Quinoa (pronounced ‘keen-wah’) has been rightfully called a ‘superfood.’ These little seeds are gluten-free and high in protein, fiber, magnesium, B vitamins, potassium, iron, and antioxidants. Quinoa is also a complete protein, which means it contains all nine essential amino acids that our bodies cannot make on their own. These amino acids are necessary for organ function, bone growth, muscle repair, and more.
Once called the ‘mother of all grains,’ or chisaya mama, by the Inca peoples, Quinoa is not actually a grain—it’s a pseudo-cereal. Pseudo-cereals are seeds from non-grass plants that can be eaten just like a grain, but without any gluten. Quinoa seeds have a nutty flavor with the hearty texture of brown rice. Multi-purpose, they can be boiled and eaten like rice, baked like pasta, or ground up to create a gluten-free, high-protein flour. The leaves are edible as well; steamed or sautéed, they taste similar to beet leaves, and are even more tender and mild than spinach leaves.
Our Everyday Quinoa Bowls are perfect meals for on-the-go, just add hot water!
In our changing world, sustainability has become increasingly more important to ensure a healthy environment for future generations.
The Quinoa plant requires little to no pesticide use because of a handy natural adaptation, called ‘saponins.’ Saponins are a naturally-occurring compound that coat the seeds while the plant grows. This dusty coating has a bitter taste, which naturally repels birds, insects, and other wildlife without any added pesticides. For this reason, Quinoa requires rinsing before eating; but don’t worry — all of our Quinoa Bowls come pre-rinsed.
Quinoa is also a wonderfully eco-friendly crop since it grows so easily. Originally suited to the high plains (Altiplano) of Bolivia, the plants have long been cultivated in a landscape prone to poor soil, high winds, low temperatures, and drought. While many crops need frequent watering and protection from pests, Quinoa thrives in harsh environments. It’s the ultimate low-maintenance food partner. Because the plant doesn't require heated greenhouses, extra irrigation, or pesticides, it’s more sustainable than many other plant protein sources.
In the 1970s, the benefits of the Andean Quinoa and the ease in which it grew amazed a group of American entrepreneurs. They brought some bags back to the United States (specifically to Boulder, CO!), where they began the Quinoa Corporation where they encouraged its popularity and cultivation in the U.S. The popularity of this little seed did spread, and now there's a Quinoa resurgence as more nutritionists share the benefits.
Quinoa is especially popular among Vegetarians and Vegans looking for plant-based alternatives to meat. One cooked cup contains roughly 8 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber. Those who are looking for gluten-free options enjoy it as well, since it's a filling substitute for pasta. Quinoa can also be an added nutrition boost to casseroles, other hot dishes, or even salads!
We wanted to provide more options for our backpacking meals while also making products that can be easily prepared in an office as a quick lunch or even for dinner at home. All of our products offer clean and quality Gluten-Free options. Quinoa, with its nutrient density and classification as a pseudo-grain, is a perfect solution! Quinoa is a great source of protein, fiber, antioxidants, and minerals like iron and magnesium.
We’ve rounded out our Quinoa servings by adding savory spices and freeze-dried vegetables to each Everyday Quinoa Bowl. We also boosted the protein with freeze-dried 100% Grass-Fed Beef, Free-Range Chicken, or Non-GMO Lentils for our Vegan options. These tasty meals have between 12 grams and 22 grams of protein, and are ready in only a few minutes. Plus, each Bowl comes with a packet of Extra Virgin Olive Oil for a dash of extra fat and flavor!
They're perfect for on the go - just add hot water!
These Quinoa Bowls are considered ‘Stage 4’ on the AIP reintroduction phase. Don’t worry, all of our AIP-friendly foods that follow the ‘Elimination’ phase aren’t going anywhere!
At Wild Zora, we’re proud of the fact that we listen to our customers. When we hear of a need for additional varieties in our lineup of high-protein savory meals with the clean ingredients you love, we do take that feedback into consideration.
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D3/K2 Supplements
Consider daily supplements of D3/K2 (in consultation with your Doctor) - our whole family takes daily D3 and K2 supplements. I find they help boost my immunity and, in those rare times when I do get sick, they help reduce the severity and duration of my illness. These supplements are relatively inexpensive and available in liquid and pill formats. Be sure to consult your Doctor before starting any supplement regimen.
Don’t Forget to Sweat
As a child, my whole family utilized our dry sauna at least twice a month. Even today I find a good sweat helps me relax while detoxing my body of harmful contaminants.
Start Your Day with Lemon and Honey
I learned this trick in Asia while Josh and I were visiting Hong Kong. Starting every day with a cup of warm water (warm water is better for digestion) with lemon and honey is a great way to rehydrate your body after a long night's sleep. I find the lemon adds flavor and additional Vitamin C while the honey boosts my energy.
Speaking of Sleep…
One of the best ways to boost your immune system is to get an adequate quality and quantity of sleep each night. I try to turn off all screens and do something enjoyable like playing backgammon with Josh at least an hour or two before bed each night. This calming ritual allows me to ease into a sound slumber most nights. Staying on a consistent sleep schedule - even on weekends - helps promote good quality sleep.
Enjoy this Soup(er) Snack
Especially in fall and winter, I enjoy both making (see this video for my family recipe) and eating soups. I find they warm my body and keep me hydrated. On days when I don’t have time to break out the Instant Pot, I grab a packet of Wild Zora soup (my personal favorites are the Tomato and Picante Beef) and have a healthy and convenient snack in less than a minute.
If you have any other tips our community may enjoy, please feel free to leave them in the comments section.
Wishing you a safe and healthy February!
Zora
]]>Our amazing ambassador Tracey from @wholedailylife came up with this recipe and we absolutely love it! It's such a simple way to make something new from our hot cereals that you can prepare the night before, and take with you in the morning!
All you have to do is add 2 TBSP of your favorite nut butter to your favorite Instant Grain-Free Hot Cereal, roll into a couple of balls, and refrigerate!
You have been sending us all the ways you like to add to your Hot Cereals, and we are loving it! Here are some great toppings to dress up your breakfast.
My kids are doing school from home now, and I don't always have the time to whip them up a lunch from scratch. But, I want to know that they are getting veggies and protein and not just snacking on carbs and sugar!
Here is a super simple way to make a 10-minute nutrient dense gluten-free lunch for two:
This is my GO TO meals for my kids at home. I get peace of mind knowing they are fueled with healthy food and it only takes a few minutes.
Our daughter Abbey was the inspiration for our Instant Healthy Soups! She loves soup and asked me if I could make her an instant option for when she got home from school.
Since these soups are a snack at 50 calories, we sometimes like to bulk them up with some other ingredients and toppings to make them a more substantial snack or meal.
Here are some of our favorite ways to make the soups our own:
While we are not exactly traveling the world right now, we are still taking road trips and potentially visiting family for the holidays. It can be so hard when you are visiting family to cater to your dietary needs. We like to always bring some of our Paleo Meals to Go in case we need a fast and easy option in a hotel or at someone else's home.
For these meals, you just need hot water and 10-minutes to rehydrate!
Our savory meals are:
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We love the convenience, the taste and price. But what are we really getting for our money?
That dollar you spend on your "value menu" item will get you plenty of food additives that improve its taste, texture, color and extend its shelf life. You might recall this article that shows fast food that never goes bad - it stays "fresh" for years.
Majority of these additives are labeled as GRAS - "generally recognized as safe" chemicals. So, what's the problem? The tests that decide whether or not the food additives have any harmful effects are generally conducted on animals, like mice or rats. If the chemical passes the lab tests that show it's not going to break down in your digestive system (or more accurately, a lab simulation of your digestive system) and it doesn't kill mice and rats, it's deemed safe for you to eat. And it stays innocent until proven guilty - that is until enough people develop serious enough health problems.
