kitchen tips Archives - falafelandcaviar.com Thu, 18 Jan 2024 14:25:10 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 A Clean Kitchen Can Actually Improve Your Cooking https://falafelandcaviar.com/a-clean-kitchen-can-actually-improve-your-cooking/ Fri, 19 Jan 2024 16:56:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=17683 There’s an old saying that “if your room is a mess, your mind is a mess.” This is true with a lot of things, and kitchens are no exception. You might think that it doesn’t really matter how clean (or dirty) your kitchen is as long as you know what you’re doing. Here’s why this […]

The post A Clean Kitchen Can Actually Improve Your Cooking appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> There’s an old saying that “if your room is a mess, your mind is a mess.” This is true with a lot of things, and kitchens are no exception. You might think that it doesn’t really matter how clean (or dirty) your kitchen is as long as you know what you’re doing. Here’s why this is actually far from the truth.

Organization is a Skill

You may be telling yourself that an organized kitchen doesn’t matter simply because you’re not good at organizing. But bear with us because organization is actually a skill that you can learn. If you’re an excellent cook with a messy kitchen, you’ll be that much better when your kitchen is clean. So do yourself a favor and sort through your stuff!

You’ll Notice Things You Didn’t Before

If you clean your kitchen, one thing that you’ll notice is that there are things missing. Some of us go by the cooking mindset of just kind of using what’s around. But when you can see everything and know where everything is, you’ll be a lot more aware of what’s not there as well. This will encourage you to get what you need, and thus get a lot more creative with your cooking.

The post A Clean Kitchen Can Actually Improve Your Cooking appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Some Basic Kitchen Safety Tips to Remember https://falafelandcaviar.com/some-basic-kitchen-safety-tips-to-remember/ Mon, 25 Dec 2023 16:23:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=17737 Cooking is a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s important to keep safety in mind while in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie, accidents can happen. Here are a handful of simple kitchen safety tips that you can follow to keep yourself and your loved ones safe while cooking. Having a […]

The post Some Basic Kitchen Safety Tips to Remember appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Cooking is a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s important to keep safety in mind while in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie, accidents can happen. Here are a handful of simple kitchen safety tips that you can follow to keep yourself and your loved ones safe while cooking.

Having a Clean Kitchen

First and foremost, keep your kitchen clean and organized. This means regularly wiping down counters, keeping floors clear of clutter, and storing knives and other sharp objects safely. Also, be sure to keep flammable items such as paper towels and dishcloths away from the stove and other heat sources.

Beware of Heat

Secondly, always use caution when working with heat. Be mindful of the temperature of your stove, oven, and other cooking appliances, and never leave them unattended while in use. Use potholders and oven mitts to protect your hands when handling hot pots and pans, and never use wet or damp cloths to grab hot items.

First Aid Practices

Finally, be sure to educate yourself on basic first aid practices, just in case an accident does occur. Keep a fully stocked first aid kit in your kitchen and know how to properly use it.

The post Some Basic Kitchen Safety Tips to Remember appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> You’ll Be Surprised by How Many Things Shouldn’t Go Into Your Garbage Disposal https://falafelandcaviar.com/youll-be-surprised-by-how-many-things-shouldnt-go-into-your-garbage-disposal/ Sat, 11 Nov 2023 12:36:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=18550 People usually don’t think much about food and scraps they put into their garbage disposal and send down the drain. After all, it is meant to dispose of garbage, right? Well, yes and no. A garbage disposal can deal with the majority of food and scraps, but if you are not careful with the way […]

The post You’ll Be Surprised by How Many Things Shouldn’t Go Into Your Garbage Disposal appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> People usually don’t think much about food and scraps they put into their garbage disposal and send down the drain. After all, it is meant to dispose of garbage, right? Well, yes and no.

A garbage disposal can deal with the majority of food and scraps, but if you are not careful with the way you use it, you are inviting trouble. Some things should never go into your garbage disposal as they can either cause it to malfunction or result in serious plumbing issues.

Baltimore-based company Prime Plumbing recently asked its plumbers to reveal one thing people shouldn’t put down their garbage disposal. And the answers were quite surprising.

Some of the plumbers believe that you should avoid putting anything down the garbage disposal, while others gave some more specific answers. One plumber identified chicken bones as “no-go,” while others mentioned rice, egg shells, and “anything starchy.”

