Steven Martin The world of cooking is rich with flavors, techniques, and, importantly, terminology. When you gather a group of your favorite dishes, family secrets passed down through generations, or culinary creations from a specific region, what do you call that collection? The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think. While “recipe collection” is a perfectly … Read more
Dried-out pork. It’s the culinary tragedy that has befallen even the most seasoned home cooks. Whether it’s an overcooked chop, a roast left in the oven a tad too long, or leftovers that have lost their moisture, the result is the same: tough, unappetizing meat that nobody wants to eat. But don’t despair! Before you … Read more
Masala sauce, a culinary cornerstone in Indian and South Asian cuisine, is renowned for its rich tapestry of flavors. It’s a versatile sauce that forms the base for countless dishes, from creamy butter chicken to spicy vegetable curries. But what exactly goes into this delectable sauce? The answer, while seemingly simple, reveals a complex interplay … Read more
Christmas crackers, those delightful tubes of joy filled with trinkets, jokes, and paper crowns, are a staple of holiday celebrations in the United Kingdom, Ireland, and other Commonwealth countries. But what about across the pond? Can you buy Christmas crackers in the US? The short answer is yes, but finding them requires a bit more … Read more
Sesame. The very name conjures images of golden seeds sprinkled atop burger buns, or the rich, nutty aroma of tahini swirling in hummus. But have you ever stopped to consider what kind of seed sesame actually is? Is it a grain? A nut? A spice? The answer, while seemingly simple, unveils a fascinating journey into … Read more
Emeril Lagasse. The name conjures images of bold flavors, energetic cooking demonstrations, and, of course, quality cookware. If you’re a proud owner of Emeril cookware, you’ve likely experienced its performance on the stovetop. But what about the oven? Can you seamlessly transition from searing to baking without switching pans? The answer, like many things in … Read more
The quest for the perfect chicken thigh – juicy, flavorful, and versatile – often leads to a frustrating discovery: the seemingly impossible-to-find boneless, skin-on variety. While boneless, skinless thighs are readily available, and bone-in, skin-on thighs are a staple in many supermarkets, the combination of boneless convenience and crispy skin seems stubbornly elusive. Why is … Read more
Dairy Queen, the beloved purveyor of frozen treats, has captivated generations with its iconic Blizzards, Dilly Bars, and, of course, its dipped cones. Among the myriad of flavor combinations, the Dreamsicle Dipped Cone stands out as a nostalgic and refreshing choice, evoking memories of summer days and childhood joys. But what exactly makes this cone … Read more
Mystic Pizza. The name conjures images of a small, family-run pizza place nestled in the charming coastal town of Mystic, Connecticut. It evokes memories of Julia Roberts’ breakout role, coming-of-age drama, and, of course, that tantalizing question: What exactly is the secret ingredient that makes the Mystic Pizza so irresistible? The 1988 film, “Mystic Pizza,” … Read more
Cucumber juice, a refreshing and hydrating elixir, has surged in popularity as a health-conscious beverage. Its mild flavor and numerous health benefits make it a welcome addition to any diet. However, one question often plagues aspiring juicers: Should you peel cucumbers before juicing them? The answer, as with many things nutrition-related, isn’t a straightforward yes … Read more