Diet, Dessert and Dogs

[I should have just given up on the sticky notes, because I want to try Every. Single. Recipe. in this book!!]

Okay, so if you’ve been reading this blog for any length of time at all, you know that I am decidedly not the type of gal to attend a rave. (Read: too old. And even when I wasn’t too old, I was too health conscious. And, well, even when I wasn’t too old or too health conscious, I was too nerdy.).  So when I say, “rave,” you probably know I’m referring to the verb rather than the noun; as in, “I simply can’t rave enough about this spectacular new cookbook that has quickly assumed a place among my all-time favorites!” (And believe me, with over 200 cookbooks cramming my shelves at the moment, that is saying a lot).

Full disclosure: as with most reviews I write here on DDD, this book was provided free of charge by Christy’s publishers and I was not required to write anything positive about it (or anything at all, for that matter). You may know Christy Morgan as “The Blissful Chef,” whose blog, ebooks and live cooking classes have been offering up healthy, delicious recipes to eager masses for several years now.  Christy also chronicles her culinary adventures (from LA to Texas and elsewhere), on her Facebook page.

Before we begin, however, I feel I must be entirely honest and admit that I was already somewhat biased in favor of the book even before receiving it. You see, I had done a review of one of her previous ebooks, Cooking with the Seasons: Summer Edition, last year, so I already knew I had loved those recipes and suspected I’d like these as well. Perhaps even more important, I was aware that Christy’s focus on traditional plant-based diets (vegetarian, vegan, macrobiotic, low fat and raw foods)  jibed well with the ACD and I’d probably find lots of recipes I could eat within my dietary restrictions, with a minimum of adjustments to boot. 

Well, let me tell you, this book is aptly titled. I was literally blissed out as I leafed through this gorgeous tome, which provides not only a full explanation of Christy’s approach to food and eating; a complete list of pantry basics and tools plus various chef’s techniques (now you’ll know just how to chiffonade–perfectly!); over 175 recipes organized by seasons (as well as “anytime”); but also a full resources section at the back and a metric conversion table. The full-color photos offer mouth-watering illustrations of many of the recipes, and the book’s pages are printed on thick, sturdy paper, an important detail when you plan to subject your book to repeated, regular usage (as I most definitely do!).

I literally couldn’t decide what to make first, there were so many recipes that appealed to me–and that I was permitted to have on the ACD! Should I try the Orange-Pumpkin-Ginger French Toast? Or perhaps the Asian Millet and Quinoa Pilaf?  Maybe the Blissful Two-Bean Harvest Chili? Eventually, I settled on Kale Salad with Curry-Coconut Sauce, simply because I already had all the ingredients on hand.

[Damn these dark winter evenings. . . this photo totally does not do the dish justice!]

I’m going to preface this next comment by saying that the HH is a very picky omnivore.  In other words, he has no trouble whatsoever eating hocks, haunches, brains, kidneys, hearts–even intestines of animals, but will balk at “veggie” foods I serve, such as grated daikon radish (“What is that? Anemic carrot?“), chia seeds (“Looks like fish droppings“) or spirulina (“Isn’t that the water you cleaned your brush in for your watercolor painting?”). Needless to say, he wasn’t thrilled about eating a salad with arame (seaweed) as a major player.

Well, we both swooned over this salad. When I first read the ingredient list, I was a bit concerned about the quantities in the sauce–it seemed like SO much spice–but mixed with the still-moist kale and arame, it was perfect. A spicy, creamy, slightly nutty coating on firm, toothsome kale with light marine influences. I simply loved it, and the HH even requested it again!

Next up was the Broccoli Salad with Creamy Mustard Dressing. If you’re familiar with that once-ubiquitous broccoli salad from buffets a few years back, this dish will evoke memories of those times. . .but vastly improved. The piquant dijon is balanced by the sweet (I used stevia instead of the suggested maple syrup); the crispy, green and fresh with a creamy sauce and crunch of radishes. An aesthetically pleasing as well as flavorful mix of ingredients.

We also thoroughly enjoyed the Wasabi Sweet Potato Salad, which had been beckoning me from the moment I first spied the recipe. I adore sweet potatoes, of course, and have had them spiced in sweet potato fries, but never with something quite so hot as wasabi. Again, I wondered at the proportions of the spice mix in the ingredients, but should have trusted Christy.  The sum worked out to be greater than the parts, and I loved this salad as well (I had run out of the called-for cucumbers, so subbed radish instead; still worked wonderfully). I could have eaten the entire batch by myself!

[I swear, it's not tomato sauce! But even tastier.]

Next up was another ingenious, fantastic recipe: the Mama Mia Magnifico Sauce, ideal for those who are either allergic to tomatoes or can’t eat nightshade vegetables (eg, those with arthritis). I didn’t tell the HH that this sauce was tomato-free, and he had absolutely no idea.  When I finally let the cat out of the bag, he was genuinely surprised and commented that this was “as good as any tomato-based pasta sauce we’ve ever had.” I concur. I loved it on pasta, of course, but also used it the next day on a grain-free pizza crust, and later, defrosted, with crumbled frozen tofu for a sloppy joe lunch.  You’ll be amazed by this one!