The video ended up going viral, reaching three million views. It also caught many social media users off guard considering that they have been likely using their garbage disposal instead of a garbage bin.

@primeplumbingmd

Some answers might surprise you! đŸ˜± #plumbing #plumbingfail #fyp #trending #funny #minimic #education #plumbingtok #plumbinglife #garbagedisposal

♬ Original Mii Channel Theme – VideoGameOST

Chicken bones and egg shells are likely on the list because they can break the garbage disposal. Rice and other starchy things, on the other hand, are known to expand with water and can create residue that clogs the drain pipes.

Other things that you should avoid sending down the garbage disposal are coffee beans, pits, corn husks, and grease. Basically, anything that can either damage the blades, get trapped into them, or clog the drains should be off-limits. That is of course you don’t want to pay a huge plumbing bill.

The post You’ll Be Surprised by How Many Things Shouldn’t Go Into Your Garbage Disposal appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Cookware: Where to Skimp & Where to Splurge https://falafelandcaviar.com/cookware-where-to-skimp-where-to-splurge/ Fri, 03 Nov 2023 08:41:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=18484 For chopping, baking, sauteing and more, keeping your kitchen well-stocked with a range of cooking tools is an essential part of being able to prepare a wide variety of dishes. That said, the cost of purchasing an entire kitchen’s worth of supplies can add up quickly, with even relatively basic items often coming with a […]

The post Cookware: Where to Skimp & Where to Splurge appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> For chopping, baking, sauteing and more, keeping your kitchen well-stocked with a range of cooking tools is an essential part of being able to prepare a wide variety of dishes. That said, the cost of purchasing an entire kitchen’s worth of supplies can add up quickly, with even relatively basic items often coming with a substantial price tag.

Fortunately, you don’t have to spend big bucks on top-of-the-line versions of everything to create delicious food. Read on to learn more about which kitchen tools are okay to skimp on and which are worth the splurge.

Splurge 

Pots & Pans

Pots and pans are essential for the vast majority of kitchen tasks, so if you can only afford to splurge on one thing, we recommend going for a well-made set of cookware. Look for pieces with thick, multi-layered bottoms, as these allow for more even heat distribution. Once you’ve chosen your cookware, research and follow the care instructions to keep it in top working condition for as long as possible.

Knives

Investing in sharp, high-quality blades won’t only make meal prep more enjoyable, it will also help prevent injuries and accidents in the kitchen. Look for knives with forged blades and comfortable, ergonomic handles, as these are designed to allow for more precision and control.

Skimp

Baking Sheets

Baking sheets are necessary for many dishes that involve roasting and baking, but the difference between high-end sheets and more affordable options is actually pretty minimal. Look for baking sheets with a non-stick coating, or use a silicone mat for easy cleanup and to keep your baking sheets looking like new.

The post Cookware: Where to Skimp & Where to Splurge appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> How to Help Fruit Ripen Faster https://falafelandcaviar.com/how-to-help-fruit-ripen-faster/ Fri, 21 Jul 2023 08:21:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=16863 One of our favorite things about summer is all of the seasonal fruit that it brings, but it can definitely be a challenge to be patient as we wait for the fruit we purchase to ripen. Most grocery stores sell fruit picked prematurely so that it has a longer shelf life, and while we understand […]

The post How to Help Fruit Ripen Faster appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> One of our favorite things about summer is all of the seasonal fruit that it brings, but it can definitely be a challenge to be patient as we wait for the fruit we purchase to ripen. Most grocery stores sell fruit picked prematurely so that it has a longer shelf life, and while we understand the reasoning behind this, we don’t love having to wait days for it to become sweet and soft enough to eat. There’s no magic button that will help any fruit ripen instantly, but there are a few ways to speed up the process. Here are some of our go-to’s.

Use a Paper Bag

Placing fruit in a paper bag is one of the most popular methods for helping it ripen faster and for good reason—it works really well. As fruit ripens, it releases ethylene gas. Trapping the gas inside of a paper bag will help speed up this process. 

Place Near Ripe Fruit

As with the paper bag method, keeping unripe fruit near a source of ethylene gas will help it to become ripe more quickly. Place a ripe banana or apple next to your unripe fruit and the gas they give off will cause it to be ready to eat in half the time it would otherwise—just be sure to keep an eye on it. 

