Take One!

This morning was a hoot! We were visited at Daisy Mae's Market by the Cooking with Caitlin gals and a Time Warner Cable video crew. They're putting together a series of videos to share Caitlin's cooking tips on Time Warner On Demand. They'll film in various Cincinnati and Dayton locales for the shows that will air beginning in March. Needless to say, we were honored that they chose to do the first episode at Findlay Market. Molly, Kelly, and Caitlin are such a pleasure to work with, and every time I'm with them, they reinforce our belief that food is fun. Check them out on their website and tune in to 55KRC on Sundays at 3:00 for their "What's Hot?" radio show, and I think you'll see what I mean.
Thanks, Cooking with Caitlin and Time Warner Cable, for including us in your production. Can't wait to see the final cut!

Why Cooking is Hot

I'm always impressed by the number of young people who are regular shoppers at Daisy Mae's Market at Findlay Market. Not only do these young people buy bananas, apples, and other easy-to-eat fresh produce, but they also buy jicama, eggplant, fresh basil, and more. They're definitely interested in eating healthy, cooking, and making food fun.
However, the young people aren't alone. I've noticed a renewed interest in cooking across all ages in the last few years---and this includes my own renewed interest. Maybe it's the economy since it's definitely less expensive to eat at home than go to a restaurant. Maybe it's a general trend toward "cocooning" or  increased awareness about relationships between diet and good health.
I know we're influenced at our house by all the inspiring cooking shows on television. Any time we want to watch, we can find Anthony Bourdain traveling all over the world and sharing his culinary experiences or Barefoot Contessa whipping up something that looks delicious. When we want a dose of competition with our cooking, we cheer for Man vs. Food or the Iron Chef. I'm sure all of these non-stop food shows have definitely encouraged more people to get into the kitchen.

For me personally, I credit much of my renewed interest in cooking to Google. Yes, we have plenty of cookbooks, old recipes, and handwritten notes that we often use as our cooking resources. However, I find the easiest and quickest way to come up with a dinner idea is by putting a few words in the Google search window.  For example, I thought today I could stop by Kroeger & Sons and pick up some sausage. I've also had a craving for sweet potatoes. I entered "sausage" and "sweet potatoes" in the Google search window and came up with this: Oven-roasted Sausage and Sweet Potato. Looks easy, includes lots of vegetables, can be prepared ahead of time. Bingo! I'm a cook!
I'm interested in hearing what inspires you to spend more time cooking. Leave a comment and we'll all learn something new.

Free Kiwi Slooper!

Every now and then, you run across something that you just can't wait to share. I recently learned all kinds of great things about kiwis from the California Kiwifruit Commission. I already knew the kiwi was among our most nutritious fruits--more Vitamin C than an orange, as much potassium as a banana, high in fiber, and rich in beta-carotene and flavonoids. I also knew that you should look for a semi-firm kiwi when selecting one to buy and that you should store your kiwis in the refrigerator if you're not planning to eat them right away. But I also learned a bunch of interesting stuff about the history of the kiwi, where and how it grows, and possible uses for the kiwi. Make sure when you visit the site, you watch the 4-minute YouTube video.
But the real reason I couldn't wait to write this post is that if you hurry, you can get a free slooper! You don't really need a slooper for slooping the kiwi, but if it's free, why not order yours today? And while you're waiting for it to arrive, get to Daisy Mae's Market at Findlay Market and stock up on this delicious and nutritious fruit.

Mr. Daisy Mae and his Sleigh

We've all heard the unofficial motto of the United States Postal Service..."Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds." At Daisy Mae's Market, we don't do the "gloom of night" thing, but we're pretty reliable when it comes to staying open at Findlay Market and fulfilling our delivery orders.
If you live in Cincinnati, you know that another big winter snowstorm is predicted for tomorrow. Of course, in traditional Cincinnati fashion, today then becomes the day when everyone panics and hurries to the store to buy bread and milk (and presumably, fresh produce). I thought today would be a good time to remind you that Findlay Market is open every day Tuesday through Sunday, year-round, EXCEPT if the City of Cincinnati declares a Level 3 Snow Emergency. Level 3 rarely happens as that is when all roads are closed to all non-emergency personnel. 
We're also pretty proud to say that Mr. Daisy Mae has never missed a delivery because of weather. Occasionally he's run a little later than he prefers, but he's always arrived safely with his sleigh full of fresh produce. 
With that in mind, I have three suggestions:
1. Shop at Findlay Market today to avoid the crazy crowds at the big-box grocery stores. Parking is free and easy, and the merchants are eager to serve.
2. If you can't make it to Findlay Market today, order your fresh produce by contacting us at daisymae@daisymaesmarket.com.
3. If it snows tomorrow like they predict, drive carefully, take the Metro, or walk to Findlay Market, and you'll be greeted with open arms and warm smiles. (And bring your camera because the Market is beautiful with the snow!) 

