Make Your Own Monday: Pickled Veggies

 Making homemade pickled veggies is easy peasy, cost-effective, and of course hella good! Making your own food means you are insuring the quality of the ingredients and the sanitariness of the process all the while empowering yourself and saving money.

 

You will need:

• veggies of your choice ( I like cucumbers, jalapenos, and carrots)
• garlic
• seasonings of your choice
• salt 2 tsp per cup of vinegar (you need this to fight bacteria, don't skip it)
• vinegar of your choice (I like white vinegar and apple cider vinegar

To prepare these: I washed and chopped my veggies into sizes I like. Then put them in a jar with some garlic and seasonings. Filled up the jar with vinegar, put the top on, and put them in the fridge.Then I waited for the vinegar to do it's magic. They were ready in an hour, but became more "pickled" as the days passed.

Tip: You can buy pickling seasoning from the store for a more traditional pickle taste. However,I like to experiment with my own flavors. One of the best things about this is that you can try different varieties of veggies, vinegars, and seasonings to see what you like the best. I am currently loving English cucumbers, jalapenos, and garlic in half white vinegar half apple cider vinegar. Simple, spicy, and delicious. 

This is a great one to get the kids involved in. They love to see the changes in color and texture the veggies go through, and of course they love to eat them. What's up with kids and pickles?



Note: These are refrigerator pickles, and should be kept cold to inhibit harmful bacteria. They can be kept for up to 2 months. 

There are many other types you can make. This link has more information pickle making and some great recipes. Check it out!

XOXO, 

Riss

Questions? Comments? Suggestions? Share them below!

Universally Delicious Pancakes: Gluten-Free Folks, Dairy-Free Peoples, Vegans, Vegetarians, Omnivores Rejoice; This Recipe is For You All!

Fluffy, check! Moist, check! Nutritious, check!

These pancakes are so amazing, you won't believe that they are healthy. This recipe utilizes whole grains, in the form of oats, fruit for fiber, eggs and yogurt for protein, and coconut oil for overall nutrition. You can adapt them to be gluten-free, vegan, or vegetarian easily. The ones pictured here are gluten-free. 

Homemade Healthy Pancakes Recipe

Dry Ingredients
1 cup oatmeal (use gluten-free whole rolled oats)
1 cup flour (I use gluten free flour from Trader Joe's)

2 tsp baking powder

1/2 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients
2 ripe bananas or 1 cup apple sauce
2 eggs (if you're vegan omit these, the bananas or apple sauce will do the same job)
3/4 cup milk (I use almond)
3/4 greek yogurt (I use coconut greek yogurt, you can find it at Whole Foods)
1/4 cup of coconut oil 

1 Tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp almond extract

To prepare these:

I used my Vitamix blender, but you can also use a food processor. First, I blended the oatmeal until it made a fine powder. Then added in the other dry ingredients. Next, in a bowl I mashed the bananas and combined all the wet ingredients. Then, also in a bowl, I combined the wet and dry ingredients being careful not to overmix. 

To cook these: 
Heat your pan or griddle on medium to medium high heat. When a drop of water evaporates quickly you will know it is hot enough. Pour your mixture onto the pan and monitor your pancakes closely. When the top is full of bubbles, and the edges begin to firm up, flip them. If it is hard to flip them, they may not be ready. Once flipped, cook for only about 30 more seconds.Continue the process until you're out of batter, or save the batter for the next day. I wouldn't go beyond two days though. 

Tip: I like to double or even triple the dry ingredients, and keep them on hand to make the next batch even easier to whip up. 

Next, sit down, give thanks, and grub! 

XOXO, 

Riss

Questions? Comments? Suggestions? Share them below!

MYOM: Fabric Softener Crystals and Epsom Salt Uses and Benefits

Have you seen Purex Crystals Laundry Enhancer? It is the latest thing in laundry news. You pop these crystals in, and your days messy liquid softener and of waiting to add the fabric softener until the rinse cycle are gone. Well, I have an even better option than that, and this one is *sound the trumpets* truly all natural, toxin free, and smells so so good. Purex's version, not even close. That stuff contains all kinds of synthetic ingredients including their fragrances and colors. No bueno! 


My version has just three ingredients. 

