WELCOME TO DIABETIC ENJOYING FOOD

I have chosen this name for this blog because it truly states my story. I am a type II diabetic who most certainly enjoys food. When I was diagnosed with diabetes several years ago, my blood sugar level was over 400. With some oral medications, a lot of research and some trial and error, I have found that unlike my ancestors I truly can continue to enjoy food. I hope this blog will help you to also enjoy food and be healthy. Some recipes are my originals and some I have collected. Everyone reacts different to various foods. Check your blood sugar readings so you will know whether or not a recipe works for you! And feel free to take a recipe and adjust it to suit your needs.

Tuesday, April 16, 2019

BLUEBERRY TART WITH WALNUT CRUST*

*I got the original idea for this tart from a diabetic recipe website (I believe it was EatingWell).  I have made some changes that I think make it healthier.  Walnuts and blueberries are two of the healthiest foods and are especially good for diabetics.  

CRUST:
1/2 cup lightly toasted walnuts
1 cup Graham cracker crumbs
1 large egg white
1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1 tbsp coconut oil
pinch of salt, optional

Preheat oven to 325 degrees.

Coarsely chop the walnuts in a food processor; add Graham cracker crumbs and process until the mixture is fine crumbs.

In a medium bowl, whisk the egg white until frothy; add crumb mixture, butter, coconut oil, and salt - if using.  Toss the mixture to combine well.  Press onto the bottom and 1/2-inch up the sides of a 9-inch tart pan that has a removable bottom.

Set tart pan on a cookie sheet and bake at 325 degrees for 8 minutes or until dry and slightly darkened around edges.  Remove from oven and allow to cool on a wire rack.

FILLING:
1 brick (8-oz) Neufchatel (low-fat) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup low-fat sour cream
1/4 cup + 2 tbsp pure maple syrup**, divided
2 cups fresh blueberries

In a mixing bowl with mixer on low speed, beat the cream cheese, sour cream, and 1/4 cup of maple syrup until smooth.  Carefully spread the mixture into the cooled crust.  Place the blueberries over the filling and drizzle with the remaining two tablespoons of maple syrup (I omit this syrup).

Refrigerate at least an hour before serving.  Can be made 1 day ahead and refrigerated.

**If you have serious problems with your blood sugar, use sugar-free maple-flavored syrup and use sugar-free vanilla wafer crumbs instead of graham cracker crumbs.

As always, remember this is a dessert. Eat one piece and share the rest with family and friends.

Friday, April 12, 2019

JOY BAUER'S TURKEY MEATLOAF FOR DIABETICS

As anyone who reads my blogs regularly knows, I simply do not allow poultry into my mouth.  I know, it is a quirk I have no intention of trying to overcome!  However, I do realize that many of you live for chicken and turkey so I am posting this recipe from Joy Bauer for you.  But please remember to read the label on your ground turkey.  If the product contains skin it is not in your health's interest to purchase it.
  • oil spray
  • 1 pounds turkey, ground, lean (at least 90% lean)
  • 1 small zucchini, summer, grated
  • 1 cup(s) oatmeal, instant
  • 1/2 cup(s) mushrooms, shiitake, chopped
  • 1/4 cup(s) milk, fat-free
  • 1/4 cup(s) basil, fresh, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoon soy sauce, less sodium
  • 2 egg white(s)
  • 4 clove(s) garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon thyme, dried
  • 1/2 teaspoon oregano, dried
  • salt substitute
  • pepper, black ground
Preheat the oven to 350°F. Coat a 1-quart loaf pan with oil spray or line with aluminum foil.

In a large bowl, mix the turkey, zucchini, oatmeal, mushrooms, milk, basil, soy sauce, egg whites, garlic, thyme, and oregano and season with salt substitute and pepper.
Press the turkey mixture into the loaf pan and cover with aluminum foil. Bake 40 minutes. Remove foil and bake 5 to 10 minutes longer, until the top begins to brown and the center is no longer pink. Serve immediately.



Amount per ServingCalories: 239
Total Fat: 3 g
Saturated Fat: 0 g
Cholesterol: 45 mg
Sodium: 380 mg
Total Carbohydrate: 20 g
Dietary Fiber: 3 g
Protein: 33 g