Maeme's Clover Lawn

Gardens, growing and green things. These are all things our Maeme - as well as twin sister Callie live for. The spring starts with grow lights, leads to summer sun (and weeds) harvesting and perserving for the non-producing seasons. We love all things outdoors in the summer and have a soft spot in our hearts for pollinators. Growing up and even to this day our father is a bee keeper. On the homepage of rasberrys.net check out that little bee on his plump dandelion.

In the Wood River Valley area of Idaho where we are firmly planted, green lawns are abundant. We have fresh, cold water flowing down from the Sawtooth Mountains in the Big Wood River. Most years…but not always. Since 2007, the Wood River Land Trust (a local conservancy organization) has been working with homeowners and businesses alike with the Trout Friendly Program. It’s good for not only for the fish, but also promoting drought tolerant landscaping.

This year our own Maeme started a “clover lawn.” Clover uses less water and requires less maintenance than traditional lawns. The hardy white clover - the species predominantly used for clover lawns today - is actually a primary source for pollinators. In some areas of the world 30-60% of a bee’s nectar comes from this clover type.

If you are interested in learning more about Maeme’s clover lawn in downtown Hailey, Idaho stop into Rasberrys Bistro at 411 East 5th Street under Tribes. She would be happy to share her tips and tricks.

Homemade Electrolyte Drinks

After workouts and especially during hot Sun Valley summer months hydration becomes an important topic.  How are you refueling and rehydrating your body?  If you are suspicious of the neon-colored, sugar-loaded options (as you should) on the shelves there’s hope!  Whipping up a homemade electrolyte drink is super easy.

What are electrolytes?

Electrolytes are minerals that play a role in controlling heartbeat, balancing bodily fluids and sending electrical impulses to muscles in order to coordinate movement.  Sodium, chloride, potassium, magnesium, phosphate and calcium are the minerals your body relies on most.  If you lose electrolytes faster than you can replenish side effects can include muscle cramping or irregular heartbeat.  Don’t be that guy!  Oh and by the way, food does contain electrolytes too and many of us replenish naturally by drinking water and eating a meal after a rigorous workout.

Let's talk about replenishing your body with natural, whole ingredients without the use of those unnatural dyes and sweeteners. 

Coconut water is an excellent base for a homemade electrolyte drink.  Add your desired amount of water.  Then add 100% natural juice such as orange, lemon, lime, pomegranate or watermelon.  (Fresh squeezed is best!) Tea such as ginger, hibiscus or mint could be added here as an alternative to juice for flavor. Try a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar.  Add a natural sweetener such as honey, maple syrup, or sugar-free monk fruit.  Add collagen powder, cream of tartar or other powders/minerals of your liking. Lastly, a pinch of salt. Stir and enjoy.

Happy experimenting!  Let us know what your favorite recipe ends up being!

Homemade Meat (Entree) Cakes

If you are looking for a hearty entree that is homemade and can be served on a bed of greens, think meat cakes. Meat cakes is a general term, but they can be made with fish, crab, chicken or even veggies. This is a great way to use a bit of leftovers - you know, the meal you spent so much time on, but the leftovers in the refrigerator are just not that appetizing? Here are a few tips to make some homemade meat cakes in your kitchen.

Homemade Meat Cakes

1. Start with pre-cooked chicken, fish, crab or veggies that are finely chopped or shredded. Maeme likes mushrooms because they have a meaty flavor. Try sweet potatoes, rice or beans. Here you can add protein powder too, Maeme likes Vital Veggie Protein.

2. In a large mixing bowl add panko (if desired), egg and meat and/or veggies

3. Add ingredients like mustard, mayonnaise, herbs. Maeme recommends dried herbs as they are more concentrated.

4. Fold together, do not overmix

5. Form patties about 3/4 inch thick

6. Coat the outside of the patties with more panko if desired

7. In a skillet with oil on medium-high heat, sear each side for 3-4 minutes

8. Bake in the oven for about 20 minutes if desired

Let us know what kind of cakes you make and how you like them!