Green Smoothie or My Healthy Holiday Booster (Diary, Gluten/Grain and Sugar Free)

It is the holiday season, which can mean less exercise and more food.  I wanted to make a drink that the girls would enjoy and that would give them some extra vitamin C as well as other essential nutrients.  This makes a thick smoothie so if you prefer something a little thinner add some water or your favourite non dairy milk.
Enjoy!

Ingredients (serves 2)

• 2 handfuls kale
• 1 1/2 cup diced pineapple
• 1 peeled orange
• 1 peeled and pitted avocado
• 2 tablespoons ground flax seeds
• 1 capsule probiotics (optional-I used Dr. Udo's)
• 1/4 cup water (optional if you want a thinner drink)

Directions

1. Add all ingredients into blender and puree until smooth.  Add the water if you want it a little less thick.
2. Serve and drink immediately.

Read More →

Thanksgiving Menu (Dairy, Gluten and Refined Sugar Free)

This week is our friends in the United States will be celebrating Thanksgiving.  In Canada, we have already celebrated ours back in October.  I do love planning menus so I thought I would share one I might use for the weekend.

Kale Salad

Roasted Squash and Coconut Soup

Cucumber Salad

Roasted Brussel Sprouts and Sweet Potatoes with Fennel

Mini Grain Free Apple Crisps

Pear Clafoutis

Happy Thanksgiving!

Read More →

Pumpkin Mousse or Custard (Dairy, Egg, Gluten/Grain and Refined Sugar Free)

Custard and mousse are some of my favourite desserts.  This one was a hit with the whole family.  We had one serving as a breakfast and another for a dessert.  I am looking forward to trying this with some other flavours as well.

Ingredients (makes 8 single servings)

• 2 cups cooked and pureed pumpkin
• 1 3/4 cups coconut milk
• 1/3 cup pure maple syrup (or more if you prefer a sweeter dessert)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon allspice
• 1 teaspoon gluten free vanilla 
• 1 tablespoon gelatin powder
• 1/4 cup warm water

Directions

1. In a medium pot heat pumpkin, milk, syrup, cinnamon, nutmeg and allspice.  Cook until hot but not boiling stirring frequently.  Use a blender if needed to ensure mixture is very smooth.  Remove from stove before continuing with step #3.
2. Add gelatin to warm water and stir to fully combine.
3. Add gelatin to pumpkin mixture and whisk together until fully combined.
4. Pour into single serve bowls (ramekins) and chill for 4 hours or longer, until set.

Read More →

The Positive Power of Corporate Health and Wellness

Studies have shown the positive benefits of implementing corporate wellness programs, and Pacific Power Renewables in Auburn California has jumped on the band wagon of health for their employees in a BIG way! When CEO, Dan Powell contacted me to run the kick-off fitness challenge for Pacific Power, I was more than happy to oblige and over-the-top excited to be a part of bringing health into their work place in a fun, interactive way.  This was not going to be about anything generic, but I wanted to reach out to each individual employee and provide realistic goals and ideas on how to adapt a healthy lifestyle.  The PPR Ten-Week Fitness Challenge was going to run right through the holiday season…now talk about being serious…I was all in and motivated to MOTIVATE them!  Check out what Dan Powell, CEO Pacific Power Renewables had to say:

 

“When we first considered this fitness challenge, it was meant to be a general health improvement program.  It wasn’t about insurance premiums or anything else, we just care about our little family here and wanted them to be healthier.  We hoped a residual benefit would be some team building and bonding. We originally expected about a 50% participation level and about a 50% attrition rate from there. We were surprised that we originally had over 95% participation and only two people have dropped out.  On the flip side of that, we’ve had people from related companies, family members, etc. who’ve wanted to take part after we started. 

 

Now not even halfway through it, we have noticed a significant improvement in energy levels.  People seem happier, healthier, and are working together as a team to plan meals, exercise, even just daily walks.  We’ve all been having a lot of fun with it.  It’s a competition but a friendly one.

 

Our program was designed to have individual prizes for the greatest weight loss as well as group prizes for aggregate weight loss.  As well, we wanted to keep people motivated, so we offered individual awards for each significant milestone; running shoes, water bottles, exercise balls etc. 

 

Only partway through our 10 week “fitness challenge”, we are declaring it an enormous success.  I attribute that to the following key factors:

1)  We hired a professional trainer in Darla Leal.  She assessed each person, set realistic goals and supported them throughout in uniquely individual ways.