Sunlight

Leaving unripe fruit in front of a sunny window will cause it to ripen very quickly. It’s probably the most effective method, but it’s also one that requires checking in frequently to keep your fruit from going off. 

The post How to Help Fruit Ripen Faster appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Having a Non-Stick Pan in Your Kitchen Is a Must https://falafelandcaviar.com/having-a-non-stick-pan-in-your-kitchen-is-a-must/ Wed, 14 Jun 2023 08:24:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=18026 Some kitchen items shouldn’t be optional, and a non-stick pan is one of them. This culinary superhero is here to revolutionize your cooking experience and make your time in the kitchen a breeze. If you’re sick of frustrating cleanup sessions, here are a few reasons why you must purchase a non-stick pan right away. Cooking […]

The post Having a Non-Stick Pan in Your Kitchen Is a Must appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Some kitchen items shouldn’t be optional, and a non-stick pan is one of them. This culinary superhero is here to revolutionize your cooking experience and make your time in the kitchen a breeze. If you’re sick of frustrating cleanup sessions, here are a few reasons why you must purchase a non-stick pan right away.

Cooking Is Easier

Imagine you’re preparing a delicate omelet or a batch of golden pancakes. With a non-stick pan, your culinary creations effortlessly glide across the surface, ensuring a flawless flip every time. No more heart-stopping moments when your food sticks to the pan, leaving a disastrous mess behind. Cooking becomes a seamless, stress-free affair.

Reduce Unhealthy Additives

You can say goodbye to excessive oil and butter as well. Non-stick pans require minimal amounts of fats or oils to prevent food from sticking. This means you can enjoy healthier meals without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re sautĂ©ing vegetables or searing meats, you’ll achieve a perfect golden-brown crust without drowning your ingredients in grease.

Easy to Clean

Cleanup becomes a breeze with a non-stick pan. Gone are the days of scrubbing and soaking pans for hours. Thanks to the smooth, non-stick coating, residue slides off effortlessly, requiring only a quick rinse and gentle wipe.

The post Having a Non-Stick Pan in Your Kitchen Is a Must appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Here Are Some Tips For Making Perfect Fried Eggs https://falafelandcaviar.com/here-are-some-tips-for-making-perfect-fried-eggs/ Sun, 30 Apr 2023 12:57:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=7806 Despite being a simple and tasty dish, frying eggs can be frustrating if you don’t know the proper technique for doing so. Many breakfasts have been ruined in the past when cooks weren’t sure of the best technique for frying an egg. It’s important not to break the yolk and not to burn the egg […]

The post Here Are Some Tips For Making Perfect Fried Eggs appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Despite being a simple and tasty dish, frying eggs can be frustrating if you don’t know the proper technique for doing so. Many breakfasts have been ruined in the past when cooks weren’t sure of the best technique for frying an egg. It’s important not to break the yolk and not to burn the egg white, but how can we be sure to do it correctly? Here are some tips.

Coat the Pan With Butter or Olive Oil

No matter what type of fried egg that you want to make, a crucial first step is to coat your pan with either butter or olive oil. This ensures that the egg won’t get stuck to the pan, an issue that has frustrated lots of people trying to make breakfast.

Don’t Flip the Egg

Believe it or not, fried eggs usually turn out better if you don’t flip them. Flipping can cause the yolk to break, ruining your eggs. Instead, cover the egg if you want to cook the yolk more thoroughly.

Lower the Heat

Don’t make fried eggs at a too-high temperature! While the pan should be hot to start out with, lower the temperature to medium-low while the egg cooks. This will allow the egg to cook thoroughly while not burning.

The post Here Are Some Tips For Making Perfect Fried Eggs appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Cooking For a Large Group? Follow These Tips https://falafelandcaviar.com/cooking-for-a-large-group-follow-these-tips/ Mon, 24 Apr 2023 08:56:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=17761 Cooking for a large group can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can create a delicious meal that will satisfy everyone’s taste buds. Here are some helpful tips that can make the process a lot easier than you think. Proper Planning […]

The post Cooking For a Large Group? Follow These Tips appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Cooking for a large group can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can create a delicious meal that will satisfy everyone’s taste buds. Here are some helpful tips that can make the process a lot easier than you think.