Healthy Foods from A to Z

We've reached Day 12 of our 12 Days of Healthy Foods. We began with "A for Apple" so it's only fitting that we end with "Z for Zucchini." Zucchini used to be considered just a summer squash, but these days we're able to enjoy this versatile vegetable year-round.

Zucchini is rich in health benefits and is a good source of manganese, Vitamin C and A, and dietary fiber. Research has shown zucchini has possible anti-cancer effects, is good for heart health, and may help regulate blood pressure and cholesterol. Because zucchini is also an anti-inflammatory, it may be helpful for asthma and arthritis sufferers. The dietary fiber found in zucchini also helps regulate the digestive system.
Zucchini is one of the easiest vegetables to grow in a home garden. Without too much attention, a few plants will yield enough zucchini in the summer for your family and a bunch of your neighbors. For this reason, it seems there are hundreds of zucchini recipes to try...This Zucchini Tomato Casserole might be a good place to start. You can get some free zucchini today (1/16/11) at Daisy Mae's Market at Findlay Market with your $15 purchase.
I hope you've enjoyed our 12 Days of Healthy Foods and that you remember a few of the nutritious tips we've learned. Since we've only touched the tip of the iceberg with 12, I hope you continue to explore other foods and keep healthy eating as one of your resolutions throughout all of 2011.

What's Up, Doc?

Maybe nothing's up with the Doc if you've been eating your carrots. Yes, carrots are the featured item for Day 11 of our 12 Days of Healthy Foods. Bugs Bunny loves 'em and so do we!
Carrots are high in Vitamin A and also a good source of Vitamins K and C, dietary fiber, and potassium. Just like Mom said, carrots really can help you see better. The beta-carotene gives them their color and also helps convert Vitamin A in the body to improve vision...especially at night. Carrots are also an antioxidant, and numerous studies show that carrots reduce the risk of certain cancers. In one study, one carrot per day cut the lung cancer rate in half. Now I'm not saying that carrots are a cure for cancer, but I certainly don't see anything harmful in eating a few carrots each day.
Raw carrots are great for snacking or in salads. But did you know by cooking carrots you increase the nutritional benefits? Cooking breaks down the cellular nature of the carrot so the body can absorb the nutrients better. So if you're looking to cook up a carrot dish tonight, here's a delicious recipe for Glazed Carrots that I recommend. Stop by Daisy Mae's Market at Findlay Market today (1/15/11) and receive a free bag of carrots with your $15 purchase.
That's all, folks!

Garlic Might Keep More than Just Vampires Away!

It's Day 10 of our 12 Days of Healthy Foods, and today we have chosen to feature garlic. Considered both a vegetable and an herb, garlic is related to onions, leeks, and shallots and is one of the handiest ingredients to keep around the kitchen. Its distinct flavor is often just what's needed to make a recipe complete.
You'll remember in the book and movie Dracula, garlic was used to keep the vampires away. Throughout the centuries, however, people have thought garlic would ward off more than just vampires. They thought it might keep away colds, flu, and even the plague! As it turns out, that may have been onto something. Researchers have only begun to tap into the health benefits of garlic, but studies have actually shown that the sulfur-containing compounds that give garlic its smell are also the source of several health-promoting effects. They have found that garlic stimulates T-cells that fight infection so there may be some truth to the antibacterial and antiviral qualities of garlic. Other studies have shown garlic might help manage cholesterol, improve iron metabolism, and even help control blood pressure. Most of these studies are preliminary, but we do know garlic contains manganese, Vitamins B6 and C, and selenium which are all needed for good health.
Garlic may be roasted whole or sliced, minced, crushed, or pressed before cooking. When crushed or minced, let the garlic sit for about 15 minutes before adding it to your dish. Studies have shown that during this brief waiting time, an enzyme reaction is triggered that helps to release the full health benefits.
Pick up some garlic FOR FREE today (1/14/11) with $15 purchase at Daisy Mae's Market at Findlay Market. We bet it will keep the vampires away (and taste good and be good for you at the same time).

