Tuesday, December 4, 2012

Preparedness Store Classes

Upcoming Classes at The Preparedness Store
Non-Electric Substitutes for Items in your Home
Thursday, Dec. 6th 11:00am

Food Storage Meals
Saturday, Dec. 8th 11:00am

Bosch Cookie Class
Thursday, Dec. 13th 11:00am

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Preparedness Store Classes

Here are a few classes being offered at the Preparedness Store  this week at address: 120 Northgate Mile. 

Whole Wheat Bread Making
Thursday, Nov. 29th 11:00am
We will demonstrate grinding wheat & will make whole wheat bread, cinnamon rolls, pizza & whole wheat blender pancakes using the Bosch Universal Kitchen Machine and the NutriMill grain grinder.
Often Overlooked Items in Emergency Preparedness
Saturday, Dec. 1st 11:00am
This class will cover everything from food storage desserts to emergency sanitation.

Monday, November 12, 2012

This week Shopping..

I didn't see many good deals this week for food storage items.
Smiths (ends Tuesday)- when you buy 10 participating items
Cream of Chicken/Mushroom $.69 
Green Giant Vegetables $.49
American Beauty Pasta $.49
  
 I will treat you to a few good deals I saw around Winco this morning. :)
 
Chocolate Chips (as previously mentioned) $1.78
 
 
Cream Cheese $.88

 
2 lb powdered sugar $1.18
 
Vegetable Oil $2.38

 
I wanted to show you how much you can save on spices and seasonings in bulk.  There were some 12 oz containers of gravy mix for $6.98.  I purchased a bag of chicken gravy mix which refilled my container and had about 1/4 cup left over for $3.90.
 
Sometimes you have to get creative with storing things you buy in bulk.  I reused my Crystal Light container to store peppercorns. 
 
I also just discovered ranch dressing mix in bulk.  I measured this package which is just over 2 Tbsp. of mix and costs $1.  I got about 1.5 cups for $3 by buying it in bulk.   
 

Price Comparisons

I had a request for some price comparisons.  Here is the research I did.  If there is another product you are wondering about please comment or come talk to me!  Hope this helps.

Powdered Milk
Sams Club
70.4 oz Daily Chef for $15.23

Walmart
64 oz Great Value for $13.68
32 oz Great Value for $7.58
29 oz (in a #10 can) Augason Farms $9.36
56 oz Morning Moo (#10 can) $12.46
71 oz Chocolate Morning Moo (#10 can) $13.24

Cannery
65.6 oz $8.60
80 oz $9.95
400 oz $47.20 - comes in a bag

Winco
Bulk Price $3.68/lb

*The Cannery is the winner for price.  Almost half the price for the amount you get.  The better deal is to get the 80 or 400 oz packages.

I have heard awesome reviews about Morning Moo from all  who have tried it.  I'm assuming most of the reason for the better flavor is because it is "LOW FAT" rather than "FAT FREE" milk.

Extra Long Grain Rice
Sams Club
50 lb $18.41
25 lb $9.54

Winco
10 lb $7.98
20 lb $9.98
25 lb $12.84 (long, not xtra long grain)

Cannery
5.7 lb $3.85  (not sure if it is extra long or not)
25 lb $13.00 - in a bag

*Sams Club is the winner for price on rice.  The 50 lb bag is the better deal only by a small shot.  Either would be a great way to buy rice. 

White Flour
Sams Club
25 lb $7.69

Winco
50 lb $15.50

Cannery
25 lb $13.30

*The winner for price of white flour is Sams Club or Winco.  They both come in bags you can purchase and would recommend putting it in some sort of bucket or can to avoid getting rodents or bugs in it.

Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Car Kits

On my "TO DO" list this month was to complete car kits for each of our cars.   Here is what I came up with.  I want to encourage everybody to try and assemble some sort of kit for your car(s) sometime in November.  I'd love for you to comment or email me with what you came up with!

