Wednesday, March 31, 2010

How to create a family heirloom cookbook

Almost every family has a treasured recipe, handed down through generations, that is not only beloved because it is delicious, but because it evokes memories of favorite family get-togethers.

A family heirloom recipe book is a wonderful way to combine favorite dishes and family folklore. According to Cheryl Wolf, a performance artist and graphic design instructor at The New England Institute of Art, "Family recipes are a valuable resource for a family history. I have built an entire performance around my family's recipes and the stories they evoke! "Breaking bread" together is life-affirming. What better way to reach back and bring personal history to the present?"

Wolf adds, “A family recipe is also a family history, and can be a wonderful work of folk art.” For example, she says, take the opportunity to not only write down family recipes for generations to come, but include famous family stories (every family has them), photos and memorabilia as well.

But how to turn family culinary gems into actual recipes? Try these few tips: “Start with a family letter, asking everyone to send back one or more of their ‘specialties’ by a particular date. Ask those who can to reply by email so you can cut and paste recipes right into your final document.”

If you have a relative who never writes down recipes (it seems like all the best recipes are never written down), but rather cooks by "a dash of this, a little bit of that,” consider having someone in your family be the “helper,” and prepare the dish along with them. The “helper” should measure, guesstimate, and generally keep track of how the dish is prepared, including cooking times and temperatures. The “helper” should also be sure to ask about consistency, color, texture and doneness. “This last bit of information is always the most important part of passing along a recipe.” Once you have a written recipe, prepare it again according to the directions, and adjust the recipe as necessary to get as close as possible to the original.

When you are asking for recipes, provide everyone with a similar format. For example, ask family members to list the ingredients to be used in order, together with the quantities. Lay out the steps that are needed in order to make the item, and always add little comments about what to look for as the dish is prepared, and when it is done. It can be a lot of work, especially with recipes that were never written down. But ultimately it’s worth it because you will be saving an important -- and delicious bit of your family’s history.

Once you have the recipes, you will want to create a look for your cookbook that reflects your family. A simple way to do this, is to include family mementos or old photos, along with the recipes. A simple way to share one-of-a-kind memorabilia is to take them to a local copy center and make color copies.

“You can use the color copies you make as background, and print a recipe over the photo, or have the recipe on one page, and a photo on the facing page. You can also create a collage using items such as blue ribbons (won for a cooking), tickets stubs or airplane tickets from a favorite trip that produced a great recipe,”

For text, use simple fonts like Times Roman or Arial so that they are easy to read for all ages. Save decorative fonts for recipe titles or chapter headings. Consider creating a box -- with shading and borders -- for the recipe itself so that there is enough contrast between the recipe and any background artwork you use.

Write an introduction about the cookbook, its organization and how family responded to the project. Be sure to date the book and have a table of contents so family and friends can easily find a favorite recipe. Here are a few of these suggestions for organizing recipes:

* by category, for example, appetizers, soups, salads, entrees and desserts

* by family, for example, grandmother, aunt and uncle, or cousin recipes

* by holiday, for example, favorite dishes for the 4th of July, Thanksgiving or Labor Day

To keep recipes easy to read and clean, consider putting them in plastic sleeves (available in craft and office supply stores) and then in 3-ring binders. “This way, you can add a new recipe every year.”

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How to cook with fresh herbs

Herbs are fun and easy to grow. When harvested they make even the simplest meal seem like a gourmet delight. By using herbs in your cooking you can easily change the flavors of your recipes in many different ways, according to which herbs you add. Fresh herbs are great in breads, stews, soups or vegetables. Every time you add a different herb you have completely changed the taste.


If you are a beginner start slowly, add just a little at a time adjusting as you go along until you have it just right. You will see in most instances that an individual herb is associated with a particular food item. Basil is paired with tomatoes, Oregano with sauces, Rosemary with lamb and Chives with butter or cream cheese. Of course, none of them are limited to these items, but you will see them paired most often with that particular food. Use your imagination and experiment, experiment, experiment!


You can make herb vinegars for salad dressings, marinades, or soups. Herb oils are very useful in cooking whenever a recipe calls for it.


Fresh herbs as garnishes dress up any dish making it look truly spectacular. Lay individual sprigs of rosemary over broiled lamb chops. Chop fresh parsley and sprinkle it over the top of your potato salad. The combinations are endless and the outcome delicious.


Fresh herbs will keep in the refrigerator for several days but then you must freeze them. They can be frozen by laying them a paper towel and putting them in a plastic bag. Once they are frozen only use them in cooking not as garnishes. A friend of mine washes them, puts them an ice cube tray, covers them with water and then freezes them. When she needs them for soup, stews or sauces she just drops a cube in.


My favorite herbs to grow are basil, oregano, lemon balm, parsley and mint. Mint is great but be careful, mint can over run your garden. A tip here would be to bury an empty coffee can and plant the mint in it. The can prevents the mint from “creeping” all through your garden.


I love to make herb butters. Take a half of a cup of softened butter and mix in about 4 tablespoons of a fresh herb. Lay out a piece of saran wrap, place the butter in the middle roll the saran wrap up to form a “log” out of the butter. Put in the refrigerator and anytime you need a pat of butter just cut it off the “log”. (Hints for “log” butter: potatoes, bread, steaks, noodles or any kind of sauce).


A fresh herb in any salad dressing really makes it sparkle. You can use any herb or a combination, be creative.


I learned a trick a long time ago using basil, lemon and avocados to create and instant natural face mask. Put a big handful of basil in a blender and run it on high. Once the basil has been pulverized, throw in a half of an avocado and a large teaspoon of lemon juice, mix until smooth. Wash your face, pat it dry and gently rub the avocado mixture on. Leave it on as long as you like, then use warm water to it wash off.


These are just a few ways you can use fresh herbs from your garden. I am sure you will come up with many more. Happy cooking
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How to Cook Turkey on Natural Gas Grills

The holidays bring with them thoughts of carving and serving delicious turkey dinners to your family and friends. Tradition has its fans, but perhaps this year you'd like to try a twist to your turkey recipe. If you have a gas grill and enjoy the smoky flavor of grilled meats, why not try grilling your turkey this year? It's not only possible, it is rather simple. And it delivers a delicious flavored bird to your table. Plus, having the turkey on the grill instead of the oven leaves you with all the room you need to prepare the rest of your dinner in less time.

When you are ready to buy your turkey, the first thing to consider is the size of your grill. You don't want a bird that is so enormous that it can't fit on the grill rack. Ideally, the turkey you select should sit on the grill and the lid should close without touching the bird. If this isn't possible, don't worry, you can still grill your turkey. You'll need some heavy duty aluminum foil and either a V shaped grill stand or another metal cooking instrument that you can safely use to prop open the lid of the grill.

Prepare and stuff the turkey as you normally would. Place it on the grill so that it is positioned over one burner that you can turn off. Turn that burner off and the other burner or burners on. Since you can't really "flip" a turkey, you want the turkey to cook by indirect heat, not by a direct flame underneath it.

You get the smoky flavor by using wood chips. If you haven't used wood chips before, they're easy to use. You soak them in water so that as they dry out from the heat of the grill, they'll release a flavored smoke that infuses the turkey. You can purchase a tray that is designed for putting wood chips on the grill or you can make one yourself from heavy duty aluminum foil. Take the wood chips out of the water and put them into your tray. Place the tray on the grill over the lit burner.

Next, close the lid fully if possible. If not possible, prop the lid up just enough to keep it from touching the turkey. Then cover the remainder of the opening with aluminum foil. If heat gets out you will probably have to cook the turkey longer. However, the foil creates enough of a barrier so the smoke is kept circulating inside the grill and flavoring the turkey.

The time required to cook the turkey will vary depending on whether or not you were able to close your grill completely. If you can, it will take less time. If you can't, you might want to increase the heat on the other burner or burners to try to make up for the lost heat by having to prop open the grill. After a couple of hours, rotate the turkey 180 degrees to help ensure even cooking.

As with any method of cooking poultry, it's important to make sure that the internal temperature of the meat reaches 160 degrees Fahrenheit. Ideally you should use a meat thermometer to monitor the temperature as you cook. If you don't have one, then you'll have to check the readiness by poking the thigh with a fork or skewer. If the juices that run out are clear and the turkey has turned a nice golden-brown color, then you are ready to remove it from the grill. Consider glazing the turkey with a sauce you use on other meats, or possibly adding barbecue sauce to the traditional cranberry sauce as a condiment. Don't be afraid to experiment - enjoy the new twist you're putting on an old family tradition.

How to cook a turkey

The most important thing to keep in mind is that a turkey takes a long while to cook through to the bone...and keeps on cooking once you remove it from the oven. Make sure to bake, braise or roast the bird at a high enough temperature to keep it safe to eat and don't overcook it. Don't leave your turkey in the oven to keep it warm while you get the rest of the dinner ready to serve. Take it out as soon as it's done, let it cool outside the oven for about 20 minutes and then carve away. You'll see the difference immediately when a turkey is prepared properly: the dark meat soft enough to break apart with a fork - the white meat moist and tasty. The secret is all in knowing how to buy and cook a delicious turkey! We're here to help you learn how to cook a turkey.

How big a turkey should you buy? You'll need at least 1 to 1½ pounds of turkey per person if you're buying the whole bird, fresh or frozen. Of course, it's always best to go bigger. (After all, there are at least 50 ways to serve your turkey leftovers, including a winter store of turkey soup.) How long to cook? Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C) then place the bird in the oven to roast.

A thought to consider--Great chefs suggest trying out your skills with a smaller bird before attempting to produce a holiday masterpiece. Like any other skill, perfecting a turkey recipe takes practice. Very few cooks can claim that their first turkey was perfect...but with every attempt you get more comfortable with what you're doing and the results keep getting better.

Simple steps how to cook a turkey:

Allow about 15 minutes of cooking time per pound - about 45 minutes per kilo unstuffed. It will take a bit longer, about 20 minutes per pound or an hour per kilo, if the bird is cooked with stuffing.


1. Preheat oven to 325. Remove the wrapper to see how much the turkey weighs and determine approximate cooking time. Remove the giblet bag and the neck from the turkey cavity. Wash the turkey inside and out and pat skin dry with paper towels.