And I just couldn’t resist one more. . . while I don’t eat many sandwiches (or much bread at all, for that matter), I have always made an exception for Reubens, one of the most satisfying combinations of protein, complex carbs and creamy dressing I can imagine in existence.  I couldn’t resist giving Christy’s healthified version a try.  The marinated tempeh and tangy Russian-style dressing complemented each other marvelously, and the use of avocado in lieu of standard melted cheese was a brilliant way to incorporate the smooth creaminess you’d expect without the dairy or any artificial ingredients.  The HH actually ate two of these (as open-faced sandwiches). With leftovers the next day, I enjoyed mine à la raw, wrapped in a crisp collard leaf, like so:

I literally can’t wait to cook through this entire book (counting the days until I can use maple syrup again. . . ), there are so many appealing recipes in it. 

If you’re looking for a cookbook filled with mouth watering, healthy and flavorful plant-based recipes that are also impressive to the eye, I’d recommend Blissful Bites as your first choice. I love that Christy focuses on whole foods ingredients, low fat and low sweeteners (and when she does use sweeteners, they’re all natural, like maple syrup or brown rice syrup).  If you’re on a restricted diet (as I am), this book will likely still offer up a plethora of recipes you can enjoy. 

Now, go out and find your Bliss(ful Bites)! (PS. Just checked–if you order through amazon.com, you can still receive it in time for Christmas with 2-day shipping!).

And Happy Hanukkah to everyone who’s celebrating tonight!

Last Year at this Time: Holiday Nog (Egg-free, dairy-free, sugar-free, gluten-free)

Two Years Ago: Warm Butternut Salad with Chickpeas and Tahini Dressing

Three Years Ago: Gastronomic Gifts VI: It’s the Great Pumpkin, Butter

Four Years Ago: Quick and Easy Tofu Masala

© Ricki Heller, Diet, Dessert and Dogs

[You wanna piece of me?  Recipe at end of post.]

I’m delighted to be taking part in the Home for the Holidays event, organized by Shirley over at Gluten Free Easily.  The event spans almost a month, with a new blogger each day (25 in all!) presenting to you the recipe that spells “home” to her or him: the one that sparks memories of family gatherings when you were a child, warms your insides, makes you smile and evokes love and community. The one you immediately think of when you think, “holidays“!  And we hope you’ll join in on your own blog by posting the badge, below, and linking up to the event as well!

So what does this mean?  Well, there are twenty five amazing recipes–AND twenty five amazing giveaways!  Just as there will be a new recipe posted every day (mine’s at the end of the post), there will also be a new set of prizes each day (each blogger will be giving away 3 prizes, with some repeated, so if you don’t win a favorite book on one day, you can try again later!).  In addition to the individual bloggers’ giveaways, Shirley is coordinating three incredible Grand Prizes–and you’re automatically entered for each of the grand prizes every time you enter any of the individual giveaways throughout the month (such as the one you’ll find below!). D

Here’s the jaw-dropping lineup:

3rd prize: Caveman Cookies  ($89.00 value!)

2nd prize: Shopping Spree at Free From Gluten ($150 value)

GRAND PRIZE: Top of the Line VitaMix blender! (and you all KNOW how much I love my VitaMix!!)

To enter to win these three prizes–or any of the others—leave a comment on any, or all, of the blogs presenting in the event. Every entry also counts toward the three grand prizes. The more you enter, the more chances you have to win! The three prizes above will be announced on Gluten Free Easily on Christmas.

Today, I’m giving away these two prizes: THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO ENTERED!

TWO Copies of Living Without Magazine!  This is a fantastic resource for anyone who has food intolerances, sensitivities or allergies.  You’ll find great information and recipes for people who live without eating gluten, dairy, eggs, soy, corn, etc!

And 

ONE copy of Sugar Nation: The Hidden Truth Behind America’s Deadliest Habit and the Simple Way to Beat It by Jeff O’Connell. As you know, this is a topic close to my heart.  O’Connell talks about how we’ve become sugar addicts in our society, the causes, the effects, and what we can do about it. 

TO ENTER TO WIN ONE OF THESE GREAT PRIZES THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO ENTERED! (all entries are also eligible for the three grand prizes): simply leave a comment on this post. 

You can gain extra entries by doing one or more of the following.  FOR EACH EXTRA ENTRY, PLEASE COME BACK AND LEAVE A COMMENT TELLING ME THAT YOU’VE DONE SO.

• Post about this giveaway on your own blog, on Facebook, Twitter, Google +, or Stumble it.
• Follow DDD on Facebook, twitter, Pinterest, or subscribe to this blog.

The giveaway will run until MIDNIGHT ON TUESDAY, DECEMBER 13.  THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED. THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO ENTERED! Shirley will announce the winners on her blog at the end of the week, and I’ll also announce them here thereafter.

To see Kelly’s amazing Peanut Butter Pie with Double Chocolate Crust from yesterday, click here.  And check in tomorrow for a treat from Iris at The Daily Dietribe.

For a complete list of all the prizes and their sponsors, see the end of this post (just after the recipe).

[Chocolate + peppermint + truffles = My kinda holiday food!]

When I thought about what foods evoke “holidays” for me, there was only one answer: chocolate.  As an avowed chocaholic (okay, serious, recidivist, chocolate addict), pretty much any special occasion has to include the beloved blissful brown bite, but wintertime holidays in particular bring this confection to mind.

When I was a singleton living on my own, I rented the basement apartment of a fabulous Victorian home that had been converted into four flats.  The woman on the top floor was a jetsetting, run- (and flirt)-with-the-wolves kind of gal, with a fashion sense that combined pixie-cute appeal with a definite siren-sexiness factor. (In the end, she nabbed the son of Canada’s richest billionaire as her husband.  The marriage has since dissolved, but I have no doubt that the bank account is as healthy as ever).

