tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36821018927724608092024-02-08T00:05:20.786-05:00Sans SoyA curated collection of critiqued products made without soy. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480074736603327040noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682101892772460809.post-90891822833068095052016-06-05T22:55:00.001-04:002016-06-06T22:19:30.839-04:00Nocciolata Chocolate Hazelnut SpreadHave you noticed that spreads are a <i>thing</i> now? It seems every grocery store, bodega, and convenience store is stocked with all sorts of spreads for you to smooth onto toast, dunk a crudite into, or eat straight from the jar. In fact, I already reviewed a <a href="https://sanssoy.blogspot.com/2014/02/peanut-butter-co-dark-chocolate-dreams.html" target="_blank">dark </a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" target="_blank">chocolate peanut butter</a>, <a href="https://sanssoy.blogspot.com/2013/11/peanut-butter-co-white-chocolate.html" target="_blank">white chocolate peanut butter</a>, and <a href="https://sanssoy.blogspot.com/2014/03/cava-mezze-roasted-red-pepper-hummus.html" target="_blank">roasted red pepper hummus</a>, if you would like to see. The <i>nut butter-tahini-infusion-raw cacao-whatever</i> spread game is strong, my friends.<br />
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Usually, this is no problem as there are a variety of a brands from which to choose that are soy-free. But, what isn't soy-free? Nutella! Grab your box of Kleenex stat because this is one of the saddest stories in food history. Those who suffer from a soy allergy are unable to gorge themselves in what is one of the best snacks ever: chocolatey, hazelnuty, Nutella goodness.<br />
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That is why I am thrilled to have discovered <a class="g-profile" href="https://plus.google.com/100374737304798869274" target="_blank">+Nocciolata</a> chocolate hazelnut spread. This is almost identical as Nutella but it contains no soy at all, and is organic, too. Perfect! But, how does it perform in the <i>Sans Soy </i>test? <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgph6F4C0fr12S0fUUKNnKdB3XRYWLJQm2n2MFdIKplFxha86739H7AAUskW2XiNaFZmtBN8FUuH6FMpht4Xypj3tE50AyeJ438T95rclEpKeZP5UziIMb2nsksPdRx673PoFIWYiB1pk/s1600/Copy+of+soy-free-Nocciolata.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Nocciolata-hazelnut-spread-soy-free" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgph6F4C0fr12S0fUUKNnKdB3XRYWLJQm2n2MFdIKplFxha86739H7AAUskW2XiNaFZmtBN8FUuH6FMpht4Xypj3tE50AyeJ438T95rclEpKeZP5UziIMb2nsksPdRx673PoFIWYiB1pk/s400/Copy+of+soy-free-Nocciolata.jpg" title="" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>Quality:</b> Velvet and smooth. Thick and creamy. Sweet and nutty. All are adjectives I use to describe Nocciolata organic hazelnut spread. In fact, I dare to say this is the perfect soy-free Nutella alternative. The thick texture makes it perfect to eat on toast, dolloped on oatmeal, out of the jar, or however you please. Although it doesn't use soy to stay emulsified, there is no separation between the chocolate spread contents and minimal stirring is required before consumption. <br />
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<b>Taste:</b> There is little difference between Nocciolata chocolate hazelnut spread and its more well-known cousin, Nutella. The chocolate level is high but the Nocciolata brand is less sweet than Nutella, which I found that to be welcome change from the saccharine taste of Nutella. <br />
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<b>Price:</b> The price of Nocciolata Organic Hazelnut Spread with Cocoa & Milk varies depending on vendor. You can buy it for about $4.00 from Amazon <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Rigoni-Asiago-Nocciolata-Organic-Hazelnut/dp/B0016LL5DS?ie=UTF8&*Version*=1&*entries*=0" target="_blank">here</a>, but it is a bit more expensive at local, organic stores such as Yes! Organic Market in Washington, D.C.<br />
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<b>Overall grade:</b> A. Order a jar - or two or three or four! - ASAP. This stuff is the best and probably won't last long in your kitchen cabinet. Nocciolata is the perfect addition to top a banana, sweeten up oatmeal, spread on a crepe, or use on whatever you decide. The possibilities are endless. Although the jars are smaller than a standard tub of Nutella you may be accustomed to buying, the jars are glass, limiting exposure to harmful plastic toxins. Brownie points because the Italian Nocciolata chocolate spread is organic, GMO-free, hydrogenated oil-free, and of course, soy-free! Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480074736603327040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682101892772460809.post-33561725673470624592015-03-13T16:45:00.001-04:002015-03-16T22:56:33.571-04:00Restaurant Review: Shake Shack<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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This is not a review about burgers and fries from the
beloved <a class="g-profile" href="https://plus.google.com/107692326136254828256" target="_blank">+SHAKE SHACK</a> . Yes, the juicy hamburgers and crisp French fries may be
what many people salivate over at the fast food joint. I am not one of them.<br />
<br />
However, I do really like hot cocoa during the cold winter months as seen <a href="http://sanssoy.blogspot.com/2013/12/silly-cow-farms-hot-chocolate-drinks.html" target="_blank">here</a>
and <a href="http://sanssoy.blogspot.com/2013/11/whole-foods-365-hot-cocoa.html" target="_blank">here</a>, and I stopped in for a salted caramel hot chocolate during the latest winter storm
in D.C. Shake Shack makes a mean hot cocoa, in addition to its famed selection of meat
patties, hot dog variations, two types of fries, several creamy shakes, frozen custards, and
soda floats.</div>
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Are you drooling yet?</div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
It may not be healthiest food option, but the chain
restaurant does do an excellent job explaining <a href="https://www.shakeshack.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Shake-Shack-Allergen_NOV-2014.pdf" target="_blank">allergen information</a> contained
in each menu item. On its website, the company lists menu items based on vegetarian criteria,
and if it contains milk, eggs, peanuts, wheat, shellfish, tree nuts, fish,
gluten, sesame seeds, soy, or sulfites. To indicate that the ingredient may not
contain an allergen but was processed in a facility where possible cross-contact
occurs, a “P” is clearly displayed. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As for the salted caramel hot chocolate: soy-free with a
possibility of cross-contamination during processing.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKXKj4VzJ5F7q9MPVJbtKI7_Hm71Jn7jMuo7S3GUWAXd5yLWbLzY3-U-OwiniIIR_RAX83j8MpgWyfLgNThn5MMQbYusB-lqaNIj6qSFc1gpvYL23crPiMQIygOJprBYMvbsPbcoddkQQ/s1600/shake+shack.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKXKj4VzJ5F7q9MPVJbtKI7_Hm71Jn7jMuo7S3GUWAXd5yLWbLzY3-U-OwiniIIR_RAX83j8MpgWyfLgNThn5MMQbYusB-lqaNIj6qSFc1gpvYL23crPiMQIygOJprBYMvbsPbcoddkQQ/s1600/shake+shack.JPG" height="400" title="Shake Shack Dupont" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Overall grade: B</b>. Not all of the menu items at Shake Shack contain
soy. Yet, to be truly soy-free it’s best to avoid the famous hamburgers and fries, because
their website shows them to contain the allergen. Most of the frozen custards,
shakes, and beverages or soy-free. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480074736603327040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682101892772460809.post-68342695969251325922014-10-23T20:53:00.002-04:002014-10-23T20:55:45.761-04:00Beautiful KitchenwareRecently I was sidetracked by some gorgeous plates, bowls, and other kitchen utensils. Does anyone else like to browse and daydream about new, handmade serving platters and cups? No, just me? <br />
<br />
<a href="https://food52.com/provisions" target="_blank">Provisions</a>, the online store of <a href="http://food52.com/" target="_blank">Food52</a>, has an array of serving bowls, knives, and other dinner party-worthy items. They're all gorgeous, many are made in the U.S.A., and are simple enough for casual and fancy dinners alike. These pieces in particular caught my eye. <br />
<br />
Make some pasta or a big, green salad to serve in this beauty.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRlOwLqytja2XdXUfj1ByFuRbOLz9TLvqMIa__r9R9iDV7WNdl0I4_HDs-GWlOqFOIbU0j9OsN1hq-A1fyREaxnGmhCQpF6JlHB6_TM5gBI7oGKZ9NXnfP4_ezb_mGalc7bNWLv6Df2dw/s1600/porcelain+serving+bowl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="porcelain serving bowl " border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRlOwLqytja2XdXUfj1ByFuRbOLz9TLvqMIa__r9R9iDV7WNdl0I4_HDs-GWlOqFOIbU0j9OsN1hq-A1fyREaxnGmhCQpF6JlHB6_TM5gBI7oGKZ9NXnfP4_ezb_mGalc7bNWLv6Df2dw/s1600/porcelain+serving+bowl.jpg" height="640" title="" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://food52.com/provisions/products/1115-large-porcelain-serving-bowl" target="_blank">source</a></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Here in D.C., the weather is cool and crisp, a harbinger of winter. Wouldn't it be cozy and relaxing to <a href="http://sanssoy.blogspot.com/2014/01/palais-des-thes-du-hammam.html" target="_blank">drink some warm tea</a> out of these tea cups?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGvXSlUdtl5GJT4n1h5ViOHQTNZx-1Anm5etvCu5D9TGisXkOzaw1fUgkPEp3g9az1W0zZEZBnTf2hV2dlWyWMPoN6FsPJBb_MeaqtJ6w1BYGFvoZteeSN_KytQdYU6QTo3o-XesKTOjI/s1600/tea-time-for-two.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGvXSlUdtl5GJT4n1h5ViOHQTNZx-1Anm5etvCu5D9TGisXkOzaw1fUgkPEp3g9az1W0zZEZBnTf2hV2dlWyWMPoN6FsPJBb_MeaqtJ6w1BYGFvoZteeSN_KytQdYU6QTo3o-XesKTOjI/s1600/tea-time-for-two.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://food52.com/provisions/products/318-tea-time-for-two" target="_blank">source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Chopping up fruits and veggies would be even more enjoyable when preparing them on this walnut cutting board. Alternatively, it would make a lovely platter for cheese and fruit.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgExbwE6WWwnNw4RDqCYnhs7ojXDlYrPnHDOnz4-OmFQVBdHPLD7xKLWL-7n3fh_d6fLJnreQgvmbJCHkCpfs1fEU3hIN1GgqFEvQ90oZX4qS8Q5XhO9S9F_4I3YJjXiJDCSs9-m_Sdxg8/s1600/walnut-cutting-board.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgExbwE6WWwnNw4RDqCYnhs7ojXDlYrPnHDOnz4-OmFQVBdHPLD7xKLWL-7n3fh_d6fLJnreQgvmbJCHkCpfs1fEU3hIN1GgqFEvQ90oZX4qS8Q5XhO9S9F_4I3YJjXiJDCSs9-m_Sdxg8/s1600/walnut-cutting-board.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://food52.com/provisions/products/1208-walnut-cutting-board-with-handle" target="_blank">source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Are there any glasses or anything else you found yourself lusting after?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480074736603327040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682101892772460809.post-52449830186470590422014-10-11T17:18:00.002-04:002014-10-12T17:37:25.560-04:00Trader Joe's Vanilla Cultured MilkRaise your hand if you like yogurt. Raise your hand if you like coconut milk. Raise your hand if you make impulsive purchases at the grocery store. I raised my hand for all four of those questions, which is how I bought vanilla cultured coconut milk during a recent visit to Trader Joe's.<br />
