Pequod

That link doesn’t work...or at least safari doesn’t like it. I actually have been using mostly “natural” products, body washes, etc. One even has a big “Vegan” badge on the front, but not sure whether that means it would make vegans happy or it’s made out of vegans. These are amongst the products that have been killing me. Once I stopped using them, many of my issues went away. But the underlying cause hadn’t been identified. Facts remain a stubborn thing (and I even live in the shadow of the beltway, where dogma reigns supreme and facts don’t matter). Skin patch tests show pretty clearly where the problems are and why those products were bad for me. And why things I’ve substituted are working. There are a few more changes to make to resolve the rest. I agree that government food science and recommendations have been largely wrong for decades, but the ACDS isn’t a government run organization, and even if it were I don’t believe that would inherently invalidate it. Science works.

Thanks for the tip. No I haven’t, but they don’t show up on my list. The list I’m speaking of is a list that my docs generated using a large database maintained by the American Contact Dermatitis Society (CAMP is the database). They enter my allergen details into that and it spits out a list of known safe products. It even includes prescriptions — I had to stop using one...not safe. It’s very interesting, because there are no 100% safe brands. Even brands like Vanicream and Free & Clear are spotty. I can use their liquid soap and shave cream, but not their shampoo. I can use one cerave cleanser, but not the other. Two types of Lubriderm are safe, but the red top one (which I’ve been using for years) is poison. Pure & Gentle looks interesting. They might just not be in the database at all. Unfortunately, they list no ingredients on their website, which doesn’t help me. As my docs say, I can always patch test myself with unknown products, but for now I’m starting with the known safe list until things are under control. Good tip, though. Will keep my eye on it.

Lard based soap might just be the answer! People could call me with, “Soooooeeeeee!”

Next chapter in the saga. Skin patch testing has revealed that I've developed a severe allergy to a set of chemical ingredients (unpronounceable and not even going to try to spell) found in the vast majority of soaps and shampoos. Even so-called "natural" products contain these ingredients. This seems to be the primary cause for my issues. I've officially stopped bathing and have warned my family to stay upwind. Good news is that pork is back on the menu!

Just watched that episode. Great show! I think the focaccia I made is consistent, although I used sourdough leavening rather than yeast. High quality oil throughout — in the pan, in the dough, on top. Had exactly the crispy outer texture as in the show, with a soft, tender middle. Now I want to make another! Also have a recipe for an authentic Tuscan Ragu I’ve been meaning to do. Maybe next week. Lots of good stuff in that episode I’ve learned over the years - like that most olive oils sold in the US are either a) not olive oil, or b) old and rancid. I now think of olive oil like I think of my coffee beans. Must be fresh. I need to see the date the oil was pressed and the date my beans were roasted.

https://freshpressedoliveoil.com/ The website is a bit cheesy, but the oils are legit - best I’ve ever used. Recommended by Steven Raichlen and, if I’m remembering right, the book “Real Food Fake Food”. Incidentally, the latter is written by Larry Olmsted, the same guy who rated the KK he best grill in Forbes.

Don’t be silly, Bruce. Only waffles have noses.

I’ve been subscribing to the Fresh Pressed Olive Oil Club for the past year or so. Very pricey, but unbelievably good oils. Each shipment comes with one bottle each of a mild, medium, and bold freshly pressed oil. I used an Australian medium oil on my Focaccia last weekend.

Olive & gold 23’s are the best...even with a layer of ice!

Beautiful! I knead (spelling intentional) to do some Ciabatta soon.

You had my sympathies at the "LAX" part, but the rest sounds like a great time! Enjoy!

No

Naturally leavened focaccia. Topped with super high quality fresh pressed olive oil, fresh rosemary, sea salt, tomatoes, kalamata olives. The Italian grandmother in me is shouting, Mangia!

Wow! Stunning!

Today’s loaf. And a closeup of the ear. Just because.

Do you probe tender?

Wowee! Fan-farkin-tastic!

So...this steak sauce is great in miserable weather. Or so I hear...

This has become one of my favorites. Super easy and seriously delicious. Thought I’d share. 1/4 cup mustard powder, preferably Colman’s 2 tablespoons hot water 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar 1/4 cup soy sauce https://food52.com/blog/23125-genius-3-ingredient-steak-sauce-from-the-pantry

I’m also allergic to grass, but it’s okay because I’m also allergic to yard work.

@tekobo - look at what you started: https://www.thefooddictator.com/the-hirshon-nigerian-skewered-beef-bbq-suya/

Funky Suya!

My last suya cook was highlighted in the monthly Amazing Ribs "Hot From The Pit" newsletter. The word is out...and now folks over at AR are learning about suya too!

Heavens, no! I want the kids there to witness the look on her face...and for my protection!

Well I have gotten the email that my Konro is on the way! Wife is getting an awesome and unexpected Christmas gift!