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Healthy Home Recipes

Caribbean Rice with Jerk Seasoning Recipe

Are you looking for a vegan or vegetarian recipe, or maybe you just need something for Meatless Monday or a Friday during Lent? Maybe you just want a great unique side for something you grilled! If you are looking for any of these, this Caribbean Rice with Jerk Seasoning is for you!

This post may contain affiliate links. I earn commission on qualified purchases at no additional cost to you.

Caribbean Rice Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked white rice (~1 cup of dry rice)
  • 2 Tablespoons Coconut Oil
  • 4 Carrots, diced
  • 1 Red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
  • 13.6 ounce can unsweetened coconut milk
  • 5 cloves garlic
  • 15 ounce can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 15 ounce can corn, drained
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 3 Tablespoons Jerk Seasoning -more if desired
  • 1 lime sliced into wedges (optional)

How to make Caribbean Rice

Start by preparing the white rice according to package directions. Make sure you rinse the rice before cooking. This will remove the outer layer of starch, so the rice will be more fluffy and less sticky. The easiest way to rinse rice is with a fine mesh strainer or sieve.

Rinsing rice through a fine mesh strainer
Rinsing Rice

Next mix the dried coconut with 1/4 cup of the coconut milk and set aside to soften. Hint: Shake the can of coconut milk before opening.

Dried coconut with coconut milk
Dried coconut with coconut milk

Grate the garlic on a plate grater. Set aside.

Garlic grated on a plate grater.
Garlic grated on a plate grater.

Add the coconut oil to a large pot or wok, and begin to sauté the carrots.

Sauté carrots
Sauté carrots

When the carrots are slightly softened, add the peppers and onions. Continue to sauté, mixing often.

Peppers onions and carrots in a pan
Sauté peppers onions and carrots.

Once all the vegetables are softened, mix in the shredded coconut mixture and the grated garlic.

Adding coconut and garlic to sauteed vegetables.
Adding coconut and garlic.

Then add the kidney beans, corn and 1/2 cup of the coconut milk. Mix well.

Add kidney beans, corn, and 1/2 cup of coconut milk.
Add kidney beans, corn, and 1/2 cup of coconut milk.

Once the corn and beans are warm, add the rice and mix well.

Caribbean rice
Add the rice.

Add the cilantro, jerk seasoning and remaining coconut milk. Mix until well combined and heated throughout. Taste and add additional seasoning if desired.

Add cilantro and jerk seasoning to Caribbean rice.
Add cilantro and jerk seasoning, and remaining coconut milk.

Serve with a lime wedge if desired. This dish is a delicious vegetarian meal on its own or makes an excellent side dish to baked or grilled chicken or pork.

Caribbean Rice
Caribbean Rice with Jerk Seasoning

Printable recipe for Caribbean Rice with Jerk Seasoning

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Homemade Jamaican Jerk Seasoning Recipe

Save money by making your own seasoning blends. Homemade Jamaican Jerk seasoning is a must have. It’s so easy to make and a great one to have on hand for some fabulous Caribbean flavor. Traditionally it is used for seasoning chicken and pork, but there are plenty of other uses for it.

Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links. I earn commission at no additional cost to you.

What can you use Jamaican Jerk Seasoning for?

  • Seasoning chicken, pork or fish
  • Seasoning grilled or roasted vegetables
  • Add to rice or risotto for Caribbean flavor, try this Caribbean Rice
  • Great for squash or pumpkin soups or stews

Jamaican Jerk Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon granulated onion or onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon granulated garlic or garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon allspice
  • 2 teaspoons Himalayan pink sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground clove
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 2 teaspoons dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon dried parsley (optional)
Jamaican Jerk Seasoning Ingredients
Jamaican Jerk Seasoning Ingredients

How to make Homemade Jamaican Jerk Seasoning

Measure and mix all of the above ingredients in a bowl. Use a funnel to put the mixture into a 4 ounce spice jar. Label it and you are all set.

Is Jamaican Jerk Seasoning Gluten Free?

This is one of the best reasons to make your own seasoning blends. Some seasonings contain anticaking ingredients that contain gluten, especially seasoning blends. If you make your own blend you can make sure all of your ingredients are gluten free.

Is Jamaican Jerk Seasoning healthy?

Many of the ingredients in Jamaican Jerk seasoning have health benefits. Really the only unhealthy ingredients are salt and sugar. If you make your own, you could eliminate those ingredients, but keep in mind they are minimal when you only plan to use a couple tablespoons of the blend at a time.

Jamaican Jerk Seasoning Printable Recipe

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Pork Schnitzel With Dot’s Pretzel Crumble

Pork Schnitzel is a family favorite! The leftover pork Schnitzel can be re-heated to make delicious Schnitzel sandwiches aka: Schnitzelwiches. Dot’s Homestyle Pretzels used to make a delicious crumble. They stopped making it, but read on to find out how to make it. The pretzel coating adds so much flavor and it does not burn like other coatings, making it a great choice for Pork Schnitzel.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. I earn a commission on purchases at no additional cost to you.

What is Schnitzel?

Schnitzel is a German term for thin meat pounded until tender then breaded and fried. It is similar to Chicken-fried steak.

What kind of meat is used to make Schnitzel?

Traditionally veal is used, but other meats can be just as tasty. For this recipe I used pork chops, but you can also use beef or chicken.

Dot’s Pretzel Pork Schnitzel Recipe Ingredients:

How to prepare meat for Schnitzel?

First you must trim off all of the fat. This is important because after you bread the pork, you will not be able to see where the fat is.

Trimming pork chops
Trimming pork chops

Next you need to pound out the pork chops until they are approximately 1/4 inch thick. The best way to do this is to cover the meat with plastic wrap (to avoid splashing) and pound it with the flat side of a meat tenderizer mallet. It is best to do this on a plastic cutting board to protect your kitchen counter.

Tenderizing Pork.
Tenderizing Pork.

How to make Dot’s Pretzel Crumble

I was sad when Dot’s stopped selling their crumble. I contacted the company to find out where to buy it. They responded telling me they no longer make it. Fortunately, they told me I could make my own by crushing or food processing Dot’s Homestyle Pretzels . Here’s how:

Measure out 2 cups of Dot’s Homestyle Pretzel’s for every 4 pork chops you desire to coat. Place them in a food processor and process until evenly crumbled.

Original Dot's Homestyle pretzels in a food processor.
Original Dot’s Homestyle pretzels in a food processor.
Homemade Original Dot's Homestyle pretzel crumble in a food processor.
Homemade Original Dot’s Homestyle pretzel crumble in a food processor.

How to Bread Schnitzel

First coat the pork chops with flour.

coating pork in flour
Coating pork in flour

Then dip the breaded pork chops into the egg mixture (see recipe).

Dipping pork into egg mixture before adding pretzels
Dipping pork into egg mixture before adding pretzels

Then coat the pork chops in the homemade Dot’s Pretzel Crumble. Hint: Only put a little crumble at a time on the plate. That way you can save the leftover crumble. If it touches raw meat you will have to dispose of it.

Breading pork in Homemade Dot's Pretzel Crumble
Breading pork in Homemade Dot’s Pretzel Crumble
Pork coated in Homemade Dot's Pretzel Crumble
Pork coated in Homemade Dot’s Pretzel Crumble

How to Cook Pork Schnitzel

First add 1/4 inch of canola or vegetable oil to a frying pan and heat. Add your breaded pork 3-4 at a time to the pan. Cook 3 minutes then flip and cook another 3 minutes.

Schnitzel in frying pan
Browning the first side of schnitzel
schnitzel in frying pan
Browning Pork Schnitzel

The pork will not be fully cooked at this time. Place the fried pork chops on a jelly roll pan and bake at 350 degrees F for 15-20 min. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature has reached 160 degrees F.