2)  People here were on the verge of making these kind of life changes, they just lacked the motivation. 

3)  We went into this full bore, big prizes, professional trainer constant attention and motivation.

 

I have heard some touching stories come out of this.  People have made significant changes to their lives and we’re so glad we started this.  We’re having Darla give us a healthy cooking workshop in a couple weeks and people are really psyched about that.  Thank you for all your hard work Darla.  This has been fun!” Dan Powell (CEO Pacific Power Renewables Inc.)

 

 

 

 

Corporate wellness incentive plans are a great way to get employees started in a corporate health and wellness program.  Pacific Power has covered all bases with individual, group, and recognition awards throughout the program and the employees are definitely motivated.  I have seen excitement build over the weeks of working with each employee as weight has been lost, inches reduced, and overall health improved, but more than that, I have observed an improved mental outlook and happier person.

 

“I had been working out and eating somewhat healthy for months, but not losing the weight like I used to.  Darla offered lots of ways to make small changes that have really made a difference.  I’m finally on my journey in the right direction again!” Jennifer Goodwin

 

Most people spend more hours at work than anywhere else in addition to the time they spend commuting each day.  Taking that into consideration, it is easy to see why maintaining a healthy work and life balance has become increasingly important.  It is the caring employer that recognizes a corporate wellness program as an important tool to establish this balance.  The common goal of a workplace wellness program is to promote the well-being of the employees, employers and organization in general.  It is within such positive work environment that the morale is boosted overall, productivity is increased, and absenteeism is reduced as only a few benefits of a corporate wellness program.

 

“Darla is a very energetic, encouraging REAL trainer.  She listens to what your needs are and helps you find ways of success for your lifestyle.  Your encouragement and guidance got me started on the road to better health.  I am excited about losing weight and becoming healthier.  I am finding inner strength that I didn't realize I had and am now learning to control my weight instead of my weight controlling me.”Sarah Modgling

The bottom line is that Pacific Power Renewables has taken advantage of the benefits of corporate

wellness and has made it a goal to implement a program sooner than later, and not waiting until employees are stressed, sick or applying to other jobs.  I am touched each week by the care of the management and the response of the employees and have had the privilege to be a part of something very special within Pacific Power.  They have definitely set the bar high for other companies to follow suit in implementing a health and wellness program.  They realize that a healthy employee is a happy employee.

“I have really enjoyed this opportunity to work with Darla, and learn how to incorporate better, healthier choices into my life. Being accountable to another person has made it easier to stick to the program and keep up with my daily journal. Her enthusiasm is contagious and keeps me motivated to take my fitness to the next level.”

“Thank you so much for the nutrition work shop on Friday - it was a blast! The camaraderie that has developed from this program is really awesome!!”  Gina Herum

 

Stay Healthy Nutrition Workshop

 



 

Healthy Pizza Workshop

Another important and visible element of a corporate wellness program is setting up a fitness facility where employees can work-out.  Pacific Power Renewables has also answered that call and I have had the pleasure to conduct an interactive group exercise class as an intro to their new workout area.  This is definitely an added perk, free of cost, convenient and an investment that this company is willing to make for the health of their employees.  In addition to the fitness facility, Pacific Power has provided a Nutrition Workshop where I was able to teach not only the importance of eating healthy, but gave them a hands-on experience of cooking and tasting healthy foods.   When an organization invests in the health of their employees, the benefit is truly for the employer and employee as the quality of the workplace and the work through productivity and satisfaction are greatly improved in addition to overall health benefits for all.  Hats off to Pacific Power Renewables for making corporate health a priority!

 

It is time for all companies, large or small, to invest in the importance of health within their corporate environment.  I would be happy to consult with you to make this happen and I look forward to hearing from you.  Starting with a “Fun Fitness Challenge” to motivate and get people fired up for the program is a great start.  Give me a call today and StayHealthy!

 

 

Me with CEO Dan Powell and wife Karen

Thanks for stopping by my Blog, hope you enjoy the content, and if you have not become a follower yet, I would love to see your face on my friend's list.  If you are inspired, LIKE my entry, leave a comment and I look forward to responding!

