There is something truly special about receiving a homemade gift. Creating something from scratch carries a fantastic feeling when presenting it to someone. Taking time, something we all treasure, to make a special gift for any occasion shows how much you care. Choosing something off a shelf is too easy and superficial, there is something extra special about giving and receiving a handmade present. Shopping for presents can be difficult, especially when you aren’t sure what to buy. Head to the mall, and you will find tons of gift ideas to choose from, but if you want to show someone that you care, nothing beats homemade, especially if you make…
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10 Great Foodie Gifts for Under $35
Christmas is almost here! Are you scrambling to get everything you WANT done, done? Years ago, my husband and I agreed to not buy each other Christmas presents. Instead, if we want something, we discuss the financial feasibility, and if possible – we just get it when we want it. However, you may have a few people you are shopping for and if they like to cook – I have some great suggestions. Titan Peeler/Slicer I saw this tool demonstrated at a kitchen exposition several years ago. The ability to julienne vegetables is my favorite trick; for example squash or zucchini noodles. You can cut in any direction and they…
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5 Essential Cooking Skills Taught in Culinary School
Most home cooks wish we could afford culinary school. Not necessarily to get into the restaurant industry, but to “sharpen” our kitchen skills. Recently attending a cooking school function, I learned exactly what the syllabus of a culinary school includes. Here are 5 basic cooking skill elements taught in culinary school. I. Knife Skills for Cooking Knives are the most important tool in your kitchen. Using them properly and having proper technique will provide less risk of injury, faster prep times and better results in your cooking. When using a knife, watch the non-knife hand, keeping the food steady. The knife tip never leaves the cutting board surface. Use the…
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Buying, Caring, and Storing Knives
As home cooks, our knives are one of the most valuable, instrumental tools in our kitchens. Buying a cheap set of knives, encased in plastic, which ironically, you would need a knife to open, is just a waste of money. Knives are the one tool where you get what you pay for. Invest in good quality knives, which have durability sharpness and an excellent reputation. BUYING KNIVES Buying a knife should be very personal. Brands and designs vary tremendously. Some cooks like heavy knives, I actually do not, as I do not have a strong grip. Knives can weigh as much as 10-ounces, some as little as 6-ounces. Weight can…
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Garlic Adds Depth to Dishes
My absolute favorite aroma from the kitchen occurs when I am sauteing butter, onions and garlic. Garlic is one – if not – the most versatile seasoning agent in the food world! A member of the lily family, garlic is a cousin to leeks, chives, onions and shallots. The edible bulb, or “head” grows below the ground. The bulb consists of sections called cloves, each encased in its own parchment like membrane. Types of Garlic In the United States, there are three major types of garlic; Buying Garlic Fresh garlic is available at your local supermarket year round. Purchase firm, plump bulbs…