Proper Planning

Firstly, make sure to plan ahead. Consider the dietary restrictions of your guests and plan your menu accordingly. You should also choose dishes that can be prepared ahead of time. This not only reduces the stress of cooking on the day but also allows you to spend more time with your guests. Soups, stews, and casseroles are great options that can be made in advance and reheated just before serving.

Slow Cookers

Next, make use of your slow cooker. This handy appliance allows you to cook large quantities of food with minimal effort. From pulled pork to chili, a slow cooker is a great tool for cooking for a crowd.

Having a Buffet

When it comes to serving, set up a buffet-style spread. This allows guests to serve themselves and take as much or as little as they like. Make sure to provide a variety of dishes, including vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Never Forget Dessert

Finally, don’t forget about dessert. A crowd-pleasing dessert like a fruit tart or chocolate cake is a great way to end the meal on a sweet note.

The post Cooking For a Large Group? Follow These Tips appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> The Reason Your Eggs Stick To Your Pan https://falafelandcaviar.com/the-reason-your-eggs-stick-to-your-pan/ Sun, 18 Sep 2022 10:24:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=17053 We’ve all been in a place where we’re cooking eggs on a skillet, only to find later on that a good portion of it ending up stuck to the pan. There are a few ways to avoid this, from using extra oil to buying a special non-stick pan. But if you’re not interested in loading […]

The post The Reason Your Eggs Stick To Your Pan appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> We’ve all been in a place where we’re cooking eggs on a skillet, only to find later on that a good portion of it ending up stuck to the pan. There are a few ways to avoid this, from using extra oil to buying a special non-stick pan. But if you’re not interested in loading your breakfast up with oil, or if you’re just too lazy to buy a non-stick skillet, here’s another way to keep your eggs from sticking to the pan—heat management.

One of the main reasons that your eggs stick to the pan is because your pan isn’t hot enough yet. It doesn’t matter if it’s “getting hot”. If your runny egg has already spent some time on a cold to lukewarm skillet, it’ll merge with the pan by the time it gets hot.

What you need to do is allow your pan time to heat up considerably before adding your egg. If you do this, your egg won’t have time to stick because it’ll be hardening up quicker than ever. Of course, this doesn’t mean we don’t recommend adding butter, or buying a non-stick skillet. But if you have no choice, prepping your skillet accordingly with the tip we mentioned will ensure that your eggs don’t stick.

The post The Reason Your Eggs Stick To Your Pan appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Be Careful When Doing This In The Kitchen https://falafelandcaviar.com/be-careful-when-doing-this-in-the-kitchen/ Mon, 12 Sep 2022 10:17:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=17023 Becoming a great chef is about so much more than just learning how to put a bunch of recipes together. There are many other aspects to master, and that includes being comfortable in the kitchen. You might think this isn’t something to worry about, but the kitchen can actually be a very dangerous place if […]

The post Be Careful When Doing This In The Kitchen appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Becoming a great chef is about so much more than just learning how to put a bunch of recipes together. There are many other aspects to master, and that includes being comfortable in the kitchen. You might think this isn’t something to worry about, but the kitchen can actually be a very dangerous place if you don’t treat it with reverence and care. One particular act, in fact, is a lot more dangerous than people realize—turning on the stove.

All stoves are built differently. Some are electrical, some use gas, and some were built 50 years ago, but NONE of them should be taken lightly. When turning on a gas stove, pay close attention to what’s happening.

Most stoves usually make a clicking sound when the gas is being “lit”. What’s supposed to happen next, as you might imagine, is that the flame comes out. When that happens, you’re good. The problem is that some stoves can be finicky, and a flame doesn’t always come right when you turn the dial.

This is problematic become although the flame isn’t coming, that “clicking sound” is still going, indicating that more gas is being injected. Many don’t realize this, and continue to hold the dial until the flame comes—only for the flame to be a lot larger than anticipated once it shows up.

This is a lot more dangerous than people realize. If you don’t see a flame coming up, that’s your cue to turn off the dial and try again in a minute. Don’t just keep going until it works—because that gas is still running.