2. Place turkey breast side up on a rack in a shallow (about 2 inches deep) roasting pan. Insert meat thermometer in thigh. Add 1/2 cup water to the bottom of pan, if desired.

3. Cover turkey loosely with a tent of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Roast the turkey until temperature in the thickest part of the thigh reaches 180°F. Cooking time will vary. For example, a 20 pound turkey will take 4 1/4 to 5 hours to cook, check the temperature on the thermometer after 4 1/4 hours.

4. Meanwhile, mix the stuffing or dressing. Place in a casserole and pop it into the oven during the last hour or so of roasting time.

5. Remove the foil tent after 1 to 1 1/2 hours of cooking time to brown the skin. Brush with vegetable oil to enhance browning, if desired.

6. A whole turkey is done when the temperature reaches 180°F. The thigh juices should run clear (not pink) when pierced with a fork and the leg joint should move freely.

7. Allow the turkey to set 20 to 30 minutes before carving to allow juices to saturate the meat evenly.
Note: Cooking times do vary. Why? There are many reasons - oven temperature may not be completely accurate, the turkey may be very cold or partially frozen, and/or the roasting pan may be too small which inhibits the flow of heat. The USDA highly recommends use of a meat thermometer to determine doneness of turkey. This is an important tool in learning how to cook a turkey.

Stuffed Turkey:
For uniform cooking results, the USDA recommends cooking the stuffing outside of the bird (see step 4 above) If you insist on stuffing the turkey, stuff loosely and follow the steps below.

1. See step one above

2. Mix stuffing and lightly fill cavity. Allow 1/2 to 3/4 cup stuffing per pound of turkey. It is safer to understuff than to overstuff the turkey. Stuffing expands during cooking. Refrigerate any leftover stuffing and bake in greased casserole during the last hour of turkey roasting time.

3. Place turkey breast side up on a rack in a shallow (about 2 inches deep) roasting pan. Insert meat thermometer in thigh (see Turkey Safety: Using a Thermometer). Add up to 1/2 cup water to the bottom of the pan, if desired.

4. Cover turkey loosely with a tent of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Cooking time takes longer for a stuffed turkey. For example, a 20 pound stuffed turkey will take 4 1/4 to 5 1/2 hours to cook.

5. Remove the foil cover after about 1 to 1 1/2 hours of cooking to brown the skin. Brush with vegetable oil to enhance browning, if desired.

6. A whole turkey is done when the temperature in the thickest part of the inner thigh reaches 180°F and the stuffing is 165°F. The juices should run clear (not pink) when a long-tined fork is used to pierce the thickest part of the thigh.

7. Check the internal temperature of the stuffing. Insert the thermometer through the cavity into the thickest part of the stuffing and leave it for 5 minutes. Or use an instant red thermometer which will register the temperature after 15 seconds. The stuffing temperature will rise a few degrees after the turkey is removed from the oven. If the center of the stuffing has not reached 165°F after stand time, return the turkey to the oven and continue cooking.

How To Cook A Tender Juicy Steak

You invest a lot of time and money into the steaks for a special occasion and when dinner time comes, they are tough. What happened? How can you cook steaks as tender as your favorite restaurant?

The first step to cooking a good steak is to choose the right grade of steak. The top quality beef is graded USDA Prime and commands top prices. USDA Prime grade meats are sold to the restaurant industry and specialty markets and are not as likely to be found at your local grocery chain. The next grade of beef is USDA Choice. USDA Choice is tender, flavorful and only slightly lower in quality than USDA Prime. The meat is well marbled with fat and will be tender and juicy when properly prepared. USDA Choice makes up about 70% of all graded beef and is readily available in your supermarket. USDA Good graded beef is an acceptable grade of beef that has only minimal marbling of fat. It is leaner, but may not be as tender as USDA Prime or Choice.

Next, look at the color and texture of the meat. A good steak should be firm to the touch, moist, and bright in color. It should be well marbled with thin streaks of white fat throughout and a thin crust of steak on the outside. In our fat conscious society, we tend to look for lean cuts of meat, but the thin streaks of white fat marbled throughout the meat are the key to a tender juicy steak.

The most tender and juicy steaks come from the sirloin, the short loin, and the rib. These steaks include the sirloin steaks, porterhouse steaks, t-bone steaks, rib steaks, delmonico steaks, and the filet mignons. Steaks containing bone will weigh more than those without, but the bone adds flavor to the steak.

Aging is a desirable process that intensifies the flavors and makes the meat more tender. Aged steaks are more expensive and usually only found in high end supermarkets and specialty markets. An aged steak is recognizable by its darker color.

Once you have purchased your steak, you can further increase the tenderness and juiciness by marinating it. Try a marinade made of ½ cup each good wine and olive oil mixed 2 Tablespoons of lemon juice or herb vinegar. Add any seasonings that you like such as garlic, freshly ground pepper, onion, or herbs. Place the steak in a ziplock bag, pour in enough marinade to just cover it, and refrigerate overnight. Marinating a steak like this will add flavor and tenderness. If you routinely store steak in the freezer before cooking, try pouring the marinade over the steak before freezing. The steak will marinate when thawing and be ready to cook.

There are meat tenderizers available to sprinkle onto your steak, and they certainly do tenderize the meat; however, meat tenderizers can sometimes over tenderize the meat, changing the texture of the meat into mush. If you should choose to go this route, do it carefully.

When ready to cook, slash through the outside fat layer on the steak in a few places to prevent curling, but do not cut into the meat. The more tender steak cuts can be broiled, grilled, or pan fried. Less tender cuts should be pan fried or slow braised. Steak should never be cooked in liquid. When pan broiling, use a very heavy skillet such as an iron skillet or griddle and heat the pan before adding the meat. The heavy metal will hold the heat for proper heat distribution and not cool down when the steak is added. A hot pan will quickly sear the outside, trapping the moisture inside.

When cooking, try to turn the steak only once. Cook the meat until browned on one side and half done, then turn and finish the other side. Turning too often will stew the meat rather than searing it and produce a less juicy steak. When the steak is done, remove from the pan and allow to rest for a few minutes before serving.

While the meat rests you can make a sauce with the pan drippings if desired. Use your favorite sauce, or fry mushrooms and onions in the pan. When nearly done, add a tablespoon each of butter and flour and cook until lightly browned. Add a splash of wine and loosen any bits that may be stuck to the bottom of the pan. Allow to cook until thick, taste and adjust seasonings, and serve over the steak. Enjoy!

How to Clean and Fillet Fish

Fish is one of the most wholesome foods that man can eat. In fact, people have been eating fish throughout human history. These days, many cooks yearn to add fish to their repertoire, but the whole process of cleaning and filleting fresh fish is a little scary to them. The process of cleaning and filleting fresh fish is relatively simple once the steps are understood.

To begin, you must clean your fresh fish properly in order to maintain it's quality during the remaining steps of processing. First, use a knife or fish scaling tool to remove all of the scales. Removing the scales early on is a key to easy fish cleaning. Next, remove the fish head by cutting just behind the first set of fins. Now, insert your sharp knife into the area where you just removed the head and make a slit in the belly of the fish. You will want to slit the fish belly all the way down to the vent next to the tail. This should open up the cavity of the fish and you can pull or cut away any viscera or organs from inside the fish. The next step is to cut away any additional fins that the fish may have. Do this by cutting into the fish in a circular motion around the fins and remove them. Finally, rinse the fish body and cavity under cold, running water. Now that the fish has been properly cleaned, you can move on to filleting.

Begin the fish filleting process by laying the fish on one side and inserting your knife into the fish body almost to the backbone. Guide your knife along the backbone, exposing the fillet as you cut. You will have to lift and separate the flesh from the bone as you cut. Next, repeat this process for the other side. Once you have created the two fish fillets, place them skin side down and cut through the flesh next to the tail. Do not cut through the skin next to the tail, as you will hold onto this skin as you separate the skin from the flesh. Insert your fillet knife between the flesh and the skin and use a back and forth motion to separate the two. Rinse the fillets with cold water and be sure to dry them before storing or using.

These simple and easy steps are all that it takes to make the most out of fresh fish. With these steps in mind you can prepare fresh fish for any meal.

How To Choose The Perfect Bread Maker

Bread makers are extremely popular. The average person can make delicious, homemade bread quite easily with a bread maker. Even with the ease of a bread machine, you must still use caution when adding the ingredients, even if you use a mix. You can make a variety of shapes and sizes of loaf with a bread machine. Many people use a bread machine to simply mix the ingredients then bake the loaf in a traditional oven. Sizes range from one pound to two pounds or more, and you will most likely choose between a square or round loaf pan.

Some bread makers will have a preheat cycle to heat the ingredients before baking. If you want your bread to rise properly, choose a bread maker that does not heat before time to bake the bread. Bread makers will generally have separate settings for different types of bread. There may be settings for wheat or French bread, and you will be able to choose the doneness of the bread such as a light, medium, or dark setting. There will also normally be a regular or rapid bake cycle. It is desirable to have a window in the top or side of the bread machine to allow you to see the progress of your bread while it is baking.

There are a variety of options from which to choose in bread makers, so you may first want to consider how much space you have to store your new machine. Bread makers come in a variety of sizes, so choose one that you can store easily. You should choose the capacity of the bread maker based upon how big your family is and how much bread they eat. You can choose a bread maker with a delay timer which will allow you to place the mix in the bread maker before you leave home each day and the bread will be ready when you return. If you want your bread maker to prepare the dough but not cook it, you will need to find a bread maker with this feature. Choose a bread maker that will alert you when it is time to add additional ingredients such as fruit or nuts. You will also want a "keep warm" feature in case you are gone when the bread is finished. Look for crust control features and special setting for fruits, nuts, cheese, and vegetables.

Study the warranty very carefully to make sure you will be able to get service and replacement parts if necessary. Keep in mind that if your family consumes a small amount of bread now, once you purchase your new bread maker that consumption is likely to increase dramatically. Choose a slightly larger size that you anticipate needing. Remember that the keep warm feature is great, but if you leave the loaf in the bread maker for an extended period of time it may become soggy and flat. A bread maker is a wonderful addition to your home. Nothing compares to the smell of freshly baked bread from your very own kitchen.