In the front seat console:

 


Hand Sanitizer
Matches
Window Scraper
Phone Book
Lotion
Sunglasses
First Aid Kit - includes: bandaids, gauze, cleaning pads, medical tape, scissors, tweezers, Benadryl
*I have this one in the front mostly for when my kids need bandaids and such. 
Flash Light

In the very back in a rubbermaid tote:

Water bottles for everyone in the family
Strawberry Applesauce to go
Granola Bars
Almonds
Atlas
Baby Wipes
Diapers
Kid Books
Book of Mormon
Added: a few pairs of hat & gloves

In the back of the car in a bag:

Tow Rope
Reflector Triangle
Flares
Flashlight
D Cell batteries
Poncho
Safety Vest
Chemical Handwarmers
Fabric Blanket
Knit Gloves
Glow Sticks

Mini Air Compressor
Jumper Cable
Tools: flat head & phillips screwdrivers, pliers, socket wrench

___________________________________
So the last kit I have in the back of my car was a preassembled gift from my mom a few years back.  We had one in one car and would transfer it to the other car if we went on road trips in that car - when we remembered.  We have been meaning to get one for both cars mostly because my husband commutes an hour to and from work on occasion and we forget to put it in his car.

I wanted to see if it would be less expensive to assemble my own kit before purchasing another preassembled.  Here is what I came up with shopping at Walmart.

THE KIT: $34.97 (minus a few things like tools that you would need to add)

 

 
Tow rope: $12.88

 

 
Gloves: $1.97

 

 
Emergency Road Flares: $6.96 (instead of the reflector triangle)

 

 
2 pack of Safety Lightsticks $4.96

 

 
Compressor - didn't find in store but are $16 on Amazon.
Poncho - $1
Handwarmers $1

 

 
First Aid Kit $4.25- They have car first aid kits 2 for $8.50 right next to these.

 

 
Probably already have a fabric blanket to add.
Possibly have a flashlight you can add.  If not $1-$6
If you don't have jumper cables they are around $10 at Walmart
 
Conclusion:  Saved some money and a lot of time to have the bag with all the supplies all ready to throw in the back of my car.  Personally I think it was a great Christmas present! 

Monday, November 5, 2012

Preparedness Store Classes

Just for your information, the following classes will be held at the Preparedness Store this week.  The Preparedness Store is located at:  120 Northgate Mile Idaho Falls, ID 83401
(208) 524-8300.


Whole Wheat Bread MakingThursday, Nov. 8th 11:00 am
We will demonstrate grinding wheat & will make whole wheat bread, cinnamon rolls, pizza & whole wheat blender pancakes using the Bosch Universal Kitchen Machine and the NutriMill grain grinder.
 

When the Lights Go Out
Saturday, Nov. 10th 11:00 am

Lessons learned when turning out the power for a week. Get some ideas of how to be prepared for a power and/or water outage.
 
This is the same class that will be held in our ward building Thursday night.

Sunday, November 4, 2012

Spiritual Preapredness: Start Early and Be Steady

My husband brought this talk to my attention this week as he was preparing his lesson for the Young Men about Spiritual and Temporal Self Reliance.  He said it was used in Gospel Doctorine today too.  How great!

If you have a minute, it is a great talk by President Eyring from October 2005.!  The link is here.

Here are a few parts I highlighted:

In August, you received this promise from President Gordon B. Hinckley if you would read the Book of Mormon through by the end of the year: “Without reservation I promise you that if each of you will observe this simple program, regardless of how many times you previously may have read the Book of Mormon, there will come into your lives and into your homes an added measure of the Spirit of the Lord, a strengthened resolution to walk in obedience to His commandments, and a stronger testimony of the living reality of the Son of God.”3

That is the very promise of increased faith we need to be spiritually prepared. But if we delayed the start of our obedience to that inspired invitation, the number of pages we had to read each day grew larger. If we then missed reading for even a few days, the chance of failure grew. That’s why I chose to read ahead of my daily plan to be sure I will qualify for the promised blessings of the spirit of resolution and testimony of Jesus Christ. When December ends, I will have learned about starting at the moment a command from God comes and being steady in obedience
 
And I will know from my own experience what comes from going to the scriptures early and consistently to know what God wants me to do and then doing it. If we do that, we will be better prepared for the greater storms when they come.
 
Decisions now to exercise faith and be steady in obedience will in time produce great faith and assurance. That is the spiritual preparedness we all will need. And it will qualify us in the moments of crisis to receive the Lord’s promise that “if ye are prepared ye shall not fear.”6

Water Bladder for Bathtub


Sister Egan brought this to church today to show me they had purchased one for their emegency kits.  I think it's an amazing idea!  She said she found they were a few dollars less expensive from www.amazon.com. $21.95
There is some good pictures and info on this website.  http://www.thegreenhead.com/2012/02/waterbob-emergency-bathtub-drinking-water-storage.php

Every home should have one of these in their emergency kit. The Water Bob from Amazing keys will allow you to store up to 100 gallons of clean, safe water, or other liquids in this unique bladder manufactured from FDA food grade plastic. The Water Bob also includes a siphon pump to allow you to dispense the water as you need it. You will never be without clean water should an emergency like a hurricane or tornado arise. Stay safe and make sure you have a Water Bob on hand.  (Info off of Amazon.com)

Shopping this week...