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Technically not yogurt, this vegan, cultured, milk product is sold in the refrigerated section along with milks and butters. It's a quick and easy breakfast when on a vegan kick and craving a creamy yogurt. Combine it with fruit, chia seeds, or even as a base to make vanilla-flavored overnight oats.<br />
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How does the vanilla cultured coconut milk hold up in the <i>Sans Soy</i> test?<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSFBDX0x1apCl45S-oTYlRDTTgOSR4z0Uu-02QRGju_ZDI7YY8rUZnA4yIZETtwqcZrSBNHi3ll9PpvtkeWqdAuICIHcipxEvvcxa_lIx_MCKry6YwjbnUy2r4M1WfIaGosRtmG1242-g/s1600/vanillia-cultured-coconut-milk.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Trader Joe's Vanilla Cultured Coconut Milk" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSFBDX0x1apCl45S-oTYlRDTTgOSR4z0Uu-02QRGju_ZDI7YY8rUZnA4yIZETtwqcZrSBNHi3ll9PpvtkeWqdAuICIHcipxEvvcxa_lIx_MCKry6YwjbnUy2r4M1WfIaGosRtmG1242-g/s1600/vanillia-cultured-coconut-milk.JPG" height="640" title="" width="614" /></a></div>
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<b>Quality: </b>Similar to many generic, vegan products sold at food stores, the packaging is great, but the item itself has much to be desired. After initially opening the vanilla cultured coconut milk (not yogurt!), a layer of liquid is present. Not a big deal when stirred into the rest of the product. If not, a coating of vanilla-flavored fluid with a consistency similar to slime is the initial texture to reach the tongue. After mixing, the rest of the cultured milk is runny and gummy, the result, I suppose, of tapioca dextrose, organic rice starch, and additional thickeners. <br />
<br />
<b>Taste: </b>I enjoyed the floral and fragrant taste of this vegan pudding-yogurt-like cultured milk product. Despite it's name, the coconut flavors are barely noticeable and exist more in subdued undertones. The star of the show is vanilla and sugar, baby! I happen to love vanilla flavor, and the intense notes don't bother me. Yet, this stuff is sweetened with cane sugar, and one 6-ounce tub contains 19 grams<br />
of sugar!<br />
<br />
<b>Price: </b>One individual container of vanilla cultured coconut milk is not expensive. I can't state the accurate price because I threw out the receipt; I believe it was no more than $1.25, if less. <br />
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<b>Overall grade: </b>C. This vegan yogurt, I mean, vanilla cultured coconut milk did not live up to my expectations. The texture and consistency was too gooey and sticky for my preference. Although I found the vanilla flavor to be lovely, it was saccharine sweet. Palatable when paired with a plain grain, I wouldn't recommend it to a friend. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480074736603327040noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682101892772460809.post-15260594417568678622014-09-27T19:19:00.001-04:002014-09-27T19:28:33.464-04:00Whole Foods 365 Vanilla Almond MilkWow. Can you believe it is the end of September? I can't. It seems like yesterday that sandals, swimming, and sunscreen were a common denominator of the season. Now, autumn decorations are for sale, pumpkin-flavored everything are in grocery stores, and leaves are changing. Here's a fun fact. Did you know the color of which leaves change is based on the amount of sugar found in each tree? The next time someone comments on fall foliage, you can whip out that tidbit like the boss you are.<br />
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Speaking of fall and sugar, it's time for warm beverages to replace the cold. Why not use some vanilla almond milk to knock your tea up a notch? It's full of calcium, tasty, and makes you feel good when you talk about how healthy you are with friends. Because, who still drinks cow's milk?<i> That is so old school</i>. Just kidding, I still love getting a latte created with bovine milk, organic, of course. <br />
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Let's see how the generic brand of almond milk from <a class="g-profile" href="https://plus.google.com/108900531664537360582" target="_blank">+Whole Foods Market</a> , 365 Vanilla Almond Milk, performs on the Sans Soy taste test, shall we?<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_fBRRtrOMWX1d9OL8RXPwH2urSvRhLbA1BfVIzHGEYnhleGekWq9yYGgggnn7ZEnYWdarUX_lFYF6jduQI-FVZbKndS630KNUgbr8ZaC4eNmaUMv4jGe4hqSHi-avgu8kNbHdMrZEyCA/s1600/VanillaAlmondMilkTea.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Whole Foods Vegan Vanilla Almond Milk" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_fBRRtrOMWX1d9OL8RXPwH2urSvRhLbA1BfVIzHGEYnhleGekWq9yYGgggnn7ZEnYWdarUX_lFYF6jduQI-FVZbKndS630KNUgbr8ZaC4eNmaUMv4jGe4hqSHi-avgu8kNbHdMrZEyCA/s1600/VanillaAlmondMilkTea.JPG" height="640" title="Vanilla Almond Milk Tea" width="480" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8L1xkd2krUKb4PdK_OcDTfykcHhApYnR3YKFSOvVnMNV3ZUFuuTIR64-hT6D5Lv8aFYIpvJGlpDkVTTXjpQYua9En3ZNO28VSyaHGicaPLg2M9nddz84uNxG9DJVS7tofXMO5mgpDm7c/s1600/362AlmondMilk.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Whole Foods 365 Vanilla Almond Milk" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8L1xkd2krUKb4PdK_OcDTfykcHhApYnR3YKFSOvVnMNV3ZUFuuTIR64-hT6D5Lv8aFYIpvJGlpDkVTTXjpQYua9En3ZNO28VSyaHGicaPLg2M9nddz84uNxG9DJVS7tofXMO5mgpDm7c/s1600/362AlmondMilk.JPG" height="640" title="362 Vanilla Almond Milk" width="428" /></a></div>
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<br />
<b>Quality:</b> Compared to cow's milk, the almond milk is thick with a yellow tinge. The thickness and texture is not as smooth and lustrous as premium brand almond milks such as <a href="http://www.silk.com/" target="_blank">Silk</a> or <a href="http://pacificfoods.com/" target="_blank">Pacific Foods</a>. This almond milk is sweetened with organic cane sugar, and it is necessary to shake the box before pouring to ensure the contents are properly mixed. Nobody would like a glob to plop out into their newly brewed tea, would they? The liquid easily combines with others. When added to chia seeds, it makes a great vegan pudding. The emulsifying ingredient is sunflower lecithin, not soy lecithin. <br />
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<b>Taste: </b>This almond milk is sweetened and enhanced with vanilla extract. It is delicious, and will give you a slight sugar high if you drink too much. However, who says that is bad thing. I find the sweetness to be just right, yet others I know believer it to be too much. A one cup serving contains 15 grams of sugar. <br />
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<b>Price: </b>I can't say the price of this almond milk because I took it from my mother's pantry. What? Sharing is caring, people. However, I suspect it costs around $2.00 based on the price of other generic brand non-dairy beverages. <br />
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<b>Overall grade: B.</b> Yes, this almond milk was good. Will I buy it again? yes. Why doesn't it deserve an A? Well, the thickness and texture could be better. I would like the almond milk to have a rich texture that adds a creamy element lacking in the Whole Foods 365 Vanilla Almond Milk. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480074736603327040noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682101892772460809.post-14267788580019220662014-09-14T17:14:00.001-04:002014-09-14T20:17:08.269-04:00Back in Action I'mmmmm backkkkk! Okay, okay, I know I was MIA for a while. But, trust me, I have a long list of <strike>excuses</strike> reasons for not blogging.<br />
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First, I began a new job. Woo hoo! This job is awesome and 1000% more challenging, positive, engaging, and exciting than my old position. Next, I had a few business trips around the country. And traveling for work isn't all fun and games. You have to, you know, work! The work days on these trips typically run longer and busier than at the office. Afterwards, I was tirrrreeeddd and decided to laze about doing nothing for a while.<br />
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Then, I watched season two of <a href="http://www.netflix.com/WiMovie/70242311?mqso=81467273&gclid=Cj0KEQjw-dSgBRDb0oOl9MzxqMEBEiQAkHqy-doDn2KbeJG9RACbz2Qz9CyHCJs_XX65KaM16mPQNeQaAt1j8P8HAQ" target="_blank">Orange is the New Black</a><a href="http://www.netflix.com/WiMovie/70242311?mqso=81467273&gclid=Cj0KEQjw-dSgBRDb0oOl9MzxqMEBEiQAkHqy-doDn2KbeJG9RACbz2Qz9CyHCJs_XX65KaM16mPQNeQaAt1j8P8HAQ" target="_blank"> on Netflix</a>, because how could I NOT see what happened to little miss Piper after beating the heck out of Pennsatucky?! Then, <a href="http://abcfamily.go.com/shows/pretty-little-liars" target="_blank">Pretty Little Liars</a> started with a new season, and I JUST HAD to see if the tyrant behind A would be disclosed (Spoiler: The person behind A is still unknown. Shocking.) And then it was summer and I decided to ride my bike around the District of Columbia a whole lot.<br />
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To prove I wasn't just slacking (okay, I was), I made some elaborate pictures in Photoshop to show my activities that kept me from blogging about soy free food products.<br />
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Highlights include:<b> </b><br />
<br />
<b>Vacation</b><br />
I took a nice, long trip to Japan. And it was awesome! So sorry to brag. #sorrynotsorry<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