How To Barbeque Perfect BBQ Ribs

If you are grilling BBQ ribs on a regular charcoal grill, then you’re probably frustrated when you find that your ribs are tough instead of “meat falling off the bones” tender. If this is the case, then you can learn how to barbeque perfect ribs easily by preparing your ribs properly in advance, before you ever place them on your grill.

Most master grillers prepare their ribs first, before cooking them on a charcoal grill. This is why some grillers cook perfect ribs every time. Usually at a BBQ event, guests see the cook placing the ribs on the grill, never knowing that work was done beforehand to get the ribs ready. Those new to grilling assume that the cook is just brushing sauce on the ribs, and then cooking them until done directly on the grill and this isn’t always so.

To prepare your ribs, first bring a large pot of water to a boil. You should do this the day before your BBQ event or dinner. Add a bit of salt to the water, and then bring it down to a simmer. Add your ribs, cover and simmer them for 1 to 2 hours and then carefully remove them from the pot. Your ribs should be tender and juicy now, but you shouldn’t place them on the grill just yet.

Place them in a large bowl, add your BBQ sauce, cover and refrigerate this overnight. This provides ample time for the ribs to marinate in the sauce, to produce that rich BBQ flavor that everyone loves so well.

The next day, light your grill and let the coals die down to warm glowing embers. You should never BBQ your ribs over an open flame; this can burn the sauce and ruin the flavor of your BBQ ribs.

Once the flames have died down, brush some more sauce on your ribs and place them directly on the grill. Cook for 10 minutes, brush some more sauce on the top of the ribs, turn and cook the other side for 10 minutes. Continue cooking the ribs in this fashion until they are fully done, turning your BBQ ribs every 10 minutes while adding fresh sauce at every turn.

Once your ribs are done, place them on a serving platter and serve while they are still hot. Your guests will go crazy over your delicious, juicy and tender ribs. This is the proper way to cook perfect BBQ ribs. If you just throw the ribs on a grill, without preparing them first, then your ribs will be very tough and not very good no matter what type of sauce is used.

BBQ sauce is used to add flavor, not to cover up inferior cooking. Don’t you owe it to yourself and to your dinner guests to go that extra mile, ensuring that your ribs are not only tasty, but also mouth watering tender? You’ll be known as the best BBQ rib griller in your area. Especially if you combine your juicy and tender ribs with your very own homemade BBQ rubs, sauce or marinades instead of using those pre-bottled sauces provided in local grocery stores.

How To Achieve Victory In A Cooking Contest

Competitions are still one way of really gauging the strength of a person or even of a product. People join contests to prove their worth or if not try to see how they could respond to the expected comparisons, the consequence of beating the competitors off.

For the performing Arts like dancing, people realize a next door out. Contests involving the need show talent or ability, sets criteria in choosing the most wanted winning throne. One problem in contests is the incidences of fraud caused by contest organizers, some unfairness from the jurors or judges.

There is one contest that is far from the flaws mentioned above. It is the cooking contests. Cooking is a good past time and as a contest it I has the most unbiased results. Does it end there? No of course. There are helpful steps to join in debates and to go home away with the bacon.

1. Read and follow directions carefully. Directions are part of the contest. A misunderstanding will cause a big effect if neglected.

2. Creativity is the key. Watch food trends and adapt your recipe accordingly. Try to use your own means to discover ways on how to keep your skill improving.

3. Do not use abbreviations. If asked to write the recipe down, show industry and do not use short cuts.

4. Simplicity and ease of preparation make winning recipes. Do not act hurried or look so pressured.

5. Use accurate U.S. measurements. Measurement will affect the taste of your recipe so be keen about it.

6. Garnish is very important. Always remember--eyes eat first. Catch attention and later the taste.

8. Analyze recipes that have won previous contests. There may be a trend in the taste of judges or organizers.

9. Be sure ingredients used are readily available. For you not to cram and destroy your own show, be very prepared.

10. Keep up with current diet and health trends. Health is wealth.

11. Write preparation directions in complete sentences. Think of the receivers of your work. Consider their understanding. And how you could help.

12. List ingredients in order of use.

13. Study your favorite cookbook.

14. Be creative when naming your dish.

15. Streamline a recipe by combining steps.

16. Adapt a recipe for a different occasion.

17. Create a recipe using ingredients that were once considered unusual but are now readily available in your grocery.

18. Consider a dish's versatility.

19. Look for ways to enhance flavor.

20. Create a new shape or appearance for an old recipe.

21. Include the size of any dish, pots, pans, or casseroles used.

22. State the cooking temperatures and time needed to cook the dish.

23. Give the number of servings. Be realistic. "Serves four" is different from "four servings."

24. The recipe should have wide appeal.

25. Type or print your recipe.

26. Double-check the contest rules.

27. Make a copy of your recipe. Always make a copy of your recipe for your files.

28. Use a separate envelope for each recipe entry.

29. Your recipe must be original. Originality is a very big edge over others. It will show how creative one really is.


Cook. Express. Win.

How Much Propane Is In Your Tank?

Propane tanks used to be included in the purchase of a gas grill. Not anymore.

As a result, propane tanks have gone high-tech, and you may want to pay attention when shopping for a new cylinder.

One of the new tanks on the market now actually lets you see the level of gas left in it. The Lite Cylinder is made from a translucent composite material that makes it easy to see how much liquid propane (LP) is remaining in the tank--which means there's no longer an excuse for running out of gas while hungry diners wait in frustration for dinner to finish cooking.

Another big difference is that the 20-pound LP cylinder weighs about 30 percent less than a traditional steel cylinder.

The casing around the tank is made from molded plastic, which also contributes to the decreased weight. With many more women barbecuing today and millions of aging baby boomers still barbecuing, this lighter cylinder is sure to be popular. The casing is offered in a number of colors, lending a designer touch to every backyard. The cylinder is available currently in beechwood, red, blue and yellow. Unlike steel, it is corrosion-and rust-free. It is also low maintenance because the exterior can be cleaned readily with soap and water.

In January 2006, Good Housekeeping recognized The Lite Cylinder with one of eight of its 11th Annual Good Buy Awards given to new household products that solve common problems and are excellent values. It noted that this composite cylinder is easy to fill, easy to attach to a grill and easy to handle due to its light weight. A Good Housekeeping editor who demonstrated some of the winning products subsequently featured it on "Good Morning America."

Now when it's time to select a propane cylinder for the new grill -or even a patio heater or mosquito trap-you have more options than ever before.

Thursday, March 25, 2010

Hot Diggity Dog! Preparing The Perfect Frank

Let's be frank: Americans love hot dogs. In the U.S., people on average eat 70 franks each year. Although consumers do "relish" their dogs at certain events-baseball games, barbecues, picnics, etc.-hot dogs are a favorite dinnertime meal for the family or a quick convenient snack when on the go. Quite simply, hot dogs are a staple of the American diet.

When it comes to preparing a great-tasting hot dog, how you cook and dress it isn't as important as the frank you choose. Besides the traditional all-beef variety, there are hot dogs for every taste bud, including turkey for the health conscious or ones with robust flavors that are perfect for the grill, such as the new GrillMaster franks.

Speaking of the grill, while microwaved and boiled hot dogs are popular, 60 percent of Americans prefer their hot dogs grilled, according to the National Hot Dog and Sausage Council. Sara Lee Executive Chef Brian Averna is a self-proclaimed "foodie" and has perfected the art of grilling hot dogs. His tips include:

• DO prepare the grill by coating the rack with vegetable oil or cooking spray. This will prevent food from sticking and will ease cleanup.

• DO use tongs to gently turn hot dogs to avoid accidental cuts or holes that would cause natural juices and flavors to seep out.

• DO use pure and clean lump charcoal to prevent foreign substances or impurities from altering the flavor of your franks. Also, allow at least 30 minutes for the coals to reach the proper glowing white-ash stage before you begin grilling.

• DO use mesquite chips and keep the grill covered while cooking if you like the "smoky" flavor.

Once your hot dog is ready, pile on the toppings. Remember, dress the dog, not the bun. Condiments should be applied in the following order: wet condiments (mustard, chili), followed by chunky condiments (relish, onions, sauerkraut), then shredded cheese and, finally, spices such as celery salt or pepper. Different regions of the country have different variations of their favorite hot dog topping recipe, but there is no right or wrong way to top a hot dog.

Grilling Tuna Steak For A Simple Gourmet Meal

Looking for a delicious and simple way to grill up that fresh tuna steak that you just caught or bought from the local seafood market? Grilled tuna steak is a delightful and exciting entree for any special meal. There are various methods to spice up and flavor your catch, but today we want to talk about a popular method using wasabi powder. This unique spice is being used by many top chefs to add a special flare and flavoring to the tuna.

Assemble the following recipe ingredients:

• tuna steaks, cut to a thickness of 3/4 inch to 1 1/2 inch each ( your preference )
• 4 to 6 ounces of butter
• 1 cup of teriyaki marinade
• 1 tablespoon of wasabi powder
• 2 chopped green onions
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil, peanut oil, or vegetable oil
• salt and pepper to taste

Get started by marinating the tuna in the teriyaki marinade. Place the tuna into the marinade and completely coat both sides of the meat. Cover, place into the refrigerator and let the tuna sit and marnate for an hour or more, overnight is good too.

When ready, start up your grill and get it good and hot, but not too hot. Ideally bring it to the same temperature as if you were grilling a regular beef steak on the grill. Then mix the wasabi powder, butter and the green onions together and place it aside for the time being. Once the grill is to the ideal temperature and you are ready, then brush the oil onto the tuna steaks and season the meat with salt and pepper to taste. While grilling, periodically baste the tuna with the left over teriyaki marinade. This will help to keep the tuna moist and add additional flavor. Cook until they are done to your desired temperature, then serve with the butter. You can also let some butter melt on the tuna fillets as they are cooking as well.

Alternative set of recipe ingredients and marinade flavoring:

• tuna steaks, 1-inch thick
• Sesame oil
• 1 rounded tsp. cornstarch
• 1/3 c. rice vinegar
• 1/3 c. mirin
• 1/3 c. soy sauce
• 3 tbsp. minced crystallized ginger

Popular tuna species:

Tuna is a popular, delicious and rich tasting seafood that is prepared in many ways. It is perfect for grilling, sautee, and broiling. The flesh of tuna is pink because the tuna's muscle tissue has a higher oxygen capacity than other fish species.

