For our last anniversary, Dad-oo treated me to my very first bread machine. I know, romantic isn’t? Actually, that’s what I asked for, and it is one of my favorite anniversary gifts every.

Since I’ve had the bread machine, I’ve kind of turned into a bread-making freak. I use it at least twice a week, sometimes more if I’m really in the mood for some carb-loaded goodness. Bread, dinner rolls, hot dog buns. Pizza dough, cinnamon rolls and English muffins. Mmmmmm, now I’m hungry.

I’ve been experimenting with a bread recipe fort he last couple of months, trying to perfect it so I could share it with everyone. Now, it’s finally ready. Tada! A healthy, whole wheat bread that isn’t too heavy, with a slightly sweet and nutty flavor. And when it’s fresh from the oven, it makes a killer PBJ.

Just pop in the wet ingredients.

Then add the dry.

Set the program, and in a few short hours, your bread is ready. Plus your house smells heavenly.

Flax Seed Bread, Whole Wheat and Wheat Germ Bread

2-pound loaf – mix ingredients int he order recommended by your bread machine

1-1/2 cups water
3 tablespoons canola oil
1/4 cup honey

2 cups bread flour
1-1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1/2 cup toasted wheat germ
1/3 cup nonfat dry milk
3 tablespoons falx seed
1-1/4 tablespons gluten
1-1/2 teaspoons salt

2-3/4 teaspoons bread machine yeast

Mix the ingredients in the pan according to the order recommended for your bread machine. Set the crust on medium and program for the Whole Wheat cycle (or Basic cycle). Press start. This recipe may be used with the Delay Timer too.

When the baking cycle ends, immediately remove the bread from the pan and place it on a rack. Let cool to room temperature before slicing.

This recipe is part of the Mouthwatering Monday Blog Carnival over at A Southern Fairytale. Stop by for more mouthwatering recipes.

Over the last 6 months or so, I’ve really been making an effort to eat more whole foods. I make my own granola bars and pizza dough. Whole grain oatmeal pancakes. Just to name a few of my favorite recipes.

But sometimes, canned foods are a necessity. They are convenient, cut down the time needed for recipes and are super tasty. I always buy my beans canned. Soaking them just doesn’t appeal to me, plus canned beans are already clean and prepared, all you have to do is open the can and add to your favorite recipe. And did you know that canned foods are just as healthy (sometimes healthier, like tomatoes) than uncanned foods? You can learn more about canned foods by watching this video.  Tomato paste, green chilies and diced tomatoes are another favorite.

One of my favorite recipes to make with canned food is our family recipe for White Chicken Chili, a great, spicy twist on traditional food. This is the perfect meal for a cold winter’s night, snuggled up on the couch, watching your favorite football game. Pair it with some a buttery, cheesy garlic bread and a spinach salad and you have a health and delicious meal.

White Chicken Chili

2 15 oz cans navy beans, rinsed and drained
2 14 oz cans low-sodium chicken broth
1 cup water
1-1/4 cup chopped onion
1 clove garlic, minced
2 cups chopped cooked chicken
1 teaspoon ground cumin
3/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (add more if you like it spicy)
4 oz can diced green chiles, drained
3/4 cup shredded low-fat Monterey Jack cheese

Combine all ingredients, except cheese in a large pot Cover and simmer at least 30 minutes. Cook longer for a thicker chili. Spoon into bowls and sprinkle with cheese.

This post is part of TwitterMoms.com Canned Foods recipe contest. Check out other blogger’s favorite recipes using canned foods here.

Watch the Field to Table Video

Canned Food Alliance

What are your favorite recipes using canned foods?