Snacks

WATCH FOR THIS PROTEIN BAR

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As I have been in the food and fitness spaces for many years, I am always looking for ways to take better care of myself, my friends and family, and my Matt’s Meals fans.

Among the mentors I have found are longevity guru Peter Attia and all-around science stud Andrew Huberman.

So when both of them recommended a new protein bar, I jumped on it even before they were released to the public to make sure I could tell others first.

For decades, the protein bar space has been ruled by a handful of glutenous Goliaths. Fortunately, thanks to Peter Rahal – inventor of Rx Bar (which is still a favorite!) – there is now the new David bar to – as the young people say – slay them all.

In addition to having an amazing 28 grams of protein, David bars have only 150 calories (a full 75% of which come from the protein, making them a great way to get your gram-per-pound a day), at most 2 grams of net carbs, and – get this – no gluten and no sugar!

Oh- And did I mention they are easily among the best-tasting protein bars around?
Whether I enjoy a cookie dough bar before a workout, a fudge brownie bar before a big writing assignment, a cake batter bar before I talk about my book on the Ivy League, or a blueberry pie bar…whenever, the bars taste like the flavors they claim and not like they were just flavored to taste like them. Even the pastry-like consistency is a step up from most other bars, which can resemble eating chalk or dried spackle.

Protein is key to muscle growth, weight loss, and many other bodily functions and personal goals. If you want to ask for the best one by name, get to know David.

NUTS TO NIBS

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I was recently back at Boston Public Market for their annual Harvest Party and there is a lot of news to share!

In addition to hosting one of the largest pumpkins in the area, the carnival-themed fair offered guests opportunities to try their luck at various games and to enjoy free samples from many of the Market’s vaunted vendors.

In addition to such carb-y faves as pizzas from the Bagel Guild, popovers from The Popover Lady, and hot pretzels from Hearth & Hug that came with a mustard I wanted to bottle and take home, there were also fall-spiced popcorn from Curio Spice, mouth-watering sandwiches from Beantown Pastrami, and the widely-distributed but rarely bested ice cream from Crescent Ridge!

One of my favorite discoveries, however, was that Q’s Nuts (which has supplied many of my author talks and presentations of my book on the Ivy League with their delicious and nutritious snacks) was expanding their menu of offerings not just into more new creative flavors of fresh and healthy almonds, cashews, peanuts, and more, but into superfood-worthy cacao nibs!

While Q’s has been a favorite source of protein and energy (and also of gifts for family and friends), they are now adding addictively-delicious roasted nibs to their ever-expanding menu of tasty treats, making a visit to the Market or to qsnuts.com even more worthwhile!

The BPM Harvest Party means that winter and the holidays are around the corner. What better time to stock up on delicious nutritious snacks that CAN last through the season but that you will probably devour the day you get them?

Fortunately, Q’s always has new flavors and ideas coming so reordering is not only easy but required.

GETTING A DELICIOUS BOOST

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As I have been in the health and fitness world for so long, I am well aware of the benefits of adding creatine to your fitness regimen.

In addition to fueling your muscles, Creatine also helps keep them hydrated and supple, and has also been shown to support cognitive function and energy production.

For many, however, the major obstacle to getting Creatine in their bodies is getting Creatine in their bodies.

As most Creatine supplements come in the form of a chalky powder, it can be unappetizing and difficult to ingest and integrate into your diet.

That is why I was so thrilled to find Boost Nutra’s ATPerform (pronounced A-T-Perform) creatine gummies!

In addition to using the highest-quality ingredients that are custom manufactured and processed under strict health and sanitation standards, the founding friends at Boost Nutra made sure to add a number of other beneficial ingredients – including mind-helping nootropic L-Theanine, energy- and metabolism-boosting vitamin B-12, and the recovery-boosting antioxidant powerhouse black currant – and to remove any GMOs, dyes, and toxins, including sugar!

The result is a delicious vegan-friendly gummy that can be tempting to eat as a snack and that has benefits no matter when you enjoy it.

Whether or not your day begins with a high-intensity interval training or a low-key stroll through the park, Creatine has benefits to offer and with the help of Boost Nutra’s ATPerform gummies, it is more appealing than ever!

CELEBRATING CELIAC

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As September 13 is National Celiac Awareness Day, I wanted to make people of all dietary proclivities aware that there are plenty of great-tasting and healthy foods that can comply with any restrictions they may want or need to impose on their diets.

For those who desire to eschew gluten, Mightylicious has recently released a new set of flours that work and taste as well and good as any traditional brand. Instead of using buckwheat and amaranth, which can often come with a gritty mouth feel, Mightylicious uses superfine GMO-free rice flour that they mill specifically for baking to deliver a soft, airy texture to all your favorite recipes.

