#AskWardee: Recent Episodes
Wardee Harmon
Wardee is a wife and mom of 3, the lead teacher and owner of TraditionalCookingSchool.com and the author of the Complete Idiot's Guide to Fermenting Foods. #AskWardee is the weekly show devoted to answering your niggling questions about traditional cooking: whether it's your sourdough starter, your sauerkraut, preserving foods, broth, superfoods or anything else to do with Traditional Cooking. Catch #AskWardee live each Wednesday at 10am P at Periscope.tv/TradCookSchool or via replays and show notes at AskWardee.tv.
If you love freshly-ground flour for baking, you may sometimes get confused... How many berries should you grind to make up a certain amount of flour? Wonder no more! Here's an easy wheat berries to flour conversion rate, so you can quickly know how much flour to grind. This berries to flour ratio works for nearly all grains, too! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw118
You want lighter baked goods, like fluffy biscuits, light pancakes, and spongy cake? It's time to learn how to sift flour at home... a.k.a. homemade all-purpose flour! With this simple step, you can really turn up your baking game. Watch, listen, or read to learn how to make all-purpose flour -- and why it's healthy even if it's not whole grain!
For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw117
Tangles, frizz, dryness... Desperation! Curly hair can really put us through the ringer (ha, ha!). Well, no more, because I have finally learned THE best way to care for curly hair. Here's how to style curly hair naturally, tips for the best products, my daily hair care routine plus my before and after photos, and more... whether you have short, long, or wavy hair! It even works for kids. Time to embrace your natural hair.
For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw116
Want an Instant Pot so you can cook quick and healthy meals (like chicken or yogurt) for your family? Can't decide which Instant Pot is best? That's okay! Watch, listen, or read for a side-by-side comparison and review of the different Instant Pot sizes and models... so you can choose the best Instant Pot to buy for YOU! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw048
Traditional foods, like bone broth, kefir, and ferments, are typically made in large batches for families. But what if it's just you (or you and your partner)? Watch, listen, or read for my 5 tips for traditional cooking for one (or two!) so you can eat Real Food with less work and less waste! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw115
What's the BEST way to skim cream off whole, raw milk so you can use it in your coffee or to make cultured butter or sour cream? It's got to be simple, mess-free, and can't require any special tools, either. I've got the answer for you... watch, listen or read to find out! What's the BEST way to skim cream off whole, raw milk so you can use it in your coffee or to make cultured butter or sour cream? It's got to be simple, mess-free, and can't require any special tools, either. I've got the answer for you... For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw114
When creating a sourdough starter from scratch, my advice is to feed twice daily... each time, discarding HALF the volume just before you feed. Yet, some find this wasteful. Watch, listen, or read to learn why you're actually being frugal when you discard half your starter at each feeding! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw113
There's a new "whole wheat" on the block: ultragrain white whole wheat. Heard of it? Neither had I until Sarah asked if the hard white wheat she loves to use is the same as this new wheat. Is ultragrain white whole wheat healthy? Should you use it for sourdough recipes? Watch, listen, or read to find out! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw112
Uh oh, your kefir separated or got too strong. What to do with over-fermented kefir? Should you throw it in the trash? Watch, listen, or read to learn my 9 uses for over-soured kefir! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw111
After just 3 days, Julie P. found herself with dense and molded bread and asked, "Does sourdough get moldy that quickly?!" Watch, listen, or read while I troubleshoot these sourdough problems and share my tips for baking light loaves, starter care, and how to succeed at my No-Knead Einkorn Sourdough Bread recipe. For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw110
If you enjoy using essential oils in cooking, you may have wondered if you can flavor ferments with essential oils. Is it safe? Will it affect the fermentation process? Watch, listen, or read to learn my answer (you might be surprised)! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw109
Just a drop or less of an essential oil can add tons of flavor (and health benefits) to your raw or cooked dishes! Which oils should you start with? And, how do you use them? Watch, listen, or read to learn the top 5 essential oils for cooking, plus how to use them! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw108
You want to cut back on sugar so you decide to switch to stevia, the sweet-tasting herb with no calories and no glycemic impact. But, which stevia is best? Should you use liquid or powder? And what brand? Watch, listen, or read to learn how to choose the least processed, best-tasting stevia! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw107
