Feed Chickens Organically

If you raise your own chickens for eggs and poultry meat and to get rid of bugs around crops, it is understandable if you prefer to feed them organically. This involves not giving them any sort of hormones, preservatives or antibiotics. Creating your own organic chicken feed is simple but may become expensive after awhile, depending on how many chickens you are raising.

Instructions

1. Mix equal parts ground corn and roasted soy in a large container (the amount depends on how much you wish to make for your chickens). Make sure that all the ingredients you are using are organic, whether you are growing them on your own or purchasing them.

2. Add 1 cup of ground wheat to every 4 cups of corn and soy.

3. Add 1 1/2 cups of sunflower seeds to every 5 cups of combined corn, soy and wheat.

4. Add 1/4 cup salt and 1/3 cup dried peas to every 5 cups of the mixture.

5. Mix the organic chicken feed together thoroughly.

6. Add just enough water to make it slightly mushy if desired. Some people choose to feed their chickens with wet food over dry food. If you prefer dry food, keep the organic feed how it is and feed the chickens accordingly.

Tags: every cups, chicken feed, organic chicken, organic chicken feed, your chickens

Start A Homebased Catering Business

Catering Business

There is an element of risk in starting a home-based business. Starting a Catering Business is no exception. Follow the steps laid out here, which provide information and knowledge of starting a home-based catering business, to help eliminate some of the risk and provide you a good start to a successful Catering business.

Instructions

1. Obtain A Catering License

To obtain a home-based catering license contact, via Internet or by phone, apply to your local Health Department. The Health Department will inspect your business to ensure it meets your State's food sanitation requirements.

2. Draft Your Catering Business Plan and Determine Your Audience

Developing a business plan, and doing thorough catering business research, will aid you in getting a Small Business loan. This document will also be used as your road map to guide you from Small Business start-up to a successful home-based catering business.

This document will -

• determine your type of business, i.e. cakes, receptions, seated dinners, box lunches, picnics, hors d'oeuvres, or dessert.

• pinpoint the type of food you will serve.

• analyze your market to determine if your business will serve a need presently unmet in the market.

• assist in identifying your target audience/customers.

• help you understand who your competition is.

• and much, much more.

3. Understand Your Start-up Costs For This Home-Based Catering Business

Renting items, to keep initial costs of your Catering Business to a minimum, is a good way to begin your home-based Catering business. This will give you time to:

1) Build a reputation for yourself and your small business;

2) generate capital for your own catering items and

3) allows you a chance to evaluate how much time and money you will need to invest into expanding your catering business and how running a home-based catering business impacts your family.

4. Develop A Menu For Your Catering Business

The factors for planning a catering menu include the type of event, time of event, number of people that will be served, equipment needed and if any extra staff will be needed.

The menu template you work off of should include the basics with alternatives so the customer has choices. Based on the findings of your small business marketing plan, if there are potential customers whose traditions call for certain foods have those choices available. When you show a balance in color, texture, shape, size, flavor, cooking methods your potential customer will respect you as a professional Catering business.

5. Write Contractual Features For Starting A Catering Business

When you meet with your potential customers provide them with an information packet that includes sample menus and prices, other services you provide, and have a portfolio of pictures that shows how food was presented at different occasions.

Remember that when you start your catering business, most likely, your

first customers will be friends and/or family. Keep in mind that 'friends are friends' and 'business is business'. Any wise Small Business Owner will have a contract drafted, that has been reviewed by an Attorney, which will detail the items for the event with a place to be approved and signed by the Customer and yourself.

6. Purchase Insurance For A Home-Based Catering Business

Insurance protects you from the unexpected and is the necessary evil for any business. Small Business insurance includes product and personal liability, coverage on the space in your home used for the business, all equipment used for the business, vehicle used for the business, and worker's compensation for any employees.

7. Be Aware of Food Safety for Your Catering Business

Salmonella, Campylobacter and E-coli are not words you, as a home-based catering business, would like hear in the same sentence with your Catering business name. To keep your business doors open you need ensure the production of safe food. Food borne illness will be minimized if you and your employees follow safe food handling practices including the basics of washing your hands to the appropriate temperature settings for storage and presentation of your feast.

8. Price your Service For Profit

The pricing formula a home-based catering business should follow is 'Materials + Overhead + Labor + Profit = Price'. That said you will also need to be mindful of what your competitors are charging and determine if you will charge the same as your competition, charge more than your competition or charge less than your competition. Remember to factor in any special service that you provide that your competition does not and charge appropriately. All of this statistical information should have been gathered during the research phase of drafting your Business Plan.

Tags: home-based catering business, your competition, Catering Business, catering business, home-based catering, home-based catering, used business

Use A Convection Oven

Dinner's ready sooner when cooking with the convection setting.

If you're not using your convection oven, or the convection setting on a standard oven, you're missing out. In a convection oven, food is cooked by hot air that is circulated by fans instead of by radiant heat like a standard oven uses. You won't notice a difference in the flavors of foods cooked in a convection oven versus in a standard oven, but a convection oven cooks food more evenly and more quickly - using less energy - than a standard oven does. This is one case in which blowing a lot of hot air is a good thing. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Prepare food for cooking. Pick baking dishes with low sides to allow the air to circulate freely over the food. Stick your pans in the oven before putting food in them to check they'll fit; any pan you use should have two inches of free space between it and any oven wall. Use a dark, dull aluminum or steel pan if you're cooking something that you want well browned; pick shiny pans for less browning. You may also use glass dishes if you wish.

2. Arrange the racks in the oven so that each pan will have at least two inches of clearance between it and the pan above or below it. If you're only cooking one pan of food, place the rack in the center of the oven.

3. Heat the oven to the temperature prescribed in your chosen recipe. Follow your oven's instruction manual if you're unsure use its convection setting.

4. Place the pan in the oven once the oven is done preheating. Leave the pan uncovered. Using a lid or even placing foil on top will prevent the hot air from reaching the food.

5. Set a timer for 25 percent less time than your recipe calls for. Some cooking experts recommend either reducing the oven temperature or the cooking time, but reducing both is a smart idea when you're getting the hang of cooking in a convection oven.

6. Check the food for doneness when the timer goes off. Use an instant-read meat thermometer to check meat; according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, poultry needs to have an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit, ground meats need to be cooked to at least 160 degrees and other meats need to be 145 degrees in order to be safe. Keep in mind, however, that meat continues to cook after it's removed from the oven, a principle called "residual" or "carryover cooking." Small roasts or chickens can increase as much as 5 to 10 degrees in the 15 minutes after you remove them from heat; for best results, remove them a little early, tent them with foil and continue checking the food every minute or two until they reach the proper temperature.

7. Write a note on the recipe you used, recording the exact time it took for the dish to be fully cooked using the convection setting. These notes will help you time things perfectly the next time around.

Tags: convection oven, convection setting, standard oven, least degrees, meats need, oven convection, oven temperature

Make Compost Soil At Home

Dead leaves make up the bulk of many compost bins.

Amending your garden beds becomes expensive if you depend on purchased compost to add drainage and organic matter to the garden. Instead, reuse your yard and garden waste to create your own compost soil for the garden. Composting takes the organic waste from your yard, such as leaves and grass clippings, along with vegetable waste from the kitchen, and turns it into a soil amendment that is rich in nutrients for your garden plants. Composting isn't difficult, and starting a pile now ensures that you'll have plenty of compost ready come next gardening season. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Lay down a 3-to-4-inch layer of chopped up twigs or other coarse material over 4-by-4-foot area, or larger. This layer provides air circulation beneath the compost pile.

2. Place a 6-inch layer of dead leaves or dead plant material on top of the twigs. Top this with a 2-inch layer of grass clippings or green yard waste. The dead leaves provide carbon to the pile, while the green waste provides nitrogen. Both are necessary for successful composting.

3. Place a shovel-full of garden soil on top the pile to provide natural microorganisms to the pile, which jump-starts the composting process. Alternately, use a purchased compost starter.

4. Mix the layers together with a garden fork, and then water the pile until it is as damp as a wrung out sponge. Add more layers as necessary until the pile is between 3 and 4 feet high, mixing and watering as you go.

5. Scoop out a depression in the center top of the pile. This collects rain water, which ensures that the pile remains damp and ensures even composting.

6. Turn the pile every four weeks with a garden fork. Turn the outside of the pile to the inside and over the materials on the inside.

7. Use the compost once all the material in the pile is broken down and resembles a rich, dark soil. This takes approximately three to six months if you turn the pile monthly.

Tags: dead leaves, ensures that, garden fork, grass clippings, purchased compost, waste from, with garden

Cook Turkey In An Electric Smoker

Smoked turkey ready to be carved.

Price a smoked turkey at that famous ham store, and the sticker shock will have you quickly reconsidering your menu. So, try smoking a turkey at home instead. Turkeys can be smoked faster than many cuts of meat, and an electric smoker makes them safe and simple to prepare.

Keep in mind, however, that turkey and other kinds of poultry are especially hospitable to bacteria that causes food-borne illnesses. Smokers cook at a low slow heat, and a typical Thanksgiving-size turkey of 20 lbs. or more can stay in the dangerous temperature range of 40 to 120 degrees long enough to grow harmful bacteria. For this reason, many grill masters recommend smoking turkeys no larger than 12 pounds. They cook faster and are safer than large turkeys. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

Preparation

1. Make the seasoning paste by blending the paprika, salt, pepper, poultry seasoning, onion, garlic and ginger in a small bowl This paste uses ¼ cup olive oil, 2 tbsp. sweet paprika, 2 tsp. kosher salt flakes, 2 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, 1 tsp. poultry seasoning, 1 tbsp. onion powder, 2 tbsp. garlic powder and 1 tsp. ground ginger. Cover the mixture with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to use.