You will need: 

• 1 cup of epsom salt
• 1 Tablespoon Kaolin or Bentonite Clay
• 5 drops each of orange, peppermint, and On Guard essential oils. (These are just my choices, you should go with your nose and needs. On guard is an all purpose immunity blend made by doTerra) 

You can also make a version without the clay. Here's a pic of that version. Why would you want to make it without the clay? Maybe you don't like clay. Seriously, you may not just keep clay on hand, so try this version first, and when you fall in love, and you will. You can consider adding the clay for its super cleansing properties. 

Here's what to do:

Put the epsom salt in the glass container of your choosing. Then add the essential oils and shake it, shake it, shake it like a Polaroid picture. The salt will begin to glisten when the essential oil is properly dispersed. If you aren't adding clay, you're done. If you are using clay, add the clay and shake again. That's it! 

How to use:
Add it to your wash at the beginning of the cycle. I like to add it to the water, to insure proper dispersal. 

If you have super sensitive skin, this should be fine. I chose the Kaolin clay with you in mind. I also made the recipe small, so you all could experiment until You came up with the perfect scent and cleansing combination for You. Lastly, this is an addition to, not a replacement for your regular detergent. Don't want you blaming me when your clothes are still dirty (although they would be dirty and smelling hella good).  

Happy Laundering!

XOXO, 
Riss

Want to know more great uses for epsom salt? Check out this blog post on all things epsom salt!

Questions? Comments? Suggestions? Do Share! 

MYOM: Homemade Baby Powder and Body Acne Scrub

For this week's Make Your Own Monday. I am bringing you some great recipes from two of my favorite blogs. 

This first is a homemade calming baby powder from our friends over at Naturally Mindful. This is the perfect replacement from commercial baby powders, which can be harmful. 

This would make an awesome baby shower gift, and can, of course, be used by adults in exchange for any baby powder needs you may have. Check it out! Click the link or the picture, they both will get you there! 

http://naturallymindful.com/2014/03/homemade-calming-baby-powder.html

This next recipe comes for our friends over at Hug A Tree with Me. It is a simple body Scrub you can use to battle body acne. All of the ingredients are probably already in your kitchen. Give it a try! Click the link or the picture. 

                      http://www.hugatreewithme.com/honeyed-baking-soda-scrub-for-body-acne/

Happy Monday, 

Riss

MYOM: Anti-Cellulite Coffee Scrub Cubes

You read that right coffee scrub cubes. We are turning this scrub into a solid for easy dosing, easy handling, less mess, less waste,  and because this way they look hella fresh and make for really nice gifts! 

Coffee is the main ingredient in these amazing scrub cubes that will have you daisy duke ready in no time. The caffeine promotes circulation, which aids in the treatment of the dreaded dimpling known as cellulite. The coffee combined with two powerful exfoliators: sugar and salt, and the nourishing properties of coconut oil, make this scrub a win-win-win-win! 

I recommend you use this scrub at least twice a week, and take care to massage the area thoroughly for best results. Cellulite is caused by bloated fat cells in the body that are starved of blood flow, the coffee temporarily dehydrates these cells resulting in a smoother appearance.  

You will need: 

• 1 cup of coconut oil (This oil is amazing for your body. If you want more information about it, read this article to learn more)
• 1 cup of freshly ground coffee
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup sea salt 
• an ice cube tray, muffin tin, or other mold

Here's what to do:

First you need to melt your coconut oil.  I don't like to use the microwave, so I just place the jar in hot water for a few minutes. Next, combine the coffee, sugar, and salt. I like to use my hands in order to break up any clumps in the brown sugar. Add the coconut oil to the coffee mix. Then transfer the mix to your mold of your choice. Pop them in the freezer until the coconut oil hardens, about 30 minutes. Then put them in a plastic bag or jar and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until ready to use. 




How to use:

Massage into clean skin in a circular motion focusing on your trouble spots. Massage for at least 5 minutes remembering the key is increasing circulation. 

One last thing! Oil + Water = A Hella Slippery Shower Floor. Be careful! 

Happy Scrubbing!

XOXO, 
Riss

Questions? Comments? Suggestions? Do Share! 

