People who are born into this faith have lived the lifestyle, and are familiar with the processing of various recipes, handed down through the years. They have the knowledge most converts lack. Those who really know me also know I will not back down from a challenge. However, when I got home from the office and everyone was looking at me for something to eat during the food restricted period, or abstinence, I was at a loss.
On our budget, and not knowing where to turn, I tried soy products. Both my husband and I had food allergies and were on special medical diets, low sodium and low fat. You can add diabetic to the lot. And many other restricted items.
So what do you make for sixty somewhat days with no eggs, milk, dairy, meats, or anything that bleeds, (fish). Vegetables. Some also go as far as no olive oil, and restricted wine.
My grandson has a peanut allergy, (no nuts around him). Most foods are salty, a big problem. Wheat does not agree with my husband. There is also a sugar and white bread restriction. MSG is a no-no. So, while people eat peanut and jelly sandwiches, that is out. Another popular food is the spaghetti family. Another No-no, as too many tomato product causes acid reflux for my husband. He can't tolerate the wheat pasta, and can have very little of it. He is also allergic to tuna fish, which some eat on occasion. Anything is palatable if sweet enough, another no no. A good food for us is also rice. Oats, and fruit. Salad is a good choice, but not sufficient. He cannot do vinegars, or caffeine or chocolate. We are virtually on two different diets.
Our priest has given dispensations, understanding that for some changes in the diet should not be done. One can only do what they can. When my husband starts on this regime, he not only loses a lot of weight, but it makes him sick. When a woman is post-menopausal, it is imperative that she get the amount of calcium her body needs, or bones start breaking, such as: teeth. While soy products are substantial in our diet, too much can produce too much estrogen, and result in cancer. It's not all that good for the male in your home to have too much soy either. Unbalanced meals can leave you weak, Mal-nutritious, and you can become depressed. The other aspect is cost. We need to live within our budget.
But tonight, I'm happy to share one of the quickie recipes I've learned to make, which is not only fast but delicious. It meets the nutritional requirements, and fits in with all of our dietary concerns.
Creamed Mushroom and vegetable egg-noodle casserole
- 1 1/4 cup (uncooked) egg-noodles
- 1 can cream of mushroom soup, one can of water
- 1/2 bag of assorted frozen vegetables, (peas carrots, beans)
- 1 box of sliced (14 oz.) gourmet stuffing mushrooms
- 3 Tablespoons of Smart Balance Spread
In a saucepan, saute the mushrooms, (moderate heat), cooking down with the smart balance spread, until slightly browned then add the creamed mushroom soup and water, (mixing well). Cook the egg-noodles separately while the mushrooms are cooking. The micro waive will process your vegetables. Drain noodles and Combine all, stirring well. Good eating.
Serve with your favorite wholesome bread, and fruit.
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