Hi Friends,
I just thought I would give a little tip I have picked up on over the years of trying to shop frugally.  You may already know this.  When you are shopping Winco you will find these containers at the end cap of their bulk aisle.  They are seasonings, herbs, etc.  I have found that if I buy a bag of herbs for like $2.50 a pound it usually costs me $.50 or less to fill my container of something such as parsley or basil.  If I were to buy the McCormick or other seasoning in the container it costs at least $1 or more. 
 
At the every bottom of this display are small containers - the smallest is like $.98.  I bought a few of those and reused the containers for a few others and just buy a bag of the seasonings when I get low and label them and refill.  I love this method! 
 
I also saw that the Guittard chocolate chips are $1.78 at Winco!  Best deal on chocolate chips I have found in at least a year and I love this brand.  Good time to buy some especially if you are wanting to store a few bags. 
 
A few other deals this week:
*Did you know you can take the ad from any store and find the same item at Walmart and they will match the price so you don't have to run around to 3 stores every week?   Just have to show the ad to the cashier as you are checking out.  One of my favorite methods of shopping! 
 
Smiths - until Tuesday
when you buy 10 participating items
American Beauty Pasta $.49
Stove Top Stuffing $.79 - print $1 off 2 from www.coupons.com = $.29
Kraft Salad Dressing $1.69 - print $1 off 2 from www.coupons.com = $1.19
Kraft Marshmallows $.69 - print $.50 off 2 from www.coupons.com = $.44
 
 
Albertsons - until Tuesday
Chex cereal $1.88 - print $1 off 2 at www.coupons.com = $1.38
 
Fred Meyer - until Saturday
15 oz Pumpkin Pie filling $.99
4 lb bag of C&H sugar $1.99 (limit 1) - use coupon from Sunday $.50 off 1 = $1.49
If you price match this at Walmart they won't limit you.  Fred Meyer will allow you to do more than 1 if you split the transactions.
2 lb powdered and brown sugar $1.50
 


Monday, October 22, 2012

Faith in Action - My thoughts

A few weeks back I left a link to a conversation from the Mormon Channel highlighting Barbara Salsbury, expert in Emergency Preparedness.  I am not sure if any of you have had a chance to listen to it so I wanted to share some thoughts I had while listening. 

I am finding myself getting more and more passionate on this subject as the Spirit guides me to information and ideas.  My testimony has grown leaps and bounds in Emergency Preparedness and I sincerely hope that I can help YOU and your family as well as my own family in getting prepared.

When I thought of Emergency Preparedness a few months back my thoughts turned exclusively to preparing to survive the aftermath of a natural disaster.  I thought of storing and grinding wheat and canning garden produce.  It's been interesting to learn that while a natural disaster could happen here in Idaho Falls and we do need to prepare, the more likely crisis we should be preparing for would be an ill family member unable to provide for the family, a death, a job loss.  Essentially the preparation of food storage would be the same.  Maybe the thought process and urgency changes for you though?

As I listened to Sister Salsbury, she mentioned there are usually 2 main excuses people have for not getting prepared:

#1 Not Enough Room
#2 Not Enough Money

I want to talk about these a little bit from what I have experienced and the advice she has given.  These are real and legitimate excuses however, both can be easily overcome.

I think the first thing we all need to realize is that Emergency Preparedness is a commandment.

 Here is what she says:  "When it comes to Emergency Preparedness, it is a commandment. If we believe in following the prophet, then you do what you are asked to do - and in your budget, in your state, in your closet, in your place.. you will be blessed."

I love this insert from a talk by L. Tom Perry called, If Ye Are Prepared Ye Shall Not Fear
“In reviewing the Lord’s counsel to us on the importance of preparedness, I am impressed with the plainness of the message. The Savior made it clear that we cannot place sufficient oil in our preparedness lamps by simply avoiding evil. We must also be anxiously engaged in a positive program of preparation.”
 
He also said: “The Lord will not translate one’s good hopes and desires and intentions into works. Each of us must do that for himself” (The Miracle of Forgiveness, Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1969, p. 8).

I have also learned through experience that the Lord will provide a way to accomplish His commandments.

1 Nephi 17: 3 And thus we see that the commandments of God must be fulfilled. And if it so be that the children of men keep the commandments of God he doth nourish them, and astrengthen them, and provide means whereby they can accomplish the thing which he has commanded them.