Pork Schnitzel with Dot's Pretzel Crumble
Pork Schnitzel with Dot’s Pretzel Crumble, ready to bake.
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How to serve Pork Schnitzel

Serve with any side dish you wish. Some great suggestions include: roasted vegetables, rice, risotto, and/or potatoes. Alternatively, you can serve it on a bun as a sandwich with lettuce, tomato, mayo/mustard, onions, pickles or slaw. Get creative!

Pork Schnitzel served with roasted vegetables
Pork Schnitzel served with roasted vegetables
Pork Schnitzel Sandwich
Pork Schnitzel Sandwich served with kohlrabi slaw.

What can you do with Leftover Pork Schnitzel?

Air fry your leftover Schnitzel for best results. I air fry on high in my Ninja Foodi for 6 minutes. You can serve with your leftover sides or make a sandwich and serve with fries, chips or slaw!

Is Pork Schnitzel Healthy?

Absolutely not. This is why I suggest serving it with some roasted vegetables or a side of coleslaw! Try sauteed beet tops for another healthy side.

Recipe for Pork Schnitzel with Dot’s Pretzel Crumble

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Entertaining at home Recipes

14 Awesome Appetizers for your Next Party at Home

Parties are a great way to enjoy your home. Food is always expected at a party. Awesome appetizers can help to bring people together for great conversations, or can help accent any planned activity. It is not always easy to find great recipes for tried and true appetizers that will be loved by everyone. These 14 Awesome Appetizers will be a great addition to your next home party.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. I earn commission on sale at no extra cost to you.

Buffalo Chicken Dip Appetizer

buffalo chicken dip

This Buffalo Chicken dip is really easy to make, and it has relatively few easy to find ingredients. In other words, it is a simple appetizer. It is gluten free and keto friendly if served with celery instead of chips. The recipe includes 3 different cooking methods, slow cooker, baked and smoked. It is best for Big Game Day parties, New Year’s Celebrations, and Potlucks.

Jalapeno Poppers

These Jalapeno Poppers are quick and easy to make, find the recipe here. All of the ingredients are easy to find at your local grocery store. These jalapeno poppers can be prepared ahead of time, then baked right before serving. They are gluten free and keto friendly. They are best for small gatherings, Big Game Day parties, backyard parties, and family get togethers.

Chicken Strips aka Boneless Wings

This chicken strip recipe is more difficult than your average appetizer, but it is worth the effort. Your guests will be pleased. These chicken strips would best be kept warm in a chafing dish. Pick up some great dipping options: Ranch, BBQ sauce, and honey mustard and serve them in a cute tray. Chicken strips or boneless wings are perfect for small parties, game night, and football parties.

Easy Bean Dip

Rich results on Google's SERP when searching for 'Party Appetizer Recipe'
Easy Bean Dip

This bean dip recipe is so easy! The dip can take on the shape of any container, making it simple to match any party theme. Most of the ingredients are easy to find, and the recipe includes suggestions for alternative ingredients. It is gluten free. This recipe can be prepared ahead of time. There are suggestions for how to make it work for different holidays, such as serving in a football shaped bowl for a super bowl party. Overall this is the most versatile appetizer on the list, it is really great for any occasion.

Chips and Salsa or Pico de Gallo

chips and salsa
Photo by Tai’s Captures on Unsplash

If you are looking for an easy appetizer, this one is for you. Just open a bag of chips, dump it in a bowl, open a can of salsa and dump it in a smaller bowl. If you want to get fancy about it, get a cute chip and dip set.

If you want to be even more fancy, make your own Pico de Gallo. Both Pico de Gallo and some canned salsas are gluten free, and keto friendly. This appetizer is also vegan and vegetarian.

Homemade Pico de Gallo recipe

  • 5-6 Roma tomatoes chopped
  • 1 onion minced
  • 2 jalapenos minced
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1/4 cup mince fresh cilantro
  • salt to taste

Mix all ingredients and serve with tortilla chips!

Pulled Pork Street Tacos

pulled pork street tacos

These street tacos are made with 4-inch street taco shells. Certainly small enough to be an appetizer. This recipe is easy to make, especially if you have leftover pulled pork. If you do not have leftover pulled pork you can buy pulled pork at the grocery store, or make your own. To use this recipe as an appetizer, the pulled pork could be kept warm in a crockpot. The other toppings are all cold, and could be set up like a taco bar. Your guests will enjoy putting together their own taco. They are so tasty, you better plan on your guests eating more than one! Best for small gatherings, perfect for summer.

Polish Roses

polish roses

Polish roses, aka onion wraps are really easy to make. Just wrap a green onion and 1 tablespoon of cream cheese in your choice of lunchmeat. If you don’t like onions, use pickles instead. This is a very easy appetizer, gluten free and keto friendly. It can be made ahead of time and is perfect for any occasion.

Charcuterie Board

charcuterie board
Photo by Ana Maltez on Unsplash

This is a very easy appetizer. You will need to start with a charcuterie board and it would help if you had some ramekins for jams and dips. Once you have the basics, all you need are a variety of meats, soft and hard cheeses, fruits, veggies, olives, jams and dips. Get creative, don’t worry your guests will be pleased. This appetizer is best for wine tastings, book clubs, and bible studies.

Meatballs

These Thai Inspired meatballs are an amazing appetizer. Find the video recipe here. You can prepare the meatballs ahead of time, then refrigerate until you are ready to bake for your party. They would be best kept warm with a chafing dish rather than a crockpot. These meatballs would be best for a small get together. They are great for any season. Don’t expect any leftovers.

Guacamole

guacamole
Photo by Tessa Rampersad on Unsplash

Guacamole is very easy to make, find the recipe here. All of the ingredients are easy to find. It is the healthiest appetizer on this list. It is gluten free, vegetarian, vegan and keto friendly. Guacamole is versatile. It is traditionally served with tortilla chips, but it can also be used as a vegetable dip or spread on crackers. You can make it ahead of time, but it can brown a bit. To prevent browning, place a piece of plastic wrap right on top to protect the top from the air. Due to the versatility of this appetizer it would be a great addition to any gathering.

Cheese and Crackers

crackers
Photo by Raychan on Unsplash

This appetizer can be a simple as arranging a variety of crackers and cheese slices on a platter or you can make your own cheese spread.

Easy Homemade Cheese Spread recipe

  • 8 ounces cream cheese
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • dash of hot sauce, more if desired (optional)

Mix all ingredients with a hand mixer. Refrigerate at least 2 hours before serving with crackers.

Pierogi

Pierogi served with sauteed onions and sour cream
Pierogi served with sauteed onions and sour cream

This is a difficult recipe, but it is worth the effort. It is also an awesome vegetarian option. Your guests will be amazed! Pierogi can be prepared ahead, they can even be frozen. To serve as an appetizer you will need to fry them up, then keep them warm in a chafing dish. Be sure to fry up plenty of onions to serve with the pierogi. If you are willing to put in the effort pierogi are a great appetizer for any event especially Christmas Eve parties, where they are a polish tradition.

Chips and Dip

Another easy appetizer. The key to great chip dip is to make it yourself. The best chip dip is A Spice Above – Oven Roasted Garlic. Just mix the packet with 1 cup full fat sour cream and 1 cup of mayonnaise. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours prior to serving. It is gluten free and keto friendly. This appetizer will be gone no matter where you bring it. It is a simple appetizer perfect for any event.

Easy Deviled Eggs for all Occasions

Deviled eggs are an easy and inexpensive appetizer for all occasions. They are gluten free and keto friendly. Make them cute or sophisticated. Find many recipes here:

Cowboy Caviar

Cowboy Caviar
Cowboy Caviar

Another easy amazing vegetarian and vegan option. In addition, it is also another great gluten free option. Perfect for any event!