 

Stay Healthy~

Darla

 

 

 

Read More →

Apple Chips in the Dehydrator

I had to figure out a away to use up some left over apples.  This was definitely a good way to use them up and enjoy them n a different way.  I do like using the dehydrator as it keeps the food raw.  I imagine you could do these in the oven but I am not sure at what heat or for how long.  Do let me know if you have a recipe as I will add it to this post.

Ingredients

• Your favourite apples cored and peeled if you prefer (I didn't peel mine)
• Cinnamon
• Palm sugar (optional)

Directions

1. Slice apples to approximately 1/8 inch thickness.
2. Place apple slices in a bowl and shake on desired about of cinnamon and sugar, stirring to coat.
3. Line apple slices onto dehydrator sheets ensuring they are not covering each other.
4. Dehydrate at 110 F for 10-12 hours.
5. Store in a air tight container.

Read More →

Checking In & Melissa Bender Fitness

I was so pumped with the "finish the year healthy and strong" and have loved reading your comments about your plans to do the same.  Week one getting back to the gym was really tough, I was sore, sore, sore.  But, that's the pain that comes from being sedentary too long and it's a good sore- if you know what I mean.  Sitting in the steam room at my gym after a hard workout is on my thankful tree list this year. 

Week two, I started to feel like I was getting my groove back.  Don't get me wrong, it's still difficult getting into those workouts, but about 15-20 minutes in and the music is pumping on my iPod and something just clicks and the workouts start feeling GOOD!  Do you know what I mean?  That is the best.  And in just two weeks, I can see small changes to my body that are really inspiring.  

And now, week 3, I'm backing off because I'm not feeling too good- got run down, feeling sick, and have to listen to my body and take a little break for about a week.  I am just like you and I can't do everything all the time, and obviously I don't kill myself to post on both of my blogs daily, but just when I have something I want to share with you and can make the time to share.  I only want to write things here that you will find useful, beneficial, inspiring, or informational.  

So, today, I'm just saying, I'm not giving up, I'm not giving in.  I just needed a little break.  Back at it real soon.  Can't keep me down.  :)

How's it going for you?  

And I wanted to share a fitness blog I found that I was really impressed with- Melissa Bender Fitness.  This woman trained for a fitness competition without ever training in a gym- she did all her workouts at home. No excuses, right?!  I know getting to a gym is a struggle for a lot of people, so I thought you might want to check her site out.  She shares in great detail all her contest prep including food and workouts.  Let me know what you think and tell her I said hi!  

_________________________

Read More →

Toothpaste and The Dangers of Fluoride

If you follow me on Facebook you will have seen that I am reading, The Nourishing Traditions Book of Baby and Child Care by Sally Fallon Morell and Dr. Thomas S. Cowan.  I highly recommend this book if you have children or are planning on having children. There are some excellent chapters on illnesses, vaccinations, disorders, pregnancy, nutrition and remedies.

One section in particular was of interest to me.  The authors have written a simple yet informative piece about the dangers of fluoride.  We are finally living on a fluoride free well but before this, we had been on a fluoridated city water system.  Many European countries as well as some Asia countries have banned fluoride from their drinking water, however in many parts of Canada and the United States, fluoride is still added to much of our drinking water.

According to the authors, fluoride can suppress your thyroid, slow down metabolism, cause behavioural problems and create white or even staining spots on your teeth.  The Environmental Health Perspectives Journal has even found that children in high level fluoride levels had significantly lower IQ scores than those who lived in low fluoride levels.  Yikes with fluoride and sugar (see The Secrets of Sugar) we are creating some less than intelligent people.

Dr. Mercola has a great interview with dentist, Dr. Osmunson, who after much research realized that fluoride does very little to reduce tooth decay but in fact found that areas with less fluoride had less decay. Dr, Osmunson goes on to explain the dangers of fluoride.  Fluoride can inhibit the production of melatonin, increase the changes of cancer,  encourage hyperactivity as well as dementia.  For more on this interview please see  The Toxic Import from China Hidden in this Everyday Beverage...

If you are concerned about the amount of fluoride your family is ingesting do consider fluoride free toothpaste as well as omitting any dental fluoride treatments.  There are many brands of toothpaste which promote a fluoride free recipe.  There are also some great sites on making your own toothpaste.  Talking to your region about their water treatment process will also give you some more insight about what you are ingesting.