Excuse #1  I don't have any room to start storing. 
Have you considered the space under the beds?  How about adding a temporary or permanent shelf in a closet where cans could be stored?  Get creative!  Pray about it.  Heavenly Father will guide your mind to be creative in finding room to store the necessary items.

Excuse #2  I don't have enough money.
I loved what Sister Salsbury taught that when there is a case lot sale, you don't have to buy the whole case.  Maybe you can only afford 3 extra cans.  The response to that is, GREAT!  The Lord recognizes your efforts and will bless you.  A bag of dry beans or a container of salt is like $.50.  If that is all you can afford extra that pay check, then get it.  It's more than you had before. 

I mentioned in church recently that 4 years ago I had hardly anything prepared for a crisis or disaster.  However it was one of my 2009 New Years Resolutions to save money on groceries and start learning how to use coupons.  I really put a lot of effort into researching the grocery store deals and memorizing the prices of things so I would recognize a good deal vs. a not so good deal.  I realized I was slowly saving money on our monthly groceries and with the same money I was using before, I was stockpiling the sale items that our family normally uses such as laundry and dish soap, toothbrushes and toothpaste.  I have continued this process over the last 4 years and now am pretty confident that my family will be able to more comfortably survive.

I wanted to mention this because the thought of preparing is an overwhelming thought.  There is so much to get gathered and so much to purchase.  It doesn't need to be done all at once.  Just start small and stay consistant.  Over time you will be so glad you did and I testify the Lord will bless you for keeping his commandment.

Flip-Top Water Purifier

A few years back a member of our ward, Jozet Richardson Hulley was selling these water filtration cups at a discount cost.  I talked with her at Jared's mission report and she said she'd be willing to offer them to our ward again for $21 which is $1 more than they were before because she will have to ship them.  She sent me a cup for anybody who is interested to see and I have fliers with more information that I will be trying to pass out soon.  Please comment on this post or email or call me if you are interested in more information or purchasing one.
 
Here is a little blurb from the flier: 
 
There is nothing more important in your storage program than clean, pure, water!!  You cannot live without water!
 
You Must have an Efficient Water Purifier in your storage!!!
 
Introducing the New "Flip-Top Water Purifier"
The Most Laboratory and Field-Tested Product of its kind in the World!  The ONLY personal water filtration system capable of reducing over 99% of all known contaminants in the world!!!
 
Now selling in major retail outlets for $49-$69 each!!
 
Chance of a lifetime!  Buy now through this special group purchase order only $21 each!  The Flip-Top Water Purifier is capable of purifying from 100-200 gallons of water.  Replacement Filters cost only $10-$15 each, depending on the model.

Some Weekly Sale Items - Updated

Hi Friends,
I apologize it's been hit and miss the last few weeks.  I wanted to give you a heads up to some good prices I have scouted this week.  These would be a great addition to your food storage.

Smiths Food - this sale goes until Tuesday
48 oz vegetable cooking oil $2.49
2 lb powdered and brown sugar $1.39
5 lb flour $1.59
4 lb sugar $2.29

12 oz Nestle Chocolate Chips 2/$4 - print $.50 off 2 coupon from www.coupons.com = $1.75/bag
*Smiths will only allow you 2 like printable coupons per day.  Just a heads up!

Keep in mind we have access to the stake canner so if you decide you'd like to put any of these items in a #10 to last many more years, we can do that!  Please contact me if you have interest in this and I'd be happy to help you.

Fred Meyer - this sale goes until Saturday
18.5-19oz Progresso Soup $.99 -limit 5
12-16oz Barilla Pasta or 24 oz Hunt's Pasta Sauce $.79  - limit 4
$1 off 2 Barilla Pasta coupon was in Sunday's paper = $.29

 With both of these deals there is a coupon in the Fred Meyer ad you will need the cashier to scan.  The ad can be found at the check out stand, front of the store or in Sunday's newspaper. 

Like always please feel free to comment on the posts with questions or call or email me. 

I just quickly wanted to add some little price comparisons on here for you to know.  I headed to Sams Club today so here are their prices compared with Smiths sale.  Hope it helps some of you.

