GOODNESS
Garlic: Garlic is in the same family as onions and leeks, and purportedly provided ancient Roman soldiers the courage to battle the barbarians. Whether or not it gives you courage, it is known to lower blood pressure, which is great for your heart and helps prevent stroke. In addition, it has a long history as a digestive aid, so don't be shy with this wonderful herb, no matter what it does to your breath!

Sage: This delightful herb is a key player in some terrific recipes, but it is also a great purifier, fighting both bacteria and viruses. It is a powerful anti-inflammatory, and is used by many to ease the symptoms of arthritis. It also helps to lower blood pressure and control blood sugar. Like rosemary, it has been used since ancient times as a memory enhancer. Although it is just fine in foods, you should avoid excessive quantities of sage if you are pregnant.
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Recipe

Clam Stew

serves
prep time: 10
cook time: 18

ingredients

  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium-sized red onion, cut into 0.5 inch dice
  • 1 cup shiitake mushrooms (hard part of stems removed)
  • 1 cup cooked chorizo sausage, thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup Cinzano Rosso or other sweet red vermouth
  • 1 1/2 cups prepared tomato sauce
  • 1 cup dry white wine
  • 24 littleneck clams, scrubbed and rinsed
  • Garlic bread, for serving

directions

1. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees. In a heavy-bottomed 1 1/2 gallons saucepan, heat the olive oil, add the onion, mushrooms, and chorizo. Stirring occasionally, cook over medium heat until the onion is softened, about 8 minutes.

2. Add the vermouth and bring to a boil. Add the tomato sauce, wine, and clams. Cover and cook until the clams open, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat.

3. Uncover the clams and discard any that did not open. Serve immediately in shallow bowls with warm garlic bread.