Let's take a look at some of the common additives.
A gelatinous substance that's used as a thickener or stabilizer, xanthan gum is almost impossible to escape. You will find it in sauces, dressings, baked goods, cheese-like food products, ice cream and even medicine.
Xanthan gum is a relatively benign additive if consumed in small doses. It's deemed safe if you consume less than 15 grams a day.
How much processed food would you have to eat to get 15 grams a day? Good question! FDA approved xanthan gum as a GRAS food additive but placed no limitation on how much can food contain. What's more, companies don't have to disclose how much xantham gum is in their product.
Potential side effects:
These chemicals are derived from fatty acids but they are classified as emulsifiers, not fats. Why does this matter? You have heard about the evil trans-fats, right? Mono- and diglycerides can contain trans fats but because they themselves are not considered fats, they don't have to be listed on the labels under that category. So here you are, happily munching on that burger and fries, thinking that at least the fast food company removed the really offensive trans-fats. There are 0 trans-fats on the label, yes, but they can still be lurking in your food.
This lovely sounding food additive brings you that nice salty flavor. Just like the infamous MSG, this flavor enhancer comes with a cost. Many people are sensitive to disodium inosinate and it is banned in foods made for babies due to possible negative side effects.
Possible side effects:
You can find convenient snacks without chemical additives. Wild Zora bars are one of them.
The truth is, there isn't much food in fast food. You get a lot of calories but very little nutrition from the value menu items. Here is what you are getting:
Even the savory fast food is loaded with added sugar - in form of molasses, corn syrup, maltodextrin, and dextrose. They will cause a spike in your blood sugar, followed by a crash. If you expose your body to this blood sugar rollercoaster on regular basis, you are on a road towards type 2 diabetes. As for the short-term impact, those processed foods are not satisfying and you will feel hungry again soon.
Fiber helps you feel fuller for a longer period of time. It's also crucial for healthy digestion - it helps food move around in your digestive system and it feeds the good bacteria in your gut. Fiber comes from fruits, veggies, and whole grains. Sadly, the most common vegetable in fast foods is iceberg lettuce (no, ketchup is not a vegetable!), the least nutritious vegetable known to mankind.
You have probably seen different articles claiming that different fast food restaurants use "meat" that's actually made with something else. The latest accusation was aimed at Subway and their chicken. While the fast food companies vehemently deny their meat isn't really meat, they can't hide the fact that the meat they serve us is full of antibiotics. To drive prices down, the fast food industry uses the cheapest, commercially raised meat. That means antibiotics, growth hormones and often horrible conditions for the animals. You won't get grass-fed beef with all its benefits for a dollar!
Frequent consumption of fast food will bring you a host of health problems. Food additives are prime suspects in development of cancer, dementia and Alzheimer's disease. We already mentioned type 2 diabetes. It can get quite expensive quickly. In 2013, The National Institute of Health estimated that
Mind you, this was four years ago and the cost went up since then. In the perfect world, those costs would be covered by health insurance but sadly, the state of the healthcare system in America doesn't allow for much optimism.
Relax. Wild Zora has you covered. No food additives, just food. Fiber and vitamins from organic veggies and fruits, plus the goodness of pasture raised, all natural meats. All in a small pack that fits in your pocket.
P.S.: Did you know real food is also really tasty?
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The article listed Wild Zora meat and veggie bars as some of the best snacks to have while skiing in Colorado.
Our bars are perfect for ski trips as they are light and easy to pack. We love the fact that they are soft even in cold temperatures. The balance of protein and carbs from vegetables and fruits give you great, sustained energy. They fit easily in your pocket and you can eat them during your lift ride. No need to waste even a minute of that perfect powder day! ;)
Which flavor is your favorite ski day go-to? Let us know in comments or tag us on social media!
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Paleo Diet is great for your heart if you do it right.
]]>What is Paleo diet?
Paleo or Paleolithic diet is based on the premise that we are genetically identical to the people of the Paleolithic era, the hunter-gatherers. This means our optimal diet should mimic theirs. That means you should only eat what you could hunt or pick and leave out foods that have to be farmed. Of course, your food should be clean and minimally processed.
Paleo diet has many enthusiastic followers and a fair number of skeptics. The main controversy comes from some dietary recommendations. Critics claim that by eliminating grains and legumes, you won't be getting enough fiber. Also, many nutritionists disagree with Paleo approach when to comes to fat.
Paleo is more than just a diet, it's a lifestyle. Movement is just as important as the foods you eat. Imagine a day in the life of a hunter-gatherer. No TV, no sofa, no recliner chair. Plenty of fresh air, sunshine and natural movement.
No, we are not making you hunt your own food. But consider spending more time outdoors. Let's face it, taking a long walk in the park or through a forest is a lot more enjoyable than walking on a treadmill. Plus, you will get something you can't get at any gym: vitamin D.
When your body doesn't have enough vitamin D, you are at a higher risk of developing heart issues. So, get out there and move. Your heart will thank you.
There is a myth surrounding the Paleo diet: many people think that it means becoming a devoted carnivore. That's a mistake. Paleo lifestyle encourages you to eat like an omnivore, with plenty of vegetables, some eggs and meat and a little bit of fruit, seeds, and nuts. Meat is a nutritionally dense food, so you can eat a relatively small serving and get plenty of nutrients; to feel full and satisfied, fill up of on a variety of vegetables.
The Paleo Mom, a wonderful site full of helpful tips, put together a Paleo food pyramid:
Vegetables are not only full of vitamins and minerals your body needs to thrive but they are also an important source of fiber. A long-term low-fiber diet is associated with a higher risk of heart attack. So, if you eliminate high-fiber foods like grains and legumes from your diet, you MUST eat a lot of vegetables.
When looking for savory Paleo snacks, go beyond jerky, and reach for a meat and veggie bar instead.
One indisputable benefit of Paleo diet is the elimination of highly processed food. Even the biggest Paleo skeptics admit this is the step in the right direction. If you quit drinking soda and eating chemical-laden fast food, you will make your heart happy.
The mainstream nutritionists deem saturated fat to be the devil incarnate and want you to avoid it at all cost. The Paleo nutritionists will tell you that added sugar, gluten, and legumes are what lies between you and your optimal health and some saturated fats, like lard or coconut oil are fine.
Look back at that food pyramid. Paleo diet doesn't mean you will gorge on bacon fried in lard. If you are concerned about your fat consumption, go for natural, whole sources. It's OK to eat a piece of fatty meat, as long as it is a small piece and you eat plenty of veggies with it. Just use common sense, and you will be fine.
One big part of Paleo lifestyle is stress management. Your health is the most important thing you have. Sadly, in today's society, we see stress as a necessary part of success. Excessive stress is known to cause heart attacks. No matter how healthy you eat, if you are under a lot of stress for a prolonged time, your heart is in danger.
Spending time outdoors is an important part of Paleo lifestyle and it's also an excellent way to de-stress. So, whether or not you are a Paleo enthusiast, do your heart a favor: go for a hike, a walk, or a bike ride. Smell the fresh air and enjoy the sunshine.
How do you keep your heart healthy? Let us know in comments!
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Zora, our founder, has always felt an immense gratitude for the animals that provide her and her family with food. As a child, she grew up on a family-owned farm where animals were cared for with the knowledge that someday, they would provide sustenance for the entire family: parents, grandparents, cousins, siblings. Every part of the animal was used, both out of respect for the animal and the sense that food—and the animals the meat came from—should never be taken for granted.