One  year, Ms. Jetsetter invited me to a Christmas party in her flat.  Emerging from the bowels of the building, my eyes still squinting from the light, I was entirely entranced by the fantasty winter-wonderland theme of her party and the dreamy quality of the decorations in her apartment. It was as if she had smeared the camera lens with Vaseline and strung gauze all over the place, with everything slightly blurred, the edges softened, silver and white undertones to the light and shadows throughout the place. The antique tree decorations were illuminated in glimmering beams, reflecting off the glowing embers in the fireplace. Tabletops were crowded with plates of food and drink and small, flickering candles emitting a soft and sensuous glow.  And there, in the bathroom (yes! the bathroom!) was a lovely bowl of individually wrapped chocolate truffles on the counter, so guests could sneak a little treat with them after checking their reflections, fixing their lipliner, or straightening a tie.

I was in love with the idea of offering truffles in virtually every room of the party, and since then, have blatantly copied the concept any time I throw a holiday bash.  But the truffles themselves were easier to attain, since they came from Canada’s own President’s Choice line.  Anyone who lives in Ontario (or has access to the brand) will likely be familiar with these rich little squares, covered in milk chocolate and concealing a mint-chocolate ganache filling. 

Now that I can consume neither chocolate nor sugar, I just had to create an ACD friendly version of my own.  I think you’ll find these incredibly reminiscent of milk chocolate, and just as irresistible.  The insides are a blended-till-silky-smooth mix of coconut, cashews and chocolate (somebody save me), all covered in a thick and intense dark chocolate cloak. The contrast in flavors and textures is enough to make even the richest billionaire swoon.

The next time you throw a holiday party, you can proudly lay these treats out for your guests–in whichever room you choose.

[Didn't I tell you they look like milk chocolate?  Rich, minty, smooth. . . heaven.]

Here’s the full lineup of participating sponsors and prizes for Home for the Holidays:

PRINT BOOKS (Cookbooks and Resource Books, or Combos):

–More Make It Fast, Cook It Slow and Totally Together Journal combos–by Stephanie O’Dea, three combos (3)
–Simply … Gluten-Free Desserts by Carol Kicinski, 2 signed copies (2)  each with a package of Carol’s Gluten-Free Flour mix
–Artisanal Gluten-Free Cooking by Pete and Kelli Bronski, one signed copy (1)
–Artisanal Gluten-Free Cupcakes by Pete and Kelly Bronski, one signed copy (1)
–Gluten-Free Baking for Dummies by Jean Layton and Linda Larsen, one copy (1) (release date Dec. 6)
–Gluten-Free on a Shoestring by Nicole Hunn — 2 copies (2)
–Gluten-Free in 5 Minutes by Robin Ryberg — 2 copies (2)
–Gluten-Free Makeovers by Beth Hillson – 2 copies (2)
–The Gluten-Free Almond Flour Cookbook by Elana Amsterdam, six signed copies (6)
–The Gluten-Free Cupcakes Cookbook by Elana Amsterdam, six signed copies (6)
–The Gluten-Free Asian Kitchen by Laura B. Russell, two copies (2)
–The Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Kitchen by Denise Jardine, ONE EXCLUSIVE ADVANCE COPY (1)
–The Pure Kitchen by Hallie Klecker, two copies (2)
–Cooking for Isaiah by Silvana Nardone, three copies (3)
–Free for All Cooking by Jules Shepard, one signed copy (1)
–The First Year: Celiac Disease and Living Gluten Free: An Essential Guide for the Newly Diagnosed by Jules Shepard, one signed copy
–Healthier Without Wheat by Dr. Stephen Wangen, three signed copies (3)
–Sugar Nation by Jeffrey O’Connell, four copies (4)
–Wheat Belly by William Davis, three copies (3)
–Dangerous Grains by Ron Hoggan and Dr. James Braly, two copies (2)
–The Food Allergy Kitchen by Amra Ibrismovic and Carmel Nelson, one copy (1)
–The Whole Foods Kosher Kitchen* by Lévana Kirschenbaum and Lisa R.Young
–The Spunky Coconut Cookbook 2nd edition, by Kelly Brozyna, one signed copy (1)
–Grain-Free Baked Goods and Desserts by Kelly Brozyna, one signed copy (1)
–Paleo Comfort Foods by Julie and Charles Mayfield, three copies (3)
–Go Dairy Free* by Alisa Fleming, two signed copies (2)
–Modern Spice by Monica Bhide, one copy (1) (in combo package with Monica’s app, iSPICE)
–Perfect One-Dish Dinners* by Pam Anderson, one signed copy (1)
–The Whole Life Nutrition Cookbook by Ali Segersten and Tom Malterre, two signed copies (2)
–The Steamy Kitchen* by Jaden Hair, one copy (1)

–100 Best Gluten-Free Recipes by Carol Fenster, one copy (1)

E-BOOKS (Cookbooks and Resource Books) 

–Gluten-Free Goddess E-Book: Best Loved Recipes by Karina Allrich (1)
–The Gluten-Free Diner Cookbook by Diane Eblin, one copy with tote bag (1)
–7 Quick Start Tips for Living a Healthy Gluten-Free Fit Life, by Erin Elberson, five copies (5)
–Sweet Freedom*, by Ricki Heller, one copy (1)
–Combo Set of following: Good Morning Breakfasts, Desserts Without Compromise, and Anti-Candida Feast Book by Ricki Heller, one copy (1) of set 