Sugar:
$2.29 at Smiths for 4 lbs = $.57/lb
$27.98 at Sams for 50 lbs = $.56/lb
$13.78 at Sams for 25 lbs = $.55/lb
$6.16 at Sams for 10 lbs = $.62/lb

Flour:
$1.59 at Smiths for 5 lbs = $.32/lb
$7.69 at Sams for 25 lbs =  $.31/lb

Powdered/Brown Sugar
$1.39 at Smiths for 2 lbs = $.70/lb
$5.56 at Sams Club for 7 lbs = $.79





Saturday, October 20, 2012

Homemade Yogurt - June RS

Written & Taught by Sister Kammerman
In our area, cups of Yoplait usually cost $.50 on sale. If the five of us (the kids and myself) ate a cup of Yoplait five days out of seven, the cost per week would be $12.50. Over the course of a year, that adds up to $650. On yogurt! And this is even assuming that I could manage to procure that much yogurt at the $.50 price(if I had to pay $.75 for each container, the yogurt would cost us over $975 in a year...the horror!).                                           
*If I make my own yogurt, a week’s worth costs us $4, saving us $11 a week. Over the course of a year, this will save us $572 compared to the $.50 Yoplait cups.  Yeah, sweating the small stuff is totally worth it. $.50 here, $1 there, $5 over there…it all adds up when you look at things in the space of a year instead of in the space of a day.
Yogurt made with lower fat milk will not be as firm as yogurt made from whole milk.
Homemade Yogurt (makes 4+ quarts, which will keep for at least a month in the fridge)
Ingredients
1 gallon of milk         1 cup yogurt starter use a small cup of plain (Dannon/greek/Yoplai) or a cup from your previous batch.
1. Place four quart glass canning jars, four lids, and four screw-tops in a large pot. Fill with an inch of water; cover with lid and heat to boiling. Boil for ten minutes. Leave the lid on the pot and move it off the heat until you are ready to use the jars. (IF not sanitized in dishwasher)
2. Pour one gallon of milk into a large, heavy bottomed stockpot or Dutch oven. Heat the milk to 185-190 degrees Farenheit
3. Place the pot in a sink filled with cold water and let the milk cool to 120 degrees fahrenheit
4. Stir one cup of yogurt starter into the cooled milk, using a whisk. Stir well to ensure that the starter is thoroughly incorporated into the milk.
5. Pour the milk into jars, and put the lids and bands on. Place them into a cooler.
6. Heat one gallon of water to 120-130 degrees F and pour into cooler.
7. Shut cooler lid and leave in a warm place for three hours. When the three hours are up, place the yogurt in the refrigerator.
To make a delicious vanilla version of this yogurt--- add ¾ cup of sugar to the four quarts of milk when it’s cooling in the sink. Then stir in 2 tablespoons of vanilla, depending on your preference, and proceed as usual with the recipe. 
Add fruit, grape nuts or granola or what you like! We use extracts and stir in dry pudding mix to add a variety  & touch of flavor as we use it. (almond extract with peaches)  banana cream pudding, orange extract, lemon, extract.    You can even try it frozen for summer treat.

FAT-FREE YOGURT from POWDERED MILK  (size of thermos will determine if you can double)
2 cups lukewarm water
1 cup powdered milk
2 TBL. Plain yogurt
Mix all together in mixer or with whisk—(not in thermos yet)
After mixing well—no lumps,
**Pre-heat your thermos  by putting hot water in it while waiting… POUR OUT before putting in milk/yogurt mixture.
Pourmixture into 1 quart stainless steel thermos—screw on lid.
Let stand on counter overnight or 8-10 hrs.  It is ready! Pour into airtight container & refrigerate.   (I like to do this in the morning after kids are off to school and put in the fridge in evening so it’s cold and ready to enjoy by morning.
Add fruit, grape nuts or granola or what you like! We use extracts and stir in dry pudding/jello mix to add a variety & touch of flavor as we use it. (almond extract with peaches is good!)  banana cream pudding, dry flavored jello, orange extract, lemon, extract.  
You can use as sour cream or dip—just add seasoning.

Homemade Cream Cheese
Two items that we seem to buy every week from the grocery store are cream cheese and sour cream. Why I haven't already started making these myself sooner is beyond me…These recipes are so easy, you'll wonder why you never tried them before.