Cowboy Caviar Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 15 ounce can Pinto Beans, drained and rinsed
  • 15 ounce can Black Beans, drained and rinsed
  • 15 ounce can Black Eyed Peas, drained and rinsed
  • 15 ounce can Corn, drained and rinsed
  • 4 ounce Jar of Pimentos, with juice
  • 4 Celery sticks chopped fine
  • 1 Orange bell pepper chopped
  • 1 sweet onion chopped
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Directions:

Mix Olive oil, red wine vinegar, sugar and salt in a bowl to make the dressing. In another bowl mix all the other ingredients. Pour the dressing over the other ingredients. Chill for at least 1 hour. Serve with tortilla chips.

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Entertaining at home Recipes

Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip

Are you in need of a quick and easy appetizer for your next party? Look no further, this easy crock pot buffalo chicken dip is so simple and it always goes. You will receive plenty of compliments if you make this Buffalo dip for your next get together.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. I will earn commission on product sales at no additional cost to you.

Slow cooker Buffalo Dip Ingredients:

  • 3-4 Chicken breasts cooked and cubed
  • 16 ounces cream cheese
  • 5-6 celery stalks chopped
  • 12 ounce jar of blue cheese OR Ranch dressing
  • 12 ounce jar Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo sauce
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:

Turn your crockpot on high. Add the cream cheese first so it can start to melt while you add the other ingredients.

Wash and chop the celery, then add it to the crockpot.

Cube the cooked chicken and add it to the crockpot. Alternatively, you can substitute canned chicken if you prefer.

Add the dressing. Choose either blue cheese or ranch. I recommend a fresh dressing from the refrigerated section of the produce department. Marzetti, Lighthouse, or Marie’s.

Add the Franks Red Hot Buffalo sauce. Choose Frank’s mild, regular or hot depending on how spicy you want your buffalo chicken dip to be.

Lastly, add the shredded cheddar cheese to the slow cooker.

Mix all of the ingredients together inside the crockpot and cover. Continue to mix every 10-15 minutes until the cheese is starting to melt and the cream cheese is mixed into the sauce. ~60 min.

Once the cheese is starting to melt, turn the slow cooker heat to low and continue to warm, stirring every 20 minutes, until you are ready to serve. 1-2 hours.

Serve this easy buffalo chicken dip with tortilla chips.

Can you make Buffalo Chicken Dip Ahead of Time?

Yes, you can mix all of the ingredients in the crockpot insert the night before and put the insert in the fridge overnight. Pull it out 2-3 hours before your party and follow heating directions. Alternatively, you can mix all of the ingredients in a 9×13 Pyrex baking dish, and refrigerate over night, then follow the baking or smoking directions.

Can you bake Buffalo Chicken Dip?

Yes, you can bake Frank’s red hot sauce buffalo chicken dip instead of using a slow cooker. To bake this dip, just mix all of the ingredients on a 9×13 Pyrex baking dish and bake a 375 degrees F until cheese is melted and dip is hot. ~ 20 min.

Can you smoke Buffalo Chicken Dip?

You sure can! If you choose to smoke the dip I would recommend using smoked chicken. Mix all of the ingredients in a 9×13 Pyrex baking dish or a foil pan. Smoke at 180 degrees F for 30 min, then increase the temperature to 375 degrees F and continue to smoke until the cheese is melted and dip is hot. ~10 min.

Is Buffalo Chicken Dip Healthy?

No, this is not a healthy recipe. It is meant to be a party food to be shared by many people on a special occasion. Not an every day snack. If you would like to make it healthier, you can use Neufchatel cheese instead of the cream cheese for 1/3 less fat. You can also serve it with celery sticks instead of tortilla chips. These substitutions will not make it much healthier, so portion control is probably your best option.

Is Buffalo Chicken Dip Gluten free?

Chicken, cream cheese, celery, Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo sauce, and cheddar cheese are gluten free. Make sure you read the label on the salad dressing you choose because some may contain gluten. Also, it would be best to shred your own cheese, because some pre-shredded cheeses may contain gluten. If you season your chicken before you cook it, make sure all of the seasonings are gluten free. Make sure the chips you serve it with are gluten free.

Is Buffalo Chicken Dip Keto?

Chicken, cream cheese, celery, Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo sauce, and cheddar cheese are keto friendly. Marzetti Blue cheese dressing is Dirty Keto. You will have to serve it with something keto friendly, like celery sticks, instead of tortilla chips.

Easy Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 3-4 Chicken breasts cooked and cubed
  • 16 ounces cream cheese
  • 5-6 celery stalks chopped
  • 12 ounce jar of blue cheese OR Ranch dressing
  • 12 ounce jar Frank’s Red Hot Buffalo sauce
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Directions:

Turn your crock pot on high. Add the cream cheese first so it can start to melt while you add the other ingredients.

Wash and chop the celery, then add it to the crockpot. Cube the cooked chicken and add it to the crock pot.

Add the dressing, hot sauce and shredded cheese.

Mix all of the ingredients together inside the crock pot and cover. Continue to mix every 10-15 minutes until the cheese is starting to melt and the cream cheese is mixed into the sauce. ~60 min.

Once the cheese is starting to melt, turn the slow cooker heat to low and continue to warm, stirring every 20 minutes, until you are ready to serve. 1-2 hours. Serve with tortilla chips.

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More Great Appetizer Recipes:

Jalapeno Poppers

Fritos Bean Dip

Guacamole

Pork Street Tacos

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Healthy Home Save Money

How to save money on over the counter medications

I suppose it’s time to help my readers save on over the counter medications. As a pharmacist, I do have plenty of secrets to share with you.

Recently, I was checking out at the grocery store. The cashier told me she was sleepy because she accidently took her night time cough medicine instead of her day time cough medicine. I cringed because there should be no difference. Read on to find out why.

Common symptoms that can be treated at home

  • Pain/fever
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Nasal congestion
  • Allergies
  • Insomnia
  • Heartburn
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea

How to save money on Cold and Flu medications

Here I will share some secret tips that most consumers do not know about the over the counter cold and flu medications. Pharmacists are always a great reference to help you choose a medication for your symptoms. There are thousands of cold and flu products on the market sold under many brand names, although all of these products are just combinations of very few ingredients.

Disclaimer: Always read the safety information on all over the counter medications. Follow the manufacturer recommended dosing. Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using any over the counter medication if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or have any health conditions, allergies or are taking and medications.

1. Don’t buy oral phenylephrine or any oral product containing phenylephrine

Phenylephrine has been found to be ineffective at treating nasal congestion in oral form. It has no value, but is still on the market to give manufacturers time to reformulate their products. The reason it has been allowed to remain on the market is because it is still considered safe, but not effective. Even though it is not effective you will still have drug interactions and side effects associated with it’s use, but no benefit.

What should you use instead of phenylephrine to treat nasal congestion?

If you want an oral medication for nasal congestion your only option is pseudoephedrine, which you do not need a prescription for. You will have to ask a pharmacist for it. It can be found at most local pharmacies for as low as $2.49 for 24 tablets ~ 21 cents/dose, max of 4 doses/day = 84 cents/day.

Another great option for treating nasal congestion is Afrin nasal spray. Afrin can only be used for 3 days. It is dosed 1-2 sprays in each nostril every 12 hours for 3 days. After 3 days, you will need to use something else to treat your nasal congestion.

what to use instead of phenylephrine

2. Save on Cold and Flu medications by choosing single ingredient medications

Brand name manufacturers try to simplify your purchase by listing symptoms in the name of their product. You could get the same benefit from taking the individual ingredients for less cost, and you could take only the ingredients you need. Usually a cold starts with fever, body aches and sore throat, then nasal congestion, ending with a lingering cough. It would be better to purchase the individual ingredients and treat only the symptoms you currently have.