MAGAZINES–Easy Eats, three subscriptions–electronic (3)
–Delight, two subscriptions–print (2)
–Living Without, two subscriptions–print (2)  

APPS

–Cook IT Allergy Free by Kim Wilson-Maes, three apps (3)
–iSPICE by Monica Bhide, one app (in combo package with her cookbook, Modern Spice; already mentioned above) (1)  

OTHER

–GlutenTox Testing Kit, two packages (two tests in each kits) (2)
–Tropical Traditions Gold Label Virgin Coconut Oil Certified Organic, one quart (1)

–Five pound bag of Honeyville organic almond flour (1)

*Indicates prize is not exclusively gluten free, but offers much that is gluten free or easily adapted 

GRAND PRIZE–A top-of–the-line Vitamix—woohoooo! Specifically, Vitamix is offering its Super Healthy Lifestyle package, which includes a 5200 machine and a 32 oz. dry grains container for grinding your own, gluten-free flours. Note that on Cyber Monday (11/28), Vitamix will be offering this package at $499 as part of its holiday special; that’s $50 off the normal price. The winner will also receive a copy of the e-book, Eat Fresh and D-Tox Your Life. This e-book is the perfect companion for this amazing Vitamix; read more here. 

SECOND PRIZE—A $150 shopping spree at Free From Gluten (freefromgluten.com). Free From Gluten is the largest gluten-free store offering everything from basic products like gluten-free flours and xanthan gum to those treats like Enjoy Life semi-sweet mini chocolate chips and special products like baguettes and ice cream cones.

THIRD PRIZE—Caveman Cookies giveaway package ($89 value).  One large bag of each of the current three flavors , Original, Tropical, and Alpine ($28.95 value) plus one large bag of the soon-to-be released new flavor, Rainforest ($9.95 value; will be shipped as soon as available; anticipated end of Dec); 1 large variety pack ($32.50 value), and 1 t-shirt ($17.50 value; your size, your color). 

Last Year at this Time: Rich and Creamy Chai Carob Latte (gluten free; ACD   Stage 2 and beyond)

Two Years Ago: Stevia-Sweetened, Gluten-Free Blueberry Lemon Muffins (ACD Stage 2 and beyond)

Three Years Ago: Blended Hot Cereal (gluten free option; ACD maintenance)

Four Years Ago: Dog Day: Bonehenge

© Ricki Heller, Diet, Dessert and Dogs

NOTE: THE GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED! THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO LEFT A COMMENT. 

The holiday spirit is definitely in the air. . . and today, I’m excited to tell you about a blog event in which I’m participating, called the Home for the Holidays. . . Gluten Free Style! It’s hosted by Shirley of Gluten Free Easily and will continue from now until December 23rd.

Please join me, Shirley, and 23 other gluten-free bloggers as we make  the recipes that mean both “home” and “holidays” to us. I’m sure you know the ones: one smell or one bite, and you’re enveloped in all the warmth, love, and holiday wonder of the season. Perhaps they’re recipes that have been passed down through the generations, and now you’ve succeeded in making a gluten-free version.  Or maybe they’re new, naturally gluten-free favorites. No matter what, they’re recipes you’ll enjoy sharing with family and friends.

I’ll be sharing my own “Home for the Holidays” recipe with you on Sunday, December 11th!

There’s A Giveaway Each Day–with a spectacular Grand Prize of a VitaMix Blender! 

In addition to the recipes that say Home for the Holidays, we’ll also be hosting giveaways of the resources you value the most … cookbooks, reference books, apps, and much more.

This event will take place from Monday, November 28 through Friday, December 23. The daily giveaways will be announced each day (with a quick turnaround time to enter, so be sure to follow along so you won’t miss out!). 

Every time you enter on any of the individual blogs, your entry is also eligible for each of the final prizes as well. In other words, if you enter each daily giveaway, you’ll end up with 26 entries for the final prizes!  

Final Prizes:

The third prize is a Caveman Cookies giveaway package (an $89 value)!

The second prize is a shopping spree from Free From Gluten (a $150 value)!

And the grand prize is a top-of-the-line Vita-Mix professional blender 5200 Super Healthy Lifestyle package and a free copy of the super cool e-book Eat Fresh and Detox your Life (a $560 value)! If you follow DDD regularly, you know how much I love my VitaMix! I’m thrilled that one of you can win one, too!

Here’s the Lineup so you can follow along (for a full list of each day’s giveaway, you can check Shirley’s intro post, or just go to the blogs each day):

Monday, 11/28–Shirley Braden at gfe–gluten free easily

Tuesday, 11/29–Diane Eblin at The WHOLE Gang

Wednesday, 11/30–Heidi Kelly at Adventures of a Gluten-Free Mom

Thursday, 12/1–Ali Segersten at The Whole Life Nutrition Kitchen

Friday, 12/2–Sunny Busby at And Love it, Too!