My time was spent traveling around Tokyo, eating sushi, avoiding soy, and hanging out. Japan is a gorgeous country, and I can't wait to return.<b> </b><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDKFpHqqY7g6g0VlLUdlo_dXf7GRr3UJ0qhZ3RUewgRSwu6wLYaKeNmZo2s0P04nkhrh-ubYyhya3Zxam9iPrnVbrrZ9bqqjK0BSBVX-4ZsaIyPqBLTWE-mjH7UOYgptnU__UtfTrjmPY/s1600/tokyo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Tokyo, tokyo tower, japan" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDKFpHqqY7g6g0VlLUdlo_dXf7GRr3UJ0qhZ3RUewgRSwu6wLYaKeNmZo2s0P04nkhrh-ubYyhya3Zxam9iPrnVbrrZ9bqqjK0BSBVX-4ZsaIyPqBLTWE-mjH7UOYgptnU__UtfTrjmPY/s1600/tokyo.jpg" height="400" title="" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>Lady Gaga</b></div>
I splurged for floor tickets when Lady Gaga performed at the Verizon Center in D.C., on her #artRAVE tour. Her show was incredible and impressive, quite possibly one of the best concerts that I have ever attended. Lady Gaga sang all the songs from the #artRAVE album, in addition to other well-known hits to include Bad Romance, Just Dance, Poker Face, and Telephone.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC6zKArQ8H6xgSXMnnPCuv2JvARGA5Ti4axc0kEf52OExAwgrQ33mOCSUojoECZZ36MpPMwprB8TnNaR_sF3gIbUdB3_Q4479rdTG27CepAa9lnI-nD1Cw6JSm4f-0TTCmNazkMybkjaA/s1600/lady+gaga.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Lady Gage #artRAVE" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC6zKArQ8H6xgSXMnnPCuv2JvARGA5Ti4axc0kEf52OExAwgrQ33mOCSUojoECZZ36MpPMwprB8TnNaR_sF3gIbUdB3_Q4479rdTG27CepAa9lnI-nD1Cw6JSm4f-0TTCmNazkMybkjaA/s1600/lady+gaga.png" height="640" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>San Francisco</b></div>
I went on a little trip to the west coast for my first visit to San Francisco. Technically, this was a work trip, and I did quite a lot of professional stuff there. But, this was my first business travel in a new position, and I was able to squeeze in additional time to sight see and soak in the ambiance of the city. I know I didn't do enough or eat at any of the trendy restaurants, however I now have a long list of establishments and activities to check off my list when I go back.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwWprkmKn7ajz1ApLlRi8vk62gUAKp4A2XPgjeMr4jz2rx6qNuz1WgJwhWSVKwcRv1qLv0_HsIRvvz6voWMYnP0aWWjTMPwNJ_uoR53qCNzGcjYgwkt9K6sHjGKYCwHtYmK0V8fzyYAus/s1600/San+Francisco.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="San Francisco, Alcatraz" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwWprkmKn7ajz1ApLlRi8vk62gUAKp4A2XPgjeMr4jz2rx6qNuz1WgJwhWSVKwcRv1qLv0_HsIRvvz6voWMYnP0aWWjTMPwNJ_uoR53qCNzGcjYgwkt9K6sHjGKYCwHtYmK0V8fzyYAus/s1600/San+Francisco.png" height="640" title="" width="640" /></a></div>
So, now that my guilty conscience has been cleared, I promise to keep up more with blogging. Let's get to it! Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480074736603327040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682101892772460809.post-52472293273667404892014-04-06T22:34:00.002-04:002016-06-05T22:30:29.271-04:003 Ways to Enjoy the Cherry Blossoms Wow! The unthinkable has happened: spring has arrived in Washington, D.C. Woohoo! No more (hopefully) snowy days and layering up to venture outdoors. Now, days can be filled wandering streets, dining on patios and even picnicking. Coinciding with this gorgeous spring weather is the annual debut of the cherry blossoms. Although the blooms still have a few days before the flowers really burst with pink, it is relaxing to take an early morning stroll around the circumference of the Tidal Basin at the National Mall to appreciate the blooming trees.<br />
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In D.C., it feels like the cherry blossoms have invaded and moved from just flowers on trees. Many shops and restaurants boast cherry blossom-themed food and beverages. However, it can be difficult to decipher if prepared food contains soy allergens. Here are three soy-free products to relish along with the cotton candy-like blooms. <br />
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<b>1.</b> <b>Harney & Sons Cherry Blossom Tea</b><br />
Warm up on a crisp spring night by sipping a warm cup of <a href="https://www.harney.com/cherry-blossom.html" target="_blank">cherry blossom tea</a>. This tea from British tea empire <a class="g-profile" href="https://plus.google.com/106061709364483496648" target="_blank">+Harney and Sons Fine Teas</a>, has a slightly sweet and floral fragrance that will leave you content. The plump cherry blossoms are added to green tea, and are available only in sachets. If drinking tea at night is not your <i>cup of tea</i>, why not brew the cherry blossom green tea in the morning and enjoy while appreciating the sakura on an early morning stroll?<br />
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<b>2. Prunotto Cherry Blossom Honey</b><br />
Honey paired with a cherry backdrop is a heavenly combination! This <a href="http://www.ilmercatoitaliano.net/prunotto-cherry-blossom-honey/" target="_blank">Italian honey</a> magically combines the honey and sakura flavors so well you will wonder where it has been your whole life. Add the cherry blossom honey to your cherry blossom tea, drizzle on yogurt, or top a warm biscuit with the sticky stuff. <br />
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<b>2. Capitol Kombucha, Cherry Blossom Flavor</b><br />
For those wishing to detox from an indulgent lifestyle or would just like to stay healthy, kombucha is a beverage with superpower benefits. Kombucha, a fermented tea drink infused with enzymes, amino acids and probiotics, helps the body detoxify toxins. Capitol Kombucha is made with organic tea, and the <a href="about:invalid#zClosurez" target="_blank">cherry blossom flavor</a> also has ingredients of cherries, rose water and honey. <br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480074736603327040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682101892772460809.post-26135281058424911052014-03-23T21:24:00.001-04:002014-03-23T21:24:46.089-04:00Whole Foods Greens With Envy JuiceWelcome to spring! According to the Spring Vernal Equinox, the season arrived on March 20, 2014 at 12:57 p.m. EDT. Even though my calendar says it is spring, and I should be basking in warm sunshine while frolicking through daffodil meadows, the reality differs. In Washington, D.C., it is still overcast, cold, and even a chance of snow in the near future! SNOW! Join me now as I grimace, "ew."<br />
<br />Trying to get in the spring mindset, I cleaned my apartment (i.e. light dusting while watching <i>Parenthood</i>) and I have been detoxing. Since green juices are all the rage now, I joined the party by picking up a <a href="https://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/service/cold-pressed-raw-juice" target="_blank">cold-pressed raw</a> Greens With Envy juice from my local Whole Foods Market. Boasting six juice blends, Whole Foods prepares in-house raw juices to maintain vitamins that are lost during the pasteurization process. <br />
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How does the Greens With Envy juice blend perform in the <i>Sans Soy</i> test?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQKmKB-rmbgA0sL-2m75BIFGt7d7GYc54Q2yyjgxUFreC7M2vbUxZxG85EyY-mlyeRbxuo5TUw_O_qSgIT_xa8J97CY_PEutRSy8Ozs9WmDQ3eX51LI793dpUNKLyGrBu5tC21plDzXIU/s1600/Image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQKmKB-rmbgA0sL-2m75BIFGt7d7GYc54Q2yyjgxUFreC7M2vbUxZxG85EyY-mlyeRbxuo5TUw_O_qSgIT_xa8J97CY_PEutRSy8Ozs9WmDQ3eX51LI793dpUNKLyGrBu5tC21plDzXIU/s1600/Image.jpg" height="640" width="532" /></a></div>
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<b>Quality:</b> Just thinking about the consumption of this bright emerald green juice makes you feel healthy. Drinking it makes you feel robust and complacent with your life choices, like you should be featured on <span>Gwyneth Paltrow's website, <i><a href="http://www.goop.com/" target="_blank">Goop</a></i>. The juice is not thick, and has been expertly strained to remove any little pieces of pulp that may squeeze through in the filtering process. As with all fresh and raw juices, consumption closest to the juicing date ensures the freshest liquid. </span><br />
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<b>Taste: </b>It may be hard to believe, but the Greens With Envy juice blend has a fresh, sweet taste with slightly bitter undertones. But, this is bitter in a "wow-I'm-so-healthy-for-drinking-a-raw-juice" way and not at all in a "this-tastes-really-gross-but-I'm-trying-to-be-healthy-and-trendy" way. Comprising kale, parsley, spinach, broccoli, cucumber, pear, pineapple and lemon, this juice tastes clean and is best drunk cold for a richer palatableness. <br />
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<b>Price: </b>One 16-ounce bottle costs $6.99 at Whole Foods Market.<br />
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<b>Overall grade:</b> A. This raw, cold-pressed juice receives Stephanie's gold star of approval. A plethora of vitamins are in one bottle that is reasonably priced considering the amount of fresh produce in each vessel. In addition to the health benefits of raw juices, any product that would be a stellar edition on <i>Goop</i> is worth trying in my book. <br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480074736603327040noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682101892772460809.post-67220793043377518712014-03-10T20:56:00.000-04:002014-03-23T19:44:52.500-04:00Cava Mezze Roasted Red Pepper HummusHave you ever wondered how hummus became popular with a cult following in the last few years? It seems it is on every menu, a staple party food, and coveted work snack. In fact, there is even this Buzzfeed article explaining <a href="http://www.buzzfeed.com/ailbhemalone/signs-youre-in-a-relationship-with-hummus" target="_blank">hummus obsessions</a>, and I relate to many of the claims. <br />
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Pureed chickpeas, garlic, lemon juice and a healthy dose of tahini paste are the building blocks of hummus. But the opportunities for the spread creations are endless. Cilantro, roasted garlic, and jalapeno are the tip of the hummus-ingredient-choices iceberg.<br />
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Similar to most people, I, too, have a <i>slight</i> obsession with hummus. There is something about the creamy and satisfying texture that I love. It is satiating without feeling heavy, velvety without using dairy, and zesty without using synthetic flavorings. Although, I do recommend reading ingredient labels because some generic hummus brands sneak in soybean oil, those cheats!<br />
