by Michaeline on December 16, 2008
The holidays are time of year for gathering family and friends to celebrate. But it is no celebration if you are stuck in the kitchen and everyone else is in another room socializing. I would like to share an easy and elegant recipe that can be used for holiday entertaining and that can keep you out of the kitchen and in the room with the rest of the party. Enjoy!
Slow Cooker Beef Burgundy
3 pound boneless chuck arm pot roast
1 can (10-3/4 oz.) condensed beef mushroom soup
1 can (10-3/4 oz.) condensed creamy onion soup
1 cup sliced fresh mushroom
1 cup chopped onion
1/4 cup burgundy or other red wine
Trim excess fat from meat. Cut meat into 1-inch pieces. Place in slow cooker with mushrooms and onions. Mix soups with wine. Pour over meat. Cover and cook on high for 4 hours or on low for 9 hours or until tender. Serves 6 -8. Serving Suggestion: noodles and dilled baby carrots.
Note: I use reduced fat ingredients whenever possible. You can also save time by using pre-cut stewing meat and pre-sliced mushrooms.
by Michaeline on November 25, 2008
While the holidays offer the comforts of home and hearth there is also the opportunity to overindulge.
It is possible to survive and enjoy holiday celebrations without calling out the food police if you follow a few tips:
Plan ahead
- Plan activities where food isn’t the primary focus.
- Before attending a party have a snack to take the edge off hunger.
- Offer to bring a healthy dish to pass.
- Commit to balanced meals, adequate fluids, plenty of rest and regular exercise.
Take care of yourself
- Don’t skip meals especially breakfast.Keep your regular exercise schedule.
- Plan some quiet time into your day to mediate, journal or relax.
- Set realistic goals. Delegate what you can or eliminate activities
Stay aware
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Station yourself away from the buffet table so you make a conscious choice to eat.
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Watch your alcohol intake for the sake of calories and commitment.
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Pace yourself. Save your indulgences for one or two favorites.
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Acknowledge stress and handle it in healthy ways.
Enjoy the holidays doing the things that matter most to you and savor a few treats as well as the company of family and friends. You will thrive not just survive.
