Three Sisters Kitchen ReFresh Newsletter
Welcome to your third ReFresh newsletter of the season!
As the days grow longer and the first hints of spring start to bloom, there’s a fresh energy in the air. Whether you’re shaking off the winter blues or looking forward to sunnier days, we’re excited to share amazing recipes, information on events, etc. to help you step into the new season!
In this newsletter, you will find:
– Learn more about sprouts and their health benefits in “Featured Bag Item” section..
– “Food Is Function” section by Pamela Otero, Nutritional Therapy Practitioner.
– Learn how to start pepper and tomato seedlings in the “Gardening” section.
– A few simple recipes that you can make with the fresh ingredients in your ReFresh bag!
– Check out the information for the Goodwill workshops, Powerful Tools for Caregivers, and Inclusive Art Studio 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 are Sprouts and what are its health benefits?
Sprouts are tiny but filled with nutrients! They come from seeds that have just started to grow. There are a variety of sprouts like sunflower, alfalfa, pea, etc. Each type has a unique taste and texture, making them a fun addition to meals!
Fun Fact:
Sprouts are easier for your body to digest because they have fewer things that get in the way of absorbing nutrients. This helps your body get more of the good stuff they contain!
Sprouts are rich in:
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Vitamin A helps keep your eyes healthy and strengthens the immune system.
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Vitamin K supports bone health.
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It is a good source of protein and fiber that keeps you full and energized.
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Magnesium helps your muscles work properly and also keeps your bones strong.
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Phosphorus in sprouts also helps your body grow and repair cells, keeping you strong and healthy.
Cleaning Tips:
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Rinse well-placed sprouts in a bowl of cold water and swish them around to remove dirt.
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Use vinegar (optional)- one part vinegar to three parts water for a few minutes to reduce bacteria. Rinse well after.
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Drain & repeat- pour out the water and rinse again under running water.
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Pat dry- use a paper towel to remove excess moisture
Storage Tip: Keep sprouts refrigerated in a breathable, paper towel-lined container with the lid open. This will help absorb extra moisture while allowing air circulation. Use within a week for best taste.
Cooking Tips: Stir into soups, stir-fry with other veggies, or in scrambled eggs.
Whip up a quick, delicious dish: bean sprout stir fry! It comes together in minutes with fresh sprouts, garlic, and a simple, savory sauce.
Check out the recipe below, and try it at home!
Recipe link: https://omnivorescookbook.com/bean-sprout-stir-fry/
Have more questions about food and nutrition? Send your questions to [email protected]
Disclaimer: The information shared by Three Sisters Kitchen (TSK) is for general informational purposes only and is not meant to substitute for the advice provided by a doctor or other healthcare provider.
Photo 1 by Kuvings/ https://www.kuvings.com.au/the-humble-sprout/
Photo 2 by omnivorescookbook/ https://omnivorescookbook.com/bean-sprout-stir-fry/
Have more questions about food and nutrition? Send your questions to [email protected]
Disclaimer: The information shared by Three Sisters Kitchen (TSK) is for general informational purposes only, and is not meant to substitute for the advice provided by a doctor or other health care provider.
Photo by Alex Lepe; Design: The Kitchn https://www.thekitchn.com/types-of-mushrooms-23695539
Food is Function Section
Gardening Section
Recipes We Love!
Heirloom Tomato Sandwich
The heirloom tomato sandwich is filled with fresh and wholesome ingredients. Heirloom tomatoes are packed with vitamins A and C, which support immune health and antioxidants that may reduce inflammation.
For the full recipe, including step-by-step instructions, check out https://www.happyveggiekitchen.com/heirloom-tomato-sandwiches/
Radish Pico
Radish Pico is a vibrant, nutrient-packed topping that adds crunch and flavor to any dish. Radishes are rich in vitamin C and fiber, supporting immune health and digestion. At the same time, olive oil provides heart-healthy fats.
For the full recipe, including step-by-step instructions, check out https://patijinich.com/radish-pico/
Creamy Tomato and Spinach Pasta
In this comforting dish, the star is spinach. Packed with iron, vitamin K, and antioxidants, spinach supports bone health and provides essential fiber for digestion.
For the full recipe, including step-by-step instructions, see https://www.budgetbytes.com/creamy-tomato-spinach-pasta/
Recipes by 1) Happy Veggie Kitchen, 2)Pati Jinich, 3)BudgetByte$ (Beth Moncel)
Community Resources
GoodSkills Classes
Goodwill offers a variety of job training workshops designed to equip individuals with essential skills for career success. These workshops cover computer literacy, stress management, money management, etc. Helping individuals gain confidence, secure employment, and advance their careers. Register for one of the classes today! https://www.goodwillnm.org/goodskills-classes.html
Next Session: March 7, 2025
All Times: Your New Job: 01:00 PM to 02:15 PM
Thinking Critically: 02:30 PM to 03:30 PM
Where: 5000 San Mateo Blvd NE
Powerful Tools For Caregivers
The Family Caregiver Program is a six-week course designed to support caregivers in taking better care of themselves while caring for a loved one. Participants will learn valuable skills to manage emotions such as guilt and anger, improve confidence, and develop healthier coping strategies for the challenges of caregiving.
Starting Date: March 19, 2025
Time: 11:15 AM to 12:45 PM
Where: 3700 San Mateo Blvd NE, 87110
Price: FREE, requires registration to attend https://www.familycaregivernm.org/powerful-tools
Inclusive Arts Classes
Explore your creativity in a free art class for adults of all skill levels! This inclusive class is open to all abilities.
When: March 12, 2025. 03:00 PM to 05:00 PM
All Times: March 19, 2025, @ 03:00 PM to 05:00 PM
March 26, 202,5, @ 03:00 PM to 05:00 PM
Where: Heights Community Center
823 Buena Vista SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106
Price: FREE; just register for a free membership at play.cabq.gov
This week’s ReFresh bag:This week, your Refresh bag will include many of the following delicious fresh and staple items:
*NM grown / NM made We raise money to purchase these foods from local farmers and food producers as a concrete way to invest in our local food system and get delicious, fresh, local food to our ReFresh families. Keep an eye out for these local farms and food businesses when you do your food shopping. ReFresh bags will always include local food items.Thank You!Special thanks to all of the farmers and food producers working so hard to feed our communities; our partner organizations who helped to recruit ReFresh families: Kids’ Cook, Together for Brothers, Mandy’s Farm, New Mexico Asian Family Center, and YES Housing; to the staff, volunteers, donors, and ReFresh families who make the program work, and to our partners at MoGro Mobile Grocery, who pack these beautiful ReFresh bags each week for us, and who do so much important work connecting communities to healthy food throughout New Mexico. |