Through these formative experiences, Zora maintains a sense of connection and respect for all of the animals that go into Wild Zora products. Because of this, she will always find high-quality and responsibly-sourced ingredients for all of our products. We want you to feel happy and satisfied about the food you choose to put into your body and the snacks and meals you give to your family and friends.
Zora's promise:
We currently receive all of our Chicken from a family-owned farm in California that is committed to sustainable, humane treatment of their birds. This farm is part of several animal welfare certifications, including: the Global Animal Partnership, Certified Humane Raised and Handled, and they meet standards put forth by The Better Chicken Commitment.
The Chicken that we use in our products is Free-Range and antibiotic-free, and is rated as Step 3 through the Global Animal Partnership (GAP). Our chickens have free movement to an outdoor plot that includes dirt and shade, and indoors, a naturally-lit environment. Air quality is monitored daily inside the open-sided barns. The birds also have sources of enrichment, which can include hanging branches to forage within and bales of hay on which to perch, burrow, and investigate.
Our Free-Range Chickens, with their required outdoor access, have a varied diet of insects, grubs, and worms that supplements their food and provides the birds with additional nutrients. There’s also a lot of entertainment to be had while digging snacks out of the ground!
For more information about GAP Step 3, visit the Global Animal Partnership’s page HERE.
The USDA’s technical definition of “Free-Range” is that birds must have either outdoor access, or access to the outdoors. Some Chicken farms take this terminology quite literally to the detriment of the animals. For example, a barn could have a hole in the side just large enough for chickens to stick their heads through, but not large enough to physically move their bodies outside. Within this strict definition, the birds could be considered “Free-Range” because they do, technically, have access to the outdoors.
At Wild Zora, we want more for our Chickens.
We believe all of the animals that provide our meals deserve to be treated with respect. By sourcing our Chicken meat through companies that pledge to be Free-Range, antibiotic-free, and wholly humane, we can ensure that our products maintain the high quality and sustainability you’ve come to expect from all of our food!
Try our Chicken products HERE
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It matters what goes into our Apple Pork Meat & Veggie Bars
]]>Made with apple, pork, kale, parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme.
By avoiding use of antibiotics, farmers have to put extra effort into caring for the health and wellness of their animals. They cannot use antibiotics as a quick fix when an animal gets sick, so they must do everything they can to prevent sickness in the first place.
The best way to prevent sickness and need for antibiotics when raising pigs is caring for them properly with disease prevention, ventilation, sanitation, and clean bedding. By requiring that the pork we source is 100% antibiotic free, it helps ensure that the pigs were humanely cared for during their lives.
When animals are given antibiotics frequently, the bacterias that are causing the illnesses can start to become immune or resistant to the antibiotics. This means that even when antibiotics are given, bacteria can still be left behind in the meat we end up eating. Minimizing the use of antibiotics helps prevent these resistant bacteria from proliferating.
Conventionally farmed pigs are often given cheap feed made of animal-byproducts. These low-quality foods can cause intestinal issues or other illnesses in the pigs. By requiring a 100% vegetarian diet for the pigs we can ensure that they are being fed the highest quality diet that will keep them healthy and happy.
It just makes sense that pork that is raised without antibiotics or additives and is minimally processed has a better taste and texture than traditionally raised pork. Many agree that antibiotic-free pork leads to better fat development and better tasting meat overall. If you have the choice, why wouldn’t you choose products with more flavorful meats?
Our goal at Wild Zora is to provide high-quality, delicious snack and meal options that everyone can enjoy at home and on the go. We want to provide our customers with more flavorful, nutritious, and easier meal options than ever before.
]]>Grass-fed cows are free to roam large open pastures as opposed to conventionally farmed cattle which are often confined in tiny feedlots. The lower amount of forced interaction between the cattle means antibiotics are needed much less frequently. At Wild Zora, we only use beef in our products that is guaranteed to be 100% antibiotic free.
Grass-Fed Means Healthier Meat
All beef is NOT created equal when it comes to nutrition. Studies have shown that grass-fed beef has several times the amount of Omega-3 Fatty Acids than grain-fed beef. Grass-fed beef is also lower in saturated fat and higher in vitamin E, vitamin A, and many other beneficial antioxidants!
Better For The Environment
Feedlot or “factory-farmed” cattle operations can contribute to water pollution, poor air quality, soil erosion, and fossil-fuel consumption. Because grass-fed cattle have space to graze and eat what is available in nature, raising them does not require large quantities of farmed foods like grain-fed cattle does. The cows’ hooves consistently hitting the ground in the pastures also push nutrients into the soil and can eliminate the need for fertilizers or chemicals.
No Grain ‘Finishing’
Because grass-fed beef is naturally leaner and has less marbling than traditional beef, oftentimes cows are “grain-finished”. This means they live most of their lives in an open pasture and then are placed on a feedlot to consume cheap, fattening grain. 100% grass-fed beef is never finished with grain and the cattle actually live their entire lives on an open pasture.
Gives Cows Best Lives Possible
In the words of Zora, “we wanted to make sure the cow only has one bad day,” and that the one bad day is as humane as possible. The diet of feedlot cattle is often supplemented with corn, soy, or other additives which can cause digestive issues that require medications. The confined, crowded space also means the cattle rarely have enough space to lay down in a clean area and that the spread of illnesses happens more quickly.
Our goal at Wild Zora is to provide high-quality, delicious snack and meal options that everyone can enjoy at home and on the go. We want to provide our customers with more flavorful, nutritious, and easier meal options than ever before.
Our products are made only with real food and no preservatives, which means they are subject to the elements during the shipping process. Regardless, we want everyone who purchases Wild Zora products to be happy with their decision to do so. Give our products a try and if you aren't satisfied, contact us within 30 days and we’ll make it right.
]]>The past few years, I’ve been making my own! This ‘sugar’ cookie recipe uses our AIP Classic Grain-Free Hot Cereal. It has a base of Tiger Nut Flour, which is great for baking, and the shredded coconut adds a wonderful texture and keeps these cookies soft. Tiger Nuts aren’t a nut at all; they’re actually a delicious prebiotic superfood tuber, and they provide extra protein and nutrition.
These cookies are great to decorate with friends and family. At our annual office holiday party, we always bring a few batches so all of our employees can decorate their own!
I hope you enjoy these cookies. Please leave me any comments below or email me your creations to zora@wildzora.com. I’d love to see what you make!
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As the mornings get darker and the leaves get crunchier it can only mean one thing – fall is here. Some may think that with fall comes cooler weather and a limited selection of vegetables and fruits. However, I beg to differ. Now, I can’t control the cooler temperatures but I can give a few suggestions on how to keep your plates full of colorful and healthy ingredients (without spending too much).
Seasonal food is fresher, tastier, and more nutritious – and did I mention tastier? It’s true. Studies have shown that fruits and vegetables contain more nutrients when allowed to ripen naturally on their parent plant. Perfect timing for that pesky cold and flu season!
In addition, eating seasonally is done even better when you purchase directly from your community. By shopping at your local farmer’s market or CSA you will not only positively impact your health but will support your community and other local businesses.
Fall is an especially good time to buy seasonal produce because they are much less expensive than a lot of the summer produce we are used to, and they are more "countertop stable". You can keep apples, beets, and squash around for over a week without worry. And, if your apples go a little overripe, throw them in a pie!
Eating seasonally does not have to be hard, especially when fall has so much to offer. Here are a few of my favorite fall vegetables and fruits. Bonus, these are all paleo and AIP friendly!
First up, is a winter squash that is fall harvested and goes by the name of butternut squash. This powerhouse fruit can help boost your immune system – cough, cough cold season is on its way. Plus, it can be prepared in SO many ways that are all unique and delicious. It can be savory or sweet, and fills out any meal with tons of nutrients and richness.
