tips and tricks Archives - falafelandcaviar.com Wed, 18 Oct 2023 17:57:16 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 Remember These Tips for Your Next Starbucks Trip https://falafelandcaviar.com/remember-these-tips-for-your-next-starbucks-trip/ Wed, 18 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=17044 Everyone has heard of the Starbucks “secret menu”. Whether or not it actually exists is still up for debate, but mentioning it is most likely going to annoy your barista… Next time you’re headed to a Starbucks, here are three things to bear in mind.  Trust Your Barista The person behind the counter knows more […]

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]]> Everyone has heard of the Starbucks “secret menu”. Whether or not it actually exists is still up for debate, but mentioning it is most likely going to annoy your barista… Next time you’re headed to a Starbucks, here are three things to bear in mind. 

Trust Your Barista

The person behind the counter knows more than you realize. Your barista has been well-versed on how to make coffee—particularly Starbucks’ own menu—and likely has a passion for the caffeinated liquid. Tell them what you enjoy and they’ll be sure to recommend something to suit your taste buds.

Learn to Let Go

Adore Pumpkin Spice Lattes? A huge fan of Peppermint Mochas? Starbucks’ seasonal drinks are some of their most popular items, but, as with life, everything has its season. The ingredients for these drinks are only available in store during their designated season which means that baristas can’t make you a PSL in May as much as you beg. 

Know Your Roast

Starbucks uses a dark roast espresso for their lattes, while most local shops use a medium roast espresso. If you enjoy your coffee strong, stick with dark; otherwise, ask your barista to rather make your drink with blonde espresso. 

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]]> If Your Lettuce is Looking Sad, Try This Hack https://falafelandcaviar.com/if-your-lettuce-is-looking-sad-try-this-hack/ Wed, 01 Feb 2023 08:54:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=17644 If you think about it, lettuce can be quite a temperamental veggie. The shelf life of lettuce can vary, as it tends to wilt pretty quickly, and no one wants soggy lettuce. Unfortunately, with life being as busy as it is, it is not unusual to find a bag of lettuce in the fridge that you […]

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]]> If you think about it, lettuce can be quite a temperamental veggie. The shelf life of lettuce can vary, as it tends to wilt pretty quickly, and no one wants soggy lettuce. Unfortunately, with life being as busy as it is, it is not unusual to find a bag of lettuce in the fridge that you bought a few weeks ago and now looks rather sad. 

Luckily, though, there are ways to revive lettuce leaves so they can return to their plump and crisp former selves. After all, lettuce is most definitely best served fresh.

It may seem logical to shock the greens by plunging them into ice-cold water, and yes, that is what many will advise you to do. Yet, we have an even better hack that will practically turn back time and make it seem as though those greens have just been picked.  

Instead of using cold water, we want you to do the complete opposite!

Fill a large bowl with very hot tap water and dunk in your wilted lettuce. Allow them to soak for 10-30 minutes before draining the water and wrapping them in a damp towel. Place them in the fridge to chill before using them. 

Your lettuce will feel brand new and you will feel better about not having used it weeks ago.

The post If Your Lettuce is Looking Sad, Try This Hack appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Make Store Bought Stock Taste Homemade With These Tips https://falafelandcaviar.com/make-stock-from-the-store-taste-homemade-with-these-tips/ Wed, 23 Nov 2022 08:21:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=17339 Good soup usually starts with stock. Unfortunately, good stock can take time to make—time which we don’t always have… The easiest solution is to buy some stock from the store and use these tips to make it seem like you’ve been slaving over a hot stove for hours.  Herbs Fragrant and fresh, herbs can do […]

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]]> Good soup usually starts with stock. Unfortunately, good stock can take time to make—time which we don’t always have… The easiest solution is to buy some stock from the store and use these tips to make it seem like you’ve been slaving over a hot stove for hours. 

Herbs

Fragrant and fresh, herbs can do wonders for stock. Particularly if they’re on the woody side. Grab a handful of fresh rosemary, thyme, oregano, sage, and tarragon, and let them simmer away.

Parmesan Rind

This may seem unconventional, but trust us, it works. Parmesan rinds are full of umami flavor that will bulk up your stock. Add around 3 rinds per quart of stock.

Garlic

Garlic goes with everything, and stock is not excluded. While we would never discourage you from putting in as much garlic as your heart desires, halve two heads of garlic per quart of stock to be safe.

Dried Mushrooms

Another great source of umami flavor is mushrooms. Earthy and rich in flavor, they can also add a meaty taste to a vegetable stock. Add 3–4 mushrooms to 1 quart of stock.