Saturday, 12/3–Stacy Toth at Paleo Parents

Sunday, 12/4–Maggie Savage at She Let Them Eat Cake  

Monday, 12/5–Melissa McLean Jory at Gluten Free For Good

Tuesday, 12/6–Kim Maes at Cook IT Allergy Free

Wednesday, 12/7–Alexa Croft at Lexie’s Kitchen

Thursday, 12/8–Brittany Angell at Real Sustenance

Friday, 12/9–Elana Amsterdam at Elana’s Pantry

Saturday, 12/10–Kelly Brozyna at The Spunky Coconut

Sunday, 12/11–Yours truly at Diet, Dessert and Dogs

Monday, 12/12–Iris Higgins at The Daily Dietribe

Tuesday, 12/13–Stephanie Fourie at Gluten Free by Nature

Wednesday, 12/14–Jules Shepard at Jules Speaks Gluten Free

Thursday, 12/15–Silvana Nardone at Silvana’s Kitchen (and Easy Eats)

Friday, 12/16–Heather at Gluten-Free Cat

Saturday, 12/17–Carol Kicinski at Simply…Gluten Free

Sunday, 12/18–Alisa Fleming at Alisa Cooks

Monday, 12/19–Linda Etherton The Gluten-Free Homemaker

Tuesday, 12/20–Gigi Stewart at Gluten Free Gigi

Wednesday, 12/21–Zoe at Z’s Cup of Tea

Thursday, 12/22–Lillian Medville Lillian’s Test Kitchen

Friday, 12/23—Me again, Shirley Braden at gfe—gluten free easily

If you’re counting on being home for the holidays this year, I hope you’ll join us for some–or all–of the daily posts, and enter to win the some of the many giveaways.

And major thanks to Shirley for hosting this amazing event!

Welcome to Week 3 of A Gluten Free Holiday 2011, the holiday event created by Amy and shared each week by yours truly (and four others–check below for all the participating blogs)!  This week’s topic, Gifts of Good Taste, is hosted by Alta of Tasty Eats at Home. Hop on over to see what edible gifts Alta has to share, or to link up your own favorite gifts-of-food recipes (and be sure to enter the giveaway while you’re there!).

I thought this would be a perfect week to share some of my own favorite recipes on the blog that would also make fantastic homemade–and edible–gifts.

Before we get to the food, though, we’ve got another cookbook giveaway! 

The book Alta is giving away this week is Artisanal Gluten-Free Cupcakes by Kelli and Peter Bronski.  So if you’re a cupcake fan, or if you want to win a great gift for someone else who is, enter the giveaway by leaving a comment on Alta’s blog or by linking up a recipe there.

And now, the food. . . .

In my younger years, I made almost all of my gifts myself (edible or otherwise).  Of course, the fact that I was a student living in penury (I won’t say I was a “starving” student, because with my love of dessert, that was never even a vague possibility) was one factor contributing to my motivation for making everything from scratch (unlike today, when the motivation is trying to remain free of the dreaded candida symptoms).

[Matcha Chocolate Truffles]

More importantly, though, I always believed that homemade gifts demonstrated how much you cared about someone, giving to them both your time and your thoughtfulness.  Since time is at a premium for all of us these days, we have to choose wisely–both what we’ll make, and to whom we’ll be giving it! 

For those very special people on your lists, you might want to mix up one of the following.  (NOTE: Some of these recipes are made with spelt and/or higher glycemic sweeteners such as sucanat or maple syrup.  Recipes with an asterisk * fall into that category; the rest are gluten free and lower glycemic.)

[Marzipan-Topped Shortbread Cookies]

Sweets:

• Chocolate Macaroons*
• Cinnamon Spiced Coconut Bark
• Coconut-Raspberry Truffle Cups
• Fudge Two Ways*
• Halvah
• Hazelnut Melting Moments
• Jam-Filled Turnovers*
• Love Bites (ACD-friendly chocolate fudge)
• Marzipan-Topped Shortbread Cookies*
• Matcha Chocolate Truffles (with ACD option)
• Raw Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Truffles
• Spiked Sweet Potato Truffles or Truffle Cups*
• Tutti-Fruiti Christmas Cookies*

[Raw Chocolate Almond Butter]

Condiments and Spreads:

• Spiced Pumpkin Cream Cheese Spread
• Raw Chocolate Almond Butter
• “Notella” (Chocolate Hazelnut Spread)
• Brandied Apricot-Ginger Spread 
• Cranberry Preserves
• Walnut-Cacao Nib Butter

[Spicy Nori Snacks]

Savory Snacks:

• Spicy Roasted Seeds
• Spicy Nori Snacks (a personal favorite)
• Grain-Free Hazelnut Cilantro Crackers

To see what the other Gluten-Free Holiday 2011 participants are serving up today, check out their blogs:

Amy at Simply Sugar and Gluten Free

Maggie at She Let Them Eat Cake

Hallie at Daily Bites

Kim at Cook it Allergy Free

And my previous Gluten Free Holiday 2011 Posts:

I: Healthier Over the Holidays (Date-Free Date Squares)

II: Thanksgiving Favorite (Plumberry Sauce or Jam)

“Mum, it’s great that you’ll be making some homemade gifts this year. . . so does that mean Chaser and I will be getting homemade peanut butter treats? Mmm!”

Last Year at this Time: Roasted Chestnut and Parsnip Soup (gluten free;   ACD Stage 2 and beyond)

Two Years Ago: Apple and Red Wine Soup (gluten free; ACD Stage 2 and beyond)

Three Years Ago: Let Them Eat Eggplant (Caviar) (gluten free; ACD all stages)

Four Years Ago: How to Lose Weight without Even Trying

© Ricki Heller, Diet, Dessert and Dogs

Before I get to today’s post, I wanted to thank everyone for your comments on yesterday’s “What I Eat” post.  I am really loving the conversation that’s going on–please add your own two cents!