Benefits:
One of my favorite ways to prepare butternut squash is simply roasting it with a dash of turmeric and garlic.
Other methods of preparing:Next on my list is a delicious, leafy green with a rainbow assortment of stem colors that make it as pleasing on the plate as it is to the palate (perfect for stepping up your plating game). Of course, I am talking about rainbow chard! You can enjoy it raw or sauteed, and it is a great way to switch up your dark, leafy greens. Because some days, you just can’t eat any more spinach.
Benefits:When cooking chard, simple is better. One of the best ways I’ve found to enjoy it is to quickly wilt it over medium-high heat in olive oil, garlic, fresh ginger, and red onion.
Other methods of preparing:
Now, let’s talk beets. I know I'm biased having grown up in Eastern Europe, but these beautiful, bodacious, root vegetables are really good for you and can be SO tasty if prepared right. Some people love them and some people loathe them. If you happen to dislike beets, I am personally asking you to give them another try. The betalain in beets can reduce inflammation and as an extra bonus, they are high in fiber!
Benefits:
One of my favorite ways to make beets is to boil them and cube them to enjoy in arugula salads. Before you leave from that triggering word “boiling”, wait! The trick to making boiled beets taste great is to SEASON properly once they are tender. Take them out of the water, drain them, and generously season with sea salt and pepper.
I love beets so much, that we have a new product with tons of beet goodness in it coming out soon (November 2019)!
Other methods of preparing:
Last but not least, apples. You say it, your mom said it, and her mom said it too, “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” and there's a good reason for that. Plus, they are unbelievably cheap this time of year. You can even head to the orchard with your friends and family, and pick a bunch of your own! Activities that include snacking are a personal favorite.
Benefits
The best part, you can have an apple on-the-go or make a warm, ooey-gooey dessert on one of those extra crisp fall afternoons.
Other ways to make it
Want a balanced snack with Apple in it that is also AIP? Check out our Apple Pork Meat & Veggie Bar!
Have other seasonal ingredients you love? Let us know in the comments below!
Love, meat & veggies,
Zora Tabin (Founder, Mom & Healthy Snack Enthusiast)
]]>Don't forget to take proteins on your hiking trip!
Here are 3 reasons reasons why you should prioritize protein on any hike or camping trip:
1. The enzymes in protein help regulate your metabolism. It keeps your adventure battery charged
2. Protein repairs your sore muscles after a long day of outdoor fun
3. Your immune system is strengthened with the boost in white blood cell growth that proteins give your body
So if you need a great tasting, easy meal to bring out on the trail, grab a couple of our high-protein Paleo Meals To Go! 😁
]]>You don't have to settle for bland snacks and meals anymore!
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When I heard customers ask for AIP options and learned of the struggles they face with the elimination phase, I started to research about how we could help. ❤️
The AIP diet can help to reduce stomach inflammation, help those with autoimmune diseases with their symptoms, and so much more which is great!
However, finding AIP-compliant products can be so tricky, so that’s why we have made it our goal to help provide great options..from snacks to meals! 🍽
-Zora
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Is it actually fall if you’re not eating or drinking something that has “spice” in the name? Of course not.
But when you’re on the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) Diet, sometimes that sweet tradition can feel out of reach. Almost everything sitting on the shelves contains extra sugars, preservatives, grains, or a bunch of bad additives that can increase inflammation.
That’s why, we’d love to share some AIP-friendly recipes with you so you can also join in the Halloween fun!
]]>A. I most certainly would. It was impossible to find snacks in the grocery stores that didn’t contain oodles of sugar and carbs. The kids would get hungry whilst hiking and we would give them these bars that would more often than not contain 300 calories or more. What we didn’t understand was why the kids would be hungry again 30 minutes later.
It turns out that when one eats carbs and sugars, insulin levels shoot up and your blood sugar crashes down soon after which means you get hungry. What we were eating at home; meat, veggies and a little fruit, actually acts as a better snack and keeps you full for longer. But how many snacks contain meat, veggies and fruit? This is how we started out.
A. We really believe that people should only eat food and that food should only contain food! Literally every product that we have only contains ingredients that grow in or on the ground. This is first and foremost for us.
We believe in balance, so we don’t tend to follow every new trend that surfaces from the increasingly complex world of nutrition. Some things always remain true, so we never use processed sugar, chemicals or preservatives, and our meat will never contain hormones or antibiotics – that would go against our values. Our products are clean and, in fact, having a “clean label” is probably our principal value.
A. The quality of our ingredients is a major differentiating point. We use non-GMO & organic ingredients, free-range meat, and grass-fed beef, etc. We like to see that the animals have been raised in a healthy, sustainable and humane way, and we do visit the farms from which we source our products.
A. Many company founders we’ve talked-to seem to think their lives would be better if they were no longer working, so they are looking for an exit strategy. We, on the other hand, LOVE what we do – helping people live healthier and happier lives – and so we hope we can keep doing this for a long time to come!
]]>Well, think again...
Eating seasonally during fall is easy!
As the mornings get darker and the leaves get crunchier it can only mean one thing, fall is here.
Some may think that with fall comes cooler weather and a limited selection of vegetables and fruits. However, I beg to differ.
Now, I can’t control the cooler temperatures but I can give a few suggestions on how to keep your plates full of colorful and healthy meals (without spending too much).
One of my favorite recipes to make for the cooler seasons of fall is roasted butternut squash soup… It has its own scrumptious caramelized flavor and brims with delicious fall flavors!
Want to get the recipe?
Click the link below to check it out along with my other favorite fall vegetables and fruits:
]]>There are many great travel resources and local guides, here are some of our favorites!
Wherever you may roam and however you may get there, the journey is an important part of the process too. Eating well-rounded, nutritious foods are a great way to stay in the moment throughout your adventures without getting hangry!
Our Quinoa Bowls, Paleo Meals and Bars, and more of our best selling foods are all made with quality ingredients packed with nutrients (& delicious spices!) so you can keep going without worrying about your next meal - it's in your backpack!
While on-the-go, it's helpful to know how to source essentials. If you don't have a JetBoil or other gadget, you may think you're without access to hot water, but think again! In this modern day and age, there's a Starbucks on every corner - try asking them for just hot water (PS: it's free!)... There's also the good ol' fashioned way of heating water.
Visit our blog for more informational posts on Outdoor Essentials, the superfood Quinoa, Grass-Fed Beef, and more! Feel free to contact us with any questions :)
While I was a kid growing up in the Czech Republic, my grandparents had a farm with chickens, pigs, and even geese. I've written about some of these memories before in my other blogs, especially about how it influenced my attitudes toward food, but in this blog, I wanted to share one of my favorite recipes from my childhood. My Grandmother used to make a savory wholesome soup from a chicken they would pick out of the coop and with the vegetables they had grown in their back garden.
The recipe that I've always known uses chicken feet. I know that a lot of people are grossed out by chicken feet, but if you can find them in your local co-op, they are well worth it! They are packed with collagen, which is an incredible benefit to your skin. They're also high in calcium, as well as glucosamine and chondroitin - so your bones and your joints can benefit. The apple cider vinegar in this recipe helps to pull the nutrients from the chicken bones, and has always felt great in my stomach. All around, this is a warm, wholesome soup that's good for your entire body.
These days, I make my Grandma's Chicken Soup using my Instant Pot instead of a big stock pot on the stove. It still tastes just like I remember, though!
When the broth is done, strain it carefully. Discard the carrots, onion, celery, parsnip, and bones from the broth, then add the sea salt.
At this point, you can either keep it as is to have a savory bone broth perfect for sipping on cold days, or you can finish the soup with the following steps:
I love to have this soup with potatoes (check out my Family Potato Salad recipe HERE) as well as some grilled seasonal vegetables.
