Starting a New Ending..

it's been a while since i've blogged - i have to catch you up on so many things that have happened in my life. 2012 was deemed a "New Beginning" by my aunt, and little did i know how potent those words would be. 2012 is the year to take a strong hold on my mind, body & spirit, This is the last year i will be in my 30's - i will be 40 in April of 2013 - and i have already started noticing my body making changes. it's interesting really, i can see my head of hair, and facial hair turning grey... my physique is changing, and my idea of a "good time" usually consists of good Food, and good Company.

gone are the days of staying up till 3am during the work week, partying till the cows come home, and now Eating all the things i want. This Month i found out that i am a Type 2 Diabetic - this is mainly genetic, however i can say that i haven't had the best routine when it comes to my overall health. i was told once, "Do what you have to do now, before someone tells you you Have to.." and now that time has come. Turning 40 for me will be about making a "New Ending". What does this mean? - this means making better choices for myself, and thinking before i put something in my mouth...

So here is the Good News - this means i get to experiment more in the kitchen. most of you who know me know that i LOVE to eat! i am learning that i can still have all the flavor i Love, but in a healthier way...

Here is how it is going to work: Herban Nomad will be about my life, my challenges, and my success. i will talk to you about what is for dinner through the week, and i will store my recipes on Herban Flavor. Most of my recipes will come from other blogs, and books that i find - but rest assured, i will give you all the links you need.

Here is to 2012, my New Ending....
xo
D

Organic Butternut Squash Soup

i cannot think of a better First Recipe to our blog than Organic Butternut Squash Soup. i made this soup recently for a friend of ours - and instead of writing it down line for line, i decided to do a photo tutorial.

For this recipe you will need: 2 Butternut Squash, 2 Granny Smith Apples, 1 Lg Onion, 3 Cloves Garlic, Cinnamon, Ground Cloves, Cayenne Pepper, Salt, Nutmeg, 2 Tbs Butter, 4 C. Chicken Broth, 2 C. half & half. i served with a Hot Crusty Bread before our main course.

Step 1: Cut

Butternut Squash in 1/2 lengthwise

Step 2: Remove & Discard Seeds/Pulp with Spoon

Step 3: Lay Squash on Baking Pan face down (i put mine on wax paper),

and Bake for 45 minutes at 350º

Step 4: When finished, Remove Squash from Skins and Place in Bowl.

Be Careful not to Burn Your Fingers!

Step 5: For the Next Step you'll need the Following Ingredients...

Step 6: Mince the Garlic, Dice the Onion, and Chop the Apples (2)

it's important to let the Garlic & Onion Sweat 2 Minutes before cooking

Step 7: Place 2 Tbs of Butter in Dutch oven and Saute Garlic and Onions

till tender on Medium (it's important to cook at a moderate level)

Step 8: Once Onions are Tender, Add Squash & Apples

Step 9: You will need these items for the next steps....

Step 10: Now Add 4 Cups Chicken Broth and stir.

Once Mixed well let simmer till Apples are Tender.

Step 11: i usually Cover Mine, but not fully....

Step 12: Now Add the Following Spices...

They will darken the soup, but no worries it will lighten back up when we add the half & half

Step 13: Now Transfer to Blender in Batches, but make sure to take off the

center cap and cover with a dish towel before blending.

This will help to stop any explosions while pulverizing

Step 14: Transfer back to Pot, and add 2 Cups half & half.

Stir in and simmer till ready to serve... ENJOY!

Photos By: D. Ybarra