Homemade Cream Cheese  (makes aprox. 2 cups) 

1 quart homemade yogurt (whole milk or low-fat)

 Instructions
Place a clean kitchen towel, cheese cloth, or clean muslin in a colander. Place the colander in a bowl or cake pan that is large enough to hold it. Add the yogurt to the lined colander and wrap the towel over the top to cover (or use a plate). Leave this to drain for about 5 hours in the refrigerator. If you want a thicker consistency, leave it longer, making sure to empty what is draining so it doesn't reach the bottom of the colander and get reabsorbed. Store your finished cream cheese in a resealable container in the fridge.  Add flavors/seasoning if desired.
Sweetened Condensed Milk
 
1/2 c water
1 c sugar
3 T butter
1 c powdered milk
 
Heat water, sugar and butter until boiling. Allow to cool slightly. Pour into a blender and gradually add the powdered milk, through the hole at the top. Blend until smooth. Can store in refrigerator up to 2 weeks, makes slightly more than one can of sweetened condensed milk.
 
 
Cottage Cheese
 
To make your own delicious and nutritious Basic Cottage Cheese, use the easy directions which follow. This recipe utilized rennet or Junket tablets (usually found next to the jello) to help produce low-acid cottage cheese with minimal effort:
 
1 rennet tablet (or Junket tablet)
2 cups Basic Yogurt
 
1 gallon Basic Rehydrated Powdered Milk.
 
·        Dissolve rennet tablet in warm water. (set aside)
·        Pour Basic Rehydrated Powdered Milk into a large heavy pot and heat to 90 degrees F.
·        Add Basic Yogurt, stirring to mix.
·        Add dissolved rennet.
·        Cover pot and leave overnight in a warm place.
 
·        The next day, a gelatinous, almost solid mass, like firm yogurt, has formed in the pot. This is the curd.
·        With a silver knife, cut through this curd to break it into small pieces.
·        Place pot on top of a large cake pan so you can pour the water around it. (double boiler)
·        Shake the pot gently while it is being heated to help distribute the heat more evenly throughout the curd.
·        When the curd temperature reaches 110 degrees F, turn off the heat, leaving the cheese bowl in the water for about 30 minutes.
·        Then pour the cheese into a cloth bag (can use a pillow case) or several layers of cheesecloth and hang it up to drain. When the curds have drained, mash the cheese with a form, work in a little sweet or sour cream or moisten it with a little basic Yogurt if you don't want the extra fat.

Thursday, October 11, 2012

Home Storage Center

This week I had the opportunity to experience the Home Storage Center for the first time with some great company.  I must say it was a really good time.  Do you see those smiling faces? 
 
I wanted to take a few pictures for those of you who haven't had a chance to go yet.  At the beginning of the assembly line our first worker gets the #10 cans and fills them with whatever food you are currently working on.  We weigh them, put an oxygen absorber in the can (except for sugar because it makes it hard) and then seal the lid on.
 
 
 
Here is Zoe sealing cans with a big happy smile. It's as easy as settling the can and pulling the handle.  It takes about 10 seconds.
 
The last person will put a date stamp on the sticker which tells what is inside the can.  Then they add the cans to the shelf in their proper places.
 
Way easy and way fun!  Especially with good company.  Click HERE for a link to the cannery sign up sheet.  We will be making an appointment to attend again in January and hopefully continue to go bimonthly in the coming year so you can have more opportunities to go there and buy smaller amounts more often if desired.  If you have a desire to go sooner, please call myself or the cannery! 
 
Also, please remember that we have located our stake canner so you can purchase your own food and make an appointment with the Olivas family to use the canner in their garage.  I just heard Broulims is having their case lot sale until October 16th.  Sugar & flour are a great price and certainly worth stocking up on to can! 
 
As always, please feel free to contact me with questions.
 

Sunday, September 23, 2012

Faith in Action - Emergency Preparedness

If you have a minute this week or while your doing dishes or folding laundry, turn this on.  You won't be disappointed.

Barbara Salsbury - Emergency Preparedness - Episode 5
Program by: Mormon Channel
Barbara Salsbury talks about her vast experience with emergency preparedness. Barbara explains the difference between provident living and disaster preparedness. She also gives advice on how we all can be prepared for emergencies and how we can store food even in the smallest of accommodations.

For more information concerning emergency preparedness, go to the Church's Provident Living web site.

Wheat - Including Recipes & Pictures

Do you really know what whole grains are –or why they're so beneficial?

A grain is considered whole when all three parts – bran, germ and endosperm – are present. Most people know that fruits and vegetables contain beneficial phytochemicals and antioxidants, but many do not realize that whole grains are often an even better source of these key nutrients. In fact, whole grains are a good source of B vitamins, Vitamin E,magnesium, iron and fiber, as well as other valuable antioxidants not found in some fruits and vegetables. Most of the antioxidants and vitamins are found in the germ & the bran of a grain.