If you decide to make this Chicken Soup, please leave me any comments below or email me your creations to zora@wildzora.com. I’d love to see what you make!
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A Czech friend of mine and I have a tradition here in Colorado to get together with families to prepare our absolute best potato salad. The kids usually play, our husbands drink and play backgammon, and the two of us are hard at work.
It is best to cook the potatoes, carrots, parsnips and celeriac root a day before because of the large quantities used and how long each vegetable takes. We usually divide prep work among us the day before, so we arrive with the veggies already cooked and ready to be combined.
We do not really use a recipe nor do we measure anything, which means that there is a lot of tasting during this process. It also tends to change a little every year, and from Christmas to Christmas, it’s always unique! We use such large quantities of everything in order to make as much as possible so we do not have to cook again. By the end of Christmas time, nobody wants to see potato salad anymore, but everyone is looking forward to it again in a year. :-)
Yields 16-24 servings
All these vegetables are boiled a day ahead in water in a large stock pot. Cook them until they are soft enough that a fork can go into them easily, but not so long that they become mush. I typically cook these the day before because there are so many, and I only have one pot large enough for each type of vegetable! You could do this all in one day, but who has that much time during the holidays?
The day after cooking the vegetables:
Add:
Mix all of the above well, but make sure not to over mix it so it does not turn into a mush.
There is a lot of tasting that goes into getting it just right. After we’re happy with it, we divide the whole amount between both families.
Traditionally this potato salad is served with fried carp and fish soup for Christmas dinner on the 24th of December, but you can enjoy it as a side for any of your favorite holiday meals.
I hope you enjoy this potato salad! Please leave me any comments below or email me your creations to zora@wildzora.com. I’d love to see what you make!
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Yields: 4-8 servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients:
Instructions:
I leave the orange slices in to continue adding flavor as the sauce cools but you could certainly remove them if you prefer a mild orange flavor. I love this recipe, especially for the holidays because it could not be easier and tastes best when made 1-2 days in advance!
Just as easy, if not easier, is my AIP Cauliflower Gravy made with my AIP Mushroom Beef Soup!
Yields: 8 servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
Instructions:
The rich, and savory Wild Zora Mushroom Beef Soups make this recipe SO easy! Of course, you could use any flour or starch to make this gravy, but I love using cauliflower because I can sneak in added fiber and nutrients and my kids never notice a difference!
This is my go-to mashed potato recipe, regardless of the season! It's written as a Paleo recipe but the AIP substitutions are super easy! I use duck fat and I swear it taste better than with butter.
Find her recipe here!
Depending on what meat I'm making, I will switch between the KC Naturals Mastodon Rub, which is smokey and slightly sweet- perfect for pork & beef. If I'm making my holiday turkey, I tend to like more savory, herb-forward flavors so I combine Primal Palate's Everyday AIP Garlic & Herb(plus extra sage) with either Duck or Chicken Fat and massage it under the skin of my turkey. I wrap it in plastic wrap and leave it in my fridge overnight before roasting.
I recently posted these for Halloween but luckily, they are amazing any time of year! For Thanksgiving & Christmas, I use festive cookie cutters and frost them with my AIP Buttercream.
I list some methods of natural food coloring in my recipe but if you're making these for the holidays; I like using spinach or matcha (if you drink caffeine) for green, beetroot powder or pomegranate for a pinkish red, purple cabbage for a deep blue.
Find my recipe here!
I hope you enjoy these easy, naturally Gluten-Free, Paleo, Auto-Immune Protocol friendly recipes! Happiest of Holidays to you and yours!
]]>Zora, our founder, has always felt an immense gratitude for the animals that provide her and her family with food. As a child, she grew up on a family-owned farm where animals were cared for with the knowledge that someday, they would provide sustenance for the entire family: parents, grandparents, cousins, siblings. Every part of the animal was used, both out of respect for the animal and the sense that food—and the animals the meat came from—should never be taken for granted.
Through these formative experiences, Zora maintains a sense of connection and respect for all of the animals that go into Wild Zora products. Because of this, she will always find high-quality and responsibly-sourced ingredients for all of our products. We want you to feel happy and satisfied about the food you choose to put into your body and the snacks and meals you give to your family and friends.
Zora's promise:
Currently, Wild Zora sources our Lamb from Australian farmers. These farmers shepherd large herds that roam and graze freely in open pastures.
Our Lamb is, and always will be, antibiotic- and hormone-free. The farms that supply our meat are committed to sustainable raising of their flocks, as well as humane treatment of all of their animals. These farms must be accredited through third parties and are audited frequently to make sure that they are following all of the required standards.
By only sourcing antibiotic-free Lamb in our products, we can be certain that the sheep were cared for well enough that antibiotics were never even needed. The farmers who provide our Lamb must create a healthy, safe environment for their animals without resorting to shortcuts offered by over-medicating.
Our Lamb must also meet or exceed the standards of Meat Standards Australia (MSA), which include requirements around transportation, handling, feeding, and living conditions. The sheep are pasture-raised and allowed to freely roam and graze over a natural landscape that includes a variety of grasses, and when it is time for handling and processing, they must be treated in such a way that reduces animal stress as much as possible.
Our farmers not only uphold standards of humane treatment, but they also ensure sustainability on the lands where the sheep graze. In order to be part of the group that provides us with our Lamb, farms need to be actively seeking to increase their sustainability. Some of these processes include investing in renewable energy, planting vegetation to encourage biodiversity, and adopting no-till farming methods to avoid topsoil erosion.
Sustainably- and humanely-raised meat is better for the environment and better for the animals, and when you know that you’re eating higher quality food, you feel good. We know that you care about what you eat, and by sourcing our Lamb from small, family-owned farms that hold animal welfare and safety to the highest standards, we will always provide great-tasting products with clean ingredients!
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Zora, our founder, has always felt an immense gratitude for the animals that provide her and her family with food. As a child, she grew up on a family-owned farm where animals were cared for with the knowledge that someday, they would provide sustenance for the entire family: parents, grandparents, cousins, siblings. Every part of the animal was used, both out of respect for the animal and the sense that food—and the animals the meat came from—should never be taken for granted.
Through these formative experiences, Zora maintains a sense of connection and respect for all of the animals that go into Wild Zora products. Because of this, she will always find high-quality and responsibly-sourced ingredients for all of our products. We want you to feel happy and satisfied about the food you choose to put into your body and the snacks and meals you give to your family and friends.
Zora's promise:
Currently, the Turkey in our products comes from an independent, family-owned Turkey farm in Minnesota. This farm takes pride in their Free-Range, humanely raised Turkeys: the birds are never given artificial growth hormones or antibiotics, and during the warmer months, they are rotated through large, lush pastures.
Our Turkey meat is, and always will be, Free-Range. As soon as they are old enough and can safely do so, Turkeys are given free access to open pastures with grass, shade, and fresh air unless the weather is hazardous to their health. Rotating the birds through pastures allows them fresh grass, and it creates a sustainable cycle for the foliage to return between rotations.
By requiring that all of the Turkey in our products must be antibiotic-free, we can be certain that the birds were cared for well enough that antibiotics were not required as a shortcut for inadequate living conditions. Our Turkey providers must create a safe, humane facility that results in healthy animals.
Our Turkeys are also required to be processed humanely by a USDA-certified facility, and there are frequent audits by third-parties to ensure that the processing centers adhere to animal welfare guidelines.