Lower cost options for “day time” non- sedating cold and flu medications

Instead of using a combination product like these:

Tylenol Cold & Flu Severe -Current cost is $7.67 for 24 caplets ~64 cents a dose, max of 5 doses per day = $3.20/day

Vicks DayQuil Cold and Flu – Current cost is $16.57 for 48 liquicaps ~ 69 cents/dose, max of 4 doses per day = $2.76/day

Treat only the symptoms you have with the single ingredients in these products:

Acetaminophen – This ingredient is effective for treating pain and fever. If you have body aches, sore throat, other pain or fever, then this ingredient will help. Current cost for 325mg tablets = $2.12 for 100 tablets ~ 4 cents/dose, max of 6 doses 3900mg/day = 24 cents/day (note-this is adult dosing)

Dextromethorphan – This ingredient is a cough suppressant. It is used in adults and children 12 years and older to suppress a cough. It is not always good to suppress a cough. If your cough is productive then an expectorant may be a better choice. Current cost for 15mg soft gels = $8.99 for 100 soft gels ~ 18 cents/dose, max of 4 doses/day = 72 cents/day (note-this is adult dosing)

Guaifenesin – This ingredient is only in the Tylenol Cold & Flu severe, not in Vicks DayQuil Cold and Flu. Guaifenesin is an expectorant that helps thin mucus in the bronchial passages to make it easier to cough up mucus. It is most effective if you drink plenty of water. If you drink plenty of water you will help to thin the mucus anyway. This medication is best used to treat a productive cough. It will not help a dry cough at all. It does not suppress a cough. Current cost for 400mg tablets = $8.79 for 200 caplets ~4 cents/dose, max dose of 6 doses/day = 24 cents/day (note-this is adult dosing)

Phenylephrine – Is found in both Vicks DayQuil and Tylenol Cold & Flu Severe. Phenylephrine has been found to be ineffective at treating nasal congestion. If you do have nasal congestion-use one of my phenylephrine alternative suggestions above.

Lower cost options for “night time” sedating cold and flu medications

Instead of using a combination product like these:

NyQuil Cold & Flu – Current cost $17.88 for 48 liquicaps ~ 75 cents/dose, max of 4 doses/day = $3.00/day (note-adult dosing)

Tylenol Cold + Flu + Cough Night liquid – Current cost $10.67 for 8 ounces ~ $1.33/dose, max of 5 doses/day = $6.65/day

Treat only the symptoms you have with the single ingredients in these products:

Acetaminophen – This ingredient is effective for treating pain and fever. If you have body aches, sore throat, other pain or fever, then this ingredient will help. Current cost for 325mg tablets = $2.12 for 100 tablets ~ 4 cents/dose, max of 6 doses 3900mg/day = 24 cents/day (note-this is adult dosing)

Dextromethorphan – This ingredient is a cough suppressant. It is used in adults and children 12 years and older to suppress a cough. It is not always good to suppress a cough. If your cough is productive then an expectorant may be a better choice. Current cost for 15mg soft gels = $8.99 for 100 soft gels ~ 18 cents/dose, max of 4 doses/day = 72 cents/day (note-this is adult dosing)

Doxylamine – This ingredient is an antihistamine. It is used mostly as a sleep aid because it is very sedating, but also has a drying effect that can help with congestion. If you are taking either of the above combination products to help you sleep, you could save a lot by using the single ingredient. Current cost for 96 – 25mg tablets = $7.17 ~4 cents for a half a tablet dose (12.5mg is the amount in a dose of the 2 combination products above). (Note-this is adult dosing.)

Phenylephrine – Is found in Tylenol Cold + Flu + Cough, but not NyQuil. phenylephrine has been found to be ineffective at treating nasal congestion. If you do have nasal congestion-see my phenylephrine alternative suggestions above.

3. Buy generic cold and flu medications

I am a pharmacist and I almost always buy generic medications. They work just as well as brand name medications for a fraction of the cost. There are a couple of exceptions. I prefer brand name for flavored medications. Liquid or chewable medications often taste better if you buy brand name. The other exception is nasal sprays. I have found brand name Afrin to sting less than the generic.

4. Non-drug options for helping with cold and flu symptoms

  • Stay hydrated, this will help with cough, congestion and fever.
  • Use a humidifier, this will help with cough and congestion.

How to save money on seasonal allergy medications

Disclaimer: These recommendations are for mild seasonal allergy symptoms, not severe life threatening allergy symptoms like shortness of breath, hives or severe swelling.

There are many over the counter medications to treat allergy symptoms. Read on for some tips on allergy treatment savings.

1. Avoid combination products

Same as my advice on cold and flu medications, there are plenty of allergy products on the market with more than one ingredient. Watch out for phenylephrine on any product promoted for allergy and sinus relief. Do not buy any product with phenylephrine listed as an ingredient.

2. Choose the right allergy product for your symptoms

Allergy symptoms and treatment options include:

  • Runny/Itchy nose – Oral or nasal antihistamine, nasal steroid
  • Sneezing – Oral or nasal antihistamine, nasal steroid
  • Itchy watery eyes – Oral antihistamine, antihistamine eye drop

Disclaimer: Always read the safety information on all over the counter medications. Follow the manufacturer recommended dosing. Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using any over the counter medication if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or have any health conditions, allergies or are taking and medications.

The first step is to try the lowest cost option of the non sedating oral antihistamine options: (take only one)

If you still have nasal symptoms, then the next step is to add one nasal steroid . Start with the lowest cost option: (these will take a week or two of daily use to show a benefit)

If you still have nasal symptoms then you can add a nasal antihistamine.

If you still have itchy watery eyes, add an antihistamine eye drop.

3. Buy generic allergy medications

I always choose generic medications for tablets and capsules. It’s okay to try generic flavored oral liquids and chew tabs, but sometimes I choose brands in those cases due to better flavor. Generic nasal sprays are worth a try, but sometimes I opt for brand name if the generic stings more.

4. Use your HSA account if possible to pay for allergy medications.

You may be able to use your HSA to pay for chronic medications for allergy symptoms, but you may need a prescription from your doctor even though these meds due not require a prescription. Just in case, ask your doctor for a prescription at your annual check-up. It will save you money if you can use tax free dollars in your HSA account to pay for OTC medications.

How to save money on OTC insomnia medications

Disclaimer: Always read the safety information on all over the counter medications. Follow the manufacturer recommended dosing. Ask a doctor or pharmacist before using any over the counter medication if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or have any health conditions, allergies or are taking and medications.

There are plenty of over the counter options to help with occasional insomnia. The marketing for this indication is very effective in persuading consumers to overspend on very inexpensive medications.

1. Avoid combination products for insomnia

I probably sound like a broken record by now, but there is nothing more frustrating than watching people get sucked into spending more money just to get an advertised brand name medication with extra ingredients they don’t need.

Example:

Advil PM – Current price ~ 52 cents per dose – or take the individual similar ingredients: diphenhydramine 25mg tablets ~4 cents/dose + ibuprofen (if you have pain or fever in addition to your insomnia) ~4 cents/dose.

2. Buy generic medications for insomnia.

Cost saving examples:

ZzzQuil 25mg tablets – Current price ~ 55 cents/dose or you could choose generic (same ingredient) diphenhydramine 25mg tablets ~4 cents/dose.

ZzzQuil Ultra 25mg tablets – Current price ~ 35 cents/dose or you could choose generic (same ingredient) Doxylamine 25mg tablets ~ 7 cents/dose.