2. Make the barbecue sauce by combining 1 cup ketchup, 1/4 cup apple juice, 1/4 cup tamari soy sauce, 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, 1 small apple, peeled and grated, 1/2 small onion, grated, ½ small bell pepper, grated, 1 tsp. garlic powder, 1 tsp. freshly ground black pepper, ½ tsp. poultry seasoning in a medium sauce pan. Simmer the mixture for 15 minutes. Remove it from the heat. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

3. Wash your hands thoroughly before handling the turkey.

4. Take the turkey out of its wrappings about 9 hours before serving time. Remove the turkey neck and giblets and discard. Rinse the turkey inside and out, and pat dry with paper towels. Rub the turkey with the seasoning paste, especially under the skin. After the bird is coated with paste, pin the wing tips with tooth picks to the body and pin the neck flap underneath the body. Leave the drum sticks loose to ensure proper cooking. Cover the turkey with plastic wrap and return to the refrigerator and let it marinate in the seasoning paste for 2 hours.

5. Soak the hickory chips in a pan of water for 30 minutes. How much you will need depends on the size and capacity of your electric smoker. Follow the manufacturer's recommendation.

6. Prepare the electric smoker 7 ½ hours before you want to serve. Start by reading all the instructions that came with your model. Drain the soaked hickory chips and load them into the basket of your smoker. Fill the smoker's water pan. Plug in the smoker and set the temperature to 225 degrees if your model has a temperature control feature.

7. Take the turkey out of the refrigerator, unwrap it, and insert the meat thermometer into one of the drum sticks, avoiding the bones.

Cooking

8. Place the turkey into the smoker so you can see the meat thermometer when the door is open. Turkeys take about 30 minutes per pound in a 225-degree environment. For a 10-lb. turkey, it will take about 5 hours to reach an internal temperature of 165.

9. Put more hickory chips on to soak. Check the smoker occasionally and refill the water pan and chips as needed. The more often you check, however, the more heat you will lose and the longer it will take to cook the meat. Follow the manufacturer's directions and suggestions for best results.

10. Brush the apple barbecue sauce onto the turkey during the last 15 minutes of smoking.

11. Remove the turkey carefully from the smoker when it has reached an internal temperature of 165 degrees. Cover the turkey with foil and allow it to rest at room temperature for 15 minutes before carving. Serve with the remaining sauce and the side dishes of your choice.

Tags: hickory chips, pepper poultry, pepper poultry seasoning, poultry seasoning, seasoning paste, turkey with, about hours

Format A Cookbook

Arrange your cookbook as artfully as these ingredients.

Even in an age when the Internet delivers recipes instantly with the touch of your fingers, cookbooks deliver a certain homey-ness and personal touch. When assembling your own collection of personally-vetted recipes, the choice of organize them into an easy-to-navigate order is essential for readability. Organize your cookbook according to types of recipes you have and their connecting theme.

Instructions

1. Make a list of all the recipes you've decided to include, using short titles of each dish. Try to include them all on a single page, using multiple columns if need be, so that you can look at the page and see all of the recipes at once.

2. Determine a theme for your cookbook, if you have not done so. Look at the recipes you want to include and see if they have any obvious connection or commonality that you can draw, such as ethnicity (or a mix of ethnicities), ingredients, methods of cooking, or difficulty of cooking. If you can't find an obvious theme, come up with your own central reason for including the recipes related to your journey as a cook, such as recipes your mother taught you or recipes you learned for your family. Your theme will help you determine arrange your recipes.

3. Format your recipes. Organize them with a short introduction (in which you describe the dish to be cooked), followed by a list of the ingredients and items needed for the recipe, followed by step-by-step instructions. Do this with every recipe.

4. Divide the recipes into categories. The most common categories for cookbooks are based on where the food fits into a meal, giving one category each for things like appetizers, soups, salads, main dishes, side dishes and desserts. You might also arrange the recipes by which meal the foods are best for (i.e., breakfast, lunch or dinner), or by difficulty level.

5. Place the recipes in order within the categories. This order can be whatever you like, but if you have quite a few recipes in each category, consider placing them in alphabetical order to make them easy to find.

6. Determine an order for the categories. If using parts of a meal as categories, place them in the order in which they're eaten: appetizer, soup, salad, side dish, main dish and dessert. If using other types of categories, put them in whatever order you like.

Tags: your cookbook, your recipes

Decorating Ideas With Fresh Cranberries

Cranberries and candles are a beautifully decorative mix.

When you think of cranberries, do you think delicious or decorative? You already know cranberries are tasty for eating, but they can be attractive decorating tools as well. Cranberries are often used in winter holiday d cor. But since there's nothing specifically festive about them, they can be used year-round. Prep the cranberries properly, then use them wherever you want a splash of style. Does this Spark an idea?

Preparing Cranberries for Use

Getting cranberries ready for decorative use is simple. Rinse them well in cool water and dry. You can also freeze the cranberries if you'll need them to last longer in a centerpiece. When it's time to set them up, remove them from the freezer and style them as desired. A fun idea is to put some cranberries and water into an ice tray and freeze them. The cranberry cubes can be used in ice buckets to cool bottles of champagne or even juice.

Centerpiece Ideas

Centerpieces are the most obvious way to incorporate cranberries into the home. You may have already had some experience putting together cranberry arrangements for the holidays, but extend the trend into the year. Find a glass bowl and a skinny hurricane vase. Place the vase in the middle of the bowl. Fill the bowl with cranberries and put a candle in the hurricane vase. When lit, this centerpiece will lend a warm ambiance to your dinner table.

Add cranberries into the water of a vase of flowers. The cranberries will bring another color to the arrangement. They'll also cover those not-so-attractive stems.

Another idea is to place a beautiful wreath of branches around a bowl. Fill the bowl with cranberries, and stick some twigs in here and there. The result is a natural-looking, unexpected arrangement for your coffee table.

Other Clever Arrangements

You can make a lot of surprisingly chic art pieces with fresh cranberries. Insert toothpicks into cranberries and stick them into foam spheres from the craft store. Use this tip with any shape of foam. You can find pre-made foam topiaries at some craft stores. There are also letters, numbers or simple rectangles. Experiment with using white and red cranberries to make different patterns on your foam shapes. Making a striped pattern (two rows of red cranberries, two rows of white cranberries) looks like a lot of effort, but it takes no more time than if you stuck to a single-color scheme.

Make It Up as You Go

Cranberries are a cheap and efficient way to add some punch into your space. You don't need to spend money on new pillows or drapery for some color. Toss some cranberries in wherever you'd put stones or glass beads or use them as more sculptural pieces. They give your rooms a touch of nature and elegance. Just remember that cranberries are fruit, so they spoil. Switch them out with new ones if you notice they're starting to go bad. The cost of replacing them will still be less than designer pieces from a boutique, and the look is equally gorgeous.

Tags: bowl Fill, bowl Fill bowl, bowl with, bowl with cranberries, cranberries into

Substitute Light Corn Syrup In A Recipe For Corn Allergies

Many substitutes like honey or agave nectar are available for corn syrup.

Cheaper than sugar and just as versatile, corn syrup provides baked goods and other foods with a smooth texture, while also working to prevent crystallization in recipes for candy and fruit preserves. Corn syrup is also less sweet than sugar, reduces fat in a recipe, and leaves the finished product with no added flavor, unlike honey or molasses. However, those with a corn allergy may have an aversion to the sweetener as it is derived from corn starch. Fortunately, other everyday household ingredients can be used to create a corn syrup substitute without sacrificing flavor. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

Substituting 1 cup corn syrup for sugar

1. Combine the sugar and water in the saucepan and set over medium heat.

2. Bring the mixture to a boil and allow to boil for one minute or until the sugar is completely dissolved.

3. Allow the mixture to cool. Place the mixture in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator between uses.

Other Substitutions

4. Replace the corn syrup in your recipe, measure for measure, with honey or maple syrup. Honey and maple syrup are slightly sweeter than corn syrup and will also lend their respective flavors to the finished product.

5. Substitute the corn syrup, measure for measure, with treacle. Treacle or golden syrup, is a refined sugar syrup and can be used to replace corn syrup measure for measure. It is typically amber in color, with an appearance and viscosity of honey.

6. Exchange corn syrup, measure for measure, for brown rice syrup. In the same way that corn syrup is made from corn starch, brown rice syrup is made of rice starch. It is brown in color and lends a distinct flavor to the finished product.

7. Replace corn syrup with agave nectar by cutting the measurment of agave in half and increasing the other liquids in the recipe by 1/3 cup. A low-fat, organic option, agave nectar is derived from the sap of the agave plant and has a flavor much like maple syrup.

Tags: corn syrup, measure measure, agave nectar, corn syrup measure, finished product, maple syrup

Sweeten Up Without Sugar

Natural products can be bought to sweeten your food and drink

With obesity becoming a big problem in the U.S. and many other parts of the world, any way to save calories is a good thing. Sugar has a high calorie content and can be found in many processed foods. It is best to check the ingredients for the amount of sugar in any food you buy. You can eat healthier by using natural products to sweeten your food and drink. There are also less calorific artificial sweeteners available. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Buy artificial sweetener instead of sugar. This has a much lower calorie content and can be used in cooking, drinks and on cereals. It can be bought in tablet form or granulated, although it is much finer than sugar.