Stevia: the sweet-tasting herb with no sugar or calories! Sounds like the perfect option for sweetening desserts when you're avoiding sugar, right? Well, yes and no... Watch, listen, or read to learn how to sweeten desserts using only stevia, plus how to sub stevia for sugar and still get great results! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw106
Does dry winter skin keep you scratching or in pain? Do you feel like you can't get enough lotion to heal your dry, cracking, or bleeding skin? Watch, listen, or read for my 16 tips to prevent and heal dry winter skin naturally, plus learn the BEST things to put on your skin to keep it moisturized (hint: it's NOT lotion!). For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw105
What's the best way to get your Kombucha from the big fermenting vessel into swing-top bottles? Pouring straight from the jar is messy, and Kombucha spills everywhere! Watch, listen, or read to learn how to decant Kombucha into bottles using food grade tubing and an inexpensive auto bottling siphon. For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw104
Did you know... Kombucha rarely grows mold? The SCOBY (mother culture) is quite hardy and balanced. Yet, mold does happen sometimes. Watch, listen, or read to learn how to tell if your Kombucha is moldy, plus what to do about it and how to prevent mold in future batches! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw103
The holidays roll around... and it's so hard to resist those sweets and treats! Is it possible to stick to your healthy eating plan and still enjoy your food? Be encouraged! Not only is it possible to enjoy Trim Healthy holidays, it might be more doable than you think! Watch, listen, or read for my tips to help you stay on Trim Healthy Mama... yes, even during the holidays! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw102
Conventional scented candles and air fresheners are full of endocrine-disrupting chemicals and are as toxic as second-hand smoke! But, what if you want to fill your home with holiday ambiance and smells? Watch, listen, or read to learn how to create delicious-smelling Christmas and wintertime essential oil diffuser blends that boast health benefits, too! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw101
If milling your own fresh-ground flour isn't exciting enough, let's explore other things your grain mill can do! From cracked grains for delicious breakfast porridge and bean flour to spices and powdered sugar, watch, listen, or read to discover how easy and fun it is to use your grain mill for more than just flour! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw100
Baking with fresh-ground flour and baking with store-bought flour ARE NOT the same! Watch, listen, or read to learn my tips and tricks for getting the light and fluffy baked goods using home-milled flour and traditional preparation methods, when to sift, baking with sprouted flour, and the best home grain mill to use for great results! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw099
Milling gluten-free grains into flour... Is it possible? Yes, it is! And... significant money savings, your own custom flour blend(s), and better results are in store when you mill your own gluten-free flours and mix them into custom gluten-free flour blends. Watch, listen, or read to learn about milling gluten-free grains, which mill I recommend, and how to create gluten-free flour blends for light and fluffy results! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw098
Grain mills, whole grains, milling flour... oh my! You had lots of questions about home grain milling, like... what are the types of grain mills and which one should I buy? What grains should I use and where can I get them? And most importantly, why would I want to mill my own flour anyway?! Watch, listen, or read for my answers to on the basics of home grain milling! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw097
f you plan to use essential oils in your cooking, you want to have them handy, right? Well… the kitchen is NOT the best place to keep your oils! Watch, listen, or read to learn how to organize and store your essential oils to protect your investment and use them for cooking and in daily life! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw096
One of the best ways to lose weight is to reduce sugar consumption. So, what about grains, beans, and dairy? Do sprouting, culturing, or sourdough reduce carbs in these foods, making them healthy for those with diabetes, hormone imbalances, or weight issues? For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw095
You go through all the effort of soaking and dehydrating your oats (for granola or traditionally prepared Trim Healthy Mama recipes) only to end up with rock-hard, glued-together clumps! Ouch! Watch, listen, or read to learn how to make pre-soaked oats that are perfect! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw094
Are you trying to find raw milk because you want the benefits of this traditional food... but you don't know where to find it or how to buy it legally? We love our raw milk (and all the cultured foods we make from it!), so watch, listen, or read to learn how you can source this nourishing food, too. For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw093
