Gifts in a jar are popular ways to acknowledge neighbors, teachers and co-workers during the holiday season. But, do you really want to give your friends and neighbors a gift that includes layers of sugar and refined flour? Instead, try one of these healthy gifts in a jar. The ingredients are easy to find. If you have a warehouse club membership, most of these ingredients can be purchased in bulk and at a discount. The recipes also come together very quickly--just pour the ingredients in a large bowl and stir. Then fill your glass jars and you are done. Traditional canning jars work great for these recipes, but any clean glass jar will work as long as the opening is large enough to pour the mixture in. In fact, even food grade plastic bags will work. For a nice added touch, tie on a pretty ribbon and attach the cooking instructions. These recipes yield approximately 3 pint jars of mixture.

If you want to give a slightly more elaborate gift, put a jar of the soup or rice mixture in a basket with some broth and a loaf of whole grain bread. Now your friend has supper for one of those hectic holiday evenings. For family and close friends, you could also tuck a gift certificate to a local health food store in the basket. Package the oatmeal recipe in a pretty plastic bag and present it in a lovely new oatmeal bowl. If you enjoy crafting, you could personalize plain glass jars with a painting or special message. Use these recipes to get started and let your creativity take over!

Lentil Stew
6 cups lentils
3/4 cup dried minced onion
2 tablespoons celery salt
2 tablespoons Spanish thyme
Mix one cup of the stew mixture with 4 cups of vegetable, chicken or beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30 minutes.

Mushroom Rice
4 cups brown rice
2 cups dried mushrooms
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1/4 cup dried minced onion
1 tablespoon dried parsley
Mix one cup of the rice mixture with 2 cups of vegetable, chicken or beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 40 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed. Salt and pepper to taste.

Chocolate Date Oatmeal
4 cups quick oats
2 cups chopped dates
1 cup cocoa powder
Mix 3/4 cup of the oatmeal mixture with 1 cup of water. Microwave for 1 to 2 minutes. Top with a swirl of honey for added sweetness.


Buy Reusable Plastic Storage lids from Amazon