2. Use honey as an alternative sweetener. It is a natural and healthy way to sweeten food and can be used for cooking, on cereals and in some drinks. Honey tends to be much sweeter than sugar so you will use less of it. However, honey has benefits such as vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

3. Pour real maple syrup on your food as a sweetener. This is twice as sweet as sugar, but contains magnesium and zinc. It can be used on food and mixed with some drinks. This originates from sugar maple trees.

4. Stir agave nectar into your drinks to sweeten them. This is a fructose syrup that is slightly thinner than honey. This sweetener is effective if you are diabetic as it has a low glycemic index, which measures the effects of carbohydrates on blood sugar levels.

5. Trickle some molasses, a by product of the sugar-refining process, onto your food. It is a dark rich syrup with a strong flavor. Molasses contains iron, calcium and some B vitamins. It is not as sweet as sugar, but it is much healthier.

Tags: your food, calorie content, food drink, some drinks, sweet sugar, sweeten your

Make Turkey Jerky In A Dehydrator

Do your kids like jerky as a snack after school? Or do you take it with you when you go backpacking? Jerky is a convenient, high-protein snack to have on hand all the time.

If you don't like beef jerky or are trying to cut back on red meat, you can make tasty turkey jerky in your dehydrator. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

Making Turkey Jerky

1. Remove the skin, bones and all visible fat from the turkey.

2. Slice the turkey about 1/8-inch thick with the grain of the meat.

3. Mix Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce and spices in a large bowl or zip closure bag.

4. Add the meat and mix well.

5. Let it marinate for four to six hours or overnight in the refrigerator. Mix the meat and marinade from time to time to make sure the meat gets well marinated.

6. Drain the meat well, and pat it dry. You want it to be as dry as possible when it goes into the dehydrator.

7. Lay the meat on the dehydrator racks in a single layer, following the manufacturer's instructions.

8. Dehydrate for the time recommended in your manufacturer's instructions. If you've lost the instructions, you might be able to find them online. The jerky is done when it is firm and dry. It should not be spongy. If it is brittle and breaks easily, it is overdone.

Tags: manufacturer instructions, meat well, Turkey Jerky

Make Hardboiled Eggs Taste Good

Deviled eggs make a great appetizer for parties and gatherings.

Hard-boiled eggs are one of the best sources of nonmeat protein that you can get. While there are a lot of benefits to hard-boiled eggs, including their portability and ease of preparation, many people find the flavor of plain eggs boring. Deviling your eggs is one way to spice them up. Deviled eggs are simple enough to serve for lunch and elegant enough to bring as an appetizer to a party. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Hard-boil the eggs and allow them to cool completely in the refrigerator.

2. Peel the eggs. Tap both sides of the egg on the counter, and then peel under running water. Removing the shells under running water helps to remove them without harming the egg whites.

3. Halve the eggs lengthwise. Scoop the yolks out and place them in a large bowl. Place the whites on a large plate and set aside.

4. Mash the yolks with a fork. Stir in the mayonnaise, pickle relish, vinegar and mustard. Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir until thoroughly combined.

5. Spoon the yolk mixture back into the halved egg whites. Sprinkle with paprika and serve. If you have leftovers, store covered in the refrigerator.

Tags: Deviled eggs, running water, under running, under running water

Cool Men'S Gifts For Car Lovers

Men who love cars appreciate cool car gifts.

Shopping for gifts for men can be frustrating, especially if you're a woman who easily runs short on ideas. Fortunately, a wide range of cool gifts exist for men who love cars, sports, the outdoors and other masculine hobbies. Brainstorming on some cool car gifts is one way to come up with excellent ideas for pleasing a special man in your life.

Books Galore and More

Car manuals interest men who love cars and auto-mechanic topics.

Some people give and receive gifts of encyclopedias and other reference book sets. For a car lover, a collection of car guides and books not only gives him plenty of reading material, but also gives him the needed learning resources for working-on and improving vehicles. Haynes and Chilton manuals are popular and trusted sources of information, and come in several volumes for a seemingly endless variety of vehicle models and makes. Presenting car books and manuals, wrapped, can be an educational gift as well as satisfying his love for all things automotive.

A Fun Day Out

Raceways are like amusement parks to men who love gasoline and loud engines.

A themed day out is a cool way to express your feelings to a man in your life who loves cars. This is especially true if you are near a raceway or car show of sorts. The day out can begin with presenting a gift that only hints at what lies in store for the rest of the day. This gift, or gifts, can be small and inexpensive such as a drag-racing jersey for him to wear or even a key chain that symbolizes his favorite model of car or genre of car design. The final event, following a man-pleasing meal of steak or his favorite food, can be tickets to an antique car show for an afternoon of strolling together to view the different automobiles. Alternatively, a few hours at your local raceway doesn't cost much and is still enjoyable as part of your fun day out.

Expensive Fun

Leasing a Ferrari or other sports car for a weekend will make any man smile.

For those who have a large budget, cool car gifts can become far more extravagant than a day out at a car show. Leasing his dream-car for a weekend not only gives you an opportunity to take a two day scenic drive, but it also allows him to live out his dreams in the car he loves. For example, the website Automotive shares a wide range of resources and deals for finding different types of cars for short-term lease. Whether he enjoys American muscle or luxury European sedans, a weekend lease is sure to please even the most discerning recipient.

Tags: cool gifts, love cars, only gives, wide range, your life

Rabenhorst Organic Wheatgrass

Rabenhorst organic wheatgrass is used as a breakfast cocktail.

Rabenhorst Organic Wheatgrass is a ready-made, organic, green drink that contains fruits and herbs. The beverage is valued in Europe for its nutritional content and is consumed primarily as a breakfast cocktail. Does this Spark an idea?

Ingredients

Rabenhorst Organic Wheatgrass is 45 percent wheatgrass juice. It also contains green tea extract, apple juice, agave syrup, lemon juice and spirulina. The ingredients are organic.

Nutritional Benefits

According to the manufacturer, the health benefits of Rabenhorst Organic Wheatgrass include blood pressure stabilization and improvement in blood-sugar disorders. The beverage is also touted for its use in detoxifying the liver, correcting skin problems and building the immune system. A 100 ml serving contains 40 calories.

Origin

Rabenhorst Organic Wheatgrass is a product of the Haus Rabenhorst company in Germany. The product is distributed primarily in Europe but can be purchased online from organic food stores.

Company History

The Haus Rabenhorst company, a family-owned business that began as a vineyard in 1805, pasteurized and marketed grape juice as a nonalcoholic wine. The company later became established as a manufacturer of high quality, natural juices. It produces and markets approximately 7 million liters of pure juice yearly.

Tags: Organic Wheatgrass, Rabenhorst Organic, Rabenhorst Organic Wheatgrass, breakfast cocktail, Haus Rabenhorst

Create Sacred Altars

An altar can be as ornate as imaginable.

A sacred altar expresses your private religious or spiritual beliefs and gives you a place to focus your mental and physical being on the divine as you accept that reality. Make a sacred altar a site where you go for prayer and reflection. Surround your spiritual reflection space with items recalling your central beliefs and for which you hold deep respect, awe and reverence. Create a sacred area that resonates from your inner self with simplicity and beauty.

Instructions

1. Pray for guidance to make a fitting altar.

Pray and meditate before establishing your altar. Read from sacred literature, such as the Bible or another beloved text. Ask God or your idea of the divine to guide you as you create a space consecrated to the object of your faith.

2. Use cushions to sit before your altar.

Set a clean small table in a quiet room or corner of your home. Place a chair at a conventional table or arrange cushions in front of a low table like a coffee table no longer in use.

3. Angels offer a soothing presence.

Adorn the table with images of religious or spiritual figures. Place, for example, a crystal angel on the altar if you believe in the power of angels.

4. Accompany prayer with soft candlelight.

Set a candle on the table to light during your prayer and meditation periods. Place an incense holder and your favorite incense to add an aromatic focus to your altar. Place prayer beads on the table.

5. Consecrate your finished altar. Pray for the commitment to return to the altar daily to keep your faith focused and pure. Ask the divine to be present and to bless your efforts so you can spread those blessings to all you encounter.

Tags: your altar, altar Pray, focus your, religious spiritual, sacred altar, your faith

Organic Vegetables Vs Chemically Grown Vegetables Prices

Organic and conventional veggies both have pros and cons.

Organic vegetables are almost always more expensive than their conventionally grown counterparts. Generally speaking, organic farming involves more intensive labor practices and lower yields, which collaborate to raise the overall price of the product. Does this Spark an idea?

Conventional Farming Practices

Crop losses due to insect and weed pests are among the primary reasons for reduced crop yields. Conventional farming employs the use of chemical pesticides and herbicides to kill these crop threats.

Organic Farming Practices

Organic farming practices encourage the presence of beneficial insects, which act as natural pest controls; however, crop losses are sometimes significant. Weeds are also eliminated manually, which further increases labor costs.

Considerations

Because insects can, over time, become resistant to particular pesticides, conventional growers must constantly keep abreast of new chemical products. This may also lead to some price fluctuation of chemically grown vegetables.

Significance

According to a 2008 USDA report on foreign demand for organic produce, a kilogram of conventionally grown bell peppers was 75 cents. By contrast, a kilo of organically grown peppers cost $2.90.

Benefits of Organic Produce

Despite the higher cost, proponents of organic vegetables and produce cite the many intangible benefits of organic farming practices. Some advantages include better soil condition over time, reduction of plant pathogens and fewer risks to people via ingestion of chemical pest controls.

Tags: conventionally grown, Farming Practices, farming practices, over time, pest controls

Go To Summer School In Perugia Italy

Universita Per Stranieri is located in the medieval town of Perugia, Italy. Translates, it means "University for Foreigners." People from all parts of the world come to this university to learn the Italian language. if you take the July program, you will be immersed in language study for five days a week. Since there will be many nationalities within your class, the instructor will not speak English. However, this is the fastest way to learn the language.