You're doing everything right... You eat nourishing foods, you exercise, you get plenty of sleep, and yet you still have deficiencies! Should you take a multi-vitamin or individual vitamins? Watch, listen, or read to find out what we do and what you might consider! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw092
Essential oils are wonderful for hormone balance in your bath, diffuser, or even applied directly on the skin... yet what could be easier than blending them together in a roll-on bottle? Watch, listen, or read to learn how to make a Hormone-Balancing Essential Oil Roll-On! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw091
We store our mother cultures on or in the oven and -- uh oh! -- we turn it on and they heat up! What to do if your kefir grains got too warm? Are they dead? Watch, listen, or read to find out what to do! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw090
Did you know… if your ferments are too close together, cross-contamination happens? Unless you know how far apart to space your ferments, you could end up with “fluffy” cheese or yeasty-tasting veggies. Watch, listen, or read to learn the “rules” and when it’s ok to break them! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw089
There are so many toxins and chemicals in cosmetics and hair products -- toxins that contribute to hormone imbalances, toxic load, and even cancer. Be naturally beautiful and reduce toxins! Watch, listen, or read for my favorite natural and non-toxic makeup, hair, and personal care products! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw088
Crumbs, drips, and more can make your Instant Pot awfully cruddy. And it’s no fun to pull out your Instant Pot and find that it was put away dirty. Watch, listen, or read to learn how to clean your Instant Pot easily and naturally! It’s not exciting… but it’s essential! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw087
Want to save money, flavor your Kombucha, and build up carbonation? Bottle it! Watch, listen, or read to learn how to second ferment Kombucha, how to choose the right bottles, and what to do if it's too sour! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw086
Can you make Kombucha with honey -- even raw honey? This is what our family does because we don't want to consume any sugar that remains after Kombucha ferments! Watch, listen, or read to learn why and how I make our Kombucha with raw honey -- using a regular Kombucha scoby! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw085
Healthy meat processing is kind to the animals and produces the best tasting meat! Watch, listen, or read for the best way to slaughter and butcher meat — whether you’re sourcing your meat from a local farm or doing the processing yourself! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw084
If you've been making Kombucha for a while, you know that the scoby (mother culture) grows thicker with each batch. Learn how to divide a Kombucha scoby so you can share with friends, dehydrate it, give it to your pets, or add it to your scoby hotel! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw083
With benefits like potential weight loss, increased energy and metabolism, a boost in thyroid function, and more, it's easy to see why MCT oil is a hot topic these days. But which one should you buy? Watch, listen, or read for the criteria I use when selecting the best MCT oil for my family. For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw082
Do you need dairy-free milk options, but are confused about what's the best choice for your family? What about additives, like guar gum or even sugar? What's the best and healthiest coconut milk to buy? Watch, listen, or read to learn my top 3 picks! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw081
You know it's time to quit sugar and artificial sweeteners are no good, for sure. What about sugar alcohols? Are xylitol and erythritol healthy or natural? Watch, listen, or read to find out the answers, our favorite nourishing recipes, and get a special offer! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw080
You know how to use your Instant Pot to reheat leftovers, but what about frozen foods? How can you take advantage of freezer cooking in your Instant Pot? Watch, listen, or read to learn how to reheat frozen food in the Instant Pot! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw079
Is heartburn or acid reflux making eating (or even just living) difficult? Are you tired of managing heartburn with prescriptions that don't actually heal? Watch, listen, or read for my 5 steps to healing heartburn and acid reflux through diet, lifestyle, and natural remedies! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw078
Is raw dairy good for you? What about lactose intolerance or avoiding dairy for gut health? What about the "experts" who say to avoid dairy completely? For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw077
When I asked readers and members what they wanted to know about women's health, I got a bombardment of replies about menopause, low sex drives, and PMS. Watch, listen, or read to learn more about sex hormone balancing and bio-identical hormone therapy for women! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw076
