Cooking Essentials

ALERT: My new self published dessert recipe book is NOW AVAILABLE on Amazon.com. It is a compilation of my 20 latest amazingly nutritious and delicious gluten free, dairy free, sugar free, grain free recipes.

 

As an avid cook and self-proclaimed health nut foodie, there are a few foods/ingredients and cookware that I cannot live without and must have on hand at all times! Also, they are what I consider the sacred secrets to my one of a kind,  wholesome and delicious recipes! Bon Appetit!

FOODS/INGREDIENTS

Olive Oil – I just recently purchased an amazing olive oil sprayer that perfectly controls the amount of oil dispersed and evenly distributes it when baking, sautéing, roasting or broiling.

Fresh Dates  (of any kind)- I prefer to sweeten my dishes and desserts naturally with medjool dates.

Lemons/Limes

Garlic/Onion

Vanilla – I use whole vanilla bean, but also have pure vanilla extract on hand for a back up.

A variety of fresh herbs/spices/roots – Basil, Cilantro, Turmeric, Paprika and Ginger are my top must haves.

Cacao Powder (or Cocoa Powder).  I prefer the Navitas Organics brand because it’s the best quality and best price.

Coconut Milk

Apple Cider Vinegar (raw, unfiltered, unpasteurized)

 

 

Eggs

COOKWARE

Toaster Oven – I couldn’t survive without it! Period.  My toaster oven is literally Tiff’s Little Oven – where all the magic happens! And, I do not own a microwave and haven’t used one since 1997.  Imagine that! I actually own two toaster ovens but prefer the Oster brand.  It fits nicely on my countertop, cooks/bakes food evenly with multiple cooking settings and plenty of space .

Hand Mixer/Beater- I find that a pretty basic one does the trick! But if you want something that’s a little nicer you may want to try this KitchenAid Ultra Power Mixer.

Nutribullet/Juicer/Blender – I have tried them all. I prefer the Nutribullet Pro. It is very versatile and has enough power to turn nuts into paste or butter.

Mandoline – Say hello to quick and easy slicing! This is the mandoline I use. It’s affordable and I absolutely love it.

Cast Iron Skillet- This pan will last forever. It is very robust and allows for even heat distribution which makes for perfect results.