Whole grains have been shown to reduce the risk of heart diseaseby decreasing cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and blood coagulation. Whole grains have also been found to reduce the risks of many types of cancer. They may also help regulate blood glucose in people living with diabetes. Other studies have also shown that people who consume more whole grains consistently weigh less than those who consumed less whole grain products.

What kind of wheat?

The most common types of wheat grown in the United States are red and white wheats. Varieties include, hard red spring, hard red winter, hard white winter, soft white spring, and soft white winter. Deciding which wheat to store depends on what you will do with it.

Hard wheat is produced in areas that have dry temperature climates. The kernels are hard in texture, small, red, and have a strong gluten. Gluten is what gives wheat cohesive strength and allows it to stretch, expand, and retain gases as fermenting dough expands. This is excellent for making hearty whole wheat loaves of bread or to use in recipes as an extender for red meat. Hard red winter wheat is also the most common wheat available. Hard white winter wheat contains a more delicate flavor than the hard red wheat and can be used to make light and fluffy bread, rolls, and scones. It can also be used in recipes as an extender for white meat. Both of these varieties of hard wheat are high in protein and fiber.

The soft white classes of wheat are produced in areas of mild winters with adequate moisture. White kernels are larger and plumper than red wheat kernels, are of a softer texture, and have a weaker gluten strength. This wheat is used to make flaky pastries, pie crust, cakes, crackers, and breakfast cereals. Because of its lower gluten and protein content, it is not recommended for use in breads.

How should it be stored?

Wheat is one of the longest storing food items around. Whole wheat kernels will store longer and better than when ground up into flour. When storing your wheat at home, make sure it is in containers specifically identified on the label as food storage containers. Round containers are best when storing wheat since wheat gives off heat and square containers stacked closely together may not allow this heat to escape.

It is important that wheat doesn’t have a moisture content level higher than 10 percent. A higher moisture content than this causes damage to the wheat and exposure to oxygen may cause some forms of bacteria to grow. Storing wheat in a cool, dry place is the easiest way to keep moisture content low. A properly used oxygen absorber will also keep exposure to oxygen minimal.

A storage temperature of 40-60° F results in fresher wheat. However, 60° F and above is still acceptable. Food storage containers should not be stored directly on a cement floor to prevent rusting and pest contamination. Wheat should also be stored away from apples, onions, potatoes, etc., since the odor or flavor may transfer to the wheat.
 
Enjoy some pictures & recipes from our Wheat Activity!

 

Garden Herb Wheat Thins ---Makes  5  large cookies sheet

Mix       3 ½ cup Whole Wheat Flour                                                                                                  3 cups white flour                                                                                                                      In a blender— to keep oil emulsified & to blend in the herbs

2/3 cup oil   (I use 1/3 cup canola and 1/3 cup olive)                                                                                                               2 cups water                                                                                                                                                                   1 tsp salt                                                                                                                                                                             1 ½ tsp. garlic salt

*FIRST--Rehydrate in small amount of hot water THEN add to oil/water

1 T. dehydrated onion                                                                                                                         1-2 T. dehydrated bell peppers --*I use Rainy Day Foods mixed bell peppers                                                  1 tsp. herb Italian or pizza seasoning                                                                                                           ¼ tsp chilli powder

*After blending well –add to flour and mix well with spatula then knead until smooth dough—about 2-3 minutes in a mixer or 5 min. by hand.

Cut into 6 equal pieces and roll out dough to edges—you want THIN!   1/8 inch at most.

Size (cut almost through) dividing dough into 8x12 pieces (about 1 inch size crackers)

Poke each cracker piece with fork. Grind sea salt to lightly sprinkle surface.

Bake on 2nd rack & 4th rack to do 2 at a time… set timer for 15 min… then rotate positions.

Bake at 350 for  30-35 min. until golden/light brown.  (If they have a “oil or wet” look at all—not done.)

Break into cracker pieces after cooled a bit and store in air tight container AFTER they have cooled.

 

 

Original Wheat Thins ---Makes  6  large cookie sheets

Mix       3 ½ cup Whole Wheat Flour                                                                                                  3 cups white flour                                                                                                                      In a blender— to keep oil emulsified & to blend in the herbs

2/3 cup oil   (I use 1/3 cup canola and 1/3 cup olive)                                                                                                               2 cups water                                                                                                                                                                   2 tsp salt                                                                                                                                                                             *Same as above

Graham Crackers  ---Makes 4 large cookie sheets (could put into 4)

½  cup evaporated milk (OR 1/3 cup dry powder milk in ½ cup water)                         2 Tbls. Lemon juice or vinegar                                                                                        

Mix following in order listed. Blend well to keep oil in emulsion.                                                                        1 cups dark brown sugar                                                                                                             ½  cup white sugar OR honey                                                                                                      1 cup oil                                                                                                                                            2 tsp. vanilla                                                                                                                                                2 eggs slightly beaten

Combine & mix both above mixtures well.