Instructions

Enrolling in a Program at Universita Per Stranieri

1. Go to the Universita Per Stranieri website: http://www.unistrapg.it/english/

2. Fill out an application on this page: http://www.unistrapg.it/english/prospectus/language_culture/enrolment.php

3. Arrange for lodging by going to the student living website: http://www.studentliving.eu/

4. Fly to Rome. Spend a day or so enjoying the city, then take the train to Perrugia.

5. Within 8 days of arrival in Italy, be ready to apply for a official Permit of Stay

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Luggage Tags That Are Cruelty Free

Cruelty-free products are products that have not been tested on animals nor have they used animal products during the production of items. Many consumers and companies recognize the importance of maintaining our natural environment through using cruelty-free products and the range of cruelty-free products has grown considerably. Travel accessories are important for the comfort and ease of travel and cruelty-free luggage tags let travelers feel better about their accessory choices.

Fluff Luggage Tags

The cruelty-free luggage tags by Fluff at the Alternative Outfitters Vegan Boutique are made with faux leather with appliqu and embroidery details. These tags are bright and funky so they are easily visible at baggage claim areas. All of the designs are in the shape of different animals such as rabbits, elephants and dragons. Each tag features a clear plastic back for displaying your contact information on a card, and an adjustable bucket strap. At a price of only $14, it's affordable and fun to be animal friendly.

Chroma Luggage Tags

Handmade Expressions makes its Chroma Luggage Tags from cruelty-free leather, which means the leather has come from an animal that died of natural causes. These tags resemble the more traditional style of luggage tags, with their rectangular shape and the information card tucked away beneath a flap on the front.

The three different styles of tags to choose from are a lush green background with butterflies, a soft blue backgroun with turquoise circles and an orange background with red and black leaves. Attaching these tags to your luggage is easy with the attached mini-belt with metallic buckle. The Chroma Luggage Tags are a vibrant cruelty-free alternative for differentiating your luggage in the airport.

Espe Luggage Tags

Espe is a company conceived in Toronto, Canada, that produces products designed from a variety of innovative and cruelty-free fabric and materials. Espe makes the luggage tags from polyurethane and durable synthetic leather and embroiders them with fun, fashionable designs. By using synthetic leather as opposed to real, it spares the lives of animals and has no toxins from leather tanning released into the environment. Espe products are available in various stores across North America and worldwide or online.

Tags: Chroma Luggage, Chroma Luggage Tags, background with, cruelty-free luggage, cruelty-free luggage tags

Remove Rust From Hammers

I remember the first time my father let me open his huge toolbox in the basement. He lifted the top tray out and I was amazed by the array of hammers he had hidden in there. There were small petite hammers as well as extremely large hammers. All had wooden handles, and all were covered with rust. They also smelled like dirty sweat socks. I asked my father why they were so rusty. He told me that was just what happened to hammers as they aged. I had no idea that a little elbow grease and a couple of household products could have them looking as good as new. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Place all rusted hammers head-first into a glass jar.

2. Pour enough vinegar into the jar to submerge all the rusted hammer heads.

3. Let stand for 24 hours.

4. Remove hammers from the vinegar. Rinse the hammer heads with water. Dry heads with rag.

5. Scrub any remaining rust off with a wire brush or a crumpled ball of aluminum foil.

6. Re-rinse off the hammer heads. Dry heads with rag.

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Differences In Spelt & Wheat

Spelt and wheat are highly nutritious.

Spelt and wheat are whole grains that can be used to make a wide variety of foods. They are both nutritious and can be found in health food stores. These grains are a primary staple of people in almost every country, with wheat being more popular than spelt. Add this to my Recipe Box.

What is Spelt?

Spelt has been around long before wheat hybrids. It is an ancient grain that has a nut-like flavor. It is a cousin to wheat. Spelt is not seasonal and can be found at health food stores. Spelt can be purchased as spelt flour or as a whole grain. It can be used in the same ways as wheat and is especially good for making breads and pastas. In addition, spelt can be used in its whole grain form and cooked like rice.

Benefits of Spelt

Many people who are intolerant to wheat can eat spelt and spelt products without any health issues. Spelt is considered a whole grain and contains manganese, copper, vitamin B2, niacin, and thiamin. Eating products made from spelt is helpful for people who suffer from diabetes, migraine headaches and atherosclerosis, due to the combination of nutrients. Since spelt is a whole grain, it is also helpful in terms of reducing high blood pressure and the risk of heart attack. Spelt is also a good source of dietery fiber.

What is Wheat?

The wheat kernel is used to make wheat products. The kernel consists of the endosperm, of which white flour is made, bran, which is in whole wheat flour, and germ, which is also in wheat flour. Bran and wheat germ can be bought separately and can be added to a variety of foods such as yogurt and cereal. Wheat is a whole grain and is grown in 42 states in the United States, with Kansas producing the most.

Benefits of Wheat

Wheat contains more vitamins and minerals than spelt. In terms of vitamins, wheat contains B6, niacin, thiamin, folate, riboflavin and pantothenic acid. Wheat also contains minerals such as manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, selenium, zinc, copper, iron and potassium. Consuming wheat helps maintain a healthy metabolism, helps prevent gallstones and breast cancer, and helps reduce high blood pressure and the effects of diabetes. Wheat is used to make pastas and bread and can be used to help ferment alcoholic drinks.

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Flavor Wave Oven Vs Nuwave Oven

Hamburgers are one of the many foods that infrared countertop ovens can cook.

The Flavor Wave oven and the NuWave oven are both infrared counter-top ovens marketed as quick-cooking alternatives to conventional ovens. While compact, infrared counter-top ovens are advertised as capable of cooking entire meals---even whole poultry---in half the time a conventional oven takes. Though the appeal of both the Flavor Wave oven and the NuWave oven is comparable, the two products also have some notable design differences. Does this Spark an idea?

History

While the Flavor Wave oven emerged on the market in 2005, the NuWave oven comes from a longer line of infrared counter-top ovens, which the manufacturer, Hearthware, began making in 1997.

Dimensions

Both the Flavor Wave oven and the NuWave oven have roughly the same interior size, with the Flavor Wave measuring 12 inches in diameter and 6.6 inches deep and the NuWave oven 12 inches in diameter and 6.5 inches deep. The real difference is in the weight---the NuWave oven weighs just 9 pounds, while the Flavor Wave is much heavier at 21 pounds.

Heat Sources

Both the Flavor Wave oven and the NuWave oven use infrared heat to cook the food throughout. However, both also use two other types of heat, and they advertise the threefold heating mechanism of infrared, convection and conduction. The difference between the two ovens is the source of the conduction, or the direct heat source. The Flavor Wave oven uses halogen lamps, while the NuWave oven uses a sheath heater.

Temperature Limits

The Flavor Wave oven offers a higher maximum temperature of 500 degrees, while the NuWave oven reaches only 350 degrees. Both ovens, however, use temperature conversion charts to adapt different types of foods and translate recipes from conventional ovens to infrared.

Accessories

The Flavor Wave oven comes standard with multiple racks, tongs, a lid holder, a manual and a cookbook. The NuWave oven comes with cooking racks, a carrying case, an instructional DVD, a laminated cooking guide, a cookbook and recipe cards. While the NuWave oven's cooking guide and DVD are in both English and Spanish and the cookbook has some Spanish translations, Flavor Wave's manual and cookbook are English language only. Both ovens also have an optional extender ring that customers can purchase to increase the volume of the oven.

Promotions

Both infrared counter-top ovens offer some additional promotional items (for a shipping and handling fee) with the purchase of the oven. The Flavor Wave oven's promotional item is a 5-in-1 slicer, while the NuWave oven has two promotional items---a multipurpose blender and a pizza baking kit.

Tags: Flavor Wave, NuWave oven, Flavor Wave oven, Wave oven, counter-top ovens, infrared counter-top, infrared counter-top ovens

Start A Homebased Food Business In Arizona

Cooking utensils.

Starting a home-based food business in Arizona requires that you become a certified food handler and prepare the food you will serve or sell to the public in a certified food kitchen in Arizona. The FDA does not allow preparation of food for the public in private homes, so while the paperwork, marketing and sales can take place in a home office, the food has to be prepared in a licensed and inspected food facility.

Instructions

1. Take the classes required by the county in which you live to become a licensed food handler in Arizona. These classes are offered in person or online. Students must pass a test to work with food that will be served to the public. The course covers food safety, food storage, sanitation, personal sanitation, unsafe food and food-borne illnesses. The school where you take the classes will inform you of the nearest place to take the test, which you can schedule. Once you pass the test, you must display the food handler's license.

2. Select a licensed commercial kitchen where you can prepare the food you will be serving or selling. You may know a restaurant owner or have access to a facility that is licensed for commercial food service. You will have to pay hourly or by the day to use these kitchens. You may, once your business grows, opt to rent monthly or even lease the space for six or 12 months to save money.

3. Find a market for your products. You may have created the best salsa in the world or have found an ethnic food niche, but without a market or a distributor, your business may languish. Good marketing includes packaging, distribution and pricing studies. Developing a good business plan helps as well. Since you are creating food, you will have plenty of up-front expenses and may need the help of an investor to launch your business. Most financial partners want to see a business plan that you can use as a guideline to grow and develop your business.

4. Get a sales tax ID so you can access wholesale providers of food or join a discount warehouse club that sells to the public to reduce the costs associated with making the food. Depending on the laws in the city or county in which you live in Arizona, it is likely you will need a business license to distribute food.

