Dear Home Ec 101, I was hoping you might be able to explain how a water bath thaws out a chicken faster than sitting on the counter when the water is colder. Also, why is it safer ? It seems to me the water would just be a good place for germs to grow. Signed, …
Ivy says: Well, it’s been a week since I started the great Kraft and Sam’s Club dinner planner, so it’s time to give you guys an update. First, let’s talk about the shopping. As you all know, I’m a fan of warehouse store shopping- there’s nothing that thrills me more than a giant thingy of …
Heather says: Below every sink is a shut off valve. A simple way to prevent water waste is to use this valve to turn down the flow. This is especially helpful for households with family members or roommates who cannot grasp the idea that there are more than two flow speeds for water: off and …
Ivy says: About 80% of the people I know would describe their house as “comfortably lived in.” That title is not always accurate. I remember some people Mr. Ivy knew that described their house that way and a couple of years later, Child Protective Services came in (this woman also described herself as a great …
Heather says: Part of kitchen bravery is revisiting an unsuccessful attempt and trying again. So this week I researched spring rolls and invited my friend Heidi over to offer guidance. I am happy to note that this week’s attempt was full of both awesome and win. We even experimented with a dessert spring roll I …
We were in the mood for tomato soup and grilled cheese. So we started Googling. After all, the best recipes are often found at your fingertips. We picked out and modified a recipe. Here’s what we came up with. Tomato Soup Ingredients: 5 very ripe tomatoes, seeded and roughly chopped 1 large onion, sliced thinly …
Ivy says: Some events that transpired today reminded me of how most people are eager to help you whether they know you or not. It really helps to know people, but sometimes even a complete stranger will go out of their way to help you out when you need help. My story: I need a …
Heather says: I’m not a gardener, but I’m lucky enough to have family that is into that sort of thing. Produce is rolling into my mother’s garden faster than she and my stepfather can eat it. We are the lucky recipients of the excess. This weekend I had planned on preparing three tomato pies for …
Ivy says: This is a dual-sided confession this week. Confession #1: I forgot to post this today. I was supposed to do it this morning, but I totally forgot. Oops! The second confession is this: I said last Sunday I was going to get all my laundry finished. I didn’t. It just got too hot …
Heather says: Sometimes there are just a few things to share that aren’t exactly in one category or another. One of my big summer projects is re-photographing some of my favorite recipes that don’t / didn’t have great pictures. If you’ve been reading for a while, you’ve probably heard me mention tomato pie. I love …