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<a href="http://cavamezze.com/" target="_blank">Cava Mezze</a> brand does not use soybean oil in its hummus, and it is delicious. How does the roasted <a href="http://cavafoods.com/products/roasted-red-pepper-hummus" target="_blank">red pepper hummus</a> perform in the <i>Sans Soy</i> test? Let's see.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJOn1eJox8R7z_YVLzy-U1HTGDDLtF2b2T4wOzov60w5qdECoKhCRTbPpLGY1IiXi40_ZiJmyB3Wsoo8cCtHzTmUO5zb8nlp4uBiD0S3DT_zFBBZLNI0CVU8OxjR5ZTWHRg4oxDY6cc4s/s1600/red+pepper+hummus.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJOn1eJox8R7z_YVLzy-U1HTGDDLtF2b2T4wOzov60w5qdECoKhCRTbPpLGY1IiXi40_ZiJmyB3Wsoo8cCtHzTmUO5zb8nlp4uBiD0S3DT_zFBBZLNI0CVU8OxjR5ZTWHRg4oxDY6cc4s/s1600/red+pepper+hummus.jpg" height="640" width="533" /></a></div>
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<b>Quality:</b> In case the bright orange color did not alert you, the thick texture and garlic aroma make an authoritative stance to show this hummus means business! Tiny, crimson specks of roasted red pepper swirl around the dip. Moister than competitor's hummus, the spread is dexterous, and does not fall off carrot sticks or slip out of a makeshift tortilla. <br />
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<b>Taste: </b>As a result of the roasting procedure, the red peppers create a delightful sweet undertone. This perfectly complements the fiery garlic presence. As the main ingredient in hummus is a garbanzo bean, hummus may have a tendency to have an earthy undertone. Yet, this hummus is vibrant. <br />
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<b>Price: </b>One 8-ounce tub of hummus costs $3.99 at my local Whole Foods Market. <br />
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<b>Overall grade:</b> B+. This is a great hummus, and I enjoyed dipping, smearing and sandwiching it between bread. Although I liked the sweet, roasted red pepper flavor, the intensity of the flavor could be a bit much after awhile. Bonus points are given because Cava Mezze has local restaurants in the D.C., area, and are always wonderful to grab some nibbles, a glass of wine and catch up with friends. <br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480074736603327040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682101892772460809.post-26054641232127748162014-03-03T00:59:00.001-05:002014-03-06T12:49:00.480-05:00Goldilocks Goodies Double Chocolate Pecan cookies<i>Once upon a time there was a little blonde girl named Stephanie who was on the quest to find the perfect cookie. Her expectations were high, but she was positive the ideal cookie would be found. She ventured into her local grocery store to search the endless aisles of healthy junk food. "But, these cookies are made with soy," she exclaimed when looking at one box. "And these cookies taste like glorified dog treats," she thought after tasting a sample of other treats. Disappointed, she left the supermarket. </i><br />
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<i>On her way home she decided to grab a cup of tea at a local coffee shop that also sells food products from small businesses. What did Stephanie find at the coffee shop? She found the cookies that were just right: soy-free chocolate cookies. </i><br />
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<a href="http://goldilocksgoodies.com/" target="_blank">Goldilocks Goodies</a> is a bakery company creating small batches of sweets in Lancaster Country, Pennsylvania. The sweets are a dream for those wishing to avoid allergies as every product is gluten-free, grain-free, soy-free, corn-free, vegan, and made with natural, wholesome ingredients. <br />
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Let's see if these cookies would satisfy a particular Goldilocks in the <i>Sans Soy</i> test.<br />
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<b>Product:</b> Goldilocks Goodies Double Chocolate Pecan cookies<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLBfLI1UyDbJ4cVKLhZVoGdC2d6pzPka7snXON5vW_HJAT9I8AOoJU83QDxSr4vlGDw0eyAR9uPv1sr9op0ETBdbgS6behzJsJkTkKPLVZw66jX0dWQkDaaqUGAji9gzVyM4F4GnV_Ofs/s1600/cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLBfLI1UyDbJ4cVKLhZVoGdC2d6pzPka7snXON5vW_HJAT9I8AOoJU83QDxSr4vlGDw0eyAR9uPv1sr9op0ETBdbgS6behzJsJkTkKPLVZw66jX0dWQkDaaqUGAji9gzVyM4F4GnV_Ofs/s1600/cookies.jpg" height="640" width="533" /></a></div>
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<b>Quality: </b>Density is the name of the game with these cookies. As they are gluten-free and dairy-free, the cookies do not contain wheat flour, butter or eggs. To compensate, the cookies are made from a batter comprising finely ground peanuts, almond meal, and almond butter. As a result, the texture is very chewy and the consistency is on the sticky side. Eating a few cookies is a major jaw workout. The chocolate chips are made soy-free from a mixture of chocolate liquor, vegan cocoa butter, and evaporated cane sugar. <br />
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<b>Taste: </b>Finely ground peanuts are the backbone of these cookies and replaces the flour used in traditional baked goods. The combination of this with the chocolate results in the cookie version of <a href="http://sanssoy.blogspot.com/2014/02/peanut-butter-co-dark-chocolate-dreams.html" target="_blank">dark chocolate peanut butter</a> I previously reviewed. Following the nut and chocolate flavors is a strong cinnamon undertone. The visible salt crystals on the exterior of the cookie help to offset the sweetness from the sugar and cocoa.<br />
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<b>Price: </b>One pouch of six cookies of about two inches in diameter cost $7.75. <br />
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<b>Overall grade:</b> B+. Yes, Goldilocks Goodies Double Chocolate Pecan cookies were just right for a soy-free, vegan, gluten-free treat. An extra effort of jaw power is needed to power through the cookies because they are dense. I feel the cookies are pricey at almost eight dollars for six small cookies. Overall, the cookies are a tasty and somewhat healthy treat that would please even the most food allergy-laden critic.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480074736603327040noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682101892772460809.post-21285367893092469692014-02-24T16:45:00.003-05:002014-03-03T01:01:02.882-05:00Peanut Butter & Co. Dark Chocolate Dreams <div class="MsoNormal">
We are still in the month of
February. This time of year seems to move at a glacial pace. Short days, cold
weather, and dark winter skies do not assist with the enthusiasm I find myself
lacking mid-winter. However, as I keep attempting to eat well and drink hot
tea, I have been on the lookout for a soy free, sweet way to cheer
myself up from the “blahs.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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One way I like to treat myself
without feeling too guilty is by pairing my indulgence with a healthy partner.
Yesterday, it was <a class="g-profile" href="https://plus.google.com/103274624152744663999" target="_blank">+Peanut Butter & Co.</a> Dark Chocolate Dreams with a side of
fresh, Fuji apple. The chocolate satisfied my sweet tooth, and the apple was
fresh. In my book, that is a win-win scenario. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Previously, I wrote about my
experience with another Peanut Butter & Co. product, White Chocolate
Wonderful. The <a href="http://sanssoy.blogspot.com/2013/11/peanut-butter-co-white-chocolate.html">peanut
butter and white chocolate spread</a> performed well in the <i>Sans Soy</i> test, but did its dark
chocolate sibling fare the same? <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHLmkW2R2HdmN4kEv-whXz6eI_dFHtNL04zSL77DfRz-JrtaM94j57bRQopneuf_wKbXu9DChtqSxVDulDrSwBKy9GxR0FrjhVg1bo-spN9ulcSUDvY6kwwFCjfm3QOc9RIWqXX-afjhY/s1600/Image+(9).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Peanut Butter & Co. Dark Chocolate Dreams " border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHLmkW2R2HdmN4kEv-whXz6eI_dFHtNL04zSL77DfRz-JrtaM94j57bRQopneuf_wKbXu9DChtqSxVDulDrSwBKy9GxR0FrjhVg1bo-spN9ulcSUDvY6kwwFCjfm3QOc9RIWqXX-afjhY/s1600/Image+(9).jpg" height="640" title="Peanut Butter & Co. Dark Chocolate Dreams " width="532" /></a></div>
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<b>Product:</b> <a href="http://ilovepeanutbutter.com/" target="_blank">Peanut Butter& Co.</a> Dark Chocolate Dreams<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2aeZjLR0IvKSdzShHeN1P_xG908btkVYMqK-dP1d-Rlu2nbWNHjN-kOWVS0uiJgg_6L2_aB2o2gg8lQgzu96Bel8LLsceDgwkXN6eg55pJfeGeY-NeCe0R1fgVHzU4K_JJZk-ofNhTB0/s1600/Image+%25288%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter " border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2aeZjLR0IvKSdzShHeN1P_xG908btkVYMqK-dP1d-Rlu2nbWNHjN-kOWVS0uiJgg_6L2_aB2o2gg8lQgzu96Bel8LLsceDgwkXN6eg55pJfeGeY-NeCe0R1fgVHzU4K_JJZk-ofNhTB0/s1600/Image+%25288%2529.jpg" height="640" title="Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter " width="532" /></a></div>
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<b>Quality: </b>The
peanut butter has a consistency that is thick and velvety. A chocolate aroma with
peanut undertones quickly fills the air once the jar is opened. As previously
noted with the white chocolate spread, this butter does involve extra effort to
smear on bread. Unlike more common peanut butter brands, the ground peanuts and
oil do not separate to create an unsightly top layer when initially opening the
jar. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Taste: </b>Peanuts
are detected in this spread, after all, it is peanut butter. However, the
shining star is the chocolate. Ever so sweet, and slightly bitter, the chocolate
enables the spread to be sweet without rotting teeth. A faint taste of vanilla
rounds out the flavors. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Price: </b>One jar of
the dark chocolate peanut butter costs $6.00 from the Peanut Butter & Co. <a href="http://ilovepeanutbutter.com/peanut-butter-1.html">online store</a>. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Overall grade: </b>B+. I
enjoyed the pairing of dark chocolate with peanut butter. The consistency, even
being thick, was easy to blanket my apple slices without fear of slipping off. Also, it would be delicious topping a banana. In line with organic nut butters found at health food stores, the price is reasonable.