Can you believe it’s the last installment in the “A Gluten Free Holiday” series?  It’s been great fun being part of the event that Amy dreamt up a few months ago.  To wrap up the event, Amy is hosting this week, and focusing on desserts (pre-exam rush prevented me from adding my recipe to this post–I’ll post it this afternoon, though, I promise!).  And she’s giving away a total of SIX cookbooks--and you’ll be getting pre-release copies, too!

First up is three copies of Stephanie O’Dea’s Make It Fast, Cook It Slow: 200 Brand-New, Budget Friendly Slow Cooker Recipes. The book isn’t being released until December 28th, so you’ll be getting it hot off the press!

Or, you might win one of three copies of Amy’s own cookbook–Simply Sugar and Gluten Free: 120 Easy and Delicious Recipes You Can Make in 20 Minutes or Less.  Amy’s blog is already beloved for her wonderful gluten free cooking, and the book is much anticipated! 

So hop over to Amy’s blog to see her recipe for Cranberry Swirl Cheesecake, link up a holiday dessert recipe (or simply leave a comment) to enter the giveaway, and check out all the other delicious desserts while you’re there, too!

Then check back later today for my dessert recipe.  Here’s what’s in store:

See you later on for some grain free, gluten free, vegan, sugar free dessert! [Update: It's posted!  You can get the recipe here. ]

[Did you win??]

First, thanks to everyone who entered the Simply Bar giveaway and helped me contribute to Second Harvest!  The giveaway received 87 entries, so I am going to upgrade the donation to $1 per entry and give $87 to the organization.  I know they can use it and will happily put it toward food for the hungry!

I’m also just coming up for air after spending most of the past week marking student assignments in preparation for our exam (which has been deferred because of a fire on campus–yikes!).  Speaking of deferrals, I am also going to defer my originally-scheduled giveaway for today. Instead, I’m going to share something that I think is imporant–my (current) philosophy of eating.  I’ll explain why when I come back later on!

In the meantime, here’s last week’s winner of the case of Simply Bars, Simply Snacks and Simply Oatmeal:

Number 54: Johanna Jabora-Scott!

 Johanna’s comment:

Yay Second Harvest! What a great idea. My instinct would be to try the Cocoa Coffee, but I have heard Lemon Coconut is amazing!

Johanna, Please email me asap so that I can get your prize out to you and you can start enjoying the bars!

See you later with some musings on food, eating, and what is “healthy.”

“Um, Mum, I don’t mean to steal Johanna’s thunder or anything, but don’t I at least get ONE Simply Bar for helping you out with choosing the winner?”

Hope you’ve been enjoying the A Gluten Free Holiday event, which features a different holiday theme each Thursday until December 16th! This week’s host is Carrie from Ginger Lemon Girl, and she’s highlighting gluten free breakfast and brunch dishes (my favorite meal!).  She’s also giving away some amazing cookbooks–so head over to Carrie’s blog to find some great recipe inspiration and share your own, or just enter the giveaway! 

Seems we all focus on the “main event” meals during the holidays, poring over cookbooks or stressing about which dressing would be best with the tofurkey (okay, I know many of you don’t eat tofurkey–but it’s such a fun word to say, isn’t it?). But what about the meals after the big meals?  What about breakfast or brunch?  This week, Carrie will take care of all of that.  First, she offers a fabulous recipe for. And she’s including a linky at the bottom of her post so that all of you can share your own breakfast and brunch favorites, too! 

And by linking to Carrie’s post–or simply leaving a comment–you can enter to win one of these four fabulous cookbooks:

One of FOUR COPIES of Elana Amsterdam’s wildly successful cookbook, The Gluten Free Almond Flour Cookbook;

One of TWO COPIES of Silvana Nardone’s (autographed!) Cooking for Isaiah;

One of THREE COPIES of Diane Eblin’s ebook, The Gluten Free Diner; and

Gluten Free Breakfast and Brunch Recipes by Lori Karavolis!

So hop over to Carrie’s blog to enter, and see what’s on the menu for holiday breakfast and brunch!

If you’d like to check out the previous “A Gluten Free Holiday” posts, here’s the lineup:

• I kicked things off with How to Stay Healthy Over the Holidays (and a recipe for coconut-raspberry truffles);
• Shirley of Gluten Free Easily offered Thanksgiving Holiday Favorites (with no-fail pie crust);
• Alta of Tasty Eats at Home provided Gifts of Good Taste; and
• Diane of The Whole Gang gave us Side Dish Favorites 

And now, on to breakfast. . .

Years ago, I jumped at the chance to go on a date with a guy from England–his name even sounded dashing (something like “Darcy Bedford”). Well, it was clear from the start that Mister Bedford perceived me to be a Cretin for my want of proper etiquette or decorum (and the fact that I lacked a decent stereo, as he judged it).  After all, back in the Queen’s homeland, everyone grows up saying “pleased to meet you,” and “by your leave,” and “cheerio”; they don’t speak with their mouths full; and they are all very proper in every circumstance, you understand. 

In this particular case, my twenty-something self was overwhelmed (I didn’t realize I should have been insulted): first, that the guy even asked me out (not only was he British, but an actor; not only an actor, but a working actor; and, most important to me at the time, he was terribly good looking–what the heck did he want with me?); second, that we went to a very posh restaurant; and third, that the table was set with a plethora of silverware. 