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Entertaining at home

How to Play Spicy UNO

Are you getting bored with your current selection of family games? Here is a perfect way to spice up an old favorite! Spicy Uno is a fun family or party game using a regular deck of Uno cards. It would be best to have 2 decks of UNO cards, especially if you are playing with more than 3 people. You can still play spicy UNO with only one deck, but you will have to pause to shuffle at least once. You can’t even shuffle the cards when it is not your turn, because in Spicy UNO, it is always your turn! If you don’t enjoy shuffling you might want to invest in a card shuffler! Read on to find out more.

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How to set up Spicy UNO:

Thoroughly shuffle the UNO deck or both decks and deal each player 7 cards then place one card face up on the discard pile. The basic play is the same as the standard UNO game, follow color or number. You must say “UNO” when you have one card left, or you will be required to pick up 2 cards. Decide who will play first. The object of the game is to be the first player to get rid of all of your cards.

Rules for Spicy UNO:

0 – If you play a zero, you must trade hands with another player. This is not optional.

5 – If anyone plays a 5, all players must slap the table. Last player to slap the table must draw 2 cards. It pays to be loud and noticeable here!

7 – If someone plays a 7, all players must remain silent (except for laughing, because laughter is fun) until another 7 is played. If you go down to one card during silence you must hold up one finger to indicate UNO instead of saying “UNO”. To choose a color if you play a wild during silence you must point to your desired color. If during silence, rules must be clarified, you must raise your hand before speaking.

Draw 2 – If you play a draw 2, the next player must draw 2 (if they draw 2 their turn is over), unless they can also play a draw 2, then the next player has to draw 4, unless they can play a draw 2, then the next player must draw 6. This continues until someone has to draw the accumulated number of cards.

Draw 4 – Same rules as the draw 2.

If you cannot play a card, you must draw cards until you are able to play.

If a player has to draw because they cannot play, any player can offer them a playable card face down. The player who cannot play can choose to accept the offered card or decline and draw instead.

If you have a card that is the exact same as a card played (examples: someone plays a red 3 and you have a red 3, or someone plays a yellow skip and you have a yellow skip) you can play it at any time even if it is not your turn. You have to play the identical card before the next player plays their card. If you are able to play your identical card first then you will have effectively changed the turn to your turn and the player after you will go next. You can play 2 cards at the same time if you have 2 identical cards in your hand. If both cards are fives, everyone must slap the table twice.

Spicy UNO Strategy

If possible, don’t play a zero when your hand is the smallest.

Hold onto your draw 2 and draw 4 cards until they are the only playable cards in your hand. These cards will defend you incase someone else plays one.

Offer a playable zero to someone who cannot play because they will have to trade their hand. If the player after the player who has to draw has UNO, offer the player who has to draw a playable draw 2 or draw 4 card.

Always pay attention, even when it is not your turn so you do not miss a 5 or 7 card.

If you like Spicy Uno, You might like:

If you like the fast paced paced games, where its always your turn, try these:

If you like the house rules and craziness you might like Uno Roboto.

Other Fun Family games

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Healthy Home Recipes

Nutrient Packed Smoothie vs. Smoothie Bowls

Save a ton of money by making your own smoothies and smoothie bowls at home. Learn how to create your own recipes and which ingredients provide the best nutrients for your health.

A smoothie is a simply a beverage made by pureeing fruits and vegetables with other ingredients in a blender. A smoothie bowl is a thicker more nutrient packed smoothie, thick enough to eat with a spoon, and often topped with fruit, granola, nuts, and seeds. Lets review some common smoothie vs. smoothie bowl questions and how to pack them with nutrients.

Disclaimer: The statements made regarding these recipes have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these recipes have not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These recipes are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Smoothie vs. smoothie bowl

A smoothie is thin enough to drink through a smoothie straw. For a smoothie bowl you can use the same ingredients to make a smoothie, but it will be thick enough to eat with a spoon.

Basic smoothie vs. smoothie bowl ingredients:

Smoothie: 1 cup (8 ounces of fruits and veggies) to 1/2 cup to 1 cup of liquid. Less liquid will make a thicker smoothie, more liquid makes a thinner smoothie.

Smoothie bowl: 2 cups (16 ounces of fruits and veggies) to 1/4 cup liquid.

Optional additives can be mixed in in small quantities. For example, a tablespoon of honey or a scoop of protein powder.

Basic Smoothie recipe example:

1/2 cup frozen mixed berries

1 frozen banana (sliced before freezing) ~1/2 cup

1/2 cup vanilla yogurt

1/2 cup milk

Optional: 1 tablespoon elderberry syrup.

Puree in a blender

Serve in a cup with a straw.

Basic Smoothie bowl recipe example:

1.5 cups frozen mixed berries

1 frozen banana (sliced before freezing) ~1/2 cup

2 tablespoons yogurt

2 tablespoons milk

Optional: 1 teaspoon honey

Puree in a blender

Top with fresh blueberries, almond slices, and hemp hearts. Serve in a bowl with a spoon.

Smoothie vs. smoothie bowl infographic

Which blender is best for making smoothies?

I personally prefer the Ninja Professional Blender. It has a large capacity, it blends everything smoothly. It is also dishwasher safe for quick and easy clean up.

Another awesome option for delicious smoothies is the Vitamix Blender. The only drawback is the price. Although it is expensive, it has a few features that the Ninja does not have. It will heat soups, but that is not necessary for smoothies.

If you need a smaller blender for a college dorm or a small kitchen, a handheld immersion blender or a personal size blender are also great options.

Lastly, there is the Ninja Creami which is perfect for making smoothies and best for making smoothie bowls with the added benefit of making ice cream.

Ninja blender making a smoothie

Can you make a smoothie the night before?

The best way to make a smoothie the night before is to prepare all of the ingredients. Chop and freeze the fruit you wish to use. Measure out the liquid ingredients and place them in the refrigerator. Then you can quickly blend them together in the morning.

Can you store a smoothie in the refrigerator or freezer?

If you prepare a smoothie with ice or frozen ingredients then it will thin with refrigeration because the ice will melt and the frozen ingredients will thaw. The smoothie will be thinner, but still tasty. It will probably need to be stirred before consuming.

You can freeze a smoothie, but it will thicken like ice cream or sorbet. Frozen smoothie would require a spoon to consume. You can defrost it but depending on the ingredients, it may not remain smooth. It is possible to blend it again, but the consistency may not be the same.

Are smoothies and smoothie bowls healthy?

Smoothies and smoothie bowls can both be very healthy depending on the ingredients you choose. Read on to learn about healthy and unhealthy ingredients found in smoothies and smoothie bowls.

Which smoothie is anti-inflammatory?

Most smoothie ingredients are naturally anti-inflammatory, which makes smoothies and smoothie bowls a great option for an anti-inflammatory diet. Here are some ingredients to avoid and some to include in anti-inflammatory smoothies and smoothie bowls:

Smoothie ingredients to avoid because they can increase inflammation:

  • Processed foods
  • sugar
  • sweetened teas
  • sugary drinks
  • sweet cereal
  • canned fruit packed in heavy syrup
  • non-dairy creamers (unhealthy fat)

Best Anti-inflammatory smoothie ingredients:

  • Berries
  • Grapes
  • Citrus fruits: oranges/grapefruit
  • Pumpkin
  • Spinach/kale
  • Cauliflower
  • Quinoa
  • Soy
  • Nuts/seeds
  • hemp hearts/chia
  • Spices: ginger/turmeric/cinnamon

Which Smoothie is best for weight loss?

