Rash and Lentil Walnut Burgers

So, the fussiness has been attributed to a virus that is wrapping itself up as an odd rash. Uggh. Here are some picks of what such a rash looks like if any of you need a diagnosis. It is apparently no longer contagious once it reaches this stage.




Also, we have come to terms with the fact that 13 months is kind of a tough (albeit fun and very cute) age. He is becoming quite strong-willed and tantrum-like behavior is beginning to show itself. Dramatic, head-thrown-back whining, especially when hungry and tired (if only he could sign and tell us so!!) Being held is sometimes effective, but a walk outdoors and talking about trees, birds, Tsuga and of course...cars....seems to help most of all.
Playing in a plastic pool on the deck was also a hit for a while...he actually dunked his forehead into the water very carefully and enjoyed watching the water trickle down his face.

And finally, we made some lentil walnut burgers tonight that were very good and pretty easy. I will let you know if Alder likes them. We ate after he went to bed for the night. He has pretty much been eating what we eat these days - curried lentils and super garlic whatever! He smells the best at day care!!

Here's the recipe from my staple - The Moosewood Cookbook:

I doubled the recipe and we have plenty of leftovers.
Tip: Saute veggies while lentils cook.

3/4 c dry lentils
1.5 c water
2 Tbsp cider vinegar
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 c finely minced onion
4-5 large cloves of garlic, minced
10 large mushrooms (I used an 8 oz pack of portabellas in the doubled recipe)
1/2 c very finely minced walnuts
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp dry mustard
black pepper to taste
1/2 c fine bread crumbs or wheat germ (I like both ways)

1. simmer lentils in water until water is almost all gone. transfer to bowl, add vinegar and mash well.
2. cook onions in oil for 5 minutes. add all remaining ingredients except bread crumbs and saute for 5-10 minutes.
3. add saute and crumbs to lentils and mix well. Let cool for ~ 1 hour.
4. form 4 inch diameter burgers. Fry or broil on each side until crispy on outside ad heated through.

Serve on whole grain bread with your choice of cheese, condiments (home-made BBQ sauce is my favorite!), lettuce, etc...we had a side of locally-grown steamed broccoli!

Enjoy!