• Bluefin: An important source of seafood, providing much of the tuna used in sushi. It is a particular delicacy in Japan where it has been reported that the price of a single giant tuna can exceed $100,000 on the Tokyo fish market.

• Yellowfin: found in open waters of tropical and subtropical seas worldwide, though not in the Mediterranean Sea. It has been reported to be up to 94 inches in length and 440 lb in weight. The second dorsal fin and the anal fin are both bright yellow, thus the common name, and they are very long, as are the pectoral fins. The main body is very dark metallic blue, changing to silver on the belly.

• Albacore: found in the open waters of all tropical and temperate oceans, and the Mediterranean Sea. It is a prized food, and a significant fishery. Methods of fishing include rod and reel, long-line fishing and purse seining and are highly sought after by sport fishers and recreational fisherman.

• Bigeye
• Blackfin

Grilling Tips For The "Dog Days" Of Summer

Grilling is going to the dogs. According to the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association, 81 percent of Americans own a grill and average grill usage is up to 26 times per year. And, with three-quarters of dog owners saying they consider their dog like a member of the family, more and more owners are including their four-legged friends in the barbecue fun.

According to grilling guru Kent Whitaker, author of Smoke in the Mountains Cookbook: The Art of Appalachian Barbecue, "Grilling is a family affair and today our dogs are like part of the family. My dog Moses is my grilling assistant who keeps it fun and entertaining, while we all enjoy the real meat aromas on the grill."

Whitaker, a past winner of the Emeril Live Food Network Barbecue Contest, and Moses have teamed up with ALPO brand dog food to teach dog lovers how to include their four-legged friends in the backyard barbecue fun. They are offering grilling demonstrations and the following tips at ALPO "Beefstro" events throughout the country.

Great Smells Mean

Great Flavor

Use marinades, rubs, sauces and different woods to add extra flavor to your barbecue favorites. While you're manning the grill, have another family member keep your dog entertained with the savory smells from his favorite dog treat. Hold the treat in front of his nose and ask him to perform a simple trick, such as sit or stay for a food reward.

Relax With Fun and Games

While the food is cooking, play fun games the whole family can enjoy, including tag, hide 'n go seek and fetch. Make sure you have balls, flying discs and chew toys to help your dog work up a healthy appetite.

Include A Place Setting

Create a theme for your barbecue and make sure all of the decorations and table settings match. And, when it's time to sit down and enjoy the feast, don't forget to set a place setting for your four-legged family member. Put a placemat and bowl on the ground by your table and serve your dog a hearty, healthy meal of ALPO Chop House Originals brand dog food with the real meat taste he craves.

Live A Little

Don't be afraid to experiment and try new things at your next family barbecue. Try new sauces, appetizing dips, breads and side dishes such as Tex-Mex Tater Salad and Fire Baked Beans. And, to give your dog even more excitement at mealtime, feed him different forms and flavors of his favorite food.

Leave the Clean Up for Later

Family affairs such as backyard barbecues are special times to be savored. So take advantage of having the whole family together and leave the dishes for later. Serve a grand finale dessert while sharing favorite family stories and end the festivities by taking an evening stroll with your canine companion.

Grilling Secrets for the Perfectly Grilled Steak

There is nothing quite like a good, juicy steak cooked on a grill. But, many people don't know grilling secrets such as the best cuts to use, what size they should be, how long to cook the steaks, and marinades to use.

Choosing the correct cut of meat is very important when grilling. Some of the best steaks for grilling are the premium cuts such as:

- Filet Mignon
The filet mignon is a stylish cut taken from the heart of the beef tenderloin that has outstanding taste as well as texture.

- Top Sirloin
The top sirloin is a juicy cut taken from the center of the sirloin - the tenderest part - and a great cut for grilling.

- T-Bone
The t-bone is a succulent cut that is a favorite of steak fans. It is both a strip sirloin (with the bone) and a tender filet mignon.

- New York Strip (sometimes known as Kansas City Strip)
The New York strip is such an excellent cut for grilling, many grilling experts refer to it as the "ultimate" steak for cooking out.

- Porterhouse
The Porterhouse is a very large steak that is actually a combination of two steaks: the New York strip on one side and a tender filet on the other.

- Rib Eye
Another classic cut, the rib eye has marbling throughout the meat - making it one of the juiciest cuts as well as very tender.

Thickness of the steak is very important. Each cut should be between 1 inch and 1 ½ inches thick. The strip steaks and top sirloin should be a little less expensive than the filet mignon, t-bone, porterhouse, and rib eye.

Many people like to marinate their steaks before cooking. You can purchase marinades in the grocery store (A1 brand offers several different types) or make your own. If you are not opposed to using alcohol, beer makes an excellent marinade. You can combine 1 12-ounce can of beer, ½ cup of chili sauce, ¼ up of salad oil, 2 teaspoons of soy sauce, 2 gloves of crushed garlic, and 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard. Let that simmer for 30 minutes over a medium heat. Marinate your meat in the mixture overnight in the refrigerator to tenderize and allow the meat to absorb the flavor. You can also brush your meat with the marinade as you cook. Another great homemade marinade includes 1 ½ cup of steak sauce, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1/3 cup of Italian salad dressing, 1/3 cup of honey, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder.

Many people prefer to use a rub on their steaks rather than marinate them. A rub is a combination of spice and herbs that is rubbed on the meat about an hour before grilling. It adds a great flavor to the meat, but is quicker than marinade as it does not require the overnight soaking. An excellent recipe for a rub that will give your steaks a smoky flavor is 1 tablespoon of chili powder, onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, cracked black pepper, white pepper, and kosher salt plus 2 teaspoons of oregano, 1 teaspoon of coriander, and ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper. If you use a rub, be sure to rub the mixture into the cut of meat, not just daub it across the top.

There are other options for cooking steaks other than marinades and rubs. Many times, filet mignons are served wrapped in bacon (held on by a skewer) or you can cut your steak and combine it on a skewer with vegetables like peppers, squash, and onion to make a shish kabob.

Coat your grill with non-stick kitchen spray before you begin to keep your steaks from sticking to the grill. Preheat your grill before placing your steaks on. Resist the temptation to put your steaks on before the grill is properly preheated. The proper temperature for grilling steaks should be around 550 degrees Fahrenheit. Trim any excess fat from the side of the cut to prevent flare-ups and curling when grilling.

You should only turn your steaks once on the grill to prevent drying them out. How long you will cook your steak depends on how well you want it cooked. You can use a grilling fork with a digital thermometer to see how well done your steak is. If you want your steak rare, the temperature should be no more than 150 degrees when done. If you want medium, the temperature should be no more than 160 degrees when done. Finally, if you want well done, you should have a temperature of at least 170 degrees.

After grilling your steak, allow it to set for five minutes before serving to let the juices settle. Serve with a baked potato, salad or other side dish and enjoy!

Grilling Hamburgers and Sittin' on an Old Ice Cream Freezer

Grilling hamburgers, one of my earliest backyard grilling memories. Our Family would get together, usually on the weekends, and have a hamburger and ice cream supper as we say here in Texas. I can fondly remember sitting on top of the old ice cream freezer while my Dad, Uncles and Granddad took turns at spinning the old hand crank attached to the water soaked wooden ice bucket.

Today, the hoodless grill would resemble a throw away variety you would take to the beach, but then we were in tall cotton and in for some delicious eating. The ice cream would be flavored most of the time with a can of crushed pineapple. Or, just maybe, someone would have given us some fresh ripe peaches to mash and toss into the vanilla ice cream mixture.

Cooking out then was a real big treat for the entire family, always with a lot of laughter, running and playing.

Grilling the hamburgers soon became my responsibility, even though I was only about 10 years old at the time. Carefully building the charcoal fire in that old grill we had was a test of my better Boy Scout skills. Once the charcoal was covered in a fine white ash the grilling could begin.

The ice cream was being packed in more ice mixed with a generous amount of rock salt mixture to be allowed to season, while we all ate our terrific tasting hamburgers always topped with lettuce, red ripe tomatoes and onions. The catsup bottle would be passed around as everyone would take their turn, shaking or popping the bottom of the bottle to get the thick tomato sauce from the jar.

Ribs today are one of my favorite backyard treats, but the hamburgers still to this day come sliding across the plate for a delicious grilling feast.

Ah the ribs, good tender slab of ribs with the meat falling off the bone, slathered with a generous portion of smoky chipotle barbecue sauce. Just enough heat in the sauce to add a nice warm blanket right on top of your tongue. Did you know the chipotle is nothing more than the Jalapeno smoked and dried usually with mesquite wood? They are quite delicious giving a nice smoky flavor to your food.

Guacamole is also a favorite topping with just about any grilled meat, especially beef, pork or chicken. Creaming those fresh ripe avocados together with a nice garden ripe tomatoes, chopped green onions, try a little chopped chipotle as well. Season your delicious concoction with a squeeze of fresh lime juice, toss in some cilantro, salt and pepper and call it a meal by it self.

Thick juicy T-Bone steaks are a great treat as well as chicken fajitas. Fun to do because everyone gets to pile their own into a large flour tortilla made just to suit them.

Yes grilling today is just as much fun today as it was when I was growing up. The old three legged grill has long since been tossed onto the trash heap. Replaced with a big cast iron wood smoker and grill, sure I have a handy gas grill for almost daily use but nothing is better than firing up the old trusty smoker.

My great nieces and nephews are now the ones running and playing. They are always beaming with delight as the scoops of homemade fresh peach ice cream is served up with one of "Nana's" homemade cookies.

Someday though I think I will pull out the old hand cranked ice cream freezer. After all, they are missing one of the best parts of the family cookout. Sitting on the old freezer, holding it down while their Dad, Uncle and Granddad take turns cranking the old beast.

I wonder if they would sit still that long?

Tuesday, March 23, 2010

Gas Ovens

If you want to take your cooking skills up another notch then it might be time to look at changing to a gas stove.

Gas stoves are the preferred choice of professional cooks for the simple reason that they offer more flexibility.

The heat adjustments are more accurate and instant.
If you turn the gas down, the heat will lower immediately, unlike an electric stove that will take time to cool down to the lower heat setting.