Tags: your business, food handler, food will, business plan, certified food

Do A Brown Rice Fast

Brown rice

Rice, one of the oldest grains known to man, is traceable to Northern India as far back as 8000 BC. Brown rice differs from white rice in that the bran portion of the grain remains intact. This portion is desirable in a healthy diet. Traditionally, a brown rice fast consists of nothing but eating a gruel made from the grain for a period of 10 days in order to balance the body’s natural rhythms and build immunity to diseases, although there is no scientific research to back that claim. The following steps will show you the proper way to fast.

Instructions

1. Make an appointment to see your physician before starting a brown rice fast. Although this diet is popular with alternative health practitioners, your doctor may recommend that you shorten the duration of the diet or modify it by adding another food source.

2. Prepare to cook and eat nothing but brown rice for a period not to exceed 10 days. Often recommended to patients with digestive problems, the brown rice fast allows the stomach and intestinal tract to normalize while flushing toxins from the body.

3. Purchase short grain brown rice and distilled or purified water. Brown rice fast advocates suggest the short grain variety because it most closely resembles the genetic makeup of the ancient rice consumed by humans thousands of years ago.

4. Use a ratio of one part dry brown rice to one and a half parts of distilled water. Pour the water into a heavy saucepan and add a little salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil and stir in the brown rice. Reduce the heat until the rice mixture simmers and place tight-fitting lid on the pan.

5. Check the rice after 30 minutes to see if it is tender. If it’s still chewy, replace the lid and allow it to cook a few more minutes. Remove the pan from the heat when the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.

6. Increase the nutritional level of the rice by using a method suggested by the United Nations to boost enzyme levels. Rinse and soak the brown rice grains for up to 20 hours before you cook the rice. This way, the grain has a chance to germinate and the nutritional value increases substantially.

7. Drink plenty of purified water during a brown rice fast to keep your body hydrated.

Tags: brown rice, rice fast, brown rice fast, brown rice, purified water

Eat In Accordance With Levitical Law

The Bible offers guidance on eating according to Levitical law.

Eating in accordance with Levitical law, as instructed by the book of Leviticus in the Bible, can be a challenge due to the modern food supply. The book of Leviticus details primarily what meats a person can and cannot consume. The wide variety of meats that are available at most grocery stores and restaurants makes eating in accordance with Levitical law easier for the consumer. But the enticing dishes can also tempt him into straying from the rigid food laws prescribed by Leviticus.

Instructions

1. Review the biblical verses that pertain to Levitical law and specifically to eating, such as the book of Lev.11:1-30, which instructs on which animal meats are acceptable to eat.

2. Do not eat the meat from an animal that does not have "divided hoofs and is cleft-footed and chews the cud," as instructed by the book of Leviticus. This includes pigs, rabbits, raccoons or dogs, among others. Pork is the meat from this forbidden category that is consumed most often. Shopping in the kosher sections of grocery stores can help you to eat by the rule of Levitical law.

3. Eat only meat from an animal that has "divided hoofs and is cleft-footed and chews the cud," such as cow, deer, lamb and buffalo. When purchasing meat or ordering out, for example, purchase items that are completely made of beef products, such as all-beef hot dogs or all-beef burgers.

4. Eat only fish with fins and scales, such as bass, bluefish and salmon. Do not eat catfish, eel or marlin, since they do not have fins and scales. The fish that thrive in fresh water were considered clean and suitable to eat while those that are bottom dwellers, such as catfish, were considered unclean, according to RetakingAmerica.com. Catch your own fish, or inquire at a seafood department or restaurant as to the origin of the fish you are considering before ordering.

5. Refrain from eating animal fat and blood, according to Leviticus 7: 23-24 and 26-27. Remove fat from the clean meats prior to eating them and do not eat foods that use or are composed of animal fat, such as some types of gelatin. Become accustomed to reading labels at the grocery store if you are unsure. Avoid eating delicacies, such as blood sausage, that are often served in gourmet restaurants.

6. Eat only meat from birds that consume only plants and seeds, such as chicken, turkey, pheasant, grouse and quail. Do not eat ravens, ducks or vultures, or other birds of prey, since birds that eat meat were considered unclean. Inquire as to the treatment of the birds you buy, such as chicken, at the grocery store, or research the various brands, companies and distributors that sell the meat to ensure they are only fed plant products.

7. Refrain from eating lizards, turtles, frogs and flies, avoiding creatures and insects that are meat eaters or were known to carry diseases. You may eat crickets, grasshoppers and locusts instead, since they are plant eaters. Catch your own insect delicacies or purchase them at gourmet and specialty stores.

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Do A Raw Diet

Eating raw foods, including raw fruit and raw vegetables, is a great way to lose weight and eat healthily. However, going on a raw diet can be harder to do than you think. You will need to work hard to make sure that you stick to your raw diet by eating only raw foods, and that you learn to enjoy the tastes of the raw food diet, or sticking to your raw diet will be difficult and you will not lose as much weight on your raw diet as you want to.

Instructions

1. Understand the reasoning behind a raw food diet. Some scientists believe that heating raw fruits and raw vegetables past a certain temperature destroys some of their natural benefits by cooking them away. Because of this theory about raw food diets, many people choose to eat only or mostly raw foods.

2. Decide how strict your raw food diet will be. Some raw diets say that the dieter can eat no raw food at all, while others are less strict. You need to decide before you start out on your raw food diet just how strict your diet will be. Make sure that you set a mark that you are capable of reaching in your raw food diet so that you do not get discouraged and are able to stick to your raw food diet goals.

3. Get acquainted with raw food diet preparation. Just because you are sticking to raw foods does not mean that you have to eat plain raw vegetables all the time. Instead, consider using a dehydrator or a juicer to make your raw meals more interesting. Get acquainted with all kinds of raw meal production so that you can start making tasty raw meals immediately.

Tags: food diet, your diet, your food, your food diet, diet will

Make Organic Potting Soil

Incorporating organic potting soil into your landscape or garden is a natural and healthy way to grow plants free of chemicals. Preparing your own organic potting soil can save you money and greatly improve the quality of your plants. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Clear a work area outside where you will not be concerned about making a mess. Use a drop cloth or newspapers if working inside.

2. Gather your gardening supplies such as gloves and pots. You will also need a large container to mix and possibly store the organic potting soil.

3. Collect your organic potting soil ingredients. This should include coco fiber, expanded shale, organic compost or earthworm castings, and wheat bran.

4. Place equal parts of the organic potting soil ingredients into the container.

5. Mix these supplies together by hand until they are distributed evenly.

6. Use this mixture for potted plants, gardens and growing herbs. It can also be mixed in with the native soil in your organic flower beds.

Tags: organic potting soil, potting soil, organic potting, your organic, potting soil ingredients

Burger Cooking Times

Burgers on the grill

The time it takes to cook the perfect burger depends on several factors like personal preference, method of cooking and the type of meat you are using. Beef burgers don't need to be cooked well done to be safe to eat, some pink is okay as long as they are not rare. The following gives some guideline cook times for burgers, but they might vary depending on your stove top or grill temperature or the size of your patties. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Beef Burgers

Recommended meat for beef burgers is usually beef chuck between 80 and 90 percent lean. It is recommended to make your patties the same size so that you can just cut into one while cooking to check how done it is. Pink in the middle is okay, so just cook it as long as it takes to get to how well done you prefer your burgers. Safe internal temperature for beef is 160 degrees, the same for ground lamb or pork.

Turkey or Chicken Burgers

Turkey or chicken burgers should be done all the way through so those patties might need to be cooked an extra minute or so on each side. Just make sure to have similar sized patties and check one to ensure it is done all the way through. Safe internal temperature for turkey and ground chicken is 170 degrees.

Grill

If you are using a gas or charcoal grill make sure the grill is at high heat but not so hot it ignites the fat of the burgers. Then cook the burgers on the first side until they start to juice and are golden brown with some char marks on one side. For medium-sized beef patties, this should be around three to four minutes, for turkey around five. Then flip the patties and cook the same amount on the other side. At this point you can check either by cutting into one or by using a thermometer to see if they are done to your liking.

Pan Fry

If you are cooking your burgers in a sauté or fry pan, heat oil in the pan until it begins to shimmer. Then cook the patties approximately for the same amount of time as you would on the grill, but this depends on the heat of your stovetop so follow the same criteria. Check to make sure the patty is golden brown and starting to slightly char before flipping it. After approximately the same amount of time on the other side check the color inside or the temperature with a meat thermometer before removing the burgers. Total cook time for beef should be approximately six to eight minutes, or ten minutes for turkey or chicken burgers.

Tags: make sure, same amount, amount time, approximately same, approximately same amount, done through, golden brown

Fast Fundraiser Ideas

So, you don't have time to plan a giant fundraising effort, but for some reason or other, your organization needs money fast. Perhaps you want to provide relief after a natural disaster, perhaps the roof of your organization's headquarters needs replacing as soon as possible. Regardless, you need a few ideas for fast fundraising.

Internal Fundraising

Depending on the size of your organization, an internal call for donations may fill some or all of your fundraising needs, or at least may bridge the gap until you can pursue a more formalized, planned fundraising method. Depending on your fundraising target, you may have to contact members individually to discuss the needs of the organization. More likely is the idea of doing a group-wide call, either in person if in person meetings are common, such as with churches, or by email. You can also plan an internal event to raise funds.

Sales-based Fundraising

When turning to people outside of your organization for fundraising, selling something is a great idea. Selling baked goods, dinner plates or other food stuff is a great idea as the return on investment can be terrific, especially if members of the organization provide the food to sell. Garage sales are also a good idea, if members or the organization bring things to sell. Car washes are a traditional way to earn money. At Christmastime, you could also have members sing carols.