But, this is not a product made with organic ingredients, which would be an addition I
would happily enjoy. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">P.S. The Dark Chocolate Dreams Sandwich at the<a href="http://ilovepeanutbutter.com/sandwichshop" target="_blank"> Peanut Butter& Co. NYC Sandwich Shop</a> looks delicious. A sandwich made with dark
chocolate peanut butter, cherry jam, and shredded coconuts? Yes, please!</span> <o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480074736603327040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682101892772460809.post-2780222384602484502014-02-14T17:38:00.000-05:002014-03-05T10:06:25.878-05:00Five Soy Free Treats to Enjoy this Valentine's Day<div class="MsoNormal">
Happy Valentine’s Day! In keeping with the commercialization
theory about the basis of the holiday, here are five, soy free sweets. Though
all of the items may not be healthy or organic, none of the items contain soy, and
many are vegan! It is the day of love, so why not treat yo self?<o:p></o:p><b> </b><br />
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<b>1. <a href="https://www.theochocolate.com/" target="_blank">Theo Chocolate</a> Bars: Two Flavors</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Just in time for Saint Valentine’s Day, Theo Chocolate has produced two limited edition flavors perfect for the
holiday. <a href="https://www.theochocolate.com/product/113/175">My Cherry Baby</a>
is a 45% milk chocolate bar sprinkled with dried cherries and vanilla bean. <a href="https://www.theochocolate.com/product/112/175">Cinnamon Love Crunch</a> is
a chocolate bar comprising 70% dark chocolate and the spicy crunch of cinnamon
brittle. Both would be excellent to share (if you are generous) or keep for
yourself.<o:p></o:p><b> </b><br />
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<b>2. Butterscotch Peanut Butter from <a href="http://mimiscookiebar.com/">Mimi’s Cookie Bar</a></b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Decadent with a savory side, the <a href="http://mimiscookiebar.com/nut-butters-sauces/">Butterscotch Peanut Butter</a>
is divine to spread on a saltine cracker, smother an apple slice, or even plop
on a bowl of oatmeal. Although the peanut butter is not vegan, it does not
contain soy. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>3. Fuego Salsa from <a href="http://www.lafundidora.com/shop/the-falls-framed-print">La Fundidora</a></b><o:p></o:p><br />
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Even if Cupid did not add spice to your
love life, you can add some pizazz to Valentine’s Day by diving into a jar of
salsa. Created with tomatoes, tomatillos and a variety of chiles, the Fuego <a href="http://www.lafundidora.com/shop/the-falls-framed-print">salsa</a> makes
chips, eggs or tacos more exciting.<br />
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<a href="http://www.buddhachocolate.com/pages/buddha-cups" target="_blank"><o:p></o:p></a></div>
<a href="http://www.buddhachocolate.com/pages/buddha-cups" target="_blank"><b>4. Buddha Chocolate BuddhaCup</b></a><o:p></o:p><br />
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Made with love in Brooklyn, New York, the
chocolate at <a href="http://www.buddhachocolate.com/">Buddha Chocolate</a> is
raw and sweetened with coconut palm crystals. No need to feel guilty after consuming
a Buddha Cup, each treat is filled with almond butter and surrounded by dark
chocolate. What a tasty way to fill up on protein and antioxidants, no?<br />
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<b>5. <a href="http://www.infusedspreads.com/" target="_blank">inFUSED Spreads</a> Strawberry Lavender Jam</b><o:p></o:p></div>
Perfect to befriend afternoon tea or
breakfast toast, this <a href="http://www.infusedspreads.com/jams/" target="_blank">jam</a> contains simple, soy free ingredients: strawberry,
sugar, lemon juice and lavender flowers. On an ordinary day, this jam would be
great, but why not sweeten up Valentine’s Day by adding it to your
mid-afternoon snack routine.<br />
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<o:p></o:p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480074736603327040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682101892772460809.post-58267361436636698292014-02-04T20:30:00.001-05:002014-02-05T10:10:53.121-05:00Restaurant Review: Pei Wei Asian Diner<div dir="ltr">
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Happy {Chinese} New Year! For many, the new year began on
January 1. However, last weekend was the celebration of the Chinese New Year, marking 2014 as the year of the horse. In honor of the Asian celebration, I decided to look at
a popular American Chinese restaurant chain, <a href="http://www.peiwei.com/index.aspx" target="_blank">Pei Wei Asian Diner</a>, and evaluate
their menu for <i>Sans Soy</i>. Chinese food is delicious, but it is also a well-known
fact that the dishes oftentimes are full of additives such as MSG and soy
sauce. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ZjR2pMGggG9i3xisopgOEsVxgehc3SDoOVFuEH6o36r28OLwQF5PzNxMW4XDA3Kov-8bzbSyIpFZLziW3iQZq7woiqbd2PqvFk9dpx_bIm6uRkqYQ4HNUbTnIGzaHrGa8uhwuR-ytYQ/s1600/Image(6).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5ZjR2pMGggG9i3xisopgOEsVxgehc3SDoOVFuEH6o36r28OLwQF5PzNxMW4XDA3Kov-8bzbSyIpFZLziW3iQZq7woiqbd2PqvFk9dpx_bIm6uRkqYQ4HNUbTnIGzaHrGa8uhwuR-ytYQ/s1600/Image(6).jpg" height="640" width="532" /></a></div>
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Growing up, I enjoyed plenty of food from my neighborhood
<a href="http://www.pfchangs.com/index.aspx" target="_blank">P.F. Chang’s China Bistro</a>, only to sacrifice my health for the following
days. It took me a while to connect (one of my <i>slower</i> moments) the swelling and crankiness I endured after Chinese
food consumption to the ingredients. Now, I rarely consume Chinese food.
However, a brand new <a class="g-profile" href="https://plus.google.com/100073910372607295778" target="_blank">+Pei Wei Asian Diner</a>, the little brother of <a class="g-profile" href="https://plus.google.com/111615989782351135269" target="_blank">+P.F. Chang's</a>, opened in my Dupont Circle neighborhood in the District. As I
walked by the diner, I started to think about the ingredients which must go
into their wonton soup, steaming noodle bowls and crispy spring rolls.</div>
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Reviewing the menu for Pei Wei is not surprising: almost every dish and condiment offered contains soy. However, the Chinese fast food restaurant does an excellent job clearly indicating allergens through its <a href="http://www.peiwei.com/downloads/Peiwei_nutritionals_allergies_info.html#allergies" target="_blank">nutritional info chart</a>. In addition to labeling menu items containing soy, other allergens that are marked include corn, mushroom, sesame and sulfites.</div>
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<b>Overall grade:</b> C-. The Chinese food chain gets major points for easily displaying food allergens to its customers. However, someone who wishes to avoid soy would have difficulty doing so at Pei Wei Asian Diner due to the limited number of soy free plates. The sweet chili sauce may be soy free, but it is hard to enjoy when the vegetable spring rolls, crispy potstickers and Vietnamese chicken salad rolls are laden with soy. I would gladly eat here if there were a wider array of soy free food choices. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480074736603327040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682101892772460809.post-7182541777928212362014-01-28T17:10:00.000-05:002014-01-28T17:11:15.619-05:00Wasa Sourdough CrispbreadHello readers! Cold season has arrived in full force here in Washington, D.C. I have been blessed with two monstrous colds in the past month, which has resulted in countless hours in bed, plenty of mugs overflowing with tea, and, sadly, a bland diet of soup. Out of desperation to find a snack with equal amount of crunch and flavorlessness to keep my stomach happy, I found <a href="http://www.wasa-usa.com/products/crispbread/sourdough/pack/" target="_blank">Wasa </a>Sourdough Crispbread. These Swedish babies offer a minimal ingredient list, all which are soy free! The brain baby from the Swedes—people who live in a country much colder than Washington, D.C.—I hoped the crackers could help me kick my colds to the curb.<br />
<br />
Let's see how Wasa Sourdough Crispbreads performed in the <i>Sans Soy</i> test.<br />
<br />
<b>Product:</b> Wasa Sourdough Crispbread<br />
<br />
<b>Quality:</b> Initially, I was unsure what to expect prior to opening a package of Wasa crackers. I am ignorant about Swedish culture and foods; I insultingly think a main food group must be meatballs as a result of the meals available for purchase at IKEA. Dark brown in color, each rectangular cracker had a light dusting of leftover baking flour. Crisp and crunchy they were, almost reaching the staleness state. Nary a grain of salt was present on the crispbreads. However, when paired with a bowl of hot soup, the dry and crisp cracker was perfect for absorbing the simmering liquid without becoming a pile of mush.<br />
<br />
<b>Taste:</b> True to its description as a sourdough crispbread, a small amount of tang is present in every bite. The tang, however, is the only exciting attribute possessed by the crackers. There is a lack of salt, spice or anything else nice, and the crackers are best enjoyed when supporting a decadent dip. I cannot help but dream of using a crispbread as the backbone for a goat cheese and smoked salmon tartine.<br />
<br />
<b>Price:</b> One package of crispbreads cost me $2.98 at my neighborhood grocery store.<br />
<br />
<b>Overall grade: </b>C+. Lacking flavor with questionable freshness, these crispbreads are the perfect accompaniment when unable to fathom much food. However, what the sourdough crackers lack in flavor, they make up by serving as a supporting character with soup, creamy spreads, or a sinful dip looking to be in the spotlight.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480074736603327040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682101892772460809.post-11006406085752093782014-01-11T17:16:00.001-05:002014-01-13T15:42:25.450-05:00Trader Joe's Milk Chocolate Truffle BarWho does not love chocolate? Not me, that is for sure. At times, I can have a humongous sweet tooth. This sugar craving is the reason why an organic chocolate bar landed in my shopping cart at <a href="http://traderjoes.com/" target="_blank">Trader Joe's</a>. I was doing well eating clean as I stocked up on fresh produce such as kale, apples and avocados, but the chocolate arrived in my basket while I impatiently waited in line to check out. <br />
<br />
Oftentimes, chocolate is made with soy lecithin, an emulsifying agent. For those who suffer from a soy allergy, this is detrimental. After reading the ingredients on my organic chocolate wrapper, I was pleasantly surprised to see a lack of soy. But, does a generic brand of organic, soy-free chocolate hold up well in the <i>Sans Soy</i> test?<br />
<br />
<b>Product:</b> Trader Joe's Organic Milk Chocolate Truffle Bar<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidUmiVk10tVK476ryD7AptD3vXQW83k2hW5up2UKUEMrw-MqNPyVtV_E6cC2E7dFN8mkWbDoII3AB4xuHpUE-5Mhz9we0-dAdhzmvkxNaMASIwe3IRkkG9U6TL0jmZbNt2J94BShLMYuw/s1600/Image(5).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidUmiVk10tVK476ryD7AptD3vXQW83k2hW5up2UKUEMrw-MqNPyVtV_E6cC2E7dFN8mkWbDoII3AB4xuHpUE-5Mhz9we0-dAdhzmvkxNaMASIwe3IRkkG9U6TL0jmZbNt2J94BShLMYuw/s1600/Image(5).jpg" height="640" title="Trader Joe's Organic Milk Chocolate" width="532" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Quality:</b> For those with willpower and are able to consume solely one quadrilateral of chocolate at a time, the chocolate bar is portioned out into small rectangles, The color is a creamy brown, and melts easily. However, there is a bit of grittiness to the chocolate, as if the sugar did not completely dissolve before hardening.<br />