So What's With the Straw in the Berries?

We're featuring Strawberries for Day 9 of our 12 Days of Healthy Foods. No one seems to know for sure where the word "strawberry" originated. Some think farmers used straw as mulch to prevent rot around the berries. Other people think that the berries were "strewn" on the ground and that term morphed into "straw." I just know that there's no straw in these berries, but nature has packed them instead with plenty of nutrients.
Strawberries are loaded with health benefits including Vitamin C. In fact, a serving of 8 strawberries contains more Vitamin C than an orange! The flavonoids found in the strawberries give them their red color and their antioxidant characteristics. Several research studies have shown that strawberries protect against inflammation, heart disease, and cancer. They also contribute to eye health, and the United States Food and Drug Administration states that strawberries may slow the decline of age-related loss of cognitive and motor skills. Best of all, strawberries are naturally sweet and low in calories.
Strawberries are delicious eaten whole, used in baking, blended into smoothies, and made into jams. But have you ever had strawberries as part of a green salad? It's a delicious way to break the regular salad routine.
If you visit Daisy Mae's Market today (1/13/11) at Findlay Market, you'll receive free strawberries with your $15 purchase. Pick up some spinach, too, and give this Spinach and Strawberry Salad a try.

Day 8 of 12 Days of Healthy Foods: The Avocado

The NFL playoffs are under way which means the Super Bowl is on the horizon. Did you know avocado sales go through the roof as football fans get ready to watch the big game? Yes, guacamole made with fresh avocados is the favorite game-time snack at hundreds of Super Bowl parties. (Pssst...Don't tell the junk food junkies this is actually a healthy snack...)
Avocados contain a variety of vitamins and minerals and are a good source of monounsaturated fat, the "good" kind of fat. Monounsaturated fats have been found to lower cholesterol and contribute to good heart health. Avocados also contain potassium, and the United States Food and Drug Administration states, "Diets containing foods that are good sources of potassium and low in sodium may reduce the risk of high blood pressure and stroke." Avocados are high in oleic acid which, in some research, has been shown to reduce the risk of breast cancer. In addition, avocados contain more carotenoid lutein than any other common fruit, and lutein has been found to be an important element in preventing macular degeneration, cataracts, and other eye diseases.
At Daisy Mae's Market at Findlay Market, we generally stock the traditional avocado grown in California, Mexico, and Chile (among other places). We also often carry Florida avocados. The Florida avocados are much bigger and shinier than the traditional, and they have less fat and fewer calories. The traditional avocado may seem creamier; the Florida avocado may be easier to slice. We suggest you try both to determine your favorite for your particular need.
Besides guacamole, avocados are great in salads, on sandwiches, and as an ingredient in salad dressings. If you've steered away from avocados because you weren't quite sure how to peel or cut them, take a look at this easy method. In several quick steps, you'll be ready to serve up a super healthy fruit.
Stop by Daisy Mae's today (1/12/11) and pick up a free avocado with your $15 purchase.

Something for Your Sweet Tooth

It's Day 7 of our 12 Days of Healthy Foods. Today we climb to the top of the nutritional chart with sweet potatoes. The Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) ranks the sweet potato #1 in nutrition for vegetables. The sweet potato's ranking is based on its dietary fiber, naturally occurring sugars, complex carbohydrates, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, protein, iron, and calcium all packed into a low-calorie food. We also know that the orange coloring of the sweet potato is caused by betacarotene---a powerful antioxidant. In addition, a baked sweet potato supplies about 20% of an adult's daily potassium requirement, and research has shown that potassium can help regulate blood pressure, reduce the risk of kidney stones, and even decrease bone loss. Sweet potatoes have also been shown to improve blood sugar regulation even in persons with Type 2 diabetes. So if you thought sweet potatoes were only for Thanksgiving, you're wrong!
Sweet potatoes can be baked, roasted, fried, steamed, broiled, or grilled. They're relatively inexpensive, and they make a great addition to soups and stews, too. There's really no excuse not to add sweet potatoes to your weekly grocery list.
If you're reading this in Cincinnati, you know it's pretty wintry today. Wouldn't this be a perfect day for some sweet potato soup? Daisy Mae's Market at Findlay Market is open every day except Monday year-round. Findlay Market only closes when there's a Level 3 Snow Emergency in Cincinnati...and believe me, that doesn't happen very often. So come to Findlay Market today (1/11/11), and we'll toss in some free sweet potatoes with your $15 purchase at Daisy Mae's Market. Now isn't that a sweet deal?