The problem is, many other groups will be doing the same types of things. If you aren't the scouts, why compete with their cookies? Try something new, like a "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory"-style lottery, with prizes inside some of the items. Or auction off personal assistants for a day of house cleaning services. Reversals are usually very entertaining, so having the higher-ups perform such tasks is a good idea. If recyclables have to be driven to a separate locations in your area, sell off three-month periods of recycled item pick ups.

If members of your organization are writers or are musically inclined, auction off songs and poems written about a person. If you have any artists, set up an easel in a public location and have them sketch likenesses for donations.

Whatever you decide, keep in mind that even though the money raised is for charity, people won't necessarily want to pay for something that is too inflated. Also, make sure that the name of your organization and the reason that the money is being raised is clear on some kind of sign.

Event-based Fundraising

Event-based fundraising not only raises a lot of money, but it is a good way to foster a team spirit among the members of your group and raise awareness in the community for your cause.

Everyone has heard of raffles and carnivals, but why not try something different? How about a Monopoly or board game tournament, a film festival, a poetry contest or poetry slam night, or a battle of the bands? How about a cook-off, a scavenger hunt, or a spelling bee? Instead of the usual marathon, try something different, like a pet and owner marathon or a crutches marathon. If you have a large space, rent a projector and create a drive-in movie theater.

Tags: your organization, good idea, great idea, members organization, members your

Make Candy Canes

Make Candy Canes

Candy canes are a delicious part of the Christmas season, but have you ever craved a candy cane in the middle of summer when it is impossible to find them? Well, here is an easy recipe to make candy canes any time of the year. You do not have to wait until December to enjoy these tasty treats. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Take a large, heavy bottomed sauce pan out of your cupboards and add the sugar, corn syrup, water and the cream of tartar and mix them very well. Be sure to completely stir the mixture until the sugar is completely dissolved.

2. Using a candy thermometer inserted into the mixture, cook the mixture without stirring until the candy thermometer reaches 265 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. Take the mixture away from the heat and drop in the peppermint extract. Get out another pan and take half of the mixture and place it into the second pan. Mix in the red food coloring to one of the mixtures.

4. Allow the candy to cool. While you are waiting grease 3 cookie sheets.

5. Put some butter on your hands and a spatula. Use the spatula that you have buttered to cut off a portion of one of the clear taffy. Enlist a friend or family to help you and have that person do the same thing with the red taffy after they have greased their own hands.

6. Pull and fold the pieces repeatedly on your cookie sheet until they appear glossy, then roll them into an 18 inch long coil.

7. Twist the head of the cane before setting it aside to cool on the third greased cookie sheet.

Tags: Candy Canes, candy thermometer, cookie sheet, Make Candy Canes

Barbara'S Shredded Wheat Cereal Benefits

Barbara's Shredded Wheat Cereal Benefits

Barbara's Bakery is a California-based company that produces natural cereals, snack bars, cookies and crackers made with whole grains and no artificial ingredients. Shredded wheat is one of 34 varieties of cereal made by Barbara's. Good Guide.com, an independent organization of scientists that rates products and companies on the basis of nutritional value and environmental and social responsibility, rated Barbara's Shredded Wheat No.1 for nutritional value out of 305 cold cereals. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Nothing Artificial

Barbara's Bakery uses no artificial colors, flavorings or preservatives in any of its products, including its shredded wheat. Some people have allergies to certain dyes or additives, while others prefer not to ingest artificial ingredients, even those approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for use in food.

No Sugar

Barbara's Shredded Wheat contains no sugar. This is important for people who seek to limit their intake of sugar because of concerns about blood sugar or because they're watching their calorie intake.

No Saturated Fat

A serving of Barbara's Shredded Wheat contains only 1 g of fat and no saturated fat. Saturated fat can contribute to heart disease by raising the level of cholesterol in the blood.

Low Cholesterol

Barbara's Shredded Wheat contains no cholesterol. Eating dietary cholesterol can contribute to elevated cholesterol in the blood and thus increase the chances of stroke or heart attack.

Whole Grain

This cereal is made with 100 percent whole wheat. According the US. Department of Agriculture, consuming three servings of whole grains a day can help you manage your weight.

High Fiber

Each serving of this cereal contains 5 g of dietary fiber, 20 percent of the recommended daily allowance of fiber for an adult. A high-fiber diet can reduce the risk of coronary disease by reducing blood cholesterol levels, according the U.S. Department of Agriculture's food pyramid guide.

Tags: Barbara Shredded, Barbara Shredded Wheat, Shredded Wheat, Shredded Wheat contains, Wheat contains

Prepare For Hanukkah

Preparing for Hanukkah is almost as exciting as the holiday itself. Serving holiday foods, playing dreidel and retelling the history of Hanukkah lifts spirits in the dark of winter and reminds Jews everywhere of their heritage. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Prepare your hanukkiah (the menorah specific to Hanukkah) for the upcoming holiday by cleaning off any residual wax and polishing it. Purchase a hanukkiah from any Jewish gift store or online if you do not have one.

2. Encourage your children to make their own hanukkiot (the plural of hanukkiah), to add their light to the family's.

3. Purchase special Hanukkah candles for your hanukkiot. If you have an oil-burning one, buy the appropriate oil and wicks.

4. Make sure you know the blessings to recite over the hanukkiah, and teach them to your children. Find the blessings by consulting Jewish Web sites, Jewish holiday books or your rabbi.

5. Cook Hanukkah favorites such as latkes (potato pancakes) with applesauce and sour cream, and sufganiot (jelly doughnuts).

6. Review the story and rituals of Hanukkah, and teach your children about the holiday's history. Stress where the symbols came from (i.e., the candles or oil of the hanukkiah represent the oil that lasted eight days in the temple).

7. Encourage your children to decorate indoors for Hanukkah, by creating their own dreidels or drawing pictures of hanukkiot to put up around the house. Place a hanukkiah in the window for all to see as they approach the house.

8. Decorate outdoors, if you wish, by putting up blue and white twinkling lights.

9. Play dreidel with your family with gelt (chocolate coins), peanuts or pennies. (See "Play the Dreidel Game.")

10. Purchase gifts for family and friends according to your personal tradition. Some families give gifts all eight nights, and some combine the gifts and give everything on the first or last night. Whatever your preference, buy gifts in advance to avoid crowds and getting caught without enough presents.

11. Enjoy the holiday when it arrives, and make sure it is as much a time for family unity as a celebration of the historical occasion.

Tags: your children, Encourage your, Encourage your children

Make Olive Soap

Make your own natural olive oil soap at home.

Making your own olive oil soap will protect your skin from chemicals and additives used in commercial soaps. Olive oil will moisturize dry skin, and it will keep your skin smooth and healthy. Olive oil soaps typically last longer than most soap, and olive oil will help to remove stuck-on dirt and debris. Typically called castile soaps, olive oil soaps are mild. You can customize it with essential oils and other natural ingredients to make it suit your own preferences.

Instructions

1. Pour 5 cups of distilled water into a large stainless steel container. Add 18 oz. of lye into the container. Stir it until it dissolves in the water.

2. Allow the lye to cool. Pour 20 cups of olive oil into a large stainless steel container. Heat it until the oil reaches 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

3. Pour the lye mixture into the warm oil slowly. Stir the mixture to combine the ingredients. Once you mix the ingredients together, use a stick blender on its lowest setting until it appears thick and opaque. The soap mixture will look like pudding when it is ready to pour.

4. Pour the soap mixture into a soap mold. Cover the mold with a towel, and allow it to cool and harden for 24 hours.

5. Remove the soap from the mold, and cut it into even bars. Age and cure the soap for four weeks on a wire rack.

Tags: into large, into large stainless, large stainless, large stainless steel, mixture into

The Best Way To Hard Boil Eggs

The Best Way to Hard Boil Eggs

The best hard-boiled eggs have yolks that are perfectly yellow, but cooked all the way through. Hard-boiled eggs should be easy to peel and slice if you're preparing a salad or deviled eggs. It's cliché to say, "I am so bad at cooking, I don't even know boil an egg." But boiling the perfect hard egg is like preparing any meaningful meal: It takes patience, keeping an eye on your dish and making sure the timing is just right. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Preparing the Water

Unlike beef or vegetables that you might cook by placing them into boiling water, start your eggs by placing them into a pot when the water is cold. Make sure the water covers the eggs by about an inch. Place the pot over high heat and bring it to a boil. Keep an eye on your eggs; as soon as the water comes to a rolling boil, remove the pot from the burner immediately.

Resting the Eggs

After removing the eggs from the burner, complete the cooking process by placing the pot on a cool burner and covering the pot with a lid. Let the pot stand for 15 minutes. This process ensures the eggs cook all the way through but do not become overcooked, which is what causes the yolks to turn gray.

Cooling Process

Once your timer goes off, remove the pot lid and place the eggs under cold running water. It will take a few minutes before the eggs start to cool and you might have to set the eggs aside in a bowl of water for a while to be water-conservation-friendly. Once the eggs reach a lukewarm temperature, place them in the refrigerator. This is the ideal cooling process. Cooling your eggs will make them easier to peel, because the cooked egg separates from the shell. Peel your eggs starting from the wider portion of the egg. The eggs will also be firm. If you're preparing deviled eggs, where presentation of the egg whites is important, it will be easier to cleanly slice the egg and remove the yolk. If you must use your eggs immediately after cooking them, run them under cool water while removing the shell.