The post Be Careful When Doing This In The Kitchen appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> ersion="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?> kitchen tips Archives - falafelandcaviar.com Thu, 18 Jan 2024 14:25:10 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 A Clean Kitchen Can Actually Improve Your Cooking https://falafelandcaviar.com/a-clean-kitchen-can-actually-improve-your-cooking/ Fri, 19 Jan 2024 16:56:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=17683 There’s an old saying that “if your room is a mess, your mind is a mess.” This is true with a lot of things, and kitchens are no exception. You might think that it doesn’t really matter how clean (or dirty) your kitchen is as long as you know what you’re doing. Here’s why this […]

The post A Clean Kitchen Can Actually Improve Your Cooking appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> There’s an old saying that “if your room is a mess, your mind is a mess.” This is true with a lot of things, and kitchens are no exception. You might think that it doesn’t really matter how clean (or dirty) your kitchen is as long as you know what you’re doing. Here’s why this is actually far from the truth.

Organization is a Skill

You may be telling yourself that an organized kitchen doesn’t matter simply because you’re not good at organizing. But bear with us because organization is actually a skill that you can learn. If you’re an excellent cook with a messy kitchen, you’ll be that much better when your kitchen is clean. So do yourself a favor and sort through your stuff!

You’ll Notice Things You Didn’t Before

If you clean your kitchen, one thing that you’ll notice is that there are things missing. Some of us go by the cooking mindset of just kind of using what’s around. But when you can see everything and know where everything is, you’ll be a lot more aware of what’s not there as well. This will encourage you to get what you need, and thus get a lot more creative with your cooking.

The post A Clean Kitchen Can Actually Improve Your Cooking appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Some Basic Kitchen Safety Tips to Remember https://falafelandcaviar.com/some-basic-kitchen-safety-tips-to-remember/ Mon, 25 Dec 2023 16:23:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=17737 Cooking is a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s important to keep safety in mind while in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie, accidents can happen. Here are a handful of simple kitchen safety tips that you can follow to keep yourself and your loved ones safe while cooking. Having a […]

The post Some Basic Kitchen Safety Tips to Remember appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Cooking is a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s important to keep safety in mind while in the kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a newbie, accidents can happen. Here are a handful of simple kitchen safety tips that you can follow to keep yourself and your loved ones safe while cooking.

Having a Clean Kitchen

First and foremost, keep your kitchen clean and organized. This means regularly wiping down counters, keeping floors clear of clutter, and storing knives and other sharp objects safely. Also, be sure to keep flammable items such as paper towels and dishcloths away from the stove and other heat sources.

Beware of Heat

Secondly, always use caution when working with heat. Be mindful of the temperature of your stove, oven, and other cooking appliances, and never leave them unattended while in use. Use potholders and oven mitts to protect your hands when handling hot pots and pans, and never use wet or damp cloths to grab hot items.

First Aid Practices

Finally, be sure to educate yourself on basic first aid practices, just in case an accident does occur. Keep a fully stocked first aid kit in your kitchen and know how to properly use it.

The post Some Basic Kitchen Safety Tips to Remember appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> You’ll Be Surprised by How Many Things Shouldn’t Go Into Your Garbage Disposal https://falafelandcaviar.com/youll-be-surprised-by-how-many-things-shouldnt-go-into-your-garbage-disposal/ Sat, 11 Nov 2023 12:36:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=18550 People usually don’t think much about food and scraps they put into their garbage disposal and send down the drain. After all, it is meant to dispose of garbage, right? Well, yes and no. A garbage disposal can deal with the majority of food and scraps, but if you are not careful with the way […]

The post You’ll Be Surprised by How Many Things Shouldn’t Go Into Your Garbage Disposal appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> People usually don’t think much about food and scraps they put into their garbage disposal and send down the drain. After all, it is meant to dispose of garbage, right? Well, yes and no.

A garbage disposal can deal with the majority of food and scraps, but if you are not careful with the way you use it, you are inviting trouble. Some things should never go into your garbage disposal as they can either cause it to malfunction or result in serious plumbing issues.

Baltimore-based company Prime Plumbing recently asked its plumbers to reveal one thing people shouldn’t put down their garbage disposal. And the answers were quite surprising.

Some of the plumbers believe that you should avoid putting anything down the garbage disposal, while others gave some more specific answers. One plumber identified chicken bones as “no-go,” while others mentioned rice, egg shells, and “anything starchy.”