Gas stoves also allow varied cooking styles that aren’t quite so easily achieved with an electric stove such as wok cooking.

Gas stoves give you the ability to fine tune the heat and with the use of a wok you can cook various different meals that wouldn’t be possible with an electric cook top.

Many people are concerned with the use of gas in the kitchen and in particular the safety aspects of using gas.

There are certain adjustments that need to be made to your cooking procedures when cooking with gas, and in particular you need to be aware of the importance of avoiding contact with the naked flame.
The latest gas ovens have many safety factors built into them that weren’t standard features several years ago.

Modern gas ovens have automatic ignition of the gas and safety gas cut off to ensure the optimum safety possible.

Another benefit of a gas cooker is the fact that they cool faster than an electric cook top when you have finished cooking.
For this reason alone many people consider using gas a safer alternative.

It is all personal preference but the ability to prepare better meals is good reason to consider buying a gas oven.

The prices range considerably, from relatively inexpensive to astronomical depending on the features that you desire, so it is wise to shop around before deciding on the gas oven for your requirements.

Monday, March 22, 2010

Get the Most from Your Cast Iron Cookware

Cast iron cookware is an old fashioned form of cookware that still has a place in today's world of modern cooking. You will find all types of cast iron pots, pans, skillets, tea kettles, and even large dutch ovens. Those who routinely use cast iron swear by it's versatility and durability. I personally think that a good set of cast iron cookware is hard to beat.

There are a few conditions that you do have to meet when using cast iron. One of these is seasoning the new cast iron items that you buy or maintaining the seasoning of the ones you already own. Seasoning of cast iron is required to promote a non-stick surface on the cookware and make it easier to clean. Another consideration when dealing with cast iron cookware is maintaining the items in an environment where they will not begin to rust. Rust is one of the true enemies of the otherwise durable product. If these two conditions are met, then the cast iron cookware that you buy today, could still be in everyday service a hundred years from now.

The first aspect of seasoning cast iron is to start with a clean pan. Take the newly purchased item and remove any adhesive from stickers, and any other foreign material that does not belong. Washing the pan with warm soapy water and then drying it completely is normally sufficient. Next, pre-heat your oven to about 250 to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. The next step is to use lard or some other animal fat like bacon grease to start the seasoning process. Avoid vegetable oils as they tend to get very sticky and can ruin a brand new pan. Coat the inside of the pan with the lard and place it into the pre-heated oven for about 20 to 30 minutes. You will want to keep an eye on it to make sure the grease doesn't get too hot and start to smoke during this process. Once time has passed remove the pan and get rid of the excess grease inside the cast iron pan. Then, put the pan back in the oven for another 20 minutes or so to finish the seasoning process. A new cast iron pan may require several treatments like this to establish a good "layer" of seasoning. What I mean is that you may have to do this a couple of times before the pan starts to become really non-stick and easy to use for everyday cooking jobs. Afterwards, you can use the cast iron to cook and it wouldn't hurt to use it to fry bacon or something fatty every once in a while to help maintain good seasoning on the pan.

As mentioned before, rust is one of cast irons true weak points. Rust can quickly turn a beautiful, well seasoned pan into a useless eyesore that you aren't quite sure what to do with. Preventing cast iron from rusting is simple if you remember a few guidelines. Always store your cast iron in a dry place. Do not keep it under the kitchen sink or hanging above your stove where it will be exposed to a steady supply of steam. Never put your cast iron away without thoroughly drying it. An easy way to dry cast iron is to place it in a hot oven for about five minutes or put it on a stove burner on high for a minute or so. This will burn off any excess water left over from when you washed it and will almost guarantee the avoidance of rust. If you do discover that your cast iron treasures have become rusted over time, there are steps to reclaim them. You may even come across a beautiful historic piece of cast iron at a yard sale or flea market and decide to revive it. Check out my article on restoring rusted cast iron cookware for more tips on reviving your rusty cast iron.

With a proper knowledge in seasoning and caring for cast iron cookware, you can enjoy all of the benefits of cast iron without all of the drawbacks that are inherent to it. With the proper care, the cast iron pans that you buy and use today can be handed down to your children and grandchildren for them to enjoy.

Sunday, March 21, 2010

Gas Ovens

If you want to take your cooking skills up another notch then it might be time to look at changing to a gas stove.

Gas stoves are the preferred choice of professional cooks for the simple reason that they offer more flexibility.

The heat adjustments are more accurate and instant.
If you turn the gas down, the heat will lower immediately, unlike an electric stove that will take time to cool down to the lower heat setting.

Gas stoves also allow varied cooking styles that aren’t quite so easily achieved with an electric stove such as wok cooking.

Gas stoves give you the ability to fine tune the heat and with the use of a wok you can cook various different meals that wouldn’t be possible with an electric cook top.

Many people are concerned with the use of gas in the kitchen and in particular the safety aspects of using gas.

There are certain adjustments that need to be made to your cooking procedures when cooking with gas, and in particular you need to be aware of the importance of avoiding contact with the naked flame.
The latest gas ovens have many safety factors built into them that weren’t standard features several years ago.

Modern gas ovens have automatic ignition of the gas and safety gas cut off to ensure the optimum safety possible.

Another benefit of a gas cooker is the fact that they cool faster than an electric cook top when you have finished cooking.
For this reason alone many people consider using gas a safer alternative.

It is all personal preference but the ability to prepare better meals is good reason to consider buying a gas oven.

The prices range considerably, from relatively inexpensive to astronomical depending on the features that you desire, so it is wise to shop around before deciding on the gas oven for your requirements.

Gas Grills – Give Warm Parties To Your Friends And Families

Gas grill is a device or surface, always fueled by gas and is used for cooking food. If you want to warm up your weekends by cooking delicious dishes for your family and friends, then you should immediately get a gas frill for yourself. When you want to purchase gas grills, you can either arrange the grills as per your choice right in the shop or allow the mechanics to choose the grills for you.

Advantages of gas grills

Gas grills are advantageous, as they do not lead to air pollution. Since they are quite small in size, so you can fix them almost at any corner of your home. Unlike the electric grills, the gas grills do not require electrical points near to the place you want to install the grills. The gas grills are flexible and can be carried from your home to the garden to prepare food for al fresco parties. There is even no risk of receiving electrical shocks in case of mishandling.

Factors needed for choosing the gas grill

For those who want to purchase the gas grill, here are some tips that will help you choose the gas grill. While you are purchasing the gas grill, you should pay attention to the quality and try to get a grill with ceramic briquettes and lava rocks. Choose a gas grill with double heat control so that you can easily control the burners. Try to look for a model with drip tray so that cleanup becomes easier. The gas grill should contain heat-deflecting panel so that heat can spread evenly.

While you should avoid gas grills with side burners as it only increases the price, you should get the side shelves nevertheless. The side shelves are very handy for containing plates and other containers.

The main factor to be considered for gas grills is the nature of the grills. You can get gas grills with hinged, stainless steel grate and wider bars as it prevents less amount of food to get spilled over the flames. If you are opting for porcelain-coated steel grates, then remember they are easy to clean but have a typical tendency to break if falls down. Cast iron grates, on the other hand, require much more maintenance because they have a tendency to rust, but they assure to sear meat in an excellent way. You can choose a gas grill with any of the following types of grill that will suit your purpose best.

You can cook a whole range of barbeques in the gas grills. Ranging from searing meats, roasting fishes, to preparing sandwiches, burgers, pastries and cookies, gas grills serve your purpose of treating people with delicious culinary delights.

Gas Grill Buying Tips For Barbecue Enthusiasts

Gas grills are a popular choice among barbecue enthusiasts. Mainly because compared to charcoal grills, gas grills are easier to clean. In addition, there are lesser accidents related to the use of gas grills and in ten minutes it is ready to barbecue. For those thinking of buying a gas grill or upgrading to a gas grill for grilling, there are a number of things to consider before purchasing one. Taking these few tips into consideration will make the search faster and easier, and in the end the grill you purchase will be more satisfying for you to use.

1. Three Levels Of Gas Grills

Entry-level

Thesegas grills are the most basic gas grills available in the market today. They are reasonable priced starting at $ 150 to $ 300. Entry-level gas grills don't need wood or charcoal and produce their own heat. With regards to this type of gas grill, it is best to choose one made of stainless steel for the frame and main body.

Mid-Range

These gas grills on the other hand are a bit more expensive but also offer more features than the basic gas grill. Prices for mid-range gas grills range from $ 350 to $ 1150. For these types of gas grills it is best to choose those made by established manufacturers in order to get a quality product.

Deluxe Models

These gas grills are the cream of the crop with prices starting at $ 1500 and most models going for more than $ 5000. High-end gas grills often make use of big BTU ratings as a selling point for them. However the brand name and materials of the gas grill should be the main concern when buying a deluxe model gas grill.

2. Basic Elements Of A Gas Grill

The basic structure of most gas grills sold in the market is fairly straightforward. The burners generate heat and some type of heat dispersal system is above the burners. On top of all this are the cooking grates where the food is placed. The equipment underneath the hood is what separates a typical gas grill from an excellent gas grill. A gas grill that has at least two or more individual burners allow for greater heat control. This provides for even heat over the cooking surface thus producing better tasting food. Drippings cannot be avoided when barbecuing, however this causes flare-ups. Certain gas grills are equipped with systems to control flare-ups and turn it into flavorful smoke to enhance the flavor of the food.

3. Understanding BTU (British Thermal Units)

Most gas grills sold in the market use BTUs as the main selling of their product. However most people don't understand the relevance of BTUs to a gas grill, let alone the meaning of BTU. BTU stands for British thermal unit, which indicates the amount of gas that a gas grill is able to burn. With gas grills, sometimes less BTU are better since it allows for food to cook more efficiently. Too much of it can damage the burners and cut short the life of the gas grill. However for larger grills, having higher BTUs is best in order to cover the larger cooking area.

4. Check For Solid Construction

It is important to select a gas grill with a stable and solid construction. A poorly built gas grill has the tendency to wiggle and may fall apart once set in place. Avoid buying a gas grill that is not displayed on the sales floor, make sure that there is a display available to be able to check out the stability of the gas grill before purchasing it. Select a gas grill that is crafted of high-grade U.S. Steel and also go for a gas grill with a baked-on, porcelain enamel finish. Check that the grates are made from either cast iron, porcelain-coated cast iron or aluminum and stainless steel.

