What is it? Chamomile is a flowering herb in the daisy family, originally native to Europe and North Africa and now cultivated in many regions worldwide. Two species are most commonly used: German chamomile (Matricaria recutita) and Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile). German chamomile is the more extensively studied and is often considered more potent, while … Read more

“Enjoy only 2 cosmetics: enough sleep and Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soap.” That short line from my grandfather’s label sums up my simple approach to skin care. I would add one more habit: drink plenty of water. Together, these three things have been the foundation of the clear, resilient complexion I have now. “Enjoy only 2 … Read more

Stuffed salmon fillet with spinach and celery is a dish that looks festive but is surprisingly easy to prepare. It’s ideal for spring gatherings and makes a beautiful main for Easter, yet it’s equally suitable for a simple family dinner. Baked gently, the salmon stays moist while the filling adds bright freshness. The recipe uses … Read more

I’ve mentioned before that lasagne can be a bit fiddly to make, and while it’s one of my top five favourite meals, I don’t always have the energy. When I do get motivated I like to make a batch of individual vegan lasagnes and freeze them — they make quick, comforting meals for busy days … Read more

After three trips for freshly squeezed grapefruit juice I finally admitted something: grapefruit is one of my favorite fruits. It took me years — despite other tempting options like mango, pineapple and raspberries — to accept how much I love its bright, slightly bitter-sweet flavor. The change from summer to fall often leaves us somewhere … Read more

Have you ever looked at my photos and wondered, “Why doesn’t she use plain white plates like everyone else?” These dishes were our wedding china—more like wedding stoneware since we’re not that fancy. This week The Pants and I celebrated our 16th wedding anniversary, and these plates have been at our table since day one. … Read more

These loaded mashed potatoes have it all — bacon, sour cream, chives, cheddar, and a touch of garlic — for a creamy, savory side everyone will love. Loaded mashed potatoes combine the comfort of classic mashed potatoes with all the best baked potato toppings. Start with buttery Yukon Gold potatoes, then fold in sharp cheddar, … Read more

These fluffy Amish pancakes are thick, tender, and packed with old-fashioned buttermilk flavor—just like the pancakes made in Amish kitchens for generations. They turn golden on the outside while remaining light and airy inside. I love serving homemade pancakes with fresh berries and whipped cream, though they’re equally delicious with a pat of butter and … Read more