Ingredients \ Seeds
Flaxseeds
Flaxseeds and whole grains are the basis of our recipes. Whole wheat is the source of insoluble bran fiber, all the trace minerals that come in the bran and vital oils that come with the wheat germ.
Flaxseeds have been my favorite seed for breads and baked goods since I first discovered them as a baker's apprentice in Hanover, Germany. At that time, we baked a Flaxseed Rye that was uniquely delicious. The master baker who oversaw my apprenticeship told me that flaxseeds were a well known cure-all for stomach and bowel ailments. As is the case with many folk remedy's there was truth, and then some, to the matter. Flaxseeds are found in more and more in our baked foods. Flaxseeds are an important source of soluble fiber. This is the same fiber that made oat bran famous. Eating soluble fiber has a very positive affect on our cholesterol levels, reducing both the overall level as well as the percentage of the "bad" LDL cholesterol.
Flaxseeds have also gained attention because they are nature's most abundant source of the Omega-3 essential fatty acids. These fatty acids are labeled "essential" because the body cannot build them from fatty acids in our food; rather, the chains of Omega-3's must come into the body as Omega-3's. Like fiber, Omega-3's also work to lower cholesterol. Even more important, the Omega-3's thin the blood, which can cut down on the potential for blood clots and their damage. It is important to point out that vegetable based Omega-3's are not the same long-chain Omega-3's found in fatty fish and in some grass fed beef, but they are still important, necessary and essential to cardiovascular improvement, cell reproduction, brain functions and skin and hair health.
Flaxseeds do need to be well chewed to break the tough cover protecting the seed so that the oils can be absorbed. Any unchewed seeds accentuate the effect of the fiber. But this same tough cover is also the richest known source of "lignans", a constituent of fiber that promotes anti-tumoral, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and antioxidant effects in the body. The possibilities of using these lignans for treatment is just beginning to be explored.
Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin Seeds are one of the American seeds. Native Americans raised squash for the seeds, which they ate raw or toasted, long before the squash were selected for the edible flesh. Pumpkin seeds also have valuable Omega-3 fatty acids. More importantly, they have strengthened their reputation as a potent healing food for the urinary tract and for promoting prostate health. According to the Wellness Letter of the University of California, Berkeley, pumpkin seeds "have been used to treat male urinary problems for centuries, and there is some evidence that pumpkin seed oil and extract can make urine flow more easily. But no study has shown that pumpkin seeds can actually maintain prostate health-that is, prevent enlargement of the prostate." (February 2004). Moreover, pumpkin seeds are an excellent source of fiber and are high in phosphorous, iron, calcium, vitamin A, folic acid and niacin. Toasted with the cheese, the pumpkin seeds taste great!
Sunflower Seeds
Sunflower seeds are another seed that is native to the Americas. Their nutritional profile is rich in Omega-6 fatty acids. Just as notable, sunflower seeds have a very high content of dietary fiber. Sunflower seeds contain significant amounts of calcium, iron, copper, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium. Last but not least, sunflower seeds bring a rich, buttery flavor to the Krackers.
Sesame Seeds
Sesame seeds are a traditional food in Oriental and Middle Eastern cultures. They are the source of tahini, a key ingredient in the hummus, which goes so well with our Krackers. Sesame Seeds have been used medicinally to relieve constipation, stiff joints, backaches, weak knees and are considered an overall strengthening food. They are high in protein, niacin, calcium, copper, iron and significantly in magnesium. Like the flaxseeds, unless well chewed, they can become a significant source of fiber. They toast very nicely on top of the Krackers, bringing a very nutty flavor component.