Tags: your eggs, Best Hard, Best Hard Boil, Boil Eggs, deviled eggs, eggs will, from burner

The Advantages Of Using Olive Oil In Your Diet

Olive oil, prized for centuries as an elixur of healing and beauty, deserves its legends. Olive oil's status in Mediterranean cuisine continues gaining appreciation in America. The flavor, silky texture, ease of use in salads, cooking and baking makes trading olive oil for other fats pleasurable and painless. Mayo Clinic nutritionist Katherine Zeratsky asserts that extra virgin and virgin olive oil contain high levels of polyphenols, an antioxidant that contributes to heart health.

Replace Damaging Fats

One powerful advantage of using olive oil comes from replacing saturated fats (butter, lard) and trans fats with heart-healthy mono-saturated fat. Use olive oil-based salad dressings instead of creamy dressings and reduce cholesterol. Use olive oil for stir-frying and for cooking eggs, sauces and vegetables, instead of butter or less healthy oils. Cooking with olive oil results in lighter, less fatty-flavored foods. Commercial mayonnaise now comes with olive oil for a lower-cholesterol choice. You can make your own mayonnaise and sauces with olive oil. For some recipes try light olive oil. More refined light olive oil has less antioxidants, yet may be preferred for its milder taste. Antioxidants protect the body's cells from damage that can occur during metabolism.

Reduced Disease Risk

It sounds like magic: substitute olive oil for other fats and slash your risk of disease. Ongoing research substantiates these advantages of using olive oil. Clare Hassler, an expert on Food Science at the University of California at Davis, affirms that eating olive oil reduces risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, rheumatoid arthritis and some cancers.

Many of olive oil's benefits stem from its mono-saturated fats, including oleic acid. Because mono-saturated fats diminish potentially damaging LDL cholesterol, they protect against plaque build-up in the coronary arteries and the heart attacks this plaque leads to. Protect the olive oil's beneficial substances by keeping the lid on the bottle and keeping it in a cabinet when not in use. Consider investing in organic olive oil, to enjoy the benefits without added pesticides or chemicals.

Mediterranean Cuisine

Use olive oil with traditional healthy cuisines for increased health benefits. Amy Scholten, a nutritionist and health educator at New York University's Langone Medical Center cites numerous advantages of the Mediterranean diet and physically active lifestyle. These traditional cuisines combine whole grains, moderate amounts of protein and wine, beans, nuts, fresh fruits and vegetables with olive oil. Inhabitants of Crete and other Mediterranean countries that maintained traditional diets enjoy better health with lower incidence of cardiovascular disease, and leaner, healthy aging compared to populations consuming refined chemical-laden foods, excessive animal protein, saturated fats, trans fats, high sugar content, and other staples of American food and beverages. Traditional Mediterranean cuisines come naturally high in antioxidants and improve insulin resistance, resulting in lower risk for diabetes. Those combining physical activity and Mediterranean diet also enjoy lower incidence of obesity, stroke and cancers, including breast and colon cancer. Dieters lose weight and maintain the weight loss better on the Mediterranean diet as compared to a low-fat diet. An olive oil drizzled cuisine provides a lifestyle change people can live with, and enjoy.

Tags: with olive, Mediterranean diet, light olive, lower incidence, mono-saturated fats

Cook Spring Wheat Berries

Spring wheat berries consist of wheat with the hull removed.

Hard spring wheat berries are differentiated from other wheat in the same family by their gluten content. Although spring berries tend to have more gluten content than those harvested in winter, they both have relatively high levels of protein for their size. Uncooked spring wheat berries are commonly ground into flour, or boiled and added to other non-meat sources of protein such as legumes; the combination creates an amino-acid profile that the body can utilize as a complete-protein source. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Soak the spring wheat berries for approximately 12 hours or overnight. Soaking the wheat berries overnight reduces cooking time by approximately 45 minutes.

2. Drain the wheat and rinse with cool running water. Although the wheat berries can be cooked in the soaking water, rinsing removes any residual fiber or starch released during the soaking period. Place the wheat berries into a pot.

3. Add an amount of cold water equal to four times the amount of wheat berries in volume. For instance, 4 dry oz. of wheat berries require 16 liquid oz. of water.

4. Bring the water to a boil. When cooking certain food items, such as legumes, potatoes or wheat berries, always start the boiling process with cold water. Beginning with hot water shocks the berries' starch, causing the wheat to split.

5. Allow the wheat to boil for approximately 45 minutes to one hour. Add water as necessary. Gauge the doneness of the wheat berries by their tenderness. The wheat should not have any firmness in its center, nor should it have a paste-like consistency -- a sign of overcooking. Drain off the cooking liquid using a colander, and rinse the wheat berries with cool water to halt the cooking process. At this point, the berries can be stored in the refrigerator for three to five days, and reheated later and added to meals. Store cooked wheat berries in an airtight bag for up to one month in the freezer.

Tags: wheat berries, wheat berries, approximately minutes, cold water, gluten content

Mountain Oysters Definition

Mountain Oysters Definition

"Mountain oysters" may sound intriguing to folks who have never heard of them. Oysters in the mountains? Do they hide under rocks in creeks, waiting to be found, cracked open and fried? Before you indulge, read up on this delectable dish. Add this to my Recipe Box.

What are They?

Turn away from the creek and look toward the pasture: mountain oysters are peeled and cooked testicles, usually from bulls, although lamb, pig and goat testicles are also eaten.

Other Names

Mountain oysters are also known as Rocky Mountain oysters, calf fries, swinging beef, prairie oysters, calf fries and cowboy caviar.

Where to Buy

Mountain oysters can be bought online at specialty meat shops or at local farms (see Resources).

Prepare

Mountain oysters are usually soaked in salt water, drained, sliced 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick, rolled in flour and spices and deep fried. They are eaten warm, often with hot sauce.

Celebrating Mountain Oysters

From Texas to North Dakota, mountain oysters have festivals dedicated to them. Testicle connoisseurs and those who just love to eat them gather to celebrate this unusual dish and party hard with other fans of the mountain oyster.

Tags: Mountain oysters, calf fries, Mountain Oysters Definition, oysters calf, oysters calf fries, Oysters Definition

Anticancer Juice Recipes

Fruits and Vegetables Can Be Cancer Fighters

Some fruits and vegetables provide anti-carcinogenic glucosinolates (cancer fighters). When incorporated into the diet, they may improve general health, reduce free radicals in the body and blood stream as well as strengthen the systems in the body. While they are not a cure for cancer, there is anecdotal evidence to suggest some anti-cancer fruits and vegetables can be blended and consumed for a reduced risk of some cancers.

Considerations

When starting a dietary program, it is always best to speak with a health care professional before making any changes to your diet or exercise routine. He or she can determine the best combination of juices and supplements that should be taken based on your health, gender, age and general health. While fruits and vegetables are not harmful, many contain high levels of sugar that may raise the level of insulin in the blood. Also, persons undergoing chemotherapy may experience increased nausea and should consult a physician to determine if the following anti-cancer juice recipes can be used as a meal replacement or is suitable for use as a dietary supplement.

Breast and Skin Cancer Prevention Recipe

Always wash fruits and vegetables before blending and use a blender or food processor for easy handling and processing. To start the first recipe, wash and peel 1 pound of carrots and a 1/2 of a lemon. Add both ingredients to the blender and then sprinkle in a few green leafs, such as red lettuce or carrot greens. Next, chop 1 apple and then blend all the ingredients to a smooth texture. According to thebestofrawfood.com ("The Best of Raw Food"), this juice provides vitamin A, B vitamins, vitamin E and many minerals, including calcium. It is an ideal recipe for breast and skin cancer prevention.

General Anti-cancer Recipe

For a great tomato-flavored anti-cancer recipe, add 3 cups of chopped tomatoes, 1 stalk of celery, 1 cucumber, 3 drops of stevia (optional), 1/2-tsp. of himalaya sea salt, a pinch of pepper and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Blend to a smooth texture. Add 1/4 of an onion, fresh oregano and basil and red bell pepper for more zest. A blender or juicer can be used for this recipe. It is effective as a general anti-cancer fighter.

Cabbage Juice

Another great anti-cancer juice option is cabbage. The bitter taste may be off putting to some, so add carrot juice to balance the flavor. This vegetable is rich in vitamin K, C, fiber, manganese, B6, folic acid, omega 3 fatty acids, calcium, phyto-nutrients and antioxidants. According to the thebestofrawfoods.com, cabbage juice can lower the risk of colon, lung, breast and prostate cancer. Red cabbage is best, but white cabbage as well as kale, broccoli and collard greens can also be used for this anti-cancer juice recipe.

Quick Recipe

For a quick anti-cancer juice, blend beetroot (about half), celery (about 20-percent), carrot (about 20 percent), potato (about 3 percent) and radish (about 2-percent). Drink daily.

Tags: anti-cancer juice, fruits vegetables, about percent, general health, smooth texture

Restaurants In Totowa New Jersey

Though Totowa, New Jersey has one of the biggest populations of people with Italian ancestry, all kinds of cuisine can be found in the borough.

The borough of Totowa is a suburban enclave located in northern New Jersey's Passaic County. Despite having one of the largest populations of people with Italian ancestry among American municipalities, Totowa area restaurants serve up a diverse variety of culinary delights, whether Japanese, Thai, American comfort food or Italian. Does this Spark an idea?