The video ended up going viral, reaching three million views. It also caught many social media users off guard considering that they have been likely using their garbage disposal instead of a garbage bin.

@primeplumbingmd

Some answers might surprise you! đŸ˜± #plumbing #plumbingfail #fyp #trending #funny #minimic #education #plumbingtok #plumbinglife #garbagedisposal

♬ Original Mii Channel Theme – VideoGameOST

Chicken bones and egg shells are likely on the list because they can break the garbage disposal. Rice and other starchy things, on the other hand, are known to expand with water and can create residue that clogs the drain pipes.

Other things that you should avoid sending down the garbage disposal are coffee beans, pits, corn husks, and grease. Basically, anything that can either damage the blades, get trapped into them, or clog the drains should be off-limits. That is of course you don’t want to pay a huge plumbing bill.

The post You’ll Be Surprised by How Many Things Shouldn’t Go Into Your Garbage Disposal appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Cookware: Where to Skimp & Where to Splurge https://falafelandcaviar.com/cookware-where-to-skimp-where-to-splurge/ Fri, 03 Nov 2023 08:41:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=18484 For chopping, baking, sauteing and more, keeping your kitchen well-stocked with a range of cooking tools is an essential part of being able to prepare a wide variety of dishes. That said, the cost of purchasing an entire kitchen’s worth of supplies can add up quickly, with even relatively basic items often coming with a […]

The post Cookware: Where to Skimp & Where to Splurge appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> For chopping, baking, sauteing and more, keeping your kitchen well-stocked with a range of cooking tools is an essential part of being able to prepare a wide variety of dishes. That said, the cost of purchasing an entire kitchen’s worth of supplies can add up quickly, with even relatively basic items often coming with a substantial price tag.

Fortunately, you don’t have to spend big bucks on top-of-the-line versions of everything to create delicious food. Read on to learn more about which kitchen tools are okay to skimp on and which are worth the splurge.

Splurge 

Pots & Pans

Pots and pans are essential for the vast majority of kitchen tasks, so if you can only afford to splurge on one thing, we recommend going for a well-made set of cookware. Look for pieces with thick, multi-layered bottoms, as these allow for more even heat distribution. Once you’ve chosen your cookware, research and follow the care instructions to keep it in top working condition for as long as possible.

Knives

Investing in sharp, high-quality blades won’t only make meal prep more enjoyable, it will also help prevent injuries and accidents in the kitchen. Look for knives with forged blades and comfortable, ergonomic handles, as these are designed to allow for more precision and control.

Skimp

Baking Sheets

Baking sheets are necessary for many dishes that involve roasting and baking, but the difference between high-end sheets and more affordable options is actually pretty minimal. Look for baking sheets with a non-stick coating, or use a silicone mat for easy cleanup and to keep your baking sheets looking like new.

The post Cookware: Where to Skimp & Where to Splurge appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> How to Help Fruit Ripen Faster https://falafelandcaviar.com/how-to-help-fruit-ripen-faster/ Fri, 21 Jul 2023 08:21:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=16863 One of our favorite things about summer is all of the seasonal fruit that it brings, but it can definitely be a challenge to be patient as we wait for the fruit we purchase to ripen. Most grocery stores sell fruit picked prematurely so that it has a longer shelf life, and while we understand […]

The post How to Help Fruit Ripen Faster appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> One of our favorite things about summer is all of the seasonal fruit that it brings, but it can definitely be a challenge to be patient as we wait for the fruit we purchase to ripen. Most grocery stores sell fruit picked prematurely so that it has a longer shelf life, and while we understand the reasoning behind this, we don’t love having to wait days for it to become sweet and soft enough to eat. There’s no magic button that will help any fruit ripen instantly, but there are a few ways to speed up the process. Here are some of our go-to’s.

Use a Paper Bag

Placing fruit in a paper bag is one of the most popular methods for helping it ripen faster and for good reason—it works really well. As fruit ripens, it releases ethylene gas. Trapping the gas inside of a paper bag will help speed up this process. 

Place Near Ripe Fruit

As with the paper bag method, keeping unripe fruit near a source of ethylene gas will help it to become ripe more quickly. Place a ripe banana or apple next to your unripe fruit and the gas they give off will cause it to be ready to eat in half the time it would otherwise—just be sure to keep an eye on it. 