There are plenty of fad diets out there that will each have their own smoothie recipes. The key to consuming smoothies for weight loss is choosing the right ingredients. Fruits and vegetables are typically the main ingredients in most smoothie and smoothie bowl recipes. The reason why fruits and vegetables are good for weight loss is because they have low energy density. Meaning they have few calories in a large volume of food. This way you can fill up, and feel full while consuming fewer calories. There is some research to prove that consuming low-energy-dense foods will lead to weight loss without feeling hungry.

If you choose low-energy-dense ingredients for your smoothie, you can stay full longer on fewer calories and lose weight.

Best ingredients for a weight loss smoothie or smoothie bowl (low-energy-dense foods)

  • Fresh or frozen vegetables
  • Fresh or frozen fruits
  • Low-fat or fat-free dairy products with no sugar added
  • Whole grains
  • Water or ice

Worst ingredients for a weight loss smoothie or smoothie bowl (high-energy-dense foods)

  • Fruits canned in heavy syrup
  • Juice
  • Sweetened yogurt
  • Sugar
  • Full fat dairy products
  • Dried fruits
  • Refined grains: white rice or cereal made with white flour

Smoothie vs. smoothie bowl, which is good for diarrhea?

If you have diarrhea hydration is important. If you are recovering from a stomach bug and have been vomiting also, you should probably start with clear liquids. Once you are feeling better, then a smoothie would still be better than a smoothie bowl because smoothies have more liquid. In the past a BRAT (banana, rice, applesauce, toast) diet was often recommended as a bland diet to eat for the first day of solid food after a stomach bug. These four foods are still a great option, but many experts recommend adding in a few more foods for better nutrition. There are still some foods that should be avoided when you have diarrhea.

Ingredients to avoid adding to a smoothie when you have diarrhea:

  • Dairy (with the exception of yogurt or kefir-especially with antibiotic associated diarrhea)
  • Citrus fruits
  • pineapple
  • leafy green vegetables
  • raw vegetables
  • Spices
  • berries or seedy fruits
  • oils
  • caffeine

Best smoothie ingredients to add when you have diarrhea:

  • Banana
  • Cooked white rice (gritty)/baby rice cereal
  • Kefir or yogurt
  • Apple sauce or juice
  • Pedialyte
  • Coconut water
  • Peaches
  • Melons
  • Squash-e.g. pumpkin puree
  • Cream of wheat
  • Oatmeal

Smoothie vs. Smoothie bowl for constipation?

Hydration and fiber are both important for prevention and treatment of constipation. Smoothies will help more with hydration, but you can pack more fiber in a smoothie bowl. Both are good options for constipation. I unusually try to help my patients choose good foods to treat occasional constipation before resorting to medications.

Best Smoothie and smoothie bowl ingredients for constipation

  • Prunes or prune juice
  • All Bran
  • Plums with peel
  • Berries
  • Squash
  • Leafy Greens
  • Water/Ice
  • Flax seeds
  • Nuts
  • Kombucha
  • Apples with peel/apple juice
  • Kiwi

Which smoothie is best when you are sick with a cold or flu?

If you are sick with a cold or flu you need hydration, especially if you have a fever. Smoothies are a great way in increase hydration. Fruits, vegetables and other immune boosting foods are also beneficial when nursing a viral infection. A cold smoothie made with frozen fruits and/or ice can help to sooth a sore throat. Top your smoothie bowl with my immune boosting granola.

Best Immune boosting smoothie and smoothie bowl ingredients:

  • Citrus fruits
  • Berries
  • Elderberry Syrup
  • Matcha
  • Ginger/turmeric
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Leafy greens
  • Peppers
  • Sweet Potato
  • Pomegranate
  • Yogurt
  • Papaya
  • Kiwi
  • Acai
Immune boosting smoothie and smoothie bowl ingredients infographic.

How to make a hydrating smoothie.

Although both smoothies and smoothie bowls contain hydration, smoothies are more hydrating because they contain more liquid. There are some fruits and vegetables that have a higher water content and are better for improving hydration. Electrolytes are important for improving hydration lost due to sweating from exercise or illness. For more hydration tips, check out my post on hydration.

Most hydrating Smoothie ingredients:

  • Celery
  • Watermelon
  • Peaches
  • Bell Peppers
  • Cucumbers
  • Leafy Greens
  • Tomatoes
  • Cantalope
  • Strawberries
  • Yogurt
  • Cottage Cheese
  • Ice
  • Coconut Water
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Entertaining at home

Fun Games to Play

Are you getting bored with you family game selection? It is difficult to find fun family games to play with young children. As the children grow their interests change and so must the games. The goal is to find games that are fun for both kids and adults. The main goal for family games is to keep play simple to learn, but complex enough to entertain all ages. There are many fun games to play with all age groups. Here are some great suggestions for all age groups.

Best family games for preschool aged kids-Ages 3-5 years

This is a difficult age group to find fun games to play with. Candyland, Chutes and Ladders, or Hi Ho Cheery O are mind numbingly boring. I also can’t tolerate the simple card game war. After much research, I did end up finding a few fun games to play with preschool aged kids. My babysitters also gave some good suggestions.

Hullabaloo

Hullabaloo is actually a fun game to play with kids aged 3 and up. It was honestly my favorite for this age group. Families can hop, skip, crawl, jump and dance! The game comes with a bunch of different shaped pads with pictures on them, to place on the floor. The “announcer” will tell the players to “hop like a frog to a triangle”. Eventually the “announcer” will declare a winning pad, if anyone is on that pad they win and get to do a dance. It’s really fun!

Spot It Jr.

Spot it Jr is a fast paced card game with simple rules for kids 4 and up. It’s quick for their short attention spans. All you have to do is spot the picture that is the same on two cards. This is a great game for babysitters. Our best babysitter had it in her bag of fun that she always brought over.

Memory

Memory This game is pretty simple. You just place all of the cards face down. Then you take turns flipping 2 cards at a time, if they match you keep the match. If they don’t match, you flip them back over and try to remember what they were so you can make a match on your next turn. Kids are surprisingly good at this game.

Go Fish

Go Fish This is a very simple card game that can be played with a regular deck of cards, but it also comes in many different themes, sure to delight any preschooler.

The rules are simple: deal out 7 cards per player, then spread out the rest of the cards in the middle to make the fishing pond. The player to the left of the dealer starts by asking another player for all of their “kings” if the player succeeds in obtaining kings, they keep going until they ask for something another player can’t give them. That player will say “go fish” and the player draws a card from the “pond”. The object is to get 4 of a kind. Once a player has 4 of a kind they lay those cards face up in front of them. Once all of the cards have been laid down the winner is the player with the most cards in front of them.

Old Maid

Old Maid This game can be played with a regular deck of cards, but also comes in old maid decks with fun themes. If using a regular deck you just deal out all of the cards except one (usually a queen). Each player removes all of the pairs from their hand and places them down in front of them. Then the dealer offers their hand face down for the player to their left to choose from. If that player makes a match, they lay it down in front of them, then they offer their hand to the next player. The next player draws a card and play continues until all cards are matched except the old maid. The player left with that card is the old maid.

Best Family games for early elementary aged kids – Ages 6-8

There are a lot more really fun games to play as a family once your children are all over 6. Mostly because many fun games require reading to some extent. A few games from the preschool age are still appropriate for this age group.

Uno Roboto

Uno Roboto is a really fun spin on regular Uno. It comes with a robot that helps with game play. Each player records their name into the robot. Throughout play the robot calls players by name asking them to do things like discard 2 cards, or give all their yellow cards to another player. Sometimes the robot even instructs players to give each other different names.

SkipBo or Uno

Skip Bo or Uno These classic games have simple rules and are still fun even for adults. They are small and inexpensive. Easy to take on trips. Always a good time.

