Whiteley Creek Homestead

I need to get started on the first assigned project in my Basic Herbology class, so I decided to draw upon a strategy that I used when I was studying to earn my degree in education. I prepared a dried fruit and nut/seed mixture to munch on. It seems to help me think more clearly. Last evening, I was reading my latest issue of Martha Stewart Living Magazine (October 2009) and it was there that I spied a new combo of ingredients to try. The heading was "autumn in a jar". Who could resist such a name? I had all of the ingredients on hand, so I went with it. It is so very good! I especially like the burst of flavor and sweetness that the candied ginger provides. Candied ginger should become a staple in your pantry right alongside the cans of stewed tomatoes, baby food prunes and applesauce (alternatives to butter and oil), walnuts…

Pumpkin Seed Trail Mix

1 cup *raw pumpkin seeds

½ cup large unsweetened coconut flakes

½ cup whole almonds

½ cup dried cranberries

¼ cup candied ginger cut into tiny pieces

Place all ingredients into a bowl. Mix to combine.

*The original recipe said to toast and salt the pumpkin seeds and almonds. My Fundamentals of Basic Nutrition textbook recommends raw nuts. The author Elson M. Haas, MD states, “Roasted, salted nuts are best avoided. Most of us do not need the extra salt and roasting affects the oils and decreases the B vitamin and mineral content.” Dr. Haas also reports that “pumpkin seeds are best known for their concentration of zinc and their use in the treatment and prevention of prostate problems.”