Sushi Lounge

Sushi Lounge in Totowa fuses music and cool atmosphere with Japanese culinary delights. Enjoy plum wine, sake and champagne at the bar, or any of Sushi Lounge's many selections of martinis, wines and cocktails from their drinks menu. Starters include an array of Japanese rolls, such as the tuna, salmon and yellow rolls, and vegetarian options like the cucumber, avocado and tempura vegetable rolls. Sushi Lounge also has hot and cold appetizers to serve as preludes to the dozens of kitchen and sushi bar entrées. End your meal with one of the several dessert selections, like crème brulee or tempura ice cream, or sample one of Sushi Lounge's dessert wines.

Sushi Lounge

235 Route 46 West

Totowa, NJ 07511

(973) 890-0007

sushilounge.com

Porcini

Porcini is an Italian trattoria servng Totowa and the greater Passaic County community. Pasta, chicken, veal, seafood and steaks are prepared daily, and are made to order. Tilapia Giuseppe, Pasquale tender chicken breasts, and veal Carmela scallopini are just a few of Porcini's entrée selections. Porcini also serves combination plates, such as shrimp with veal Milanese, and chicken Parmigiana with rigatoni vodka, for those wishing to experience all the flavors of Italy. Porcini has a children's menu as well as a variety of cappuccino flavors.

Porcini

400 Minnisink Road

Totowa, NJ 07512

(973) 256-8500

porcinirestaurants.com

Barnyard & Carriage House

On over seven acres of property, Barnyard & Carriage House is one of the oldest establishments in the Totowa area. Also a catering hall that hosts weddings and other special events throughout the year, the Barnyard & Carriage House has a restaurant serving American and Italian favorites. The restaurant specializes in steaks, including filet mignon, rib eye, T-bone and steak Giambotta. Try one of their Angus beef burgers, served on English muffins, with lettuce, tomato and coleslaw trimmings. There is also a prolific menu of pasta selections, from penne vodka and cheese ravioli, to pesto chicken tortellini and linguini with clam sauce. Chicken, fish, pizza, and sandwiches are also available.

Barnyard & Carriage House

754 Totowa Road

Totowa, NJ 07512

(973) 942-8229

barnyardandcarriagehouse.com

River Kwai Thai Cuisine

Located right in the heart of Totowa, the River Kwai Thai Cuisine restaurant serves authentic Thai food daily. Fried calamari, spring rolls, steamed dumplings and steamed mussels are among the appetizers, in addition to traditional Thai salads and soups. The restaurant serves entrées with meat, chicken, duck or fish, or patrons can choose from vegetarian selections. Tiramisu, mango mousse, key lime pie and green tea ice cream are featured on the dessert menu.

River Kwai Thai Cuisine

400 Minnisink Road

Totowa, NJ 07512

(973) 812-8488

riverkwaithai.info

Tags: Sushi Lounge, Barnyard Carriage, Barnyard Carriage House, Carriage House, Kwai Thai, Kwai Thai Cuisine

Use An Earth Stove

Earth stoves are an efficient way to cook using firewood. Earth stoves make efficient use of wood fuel, utilizing about 25 to 30 percent of fire energy (compared to less than 10 percent by open fires), and are therefore beneficial in efforts to conserve fuel and help the environment. Although primarily used in regions of East Africa, you can use an earth stove in any location where you use wood for cooking purposes. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Light the fire in the earth stove. Because of its enclosed fire area, you need to light the fire outside of the stove and then insert the burning material. The safest method is to insert some non-burning fuel and kindling before lighting. Then add a long stick that is burning only at one end to start the fire.

2. Place filled pots into the pot holes of the stove. For optimal heating and fuel usage, make sure the pots fit snugly into the holes.

3. Cover all pot holes in the stove top. Even if you do not need the holes, keeping them covered ensures that the heat from the fire remains trapped.

4. Stir the pot contents frequently. It is difficult to adjust the heat of an earth stove and stirring helps to avoid burned food at the bottom of pots.

5. Cover the fuel entry door and the pot holes when you finish. This will extinguish the flames and will retain the stove's heat inside until its next use.

Tags: earth stove, Earth stoves, holes stove, into holes

List Of Foods & Drinks High In Iron

Iron is a very important part of your daily diet-- without enough of it you can suffer a condition called anemia, which makes you feel dizzy, tired and apathetic. Without enough iron in your body, your immune system can become compromised as well. Vegetarians especially should be very careful about how much iron they consume on a daily basis. Following is an overview of foods and drinks containing iron, and get enough of it into your system.

All About Iron

Iron is a mineral essential to the human body. Iron deficiency, which is common in the North American diet, can lead to fatigue, and decreased immunity and energy because iron works to transport oxygen throughout the body.

There are two kinds of dietary iron--heme iron, which comes from the hemoglobin protein in the red blood cells of animals, and non-heme iron, which comes from plants. Of the two, heme iron absorbs into the body easier. To increase iron absorption, consume foods, drinks and supplements rich in vitamin C.

To ensure you get your daily recommended dosage of iron (10 to 18 mg a day) naturally through food, the National Institute of Health recommends the following iron-rich foods and drinks. The amount of iron required varies by age and gender. Although iron deficiency can be bad for your health, having too much iron also can cause serious health complications. Please consult a physician or nutritionist before starting any kind of diet or nutrition program.

Excellent Sources of Iron

Excellent sources of heme iron (3.5 mg or more per serving) include: liver, which has approximately 11 mg per serving depending on the type of liver; kidney, which has 7 to 11 mg, depending on the type; and shellfish, such as clams and oysters.

Excellent sources of non-heme (plant) iron include: cooked beans, including white beans, soybeans, lentils and chickpeas; breakfast cereals (the ones enriched with iron); and lima beans, red kidney beans and split peas.

Good Sources of Iron

Good sources of heme iron (2.1 mg or more per serving) include beef, poultry (the darker the meat, the more iron it contains) and blood pudding.

Good sources of non-heme iron include: enriched egg noodles, or any other enriched, cooked noodles; dried apricots and other stone fruit; spinach; peppers (canned/fresh) and tomatoes

Other Sources of Iron

Foods containing 0.7 mg or more of heme iron include chicken, ham (and other lean pork meat), lamb, veal, seafood (be careful to avoid mercury poisoning by consulting the mercury levels in your seafood) and eggs

And, finally, foods containing 0.7 mg or more of non-heme iron include: nuts; seeds and legumes such as peanuts, pecans, walnuts, pistachios, hazelnuts, almonds, cashews and sunflower seeds; breads (enriched with iron); breakfast cereals like oatmeal and farina/cream of wheat; wheat germ; canned beets; dried seedless raisins and fresh stone fruit such as peaches, plums/prunes, dates, apricots and nectarines.

Iron-Rich Drinks

The juice of any of the fruits listed previously can make an excellent iron-rich drink, along with beverages such as milk or protein shakes that specify they are enriched with iron.

In general, iron absorbs poorly into the body. Iron supplements and non-heme iron do not absorb as well as heme iron, so to maximize absorption, be sure to eat and drink foods high in vitamin C to better absorb the iron. Consult a physician to assess your daily iron needs before starting any diet and nutrition program.

Tags: heme iron, iron include, non-heme iron, enriched with, enriched with iron, Sources Iron

Compost A Latrine

Building a composting latrine is not difficult, but must be carefully managed to be safe.

Many Peace Corps volunteers and others working in sustainable development have built composting latrines around the world. The idea behind a compost latrine is to dispose of human waste in a hygienic manner to discourage disease transmission, then to compost the material for use as a soil enhancer for growing gardens and crops. Composting the human waste can be done either quickly in three to four weeks, or slowly over a period of two years. While a composting latrine is a workable concept, education on the composting process is necessary for the composting latrine to be well managed and maintained. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Find the site for the latrine. The latrine should be at least 30 meters from a clean water supply (rivers, wells or springs), approximately 5 meters from the house (preferably downhill and downwind), and 2 meters above the groundwater table. The latrine should be either above ground or on top of a mound of dirt.

2. Dig two vaults, each .5 to 1 meter deep, 2 meters wide and 2.4 meters long, for a slow composting latrine. Place the PVC pipe to vent the vault to the outside. When one vault is full, cover it and leave it for two years so all the pathogens in the human waste will break down. At that point, the compost can be shoveled out and used on the fields. The other vault is used until it is full and the process begins again.

3. Dig one vault for the fast composting process. Place a bucket in the outhouse for urine collection; urine can be diluted and used on garden soil as a nitrogen-rich fertilizer. Place a bucket of sawdust for use on the waste in the latrine house. After each use, scoop some sawdust, grass or dirt over the waste to keep down odors and prevent insects. Cover the waste sufficiently.

4. Shovel out the material and move to a place for the compost when the vault is nearly full. A simple compost bin 3 feet square and 4 feet deep can be used. Add the sawdust and waste mixture from the latrine.

5. Add the other compost materials, layering on the carbon and nitrogen components until you have the correct carbon to nitrogen ratio (in this case, two parts carbon to one part nitrogen). For fast compost, all the materials for the compost must be added at the same time.

6. Add water until the compost is as damp as a wrung-out sponge. Try to keep this level of moisture, not too wet and not too dry.

7. Use a pitchfork to turn the compost to incorporate air after one week. Aerobic hot composting needs air to help the soil microorganisms break down the decomposing waste.

8. Stick the thermometer into the center of the compost to check the temperature. A good, fast compost should be between 130 and 170 degrees F. The heat of a fast compost kills pathogens from the human waste.

9. Allow the compost to work longer to ensure that all pathogens from the human waste are dead, even though the compost will have broken down the waste and other ingredients in three to four weeks. Let it set for two weeks or a month to cure and stabilize pH levels.

10. Use the pathogen-free compost to mix with garden soils and spread on fields for crops.

Tags: human waste, composting latrine, fast compost, break down, carbon nitrogen, compost materials, composting process