The post Make Store Bought Stock Taste Homemade With These Tips appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Make Flawless Fried Eggs With This Hack https://falafelandcaviar.com/make-flawless-fried-eggs-with-this-hack/ Thu, 03 Nov 2022 16:44:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=17258 A fried egg is more than just a breakfast food. Not only are they an egg-cellent source of protein (sorry, we had to), but they also contain important nutrients like vitamin B6, B12, and vitamin D, which makes them an ideal ingredient to start your day on.  But fried eggs also go wonderfully on burgers, […]

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]]> A fried egg is more than just a breakfast food. Not only are they an egg-cellent source of protein (sorry, we had to), but they also contain important nutrients like vitamin B6, B12, and vitamin D, which makes them an ideal ingredient to start your day on. 

But fried eggs also go wonderfully on burgers, in sandwiches, and, of course, as a part of dozens of Asian noodle and rice dishes. So how do you make a perfect fried egg?

If scrambled eggs are the easiest, and poached eggs are the hardest, fried eggs fall somewhere in the middle. Although they seem simple, it can be tricky to get the egg white cooked but not burnt and to make sure the yellow is still runny but does not break. 

One way to fulfill your eggy dreams is to use water. 

Add a small amount of oil to a skillet on medium heat and crack in your eggs. After about 30 seconds, add some hot water to the pan and begin basting the eggs. Within 5 minutes, you should have fried eggs with runny yolks and set whites without a burnt edge or broken center in sight!

The post Make Flawless Fried Eggs With This Hack appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> 3 Tips for Top Tempura https://falafelandcaviar.com/3-tips-for-top-tempura/ Thu, 03 Nov 2022 08:47:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=17249 Alongside sushi and ramen, tempura is a favorite in Japanese cuisine. The crispy, crunchy batter coats everything from seafood to vegetables and has been around since the 16th century. In fact, the concept was introduced by Portuguese missionaries in Nagasaki who used to deep-fry using flour and eggs during religious periods when Catholics refrained from eating […]

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]]> Alongside sushi and ramen, tempura is a favorite in Japanese cuisine. The crispy, crunchy batter coats everything from seafood to vegetables and has been around since the 16th century. In fact, the concept was introduced by Portuguese missionaries in Nagasaki who used to deep-fry using flour and eggs during religious periods when Catholics refrained from eating meat.  

Tempura batter is typically light and made from flour, eggs, and iced water. If you’re making your own, here are some tips to help.

Feel the Vibes

While your item is frying, it can be difficult to know when it is done. One way is to check how big the bubbles are—if they are large, it means there is still a lot of moisture and the item is not yet cooked through. Another way is to hold the item with chopsticks and feel the vibrations. Big vibes indicate that there is still some cooking to go. 

Take the “Oy” Out of Oil

Greasy tempura is not ideal. Oil from frying can cling to your tempura when taking it out, so pull out each piece out slowly, at an angle, to prevent this. 

Don’t Let Leftovers Go to Waste

If you have leftover batter, put it to good use by drizzling it into the hot oil and creating crunchy bits. When dusted with icing sugar, they make a delicious ice cream topping. 

The post 3 Tips for Top Tempura appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Make Perfect Salmon Every Time With These Tips https://falafelandcaviar.com/make-perfect-salmon-every-time-with-these-tips/ Wed, 02 Nov 2022 08:34:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=17247 Salmon is a dish so versatile that it is equally as good for a dinner party as it is for supper on a Tuesday night. There are many ways to prepare salmon—from glazing it with teriyaki sauce to baking it with lemon butter—but there are just as many ways to mess it up. To prevent […]

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]]> Salmon is a dish so versatile that it is equally as good for a dinner party as it is for supper on a Tuesday night. There are many ways to prepare salmon—from glazing it with teriyaki sauce to baking it with lemon butter—but there are just as many ways to mess it up. To prevent said travesty, here are some tricks to keep you swimming upstream. 

Keep Cool

With some proteins, a searing hot pan is needed. Salmon, however, is not one of those. Cooking the fish on too high a heat will release a protein in the form of a white goo, so it’s best to keep the stove on medium-low during the cooking process.

Crispy and Crunchy

Some salmon pieces come skinless, but on the chance that there’s skin on your fish, don’t let it go to waste. Begin by placing the salmon skin-side down in the pan to get it lightly browned and crispy, then flip it over and cook the other side. You’ll forget all about chicken skin after tasting how good this is. 

Test the Temp

After all the effort of making salmon, the last thing you want is for it to be overcooked. Aim for medium to medium-rare, with the fish still pink in the center. A meat thermometer can be used to test how done the salmon is, with a temperature between 135-145°F being ideal. After removing it from the pan, allow the fish to rest for a few minutes, just as you would a steak. 

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]]> Keep Your Bread Fresh With These Tips https://falafelandcaviar.com/keep-your-bread-fresh-with-these-tips/ Tue, 13 Sep 2022 10:14:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=17029 When it’s crusty on the outside and soft on the inside, bread is the best thing since, well, the sliced version of itself. Bringing home a loaf from the bakery, farmers market, or grocery store comes with the dreams of soft slices and crispy toast. Here’s how to keep your bread at its best.  Store […]

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]]> When it’s crusty on the outside and soft on the inside, bread is the best thing since, well, the sliced version of itself. Bringing home a loaf from the bakery, farmers market, or grocery store comes with the dreams of soft slices and crispy toast. Here’s how to keep your bread at its best. 

