a heavy dose of antioxidants, including vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin A (in the form of carotenoids), manganese, zinc and selenium," she says. "Antioxidants from natural foods have been associated with a decreased risk of atherosclerosis (plaque buildup) and high blood pressure."

Oh Soy!

Adding soy into your diet offers many benefits for the heart. "Soybean oil is relatively low in saturated fat and has zero grams trans fat per serving," says Mark Messina, Ph.D., M.S., soy health expert for the United Soybean Board. "Plus it contains vitamin E and essential omega-6 and omega-3 polyunsaturated fat, which can promote cardiovascular health." Try pairing edamame hummus with your favorite veggies for a nutrient boost, he adds.

Add Some Sweet

Baked sweet potatoes are heart smart because they are a super-food, packed with calcium, potassium, and vitamins A and C, Lieberman says. "They are virtually fat-free, low in sodium, are one of the most nutritious vegetables and a good source of the soluble fiber pectin known to lower LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol)," she adds. "They even contain vitamin E. These vitamins, minerals and fiber are responsible for protecting the body against heart disease and stroke."

Easy Peasy

Want a snack with crunch? Borgmeyer recommends making your own treat with yellow and green split peas. "It's super easy with good fats and protein, great for the heart," she says. To make, soak one cup of dried split peas in three cups of water for 4.5 hours. In a large skillet, add a little olive oil, add peas and stir frequently. Cook five to 10 minutes until golden brown.

Indulge with Chocolate

Get your chocolate fix with Lieberman's chocolate tofu banana mousse. "Regular intake of soy protein in the form of tofu has been shown to lower LDL cholesterol, lower triglycerides and decrease the risk of blood clot formation," she says. To make, in a blender combine one banana, 12 ounces drained tofu, five tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, 1/4 cup maple syrup, three tablespoons almond or fat-free milk, and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon.

Enjoy a Drink

Pair your heart-healthy snacks with a heart-healthy beverage such as red wine or green tea. "Red wine contains antioxidants resveratrol and catechins, which may help protect artery walls," Lieberman says. "Alcohol, in moderation, can also boost HDL, the 'good' cholesterol." Green tea may improve blood flow in the vessels, she adds. If opting for wine, Lieberman recommends checking with your physician if you are currently taking medications including aspirin.

How to Make a Pineapple Palm Tree for a Serving Tray

Howtojetro.blogspot.com | How to Make a Pineapple Palm Tree for a Serving Tray - Here's a creative idea for a combination centerpiece or serving tray that puts the "wow" in your next luau or tropical-themed party. The palm tree is made of pineapples stacked on top of each other with palm fronds coming out of the top. The secret to keeping the pineapples upright is PVC pipe, but you can tell everyone it's the tiki gods.

Things You'll Need
1. 4 to 5 pineapples
2. Palm fronds
3. PVC pipe, 1 inch by 24 inches
4. PVC table cap, 1 inch
5. Wood screws
6. 12-inch wood disk, 3/4 inches thick
7. Wooden skewers
8. Aluminum foil
9. Knife
10. Serving platter
11. PVC pipe cutter (optional)

Step 1: Screw PVC Table Cap to the Wood Base

While the secret to keeping the pineapples standing is a PVC pipe, what allows the PVC pipe to stand vertically is a PVC table cap. You can find PVC table caps in different sizes at home improvement stores or online. Screw the table cap into the center of a 12-inch wood disk, which you can find pre-cut for you at me improvement stores.

Step 2: Cut PVC pipe if necessary

The 1-inch PVC pipe comes in a pre-cut 24-inch length. Measure the height of your pineapples to determine if, when stacked, they will be higher than the PVC pipe. Ideally, the stacked pineapples should extend just over the top of the PVC pipe. If your pineapples are shorter than 24 inches, the PVC pipe will need to be cut. Typically, with four pineapples you will need to cut the pipe. If you don't want to cut the pipe, just add a fifth pineapple.

Step 3: Insert the PVC Pipe in the PVC Table Cap

Wash your PVC pipe in hot, soapy water. Then place the PVC pipe in the table cap. It should fit snuggly.

Step 4: Cover with the Aluminum Foil

Cover the entire PVC pipe and wood base with aluminum foil. The foil will be a barrier to keep the pineapple and other food on the serving tray from coming in contact with the pipe and wood. Not only does the foil help with food safety, it also makes cleanup easier. For now, be sure to cover the opening of the PVC pipe with foil.