Please forgive me as I broach a stinky subject... smelly bathrooms! Natural mamas don't have to put up with those smells! The toxic chemicals in commercial air fresheners are scary -- so freshen your home's air naturally with a homemade essential oil air freshener! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw075
Oh no! You tried fermenting and your ferment got mushy and grew mold! What to do? Is it safe to eat, or should you toss it? And most importantly, how to prevent mold during fermentation in the future? For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw074
What does your meat have to do with hormone balance and inflammation? Does the kind of meat you buy really matter? Watch, listen, or read to learn the difference between grain-fed and grass-fed meat and why grass-fed really is better for you! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw073
Coconut oil is amazing, and everyone says you should use it, but... refined, expeller pressed, virgin, cold pressed... Are you ready to pull your hair out? Which coconut oil should you buy??? Watch, listen, or read to learn the best coconut oil to suit your family's taste (and health!) preferences! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw072
Coconuts are nuts... so does coconut flour contain phytic acid? Does coconut flour need to be soaked? Watch, listen, or read to find out, plus get some yummy and easy coconut flour recipes! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw071
You include plenty of bones, soft tissue, and even bones with marrow when making your bone broth. But what if some of that nourishing, healing marrow is still in the bones when the broth is done cooking? What are the best ways to extract marrow for bone broth? Watch, listen, or read so you don't miss any of the benefits of bone marrow! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw070
You have a thriving sourdough starter, and now you're ready to transition to 5,000-year-old einkorn -- an ancient variety of wheat that's healthier and has less gluten than modern wheat. Watch, listen, or read to learn how to transition a sourdough starter to einkorn. Plus, get my FREE no-knead einkorn sourdough bread recipe! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw069
Properly cared for, wooden kitchen tools can last many years -- long enough to pass on as family heirlooms. Is mineral oil the best or safest choice? Watch, listen, or read to learn how to care for wood cutting boards and utensils naturally! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw068
Until my late 30s, I suffered from life-long, debilitating seasonal allergies. Then I started the GAPS Diet... and now I've been allergy-free for 5 years! Gut-healing diets can be so overwhelming (believe me!). Watch, listen, or read to learn about gut-healing diets made simple! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw067
Heather's family is large, and they're struggling financially. She wants to eat the best quality meat, yet her budget doesn't go that far. What should she do??? Are there any OK compromises or should they just eat less? Watch, listen, or read to find out what to buy if you can't afford organic meat! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw066
Marie wants to know the best and healthiest flours for sourdough... She also wants low-glycemic, versatile, and cheap flours. For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw065
Is it possible to follow the Trim Healthy Mama plan for weight loss with go-to traditional foods? Yes! I did it (and still do) and so can you! Watch, listen, or read for my top 3 go-to traditional foods for Trim Healthy Mama -- plus snag my free traditional foods THM 7-day meal plan! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw064
You're supposed to avoid crucifers if you have thyroid disease, but does fermenting reduce goitrogens? Watch, listen, or read for my answers to this question -- and the real question: do fermented cruciferous vegetables hurt the thyroid? For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw063
Cast iron is my top pick for non-stick cooking. It's easy to care for your cast iron, too. Watch, listen, or read for my tips on the BEST cast iron seasoning, plus how to know when to re-season cast iron! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw062
Bethany needs an easy and natural non-toxic cleaning spray recipe that won't irritate sensitive skin. I've got one for her -- we've been using it for 15 years! Watch, listen, or read for my homemade, all-purpose cleaning spray with essential oils! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw061
Homemade cultured dairy lasts longer than anything you can purchase at the store... but just how long does kefir last? And can it be frozen? How do you know if it's still good? For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw060
Can you freeze sourdough starter? The short answer is: yes. Some people just put the sourdough starter as-is in a bag in the freezer, yet I'm going to suggest a better way to do it... My way takes up less space and is easier to share with others. Watch, listen, or read to learn the best way to freeze sourdough starter and then bring it back to life! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw059
Lori L. asks, "Is the sourdough bread bought in the store made with a live culture or a flavoring?" In other words, is store-bought sourdough TRUE sourdough? Watch, listen, or read to learn the truth! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw057