Like an erstwhile Pretty Woman (though I, of course, wasn’t as pretty, or as tall, and I had much less hair. . . oh–and, right, I wasn’t a hooker), I had no idea which fork to use, nor which knife to grip.  I followed Mr. Brittania’s lead and the meal worked out fine . The remainder of the evening, sadly, wasn’t nearly as successful, what with the bloke leaving my place in a huff almost immediately upon arrival, clearly miffed that I was not, as it turned out, a real-life counterpart to the celluloid pretty woman.

Whenever I think of British society these days, I think of High Tea and the elaborate spreads of cucumber sandwiches, bread with the crust cut off, watercress, and miniature scones with clotted cream.  Clotted cream!  I’ve never had the stuff, but anything rich and creamy evokes the notion of gustatory satisfaction.  But it’s the scones, of course, that take the spotlight. 

My mother used to buy prepacked sweets that were labeled “Tea Biscuits” when I was a kid.  Inside were hydrogenated shortening-heavy biscuits studded with brown raisins.  I loved their heaviness and density and the occasional sweet surprise when I bit into a sultana.  To me, those were “scones” until my late twenties, until my office mate at work baked up true scones, with butter and cream–and I was converted on the spot.

These days, there’s no butter and no cream, but I still love the morning sweet breads and try to bake them as often as I can.  Since the ACD doesn’t advocate too many grains (even if they are gluten-free), I’ve made these grain free (since quinoa isn’t truly a grain). After several trials, I came up with a recipe that is at once light, tender, and flavorful.  The fresh ginger adds a little kick while its dried counterpart confers a warming spice; together, the flavor mitigates the sometimes potent quinoa.  And quinoa makes them high protein, too–perfect for a balanced breakfast. 

These are great for anyone who wants a satisfying breakfast bread without piling on too many carbs.  Jolly good!

[And don't forget you can contribute to one of my favorite charities simply by leaving a comment on this Festive Freebie post!  (you'll also be entered to win some great protein bars)]

[A scone slathered with sunflower seed butter.]

Last Year at this Time: Well-Balanced Red and Green for the Holidays: Chiles en Nogada

Two Years Ago: Gastronomic Gifts II: Brandied Apricot-Ginger Spread (not an ACD recipe)

Three Years Ago: Hazelnut Mocha Cookies (not an ACD recipe)

© 2010 Diet, Dessert and Dogs

[This year, I decided to offer a "Festive Freebies" series in which I give away some of my favorite food products. . . hand-picked by me!  These are things I already love and actually eat (or use) regularly, and which I'd love to share with you.  Here's my fifth Festive Freebie--with a charitable twist. Click here to enter!]  

[And this is part of the package, too! Check details here.]

I. A new Festive Freebie!  This week’s Festive Freebie is one I’ve written about before.  I love these high-protein, low-fat, vegan and gluten free bars.  And with a couple of new products in the mix (see photo, above). . . I think you’ll love this week’s gift package!  Click here to enter the giveaway. (I apologize for the extra clicks.  I’m adhering to BlogHer’s giveaway rules, which don’t permit giveaways or contests on the main page).

II. ‘Tis the season. . . for generosity. Like many of you, I have favorite charitable causes to which I donate regularly. But this time of year really gets me thinking about helping others less fortunate and how I can give something more.  Back when I had my bakery, Bake it Healthy, I used to donate regularly to a charity called Second Harvest, which collects excess perishable food from restaurants, grocery stores or other fresh food sources and then redistributes it to the needy.  Often, high-end restaurants will throw away food that was made that same day simply because it didn’t sell–and that food can be used to supply meals to hungry people.  Second Harvest states, ” OUR MISSION is to help feed hungry people by picking up and preparing excess fresh food and delivering it daily to social service agencies in Toronto. OUR VISION is that no one need ever go hungryin the communities we serve.”

Now that I no longer operate the bakery, I’d still like to contribute. . . this time, by donating funds directly to the organization.  And you can help make it happen simply by leaving a comment on the giveaway post! I’m stealing this idea from Chocolate Covered Katie (who borrowed it from a couple of other bloggers.  Basically, I will donate 25 cents for each comment on the giveaway post.  That’s right–simply by entering the contest, you will be donating to Second Harvest! Read the full details (and enter) here.  And spread the word!

III. New Moon Kitchen Giveaway Winner: Thanks to Random.org, we have a winner of the New Moon Kitchen Cookie giveaway! 

Andrea of Andrea’s Easy Vegan Cooking wins the prize pack! Here’s Andrea’s comment:

Will you disqualify me if I have two favorite cookies? I’ll take my chances … I’m partial to classic chocolate chip cookies AND gingersnaps.

Evidently, Random.org was fine with the dual answer! Congratulations, Andrea.  Please email me by the end of this weekend (Sunday, December 12) with your full name and mailing address so that I can get those cookies out to you asap! If I don’t hear from you by then, I’ll choose another winner until the prize is awarded.

I’ll be back with a yummy new breakfast recipe as part of the A Gluten Free Holiday event in a couple of days.  For now, check out this week’s Festive Freebie!

“Mum, we’d be happy if you donate your extra food to us. . . no comments required.”

[PLEASE NOTE: If you participated this month and didn't see a comment from me, it's not that I didn't try.  For some bizarre reason, WordPress is now tossing all of my comments into spam.  If I usually comment on your blog and you haven't seen any from me lately, please check the spam comments and tell that *&%4#! Akismet that I am not a spammer!! Grrr. Thanks.]