<br />
<b>Taste: </b>A strong chocolate presence is missing from this chocolate bar. At times, I could not decide if the mellow flavor was a bonus, or if it was reminiscent of chalk. The word "truffle" in the product title had me expecting a luscious chocolate and dairy combination, yet the mix was reminiscent of hot chocolate I drank at school—diluted and dull. There were, however, lovely undertones of caramel and vanilla which complement the rich cocoa flavors.<br />
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<b>Price: </b>One chocolate bar costs $1.99 at Trader Joe's.<br />
<br />
<b>Overall grade: </b>C+. This bar of chocolate did not mesh well with me. I found the taste to be incomplete, and the texture to contain grit. Compared to another <a href="http://sanssoy.blogspot.com/2013/11/theo-pure-45-milk-chocolate.html" target="_blank">soy-free chocolate bar</a> I reviewed, this generic one is lacking in depth of flavor. However, it is organic, and the price can't be beat. <br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480074736603327040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682101892772460809.post-85859402748567357942014-01-05T15:54:00.000-05:002014-01-08T14:04:08.281-05:00Palais des Thés: Thé du Hammam<i>J'aime bien la France</i>. Immediately following my college graduation, I moved to France to teach English in a <i>lyc</i><i>ée</i>. The weather turned cold and dreary, and I spent a lot of time defrosting in <i>salon des th</i><i>és</i>, or tea houses. Choosing <i>une tasse</i> from the large selection of herbal loose leaf teas soon became one of my favorite activities to do when escaping the frigid temperatures.<br />
<br />
A few days ago I was feeling nostalgic for my time in France, and decided to attempt to relive it by drinking a warm cup of flower-infused liquid. Reading the tea ingredients was when my walk down memory lane turned sour. Rosehips. <i>Magnifique!</i> Hibiscus. <i>G</i><i>énial!</i> Orange peel. <i>Merveilleux!</i> Soy lecithin. <i>What the oh la la?!</i> <i>Oui</i>, soy lecithin is commonly used as a binding agent in herbal teas. <i>Quelle horreur!</i><br />
<br />
Luckily, I bought a tin of flavored tea from the French tea house, <a class="g-profile" href="https://plus.google.com/105788176863105577597" target="_blank">+Palais des Thés</a> , on a recent trip abroad. The tea is soy free, but how does the Palais des Thés green tea, Thé
du Hammam, perform in the <i>Sans Soy</i> test?<br />
<br />
<b>Product:</b> Palais des Thés green tea: Thé
du Hammam<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizPB7-62_hvAlW8SOXJYjYw75Fczc20PzCVQHWis3dgJGM68lRxdHDrxsdSJ88nR0x696guMum_Vyy40JgrGM5coAUGOTgX_0_NjkpZnL_gm5bWzelkGIekSdEbGwp_5HFmOJxa_Qm60U/s1600/Image(4).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizPB7-62_hvAlW8SOXJYjYw75Fczc20PzCVQHWis3dgJGM68lRxdHDrxsdSJ88nR0x696guMum_Vyy40JgrGM5coAUGOTgX_0_NjkpZnL_gm5bWzelkGIekSdEbGwp_5HFmOJxa_Qm60U/s1600/Image(4).jpg" height="640" width="532" /></a></div>
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<b>Quality:</b> The tea is a simple blend of green tea, rose, green date, berry and orange flower water. A blossomy aroma first hits the nose with notes of rose and orange. Individual dried rose petals are prevalent throughout the blend. Once combined with hot water, the tea turns the liquid a light brown color with warm green undertones. <br />
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<b>Taste: </b>Slightly sweet and floral, the flavor is delicate much like a diluted aromatherapy candle. A sip warms the belly while tasting like an edible flower. A steep time of three to four minutes is all that is needed to make the floral notes sing, and any longer creates a bitter taste.<br />
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<b>Price: </b>Purchase loose leaf or sachets of the <a href="http://us.palaisdesthes.com/en_us/the-du-hammam-1674.html" target="_blank">tea</a> from the Palais des Thés Web site. Prices range between $13 and $19. This may sound pricey, but one tin of loose leaf tea lasts months, and the quality is top-notch.<br />
<br />
<b>Overall grade:</b> A. I have many good memories with not just the Thé
du Hammam flavor, but with many other Palais des Thés teas. The teas are some of the most flavorful filled with quality ingredients to make pleasurable tea-drinking experience. My only criticism is that I wish Palais des Thés was sold in the United States. Does anyone know of any place where I can find this brand in the U.S.? Maybe I will have to move back to France.<br />
<br />
**Update: Palais des Thés has informed me that there are two shops selling the tea in <a href="http://us.palaisdesthes.com/en_us/about-us/news/our-stores-in-NYC/" target="_blank">New York</a>. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480074736603327040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682101892772460809.post-55078216033132532642013-12-31T13:11:00.000-05:002014-01-04T21:23:53.293-05:00So Delicious Mint Chocolate Coconut Milk <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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A colleague of mine is on a vegan kick. She tells me about
her latest meat-, dairy-, and egg-free adventures and recipes. The creation and
innovation that goes into making some vegan foods amazes me. Although I am not
a vegan, I do appreciate the lifestyle and oftentimes find myself eating
without any animal products at all. From time to time we, my colleague and I,
share vegan treats. To get in the holiday spirit, I bought a nut milk, <a href="http://sodeliciousdairyfree.com/products/coconut-milk-beverages" target="_blank">So Delicious Mint Chocolate Coconut Milk</a>, that was sworn to
taste like liquid peppermint patties. The selection of <a href="http://sodeliciousdairyfree.com/products/coconut-milk-beverages" target="_blank">So Delicous</a> products were on sale at the time, and, in
addition to the coconut health benefits of fewer calories and fat, it seemed
like the perfect nondairy treat for Christmastime. The name sounds impressive,
but how did the So Delicious Mint Chocolate Coconut Milk do in the <i>Sans Soy</i>
test?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAeb6QZH78PpDvTAo3x97ezYAey-4ucGfDDvuW-lgjSihCru7NY64m-dUxjoJd1WOMxirXKOhOqkoga5WEZ8qoqzXCT1YBEK90Ik5vFbmV31hWl406uimyXnzg54LoCRmfLCyz9SO5YLg/s1600/Milk-Chocolate-Coconut-Milk.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAeb6QZH78PpDvTAo3x97ezYAey-4ucGfDDvuW-lgjSihCru7NY64m-dUxjoJd1WOMxirXKOhOqkoga5WEZ8qoqzXCT1YBEK90Ik5vFbmV31hWl406uimyXnzg54LoCRmfLCyz9SO5YLg/s640/Milk-Chocolate-Coconut-Milk.jpg" height="640" width="532" /></a></div>
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<b>Product:</b> <a href="http://sodeliciousdairyfree.com/products/coconut-milk-beverages/mint-chocolate">So Delicious Mint Chocolate Coconut Milk</a></div>
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<b>Quality:</b> The milk is thick and even has a beautiful, creamy
brown color. Initially, I did not adequately shake up the beverage before pouring
which led to a translucent khaki-colored liquid to dispense. However, I
shook the carton with more vigor and all clear liquid disappeared. When I sniffed
the milk, I scented a peppermint explosion<span style="mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">—the smell
was strong! I was unsure of what to expect about the texture of the coconut
milk, however the liquid was smooth as silk. </span></div>
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<b>Taste:</b> Peppermint is a powerful component of the coconut
milk’s taste, quickly followed by chocolate. The two flavors work well
together, creating a harmony without overpowering the other. Added sugars made
the milk to be saccharine and syrupy on its own, most likely due to the use of
stevia. Yet, the sweetness was excellent when combined with some coffee to make
a holiday twist on the traditional mocha drink.</div>
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<b>Price:</b> The mint chocolate coconut milk is available in the
size of one quart. On sale at my
local <a href="http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/">Whole Foods Market</a>, I paid $2.99 for one carton.</div>
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<b>Overall grade:</b> B. The flavored coconut milk did not hit the
ball out of the park in my book, but this is due to personal taste bud
opinions. The texture was not bad, but not outstanding, either. I recommend giving the bad boy a hardy
shake prior to each use. Once opened, the milk turns sour in seven to ten days. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480074736603327040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682101892772460809.post-19827409917766060982013-12-25T08:23:00.001-05:002013-12-26T21:09:43.810-05:00Restaurant Review: FroZenYo<div class="MsoNormal">
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There comes a time in everyone’s life when they want to be
empowered to make their own choice. Maybe the choice is of life altering
status, perhaps, deciding to move to a new country. Other times, the choice is
minuscule, on the same scale of choosing the color of socks to wear. No matter
the decision size, the ability to choose is a wonderful privilege. Last Sunday, I had a
moment of selection insignificance. I was hot from biking around the District, and I was
hungry. I rode past a ubiquitous frozen yogurt shop, <a class="g-profile" href="https://plus.google.com/112566721169635366578" target="_blank">+FroZenYo</a> , and elected to cool down from the unseasonal warm weather. </div>
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For those who thrive on the ability to choose—sometimes referred to as <i>control freaks</i>—a joint like <a href="http://frozenyo.com/">FroZenYo</a> is ideal. This type of place was made for the strong-willed. All of the yogurts are soft-serve, allowing customers the ability to choose precisely how much cake batter-flavored yogurt they would like to straddle their generous swirl of peppermint frozen yogurt, complete with a dollop of caramel-flavored yogurt. A generous topping bar further gives customers the gift of selection by allowing guests to sprinkle their cold treats with garnishes including sugary sauces, fresh fruit, nuts, gummy candies, chocolates and more. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm27-pcJr2UhEHKQpwNNOGbTYRRF0G2CCBnHsNnkX8DTiqKQSiGhwq1f7_Ee728w_ItMEbadfliu8LXvPp3f6y5mU5v9bxrupyrj4fWyvkCdu7bage4WSqANhvhb8aVhNBO0IzL9qc0WI/s1600/Image(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm27-pcJr2UhEHKQpwNNOGbTYRRF0G2CCBnHsNnkX8DTiqKQSiGhwq1f7_Ee728w_ItMEbadfliu8LXvPp3f6y5mU5v9bxrupyrj4fWyvkCdu7bage4WSqANhvhb8aVhNBO0IzL9qc0WI/s1600/Image(2).jpg" height="640" width="532" /></a></div>