5. Gas Grill Maintenance

When buying a gas grill it is important to consider the amount of maintenance required to keep it running for years to come. Select a brand of gas grill that provides uncomplicated yet comprehensive product information and offers a toll-free customer service line. Check if the brand provide trouble-free access to parts and services along with a reliable dealer network.

Fun, Grill & Sizzle

Beach party, picnic or just a simple get-together at home will never feel complete unless you mount gas grills on one side and start grilling your favorite fish or meat. Just the aroma of smoked fish can confer you a festive mood. In fact, it can afterwards drag you to a luscious and appetizing meal. The festive mood will be contagious and the fun will linger.

Isn’t it amazing how a simple grilling session on your front yard can trigger delightful bond and overwhelming fun? People, by nature, longs for fun and excitement. Nobody wants to sulk in one corner all the time. He sure wants to take a break and enjoy.

Every person deserves to be happy. Moreover, if you are throwing a bashing small shindig, pool party or a simple gathering, let your guests enjoy to the fullest by preparing them their favorite entertainment and foods.

For sure, just every one likes grilled foods. In order to enjoy the gathering be sure to have gas grills around.

Gas grills have metal box. At the bottom of the box, there are tube-shaped liquid propane burners which are responsible in providing the grills with fuel. Traditionally, propane or natural gas fuel the gas grills. With them, grilling is made faster and easier.

The gas grills’ burners are topped by warming the exterior of the metal bars, ceramics and lava rocks.

Modern day gas grills are more beneficial. If you want fast pre-heating, gas grills will help you do it pretty fast. Fast in the sense that it can preheat in a matter of 10 to 15 minutes.

Second benefit is its longevity compared to charcoal. One 20-pound tank can last up to 14 hours. You will no longer fret about running short of charcoal. Propane tank is more reliable, that is.

If you are worrying about the mess of grilling, worry no more. Since, gas grills do not use fire starters or charcoal, mess will be out of the situation.

Grass grills use multiple burners. They are especially designed to give superior heat control to secure easy grilling.

If you are contemplating of purchasing gas grills, here are the considerations that you have to take note of:

1. Consider having stainless steel, cast aluminum or porcelain-coated steel for a solid gas grill construction.

2. It is vital to have a built-in thermometer to check the grill temperature.

3. Lava rock system is also good in collecting grease that can result to flare-ups. Try to look for them in the gas grill that you are to purchase.

4. For easy and safe gas grill lighting, be sure to have a push-button ignition.

5. To monitor fuel levels your gas grill must have gas gauge.

6. If you can have three burners that can work separately, the better. This will give you flexibility when it comes to controlling heat.

7. For easy cleaning, the best gas grill material will be stainless steel or porcelain.

Aside from the aforementioned features, you can also incorporate rotisserie or smoker box, side burners, additional outer shelving or work space and removable secondary grill racks.

In order to have a long-lasting gas grill, maintenance is a must. Regularly check on grease catch pan so as not to create flare-ups. Check for leaks, cracks and holes. Finally, be sure to detach tanks from gas grills and keep them out-of-doors.

Thursday, March 18, 2010

Frying Without The Trans Fats

Trans fats are in the news a lot these days because a new regulation requiring that they be included on food nutrition labels is now in effect. Trans fats are created when liquid oils are made into solids by a process called partial hydrogenation. This increases shelf life and flavor stability, but at the cost of increased health risks.

These fats have been found to raise blood levels of LDL (or "bad") cholesterol. That means a significantly increased risk of heart disease.

Partially hydrogenated vegetable fats are present in about 40 percent of the food on grocery store shelves. Cookies, crackers, and microwave popcorn are big sources of trans fats, as are other processed foods such as margarines, butter-type spreads and cooking or baking shortenings, salad dressings, cakes, donuts, snack chips, chocolate candy, some breakfast cereals, French fries and other fried snack foods. As of January 2006, manufacturers are required to list trans fats as part of the nutritional information box on all food labels.

That's why there's a movement to reduce and eliminate trans fats from foods.

The new regulation doesn't apply yet to foods people buy in restaurants and other away-from-home eateries. However, food-service operators-including the big fast-food chains-know that they share the responsibility for providing good food that can be part of a healthy diet.

Most of the 925,000 restaurants in the U.S. have fryers, and those fryers use almost 18,000 tons of fat each year, much of it partially hydrogenated fat and oils. These restaurants are looking at ways to reduce trans fats in their menu items without cutting out taste, and that includes finding alternatives to partial hydrogenates.

One alternative gaining interest is an oil called low-linolenic soybean oil, made from a specially bred soybean. It was developed specifically to replace partially hydrogenated oils and can be used alone or in blends with other vegetable oils that have low or no trans fats to decrease or even eliminate trans fats in the foods fried in it.

To protect your health when you choose foods to enjoy at home, read the nutrition information panel and the ingredient label on packaged foods. And when you dine out, ask what sort of oil the restaurant is using. In both cases, you want to avoid partially hydrogenated oils and tropical oils (which contain high levels of unhealthy saturated fats). When you see "low-linolenic soybean oil," you know you'll be eating healthy.

Fresh Caught Fish Cooking Preparation

To maintain the delicate flavor of a newly caught freshwater or saltwater fish, this must be handled properly to avoid spoilage. Not to mention preserving the fish with pleasing odor. There are ways to properly prepare and maintain the quality just after the catch of the fish into a sumptuous fishmeal. Check out the tips below:

1) As soon as the fish lands avoid any contact with hard surfaces to prevent bruising. It should be washed immediately by hosing or bucket rinsing in order to remove the slime and possible bacteria that cause spoilage. Never use water from close proximity marinas, municipal or industrial discharges. To make sure, always use potable water instead.

2) Simply chill the fish to prevent deterioration in less than an hour. With a little advance planning, proper icing can be accomplished with the use of some relatively cheap equipment. Fish should be stored in coolers and should be well chilled. It should be 3" deep, thus, covering a pound of fish with pound of ice. Use chlorinated water per quart of water for the final rinsing.

3) Clean the fish as soon as possible. Their tissues are sterile but not their scales, which contains many types of bacteria. When cleaning fish, avoid rough treatment because wounds in the flesh can allow the spread of bacteria. Gutting the fish does not have to be necessarily long. It is wise to cut the belly, as it leaves no blood or viscera in the body. Make sure not to soak cleaned fish fillets in a prolonged freshwater as this could reduce the meat texture and flavor.

4) The eating quality and nutritional value of fish can be maintained up to 5 days if properly cleaned. Washing of the hands before touching the fish is also important. No matter what fish and the cooking technique used, one golden rule is to be followed always. Whether it is whole or not, cook exactly 10 minutes for every inch measured. 15 minutes should be allotted to fish enclosed in foil or sauce baked. Double the time for frozen fish.

Allow extra time if fish will be baked while packed in an aluminum foil and allow extra time for the penetration of the heat. That should be an additional 5 minutes for fresh fish and 10 for frozen. In thawing frozen fish, slowly thaw in the fridge for 24 hours or let the wrapped fish be run under cold water not at room temperature. Do not thaw a fish that's frozen before cooking as it may make it mushy and dry.

Freezable Breakfast Tacos - Easy Breakfast Idea

Looking for a quick and easy way to tackle the breakfast rush? The key to eating a nutritious breakfast is planning ahead. On busy days, it is great to have these in the freezer, ready to microwave and go.

1 dozen eggs
½ cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste
1 package frozen hashbrowns
1 pound breakfast sausage
1 jar salsa
8 oz shredded cheddar cheese
8 oz shredded monterey jack cheese
20 flour tortillas medium size
You will need parchment paper and ziplock bags for wrapping and freezing.

1. Prepare the hashbrowns according to the package directions.

2. Fry the breakfast sausage.

3. Scramble the eggs with the milk and salt and pepper.

4. Mix the hashbrowns, sausage, and eggs in a large bowl.

5. Mix the cheeses.

6. On a square of parchment paper, place one tortilla.

7. Place several tablespoons of hashbrown, sausage, and egg mixture onto the tortilla in a line, slightly off center. Amount used will depend on the size of your tortilla, but don't stuff too full.

8. Add a Tablespoon of salsa thinly along the top of the egg mixture. Sprinkle cheese on top of all.

9. Fold the ends gently in, then fold over one side and roll up.

10. Roll up in wax paper, place into ziplock bag, and repeat with next tortilla.

11. Place the tortillas into the freezer.

12. When ready to eat, place tortilla into microwave on high for ninety seconds. Add 1 minute for each additional tortilla.

Now that you've tried this recipe, be creative. Perhaps stuff the tortillas with tonight's leftover mashed potatoes and roast beef. Try ham with macaroni and cheese. Use your imagination and your leftovers to create healthy breakfasts that can be ready in a minute. Enjoy!

Fondue – Non Alcoholic

Do you want to share your love of cheese fondue with your children? Or did you just find out that one of your fondue party guests doesn’t drink alcohol? Well then it’s time to learn how to make non-alcoholic fondue. Non alcoholic fondue is great for kids and other people who for whatever their reason, have an aversion to alcohol. The white wine that provides the unique flavor to fondue can be substituted with apple cider. Apple cider will give you the great taste that you expect from fondue without the alcohol.

The story of how fondue came about goes something like this. People living through long winters in the Swiss Alps had to worry about their food supply. They ate what was on hand. At the end of the cold season, usually all that was left was hard cheeses and wine. So with some experimentation and innovation, those ingredients were combined with crunchy bread to create the first fondue dinners.

So take a lesson from the people of the Swiss Alps and use what you have on hand. Don’t worry about fondue lovers complaining that your fondue has no bite to it. Using apple cider instead of white wine is a completely acceptable solution. It taste great and will add a nice flavor to your fondue. If you use apple cider in your fondue, you will never miss the white wine.

