In this solo episode of Cook The Garden, host Ginain shares her tried-and-true method for preserving fresh herbs from the garden by freezing them. Learn step-by-step how to freeze your herbs to lock in their flavor and nutrients, ensuring you can enjoy that fresh garden taste all year round! Ginain also talks about different freezing methods—freezing herbs whole versus making herb cubes—and offers tips on how to use them in your favorite dishes.

Stay tuned until the end of the episode, where Ginain introduces her exclusive mini-course on freezing fresh herbs, available for a special price to podcast listeners!

Find the mini-course here: Freezing Fresh Herbs Mini-Course (cookprayslay.com)

*USE PROMO CODE: GARDENFREEZE

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In this episode, Ginain talks with homesteading expert Mona Weathers. Mona shares her extensive knowledge on sustainable living, offering tips on gardening, homesteading basics, and sustainable practices. She also shares her favorite sourdough fry bread recipe. The conversation is filled with practical advice for anyone interested in starting their own homestead, regardless of the size of their land.

Episode Highlights:

1. Mona's Garden:
   • Mona describes her current garden setup and the benefits of using rabbit manure for garlic.
2. Homesteading Basics:
   • Overview of homesteading and tips for getting started.
   • Sustainable Practices
3. Recipe: Sourdough Fry Bread
   1. Sourdough starter, flour, salt, sugar, warm water, and oil for frying.
4. Advice for Aspiring Homesteaders:
   • Start small, stay patient, and learn from experiences.

Resources Mentioned:

• Mona's social media and website for more tips.

Website: Homesteading For Beginners | Healthy Homesteading

Contact Mona: Contact | Healthy Homesteading

YouTube: Homesteading for Beginners

Instagram: Mona | Homesteading Coach (@farmer_mona) • Instagram photos and videos

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Let's talk canning and pickling in this fun bonus episode. Earlier this season, we had the pleasure of chatting with Dalia Colon, host of the Zest Podcast, and today, we're excited to share a Zest bonus episode that explores the art of canning and pickling with John Barbie, the owner of Tip Top Canning Company in Tampa.

Thank you to the Zest Podcast for sharing this episode with us. Visit their website and podcast page for more episodes: The Zest Podcast Episodes – The Zest Podcast

In this special bonus episode of Cook The Garden, host Ginain sits down with Tonya Whitlock, founder of The Hive Inclusive Community. This episode is a little different from the usual gardening and cooking topics, as it shines a spotlight on the inspiring work of The Hive, a nonprofit dedicated to creating inclusive housing and communities for adults with disabilities. Tonya shares her personal journey and the incredible initiatives of The Hive, from inclusive housing developments to various empowering programs and events.

Episode Highlights:

• Introduction to The Hive Inclusive Community: Tonya Whitlock explains the mission of The Hive and her personal inspiration from her son, who has cerebral palsy.
• Programs and Services: Detailed overview of The Hive's programs, including support groups, instructor-led classes (gardening, cooking, art), and social events like bowling, karaoke, and movie nights.
• Community Engagement: The importance of community support and the roles volunteers and local businesses play in The Hive's success.
• Personal Stories: Tonya shares touching stories of members finding their voice and place in the community through The Hive's initiatives.
• Upcoming Events: Exciting details about The Hive's annual fashion show, "The Beauty of Inclusion," and the October Community Table event.

Key Takeaways:

• The Hive is actively building inclusive communities and housing for adults with disabilities.
• The organization offers diverse programs to enhance social interaction, independence, and personal growth for its members.
• Community involvement and support are crucial for the success and expansion of The Hive's mission.
• The upcoming fashion show and community table event are excellent opportunities for the public to engage and support The Hive.

Links and Resources:

• The Hive Inclusive Community Website
• Upcoming Events:
  • Fashion Show: Details and Tickets
  • Community Table Event: Visit their website for more details coming soon
• Get Involved:
  • Volunteer Opportunities
  • Donate
  • Contact Tonya Whitlock: tonya@theinclusivehive.org

Featured Recipe:

• Autumn Wild Rice Soup & Caesar Salad: This delicious recipe was made during a cooking class with The Hive community members.