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Although the self-serve frozen yogurt is not organic, and loaded with chemicals to create alluring flavors such as snickerdoodle, salted caramel pretzel, and nondairy raspberry pomegranate sorbet, FroZenYo clearly displays in its stores common allergens found in each flavor. The yogurt flavors containing soy have an "S" displayed on the nutrition chart, which easily allows customers to avoid soy products if they wish. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIgE8oQNmKT-na_CFE1kz3fRglIUmFqYiFfOotoQbIVCpFoYH0bTCjbWEF0DpKRLt84JylKApaxN-rhMJzfZ_ecqsbmNwIUzCGLf-ydlFX8xgc6hy6my__tbrSuLA9bcwO1uas0pDoOjg/s1600/Image(3).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIgE8oQNmKT-na_CFE1kz3fRglIUmFqYiFfOotoQbIVCpFoYH0bTCjbWEF0DpKRLt84JylKApaxN-rhMJzfZ_ecqsbmNwIUzCGLf-ydlFX8xgc6hy6my__tbrSuLA9bcwO1uas0pDoOjg/s1600/Image(3).jpg" height="640" width="532" /></a></div>
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<b>Overall grade:</b> B. The self-serve frozen yogurt allows guests to customize their yogurt sundae exactly to their liking. This increases customer satisfaction due to their nearly complete control over their frozen yogurt masterpiece. Nutritional and dietary information is clearly displayed in each store, although this knowledge is lacking from the FroZenYo <a href="http://www.frozenyo.com/">Web site</a>. Filled with synthetic flavorings and chemicals, the frozen yogurt is a far cry from a healthy dessert, but would do when in a pinch. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480074736603327040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682101892772460809.post-51906781315410629392013-12-17T22:30:00.000-05:002014-01-13T15:45:23.658-05:00Silly Cow Farms Hot Chocolate: Chocolate Chocolate The cold, arctic air has returned to Washington, D.C. Within the past week, work and school delays have been common. Wool hats, chunky scarves and heavy, waterproof boots have been pulled from hibernation and now serve their primary purpose: warmth retention. When the weather turns as is, despite my best efforts to stay warm and snug, I find myself drinking more hot liquids than one would find in a hot spring.<br />
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After sweaty gym workout which resulted in a very frosty walk home, I needed a warm drink to defrost and remind myself that I am a warm-blooded human. A steaming hot chocolate did the trick. Not only was the drink toasty, the new mix from <a href="http://www.burnhamandmills.com/categories/Silly-Cow-Farms-Hot-Chocolate-Drinks/">Silly Cow Farms Hot Chocolate</a> was a home run. <a href="http://www.burnhamandmills.com/">Silly Cow Farms</a> sells hot chocolate in an array of flavors to include Marshmallow Swirl, Peppermint Twist and Chocolate Chocolate. Not all of the flavors are soy-free, however the ingredients are clearly labeled. Now that I have thawed out, let's see how Silly Cow Farms Hot Chocolate performed in the <i>Sans Soy</i> test.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Y1d26OhuZGyUvAfxeje2dyY5mq9vR-6Zf-OrpOYSPsjGP7W5fc1HyZi_nlMpcq7NPdvPMAMsMa05LlDrdoEw7yH0z-SFfreyK2cqvOz6Ouawq72w5X9-R3s6aWDyXs0F1UvskBvC2lk/s1600/Image(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Silly Cow Farms Hot Chocolate" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Y1d26OhuZGyUvAfxeje2dyY5mq9vR-6Zf-OrpOYSPsjGP7W5fc1HyZi_nlMpcq7NPdvPMAMsMa05LlDrdoEw7yH0z-SFfreyK2cqvOz6Ouawq72w5X9-R3s6aWDyXs0F1UvskBvC2lk/s1600/Image(1).jpg" height="640" title="Silly Cow Farms Hot Chocolate" width="531" /></a></div>
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<b>Product:</b> Silly Cow Farms Hot Chocolate: Chocolate Chocolate <br />
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<b>Quality:</b> The cocoa is finely ground to create a tawny mound of powder. Tiny granules fragments of granulated sugar are mixed in with the cocoa. After stirring a spoonful or two into a mug with warmed milk, the cocoa mix quickly dissolves, leaving only the faintest trace of chocolate at the bottom of the cup when all consumed.<br />
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<b>Taste:</b> The flavor of this hot chocolate mix has a deep and rich piquancy with a slight hint of vanilla. Along with coffee undertones, there is a meager whiff of bitterness from the cocoa. Although this may sound unpleasant, it helps to complement the sweet taste. <br />
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<b>Price: </b>One bottle of the hot chocolate may be purchased <a href="http://www.burnhamandmills.com/categories/Silly-Cow-Farms-Hot-Chocolate-Drinks/">here</a> for six dollars. I bought mine from Whole Foods for around the same cost. <br />
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<b>Overall grade: </b>A+.<b> </b>Congrats, Silly Cow Farms, on being the first brand examined by Stephanie at <i>Sans Soy</i> to receive a top note! This hot chocolate mix was high quality, outstanding in taste and reasonably priced for the amount received. Extra points given for an array of soy-free flavors from which to choose, and the adorable and eco-friendly packaging that is a short glass milk jar helps to reduce the amount of harmful chemicals transferred to food.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480074736603327040noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682101892772460809.post-81170406158181337422013-12-11T17:03:00.001-05:002013-12-31T15:53:41.813-05:00Evolution Harvest Pepita, Almond, Raisin & Cranberry snack barHunger. It can come fast and furious, at busy times when you are engrossed in work. With few minutes to eat a full meal, finding a quick yet healthy snack can be an obstacle to clean eating. Last week, I was in this predicament. During a short run to my local <a class="g-profile" href="http://plus.google.com/117575809843355974839" target="_blank">+Starbucks Coffee</a> store, I selected an <a href="http://news.starbucks.com/uploads/documents/Evolution_Harvest_Fact_Sheet.pdf">Evolution Harvest</a> snack bar to accompany my foamy latte.<br />
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Unlike a traditional granola bar, this snack was chock-full of nuts and seeds: almond and pumpkin were the bulk of it. Raisins and cranberries, along with agave syrup and sea salt also made an appearance. My hunger was satiated with the grub, but how did the Evolution Harvest snack bar fare in the <i>Sans Soy</i> test?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSuDm9uipMHL8LXrfxW6dBRpmql7hP9MSlQhI3LAvzwm1RNVfechBi3piwdswb_oBSXV5_GyOODcKFqp5vS51t_MVg7XPf96905kOfqtdUB4c-u26hcFFgjKSzE7emvYahXYMOC6ZmSwM/s1600/Image+(5).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSuDm9uipMHL8LXrfxW6dBRpmql7hP9MSlQhI3LAvzwm1RNVfechBi3piwdswb_oBSXV5_GyOODcKFqp5vS51t_MVg7XPf96905kOfqtdUB4c-u26hcFFgjKSzE7emvYahXYMOC6ZmSwM/s640/Image+(5).jpg" width="531" /></a></div>
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<b>Product:</b> Evolution Harvest Pepita, Almond, Raisin & Cranberry with Agave Syrup & Sea Salt Snack Bar <br />
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<b>Quality: </b>Seeds, nuts and dried fruit are the primary characters in this snack bar. In fact, you may feel like the bird when first looking at the bar due to the large amount of visible seeds. The pepitas and almonds were not mealy, but a combination of agave syrup, brown rice syrup and pineapple juice concentrate make the snack very sticky. <br />
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<b>Taste: </b>This snack bar was the Goldilocks of taste: not too sweet, not too tangy and not too bitter. When eating, it would be useful to have a decent set of pearly whites as it is sticky and the plethora of seeds requires extra chewing. Perhaps, this would not be convenient to eat for those sporting braces on their chompers. There is, however, a strong salt taste underneath the sugariness. For me, I found it be overwhelming and I would not have missed it.<br />
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<b>Price: </b>One bar set me back $1.95.<br />
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<b>Overall grade: </b>B.<b> </b>As someone who likes a variety of nuts, seeds and other grains to fulfill nutritional needs, I greatly appreciated the deluge present in the Evolution Harvest snack bar. The sea salt was not my cup of tea, but I enjoyed the combination of dried fruits and sweet syrups as an energy source for a hectic afternoon. The bar is on the small side, boasting an average width of one inch and length of 3.5 inches, judging by the size.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480074736603327040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682101892772460809.post-70208529502442050222013-12-04T22:44:00.002-05:002013-12-11T22:31:30.407-05:00La Tortilla Factory Hand Made Style Tortillas<br />
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Hola mes amigos! I love Mexican food,
homemade or from a restaurant. A favorite staple I always have on
hand is tortillas. Like a magician’s trick to change shape and form,
tortillas adapt to an array of recipes. They are excellent scaffolding for a
sandwich wrap, sliced and spiced to make easy chips, or heated with cheese to
create a quesadilla. Who would imagine the quest to find soy free tortillas to be
one of monotonous effort?</div>
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A brand I have so far found to sell soy free
tortillas is <a href="http://www.latortillafactory.com/default.aspx" target="_blank">La
Tortilla Factory</a>. These, mes amigos, are some of the <span style="background-color: white;">most flavorful</span> tortillas
available. Loaded with 15 grams of protein and 90 calories each, they
are an excellent addition to any meal, or even as a snack. The <a href="http://www.latortillafactory.com/products-8.aspx" target="_blank">Hand Made Style Corn</a>
tortillas come in several flavors including yellow corn, white corn, and chipotle. I tasted the white corn variety. Let's see how this tortilla brand performs in the <i>Sans Soy</i> test.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicRDEKkjT_2Y75zv5Ito4nn6h6zL3ZXZnambneQMzr84EMma6X5IJqK-69bGPbzX8_jMB3i1EYgioEyH5ho8Br9u6ChndAF3Pu8hLhMhcZ6Xk5ND-63h6twVJ005LqafFqqaR9dt46QgA/s1600/Image+(4).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicRDEKkjT_2Y75zv5Ito4nn6h6zL3ZXZnambneQMzr84EMma6X5IJqK-69bGPbzX8_jMB3i1EYgioEyH5ho8Br9u6ChndAF3Pu8hLhMhcZ6Xk5ND-63h6twVJ005LqafFqqaR9dt46QgA/s640/Image+(4).jpg" width="532" /></a></div>
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<b>Product:</b> La Tortilla Factory Hand Made Style Tortillas, White Corn</div>
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<b>Quality:</b> The tortillas are fresh, thick and sturdy, the perfect home for juicy fillings such as beef and chicken. The combination of corn and wheat flour creates a meaty consistency and happy medium between the two. Each tortilla is not too large, only about five inches in diameter, and griddle spots add a sense of freshness, especially when the tortillas are consumed warm. Once heated, a corn aroma fills the air, further representing the freshness of ingredients.</div>
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<b>Taste:</b> A strong corn flavor is present, however it does not overwhelm as a result of the wheat flour also used to make the tortillas. The corn aroma intensifies when heated, and complements the taste of salsa, beans, or cheese, and probably whatever else you desire. Saltiness and blandness, both components oftentimes found in store bought tortillas, are lacking in the <a class="g-profile" href="https://plus.google.com/105122395421983881611" target="_blank">+LaTortillaFactory</a> tortillas. </div>
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<b>Price:</b> A pack of two 8-tortilla bags at the La Tortilla Factory <a href="http://latortillafactory.elsstore.com/view/category/8451-hand-made-style/">online store</a> costs $5.78. </div>