It doesn't matter that everyone says it's easy and fast... It might not be easy or fast for YOU if you don't know how to use it. If your Instant Pot is still in the box... here are 3 things you can do right NOW to begin using it + the best first thing to make in the Instant Pot! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw058
It is possible to take your favorite, hands-off slow cooker recipes and adapt them for your pressure cooker or Instant Pot. Watch, listen, or read for my 9 tips to convert slow cooker recipes into pressure cooker recipes! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw056
Want to use herbal extracts ... but not if they're made with alcohol? Judy B. is in the same boat... She has small children and prefers not to give them alcohol. Watch, listen, or read to learn how to make powerful herbal extracts -- without alcohol! It's SUPER easy! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw055
The week before last, I felt that tell-tale tickle in the back of my throat and had a full-blown cold within 24 hours. I used 2 natural remedies to get over it quickly. Watch, listen, or read to find out what remedies actually worked! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw054
“Why, oh why, can’t I just bake a loaf of lighter, less dense sourdough bread?” This is something that every sourdough baker faces…including me. Here are 11 tips to help you get lighter, less dense sourdough bread. For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw053
Since switching to ancient einkorn for baking, my sourdough routine has gone back and forth between daily and weekly care. Watch, listen, or read to learn about how my routine changes depending on the season and how we're eating. For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw052
Uh-oh. You've got a finished batch of kefir but...the grains are nowhere to be found. Anna P. has a case of missing kefir grains too. Watch, listen, or read to learn how to find kefir grains when they seem to have disappeared. For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw051
I didn't like cranberry sauce... until I made it myself with whole food ingredients. Now, Bridget A. wants to know if I have a recipe for naturally sweetened cranberry sauce. Watch, listen, or read to learn how to make fast and easy cranberry sauce in the Instant Pot! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw050
Potentially, the holidays could be quite stressful... because someone in your family is on a special diet and you need to come up with a delicious meal that everyone can eat. Lisa D. is having the same problem. Watch, listen, or read to find out about yummy allergy-free holiday recipes! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw049
Deanna wants an Instant Pot, but she doesn't know which size to buy or how to choose the best Instant Pot for her family. I know the feeling... Watch, listen, or read to find out which size Instant Pot is best for my family (and yours)! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw048
Do you want to get rid of your microwave for good and reheat leftovers in a healthier way? So does Ann. She asks, "How do I reheat food in an Instant Pot? Can it possibly replace my microwave?" Watch, listen, or read to learn how to reheat leftovers in the Instant Pot! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw047
What’s the best way to take herbs? It’s the herbal supplement showdown… Tea, infusion, capsule, or tincture? For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw046
Trying to get out of debt and still eat healthy on a budget? So is Debbie. She asks: “We’re trying to get out of debt. How do we eat healthy on a budget?" The good news? It IS possible! Watch, listen, or read to find out how! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw045
Kefir, yogurt, clabber… With all the options out there, which one is the cultured dairy with the most probiotics?? For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw044
It seems like such a betrayal not to use your bubbling sourdough starter when you’re baking, right? If you're wishing you knew how to convert recipes to sourdough, you're not alone! Watch, listen, or read to learn how to adapt recipes to sourdough! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw043
Samantha A. asked on Twitter, "Does canning kill probiotics in fermented foods?" Watch, listen, or read to find out my answer, plus the best way to preserve fermented foods! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw042
"How do I make easy to peel hard boiled eggs?" asks Angel on today's #AskWardee. I'll share the frustration-free, no-fail way to do it. Works every time! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw041
“Which is better — kefir grains or kefir powder?” asks Jen on today’s #AskWardee. I’ll talk about what dairy kefir is, then I’ll share which I think is the better choice! It’s a showdown! Kefir grains vs. kefir powder! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw040
Using essential oils in cooking... It is safe? How do you do it? How much to use? I'll answer these questions and more on today's #AskWardee. Watch, listen, or read to learn more about using essential oils in your cooking! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw039