Step 5: Slice the Tops and Bottoms of the Pineapples

Using a sharp knife, cut the top and bottom off of each pineapple. Try to cut straight across so the cuts are parallel and level.

Step 6: Core the Pineapples

Cut out the center part of the pineapple, making the hole just over 1 inch in diameter. Be careful with the knife. When you've cut all the way through, the core can be pushed out. If there is any edible fruit around the core, slice it off and save it before discarding the core.

Step 7: Place the Base on a Serving Platter

Once you have created the pineapple palm tree, it will be heavy and difficult to move around, so ideally it should be assembled at the palm tree's desired location at your party. Place the foil-covered base on a large serving platter, and then you're ready to add the pineapples.

Step 8: Insert the First Pineapple

Line up the hole in the pineapple with the PVC pipe and slide the pineapple down until it sits on the base. Now you can see why we covered the top of the pipe with foil, so pieces of pineapple do not fall in the opening of the PVC pipe when the fruit goes through the pipe.

Step 9: Stack the Next Pineapple

Insert three wooden skewers in the first pineapple, and then slide down the second pineapple on top of the first, connecting them with the three skewers. While the PVC pipe keeps the pineapples upright, the skewers keep them from moving side to side.

Step 10: Continue Stacking the Pineapples

Place skewers in the second pineapple and slide the third pineapple down onto it. Repeat this process for the fourth pineapple and the fifth, if applicable, until the PVC pipe is hidden by the pineapples. You now have the tree trunk. Even though you tried cutting the pineapples straight across, they may still be angled. Don't worry. Actually, the palm tree looks more realistic when there's a slight tilt.

Step 11: Insert the Palm Fronds

Now that the pineapples are in place, go ahead and puncture a hole in the foil at the top of the PVC pipe. Insert palm fronds into the opening of the PVC pipe from different angles. By using the PVC pipe as the frond holder, it keeps them from coming in contact with the fruit. It's still a good idea to wash the palm fronds before inserting them into the pipe.

Step 12: Cover the Base

Now that the palm tree is complete, you can display food on the serving platter by placing it directly on the foil-covered base or on a bed of kale. The kale helps hide the base, but depending on what you are serving, it may not be necessary.

The Finished Pineapple Palm Tree

The pineapple palm tree will definitely be the talk of your next tropical-themed gathering. After your party, the trunk can be disassembled easily and the pineapple cut up and eaten. Cleanup is a breeze; just remove the aluminum foil and rinse the PVC pipe and wood base, if necessary. And because the pipe comes off the table cap, the base is easy to store.

How to Make Baked Oatmeal

Howtojetro.blogspot.com | How to Make Baked Oatmeal - Take classic oatmeal to the next level by baking it. Baked oatmeal is simple to make and is perfect to share with friends and family for breakfast or brunch. You can add fresh or dried fruit, nuts, nut butters and sweeteners to customize this delicious dish to your tastes. The basic recipe begins with rolled oats, milk, eggs and a sweetener, everything else is a bonus!

Tips

• To eliminate the refined sugar, substitute coconut sugar, pure maple syrup or honey.
• You can replace the whole milk with 2 percent milk. For a dairy-free version, use unsweetened almond milk or light coconut milk.

Things You'll Need
1. 2 cups rolled oats
2. 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
3. 1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder
4. 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
5. 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
6. 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
7. 2 cups whole milk
8. 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Basic Recipe

1. For a basic brown sugar and cinnamon baked oatmeal, start by gathering your ingredients. At a minimum, you will need rolled oats, milk, brown sugar, eggs, cinnamon, baking powder and salt. Heat the oven to 350 degrees F, and lightly oil an 8-by-8-inch baking dish.

2. Whisk together the milk, eggs and vanilla extract in a mixing bowl.

3. Stir together the oats, baking powder, brown sugar, salt and cinnamon.

4. Pour the dry oat mixture into the bowl with the wet milk or egg mixture and stir well.

5. Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake on the center rack for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the oatmeal sets up and tests clean when poked in the center. Allow the oatmeal to cool at least 10 minutes before cutting and serving.

Additional Flavoring Ideas

Now that you know how to make baked oatmeal, try experimenting with flavors. For mixed berry baked oatmeal, eliminate one of the eggs in the basic recipe (for a total of 2 eggs) and add 2 cups of fresh mixed berries, such as raspberries, strawberries, blueberries or blackberries. Following the same baking instructions, and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla yogurt.