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<b>Overall grade:</b> A. The tortillas are top notch, snuggling ingredients and enhancing meals as a result of the savory taste and texture. I will be purchasing tortillas again from La Tortilla Factory, and would like to try out the other La Tortilla Factory products, too. The <a href="http://latortillafactory.elsstore.com/view/category/24691-flatbreads/">flat breads</a> and <a href="http://latortillafactory.elsstore.com/view/category/8461-100-calorie/">100 calorie tortillas</a> look enticing. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480074736603327040noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682101892772460809.post-83455998405965034122013-12-02T22:05:00.001-05:002013-12-11T22:33:00.463-05:00Restaurant Review: Panera BreadWe have all been there. Appointments are filled to the brim, and you are searching for a place to grab a quick and healthy lunch while finalizing an e-mail to send. Thankfully, <a href="https://www.panerabread.com/en-us/home.html">Panera Bread</a> delivers in such situations. Fresh bread, a wide array of salads, sandwiches, and soups from which to choose, in addition to edible pastries, caffeine concoctions, and free wi-fi. <br />
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Although, oftentimes, the casual diner is filled with groups of soccer mothers, <a class="g-profile" href="http://plus.google.com/107442386374569587346" target="_blank">+Panera Bread</a> offers tasty food that satisfies hunger pains, wanes fatigue and can serve as a productive off-site office when need be. It may come as shock that not all of the food and beverages available at Panera are soy free. However, the website for Panera may be easily navigated to find full lists of ingredients.<br />
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To access the nutrition and dietary information, select the "Menu Items" tab at the top of this <a href="https://www.panerabread.com/en-us/home.html">Web page</a>, and choose your category that you would like to learn more. Scroll to the middle of the page and select "Get the Facts." This will allow you to see the ingredients, or, you can <a href="http://paneranutrition.com/">click here</a> for easy redirection to the Panera Bread nutrition Web page.<br />
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Some popular menu items including soy:<br />
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<li>Cinnamon Crunch Bagel</li>
<li>Rustic Penne Bolognese </li>
<li>Broccoli Cheddar Soup</li>
<li>White Balsamic Fuji Apple Salad Dressing</li>
<li>Caramel Latte</li>
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<b>Overall grade:</b> B+. Panera joins the top ranks of Chipotle as a fast food restaurant that discloses nutritional information to its customers. Menu selections not containing, but are processed in close proximity to soy are clearly labeled. However, it is important to double check ingredients for small amounts of unlabeled soy, such as miniscule amounts of soybean oil. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480074736603327040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682101892772460809.post-46669323830998865862013-11-30T21:35:00.001-05:002013-12-02T20:42:15.418-05:00Love Sans Soy on BlogLovinGood news! <i>Sans Soy</i> is now hooked up to <a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/">Bloglovin.</a> Please follow <i>Sans Soy</i> to stay up to date on the latest reviewed soy free products. You may also subscribe by clicking the Bloglovin' icon on the right column.<br />
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<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/11334683/?claim=mnp676x9ygr">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480074736603327040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682101892772460809.post-35555538487188747892013-11-29T22:15:00.001-05:002013-11-30T12:27:06.753-05:00Peanut Butter & Co. White Chocolate WonderfulWhen I grocery shop I try to be organized. I attempt to plan ahead and make lists. But, when I enter the doors of my local grocery store, I become a marketer's dream as catchy advertisements and labels distract my well-organized intentions from reaching their final destination. Hence, I rarely come home with all of the items I meant to buy and a few newbies have appeared in my shopping cart. That is how I ended up discovering a new peanut butter brand: <a href="http://ilovepeanutbutter.com/" target="_blank">Peanut Butter & Co.</a> <br />
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Based out of New York City, <a href="http://ilovepeanutbutter.com/" target="_blank">Peanut Butter & Co.</a> has a slew of different peanut butter flavor from which to choose, all made without soy! Yipee! Less than ten total, natural ingredients compose the nut butter, one of which is an emulsifier that is derived from sunflowers. The particular flavor I picked up is a combination of white chocolate and peanut butter. Sounds interesting and decadent, right? Let's see how <a class="g-profile" href="http://plus.google.com/103274624152744663999" target="_blank">+Peanut Butter & Co.</a> White Chocolate Wonderful peanut butter performed in the <i>Sans Soy </i>test.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijUu0cX5iwaVCaXoZeGXuPKNsmYc61de278Nh-5zBRuZOlM2xywDZbInm2KBkWkZqL42TGZ-UdtYJP9X2I9ou2PCl1STWUbI6UlFuXYMBSeQLFGV8D2dePLJJiI7HDwwkJMk685qbvafE/s1600/Image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijUu0cX5iwaVCaXoZeGXuPKNsmYc61de278Nh-5zBRuZOlM2xywDZbInm2KBkWkZqL42TGZ-UdtYJP9X2I9ou2PCl1STWUbI6UlFuXYMBSeQLFGV8D2dePLJJiI7HDwwkJMk685qbvafE/s320/Image.jpg" width="267" /></a></div>
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<b>Product:</b> <a href="http://ilovepeanutbutter.com/index.php/peanut-butter-1/whitechocolatewonderful.html" target="_blank">Peanut Butter & Co. White Chocolate Wonderful</a><br />
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<b>Quality:</b> My first impression is how smooth is the peanut butter. The consistency resembles common peanut butter brands like Jif and Skippy. Nevertheless, the spread is thicker than the latter peanut butters, and would require some light elbow grease and attention to spread evenly on a piece of bread such as white Wonder slices. <br />
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<b>Taste: </b>A strong peanut butter taste with a decadent underlying flavor from the white chocolate is present. The white chocolate taste is not overpowering, but exerts enough oomph to notify the eater that it is sweet, buttery and means business. I appreciate the fact that it is not too sweet, and would be delicious smeared on a banana or an apple slice.<br />
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<b>Price: </b>At <a href="http://ilovepeanutbutter.com/index.php/peanut-butter-1/whitechocolatewonderful.html" target="_blank">six dollars a jar</a>, this is on the pricey side of peanut butters.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcxslmrJeKeVBOX3ffPL5UL0JiNfRi6D8m7FldX73a_RUhK6yye6BrpcpM5E-K_autYgWX0Cv1KjukOh1ZNC5hQaV7L3LGwQNO8JQ92jAUqnKdAT1McJRy7gJg9paxD7D4Pj5vwpioIQY/s1600/Image(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcxslmrJeKeVBOX3ffPL5UL0JiNfRi6D8m7FldX73a_RUhK6yye6BrpcpM5E-K_autYgWX0Cv1KjukOh1ZNC5hQaV7L3LGwQNO8JQ92jAUqnKdAT1McJRy7gJg9paxD7D4Pj5vwpioIQY/s320/Image(1).jpg" width="267" /></a></div>
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<b>Overall grade: </b>B. The peanut butter was very smooth, but it was thick.<b> </b>I liked, but not loved, the white chocolate flavor, however, this is personal preference. I would like to taste other flavors; The Bee's Knees, Mighty Maple and Cinnamon Raisin Swirl look tempting. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480074736603327040noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3682101892772460809.post-80405474716046875792013-11-25T22:27:00.000-05:002013-11-26T22:02:53.214-05:00Whole Foods 365 Hot Cocoa <div class="MsoNormal">
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The holiday season is quickly approaching in conjunction with cold Arctic air in the Washington, D.C., area. Crisp and frigid weather is indicative of the arrival of heavy, wool coats, fluffy blankets and warm drinks to stay toasty and snug. What better way to relax on a grey weekend afternoon than with a cup of piping hot cocoa? Other major brands of hot chocolate contain synthetic, ‘natural’ flavors, hydrogenated oils, artificial sweeteners, and oftentimes, soy. However, the store brand from <a href="http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/" target="_blank">Whole Foods</a>, 365, contains organic ingredients easily pronounced by those who have yet to obtain a Ph.D. degree in agrochemistry. Will this affect its performance in the <i>Sans Soy</i> test?</div>
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<b>Product:</b> Whole Foods 365 Hot Cocoa<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTE21ie3M4YGLCDU6QWcSJjeujkFFhlNdREDOMha7qLuNdXDr-iNVHTXcsdxRWfvIIljCy2caQJXuAb5wxDvUIOU8BkaYbwQ-q4vybEqVfLUt2FbRK8HRpNeUI9k0YIdvrZESQb91KaRo/s1600/Image+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Whole Foods Organic Hot Cocoa" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTE21ie3M4YGLCDU6QWcSJjeujkFFhlNdREDOMha7qLuNdXDr-iNVHTXcsdxRWfvIIljCy2caQJXuAb5wxDvUIOU8BkaYbwQ-q4vybEqVfLUt2FbRK8HRpNeUI9k0YIdvrZESQb91KaRo/s320/Image+(2).jpg" title="Whole Foods Organic Hot Cocoa" width="267" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTnRjHvSyg0vkdH4JZg9WyPurre4ii5fvgqcBV49zJuRkVggoDpdmSSiFuPn0VR4TEEZ3_XL3zhsNUCnnepDT3CaNoxtNBvichXU6AChtw38A3ZqEVhnyLxztnNbL8sQB_IJMMAYuEwOg/s1600/Image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Whole Foods Organic Hot Cocoa" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTnRjHvSyg0vkdH4JZg9WyPurre4ii5fvgqcBV49zJuRkVggoDpdmSSiFuPn0VR4TEEZ3_XL3zhsNUCnnepDT3CaNoxtNBvichXU6AChtw38A3ZqEVhnyLxztnNbL8sQB_IJMMAYuEwOg/s320/Image.jpg" title="Whole Foods Organic Hot Cocoa" width="267" /></a></div>
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<b>Quality: </b>Upon opening a packet of this hot cocoa mix, I first noticed a pale powder with a smell more natural than a traditional hot chocolate mix loaded with fake flavorings and sugars. In fact, closer inspection of the contents revealed small, square sugar crystals. No synthetic sweeteners in my hot cocoa! The mix dissolves well in a pan of warm liquid, leaving little chocolate residue behind. <br />
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<b>Taste: </b>In one word, I describe this hot cocoa mix to be comforting. It is thick and luscious and sweet enough to satisfy a sweet tooth without causing a toothache. Although rich on its own from nonfat dried milk in the mix, I like to be extra naughty by combining the hot chocolate mix with warmed milk. The result tastes like liquid chocolate velvet. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Price: </b>Currently, a box of 10 organic hot chocolate packets is on sale for $3.99 at my local Whole Foods market. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Overall grade: </b>A. The superb quality and deep chocolate flavor are quite impressive for a dry ingredient hot cocoa mix. Real sugar cubes, plus all organic ingredients allow a cold weather beverage to be enjoyed without the worries of food chemicals. Brownie points for a reasonable price and all organic ingredients.<br />
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P.S. Check out Whole Foods' awesome hot chocolate <a href="http://www.wholefoodsmarket.com/blog/hot-cocoa-smackdown-recipes" target="_blank">smackdown</a> comparison. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01480074736603327040noreply@blogger.com0