Nothing says summer like a weekend camping trip! My family and I go on at least one weekend camping adventure every summer. We chose a location that isn’t too distant. (I don’t like to spend most of the weekend driving), load up the car with all of the camping necessities, and pack a cooler full of delicious (and healthy) camping food!
Getting out of the city and into nature is so important. It gives us a chance to slow down, turn off cell phones, computers and our busy minds, and connect with each other! Many studies have shown that spending time in nature makes us healthier and happier human beings. What could be better?
When most people think about camping with children they envision roasting marshmallows over a campfire. I remember doing this as a child. The quest to find the perfect pointy stick, my parents explaining how to roast the marshmallow to prevent it burning, the inevitable burnt marshmallow smell filling the air, and the heaven of indulging in it’s gooey deliciousness. Such fun!
What is not so much fun is the ingredients in the average marshmallow. At the top of the list is high fructose corn syrup. Conventionally grown corn is one of the top GMO (Genetically Modified Organism) crops which I do my best to avoid for a multitude of health reasons. Other nasty ingredients include non-organic gelatin powder from conventionally raised factory farm animals and artificial color such as Blue #1. Artificial food colourings may contribute to allergies, hyperactive tendencies, and even cancer. A good reason to avoid them at all costs.
So, I decided to try making my own marshmallows! On our most recent camping excursion I modified a recipe by The Wellness Mamma to make a healthier version of this sweet treat. While I realize there is still quite a bit of sugar in this recipe I am more comfortable in knowing exactly what my children put into their bodies. We also limited the number of marshmallows they were allowed to have and dug into other naturally sweet fruits as well. All in all it was a hit.
Check out my Recipe for London Fog Marshmallows. Give them a try and let me know what you think … and happy camping! 🙂
