Sensory Revolution

Basil: More Than Meets the Eye

Posted on October 11, 2010 by Mission Community Market in Blog, Sensory Revolution | Leave a comment


Basil, which happens to be a main ingredient in Sensory Revolution‘s Sensational Seasonings green herbal mix, is much more than just a tasty garnish. See below in this excerpt from a great article from Health Food Harvest for the surprising and impressive healing powers of the humble green herb.

The Nutrients in Basil

Basil is an excellent source of a variety of key nutrients, particularly vitamin C, calcium, vitamin A and phosphorus. Furthermore, basil is a useful source of magnesium, potassium and iron.

Basil has a long history of use in cooking, going back even to the Greek civilization, and probably beyond. This herb is believed to have significant health effects, particularly in improving cardiovascular health. Furthermore, basil is a particularly good source of vitamin A, which is a key nutrient for strong eyesight, plus healthy skin and hair. Basil contains high concentrations of carotenoids such as beta carotene, and these substances are converted to vitamin A in the body. Beta carotene offers even stronger benefits than vitamin A alone, and it is known to be a powerful antioxidant.

The importance of antioxidants revolves around their ability to help prevent the cell damage that occurs from free radicals in the body. Free radicals are a natural presence in the body, however, if they get out of control they are thought to cause cell damage that can lead to cancer. Some reseachers now claim that the damage done by these free radicals can be reduced or prevented by eating a diet that is rich in antioxidant vitamins such as beta carotene.

[from: Health Food Harvest, ©2005-2007 Roy Thomsitt All Rights Reserved]

Cooking Fresh Heirloom Beans

Posted on October 8, 2010 by Mission Community Market in Blog, Sensory Revolution, Yerena Farms | Leave a comment


One of the most unique items at the MCM are the fresh heirloom beans from Yerena Farms. They look like large wax beans with a very firm pod shell speckled with brown, pink and beige. Pop open the pod and you’ll usually find between five and seven large fresh beans with a distinctive flavor that has been preserved and and cultivated for many generations–much like heirloom tomatoes. Separate the beans from the pod (a great activity for kids to participate in!), place in a strainer or colander and rinse well. Since the beans are fresh, there’s no need to soak them–they’re ready to cook once they’ve been rinsed.

To cook 2 cups of fresh heirloom beans, chop up an onion and a few cloves of garlic. Heat 1-2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and add the onions and garlic and cook until very fragrant, 2-3 minutes. Add the rinsed beans and enough water to cover, plus an inch or two. Add plenty of salt and pepper and fresh herbs or spices if desired (Try Sensory Revolution’s‘s Sensational Seasonings Green herb mix), stir well and cover the pot. Bring the mixture to a rapid boil and then reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer mixture covered for 45 minutes to an hour. Taste a bean to check done-ness. Beans are done when they can easily be chewed.

Once the beans have been cooked, use them in burritos, enchiladas, soups, salads or as they are for a healthy, protein-rich meal/side dish. Enjoy!

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