Sunlight

Leaving unripe fruit in front of a sunny window will cause it to ripen very quickly. It’s probably the most effective method, but it’s also one that requires checking in frequently to keep your fruit from going off. 

The post How to Help Fruit Ripen Faster appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Having a Non-Stick Pan in Your Kitchen Is a Must https://falafelandcaviar.com/having-a-non-stick-pan-in-your-kitchen-is-a-must/ Wed, 14 Jun 2023 08:24:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=18026 Some kitchen items shouldn’t be optional, and a non-stick pan is one of them. This culinary superhero is here to revolutionize your cooking experience and make your time in the kitchen a breeze. If you’re sick of frustrating cleanup sessions, here are a few reasons why you must purchase a non-stick pan right away. Cooking […]

The post Having a Non-Stick Pan in Your Kitchen Is a Must appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Some kitchen items shouldn’t be optional, and a non-stick pan is one of them. This culinary superhero is here to revolutionize your cooking experience and make your time in the kitchen a breeze. If you’re sick of frustrating cleanup sessions, here are a few reasons why you must purchase a non-stick pan right away.

Cooking Is Easier

Imagine you’re preparing a delicate omelet or a batch of golden pancakes. With a non-stick pan, your culinary creations effortlessly glide across the surface, ensuring a flawless flip every time. No more heart-stopping moments when your food sticks to the pan, leaving a disastrous mess behind. Cooking becomes a seamless, stress-free affair.

Reduce Unhealthy Additives

You can say goodbye to excessive oil and butter as well. Non-stick pans require minimal amounts of fats or oils to prevent food from sticking. This means you can enjoy healthier meals without sacrificing flavor. Whether you’re sautĂ©ing vegetables or searing meats, you’ll achieve a perfect golden-brown crust without drowning your ingredients in grease.

Easy to Clean

Cleanup becomes a breeze with a non-stick pan. Gone are the days of scrubbing and soaking pans for hours. Thanks to the smooth, non-stick coating, residue slides off effortlessly, requiring only a quick rinse and gentle wipe.

The post Having a Non-Stick Pan in Your Kitchen Is a Must appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Here Are Some Tips For Making Perfect Fried Eggs https://falafelandcaviar.com/here-are-some-tips-for-making-perfect-fried-eggs/ Sun, 30 Apr 2023 12:57:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=7806 Despite being a simple and tasty dish, frying eggs can be frustrating if you don’t know the proper technique for doing so. Many breakfasts have been ruined in the past when cooks weren’t sure of the best technique for frying an egg. It’s important not to break the yolk and not to burn the egg […]

The post Here Are Some Tips For Making Perfect Fried Eggs appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Despite being a simple and tasty dish, frying eggs can be frustrating if you don’t know the proper technique for doing so. Many breakfasts have been ruined in the past when cooks weren’t sure of the best technique for frying an egg. It’s important not to break the yolk and not to burn the egg white, but how can we be sure to do it correctly? Here are some tips.

Coat the Pan With Butter or Olive Oil

No matter what type of fried egg that you want to make, a crucial first step is to coat your pan with either butter or olive oil. This ensures that the egg won’t get stuck to the pan, an issue that has frustrated lots of people trying to make breakfast.

Don’t Flip the Egg

Believe it or not, fried eggs usually turn out better if you don’t flip them. Flipping can cause the yolk to break, ruining your eggs. Instead, cover the egg if you want to cook the yolk more thoroughly.

Lower the Heat

Don’t make fried eggs at a too-high temperature! While the pan should be hot to start out with, lower the temperature to medium-low while the egg cooks. This will allow the egg to cook thoroughly while not burning.

The post Here Are Some Tips For Making Perfect Fried Eggs appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Cooking For a Large Group? Follow These Tips https://falafelandcaviar.com/cooking-for-a-large-group-follow-these-tips/ Mon, 24 Apr 2023 08:56:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=17761 Cooking for a large group can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can create a delicious meal that will satisfy everyone’s taste buds. Here are some helpful tips that can make the process a lot easier than you think. Proper Planning […]

The post Cooking For a Large Group? Follow These Tips appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Cooking for a large group can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With a little bit of planning and preparation, you can create a delicious meal that will satisfy everyone’s taste buds. Here are some helpful tips that can make the process a lot easier than you think.

