Wild food is rugged, nutrient-dense, and full of surprises, while store-bought food is convenient and predictable. But which one is better for you? From tiny but powerful wild blueberries to bitter dandelion greens packed with vitamins, this post breaks down the real nutritional differences between foraged and store-bought foods. Whether you’re picking mushrooms in the woods or grabbing spinach at the store, you’ll learn what’s truly the better choice—and have a few laughs along the way!
I used to think cast iron was too much work—too heavy, too high-maintenance. Then I gave it a shot, and now I’ll never go back to flimsy nonstick pans. Cast iron lasts forever, gets better with use, and works on any heat source—even a campfire. It sears meat like a pro, bakes the crispiest cornbread, and won’t flake toxic chemicals into your food. If you’re not cooking with cast iron yet, you’re seriously missing out. Here’s why you need one!
I’ve also found that having a well-stocked pantry encourages creativity in the kitchen. When you’re working with what you have, you come up with combinations you might never have tried otherwise. Some of my favorite recipes have been born out of a “pantry challenge” on a quiet evening.
If you’re anything like me, you don’t let good things go to waste—especially something as flavorful and versatile as pickle juice. Whether it’s the brine from homemade pickles or the last bit left in a store-bought jar, I’ve found plenty of creative ways to put it to use.
Omega-3 fatty acids are a simple yet powerful addition to your winter diet. They provide numerous benefits that support the body and mind through the colder months, helping to boost immunity, improve mood, reduce joint pain, support heart health, and keep skin hydrated—all essential during winter.
With its high protein content and rich flavor, ruffed grouse is a nutritious and delicious addition to your table. Whether you’re pan-frying it with garlic and herbs or grilling up some kabobs, this wild game bird is versatile enough to impress even the most discerning palate.
Bread and butter pickles are the perfect mix of sweet and tangy, making them a favorite for snacking or adding to meals. This simple recipe uses fresh cucumbers, onions, and a blend of spices to create crisp, flavorful pickles that are easy to make at home.
Incorporating asparagus into your homestead meals is a delicious way to celebrate the bounty of your garden or local market. Whether you prefer it grilled, sauteed, or pickled, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy this versatile vegetable.
With each new infusion, you'll be creating a taste of nature that enhances your culinary creations, nurtures your well-being, and celebrates the beauty of your homesteading journey. Cheers to the delicious and healthy world of herbal vinegar!
The ultimate pumpkin palooza with 10 creative ways to put your pumpkin harvest to good use. From breakfast to dessert and everything in between, pumpkins are truly the stars of the season.
Discover the 10 benefits of home cooking and learn how to cook like a pro at home. Explore essential kitchen tools and unleash your culinary creativity. Start your journey to healthier eating, cost savings, and memorable moments with loved ones. Dive into the world of home cooking today!
Whether you prefer the classic pan-fried version, a zesty ceviche, or the flavorful walleye tacos with mango salsa, these recipes showcase the versatility and mouthwatering qualities of this freshwater delight.
Welcome to our homesteader's cornucopia, where we celebrate the joys of growing, cooking, and preserving corn. As a homesteader, there's something magical about tending to your own corn crop and transforming it into a plethora of mouthwatering dishes to share with loved ones.
From sweet to savory, zucchini offers a multitude of culinary possibilities. Whether you're making comforting soups, delectable bread, or healthy alternatives to your favorite dishes, this versatile vegetable deserves a prominent place in your homestead kitchen.
There are many different ways to store food safely long term, and the method you choose will depend on your personal preferences, the type of food you are storing, and the resources available to you. Whether you are canning, dehydrating, freezing, or using one of the other methods we discussed, the key is to store your food in a cool, dark place that is protected from oxygen, moisture, and pests.
Making your own bacon is a fun and rewarding project for any homesteader. It allows you to use up excess meat, control the ingredients, and get creative in the kitchen. While it does take some time and patience, the end result is a delicious and versatile food that can be used in all sorts of dishes.
Hummingbird food, also known as hummingbird nectar, is a sweet liquid that mimics the natural nectar found in flowers. It is the primary source of food for these small birds as they require a high amount of energy to maintain their active lifestyle. The nectar is made up of a mixture of sugar and water, which provides the necessary carbohydrates and hydration required by the birds.
This soup recipe is very forgiving, as we have cooked the recipe as is and also with variations. For one batch we did not have the beans or lentils on hand so we left those out and added browned ground beef (about a cup and a half) and frozen mixed vegetables (about 2 cups) to make a heartier, more filling soup. Both turned out great!
One of my favourite rhubarb recipes is Rhubarb muffins. They are fluffy and tart and sweet in a wonderful way and the optional streusel topping is delicious! Try out our Rhubarb Muffin Recipe.
My kids love pancakes for breakfast and since they are so quick and easy to whip up, they are a regular go-to breakfast at our house. They also freeze wonderfully if you have leftovers you want to save for another day.
To bake this applesauce bread I used my home canned spiced applesauce which has cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg in it. I left out the cinnamon in the recipe so that it wasn’t too strong in the finished product. I also used an extra egg, as the eggs our chickens are laying are a bit on the small side.