Throw Throw Burrito

Throw Throw Burrito is a crazy family card/dodgeball game. It is very competitive and fast paced. Play is similar to spoons because the cards are passed from one player to the next with each player attempting to make a matched set of 3 cards. Some of the sets cause players to grab the soft burritos and attempt to hit one another with them. It is a very active game, great for kids with lots of energy!

Best Family Games for late elementary aged kids-Ages 8-10

Finally your children are ready for fun games to play with a little more complexity. A little more math and reading will be required. More complex games can also be much more fun! Here are some of my family go to favorites.

Ticket to ride a fun game to play.

Squirrels

Squirrels is a card game that is simple to learn and very fun to play. We stumbled upon this game because my daughter likes squirrels. It was a small and inexpensive game that made a cute stocking stuffer. It ended up being a family favorite. The object of the game is to collect nuts of the same color. There are also wild cards and attack cards that make play fun! You may end up stealing, hoarding, or dumpster diving during your quest to collect your nuts.

Slapzi

Slapzi is a fast paced game. There are several ways to play. Basically you are delt cards with pictures on them. When a clue card is flipped you have to be the first player to match one of your picture cards to the clue card. The faster and more creative you are the more likely you will match all of your cards first. Just be ready to defend some of your creative matches.

Ticket to Ride

Ticket to Ride is a great family board game of strategy. There are several versions of the game including maps from all over the world. Each board includes a map with train routes. Players are delt routes that they have to complete by obtaining the correct amount of train cards to complete each section of the route. Points are earned for each section and for each completed route. Watch out for your opponents stealing the route you need.

Rummikub

Rummikub is a classic game of strategy. It is similar to the card game Rummy but played with tiles instead of cards. Deal out 14 tiles to each player, then you have to match 3 different colored numbers or 3 same colored numbers in order before you can lay them down in the center. Each player can play on other sets of three or use numbers from other sets to make new sets. The object is to get rid of all of your tiles first. Simple but classic family fun.

Poetry for Neanderthals

Poetry for Neanderthals is a fun game where you have to give clues in only single syllable words to get your team to guess the word. If you say a word with more than one syllable someone from the other team can hit you with an inflatable caveman club and you have to choose a new word.

Butts in Space

Butts in Space is a slightly inappropriate butt totally fitting game for this age group. You get to play as a Classy, Hairy, Bow or Butt Butt. You try to collect the most toilet paper before the spaceship is repaired.

Mexican Train

Mexican Train is a classic game played with dominos. It gets it’s name from the name of the train that all players can play on. Each player tries to get rid of their dominos first by placing them on their own train or the Mexican train by matching up the numbers. It’s easy to learn and fun to play. For full rules check out this site.

Camel Up

fun family game -camel up

Camel up is a betting board game for up to 8 players. The object is to gain the most money from betting on racing camels. These camels don’t run at a steady pace however. Sometimes they end up stacking on top of one another and are carried along. Only the roll of the dice will tell you which camel will move next. Bet early to score more points!

Best Family Games for Middle School Kids-Ages 10-13

Now for the real fun. Once you have middle school aged kids you can add more strategy and a little more offence. More fun games to play indeed.

Telestrations

Telestrations is a very fun spin on the classic telephone game. Instead of whispering something into the ear of the next player, you start by drawing a picture. The next player flips the page and writes down what they think the drawing is, the next player draws a picture and so on. The result is often something that is not at all what the original clue was, and lots of laughs!

Catan

Catan is an intense strategy game. The object is to gain the most points by building roads, settlements and cities. It’s best suited for people who love strategy games.

Photo of Catan
Photo by Aksel Fristrup on Unsplash

Codenames

Codenames is a game of clues, quiet and calculating. 25 cards with single words are laid out on the table. Players take turns giving single word clues to try to get their teammates to guess the correct words. Be careful not to guess the wrong word, it could mean points for the other team or an instant loss.

Apples to Apples

Apples to Apples is a crazy game of comparisons. Each player is delt cards with words on them. A main category card is flipped over. All players except the judge chooses a card from their hand that relates to the main category card. The judge chooses which card they think best relates to the main card. The round winner keeps the card. The judge changes each round. It’s fun to see the crazy comparisons other people choose.

Exploding Kittens

Exploding Kittens is a cut throat card game. It’s fun to play, but you do have to be a little bit mean to other players. In order to win all of the other players must draw an exploding kitten card with no way to prevent the explosion from happening. Once a player draws an exploding kitten they are out. Last player wins!

Dutch Blitz

Dutch Blitz is a fast paced card game. the rules are simple, but in order to win you have to be fast. Or at least faster than everyone else. The object is to be the first player to get rid of all of the cards in your blitz pile.

Scattergories

Scattergories is a category game. There are several lists that come with the game. You choose a list, them roll for a letter. Start the timer and everyone must come up with a word starting with the selected letter for each item on the list. Double words like “Peter Pan” are worth extra points. Be careful not to choose the same word as another player, or there will be no points for either of you.

Happy Little Dinosaurs

Happy Little Dinosaurs is a disaster avoiding game. You try to avoid disasters by getting other players to take the hit. You can also gain points for being the best disaster avoider. The cards are really cute, each one with adorable descriptions, yes even the disasters are creative and humorous. A really fun game to play with family or friends.

Spicy Uno

Spicy Uno is a game played with regular Uno cards with spiced up rules. It is a little crazier than the traditional game and helps make it fun again for a family that needs something new to play.

Best Family Games for High School aged Kids-Ages 14-18 to Adult

Beyond Balderdash

Beyond Balderdash is is a game of fibbing. What can be more fun than making up definitions, weird laws, Acronyms, movie plots or reasons for fame? Give it a try and you will not be disappointed. You will probably get a few laughs too.

Coup

Coup is a game of strategy, lies and influence. The object is to be the last player with a character card, your influence. In order to win you may have to use another character’s influence, which is perfectly legal if you get away with it. Who is the best liar in the family? Find out by playing Coup.

Here to Slay

Here to Slay is a competitive strategy game that involves slaying monsters and collecting heroes. There are two ways to win, slaying 3 monsters or collecting all 6 types of heroes. Watch out for your opponents who are all out to stop you!

The Resistance

The Resistance is a game of deception. Sometimes you have to lie to get others to trust you. Each player is secretly assigned a role, either an operative or a spy. Good guy or bad guy. Either way you try to convince the group that you are indeed good and trustworthy. Lots of accusations and pleas for trust ensue each round as players attempt to work together or secretly against each other to win!

Taboo

Taboo is a word guessing game with certain words that are taboo and cannot be used to describe the word you want your team to guess. If a player uses a taboo word an player from the other team will buzz them and they must move on to the next word. The team with the most guess words wins.

Dominion

Dominion is a deck building game with plenty of expansions to keep the game interesting. What I love about this game is the endless changes that keep the strategy changing every time you play. The base game set comes with 25 different cards that can be swapped in and out for each game. Each game will use only 10 of the base cards. There are 3 different victory card types and 3 types of treasure, that are used in all games. Additional base cards, victory cards and treasures are available in expansion packs. The fun never ends.

Fun games to play with a standard deck of cards

Spoons

Spoons is a easy card game to play with young kids. The rules are simple, it’s fast paced and lots of fun! All you need is a regular deck of cards, at least 3 people, and one less spoon than the number of players you have. For example: if you have 5 people, you will need 4 spoons.

How to play spoons

Deal out 4 cards to each player. The object of the game is to get 4 of a kind. The dealer starts by drawing a card, they can choose to keep it or discard it or another card to the person to their left. The next person picks up the card and discards to their left. The cards continue to round the circle until someone gets 4 of a kind. When they do, they grab a spoon. Once a player takes a spoon, all of the other players can grab a spoon. The player who does not get a spoon, gets an S. Each time a player does not get a spoon they get another letter until they have spelled SPOON. Once they spell SPOON, they are out.