Grapefruit for Day 6 of Our 12 Days of Healthy Foods

On the 6th day of our Healthy Foods, your true love should bring you some grapefruit. Grapefruit is another of those favorite citrus fruits with loads of health benefits and particularly high in Vitamin C. Many studies show that Vitamin C supports the immune system, and it can help fight off those nasty winter colds. Grapefruit is also high in fiber and can help regulate the digestive system.
If you prefer the Ruby Red grapefruit, you're in luck. The red or pink color is caused by lycopene that can help fight oxygen-free radicals that damage cells. Several studies show that lycopene-rich foods can help reduce the risk of prostate, colon, and lung cancer. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice have also been shown in some studies to reduce the risk of calcium oxalate kidney stones. Other research shows evidence that grapefruit may help lower cholesterol. (A word of warning, however, if you take certain medications. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can interfere with the liver's ability to metabolize cholesterol-lowering medications.)
It's easy to either squeeze the grapefruit for juice or to take a serrated knife and just section the grapefruit to eat. But how about adding a little something extra to your breakfast? Try broiling the grapefruit next time for a little added treat.
So today...be a true love, and bring someone special some grapefruit from Daisy Mae's Market at Findlay Market. With your $15 purchase on 1/9/11, you'll receive 3 free grapefruit.

Kale to the Chief (and Everybody Else!)

Day 5 of our 12 Days of Healthy Foods brings us to kale. I think kale is one of those vegetables you either love or hate. If you love kale, you probably always prepare it the same way just because that's the way your family has always done it. Although kale can be eaten raw, roasted, or fried, the simplest method of steaming kale seems to produce the most health benefits. However you decide to prepare kale, it's worth it to your health to include kale in your diet.
Kale is packed with good nutrition. Its rich phytochemical content and 95 different flavonoids (plant nutrients) put kale at the top of the chart for antioxidants and anti-inflammatory foods. Kale shows evidence of lowering the risk of bladder, breast, colon, ovarian, and prostate cancer, and kale also seems to promote eye health and protect against cataracts. It is high in calcium, Vitamin K, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C, and is also a good source of dietary fiber.
But you say, "I have picky eaters in the family who won't eat green stuff!" Well, I have just the suggestion for you. Offer them Kale Chips! This Crispy Kale Recipe might be just the thing to get those stubborn eaters to try something different. In fact, if you shop at Daisy Mae's Market at Findlay Market today (1/8/11), we'll give you some free kale with your $15 purchase so that trying something new and healthy will be good for your pocketbook, too.

Banana-fana-fo-fanna!

It's Day 4 of our 12 Days of Healthy Foods, and we're singing the praises of the banana! Bananas are a great source of energy due to the sugar and fiber content. But don't worry---a medium banana has only about 100 calories (about the same as an apple) so it's still a good choice for a snack.
Bananas are high in potassium which is needed for proper functioning of the heart and nerves. Because bananas are also low in sodium, they're a good choice to help control blood pressure. In addition, bananas aid digestion and help absorb calcium needed to maintain healthy bones.
Researchers have discovered that the tryptophan in bananas may reduce depression. Another research study has shown that when bananas are a regular part of the daily diet, the risk of stroke is reduced by 40%.  Much work needs to be done before these studies are conclusive; however, bananas are undoubtedly one of the least expensive fruits that pack the most nutritional power.
Before the holidays, I made a Banana Banana Bread that I'd highly recommend. It's so easy to do and tastes delicious for breakfast or dessert. You'll find loads of additional banana information at www.chiquita.com. Make sure to check out the Chiquita Jingle...I'm sure it will bring back memories or inspire some budding artists.
And don't forget that today, January 7, 2011, is your lucky day at Daisy Mae's Market at Findlay Market. With your $15 purchase, you'll receive a free bunch of bananas. Now isn't that ap-PEEL-ing for all you banana lovers?

