The history of salted French caramel dates back to the 14th century and is grounded in a story about kings and taxes.
In 1343, King Philip VI of Valois created a national salt tax known as the Gabelle, making salt a luxury that only the rich could afford. As a result, butter became unsalted. However, there were certain "free counties" exempted from this tax, including Brittany, the current salt capital of France.
This salt tax led to one positive outcome: the invention of salted butter caramel, a salty sweet delight, which originated in Brittany, believed to have been invented by legendary chocolatier and caramel-maker, Henri Le Roux. In 1980, salted butter caramel was voted the best candy in France.
Today, you can find caramel candies and lollipops and pots of caramel in shops and grocery stores throughout France.
Pear Health Benefits
Improves digestion due to soluble fiber content
Low calorie fruit
Filled with antioxidants
High source of vitamin C and vitamin A
Great source of potassium, which supports heart health
Improves circulation
Anti-inflammatory
Squash Health Benefits
– High in vitamin A and vitamin C, as well as B6, niacin, thiamin and folate.
– Squash is high in minerals like magnesium, potassium, manganese, copper, calcium and iron.
– Good source of carotenoids and anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds.
– Squash helps regulate blood sugar due to B vitamins and pectin content.
– Protects heart health due to high levels of potassium and the iron and copper helps regulate flood circulation.
Shiitake Health Benefits
Anti-inflammatory
Cancer fighting properties
Immune system support
Good source of protein
Low in calories
High in minerals
High in B vitamines (the only non animal source of vitamin B12), copper, riboflavin, niacin, B5+B6, selenium, manganese, zinc, folate and vitamin D
Natural source of sterols, eritadenine and beta glucans which helps block and lower cholesterol absorption
May lower blood pressure
Antibacterial and antiviral properties
Vitamins and Food Sources That Support the Immune System
Vitamin C
Blackcurrants
Parsley
Bell peppers
Kale
Broccoli
Red cabbage
Papaya
Litchi
Strawberries
Cauliflower
Brussel Sprouts
Pineapple
Kiwi
Mango
Chestnuts
Sweet potatoes
Beta-Carotene (Vitamin A)
Fish liver oil
Chicken liver
Sweet potato
Carrots
Pumpkin/Squash
Spinach
Apricots
Mango
Melon
Vitamin D
Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, tuna, herring
Cod liver oil
Oysters
Shrimps
Egg yolks
Veal
Shiitake
Fortified milks, yogurt, cheeses
Antioxidants
Dark chocolate
Pecans
Matcha
Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries
Artichokes
Goji berries
Kale
Red cabbage
Beans
Beets
Spinach
Watermelon Health Benefits
Hydration. Watermelon in 92% water and also supports satiety.
Anti-inflammatory
Anti-oxidant
Supports eye health
May help with muscle soreness
High and vitamin C and A, which supports skin and hair
Can improve digestion due to high fiber content
High levels of lycopene can help protect cells from damage and may help lower the risk of heart disease.
Barbecue Rib Tips
– Choose ribs that are plump and meaty. Avoid ribs with exposed bones.
– Remove the membrane before cooking as it impedes absorption of flavor and is quite tough to eat.
– Always pre cook ribs in the oven in foil before setting on grill. See recipe for details.
- Apply layers of flavor. Pre marinating, basting and again covering with sauce at the end.
– When grilling ribs on fire, use indirect heat: Move ribs away the hottest part of the fire, slightly to the side. Low and slow is the way to go.
– Let ribs rest after taking them off the grill. This allows the moisture to build up from the juicing running out as you cut them.
– While it's good to baste the ribs while the cook with a mixture of the rib rub and the juices leftover from precooking, it's best to add the majority of the wet rub after cooking so it doesn't burn on the grill
Peas Health Benefits
High in antioxydants that protect the body from free radical damage (think pollution, toxic chemicals in food and water and solar damage).
One of the best plant-based protein sources
Supports healthy blood pressure (low glycemic index food)
High fibre content supports heart and gut health
*Peas are not a low FODMAP food and can cause bloating in some. It is also higher in anti nutrients that can interfere with nutrient absorption, so these with digestive absorption issues should eat peas with “controlled” abandon
Elderberry Pagan Folklore
According to pagan lore, the Elder Mother spirit inhabits the the elder tree and it was said that those who fell asleep under its branches would enter the fairy realm through their dreams.
Elderberry wood protects from emotional attacks and branches hung above doors protects from bad spirits.
Elderberries are used in blessing rituals and are considered born from a feminine tree governed by Venus and the element of water.
Cucumber Health Benefits
Hydration (cucumbers are 96% water)
Fights heartburn symptoms
Assists in flushing toxins
High in vitamin A, B and C, magnesium, potassium, and silicon
Helps stabalize blood pressure and blood sugar
Helps lower cholesterol
Supports joint health
Relieves sun burns
Rose Petal Poached Peaches
Peel peaches and place in large saucepan. Cover entirely with water, add 3 tablespoons of honey or sugar and a small handful of fragrance rose petals.