Non-Alcoholic Cheese Fondue

1 cup Apple Cider (to mix with cheese)
1/4 cup Apple Cider (to mix with cornstarch & mustard)
2 teaspoon Lemon Juice
1 tablespoon Onion (finely chopped)
3 cups Cheddar Cheese (shredded)
1 tablespoon Cornstarch
2/3 teaspoon Mustard Powder
White Pepper (to taste)

Heat the cider, lemon juice & onions on medium low heat in your fondue pot

Slowly add the cheese while stirring
Mix cornstarch and mustard in 1/4 cup apple cider
Add mixture to cheese
Add white pepper to taste
Note: if too sweet, add more lemon juice

To Dip:

Crusty Bread cut into bite-sized pieces
Vegetables - Mushrooms, Potatoes, Cauliflower, Broccoli, Bell Peppers, etc.
Pita or Flat Breads

Filet Trout - Filet Fish! No Bones No Skin

Okay, so you have caught your limit. Now, how do you want them prepared for cooking? How about trying my favorite – filet! No bones, no skin, just all good flesh that can be cooked any way you like. I can taste it now! Don’t know how, you say? It isn’t hard but it does take practice. The easy to follow instructions are coming up next.

Tools

The first step is to gather all your tools. Also have a waist high table as a work surface. The tools you will need are a very sharp knife or an electric knife. The best knife to use is a filet knife. Since a filet knife is made just for this purpose, it helps to make the job easier.

You will also need a filet board, preferable one with a strong clamp to hold the trout’s head firmly. If you can’t find a board with a clamp, get a pair of gloves textured for gripping.

You will need a bucket or pan of salted water to put fresh trout filets in.

Tip: soaking the filets in slightly salted water overnight helps to remove some of the fishy taste, giving them a milder, more pleasant flavor.

The last thing you will need is a bucket to put the carcasses in after you cut off the filet.

Filet: the nitty-gritty

To begin the process of cutting off the filets, you need to secure the trout so it doesn’t slip around. If using a board with a clamp, firmly clamp the trout’s head to the board. If using gloves, grip the trout’s head firmly. Next, take your knife and cut beneath the gills to the backbone. Now turn the knife and cut down the backbone but stop before you cut through the skin at the tail. All of this cutting will be between the ribcage and the flesh. You are basically cutting off the entire side of the trout. Next, flip the filet over with the skin side down. Cut between the meat and the skin. The process is the same for the other side of the trout. After you have cut both filets off of the trout, cut off any of the ribcage that may have been cut off with the filet. This is about all you need to do as far as deboning trout when filleting them. It is okay to cut into the ribcage, but don’t cut too deep and cut the guts. Remember, these fish have not been gutted!

Now that you know how to filet trout, you also know how to filet fish in general. It is the same no matter what kind of fish it is.

All the trout are now filleted and you are ready to cook them. So, how do you like them cooked, batter fried, baked, broiled or grilled? Personally, I like grilled best. If you are going to grill them, don’t forget to invite me over. I’ll bring the corn on the cob.

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Famous Names In Barbecue

They are grilling celebrities in their own right. You've seen them on TV and you see their cookbooks lined along the shelves of your local bookstore. They may have different backgrounds and a variety of cooking styles, but just like you, they all share the same passion and that is for grilling and barbecues.

Bobby Flay is one of the most successful chefs who specialize in grilling and barbecues. In 1991, Flay's restaurant, Mesa Grill opened and was dubbed as the Best Restaurant by New York magazine. In 1993, Chef Bobby Flay was voted as James Beard Foundation's Rising Star Chef of the Year. It was during the same year that his other restaurant, Bolo opened. Bobby Flay's love affair with the grill can be best experienced through his TV shows, BBQ with Bobby Flay, Hot Off the Grill with Bobby Flay, and Boy Meets Grills, as well as his cookbooks Boy Meets Grill, and its sequel, Boy Gets Grill.

Larry Gerber a.k.a. The BarBeQue Man. Dubbed as the BarBeQue Man or simply Que, Larry Gerber has become the face and voice of virtually anything related to grilling and barbecues. His company, Barbeque Man, does endorsements and promotions of various barbecue-related products, events, and issues. Apart from being a personal chef, he also writes for different national culinary publications, hosts a TV show called Culinary Adventures, and can be heard on many radio stations in the upper Midwest as he talks about the fine art of barbecuing and grilling.

Mike Mills is often referred to as The Legend in the world of grilling and barbecuing because of his family's treasured barbecue sauce. Between 1989 and 1994, his team, the Apple City BBQ team won hundreds of awards and accolades in various barbecue competitions. They even hold the record for being four-time World Champions and for being three-time Grand World Champions, which no other team has ever bee able to beat so far. Today, Mike Mills owns 17th Street Bar & Grill in Murphysboro, IL and has published a book entitled, Peace, Love, and Barbecue: Recipes, Secrets, Tall Tales, and Outright Lies from the Legends of Barbecue in 2005.

Steve Raichlen is a journalist, cooking teacher, award winning author and PBS TV host. His best-selling Barbecue Bible cookbook series (more than 2 million copies in print) and Barbecue University TV show on PBS has changed the American barbecue for the better. In August, 2003, Raichlen defeated Iron Chef Roksbura Michiba in a bbq battle on Japanese television. Some other fmouus quotes about Raichlen include: Oprah called him the “Gladiator of Grilling” and “Howard Stern hailed him as the “Michael Jordan of Barbecue.”

Now, aren't you just inspired to get out there and cook the most amazing barbecue recipes yourself? Not a problem – get your grill ready, hit your local meat shop or grocery store and logon to InsaneChicken’s BBQ Sauce Catalog and get their delicious recipes ranging from barbecue to vegetarian recipes. And of course, check out their wide range of sauces and marinades to further make your grilling dishes insanely bold and daring.

Fairtrade, Organic or Locally Produced Food?

Should I buy food and products that support workers in Third World by buying Fairtrade labelled products even though these goods normally travel thousands of miles from Africa, South America or South East Asia? What if these foods were produced with the use of pesticides and additives? It makes sense then to look for and to buy Fairtrade, organic food to both help the producers in the Third World and fulfil my lifestyle choice to eat healthy and additive/pesticide free food. Thankfully, many producers are now wising up to this dilemma by increasingly producing organic and Fairtrade labelled products. I am currently using Fairtrade, organic t-bags at home! Now comes another important question, should I buy Fairly Traded organic sugar from Kenya that has travelled thousands of miles, or should I buy apples grown in the UK (ideally from a farmers market) that have only travelled only a few hundred miles which means less carbon dioxide and other nasty emissions from the lorries that you see constantly on the motorways in the UK? Buying UK products not only ensures less food miles but also supports local farmers, communities and economies. Unfortunately, choice is often limited and can be more expensive then food produced in other countries……… Decisions, decisions, it’s probably best to abstain from eating and give your choice making brain a rest!

But I can safely say that I make attempts to avoid food or products that have travelled from far away destinations such as Australia even if they are organic! Next time you are in the supermarket or wherever you buy your food from check the labels and you will be surprised by how far your food has travelled. Also look at the amount of unnecessary wrapping such as individually wrapped peppers, mushrooms and kiwi fruit in wrapped boxes. When I buy from the local market I tell them to throw it all into one bag, the customer next to me often has 10 individually wrapped portions of fruit and veg. That’s 11 (10 plus one big plastic bag) bags into the landfill site that day. For maximum eco efficiency we need to be using jute or other bags made from recycled materials and putting all the loose food into that. For recycled bags, Fairtrade and Organic companies, products and food see GuideMeGreen’s Green Directory.

Monday, March 15, 2010

Ever Think About Getting A Barbeque Pit?

The barbeque pit has been around for ages. Some people claim that barbequing in the pit is better then cooking in the kitchen.

Barbeque pits came out around 1920. But they only became popular in the 1950 when practically everyone owned one. Back in those days more people had family and friends gathering and big cook outs, but now it’s hard to find time for all of that. But even if you use it once in a while it’s still wroth having.

You might find it challenging looking for a BBQ pit, but the best place to look for them is on the internet. There you can see how to build one from scratch; it’s not as hard as it sounds.

But before starting anything, be sure to check with your city, if you’re permitted to do so. Some may even require inspections before or after you build it, so be careful. Don’t just start making something in the back of hour house. See if you’re allowed to first you don’t want to get in trouble and pay a fine.

Take some time to research before you go see them. Decide if you want to add electricity or a gas burner, because their might be additional permit that are required, they might even ask you to have the electrical stuff be installed by a professional to ensure safety.

You’ve got to also decide on how extravagant of a pit you want. Do you want something simple or do you want to go all out. Think about how much you are willing to spend and your need. There are many optional features that you can have put in; in the end it’s up to you. There are many things to consider, such as what type of grill do you want, do you need a grill to place the food in or a place for the fire that is well ventilated.

There are boundless things to remember, like are you going to make the pit withstand the harsh climates that you may encounter. Think about the type of weather you receive. Think about where you’re going to place it, be sure that it looks good before you start building it.

If you need any help just look for books and check out the internet. Use all the resources you have before embarking on this big project.

European Teapot: Teakettle That Settled The West

The European Teapot has become an American heirloom that most of us thought originated here. Craftsmen and glassblowers from Europe have immortalized their craft for the American market where most European Teakettles are sold as gifts.

A teapot makes an attractive gift selection that adds character to a kitchen and is practical for daily purpose. A vast amount of history and culture is attached to the teapot. Its invention dates back to the sixteenth century. The aim behind creating this kitchen staple was to provide a vessel to brew and serve tea.

Tea has been a popular beverage since its discovery in the third century. The tea plant was first cultivated in the fourth century. This plant is actually a tree of evergreen variety and can grow up to a height of about 50 feet. However, for cultivation purposes, it is usually pruned into bushes and allowed to grow up to a height of five feet.

The discovery of tea has debatable origins. Some give credit to the Chinese Emperor named Chen Nung who reigned during the third century. It is said that he once sat under a tree to boil water for drinking. The leaves of the tree Camellia sinensis dropped into his bowl. The resultant mixture was so tasty that it prompted tea making.

Some attribute the discovery of tea to a Dharuma Buddhist monk who went to India from China in the fifth century. It is reported he discovered a brewed drink from the leaves of the tea plant which assisted in keeping him alert and awake.