It’s been quite the month, what with Vegan MoFo AND an SOS Challenge going on–but you guys rose to that challenge most admirably!  I’m happy to say that last month was our best-attended SOS Challenge so far, with 39 spectacular entries!

Of course, I already love any recipe that includes sweet potatoes.  But I was particularly impressed with some of the savory entries, including:

• Rhona’s Sweet Potato Tempura Sushi Rolls
• Saveur’s Vanilla Sweet Potato and Kale Curry
• Alex’s Sweet Potato Veggie Pâté
• Megha’s Sweet Potato Kebabs
• Lisa’s unique Sweet Potato Pasta

And you all excelled in the sweet department, too!  Some of my faves from this month:

• K’s Baked Sweet Potato and Pears
• Lisa’s Sweet Potato Power Cookies
• Nicole’s Sweet Potato Holiday Parfaits

. . . plus too many more great recipes to mention!  You’ll just have to check out all 37 entries on your own–see the thumbnails, below!

And let’s not forget this month’s winners! Once again this month, Kim and I were able to offer prizes for the SOS Challenge. We’ve chosen two names at random, each to win a prize from one of us.  And the winners are:

•  BROOKE from B and the Boy: You’ve won a hand-crocheted jar cozy courtesy of Kim.  Please contact Kim at eatingfreelyATgmailDOTcom with your full name and mailing address! (since this is a custom-made cozy, you can discuss which patterns and colors your want with Kim)
•  NICOLE from A Dash of Compassion: Your prize is a pack of my anti-candida ebooks, Anti-Candida Feast and Desserts without Compromise.  Please send me your email address to dietdessertdogsATgmailDOTcom as well so I can get your books out to you asap!

Thanks to everyone for another fun and successful SOS Kitchen Challenge last month! 

And in other news. . . .I’m also happy to announce that my article, “Holiday Survival Guide for Those on a Special Diet” is featured on This Dish is Veg.  I’ve shared these tips on the blog before, but here they are again in one convenient place!

And a Giveaway! If you love cookies and want to try out some super-healthy, drool-worthy varieties, I’m hosting a giveaway of New Moon Kitchen products this week!  Just click here to enter.

Thanks again to everyone who participated in the challenge last month. Kim and I are taking a break in December to focus on holiday cooking, gifts, and time with friends and family. We’ll see you for our next SOS Kitchen Challenge in 2011!

*****************************************************

[This year, I decided to offer a "Festive Freebies" series in which I give away some of my favorite food products. . . hand-picked by me!  These are things I already love and actually eat (or use) regularly, and which I'd love to share with you.  Here's my fourth Festive Freebie--click here to enter!]  

I. A Cookbook Winner!

Before I get to this week’s Festive Freebie, let’s find out who won last week’s Reader’s Choice Cookbook giveaway!

All the way from Australia–our winner is SUSAN from Kittens Gone Lentil! Here’s Susan’s comment:

The book I am most keen to get my hands on at the moment (though there are several) is Party Vegan by Robin Robertson. I love her books and recipes, and I love menu plans and putting together themed dinners, so this book just sounds like heaven!

CONGRATULATIONS, Susan!  I can’t guarantee you’ll get it by the holidays (Australia is pretty far away from here. . . ) but I’ll be ordering your book as soon as I hear from you with your full name and address and you can Party Vegan through the new year!  Please email me at dietdessertdogsATgmailDOTcom before Friday to receive your book!

II. This Week’s Festive Freebie:

Holiday cookies have arrived!  There are cookie bake-offs, cookie swaps, Twelve Days of Gluten Free Cookies, cookie contests. . . . With all the cookie madness upon us, how about some cookies you don’t have to bake yourself? 

These treats would make a great holiday gift for anyone who’s new to the kitchen, whose busy schedule prohibits too much baking, or who is interested in healthier, yet still deliciously homemade-tasting, cookies.  And they are one of my all-time favorites.

Click here to read my review and enter the giveaway. [Note: I am required by the rules of BlogHer to place my giveaway on a separate page. Sorry for the extra clicks, everyone!]

III. A Quick Smoothie Recipe

I’ll be back later with last month’s SOS Roundup and those winners, too, but in the meantime, I’ve got another breakfast recipe for y’all.  Breakfast (as you might recall) is my favorite meal of the day, and I never tire of new breakfast options.  Here’s a really quick and refreshing smoothie recipe I enjoyed earlier this morning.

I was feeling like oatmeal when I first got up today [groaner alert]–funny, I don’t look like oatmeal. . . well, actually, maybe that’s not entirely true these days–but knew I just didn’t have the time to cook it up.  So I concocted a festive smoothie that includes a touch of oats along with a protein kick and some seasonal cranberries.  Yes–raw cranberries.  The result was creamy, filling, and tart yet not lip-puckering.  It offered just enough sweetness for my taste with only a few drops of stevia, but sweeten as you like.  The recipe will be included in my upcoming ebook on ACD-friendly breakfasts.

For the giveaway, click here!

Last Year at this Time: A Matcha Made in Heaven: Chocolate Green Tea Truffles for Everyone

Two Years Ago: Gastronomic Gifts I: Fudge Two Ways (not ACD friendly)

Three Years Ago: Holidailies

© 2010 Diet, Dessert and Dogs