Read More →

MY INTENTION

 

 

"This really appealed to me in such a POSITIVE way. Life is about our journey, and the CHOICES that we make to become better people in ways that make sense to us. I think about the word "health" and what that really encompasses and it is not just a number on a scale but a combination of emotional, spiritual, physical and nutritional. I live my life the way I want to and some may like it and some may not, but it is MY LIFE, just as YOUR life belongs to YOU. We all have differing issues, possible medical problems and limitations, overwhelming life stresses, and those behind closed doors secrets that may greatly impact our life, and that we simply choose not to share with others. Those things belong to us, and sifting through and creating answers to our individual stories is what matters and doing so to become a healthier happier person in all areas of "health" is what counts. There is never a "one size fits all" answer to our fitness and nutrition programs, how we serve God, and how we choose to live our life. We are NOT generic people made to fit in some sort of "health" box coming out the other side all fixed. That is just not reality. What I enjoy may not be what you enjoy, what I eat may not be what you like to eat; the service I give to God may not be how you honor God...you get my point. I never fall for gimmicks that claim that this is the "only way" to achieve a healthy lifestyle. Really??? Based on what? When each of us walk a mile in each other's shoes, then we "might" have the ability to make such claim, but I will always be the type of MOTIVATOR that realizes that life and the journey to health is different for everyone, and I will do my best to provide the correct encouragement for YOU."

 

I shared the above post on my Facebook page last week as I was inspired after seeing a motivational poster and  reading several articles on the whole controversial “what’s your excuse” image that has been receiving both positive and negative feedback.  I am a believer of intention and positive messages shared through my life and stories.  I share because I am inspired to write and through that I am hopeful to help someone adapt a healthier lifestyle, whatever that may mean in a life and in that moment.  My intention is never to discourage, but to be a motivator through my passion of helping people.  Sometimes, images and statements can be miscommunicated which is why I am not a huge fan of texting as so many things can get lost in translation.  I believe that much misinterpretation occurred with the controversial image and that is one thing that a picture is unable to do…explain intention.  The originator intended one thing, the audience perceived something completely different.  The laughable part of the whole scenario is that all publicity is good publicity in the world of marketing, and one controversial image regardless of intention is now the beginning of either a great opportunity to further help people through the exposure, or a lost chance that will eventually fade due to inability to keep the audience captured.

 

I will share that I am a “NO EXCUSES” trainer when it comes to people giving me reasons why health is not a priority.  I do not hear that “my health is not a priority” stated in those words from people, but I hear it through the underlying messages of “I am too busy”, “I am unable to cook”, “I am unable to afford a trainer or membership”, “My kids need me, my husband or wife wants this kind of food”, “My work does not allow”, “I am on the road constantly”, “I have no time to shop”, and the list goes on and on.  The point is that I do not accept or believe that anyone is too busy to take care of their health. When I post an image of myself, it is not for the intention of saying “hey, check this out and you should look like this”, it is for motivation to share that I am almost 50, have gone through major physical and emotional adversity, and have come out the other side healthy and happy.  My career is my passion and I do walk the talk of consistent exercise and healthy eating, and I share that with my clients, family, friends, and anyone who will listen to me.  I will not tell anyone to implement a “my way is the only way” approach to health, fitness and overall wellness as that is not true.  I am confident in my teaching and my example, and know that it works, but intelligent enough to respect and research other avenues.  Shoot, I enjoy learning from my clients when they have researched a topic. In my book, we are in this world together, working together to be the best we can be.  I do not have the expectation that my clients or you will exercise like me, or maintain nutritional intake as I do.  I may make things look easy but I bet if I came to your job and I was able to watch what you do, I would think the same thing of you. The only expectation that I have is that healthier habits are formed and an eventual healthy LIFESTYLE is adapted and whatever that looks like to each person that I have had the opportunity to work with is an A+ in my book.  I always grade on a curve too as we are not perfect people, but always works in progress.   What it comes down to is that we all KNOW WHAT TO DO…right?  The problem lies in not accepting what we already know needs to be done to be healthier people.  It is my life, your life, our lives and how we CHOOSE to live each day is up to each and every one of us.  I do not want you to look like me, exercise like me, or eat like me because I am doing a great job living my life.  I am hopeful that you are sparked to make healthy choices for you, to implement exercise routines that you enjoy, to start cooking healthy foods that you like, and to look in your mirror and say I want to look like a healthy ME.

 

 

 

Thanks for stopping by my Blog, hope you enjoy the content, and if you have not become a follower yet, I would love to see your face on my friend's list.  If you are inspired, LIKE my entry, leave a comment and I look forward to responding!