For apple walnut baked oatmeal, add 1 peeled, cored and chopped apple such as Fuji or Honeycrisp and 1/2 cup chopped walnuts to the basic recipe, following the same baking instructions. Serve with a simple powdered sugar glaze or cream cheese frosting.

Tips

• Always use rolled oats when preparing baked oatmeal, as quick cooking oats will produce a different texture.
• For a gluten-free version, be sure your oats say "gluten-free" on the package.

How to Make Homemade Lemonade Cupcakes Recipe

Howtojetro.blogspot.com | How to Make Homemade Lemonade Cupcakes Recipe - Hello food lovers! How are you guys? On a hot summer day there’s nothing like an ice-cold glass of lemonade. Well what if instead of a glass it came in a cupcake? Introducing my latest creation, lemonade cupcakes! These tasty treats have everything you love about lemonade plus frosting! Bake a batch for your upcoming picnic, barbecue or pool party. Whatever the occasion, these sweet tart cupcakes are guaranteed to please.

Things You'll Need

• 1/2 Cup Butter (softened)
• 1 Cup Sugar
• 1 1/2 Tablespoon Lemon Zest
• 4 Egg Whites (room temperature)
• 3/4 Cup Cake Flour
• 3/4 Cup All-Purpose Flour
• 1/4 Teaspoon Salt
• 2 Teaspoons Baking Soda
• 1/2 Cup Buttermilk
• 1 1/2 Tablespoon Lemon Juice

For Frosting:

• 1/2 Cup Butter
• 4 Cup Powdered Sugar
• 4 Tablespoon Lemonade Concentrate (defrosted)
• 2 Tablespoons Buttermilk
• Lemon Zest for Garnish

Step 1
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Line a 12-cavity cupcake tin with baking cups.

Step 2
In the bowl of an electric mixer, cream together butter and sugar. Add lemon zest. Add egg whites one at a time beating after each addition.

Step 3
In a separate bowl combine flour, salt and baking soda.

Step 4
Combine buttermilk and lemon juice in a small bowl.

Step 5
Add alternately flour and buttermilk mixtures to the butter and sugar, scraping down the sides of the bowl, until fully combined.

Step 6
Fill cupcake tins ¾ full. Bake 18-20 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cupcake comes out clean. Let cool completely before frosting.

Step 7
In the bowl of an electric mixer, beat all frosting ingredients until smooth and creamy. Frost cupcakes. Garnish with lemon zest. Serve and enjoy!

Tip

• Use chewy candies like starburst to make edible citrus-shaped cupcake toppers.

How to Make Coconut Shrimp

Howtojetro.blogspot.com | How to Make Coconut Shrimp - Craving coconut shrimp, but don't feel like leaving the house? Good news! You can make your own coconut shrimp right at home, using a few simple ingredients, many of them pantry staples. You'll also need oil for frying and a deep, heavy pan to fry them.

Things You'll Need
1. Heavy-bottomed frying pan
2. 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (Japanese breadcrumbs)
3. 3/4 cup unsweetened finely shredded coconut
4. 3 teaspoons lime zest
5. 1 teaspoon salt
6. 1 teaspoon curry powder
7. 1/4 teaspoon ground chipotle powder
8. 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
9. 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
10. 24 uncooked large shrimp, peeled and deveined; tails left intact
11. Canola, vegetable, or peanut oil (for frying)

Step 1
Peel and devein shrimp, but leave the tails on. Place prepared shrimp on a large plate.

Step 2
In a large bowl combine the panko, coconut, lime, and spices; mix well.

Step 3
Beat the eggs together in a small bowl.

Step 4
Add shrimp to a large bowl and mix with the beaten eggs; toss to coat.

Step 5
One at a time, remove shrimp from beaten eggs and coat well in panko-coconut mixture.

Step 6
Place enough oil into a large, heavy bottomed skillet that it reaches 1/4 inch deep; heat over medium-high heat. You'll know when the oil is ready when it starts to "shimmer" or when a thermometer reaches 360 degrees F. Once sufficiently hot, add shrimp to the skillet - a few at a time - and cook until golden brown; about 2 minutes per side. Transfer to paper towels to soak up any excess grease.
Arrange shrimp on platter and serve warm.

Tip

• Get creative by serving these delicious snacks with a variety of dipping sauces, like sweet chili sauce, sriracha with mayonnaise, or mustard with fruit preserves.