Linda K. asks, 'How can we heal my grandson's terrible eczema?' Watch, listen, or read to find out our family's story and how to heal eczema naturally. For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw038
"What's the best way to store herbs and spices?" asks Julie D. on today's #AskWardee. Watch, listen, or read to find out my top picks for storing herbs and spices! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://tradcookschool.com/aw037
"I made coconut kefir with kefir grains. They don't smell or taste good now. Did I ruin my grains?" asks Janet M. on today's #AskWardee. Watch, listen, or read to find out my answer! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw036
"Is sourdough bread low glycemic?" asks Shannon D. on today's #AskWardee. Watch, listen, or read to learn about sourdough bread and blood sugar! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw035
"What are your top ways to use essential oils?" asks Julie B. on today's #AskWardee. Watch, listen, or read to find out my 8 favorite uses for essential oils + what brand is my favorite! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw034
"Can I eat fermented foods if I have candida?" asks Wendy D. on today's #AskWardee. Watch, listen, or read to find out the answer! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw033
"I need ideas and uses for whey! I am swimming in it!" exclaims Julia A. on today's #AskWardee. I explain what whey is and give 11 creative uses for whey that you'll love -- especially if you have an abundance! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw032
"Is using commercial yeast in sourdough bread healthy?" asks Cheri B., who sprouts her wheat before using it in her sourdough preparation, so she can shortcut her rising time. But what if you're not using sprouted flour and you want a less sour bread? I'm answering all these questions on today's #AskWardee! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw031
"How do I use all this yogurt cheese after I drip the whey out?" asks Cecilia E. on today's #AskWardee. Along with using it for spreading on toast and cheesecake, I'm giving 9 MORE uses for yogurt cheese! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw030
"I get a stomach ache from quinoa. Will rinsing and soaking help?" asks Susan on today's #AskWardee. Yes, rinsing and soaking will help -- and here's why AND how to rinse and soak quinoa so you don't get a stomach ache! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw029
“How do you eat Real Food when traveling?" asks Amanda G. on today's #AskWardee. Before deciding what to eat, I have to identify a few things first: are we flying or driving? Will I be able to cook or have access to a refrigerator? Do I need special utensils or appliances? Once I know the answers, I can eat Real Food wherever I go! Here's how... For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw028
“How do I know if my ferment is spoiled or not?" asks Ally D. on today's #AskWardee. I'm telling you... You will know. You just will, but there's a bit more involved in how to tell if a ferment is spoiled or not. For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw027.
"Can I use inexpensive pomace olive oil for frying?" Lucila D. asks on today's #AskWardee. Ever heard of pomace olive oil? It's the last bit of oil that can be extracted from olives, making it decidedly not extra-virgin (that's the first pressing)...yet also pleasantly inexpensive. Can or should it be used in a healthy kitchen, though? And what about for frying? For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw026
“What Real Foods can I cook even if I'm super busy?" Lovina R. asks. I get this question a lot, actually. We're short on time and wonder how to fit in traditional foods and cooking from scratch. I've got 6 tips to get you cooking Real Food with a busy schedule. For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw025
“Help! My Kombucha is too sweet and not fizzy at all!" Milena S. shares on today's #AskWardee. Let’s talk about what Kombucha is, why it might be too sweet after fermenting, and what your options are to fix this issue. For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw024/
My linen couche is one of my favorite things to use in the kitchen -- especially when baking my no-knead einkorn sourdough bread. “What is a linen couche proofing cloth? How do I use it and care for it?" Melissa C. wants to know on today's #AskWardee. I'm answering all her questions! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw023
“My Kombucha is way too sour when I get to it!" Helen L. says on today's #askwardee. Helen wants to know what to do to keep her Kombucha from going sour while she's trying to drink the previous batch. (And whatever she does... she wants it to be just as healthy -- a great concern, by the way!) Keep reading for my answer! For video replay, links and more, visit the show notes at http://www.tradcookschool.com/aw022
“Can I feed my sourdough starter different kinds of flour? If so, how often?" Pam F. asks on today's #AskWardee. Yes, you can feed your starter different kinds of flours. Here are some things to keep in mind. For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw021
"Keep it warm, KEEP IT WARM!" When someone is having sourdough trouble, I ask: "Is it warm enough?" Which begs this question... If it needs to be warm, will cold ingredients kill it or will it be OK? So asks Tami T, and I'm answering today. For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw020