Make Your Own Monday: Raw Vanilla Almond Butter

Yesterday, I went to get some almond butter for my waffle, and happened upon an empty jar. After the initial shock wore off, I decided to make my own. It's quite simple, fast, and delish! 

Raw Vanilla Almond Butter Recipe

2 cups raw almonds

2 Tablespoons coconut oil

1/8 tsp almond extract

1/4 tsp vanilla extract 

1 Tablespoon maple syrup (optional)

I used my Vitamix blender, but you can also use a food processor. First, blend the almonds. They will go through several phases. First, becoming a powder. Then doughy. This is when you add the oil and extracts. As it mixes and heats up, it will become liquid (like the small picture on the bottom right of the collage). This made it easy to pour out of the blender. Once it's cooled, it will solidify. 





That's all. Now, where's my waffle?

If you're interested in more information on the benefits of almond butter, check out this article.


XOXO, 

Riss

Questions? Comments? Suggestions? Share them below!

Hella White Teeth: Oil Pulling the Hella Natural Way

It seems that the ancient Ayurvedic practice of oil pulling has gone viral. I was excited to see that many people are now interested in this wonderful practice. I have been doing it for many years now, and while I can't say it does all the things some of these posts have promised, I will say it leaves my mouth feeling good and helps whiten my teeth. 

So, Riss, What is Exactly is Oil Pulling?

Sometimes called yoga's little sister, Ayurveda is the traditional natural healing system of India. It focuses on healing the causes of imbalance, not the symptoms.  Oil pulling is an ancient Ayurvedic practice where you basically swish oil around in your mouth for about 20 minutes. Then spit it out, brush your teeth, and go on your merry way with your clean white teeth, and healthy mouth. 

The oil is supposed to pull toxins out of your body through your mouth, hence the "pulling" in the name. I personally don't know about this part, but many people swear it works. Don't believe me, google "oil pulling benefits", and see what pops up. 

When I started oil pulling I used sesame oil, which is traditionally used in Ayurveda for a multitude of functions. It was okay, but once that bottle was done I moved on to coconut oil, and haven't looked back. 

I make my own blend with tumeric and peppermint essential oil. These two things just add to the freshness of my oil, and my breath. Tumeric is a wonder root, that contains curcumin that is said to potentially be able to treat many diseases including: cancer, arthritis, diabetes, and allergies. Peppermint essential oil, also touts an impressive resume, but honestly I am just using her for her smell-good properties. Again, I am unsure of any of these things are true, but I say adding wonderful ingredients like this to something already as awesome as coconut oil can't hurt. Don’t know how awesome coconut oil is? Read this. 

Things to Be Aware Of:

1. Having a blob of coconut oil in your mouth will make you want to gag. Let it melt before you start swishing. I use about 2 teaspoons.
2. Many people say don't spit it in the sink, either because the swished oil is so full of toxins it can contaminate your life, or because it will stop up your septic tank. I don't believe either of these are true, and hate to spit in general, so I just spit it in the sink. You do, you!
3. Tumeric stains EVERYTHING, except teeth (go figure). Be careful and be prepared for a neon yellow toothbrush. 
4. You may receive a miracle like some people you might have read about, or you may just end up with great teeth and a happy dentist. 

My Recipe for Tumeric Peppermint Coconut Pulling Oil 

1/2 cup unrefined organic coconut oil

1 Tablespoon tumeric (you can buy this anywhere they sell spices. I got mine at Trader Joe's)

10 drops peppermint essential oil 

All you need to do it blend it all up. I used a blender, but you could melt the coconut oil and mix it all together. Once it's cooled it will solidify. Like the picture at the top.

That's all. Now, commence swishing! 

That's me, and my hella fresh mouth!
No filter, just natural light from the window

XOXO, 

Riss

Questions? Comments? Suggestions? Share them below!

Make Your Own Monday (MYOM): Four Ingredient Shave Cream

It's that time of the year; the weather is warming up, shorts are coming out, and you don't want to be stuck looking as hairy as Punxutaney Phil. You know, the groundhog, who predicted the coming of the season. No, you want to be smooth and silky. 

I have the solution for you in this simple, yet effective shave cream, and the best part? You probably have all these things in your home already.