Mom Was Right About Oranges

I've always told my family to drink lots of orange juice when they feel a cold coming on. I'm pretty sure I got that wisdom from my own mother who probably got it from her mother. As it turns out, it's not an "old wives' tale" or "old moms' tale" after all. Oranges are loaded with health benefits.
A single orange can fulfill about 100% of the daily requirement for Vitamin C, and research has shown that the flavonoids, or plant nutrients, found in an orange are potentially beneficial to the human body. The flavonoids trigger enzymes that fight disease so oranges really do offer immune support. In addition, studies have shown that the white part under the peel of an orange may be a good antioxidant.  Additional research says that oranges may lower cholesterol, prevent ulcers, improve eyesight, and help with digestion. Since they come in their own little package that's easy to peel, oranges are a handy snack and can serve as a quick thirst quencher whether eaten whole or squeezed for the juice.
You'll find lots of creative recipes that use citrus fruit on the Sunkist website. You can get everything you need at Findlay Market to make many of those recipes.  If you shop on Thursday, January 6 and spend at least $15 at Daisy Mae's Market, we'll even toss in some oranges for free. I'm tempted to try Blood Orange and Roasted Butternut Squash Kale Salad...If you try it before I do, let me know what you think.

Tomatoes for Good Health

It's Day 2 of our 12 Days of Healthy Foods at Daisy Mae's Market at Findlay Market. Today we're featuring the tomato. No matter whether you classify it as a fruit or a vegetable, the tomato is pretty darn good for you.
Tomatoes are high in Vitamin A and Vitamin C, but those are only two of the nutritional benefits. Tomatoes are also good sources of Vitamin K, potassium, and iron. However, the real health value in the tomato seems to be its lycopene. Lycopene is a vital anti-oxidant that helps fight cancer cell formation, and tomatoes have the highest lycopene levels of all fruits and vegetables. Researchers have shown lycopene protects against colorectal, prostate, breast, endometrial, lung, and pancreatic cancers so tomatoes offer an inexpensive way to add this possible extra layer of protection. And here's even more good news---Cooking the tomatoes actually releases more lycopene, and cooking tomatoes in olive oil increases the absorption of lycopene into your body.
So what are you waiting for? Get to Findlay Market and get some free tomatoes with your $15 purchase today (1/5/10). While you're there, pick up a few of the other ingredients for some Cream of Fresh Tomato Soup. Not only will tomato soup taste great on a winter day, but it will also be another way to add a dose of good health to your diet.

An Apple a Day Keeps the Doctor Away

Since we're ready to begin our 12 Days of Healthy Foods, I thought it was only appropriate that we start at the beginning..."A" is for apple...So away we go!
"A" for apple might very well represent "A" for amazing. There are over 7000 varieties of apples in the world, and it seems there is something for everyone. Different colors, different textures, different sizes, sweet or tart...there's an apple for every preference and every cooking need.
The health benefits of apples have been well-documented. High in Vitamin C and fiber, apples have also been shown to reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol and aid in diabetes management. Researchers have also found that apples help build strong bones; other studies have shown apples reduce asthma attacks; other researchers have shown apples can delay the onset of Alzheimer's disease. Apples have also been shown to aid in weight loss...In one study, researchers showed that those who ate an apple shortly before a meal, ate 15% less at the meal and, thus, were able to lose weight. And, of course, an apple also serves as nature's toothbrush...aiding in keeping teeth clean and gums healthy.
Apples are a ready-to-eat food...so handy to pack in a lunch or take in the car. But, apples are also great in homemade applesauce, in salads, or baked in a variety of recipes. Here's a recipe from Allrecipes.com for Simple Baked Apples that's sure to please everyone in the family.
As part of our 12 Days of Healthy Foods and as a special treat from Daisy Mae's Market...Spend $15 at our Findlay Market location on Tuesday, January 4, and we'll toss in some free apples---just for the health of it!

12 Days of Healthy Foods

January 5 is, for many, considered the 12th day of Christmas. Tradition has it that December 25 is the first day of Christmas and celebrations continue up until the Feast of the Epiphany on January 6. Even if you don't recognize the 12 Days of Christmas, you may feel that you've just experienced your own 12 Days of Overindulgence. If your schedule has at all resembled ours, we've been eating and drinking more in the last few weeks than we have in the previous few months combined. It's time to get back into a more regular routine for meals. It's time to resolve to eat healthy in 2011.

We, at Daisy Mae's Market, are doing our part to encourage you to develop some healthy eating habits. Starting Tuesday, January 4, and for the next 12 days, we will feature one especially nutritious fruit or vegetable each day. We'll write about it; we'll tweet about it; we'll share recipes using our healthy food of the day. And best of all, with a $15 purchase, we'll be giving you that fruit or vegetable FREE on its featured day. 

So make your resolution now...Resolve to plan your meals better, shop at Daisy Mae's at Findlay Market, and prepare healthier foods for you and your family in 2011.
Check back here tomorrow to see what the 1st Day of Healthy Foods will bring!