January - Healthy Eating & start of #C25

Being January many of us embark on a diet or exercise regime.

I have been going to Weight Watchers for a few months and was doing really well having lost a stone but then along came Christmas and it all went rather pear shaped and I put on 4 1/2 lbs in December.

I am now trying to lose that again before setting a target. (So far lost 2 1/2 lbs of Christmas weight).

I thought I would share my favourite healthy eating recipes over the next few months.

Beef Stew- This can be eaten freely on Filing & Healthy days if you are following Weight Watchers.

Frylight
500g Lean Beef Stewing Steak
1 Onion
1 Leek
Carrots
Potatoes
Peas
700mls Stock (Beef or Vegtable)
Salt & pepper to taste
Herbs to taste

I also sometimes add tinned tomatoes, tomato puree, mushrooms, runner beans.  You can really add whatever veg you have or like.

If doing in a pan on the hob -

Spray a large saucepan then add the stewing steak a little at a time, so that it sears and browns.

Add the onion, carrots, leeks and stock. Season with a little salt and pepper. Bring to the boil then reduce the heat and simmer, partially covered for 2 hours. You may need to add more stock.
When the meat is tender add the potatoes and cook them until tender – about 20-30 minutes. Stir the peas into the stew and cook gently for another 3-4 minutes.

I usually cook this in the slow cooker. I bung everything in except the peas or runner beans.  Leave for 6-8 on low.  Add pea/runner beans 30 ish mins from end.

Chicken wrapped in bacon with potato wedges - Eaten freely on Filling & Healthy weight watchers

Chicken breast, wrap in bacon with all fat removed. Cook for 25 ish mins.
Potato wedges. You can either slice potato into wedges & parboil before draining & putting on a tray with frylight or
Microwave potatoes for 5-10 mins depending on size & then slice (be careful as will be hot) & put on the tray with frylight.
I sometimes flavour with paprika, garlic salt or normal salt & pepper.
These will need to be cooked for 25 ish mins.

I serve with baked beans or broccoli, peas & carrots or a salad.

For exercise I have embarked on the couch to 5k programme. I've completed 6 runs using the app & have enjoyed it but its hard. I'm not a natural runner & haven't run since school.  I commence the next phase Friday which is longer runs inbetween walking. Wish me luck!