You will need:

• 1/2 cup of coconut oil (This oil is amazing for your body. If you want more information about it, read this article to learn more)
• 1/2 Tablespoon  of olive oil 
• 1 Tablespoon cornstarch (optional, but adds to the silky feeling you seek) 
• Essential oils (optional, but highly recommended) I used 10 drops of grapefruit!

Here's what to do:
This is best if your coconut oil is solid. Coconut oil starts to melt at 76 degrees F.  If it's melted pop it in the fridge for a few minutes.  Next, you will need to mix the coconut oil and the olive oil together until smooth. I used a fork because my blender would have turned this into soup. Anyway, once the oils are combined add the cornstarch, it will stiffen it up a little and add some silkiness. Lastly, add the essential oil. That's it you're done!

For clarity's sake, this is not going to be a fluffy cream like you would buy in the store. Once you touch it, it will begin to melt. Remember 76 degrees? That being said, it is awesome, and will leave you silky, smooth, and best of all toxin-free! Your store brand will, likely, not be able to promise the last one. 

One last thing! Oil + Water = A Hella Slippery Shower Floor. Be careful! 

Keep it Smooth and Silky, 
Riss

P.S. This is also great for man-scaping! If you're a man, and you read this far. Kudos! Give this a try! If you're a woman, share it with the men in your life they (even if it's secretly) want to be smooth and silky too!



Questions? Comments? Suggestions? Do Share! 

"Make Your Own" Monday (MYOM): Simple 3 Ingredient Sugar Scrub

No need to spend money on store bought body scrubs, that are loaded with preservatives that can harm your body, when you can simply and easily Make Your Own. This easy recipe can bring about great changes. It's fast, simple, effective, inexpensive, and safe enough to eat! (Please don't eat it, though.) 

Exfoliation (getting rid of dead skin) should be a part of your self care routine. Why? Our skin is our largest organ, and it is constantly exposed. You lose skin cells constantly, and without proper exfoliation your skin can look lackluster and ashen, not to mention the dirt that your soap misses. Using a scrub a couple of times a week is one of the easiest ways to take care of your skin, and give it its rightfully glowing appearance. You can whip this one up in less than 5 minutes using things you probably already have around the house. Let's get started! 


You will need:

• 1 cup of brown or raw sugar
• 6-10 Tablespoons of coconut oil (This oil is amazing for your body, if you don't have any, then: olive, grapeseed, or almond will do. However, when you get some time I recommend you get you some of this amazing stuff. If you don't know about it, read this article to learn more)
• Essential oils (optional) I used 10 drops of lime and 5 drops of peppermint (Smells like Coco-Mojito)

Here's what to do:
If the coconut oil has hardened, simply melt it. Then add the coconut oil to the sugar, and mix. I encourage you to stop after 6 tablespoons and check the consistency. Then decide how much more to add. Store bought scrubs tend to be oil-heavy; you should choose the consistency that you like. I tend to add just enough to coat the sugar without having it swimming in oil. Once its mixed to your liking, you can add in the essential oils you like. (If you don't have any of these on hand the coconut oil smells fantastic on its own.) That's it you're done. Now go spoil yourself with this simple yet amazing scrub. 

For best results, use the scrub in the shower. After rinsing with your cleanser, use the scrub to exfoliate and condition the skin. Apply a handful of the scrub to wet skin and massage over the body. Be present. Really take the time to luxuriate. You can massage in a circular motion, or do long strokes on your body and circle around your joints. After you're done with the scrub, rinse away all the dead cells and dirt, and rejoice in the baby soft skin you have just revealed! But do be careful. Oil + Water = A Hella Slippery Shower Floor. Again, be present! 

This recipe makes enough for about one treatment. I recommend making it as needed. Keeping a huge jar of this stuff in your shower invites bacteria to the party as they live in water and thrive on sugar. You don't want this. Also a caveat: be careful using this scrub in your intimate area. If you want to exfoliate "down there" use clean exfoliating gloves. Sugar and salt are no nos in your most delicate of areas. 

One last thing, this is also AMAZING for your lips! Use it is a lip scrub, just be careful if you use a citrus essential oil as they are phototoxic, meaning they react to radiant light i.e., the sun. 

Be Hella Fresh and Hella Clean Clean, 
Riss

Do you regularly exfoliate? Sugar, salt, other? What oil do you like best? Comment.