Fruity Gelatin Gummies

These are a family favorite and a kid-approved healthy snack in my house. When I am not making Elderberry Gummies, this recipe is my go-to for a gut-supportive, nutrient-dense snack. I also love that it takes maybe 5-10 minutes to prep. I love incorporating gelatin into my family’s diet this way. Gelatin is a protein product derived from collagen and besides being super nourishing for the digestive tract, there is evidence that it plays role in joint health and brain function, and may improve the appearance of skin and hair. It is flavorless and colorless and when it dissolves in warm water and takes on a jelly-like texture as it cools.

Makes about 18 gummies

Ingredients:

  • 8 Ounces organic unsweetened 100% fruit juice (I like the Santa Cruz, Lakewood, and RW Knudson brands)*

  • Options: I like to mix it up and even mix juices within the gummy, 4 ounces each, my favorites include pineapple, pomegranate, tart cherry, blueberry, and orange

  • 1/4 cup grass-fed gelatin (I like Great Lakes, Further Foods, and Perfect Supplements)

  • 1 tbsp raw honey (optional)


Directions:

  1. Combine syrup, juice, and gelatin in a medium saucepan.

  2. Heat to medium and stir well until gelatin is completely combined.

  3. Add echinacea drops and honey if included and stir again.

  4. Remove from heat and pour the mixture into silicone molds or a square baking dish.

  5. Refrigerate for 30 minutes or until set.

  6. Pop them out of the molds or cut them into square inch pieces.

  7. Store in refrigerator for up to 10 days.

Enjoy!!!!

*Juices to try for different flavors and their benefits:

  • Orange juice - high in vitamin c, supportive of adrenals (stress) and immunity

  • Pineapple or papaya - contains enzymes that are digestion and inflammation supportive

  • Tart cherry - supportive of melatonin production/sleep and inflammation

  • Pomegranate - high antioxidant content support brain health, inflammation, and sleep


Versatile Cabbage Slaw

I LOVE making a cabbage-based slaw as a side all year round because you can always find in-season ingredients and it can basically go along with any recipe. Cabbage is loaded with nutrients including vitamin C and folate, fiber and is supportive of liver and gut health. I make a big batch of this at least once a week to eat as a side or garnish. Here is my go-to recipe. I swap out ingredients depending on what I have on hand. ⁠

Prep time: 20ish minutes

Yield: 8-10 servings


Ingredients:

  • Red, green, napa or savoy cabbage, chopped - 6-8 cups⁠

  • Bunch of cilantro, chopped fine - more if you like cilantro⁠!

  • 1/2 - 1 red onion, sliced thinly (depends on how much onion you like!)

  • Bunch of red radishes or large daikon, thinly sliced into half-moons⁠

  • Sesame seeds or pumpkin seeds- as many as you'd like for color, interest, and flavor⁠

  • Apple cider vinegar, a splash

  • Juice of 2 limes or lemons⁠

  • Extra-virgin olive oil or Avocado oil, a few glugs, or about 1/4 cup⁠

  • Sea salt and pepper to taste⁠

Cabbage slaw in a yellow bowl

Directions:

Combine all veggies in a large bowl, add spices and liquids, combine, taste, and refine as needed.⁠⁠

Other potential additions or swaps:

  • Sliced or shredded carrots

  • Chopped celery

  • Thinly sliced cucumbers

  • Chopped nuts

  • Seeds⁠

  • Chopped dried fruits⁠

  • Chopped apple

  • Chopped pear

  • Chopped or grated garlic⁠

  • Thinly sliced green onion⁠

  • Different spices⁠

  • Different kinds of vinegar

Any other ideas? Let me know!

Slippery Elm Tea

Slippery elm bark is an herb that was originally used by Native Americans to treat symptoms associated with gastrointestinal upset, cough, and sore throats.

  1. Fill a teapot with 12 oz. water and bring the water to a boil.

  2. Add 2 tbsp. slippery elm bark powder to the mug.

  3. Pour the boiling water into the mug. Allow the slippery elm bark to steep in the water for three minutes.

  4. Stir the tea with a spoon for one minute, then allow the slippery elm bark to steep for another minute before drinking

tea.jpg