Gently simmer for 15 minutes.
Remove peaches from water (you can reserve the liquid for cocktails and champagne mixers) and chill.
Slice and serve atop panna cotta after it has hardened and set.
Enzyme-Rich Food Sources:
Bee Pollen
Papaya
Avocado
Pineapple
Fermented Vegetables
Melons
Mango
Kiwi
Grapes Avocado
Kefir
Wheat Grass
Coconut Water
Raw Honey
Flaxseed
Aloe Vera
Cucumbers
Garlic
Ginger Root
Barley Grass
Chlorella
Spirulina
Sigs
Sprouts
Shitake, Reishi and Maitake mushrooms
Cod Health Benefits
High source of vitamin B12.
Excellent substitute for meat protein, with one serving containing over 40% of daily protein needs, with approximately 21 grams per 4 ounce serving.
High in iodine, selenium, phosphorus, choline and vitamin B3
Supports heart health as vitamins B12 and B6 keeps homocysteine (a molecule that can damage blood vessels) levels low.
Shiitake Health Benefits
Anti-inflammatory
Cancer fighting properties
Immune system support
Good source of protein
Low in calories
High in minerals
High in B vitamines (the only non animal source of vitamin B12), copper, riboflavin, niacin, B5+B6, selenium, manganese, zinc, folate and vitamin D
Natural source of sterols, eritadenine and beta glucans which helps block and lower cholesterol absorption
May lower blood pressure
Antibacterial and antiviral properties
Cauliflower Health Benefits
High source of vitamin C
Also a high source folate, vitamin K, vitamin E, and B vitamins, manganese and omega-3 fatty acids
Cauliflower fights oxidative stress
Supports cardiovascular health by helping to maintain good blood flow (due to presence of vitamin K)
Anti-inflammatory
Boosts immunity
Supports healthy digestion due to high fiber content, also helping to eliminate toxins from body
Helps to fight respiratory viruses
Skin support. Cauliflower helps skin fight against UV damage (due to sulforaphane content)
Health Benefits of (Wild) Salmon
High in Omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, potassium, and selenium
Great source of protein
Contains the antioxidant astaxanthin
May reduce the risk of heart disease and benefit weight loss
Supports nervous system and brain health
Fights inflammation
Health Benefits of Scallops
– Scallops are over 80% protein.
– High in vitamin B12. Only about two scallops contains 100% of our daily need of vitamin B12, essential for cardiovascular health and helps to repair damaged blood vessels.
– Scallops are also high in iodine, omega-3 fatty acid, phosphorus, selenium and choline.
Health Benefits of Crab
– Promotes bone health with high levels of calcium and phosphorus.
– Contains a diverse range of nutrients including copper, vitamin B12 and omega-3 fatty acid that support cardiovascular and nervous system health.
– Excellent source of protein.
– Good source of selenium, which plays a key role in the body's antioxidant and metabolic systems. 100g of crabmeat contains over 100% the daily recommended value of selenium for men and women.
Fire Pit Cooking Tips
- Use dried hardwood (like oak, cherry wood, and apple wood). It will burn hotter and longer than soft woods like pine and spruce. While pine resin smells nice, the aromas can leave an unpleasant aftertaste in food. You can add flavor by adding water soaked wood chips like hickory.
- Use fatwood or kindling to start fire. Try to avoid using chemical starters.
- When stacking wood, allow space for airflow. Air is the secret to allowing the fire to grow. Lightly blow on flames to help them spread.
- Grill on hot embers, not open flames. Along flames to die down slightly after starting. If you want to cook food more slowly, use indirect heat, placing meat, fish or vegetables along the edges of the grill.
Hydrotherapy Benefits
Relief from pain, swelling and stiffness
Boosts the immune system
Encourages detoxification
Non weight bearing exercise
Promotion of relaxation
Joint mobilisation
Cardiovascular fitness (heart and lungs)
Muscle strengthening, maintenance & restoration
Increase in range of motion of affected joints
Improved circulation
Muscle relaxation with heat
Reduces swelling in limbs with hydrostatic pressure
Water buoyancy increases stiff joint mobility with minimal exercise.
Post-operative rehabilitation and increased recovery time
Relief for upper Respiratory Infections
Increases endorphin production
Improves sleep
Headache prevention
Balances blood sugar levels
Fig Health Benefits
Good source of magnesium, manganese, calcium, copper, and potassium, K and B6.
Can lower blood pressure (due to potassium).
Filled with antioxidants which help to neutralize free radicals.
Good source of fiber.
Figs promotes heart health.
Helps lower cholesterol.
Figs are an excellent nutritional source for pregnant women.