Proper Planning

Firstly, make sure to plan ahead. Consider the dietary restrictions of your guests and plan your menu accordingly. You should also choose dishes that can be prepared ahead of time. This not only reduces the stress of cooking on the day but also allows you to spend more time with your guests. Soups, stews, and casseroles are great options that can be made in advance and reheated just before serving.

Slow Cookers

Next, make use of your slow cooker. This handy appliance allows you to cook large quantities of food with minimal effort. From pulled pork to chili, a slow cooker is a great tool for cooking for a crowd.

Having a Buffet

When it comes to serving, set up a buffet-style spread. This allows guests to serve themselves and take as much or as little as they like. Make sure to provide a variety of dishes, including vegetarian and gluten-free options.

Never Forget Dessert

Finally, don’t forget about dessert. A crowd-pleasing dessert like a fruit tart or chocolate cake is a great way to end the meal on a sweet note.

The post Cooking For a Large Group? Follow These Tips appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> The Reason Your Eggs Stick To Your Pan https://falafelandcaviar.com/the-reason-your-eggs-stick-to-your-pan/ Sun, 18 Sep 2022 10:24:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=17053 We’ve all been in a place where we’re cooking eggs on a skillet, only to find later on that a good portion of it ending up stuck to the pan. There are a few ways to avoid this, from using extra oil to buying a special non-stick pan. But if you’re not interested in loading […]

The post The Reason Your Eggs Stick To Your Pan appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> We’ve all been in a place where we’re cooking eggs on a skillet, only to find later on that a good portion of it ending up stuck to the pan. There are a few ways to avoid this, from using extra oil to buying a special non-stick pan. But if you’re not interested in loading your breakfast up with oil, or if you’re just too lazy to buy a non-stick skillet, here’s another way to keep your eggs from sticking to the pan—heat management.

One of the main reasons that your eggs stick to the pan is because your pan isn’t hot enough yet. It doesn’t matter if it’s “getting hot”. If your runny egg has already spent some time on a cold to lukewarm skillet, it’ll merge with the pan by the time it gets hot.

What you need to do is allow your pan time to heat up considerably before adding your egg. If you do this, your egg won’t have time to stick because it’ll be hardening up quicker than ever. Of course, this doesn’t mean we don’t recommend adding butter, or buying a non-stick skillet. But if you have no choice, prepping your skillet accordingly with the tip we mentioned will ensure that your eggs don’t stick.

The post The Reason Your Eggs Stick To Your Pan appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Be Careful When Doing This In The Kitchen https://falafelandcaviar.com/be-careful-when-doing-this-in-the-kitchen/ Mon, 12 Sep 2022 10:17:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=17023 Becoming a great chef is about so much more than just learning how to put a bunch of recipes together. There are many other aspects to master, and that includes being comfortable in the kitchen. You might think this isn’t something to worry about, but the kitchen can actually be a very dangerous place if […]

The post Be Careful When Doing This In The Kitchen appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Becoming a great chef is about so much more than just learning how to put a bunch of recipes together. There are many other aspects to master, and that includes being comfortable in the kitchen. You might think this isn’t something to worry about, but the kitchen can actually be a very dangerous place if you don’t treat it with reverence and care. One particular act, in fact, is a lot more dangerous than people realize—turning on the stove.

All stoves are built differently. Some are electrical, some use gas, and some were built 50 years ago, but NONE of them should be taken lightly. When turning on a gas stove, pay close attention to what’s happening.

Most stoves usually make a clicking sound when the gas is being “lit”. What’s supposed to happen next, as you might imagine, is that the flame comes out. When that happens, you’re good. The problem is that some stoves can be finicky, and a flame doesn’t always come right when you turn the dial.

This is problematic become although the flame isn’t coming, that “clicking sound” is still going, indicating that more gas is being injected. Many don’t realize this, and continue to hold the dial until the flame comes—only for the flame to be a lot larger than anticipated once it shows up.

This is a lot more dangerous than people realize. If you don’t see a flame coming up, that’s your cue to turn off the dial and try again in a minute. Don’t just keep going until it works—because that gas is still running.

The post Be Careful When Doing This In The Kitchen appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]>