Heather says: Never worry that a question is too basic or too “stupid” to ask. I was reflecting on simple techniques I’ve had to demonstrate in the past. If you are stirring anything you are worried about scorching, don’t just stir circles around the edge of the pot. Keep the spoon or spatula in contact …
Heather says: A non-blogging friend of mine recently admitted that she has never attempted to make soup. After I picked my jaw off the ground, she does know her way around the kitchen, but she finds the idea of soup intimidating. I offered to hold her hand and walk her through a few recipes. You, …
Heather says: Did you know there is a standard measurement for the amount of batter? When a recipe calls for the tins to be filled 2/3s full use 1/4 cup of batter. If the tins are to be filled 3/4s use 1/3 cup of batter. Some cooks use ice cream scoops in these sizes …
Heather says: Have you been laying out good money for boxes of croutons? Look what you’re getting in a box of Marie Calendar’s Classic Seasoned Croutons: How about making your own croutons for a fraction of the cost and without all the unpronounceable ingredients from leftover bread? This is a wonderful use for day-old or, …
Dear Home Ec 101: How long will butter last in the freezer? ~Freezing my Assets Heather says: It depends, at 0°F butter will last 6 – 9 months and still retain its quality. I have frozen it for much longer with no noticeable change, but our deep freeze is only used for long term storage. …
Heather says: Time and again I hear people lamenting their inability to cook. It’s a skill that takes practice; start with a basic, forgiving item like today’s French toast If you have children, involve them in the process, it will help them become comfortable in the kitchen. This is a great way to use up …
Heather says: First, I’ll apologize to everyone with preschoolers who now has a song stuck in their heads. There is no need to wait until you have been suckered into bringing something to a pot luck or picnic to make an appetizing fruit salad. With the recent heat wave, I thought a cool fruit salad …
Heather says: When looking for the perfect watermelon: Check the stem. It should be present, but shrunken and discolored. Look for a symmetrical fruit. Check the underside, buttery yellow is a good indicator of ripe flesh. Finally don’t be shy, smack that sucker, it should have a deep tone. If it sounds dull, the melon …
Heather says: For very creamy oatmeal simply allow the oats to soak in the cooking water. I measure the rolled oats and water when I make my morning coffee. I then cook as directed when the kids decide to grace me with their presence. If you’re in a hurry, you can add non-fat dry milk …
Dear Home Ec 101: Flash Freeze, does that involve liquid nitrogen? ~Slushy Dear Slushy: Well, for some industries, such as commercial fishing, it could. However, here at Home Ec 101, we are only equipped with the usual appliances and baking supplies. Flash freezing is simply a term used to mean freezing an item as quickly as …