 

Stay Healthy~

Darla

Read More →

No Bake Chocolate Bars (Dairy, Gluten, Grain, Nut, Refined Sugar and Egg Free)

I always love a good chocolaty treat.  Instead of using nuts I put in some seeds instead so they will be school safe.  I prefer to keep these in the fridge to they stay nice and hard.  These make a great snack as they also provide some protein for energy.

 Ingredients

• 1/2 cup honey or agave if vegan
• 1/3 cup coconut oil
• 1/4 cup raw cocao or cocoa
• 1 teaspoon gluten free vanilla
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 cup shredded coconut
• 1/3 cup pumpkin seeds
• 1/3 cup sunflower seeds
• 1/4 cup ground flax seeds

Directions

1. Grease a 8x8 dish
2. In a medium size sauce pan add oil, honey and cocoa.
3. Bring to a boil while stirring frequently.  Allow sauce to boil for one minute.
4. Remove from heat.  Add all remaining ingredients.
5. Pour into greased dish.  Allow to cool on counter and them place in fridge to harden.
6. Cut into squares and store in a closed container in fridge or freezer.

Read More →

More Natural Remedies for a Cold

Cold and flu season is upon us.  Ever since we moved, about six weeks ago the girls have been battling a cold.  It has been rather frustrating and mind boggling for me.  I am trying to ensure their diets only promote a stronger immune system yet they have been struggling with this cold.  I believe the change in location, school and house has contributed to their fight as they are fighting against some new germs.

I decided to go to the nearest health food store to get some help.  The on-sight homeopath was very helpful and gave me a couple suggestions that I had either forgotten about or hadn't tried.
I figured there were more people struggling with the same situation so I am sharing what we have used and am glad to report we are cold free.

For more information on some more natural remedies check out my post Natural or Alternative Remedies to Keep on Hand

1. Astragalus
In morning before eating any food I am giving them some organic apple juice with astragalus.  Astragalus has been used in Chinese medicine and works at stimulating the immune system.  Our naturopath had suggested it to me years ago as a natural flu "vaccine."

2. Vitamin C
Through fresh fruits and vegetables as well as juicing.  We also add a scorbatate mixed into a drink and occasionally take some fun vitamin C "candies" for a treat.  These do contain sugar so I would not solely rely on them.

3. Oil of Oregano
The oil of oregano is key for killing bacteria.  A simple drop into a glass of water will help kill those germs.  I can't get the girls to drink it as it is so strong but they don't seem to notice it in a juice.

4. Probiotics
Will keep balance your digestive system and allow for proper nutrient absorption.  The probiotics give your body healthy bacteria which will help fight off the unhealthy bacteria.

5. Gargle with Sea Salt Water

The girls have been taught to properly gargle with salt water which will help clean our the germs which linger in their mouths.  Gargling with salt water is also a great way to get rid of or prevent a sore throat.

6. KIDS 0-9 Cough and Cold
This remedy was new to me as I usually separate my homeopathy but both girls had a variety of symptoms so I thought I would try a combined cough syrup.

7. Vitamin D
Perhaps not as essential in fighting a cold but I do feel it is important in the winter months for mood and general health.

8. Increase Water, Raw Fruits and Vegetables
Increasing water as well as raw fruits/vegetables is also important in flushing out toxins as well as increasing essential nutrients.

9. Decrease Sugars and Dairy.  
Eliminating dairy will also help decrease the mucous production.

For more on sugars I highly recommend this video The Secrets of Sugar by the Fifth Estate.  This video made me even more conscious about our diet.  I HIGHLY recommend you watch this video.  Check out the rat experiment 28 minutes into it.  We may be creating a stupid society with sugar.

Read More →

Finishing the Year Strong Update & Tex Mex Casserole with Egg Noodles

We last talked about our goal of finishing 2013 healthy and strong and I so appreciate your feedback in the comments.  Your courage to share where you are in your journey helps me be transparent in mine too and I feel like we're in this together.  I got in 4 really great workouts last week, and I feel that that's a good fit for my current schedule through the end of the year.  It takes some planning and preparation to make sure to get to the gym, but if I workout hard for at least 50 minutes, I'm good with 4 days. 