Many of our smaller farms and meat suppliers are not Global Animal Partnership (GAP) certified. These certifications are programs in which a farm applies and pays a large fee, and once it is approved under the standards, the certification denotes that the farm has followed specific animal welfare guidelines. The basic fact is that even if the smaller farms where we source our meat follow all of the principles put forth by the GAP, they might not be able to afford the certification.
Before we agree to source meat from our Turkey farmers, we make sure that their standards of naturally raised, humanely treated birds align with our own standards
We believe that the best food comes from the best sources, and we know that there can be no substitute for sustainable and humane animal husbandry. We prefer to support small, family-owned businesses in order to help keep restorative farms in business for many years to come. When you know the animals that are in your food have been treated humanely, the food will not only be better for you, it will taste better as well!
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Zora, our founder, has always felt an immense gratitude for the animals that provide her and her family with food. As a child, she grew up on a family-owned farm where animals were cared for with the knowledge that someday, they would provide sustenance for the entire family: parents, grandparents, cousins, siblings. Every part of the animal was used, both out of respect for the animal and the sense that food—and the animals the meat came from—should never be taken for granted.
Through these formative experiences, Zora maintains a sense of connection and respect for all of the animals that go into Wild Zora products. Because of this, she will always find high-quality and responsibly-sourced ingredients for all of our products. We want you to feel happy and satisfied about the food you choose to put into your body and the snacks and meals you give to your family and friends.
Zora's promise:
100% Grass-Fed Beef is the term used for cattle that have lived their entire lives roaming and grazing off the land. These cattle have meat that is leaner and less marbled than feedlot-fed cattle.
In order to make Beef taste more like the fatty standard of feedlot cattle, sometimes cattle are “Grain-Finished,” which adds fat and marbling to the meat. A Grain-Finished Beef label means that although the cattle live the majority of their lives in open pasture, they are placed on a feedlot and ‘finished’ on a fattening diet of cheap, high-energy grain.
With our 100% Grass-Fed Beef, you can be certain that cattle have lived their entire lives on pastures and have been ‘finished’ with nothing but fresh grazing and open spaces.
Currently, Wild Zora sources our 100% Grass-Fed Beef from a collective of small family ranches in the Western United States. These ranchers all have high standards of sustainability and animal welfare for their cattle.
Beef is Beef, right? It’s often thought that no matter how you cut it, meat from cattle provides the same nutrition whether the cows graze on grass or grain.
That’s simply not true! There has been significant research showing that 100% Grass-Fed Beef provides several times the amount of Omega-3 Fatty Acids when compared to Grain-Fed Beef. 100% Grass-Fed has a lower fat content, since cattle given fatty grains with a feedlot diet have meat that contains higher amounts of saturated fat. It makes sense, too: lean cows that are able to run across large pastures make leaner meat. 100% Grass-Fed Beef is also higher in Vitamins A, E, and other antioxidants!
Despite the name, 100% Grass-Fed doesn't mean the animals just eat grass. Left to pick their own food, the cattle will supplement their grazing with foraged nuts, seeds, and local, natural vegetation. This variety in diet is not only healthier, it provides the cattle—and those who eat their Beef—with Alpha-Linolenic Acid (ALA), an important Omega-3 acid. Additionally, the varied diet of 100% Grass-Fed Beef contributes to rich, unique flavors that will vary from farm to farm.
Life on a feedlot is grueling. Cattle are fed diets supplemented with corn, soy, and other additives, which can be tough on digestive systems and can create gut health issues that require medications to treat. Cramped conditions in feedlots rarely provide adequate space for the animals to lie down on clean surfaces, and the close quarters accelerate the spread of disease, which typically requires antibiotics.
100% Grass-Fed Beef standards, meanwhile, give cattle a greater variety in their diet, large pastures to spread out, and natural materials on which to stand. Since there is less forced interaction between cattle, the need for antibiotics is either greatly lessened or entirely unnecessary; in fact, the farmers who provide our Beef are always committed to not using any antibiotics.
Before deciding on where they would source their Beef, Zora and Josh traveled to different locations so they could meet the farmers and see the animals in person. During these trips, they visited the slaughterhouses as well. As Zora said, “We wanted to make sure the cow only has one bad day.” By fully researching processing facilities, we can make sure that the cattle in our products have experienced “one bad day” that was as humane as possible.
Organic Beef might sound appealing, but it doesn’t actually determine how the animals lived, only what food they were given. Cattle could dine on the finest Organic grain while still standing packed nose-to-tail in a feedlot.
There’s no getting around it—there are no cows without cow pies. The massive amounts of concentrated waste generated by feedlots cause olfactory issues for neighboring residents and require heavy machinery to clean. Meanwhile, free-roaming cattle distribute fertilizer over large swaths of land. (And if a cow pie drops without anyone around to smell it, does it really even smell?)
Grain-Fed cattle require huge quantities of cultivated food, the harvesting of which can be damaging to the environment. 100% Grass-Fed cattle eat what already exists in nature, and given so much access to land, farmers can rotate them through fertilizer-free and chemical-free pastures to avoid overgrazing. In addition, the impact of hooves pushing nutrients into the ground naturally rejuvenates the soil without the aid of chemicals or fertilizers.
We use 100% Grass-Fed Grass Finished Beef because it means happier cattle, a happier planet, and a happier you.
Try our Beef products HERE
]]>Zora, our founder, has always felt an immense gratitude for the animals that provide her and her family with food. As a child, she grew up on a family-owned farm where animals were cared for with the knowledge that someday, they would provide sustenance for the entire family: parents, grandparents, cousins, siblings. Every part of the animal was used, both out of respect for the animal and the sense that food—and the animals the meat came from—should never be taken for granted.
Through these formative experiences, Zora maintains a sense of connection and respect for all of the animals that go into Wild Zora products. Because of this, she will always find high-quality and responsibly-sourced ingredients for all of our products. We want you to feel happy and satisfied about the food you choose to put into your body and the snacks and meals you give to your family and friends.
Zora's promise:
Currently, we source our pork from a family-owned company supported by a collective of farmers based out of Midwest and Western states. These farmers are committed to humane and sustainable treatment of all of their pigs, and will never use antibiotics or hormones on their animals.
Our Pork is, and always will be, antibiotic-free and all-natural. We work with suppliers that are focused on animal welfare and humane treatment, and through this, we can be certain that our Pork holds up to the taste and quality you expect from our products.
The farms that provide our Pork are committed to humane treatment of all of their animals, and follow rigorous protocols with how the animals are handled, transported, and cared for. These protocols include lengthy requirements for how the pigs are treated from birth to processing, and they are checked by a third party.
By requiring that all of our Pork must be antibiotic-free, we can be certain that the animals were cared for well enough that antibiotics were not required as a shortcut for inadequate living environments. Our farms heighten the living conditions of their pigs through disease-resistant buildings that maintain standards of ventilation, sanitation, and bedding. By keeping the pigs on 100% vegetarian diets, the animals are never fed cheap food created out of low-quality animal byproducts, which can cause illness or intestinal distress.
Our Pork is all-natural, and as such cannot contain any additives, preservatives, or colors, and must be minimally processed.
Many of our smaller farms and meat suppliers are not Global Animal Partnership (GAP) certified. These certifications are programs in which a farm applies and pays a large fee, and once it is approved under the standards, the certification denotes that the farm has followed specific animal welfare guidelines. The basic fact is that even if the smaller farms where we source our meat follow all of the principles put forth by the GAP, they might not be able to afford the certification.
Before we agree to source meat from our Pork farmers, we make sure that their standards of naturally raised, humanely treated pigs align with our own.
At Wild Zora, we believe that high quality food matters to your own health, the health of your loved ones, and the health of the planet. We source our Pork through farms that are committed to sustainability and responsibility while providing safe, healthy, humane environments for their pigs. This means we will always make sure to provide great tasting snacks with clean ingredients!
