Dinner Tonight

Dinner Tonight

Healthy Cooking for a Healthy Texas

Coffee

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Coffee has become so popular that researchers are evaluating the trend-setting beverage.  Take a look at some of the health benefits that have been associated with coffee.

  • Increase Energy Levels
  • Lower Risk Of Depression
  • Promote Weight Management
  • Support Brain Health
  • Enhance Athletic Performance
  • Protect Against Chronic Diseases

Try our Coffee Smoothie!

It is important to regularly clean your coffee maker for the longevity of the maker, for your health, and for your favorite cup of brew. Coffee buildup can cause bitter tasting coffee, which is a sign of, bacterial growth, yeast, mold, and mineral deposits to slow the functions of your coffee maker.

If you have noticed bitter-tasting coffee, longer than normal brew time, extra grounds in your cup, and a moldy smell, chances are your coffee maker is long overdue for a cleaning. Follow the easy and inexpensive steps to clean your appliance and start enjoying your coffee again.

Traditional Drip-Pot Coffee Maker

  1. Wash all removable parts to your appliance with warm soapy water.
  2. Decalcify your appliance every month by using water and vinegar. Fill the reservoir with equal parts of water and vinegar.
  3. Add a filter to the brewing basket.
  4. Turn on the coffee maker to brew only to the half pot line.
  5. Turn off the coffee maker and let the remaining vinegar solution sit for 30-60 minutes to release any mineral deposits.
  6. Continue with the brewing and dispose of the brewed vinegar solution.
  7. Repeat the process 2 more times with only water to rinse away any remaining vinegar.

Single Serve Coffee Maker

  1. Wash all removable parts to your appliance with warm, soapy water.  Use a toothbrush to clean any grounds around the pod holder.
  2. If reusable filters are used, gently brush the filter with vinegar and water.
  3. Replace the reservoir and fill it with equal parts of water and vinegar.
  4. Place a mug and set the coffee maker to brew at the largest (cup size) setting. Dispose of brewed vinegar.
  5. Brew half of the water and vinegar solution, and let the remaining sit in the appliance for 1-2 hours.
  6. Continue with the brewing until all the vinegar is disposed of.
  7. Repeat steps 2 more times with only water to rinse away any remaining vinegar.

According to scientists at the FDA, caffeine can be part of a healthy diet for most people, but too much caffeine may pose a danger to your health. Depending on factors such as body weight, medications you may take, and individual sensitivity, “too much” can vary from person to person.

Learn more about caffeine from the FDA. 

Please consult a physician or a registered dietitian if you have questions about how much caffeine is right for you.

Sources:

Healthline.com 

Bhg.com

Goodhousekeeping.com

FDA

Coffee Smoothie

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This delicious smoothie is a perfect start to your day or break-time in the afternoon. Use your leftover coffee as the main ingredient, blend, and enjoy!


Coffee Smoothie
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Servings
2 2 cups
Servings
2 2 cups
Coffee Smoothie
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Servings
2 2 cups
Servings
2 2 cups
Ingredients
Servings: 2 cups
Units:
Instructions
  1. Combine all ingredients in a blender; blend until smooth. The amount of ice will vary depending on desired consistency. Pour into a glass and serve chilled.
  2. Tips: Place individually frozen ripe bananas in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Always peel before storing. Storing over ripe bananas can be used later in smoothies or recipes. Save leftover coffee in the refrigerator for an afternoon pick me up iced coffee or smoothie for the next day's breakfast. You can also store coffee in ice cube trays to freeze and use for smoothies. Add a scoop of your favorite protein powder for additional nutrition. (Food label will differ)
Recipe Notes

Conversations: National Coffee Day

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Today is National Coffee Day, and increasing research suggests that coffee in moderation may have several health benefits (I’ll drink to that). 

4-national-coffee-day

Beware of sugary syrups, cream, and other additives that can make drinks an unhealthy choice.  As Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D. of the Mayo Clinic explains, 

“A plain cup of brewed coffee has only 2 calories — and no fat. But if you dress up your coffee with extras, whether at home or your favorite coffee shop, you also add extra calories.

See how many calories 1 tablespoon of these extras can add:

  • Heavy whipping cream: 52 calories
  • Table sugar: 49 calories
  • Half-and-half: 20 calories
  • Fat-free milk: 5 calories

When you’re at your local coffee shop, check out the nutrition information before you order. Some drinks are more like dessert and can have hundreds of calories. Occasional indulgence is fine. But remember that when it comes to weight loss, all calories count — even calories in liquid form.”

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Mocha Rubbed Pot Roast

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Coffee and beef may seem like unlikely partners, but this recipe makes them the perfect pair. This is not your average pot roast, it has so much flavor! You will smell the aroma of the coffee and spices as soon as you walk in the door. You will also feel good that you are feeding your family a healthy meal full of protein and vitamins. This pot roast goes perfectly with Mint Sugar Snap Peas and a whole-wheat roll.

Mocha Rubbed Pot Roast
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Beef roast is an great option for slow cooking and braising due to it being a less tender cut.
Servings Prep Time
8 5 minutes
Cook Time
6 hours
Servings Prep Time
8 5 minutes
Cook Time
6 hours
Mocha Rubbed Pot Roast
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Beef roast is an great option for slow cooking and braising due to it being a less tender cut.
Servings Prep Time
8 5 minutes
Cook Time
6 hours
Servings Prep Time
8 5 minutes
Cook Time
6 hours
Ingredients
Mocha Rub
Roast
Servings:
Units:
Instructions
  1. Rub- Mix all coffee, paprika, and all other spices in a shallow dish.
  2. Pat the roast with a paper towel. Rub mixture over the the roast and rub it in well with your hands.
  3. Pour coffee, broth, onion, honey and balsamic vinegar into the slow cooker. Place the roast with the slow cooker and broth mixture . Cook for 6-7 hours on low. *You can serve the roast with or without the liquid.
Recipe Notes

Mocha Rubbed Pot Roast Label