“Is pressure cooking healthy?” Nicole D. asks on today's #AskWardee. I used to think it wasn't, but now... Here's my answer! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw019
“What’s your daily sourdough routine so that you don’t have too much or too little starter for all your family’s baking, so that you’re not baking every day, and so it’s not overwhelming?” Sarah M. asks on today's #AskWardee. Here's my answer! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw018
“Does sourdough remove phytic acid? My family needs to avoid it because of tooth decay and cavities in my children,” asks Wendy R. I’m sharing my answer on today’s #AskWardee! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw016
“My kefir looks _______! Can we eat it? Are my grains okay?” asks Nanette. I’m taking a look at Nanette’s kefir and sharing my answer to her question on today’s #AskWardee! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw015
“Even though I know it’s so good for me, I do not enjoy cooking a pot of bones… especially with chicken feet! Can I use a quality powered gelatin and achieve similar healing results?” asks Jenny M. I’m sharing my answer on today’s #AskWardee! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw014
“Can you give me a simple, step-by-step plan for getting started with traditional foods in 2016? I would love to break it down into very simple steps. Step 1: do this. Step 2: do that, and so on. Can you help me please?” That’s the question I’m answering on today’s #AskWardee. For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw013
Connie L. asks, “Is local bacteria making my sourdough starter go off?” Before concluding that local geography is causing your starter to go off, first be sure of a few things — which I’m sharing in today’s #AskWardee! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw012
“How do I make coconut kefir?” is the question I’m answering on today’s #AskWardee. There are actually 3 varieties depending on what liquid and culture you choose. Do you know all 3? For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw002
Beet kvass is a fermented probiotic beverage made using beets, salt, and water. Nourishing Traditions says it is an “excellent blood tonic, promotes regularity, aids digestion, alkalizes the blood, cleanses the liver and is a good treatment for kidney stones and other ailments”. Chris asks, “Is it ok for beet kvass to have a film?” I’m answering his question on today’s #AskWardee. For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw010
“Tell me more about feeding and using a gluten-free sourdough starter!” asks Sophia N. on today’s #AskWardee. Yes, the process is very similar for feeding a gluten-free sourdough starter. Here are some tips and resources to get you started! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw009
“Do you need to eat meat to be healthy?” is the question on today’s #AskWardee. I’m coming at this question with some experience, having been vegan and vegetarian in the past. Now we are the healthiest we’ve ever been, and quality animal foods are a cornerstone of our daily diet. I don’t want to answer this question for you, though, so I’m going to go further and give you six points you can use to evaluate whether or not you should add meat to your diet. For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw011
“How do I make cookies yummy and healthy?” asks Renee’s 6-year old on today’s #AskWardee. I’m happy to share 4 ways to do just that! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw006
“Tell me about the blender batter soaking method…” is the question on today’s #AskWardee. I’m happy to share! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw005
“How do I know if my kefir grains aren’t good anymore?” is the question on today’s #AskWardee. I’m happy to share! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw004
“What are your favorite traditional cooking resources like blogs, books, etc.?” is the question on today’s #AskWardee. I’m happy to share! For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw003
Barbara R. wants to know: “Can brine be re-used to make another batch?” Yes, it can be re-used! In fact, it can ensure a better result because it’s bringing a starter culture into the new ferment. But that’s not all you need to know… For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw008
People like me say, “No, no, no, no! You need to SOAK THAT!” You can’t just go into the kitchen and make cookies anymore without a delay. Or can you? Yes, you can! This is why I love sprouting and why we talk about it a lot inside Traditional Cooking School. I’ll answer Sue’s question, “How do you store sprouted grains, and how long do they last?” on today’s #AskWardee. For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw017
Alyssa F. asks, “I am curious if I can use Kombucha instead of apple cider vinegar, whey, or lemon juice when soaking grains or legumes the night before?” Yes, you can! But I won’t leave it there… For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw007
“Why so gloppy and so much hooch, sourdough starter?” and “Can I leave the vinegar out of my broth?” are the questions I’m answering on today’s #AskWardee. For video replay, links, and more, visit the show notes at http://TradCookSchool.com/aw001