Is it actually Fall if you’re not eating or drinking something that has “spice” in the name? Of course not. It’s one of the many seasonal traditions, just like raking leaves, layering jackets, and sipping your favorite tea.
But when you’re on the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) Diet, sometimes that sweet tradition can feel out of reach. Almost everything sitting on the shelves contains extra sugars, preservatives, grains, or a bunch of bad additives that can increase inflammation.
I make this recipe using our AIP Classic Grain-Free Hot Cereal. It has a base of Tiger Nut Flour, which is great for baking, and the coconut adds a wonderful texture! Tiger Nuts aren’t a nut at all; they’re actually a delicious prebiotic superfood tuber. They keep this recipe gluten-free, dairy-free, egg-free, and nut-free - while still being flavorful! Cookies that are tasty, AIP Paleo and provide lasting energy? It’s not too good to be true, I promise. :)
Despite being older, my kids still love decorating their cookies, so I created naturally-colored AIP frosting. Abby made the cute little ghosts and Adriane and I decorated the candy corns. As you can imagine, we didn’t have any cookies left, but if you do, be sure to freeze them in a single-layer so they don’t stick together!
Yields: 8 cookies
Prep Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients:
Instructions for the cookies:
Ingredients:
Instructions:
If you’ve ever baked AIP anything before, you know it can be a little tricky to get the texture right so I have a few tips that will hopefully help!
I found that the AIP frosting gave these cookies a really nice soft-baked texture. And it actually tasted like buttercream! I loved being able to enjoy that melt-in-your-mouth frosting texture again. I used turmeric and ginger as natural food coloring because they pair really well with the spices in the cookies. I’ve also read that goji berries work great as a natural orange food color. You could simply mix the goji berry orange with additional white frosting to achieve yellow.
One tricky thing about the turmeric is that using too much can cause the fat in the frosting to separate, so I wouldn’t recommend using more than ¼ tsp. If you plan to make more orange frosting, I would try the goji berry method which can be found here: Natural Food Coloring.
I personally like my sweets to have the right balance with salt but I know for some it can be too much. I recommend trying the cookie dough first and if that feels salty enough for your liking, I would omit it from the frosting.
Also, I know from personal experience that it’s easy to get tired of coconut on AIP so if you’re looking for a coconut-free version, you could easily substitute tiger nut flour or additional cassava flour for the AIP Classic cereal.
For the icing, I recommend substituting coconut milk with additional palm shortening.
I hope you will enjoy these. Please leave me any comments below or email me your creations to zora@wildzora.com
Love, Zora
Interested in our AIP Classic Cereal by itself?
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I’ve spent more nights sleeping in a tent than I could possibly ever count – and for that I am so grateful. Sleeping outdoors, under the stars, beats a roof any day of the year for me. It really doesn’t matter whether I am, next to a silty and roaring desert river, hunkered down among the rocks with the wind blasting me on a Patagonian peak, watching the sun make endless circles over the Antarctic ice field, or just lying under the cottonwoods in my backyard in Colorado. I will choose outside every single time.
I work as a mountain guide and river guide because my life mission is to help other people experience the serenity of nature and the strength we all can find in the wilderness. So, although dear reader, you may not be on the other end of my climbing rope (although we could arrange that if you want), or in my raft slipping through the deep canyons of the desert, let me see if I can’t help you get outside too.
They say that mentors are one of the biggest obstacles to people getting outdoors. After all, how do you begin? I am here to give you a crash course (and I mean really abbreviated in the grand scheme of things) on how to begin.
Personally, I start by dreaming up a place I want to go. Mountain lake? Canyon country? Rolling plains? Then I hop onto my computer and search for a place that looks appealing (and accessible to me).
Once you’ve got those things answered, you’re ready to start packing. This is both an exciting, and crucial step.
The key to dressing yourself is to have a number of versatile and light layers. When you put all of them on, you’ll be warm. You also need to make sure you can stay dry. Getting wet can be very dangerous in the back country. No cotton is a pretty firm rule. We backcountry guides call it “killer cotton” because whether it is rain or sweat, it will suck your body heat and make you cold. That’s bad. So, invest in some wool (which I like because it doesn’t get as smelly), or quick dry material.
Finally, give all your gear a test run before taking it out on a big mission. It’s the worst when you discover your backpack rubs your shoulders raw, or you have no idea how your water system works. Test everything beforehand. Lastly, I make a packing list every time I go out. I’ve packed my bag literally thousands of times, but I still make a list and check it. I prefer the tedium of a list than arriving at the trailhead and finding out that I forgot my hiking boots or socks. No bueno. I also like to take notes each trip so that I know what worked well and what I need to adjust for next time. That way I can refine my systems.
Once you’re dialed you’ll be stoked. Even dialed, I encourage the list.
On to our final topic, food. The thing we’ve all been waiting for. Afterall, food is probably what landed you on this blog in the first place, so let’s get to the subject we all really want to talk about anyway.
That’s the real question. Not, how do we feed ourselves. We are not just trying to shovel in the right amount of calories and move on – if we were we would be pounding protein shakes, with ingredients we can’t even pronounce, and call it good. My guess is you are here because you don’t want to go the protein shake route, or you have been doing the protein shake route and want something different. Welcome all! We are here because we want to nourish ourselves, treat our tastebuds well, fuel our adventure, and feel good.
Luckily Wild Zora has made that easy for us. I know this is where you think, “Yeah yeah now she is just going to sell this product to us.” But I am serious. I have been on and off again paleo since college more than ten years ago and usually I go off it because I am spending so much time in the backcountry, and I couldn’t get the food I needed to make it work. I feel best when I don’t eat grains, dairy, or things loaded with sugar and, if you take a look at most snacks or back country foods on the shelf, you will be hard pressed to find something that fits those criteria. I was always crashing when I was out climbing or boating. I would eat a snickers bar, feel jazzed for about an hour, and then be hangry and exhausted. I found some things that worked for me, like nuts and jerky, but I just wasn’t getting the nourishment I needed. Enter Wild Zora. I love the balance of Wild Zora foods and the variety. There are breakfasts, snacks, dinners, and everything in between.
Typically, I eat breakfast, morning snack, lunch, afternoon snack, and dinner. I try not to stray too far from my normal eating habits because if I do my tummy will be upset and, if you are out there for very long, it will make it hard to poop. Yep. I did just say that. It’s a reality. Wild Zora fortunately includes lots of veggies and fibers in their meals, so it makes it easier. Anyway, back to planning what meals I take and make.
If you like sweet breakfasts at home, then bring a sweet breakfast and if you do savory bring savory. There isn’t a need to totally revamp your diet just to be in the back country. I like littler breakfasts because I don’t want to waste time in camp, nor do I want to start the day really full and feeling sluggish. A bowl of oatmeal and some dried fruit (or fresh if you can handle the weight) is the way to go in my opinion. And coffee. Don’t forget the coffee, or tea if that’s your jam. I either take my AeroPress or Starbucks instant coffee.
For morning snack, I like sweet things like dried fruit, fruit leather, unsalted nuts etc. Often times I make my own little GORP bag with almonds, craisins (I like the ones sweetened by apple juice) and dark chocolate chips). Easy peasy. Keep it quick and simple.
I never particularly want to take the time to cook lunch so I like to bring things like carrots or celery, almond butter, apples or oranges, hard salami, hard cheeses if that’s your thing, dark chocolate… hardy food items that will last and that are fresh. I am all about sneaking as many vegetables into an outing as possible because I know in the long run, I am going to feel way better for it than if I just eat packaged and processed food, even good packaged food. Also, if you bring a nut butter, I recommend bringing only the portion you will eat and not a whole jar. Those suckers can be heavy.