Ingredients

2 Tbsp. olive oil

1 yellow onion, finely chopped

¾ cup chopped carrots

1 cup baby spinach or kale

½ cup chopped celery

8 oz. baby bella (cremini) mushrooms, sliced

4 garlic cloves, minced

3/4 cup dry wild rice blend

1 Tbsp. poultry seasoning (alternatives: cajun seasoning for more kick)

Salt & black pepper

4 cups (1 quart) lower sodium chicken broth (or vegetable soup)

1-2 cups water

3/4 cup coconut milk

1. Heat oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for 5 minutes, or until softened.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic, and stir to combine. Cook for 6 minutes, stirring only occasionally, until the mushrooms are soft and slightly golden.
3. Add rice and stir to coat. Let the rice cook for 1 to 2 minutes to lightly toast the grains. Stir in poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper.
4. Add broth and 1-2 cups of water; stir well. Bring the mixture to a low boil, cover, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for approx 45 mins, or until the rice is tender.
5. Remove the lid and stir in the coconut milk. Add salt and pepper. Remove from heat and ladle into bowls.

In this episode, Ginain dives into the often-overlooked world of strawberry tops, revealing their hidden potential and versatility. From a refreshing cup of herbal tea to eco-friendly crafts and natural health remedies, we explore the myriad ways these vibrant greens can enrich our lives, contribute to our wellness, and champion sustainability. Some of these uses might even surprise you!

Resources and mentions in this episode:

• Read the full blog post: Turning Tops into Treasures: Unique Uses for Strawberry Tops (cookprayslay.com)
• Smoothie Guide & Recipes: Seasonal recipes and gardening tips for families (myflodesk.com)
• Making Homemade Salad Dressings: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/making-homemade-salad-dressings/id1642443203?i=1000607316591
• Scrappy Kitchen: Turn Kitchen Scraps into Cozy Simmer Pots (cookprayslay.com)

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In this episode, host Ginain is thrilled to have Dalia Colón, an acclaimed food journalist and host of The Zest Podcast, as her guest. Join us as we dig into Dalia's journey into gardening, the intersection of food and community in Florida, and the launch of her exciting new cookbook.

• Dalia shares what she's growing in her garden: Dalia shares her foray into gardening with raised beds on wheels, growing herbs and vegetables like cilantro, basil, green onions, romaine, and purple cauliflower, and her aspirations with a baby mango tree and a banana plant.

• A Feast of Flavors: The conversation blooms into a discussion about Dalia's involvement with The Zest Podcast, celebrating Florida's rich food culture through stories of citrus, seafood, Spanish flavors, and Southern charm.

• Cookbook Chronicles: Dalia unveils her new vegetarian cookbook, packed with over 120 plant-based recipes, reflecting her decade-long journey as a vegetarian. She emphasizes the cookbook's approachability for everyone, regardless of their dietary preferences.

• Food for Thought: Engaging tales from Florida's food history, including the challenges facing the citrus industry and the success of the strawberry industry in Plant City, spice up the conversation.

• Recipe SHARE: Ruby Red Roasted Beet Hummus: A vibrant recipe from Dalia's cookbook is shared, showcasing the versatility and beauty of vegetables. This easy-to-make, visually stunning dish is perfect for any gathering.

Ruby Red Beet Hummus

Makes about 2 cups
1 large beet, peeled and cut into ½-inch cubes
¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil plus 2 tablespoons, divided
1 (15-ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
4 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 large lemon
2 tablespoons tahini
½ teaspoon salt

1. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment
   paper.
2. Spread the beets on the prepared baking sheet. Toss with 2 tablespoons olive oil
   to coat. Roast in the oven for 30 minutes or until tender. Let cool.
3. In a food processor or strong blender, combine the chickpeas, garlic, remaining
   ¼ cup olive oil, lemon juice, tahini, and salt and pulse. Adjust lemon juice, olive
   oil, and salt and continue to blend until hummus reaches your desired flavor and
   thickness.
   — Recipe from The Florida Vegetarian Cookbook by Dalia Colón (University Press of
   Florida, 2024)

