Welcome to your first ReFresh newsletter of the season in 2025! Winter is all about cozy cooking to help you keep warm. So while the cold wind blows outside, cozy up to one of the delicious meals using our fresh produce.
In this newsletter, you will find:
– Information about posole (fried corn or hominy) and its health benefits in “Featured Bag Item” section..
– Methods for Spring gardening in the “Gardening” section.
– A few simple recipes that you can make with the fresh ingredients in your ReFresh bag!
– Information for a Nature Guided Tour, Emergency Assistance, and Free Wifi resource in the “Community Resource” section.
We hope you enjoy this newsletter and thank you for your participation as we work together to build a healthy local food system.
Text your questions, photos, and comments to: (505) 226-3707.
Featured Bag Item
What is posole (dried corn or hominy) and what are its health benefits?
The corn is processed by nixtamalization (an ancient Native American and Central American tradition of processing corn using an alkaline solution). One current method is soaking the corn in lye or mineral lime (calcium) which puffs the kernels and sheds the skins. The kernels become softer, and increase protein, niacin (vitamin B3), calcium, iron, copper and zinc’s availability. The process generates resistant starch which has prebiotic effects.
Dried posole (like dried beans) needs to be rehydrated so the kernels should be soaked for about 8 hours and drained, add new water and bring to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer for about 20-120 minutes depending on the size of the kernels. The kernels should be chewy and tender, not chalky.
Health Benefits of Posole:
low calories, sugar and fat
naturally gluten-free
high in vitamin b-controls cholesterol, may reduce blood pressure, boosts brain function, improves skin health
High in fiber which contributes to heart, digestive, blood sugar, gut and mental health
Posole can be used as a corn or bean substitute in many recipes or as a standalone side dish.
This Posole Au Gratin is creamy comfort in a dish. This silky texture and rich, cheesy flavor provides a sense of solace and contentment. It is high in calcium and fiber.
Gardening Section
Recipes We Love!
Daikon Radish Salad
Daikon radishes are milder than easter Egg radishes and black radishes with a hint of sharpness and bitterness. They look similar to carrots and can be eaten raw, baked, broiled, roasted or used in soups and stews. https://www.platingsandpairings.com/daikon-radish-salad/
Spicy Roasted Daikon Radish Fries
Roasting creates a wonderful caramelized “crust” for this fries recipe. When you eat them, think of them more as spicy roasted carrots, instead of potatoes. Daikon Radishes are high in vitamin C, folate (Vitamin B9), calcium, magnesium and potassium.
Food Pantry Hours: Monday, Wednesday and Friday 10 am. to noon
Tuesday and Thursday 1 pm. to 3 pm.
Phone number: 505-848-1345
Libraries & Free WiFi Free Access to Learning & Information
There are 18 library branches across Albuquerque that offer many learning services and free wireless internet indoors and outdoor hot spots. Contact libraries for more details.
