Bread Crumbs: These can be used as soup or casserole toppings or included in recipes such as meatballs or meatloaf and also for breading fried foods such as seafood.
Talapia with Bread Crumbs Recipe
Meatloaf Recipe
Meatball Recipes
Canned Fruits: Choose products with either No or Light Syrup (No High Fructose Corn Syrup) added.
Canned Veggies: Opt for LOWER Sodium products but be aware that LOWER SODIUM does NOT necessarily mean Low Sodium. Learn to read and compare labels in order to get the best nutritional benefits from the foods you are choosing.
Canned Tuna and Sardines/Herrings: Fish is a great protein pick me up and is an excellent option if you are concerned with portion control. There are also great health beneficial oils (Omega 3 Fats) that can be gained from eating sardines, which are typically colder water fish. Try to incorporate fish at least 3 times per week. I keep a stock on hand for a quick tuna salad or stuffed tuna pita pocket. I purchase both oil and water packed tuna and sardines can be bought plain or with flavored sauces.
Coffee: If you are a real fanatic when it comes to the QUALITY of coffee, invest in a coffee grinder and a decent coffee brewer/maker. If you just LOVE the morning pick me up and can deal with your brew simply tasting like hot lava, then stock up on instant coffee for that morning fix. Be aware of your caffeine intake, as some people may experience side effects such as stomach distress, restlessness, insomnia and irritability. If you have any of these symptoms, you might considering cutting OFF your caffeine consumption or as an alternative, cutting your intake by combining caffeinated and non-caffeinated coffee. Brew the Ultimate Cup of Coffee
Mustard and Ketchup: (organic and no sugar added sweetener). There are several brands and varieties that are available on the market. I personally stock yellow mustard, deli mustard and spicy brown and I spice up my ketchup by adding either spices or hot sauce to it.
Dried Beans: Add fiber, bulk and taste to your meals. There are way too many different types/varieties to mention here. I would suggest NEVER letting your bean stock dwindle and to always pre-soak them overnight before you cook them (make sure to drain the water after soaking) Doing this helps to ease any possible embarrassing “gastric” disturbances you might normally experience from eating beans.
Part II to follow……