Getting started back into a weight-lifting/workout routine is especially hard because you are so SORE for the first few days.  I had to take Advil a few times, but I'm already fine.  And isn't it funny how after just a few workouts you feel 5 pounds lighter?!  My scale says I'm down half a pound.  It's a start!

via

On Halloween, I ate 2 chocolate chip cookies that a mom from my son's school made and a mini Reese's Peanut Butter cup.  To be honest, the cookies were delicious, but I should have just had one, and the Reese's didn't taste that good- probably because I'm a PB cup snob now, having fallen in love with the homemade variety.  The point is, if I'm going to "cheat" I want it to be worth it!  And I know that finishing the year strong requires some sacrifice and diligence with my food especially during the week.  So, I'm being more conscious of what foods I'm choosing and having something really good to look forward to on the weekend.  On Saturday night, we went out to a great restaurant and I ate oxtails and potatoes- so good, but really rich, so I only ate about 1/3 of what was on my plate.  I had 2 glasses of wine and for dessert, had a big ole ice cream cone that I really enjoyed.  Back on the wagon for Monday.   

My other tip for this week is to SHARE MEALS when you go out to eat, if possible.  I'm usually full after half my meal, but feel like I need to finish, so I'll end up eating too much.  Leftovers from restaurants usually end up in the trash and it's a shame to waste the food and money.  Sharing with someone eliminates that and you don't leave the table feeling so heavy from overeating.  

via

I made a healthy meal last week that I think you might like too.  I warn you that it's not the prettiest dish, but very tasty and full of protein.  It's kind of a Tex-Mex casserole with egg noodles.  I really believe that "abs are made in the kitchen", which is why the eating portion is so crucial to seeing results.  My meals last week pretty much consisted of:

7am- oatmeal and coffee

10am- protein shake 

12pm- this casserole

3pm- tuna sandwich and Sun chips 

6pm- this casserole

8pm- Greek yogurt or hot cocoa

I also stopped in Starbucks a few times (which is a step back from my previous daily addiction).  

Ingredients

1 Jennie O- Extra Lean Ground Turkey

1 Laura's Lean Beef (94% Lean) - or go leaner

1 bag No Yolk Egg Noodles

1/2 container of Philadelphia Cream Cheese (1/3 less fat) - or use fat free

1 cup Shredded Mexican cheese (2%) - or use fat free

1 package Taco Seasoning (low sodium)

*Update 2/16/14:  add some minced parsley, chopped onion and garlic for added flavor

Directions

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Boil the egg noodles for about 8 minutes, then drain.

Meanwhile, (*Update 2/16/14, brown the onion and garlic) and then add the two meats until cooked though, add the seasoning mix with about a cup of water and let it boil until the water and seasoning is absorbed.  Then, I add the parsley.

Off the heat, add the cream cheese and the shredded cheese to the meat mixture and stir until all melted and mixed in.  Add in the noodles and stir until combined. 

Pour the entire thing into a 9x13 baking dish, top with remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese.  Bake for about 20 minutes.  *Update 2/16/14:  I'm not baking this dish anymore because I felt like that dried it out.  

I based this dish on a pin from Pinterest, but lightened it up.  To make it even lighter, use leaner beef and fat free cream cheese and fat free shredded cheese.  Some people may also like to add salsa to this for more flavor. 

If you portion this dish into 10 servings, below is the nutrition information.  I use myfitnesspal.com to calculate the nutrition- it's free and really user-friendly. 

So, how's it going for you?  If you've fallen off the wagon, just get back on!

via Nike

___________

Read More →

Split Pea and Bacon Soup (Dairy, Gluten and Grain Free)

The weather is cooling and soup season is upon us.  I hadn't made a pea soup in a while.  This soup was relatively easy to make and tastes good pureed smooth or left more as a stew.

Ingredients

• 3 cups dried split peas
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 5 cups water or use more broth for water
• 6 strips nitrite free bacon cut into bite size pieces
• 2 diced carrots
• 2 diced celery stalks
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 diced onion
• 2 minced garlic
• olive oil for frying

Directions

1. Heat oil in a frying pan and cook onion for 3-5 minutes until soft.  Add garlic and cook another minute.
2. In a large pot add all ingredients including the onion and garlic.  Bring to a boil and then simmer for approximately 45 minutes or until peas are soft.  Be sure to stir frequently.
3. Serve can be pureed or left as is and served.
4. Soup will thicken as it cools and you may want to add additional water.

Read More →