Whether you want all-purpose flour or even vegan all-purpose, Mightylicious has you covered. And if brownies are your goal, they also offer a vegan brownie mix that takes the guess work out of yummy.

Speaking of yummy, Mightylicious also offers already made gluten-free cookies – some of which are vegan. From their rich and creamy brown butter cookie and even browner double Dutch chocolate cookie to a hearty oatmeal raisin and traditional shortbread and salted peanut butter, these crumble-free cookies come individually wrapped and not only fit in your lunchbox, bag, or pocket but also fit the bill for those who like tasty treats regardless of their digestive history.  

Whether you choose their handcrafted cookies or choose to use your own hands, you can be sure that Mightylicious uses only the best, allergen-friendly ingredients available so you never have to worry whether anyone can or will not enjoy every bite. No wonder they were a Food & Beverage Magazine “Top Pick” last year!

https://mightylicious.com

PICKLE…POPCORN…PERFECT!

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I’ve spoken often of the delicious flavors of Sweet Chaos popcorn.

Most recently, I discovered one that is more chaotic than sweet, and yet I can’t get enough!

As Matt’s Meals fans know, one of my favorite snacks (other than popcorn) are pickles. So how excited was I when I found out that my friends at Sweet Chaos were coming out with a dill pickle-flavored popcorn?

As soon as the box arrived, I tore open the first bag and was pretty much done with it within minutes. The combination of dill and vinegar was perfect and I ended up going back to the bag later that night while watching a movie on TV and then to the next bag a day or so later. 

Perhaps if movie theaters used Sweet Chaos popcorn, Netflix wouldn’t have such a stranglehold on the entertainment industry. In any case, Sweet Chaos surely has a hold on this popcorn lover! And even if you do not like pickles (I’m talking to you, “Green”!), Sweet Chaos has enough flavors to satisfy every taste. From traditional kettle corn made with real cane sugar and popcorn wrapped in real white cheddar cheese to their bag-at-a-time black and white cookie and peanut butter cup drizzled varieties and such seasonal stock-ups as peppermint stick and pumpkin spice, Sweet Chaos has been a regular resident in my pantry since I discovered them and I look forward to seeing what they develop next.

All of their amazing flavors are made with non-GMO corn kernels and hand-cooked in coconut oil for a creamy flavor that actually packs a little extra nutrition. 

Pickles and popcorn may sound odd, but believe me, it will at least be a gateway to some of your next favorite snacks – Sweet Chaos popcorns.

CORN – NUTS

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When I recently interviewed Jordan Rich at the Needham Free Public Library about his wonderful book – On Air: My 50-year love affair with radio (proceeds from which go to Boston Children’s Hospital), many of my fabulous food friends donated samples to share with the audience.

And while there was an impressive spread to go along with Jordan’s impressive stories of his life and career and the many other lives he has touched, two of the most popular items were bags of Q’s Nuts and fresh-made caramel and cheese popcorn from Johnson’s.

While Qs has been a friend and supporter for many years, Johnson’s was a more recent discovery. Even so, my fans and I loved them both equally and, when the interview was over, I mixed the scant leftovers together for a delicious post-event treat! 
Since 1940, Johnson’s has been bringing the flavor of the New Jersey boardwalk to snack lovers around the world. Their air-popped, freshly-packed popcorns are available in an ever-expanding menu of flavors and come in sizes that work well for a family movie night or corporate event.

Though a few years younger, Q’s commitment to quality is no different and their selection of flavors is even greater- wrapping their fresh and nutrient-packed almonds, cashews, peanuts, and pecans in everything from maple and bourbon to garlic and an entire line of chocolate-based varieties.

While I look forward to more author talks and more great food, all you need to do to enjoy a taste of my Writer’s Block series is to visit needhamchannel.org, and please also check out Johnson’s and Q’s anytime you want a delicious snack that is made with love.

BRINGING IT ALL BACK HOME

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Though I grew up in the Merrimack Valley, my writing career first took root when I lived in Marblehead.

And when you consider that my family shopped at Shubie’s all the time, it may be no surprise that I now write about great independent food makers.

As they have been around for over 75 years, it is a safe bet that I am not the first person to fall in love with the wonderful wares of independent makers with help from the Shube family. 

From freshly-prepared foods, handcrafted salads and sandwiches, and customized cakes at their recently-renovated Foodbar to candies and treats from other local legends like Harbor Sweets and a wide selection of gifts that includes great books to wine and spirits from around the corner and around the world, Shubie’s has everything you need to feed your family, sparkle a party host, and find a new favorite every time you visit! 

If you need help finding new favorites, be sure to take suggestions from third-generation Shubie, Dougy. 