Add :              6 cups whole wheat flour                                                                                                                                                          1 tsp. salt                                                                                                                                          1 tsp. baking soda                                                                                                                        

Divide mixture into 4 equal parts (or 5 for thinner cracker and no fuss with edges)

Place each part on a greased and floured cookie sheet.

Roll from center to edges ‘til 1/8 “ thick.

Prick with fork about 1” apart.

Bake a t 375 for 15-20 min.  (golden to light brown)

CUT immediately into squares while still warm.

**You can also sprinkle cinnamon sugar on it before baking.

Store in airtight container after cooling.

  

Homemade Grape Nuts—makes 2.5 lbs

3 cups whole wheat flour

½ cup  wheat germ                                                                                            1 cup brown sugar                                                                                    2 cups buttermilk  (for substitute use milk and 2 T. lemon juice)                                  1 tsp. baking soda                                                                                        1-2 tsp. cinnamon                                                                                                 1 tsp.  salt

Beat until smooth.

Spread dough on 2 large greased cookie sheets.

Bake 25-30 minutes at 350.

While still warm, break into chunks –about 1 “ size pieces

Whirl briefly in a blender until smaller like grapenut pieces.

Crisp in oven on cookie sheets at 250 for 20-30 minutes.

Store in air tight container.



 

Wheat Treats for Salads

Soak wheat in cold water for 24 hours. Change water once or twice during this time.

Drain wheat and rinse.

Remove excess water by rolling wheat on a paper towel.

In a heavy kettle heat vegetable oil to 360.

Put small amount of wheat 1 ½ cups in a strainer or wire basket and fry in oil for 1 ½ minutes.

Drain on paper towel.

Season wheat with salt or powdered ranch seasoning.

Enjoy as a fun snack or sprinkled on a salad.
 

Low-fat Apple Cinnamon Wheat Muffins    ~ Laila Kammerman

2 cups whole wheat flour

2 cups white flour

2 Tbl & 2 tsp baking powder

1 tsp. salt

1 cup brown sugar

2 tsp. cinnamon

(optional-- ¼ tsp nutmeg, ¼ tsp. allspice)

*blend dry ingredients first

**Add wet ingredients all at once and blend well

 

½ --2/3 cup minced apples (see info below)

1/3 cup applesauce

1/3 cup oil

1 tsp. vanilla

4 eggs

2 cups milk

Spray muffin tins—or line with paper…  (makes 24-27 muffins)  *Easy to freeze for later use

Bake 415 if dark non-stick muffin tins…  Bake 425 if normal or lined with paper. 

15 min. on middle rack (check with toothpick to see if done)
 

What I use for apples—

Dried apples from cannery—crush them into small pieces.  I do it with the end of glass cup in a bowl.  Rehydrate in hot water—level to apples.   Or if you have apples in the fridge that have lost their crispness—peel and chop fine.

I like to cook the fresh apples with some cinnamon and keep in fridge to use in oatmeal as well.

Light and Fluffy Wheat Pancakes/waffles

1 cup wheat flour

1 cup white flour

2 Tbl. Baking powder

2  scant tsp. salt

1 tsp. cinnamon

½ tsp. nutmeg

2 egg yolk  (separate and set aside whites in other mixing bowl to beat fluffy

2 cups milk

1/3 cup oil

 

Mix dry ingredients together.

In separate bowl--Whip egg whites til stiff and fluffy (fold in at final step)

Stir in with wire whisk or beater –

Egg yolks, milk, oil- scrape edges of bowl.

After smooth

Fold in egg whites.

Cook on griddle at 325 until bubbles form on top and dry ridge appearing on sides

Flip and cook for 1 more minute.

EASY - FAST – DELICIOUS – low-fat Wheat Germ Cookies

1 cake mix (dry) - works with any of your favorite flavors

1 egg

¼ cup brown sugar

1/3 cup water

¼ cup oil

½ cup wheat germ

Mix all together—will be a little softer than normal cookie dough.

Grease cookie sheet drop on with spoon

Bake at 375 for 12 min. on 2nd rack.

Makes about 2 doz.