Trash

Trash is a game that can be played with a regular deck of cards. If you have more than 2 players use 1 deck for every 2 players.

How to play Trash

Each player is delt 10 cards (2 rows of 5) face down cards in front of them. The remaining cards are placed in a draw pile in the middle.

The object of the game is to get all 10 cards in front of you flipped over in order Ace-10. Jacks are wild. Kings and Queens end your turn. The dealer starts by drawing a card from the top of the deck. If it is an Ace or 2-10, they replace the corresponding card in front of them, with the correct number face up. If the card they replaced can be used for another card in front of them, they can continue to use them until they end up with a King, Queen, or a number they don’t need. They then discard face up. The next player can draw from the discard pile or the draw pile. Continue until one player has A-10 face up in from of them.

Collect all of the cards and re-deal. The player who won the previous round gets 1 less card. Each time a player wins a round they get 1 less card until one player only has 1 card and replaces it with an Ace or Jack.


Euchre

Euchre is my favorite card game. I do understand that it is a midwestern game, but I think anyone could enjoy it if you try. In Michigan learning to play Euchre is a rite of passage.

How to set up for Euchre

Start by removing all cards less than 9 from the deck, leave the aces. The object of the game is to be the first team to gain 10 points. Euchre is played with only 4 players, 2 teams. Your partner sits across from you. It is a trick taking game.

How to deal in Euchre

The dealer deals 5 cards to each player going around only twice: dealing 1-4 cards at a time to each player each round. For example deal 2-3-2-3 then 3-2-3-2. Then the dealer sets down the remaining cards and turns over the top card.

How to play Euchre

After the deal, the player to the left is the first to choose weather or not he/she wants the suit of the flipped up card to be trump. If he/she wants it to be trump, they tell the dealer to pick it up. If they do not want that suit they say pass. All player in turn choose this way. If the dealer is told to pick it up, or chooses to pick it up, they must discard a card so they only have 5 cards. If nobody wants that suit to be trump the dealer passes by turning over that card. Now the person to the left is the first to choose any other suit to be trump, or pass. Each player is given this option until trump is selected. If nobody chooses the dealer must choose trump.

During the trump selection phase any player can choose trump and choose to go alone. In this case their partner does not play and they must win at least 3 tricks to score a point, but if they win all 5 they can score 4 points.

The player to the left of the dealer leads a card. All other players must follow suit, unless they do not have that suit, then they can play any card including trump. The trick is won by the highest card played

Rank of cards in Euchre

The highest card is the Jack of trump also called the right bower. The second highest card is the jack of the same color as trump also called the left bower. For example if spades is trump the jack of spades is the highest card followed by the jack of clubs, then the Ace, king, queen, 10 and 9 of spades. For non-trump suits Ace is the highest followed by King, Queen, Jack, 10 and 9. But Trump always beats non-trump.

How to score in Euchre

  • Team get 3-4 tricks = 1 point
  • Team gets 5 tricks = 2 points
  • Team gets 3 or more tricks when the other team called trump (a Euchre) = 2 points
  • Lone hand wins 3-4 tricks = 1 point
  • Lone hand wins 5 tricks = 5 points

Spades

Spades is another trick taking card game. There are 4 players (2 teams) partners sit across from each other. Use a full deck with or without the jokers. If you choose to use the jokers remove the two red 2’s. The jokers are high, make sure you determine which joker is the highest before you start (usually the colored one).

How to play Spades

The object of the game is to be the first team to score 300 points.

Start by dealing out all of the cards equally to all 4 players. Spades are always trump, jokers highest (if used) then Ace, king, queen, jack and all the numbers in descending order. The player to the left of the dealer leads and all others must follow suit unless they don’t have that suit. Highest card wins the trick. Play until all cards are used. During the first round each trick won is worth 10 points.

After the first round the deal moves to the left and after the cards a delt the team that did not deal has to bid how many tricks they think they can win. The minimum bid is 4. Then the other team bids. Once all bids are in play starts. At the end of each round the count up the tricks and score.

How to score in Spades

  • If you did not get at least as many tricks as you bid: loose 10X the number bid. For example bid 4 win 3 -loose 40 points
  • Score 10 points for every trick you bid and won and 1 point for every trick you win but did not bid. For example bid 5 win 6 – score 51 points

Up and Down the River (aka: Oh Hell)

Up and Down the River is another trick taking game. You need between 3 and 7 people.

How to play Up and Down the River

The dealer deals 1 card to each player in round one then places the next card face up, the suit of the turned u card is trump. For each subsequent round deal moves to the left and 1 additional card is delt up to 7 cards then back down to 1 card.

Each round players must bid how many tricks they think they will win from zero to the number of cards delt, starting with the player to the left of the dealer. The dealer bids last and his/her bid cannot make the number of tricks bid = the number of cards delt. For example if 1 card is delt to 3 people and the first two players both bid zero, the dealer cannot bid 1, because only one card was delt. In this case the dealer must bid zero.

The player to the left of the dealer leads, other players must follow suit if they have that suit, otherwise they can play any card. Highest card wins. Trump beats other suits, aces are high.

How to Score Up and Down the River

1 point for each trick taken + 10 extra points if you bid correctly. Highest score wins

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Recipes

Easy Leftover Turkey Enchilada Soup

If you are searching for a great way to use up your leftover turkey, search no more. This quick and easy leftover turkey enchilada soup is sure to please. It’s simply a twist on the more traditional chicken enchilada soup. Certainly better than Campbells or chili’s chicken enchilada soup. As long as you have the stock prepared, you could be enjoying this soup in about 20 minutes.

How do you prepare turkey stock?

Start by boiling the leftover turkey carcass in a pot of water for 4-5 hours. You can add a few cilantro stems to the pot to enhance the flavor. Strain the stock while it is still warm. Then allow the meat to cool a bit before stripping the remaining meat from the bones.

What is the secret to the best enchilada soup?

The first secret ingredient that makes the best enchilada soup is masa harina. It is the flour used for making corn tortillas. Turns out it is also the best flour to use when thickening your enchilada soup.

The second secret ingredient is Monterey Jack cheese shredded from the block. If you by the block of cheese and shred it yourself it will melt into the soup creating a creamy broth. Do not try to melt pre-shredded cheese into your soup. It does not melt well and will always have little strings of not quite melted cheese in the broth.

Leftover turkey enchilada soup ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons avocado oil
  • 1 large onion chopped
  • 4-5 cloves of garlic minced
  • 2/3 cup masa harina
  • 5 cups turkey stock
  • 3 cups leftover turkey, cubed or shredded
  • 3 (10-ounce) cans red enchilada sauce (mild, medium or hot)
  • 1 (7-ounce) can of green chilis or hatch chilis
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin
  • 1 (15-ounce) can of black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 (15-ounce) can corn
  • 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 8 ounces of Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • tortilla strips
  • 3 avocados, diced
  • 1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped

How to make leftover turkey enchilada soup

  • In a large pot, heat up the avocado oil, add the onion and sauté until starting to soften, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute.
  • Then make a roux by adding the masa harina until the onions are garlic are evenly coated.
  • Add the stock 1 cup at a time while stirring.
  • Once the stock is warm and slightly thickened, add the enchilada sauce, cumin, turkey, chilis, tomatoes, beans, and corn.
  • Optional: Stir in the shredded Monterey Jack cheese. If you choose to do this, I would recommend using cheese shredded from a block rather than pre-shredded cheese.
  • Top with Shredded Monterey Jack cheese, tortilla strips, chopped cilantro and cubed avocado.

If you like this soup, try my better than olive garden Zuppa Toscana recipe.

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