If you need help finding great food for more than just yourself, Shubie’s also carters and consults on menus that are perfect for any occasion. And while a visit to the store is always fun, Shubie’s also offers online consultation and ordering and can deliver even to far-flung festivities beyond the beaches and beauty of the North Shore so you can keep enjoying even if you do not live nearby anymore (though I hope to go back soon!).

GREEK REVIVAL

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As it was once called the Athens of America, it makes sense that Boston is at the forefront of the Greek revival that appears to be running through the restaurant space like an Olympic (or Boston) marathoner.

And while many popular places have followed, the Farm Grille & Rotisserie in Newton and its sister store, Greek International Market in West Roxbury, have been leading the pack for over 25 years.

Whenever I want to get my Greek on in a fresh and friendly flash, a visit to the Grille always fits the bill(e). But when I want to get the authentic ingredients that make this family-run restaurant and caterer so great or to explore the larger realm of Hellenistic hunger helpers, the Market has all I need….and MORE!

In addition to freshly-imported Greek spices and wines (including Retsina) to imported meats and other prepared foods (including their famed octopus salad!), as well as hand-crafted cheeses and Greek yogurt, an olive bar and enough olive oils and Greek pastries for the Spartan army, the Market offers honey-based health and beauty aids, toys and gifts, and customized gift baskets that are perfect for any occasion. 

Speaking of occasions, the Market has an Aegean Sea-full of fish and a farm-full of plant-based options that are perfect for Lent or just for eating healthy! And Proprietor Katerina Iliades recently debuted a line of children’s clothing for communions and baptisms that will be on display at a VIP fashion show on March 23 at the Maliotis Center in Brookline!

Everyone seems set on catching the healthy and delicious Mediterranean diet train. As is true of so many other things, we in Boston are ahead of the curve, thanks in great part to the Iliades family and their great pair of places to eat.    

EFFIE-N GOOD!

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As I have been bringing my book on the Ivy League and my live author interview series to more venues (such as the Needham Library, where I will be interviewing everyone’s favorite radio host, Jordan Rich, on April 30), I have had to find more snacks to bring for my guests to enjoy as they linger to buy books and talk with the authors.

That is why I always have boxes of Effie’s Homemade on hand!

Based on the traditional Nova Scotian oatcake, these family recipe-based, hand-crafted cookies and crackers (ahem- “biscuits”) are made in Dorchester, MA and available all over (including at my book events!).

From their original Halifax-helped oatcake and European-inspired rye biscuits to their hearty and historically-accurate corn cakes and stone-ground wheat pecan biscuits, Effie’s are perfect for wine and cheese parties, mini PB&Js or just straight out of the box. There are also recipes at https://effieshomemade.com to inspire your next sensational snack!

For those with a taste for sophisticated sweetness, Effie’s also offers aromatic almond biscuits, bold and snappy ginger biscuits, brain-boosting walnut biscuits, and decadent cocoa biscuits.

No matter which you pick, all of their biscuits come in giftable boxes and samplers and many are also available in individually-wrapped two-biscuit servings that are just right for a satisfying snack or something special to share

While becoming a loyal customer is not hard, Effie’s even offers a reward program for those of us who enjoy their wonderful wares on a regular basis!

Come be a guest at my author events and you too will have that opportunity!

In the meantime, use MattsMeals20 to get 20% off at https://effieshomemade.com/

FA-SHIZZLE MY TWIZZLE

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During a recent trip to Scandinavia, I enjoyed visiting Hamlet’s castle and shopping at IKEA, but the best part was surely having my fill of authentic Scandinavian licorice.

I have been a fan of the sweet and chewy stuff for as long as I can remember and I always love trying new varieties and flavors. That is why I am such a fan of America’s own Wiley Wallaby!

Wiley Wallaby’s family-formed licorices are among my favorites. And as they have so many flavors – including classic red and black, as well as blueberry, pomegranate, huckleberry (whatever that is!), and their latest- lemonade – Wiley has a taste for every taste and even offer pre-mixed combo packs so you can get more fruit and fun in every fistful!

If you want big flavor in small packages, Wiley makes candy-coated licorice “drops” with sweet or super sour fruit-flavored shells. For those of you who prefer organic versions that may be closer to the flowering Fabaceae from which licorice comes, they have classic black, strawberry, mixed berry, and tropical flavors that are all made with organic cane sugar and real fruit juice and without artificial colors and flavors. And if sugar is the issue, they also offer treats with only one gram per serving! 

No matter which flavors you pick, Wiley Wallaby licorices are all filled with vegan flavor and easy on the teeth (especially as they have no high-fructose corn syrup). 

As they say in Sandanavia- Skål!