In the afternoon I am typically ready for a salty snack. I’ve been sweating and need to replenish some of those salts in my body and I can feel that. I would recommend a meat & veggie bar or… dare I say? Chips! I love chips. I look for ones that are kettle cooked and have avocado or olive oil but I love me some chips. They are salty, and crunchy, and entirely satisfying mid-afternoon. Plus, at that point I really feel like I’ve earned it and the calories are more than welcome to keep me rolling. I never count calories but I do pay attention to getting enough calories. People make the mistake of not eating enough when they are in the wilderness and it is a safety concern if you are crashing because you are hungry. It can even be hazardous if it is cold, and your body is trying to heat itself but doesn’t have enough fuel to burn. I caution you to not underfeed yourself when you are out, and I encourage you to definitely be eating salt. Our bodies need salt and I think our culture has scared us away from it (with reason in some settings) but when you are outside and working hard you need it. So, pack those chips and enjoy every bit of them. You’ve earned it.
Finally, dinners. I love the Wild Zora dinners. Especially the Mountain Beef Stew. Two days ago, I finished rock climbing at 9:30 PM, I was starving and starting to feel very grouchy about it. I could tell that my climbing partner was giving me a wide berth and I don’t at all blame her. We all know that roaring dragon when it comes to visit, right? Right?? Tell me I am not the only person who gets hangry. At any rate, I had guided all day and desperately needed to refuel. Within ten minutes of getting back to my camp I had boiled water and my stew was soaking. I always carry spices with me and on this occasion, I added nutritional yeast, hatch green chili powder, Crazy Jane’s salt, and a little ghee to the mix and it was utterly heavenly. I think I downed it in under five minutes. I often like to carry broccoli with me too and add that into the pot (or in this case bag) as well. I love the crunch and again… greens. Most people discard the broccoli stem but I eat those as my appetizer. You just cut it up into little disks, and they are wee broccoli chips and super yummy. I then toss the head into my meal and voila! I have made my meal fancy. I generally have spicy powder on me, either the hatch green chili or chipotle chili powder, salt mix, cumin, garlic powder, and nutritional yeast. With that combo you could make an old shoe taste good. If you haven’t tried nutritional yeast, I recommend it. It’s cheesy and gives you good vitamins and minerals that we all need.
I like finishing my day with a cup of tea as the signal to my body that we are now done and to let my brain know it is time to relax. I don’t do anything with caffeine in it, and I typically don’t want to carry honey with me because the thought of having it explode in my backpack makes me cringe (I really hate sticky things), so I look for something that satisfies the craving for dessert, and also lets me sleep. Stash makes a delicious tea called “Licorice Spice” that is sweet all on its own and usually that’s my beverage of choice.
Phew. That was a lot on food, packing, and general know-how and yet I barely scratched the surface. Just know that you will always be learning things about being in the backcountry or even out on a casual jaunt through town. Feel free to reach out if you have questions or are planning a trip and want to run any ideas by me. I am so excited for you and the adventures awaiting you!
With so much love!
Here's how to make simple AIP Avocado "Toast"!
If you are ever in our neck of the woods in Fort Collins, there are so many places to hike! My favorite loop is Grey Rock. I can take our dog Pooh up with me (on-leash) and spend a long morning doing the full 7-mile loop. It is challenging, beautiful, and not too crowded in the morning!
Our family loves to go to the hot springs when we have a free weekend! The water is SO rejuvenating and getting into the mountains is such a peaceful and mindful place to be. I especially love the no cell service.
We got to Cottonwood Hot Springs near Buena Vista. These are my FAVORITE hot springs! They have multiple very small and private pools and it is all very natural. These hot springs are full of lithium, which is great to calm the nerves. We always sleep so well afterwards!
This company was also created by a female founder who cares deeply about great ingredients! Her sunscreen products are cleanly made and are free from PABA, parabens, fragrance & all sorts of other yucky stuff. They even have a NO list they include to let you know what isn’t in their formulas. Plus, it feels amazing on my skin and there’s no white residue!
Sunscreen is SO important and I wear it everyday, not just on adventure days.
Sometimes, I just want to get outside to garden or go on a solo hike to clear my head. When I do, I love to listen to a good podcast that gets me thinking about the business or health - because those are the two things I’m really passionate about.
NPR’s ‘How I Built This’ is always such an inspiring podcast. I love to hear stories from other founders about their passion and vision, how they solve the difficult problems in a startup, and how they continue to seek joy in this entrepreneurial life! The stories are so inspiring and real. When I’m open to thinking about work and have space for that, it’s a go-to listen.
The Paleo Mom, Dr. Sarah Ballantyne, along with Stacy Toth, host an incredible podcast called ‘The Whole View’. The podcast discusses all things food & lifestyle to feel your best but from a scientific perspective. They have wonderful banter and really get at the heart of issues that plague so many of us like fatigue, stomach issues, and general nutrition.
I actually started Wild Zora because my kids needed better, more balanced, higher protein snacks without all the added sugar! My favorite has always been our Parmesan Beef Bar made with 100% Grass-Fed Beef. It’s our only product with dairy and I just can’t let it go! My kids love the Mediterranean Lamb Bar & the Apple Pork Bar as they’re a little on the sweeter side and are a hit with all of our kid’s friends too!
Before I head out for a hike, I love to make a big bottle of iced tea! Does anyone else do this? I like to use hibiscus because it keeps you extra hydrated and tastes delicious. I steep it in hot water for a few minutes, take out the tea bag, and let the tea come to room temperature. Then, I pour it over a ton of ice and take it with me in an insulated water bottle. It is so refreshing!
There is nothing better than a day outside with our pup. I absolutely love having this collapsible bowl that I can hook onto my leash or backpack. It’s so convenient and keeps Pooh bear happy and energized. It’s so important to keep yourself and your pets hydrated!
Our family loves these dog leashes. They are made from recycled materials, they are incredibly durable, and they are super easy to loop around a tree when you arrive at your campsite or lunch spot and want to park your dog. Plus, they come in a bunch of great colors and are made right here in Colorado!
I’ve been buying this chapstick for YEARS! I have tried every single flavor but the Cream Cocoa is absolutely my favorite. Many chapsticks that are made with essential oils end up drying out my lips but this one NEVER does. I just can't get enough of it and I am constantly going back to their site to order more!
These are the absolute best! They are lightweight and dry super fast. I roll them up when I am hot and the best feature is that they have a pocket on the thigh - perfect size for my phone as I love to take photos on our trips. Our teenagers complain so much about it, but Pooh (the dog) is always ready to pose :-)
I like to bring this Cotopaxi backpack on our short hikes.
Cotopaxi uses recycled materials to create bags made with fun colors.The best part about the Cotopaxi bags is they’re the perfect size bag for just one person! I realized if I bring too big of a bag, I end up carrying everyone’s snacks and water! Lesson learned - now everyone has their own Cotopaxi bags :)
I always thought that wool socks are only for winter. My mistake - wool keeps you warm in winter and cool in summer! I love Smartwool socks! Especially the lightweight ones. They are a Colorado based company and their socks are made in the US. Did I mention that they last forever?
Another super high quality Colorado-made brand - Voormi. Among others, the Voormi is one of my favorite long-sleeve merino wool shirts! It’s the perfect balance as it’s lightweight but keeps me warm in the morning but doesn’t cause me to overheat in the midday sun. Josh and I met the founders years ago at a clothing show in Denver, they’re so lovely! They are based in Pagosa Springs so while you’re down there soaking in the hot springs, be sure to stop by and check out their retail store!
Please let me know what some of your essentials are! I'd love to know!
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