Rose Petal Poached Peaches
Peel peaches and place in large saucepan. Cover entirely with water, add 3 tablespoons of honey or sugar and a small handful of fragrance rose petals.
Gently simmer for 15 minutes.
Remove peaches from water (you can reserve the liquid for cocktails and champagne mixers) and chill.
Slice and serve atop panna cotta after it has hardened and set.
Asparagus Health Benefits
Good source of vitamin K, that has anti-clotting properties
Anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties
Natural diuretic
Supports a healthy digestive tract. Because inulin in asparagus doesn’t fully break down during digestion, it helps to flush the intestine and because a source for healthy bacteria
Pregnancy food as a high source of folate
Good source of fiber
Contains carcinogenic detoxifying properties
Science behind crystal healing. How crystals work. Crystal properties. Science behind crystals. Crystal Science. Crystal healing. Crystal magic.
Rusty's Gory Tomato Juice Recipe
Tomatoes (as many as you like!)
Celery (a few stalks)
Parsley (handful)
Greens (Kale, spinach)
Blend away and drink immediately!
Tomato Health Facts (1)
High in Vitamin C, supports heart health and is cancer fighting due to high antioxidants in tomatoes
Biotin (essential B Vitamin that strengthens hair and nails)
Molybdenum (essential mineral associated with increased longevity) (2)
Vitamin K
Vitamin A (in the form of beta-carotene), Fights cancer, specifically colon and prostate.
Potassium, lowers blood pressure and fights diabetes by balancing insulin
Melon Health Benefits
Supports skin and hair health with high vitamin C and vitamin A content, both of which are essential in the synthesis of collagen
Anti-aging properties
Melons are an alkaline food that help to neutralize acidity in the body caused by stress and illness
Supports digestive health
Melons have a high mineral content
Diuretic properties that support kidney health
Energy boosting due to presence of B vitamins
Anti-cancer properties due to high levels of carotenoids.
Melon supports heart health because of anticoagulant properties of adenosine present in the fruit, which can help to stop clotting that can lead to heart disease or stroke
Salicornia Health Benefits
Also known as "asparagus of the sea" this salty, bitter, yet savory little sea vegetable is packed with nutritious health benefits and can be eaten raw (with sandwiches or in a salad) or lightly sautéed and incorporated into eggs, risottos or with potato or pasta dishes.
Cooking Notes: Make sure not to overcook the salicornia as it will destroy the flavor. And be careful when adding salt as it is already naturally imbued with salt from the ocean.
- Edible plants found near the ocean have a better balance of amino acids than land-based plants.
- Salicornia is high in complex carbohydrates and low in fat and calories.
- Excellent source of B-complex vitamins vitamin C, and vitamin A.
- Good source of minerals, calcium, iodine and iron and is a good supplement for people who do not eat enough seafood and need more iodine in their diet.
Rosemary Tincture Recipe
Ingredients
(1 handful of rosemary branch/ 1/2 cup per cup liquid)
Organic Apple Cider Vinegar (pictures above) or high proof Alcohol such as vodka or brandy
Organic, Fresh Rosemary
Sterilised jars
Recipe
Remove rosemary from branches, chop and place inside sterilized jars and pour liquid over herb and seal from six weeks to one year. Strain rosemary leaves when infused to your liking (you need a minimum of six weeks for the herbs to properly infuse) and take a few drops under the tongue when sick or in need of immune boosting. Herbs are not to be taken lightly, use only when necessary as with antibiotics.
Store in cool, dark place. And remember that the tincture expiration date for vinegar and vodka is much shorter than alcohol tinctures, lasting around one year
Ginger Shot: Ginger root about the size of your hand (X2 if you want to make a few shots) + 1 apple
Green Boost: 1/2 cucumber, 4 handfuls of spinach + 1 tablespoon spirulina powder
Cumin Elixir: 2 oranges, 2 tablespoons Turmeric + 1 teaspoon black pepper powder
Antioxidant Hormone Balance Boost: 1/2 cup pomegranate juice, handful of blueberries + 1/2 tablespoon Maca powder
Aloe Flush: 1 aloe leaf (1/4 cup aloe juice) + 1 lemon
Immune Boost: 2 clementine + 2 carrots + 1/2 teaspoon zinc powder
Liver Health Elixir: 2 beets + 1 tablespoon turmeric powder + handful of spinach + 1 Apple
Hangover Cure: 1/2 cup coconut water + 1 teaspoon sea salt + 2 beets + 1 celery branch + 1 handful spinach
Headache Reliever: 3 beets + 1 green apple + 1 cucumber + bushel of watercress + 1 lemon
Strawberry+Chocolate Stress Relieving smoothie juice: 3 celery branches + handful of strawberries + 1 banana + green tea powder + 1 tablespoon raw cacao powder