• The Zest Podcast
• Purchase Dalia Colón's Vegetarian Cookbook: The Florida Vegetarian Cookbook: Colón, Dalia: 9780813069906: Amazon.com: Books
• Connect with Dalia on Social Media: Dalia Colon (@daliacolon) • Instagram photos and videos

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In this inspiring episode, Ginain Grayes welcomes Monica Petrella, a passionate advocate for local food systems and Food System Program Coordinator for Homegrown Hillsborough, an initiative aimed at strengthening local food systems. They dive into the importance of community gardening, the benefits of homegrown produce, and how individuals can contribute to a sustainable food system.

• Monica's Urban Gardening Journey: Transitioning from believing she couldn't garden due to space limitations to thriving in balcony gardening with the help of EarthBox systems.
• Benefits of Urban Gardening: Monica highlights the sustainability, accessibility, and health benefits of growing one's own food, even in limited spaces.
• Introduction to Homegrown Hillsborough: Monica discusses the role and mission of Homegrown Hillsborough, an initiative aimed at strengthening local food systems and encouraging community gardening efforts.
• Food Insecurity in Hillsborough County: The discussion delves into the issue of food insecurity, its impact on communities, and how local efforts can make a significant difference.
• Getting Involved with Local Food Systems: Monica offers insights on how individuals can support and engage with their local food systems, emphasizing the importance of community participation and education.
• Recipe Share: Monica shares a simple yet delicious recipe for cherry tomato bruschetta, showcasing how to use homegrown produce to create healthy, flavorful meals.

• Homegrown Hillsborough: Learn more about their initiatives and how you can get involved in supporting your local food system. Homegrown Hillsborough - Hillsborough County - University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences - UF/IFAS (ufl.edu)
• Take the Residential Food System Survey
• UF/IFAS Extension: Discover classes, workshops, and resources offered by the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Extension service. UF/IFAS Extension Website
• EarthBox website: Planting Boxes | Container Gardening | EarthBox
• Recipe for Cherry Tomato Bruschetta: Dive into Monica's easy recipe, perfect for making use of your garden's bounty.

Ingredients:

1 loaf French bread, cut into 1/4-inch slices

1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil

8 roma tomatoes, diced

⅓ cup chopped fresh basil

1 ounce Parmesan cheese, freshly grated

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

2 tsp extra-virgin olive oil

¼ tsp kosher salt

¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper

Directions:

1. Gather all ingredients
2. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
3. Brush bread slices on both sides lightly with 1 tbsp oil and place on large baking sheet. Toast bread until golden, 5 to 10 minutes, turning halfway through.
4. Toss together tomatoes, basil, Parmesan cheese, and garlic in a bowl.
5. Mix in balsamic vinegar, 2 tsp olive oil, kosher salt, and pepper.
6. Spoon tomato mixture onto toasted bread slices.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

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Happy New Year, Garden Foodies! In this episode, Ginain shares her holiday experience and emphasizes the importance of planning for the year, especially when it comes to kitchen and garden adventures. From trying new recipes to adopting sustainable practices, this episode is all about setting and achieving your kitchen garden goals for 2024.

1. Expanding Growing Space
   • Ginain revisits her plan to expand her garden space
2. Trying New Plants
3. Implementing Sustainable Practices
   • Water conservation strategies, including using a rain barrel.
   • Pros and cons of rainwater collection.
   • Continued focus on sustainable kitchen practices and reducing waste.
4. Educating and Involving Others
   • Involvement in Homegrown Hillsborough, a community initiative.
   • Future plans for local food system education and engagement.

• Announcement of the annual Smoothie Challenge with new detoxifying recipes.
• Availability of a free guide with recipes and tips on CookPraySlay
• Or you can sign up here
• Reminder to consult healthcare providers before starting new diet changes.

• Share your kitchen garden goals for the new year with Ginain!
• Look forward to bonus episodes and the new season of Cook The Garden.
• Encourage sharing the podcast with friends and family.

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