Tea making, as practiced in ancient times was not as simple as it is today. In the eighth century, tea leaves were rolled manually and then dried. These dried leaves were ground into a powder, mixed with salt and shaped into cakes. To make tea, a cake was dropped into a bowl of boiling water to form a thick fluid. In the later years, the loose powder began being used. The powder was mixed with hot water and a froth was whipped up, steeped, and the mixture was poured.

Teapots were first introduced in China during the Ming Dynasty. They were made of purple clay called "zisha". Teapots were also known as teakettles and used in Europe only after 1610, when the Dutch importers introduced tea there. In the eighteenth century teapots were made of porcelain and contained artistic paintings on its rounded surfaces. The English added their touch by mixing bone ash with porcelain clay to give it a freshly distinct look. The evolution of the teapot spanned hundreds of years to attain its present form. Today teakettles can be found in large varieties ranging from clay, porcelain, glass to even stoneware.

There are certain factors to be kept in mind while selecting the right
teapot. The European Teapot is the most sought after of all teakettles. Do remember to check the following:

1.. Looks - A thing of beauty is a joy forever. Selecting a European teapot that is visually appealing is the first step. It should look good enough to make a person long to use it. An attractive teakettle becomes a conversation piece and makes you want to show it off to your guests.

2.. Material - The right material is based on the use you want to put it to. A clay or porcelain teapot is a good idea if you only want something to serve tea in. A special glass teapot is ideal if you want to avoid unnecessary hassles as you can brew as well as serve tea in it. It is sturdy enough to be used on the stovetop and at the same time, it makes for pretty tea ware for your guests.

3.. Handle - Ensure that the handle is of a material that does not get heated making it difficult to hold. This should be especially looked into while buying a stovetop teapot. A handle that gets hot on heating will only serve to increase your troubles and the risk of burning your fingers.

4.. Flow - A good teapot is one in which the liquid will flow out smoothly through the spout without any risk of leakage. If the teapot is equipped with an infuser, its even better, as the tea will automatically be strained on pouring.

5.. Tightness - Keep in mind to check that the lid of the teapot is
tightly fitted. This will ensure that tea will remain hot longer and is an essential for brewing good tea (in a glass teapot only).

6.. Gravity center of the teapot - Try this small test. Fill the teapot with water to three-fourths of its capacity. Lift and pour the water into a cup. If you find any difficulty or if the hand becomes unbalanced, the teapot's gravity center is not right. Reject such an item immediately.

The style of European teapot is an ideal kitchen gift for any virtually any occasion - a birthday, anniversary or Mother's Day.

Elegant Entertaining Without Breaking The Bank

Good news for the next time you're considering hosting a party. You don't have to feel dizzy, overwhelmed and full of questions: I don't have a creative bone in my body-how will I decorate without spending a fortune? What will I serve? You can relax and take a deep breath. Here are a few hints on how to create an affordable elegance that you can enjoy just as much as your guests.

How will I decorate without spending a fortune? You don't have to spend huge amounts of money on anything that will only be used once. Start by looking around your home and see what you can use to complement a specific theme. For example, if you're hosting a luncheon for family or a group of friends, gather potted plants from inside and outside your home and place them in the dining area for a lush, garden theme. Make place cards by writing each guest's name on a leaf.

For an inexpensive table centerpiece, head outside! Fill a long platter or wicker basket with pinecones, fresh fruit, nuts, small white birch logs and baby pumpkins. The Pampered Chef, the premier direct seller of kitchen tools, has some beautiful and versatile tabletop pieces to help you, such as a Woven Selections Rectangle Tray or Simple Additions® Entertaining Set. Finish off by sprinkling dried flower petals around the table. You'll be surprised at how much fun you can have and how much money you'll save simply by using your imagination.

What will I serve? Here's where most people worry needlessly. If you are making a main course, keep it simple and stick with what you know. Take advantage of convenience items such as prechopped vegetables or rotisserie chickens. Don't be afraid to ask friends or family to bring a simple side such as a marinated salad or potato dish. For less formal gatherings, purchase snacks that your guests can graze on-mixed nuts, cold cuts, crackers and exotic cheeses, prepared salads and fresh salsa and chips. The Pampered Chef® has many simple yet sensational recipe ideas to help you get in and out of the kitchen quickly, so you can join your friends in the festivities. To please even the most discriminating palate, serve an elegant appetizer such as Baked Brie. Along with your favorite beverages, and festive music, you're well on your way to hosting this year's "Affair to Remember!"


Baked Brie with Apples

& Cranberries

Prep time: 15 minutes


1/2 cup chopped apple

(1/2 medium apple)

1/4 cup sliced natural almonds

1/4 cup dried cranberries

1 tablespoon packed brown sugar

1/4 teaspoon Pantry Korintje Cinnamon

1 tablespoon butter or margarine, melted

1 round (8 ounces) Brie cheese (about 4 inches in diameter)

Crackers or cocktail bread slices


1. Preheat oven to 350° F. Coarsely chop apple with food chopper. Combine apple, almonds, cranberries, brown sugar and cinnamon in small batter bowl; mix gently. Stir in butter just until ingredients are moistened.

2. Cut Brie in half horizontally using utility knife. Place one half of Brie, rind side down, on small bar pan. Spoon half of the apple mixture onto bottom half of Brie, spreading evenly. Top with remaining half of Brie, rind side up. Spoon remaining apple mixture over top. Bake 12-15 minutes or until cheese is soft and just begins to melt. Serve with assorted crackers or cocktail bread slices. Yield: 8 servings

Easy Summer Grilling Success

Summer evenings are so beautiful, you just need to move outside. Clean off the grill and prepare to enjoy these long leisurely evenings. Here are some tips to be sure your next barbeque is a success!

1. Heat the grill. If using charcoal, allow plenty of time for the coals to reach the proper temperature and be tinged with ash. Spread the coals out in an even layer. You can make a double or triple layer on one side of the grill and a single layer on the other for better heat control.

2. A flavorful aromatic smoke adds to the aroma and penetrates the food to add a distinctive flavor. You can use wood chips that have been soaked in water and apply directly on top of the coals. Or pick fresh herbs from your garden such as rosemary, marjoram, thyme, bay leafs or oregano and lay onto the coals. Do not use green wood, or any wood that has been treated for use as lumber.

3. Lightly oil the grill surface or spray with Pam. Or oil the food lightly. Careful, too much oil will cause flare-ups.

4. Pre-heat the grill with the lid closed for 10 or 15 minutes. On charcoal grills, the coals should be glowing red with white ash forming, this can take a little longer.

5. Choose a good piece of meat. Meat that is higher in fat marbling will produce a juicer BBQ product. Much of the fat will cook away during cooking anyway. Excess fat on the outside of the meat should be trimmed, this fat does not help the moisture content of the food and will cause flare-ups.

6. Brush the food with a water or vinegar based marinade and place the meat or vegetables on the grill. Be careful not to overcrowd the food. Ideally meat should be marinated for 1 hour or more before grilling.

7. Use pieces of meat less than 1 – 2 inches thick. Grill on a hot grill and keep the lid down except when brushing with marinade, checking for doneness, etc.

8. Cook on one side for half the cooking time, then brush the top with additional marinade and turn to cook the other side. Avoid turning more than needed, as this can prevent caramelization.

9. Keep a spritzer bottle handy to help deal with flare-ups. If flare-ups occur, move the food to prevent burning. Usually, moving the food is enough to control the flare; however, your can spritz with a fine mist of water if needed.

10. Barbeque sauces usually contain a lot of sugar and will burn if applied too soon. Apply sauce as the food is almost ready to remove and cook only long enough to just set the sauce- 10 minutes or less.

11. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Avoid pricking the meat unnecessarily as juices will drain away.

12. Enjoy!

Sunday, March 14, 2010

Discover Your Kitchen Personality

What kind of cook are you? Do you prefer to get up early to prep the evening meal? Are you simply too crazed to even think about dinner until after work? Or are you one of those who are able to find a balance in between?

These are some of the questions I ask in "Kitchen Life," my new book in which I quiz readers to help them determine what kind of cooks they are. I've developed recipes and techniques that go along with an individual's cooking and kitchen management style.

The quiz results show me that lack of time is the biggest barrier in the kitchen. The right tools, though, can help with that.

Among my top five time-saving kitchen essentials is a vacuum-packaging appliance. My favorite is made by FoodSaver. Whether you're trying to preserve meals you've prepared in advance or maintain the fresh-cooked flavors and textures of leftovers, this appliance is an easy way to get more out of your time in the kitchen.

As you plan your meals, you can save a lot of time if you look for recipes that allow you to use your leftovers. I call these recipes "kitchen workhorses" because one batch can yield several different meals.

When preparing a recipe to eat now and use later, the key is vacuum-sealing the leftovers to maintain freshness and prevent freezer burn. Take my Chili Shepherd's Pie with Buttermilk Potato Topping, for example. I start with my Kitchen Workhorse Chunky Beef Chili. The chili is great as a stand-alone, but it's also a key ingredient in several spin-off recipes.

Then, I vacuum-package the extra chili with my FoodSaver appliance and freeze the remainder in controlled sizes to use later for other recipes, like my tasty Soft Beef Tacos or Chili and Macaroni Casserole. Voila! From one meal, many.


CHILI SHEPHERD'S PIE WITH BUTTERMILK POTATO TOPPING

(Makes four servings)


2 pounds Yukon Gold

potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

1/2 cup buttermilk, preferably at room temperature

1 quart Kitchen Workhorse Chunky Beef Chili (found on page 150 of "Kitchen Life"), heated

1 1/2 cups fresh or thawed frozen corn kernels

1/3 cup (about 2 1/2 ounces) shredded sharp cheddar cheese


Position a rack in the center of the oven and preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Lightly oil an 8-inch square baking dish.

Place potatoes in a medium saucepan and add enough cold, lightly salted water to cover them by 1 inch. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to medium and cook potatoes until tender, about 20 minutes.

Drain potatoes and transfer to a bowl. Add the butter. Mash potatoes with a masher or an electric mixer on low, gradually adding the buttermilk. Season with salt and pepper.

Mix the chili and corn in the baking dish. Spread the potatoes on top of the chili and sprinkle with the cheddar. Bake until the cheddar melts and the topping is tinged with brown, 15 minutes to 20 minutes. Serve hot.