Store It Safely

The place you store your bread is super important. Avoid spots like above the fridge where it’s too warm, or near the dishwasher where it’s too moist. Opt for somewhere cool and dry, and use a bread bin if you have one as they have small holes which allow air to circulate and keep the bread from molding.

Paper Over Plastic

Most bakeries sell their bread in paper bags and there is a reason that goes beyond the charming aesthetic. Storing bread in plastic bags encourages mold to grow. Instead, keep your loaf in a paper bag on the countertop and eat it within two to three days. 

Freeze It

Freezing is the best way to keep you loaf fresh for the longest time. Wrap it tightly in a freezer bag, either whole or sliced, and defrost it overnight in the fridge when needed. You can also “re-bake” the bread by popping it in the oven at 325F for 25-30 minutes.

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]]> Here Are the Best Ways to Prepare Salmon https://falafelandcaviar.com/here-are-the-best-ways-to-prepare-salmon/ Thu, 23 Apr 2020 06:34:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=14952 Have you just bought a filet of salmon and you aren’t quite sure what the best method for preparing it is? While salmon might seem like an intimidating fish to cook, there’s no need to worry because there are plenty of preparations that make this fish taste great. Here are the three best ways to […]

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]]> Have you just bought a filet of salmon and you aren’t quite sure what the best method for preparing it is? While salmon might seem like an intimidating fish to cook, there’s no need to worry because there are plenty of preparations that make this fish taste great.

Here are the three best ways to prepare salmon.

Pan-frying

Pan-frying salmon is one of my favorite ways to prepare a filet of this fish. I recommend adding a little bit of olive oil to a cast-iron pan, during your stove on medium heat, and cooking the fish until it is thoroughly done on both sides and in the middle, about 7-8 minutes total.

Baking

Baking is another easy way to prepare salmon, requiring very little effort and time. Depending on the size of your fillet, only about 8-10 minutes in an oven that has been pre-heated to 400 degrees Fahrenheit should do the trick.

Grilling

Are you lucky enough to own a grill? This is a great way to prepare salmon in a unique and exciting way. A charcoal grill can be a great solution, but if you have hickory chips or mesquite chips, this is a great way to leave the wood’s character on the salmon’s flavor.

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]]> How to Use Up Leftover Chicken Stock https://falafelandcaviar.com/how-to-use-up-leftover-chicken-stock/ Thu, 27 Feb 2020 12:39:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=14446 If you’ve just spent hours making the perfect homemade chicken stock, you surely don’t want it to go to waste. You may be wondering what to do with it. Chicken stock can act as a major ingredient in many delicious dishes. Here are some ways to make the best out of leftover chicken stock. Quinoa […]

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]]> If you’ve just spent hours making the perfect homemade chicken stock, you surely don’t want it to go to waste. You may be wondering what to do with it. Chicken stock can act as a major ingredient in many delicious dishes. Here are some ways to make the best out of leftover chicken stock.

Quinoa or Brown Rice

These nutritious grains are highly nutritious and full of vitamins, but they often lack flavor. Steaming quinoa or brown rice in chicken stock instead of water is a great way to infuse the grains with great taste.

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Is your house divided on it's thoughts of quinoa? Thankfully if I put enough soy sauce or cheese on it, I can win over just about any kid. However, I LOVE IT! I'm totally team quinoa and after you learn how easy it is to make in the Instant Pot, you will too! Come get the recipe!⠀ .⠀ Recipe at tidbits-marci.com. Link in Profile.⠀ .⠀ #marcitidbits #instantpotlove #instantpotrecipes #instantpotcooking #instantpotofficial #weeknightmeals #instantpot #simplemeals #healthycuisines #happyhealthy #healthyfam #healthyhappylife #nourishyoursoul #nurtureyourself #healyourbody #feedyourglow #healthyhappylife #nutrientdense #eatpretty #nutritiousanddelicious #healthysnacking #healthyyou #devourpower #tastyfood #eatinggood #sotasty #quinoa #superfoods #instantpotquinoa #pressurecooker

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Ramen

Although you may assume that chicken stock only works with chicken noodle soup, Asian style soups such as ramen become even tastier when they’re made with a homemade chicken stock base.

Mashed Potatoes

If you’re a sucker for mashed potatoes and gravy, but you don’t have any gravy around, you’ll love this idea. Pour some fresh chicken broth into your mashed potatoes for a gravy-like taste without the extra calories and work.

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Literally, won’t ever go back to the stovetop mashed potatoes. 🥔⁠ ⁠ Ever since the first time I experimented using the Instant Pot for mashed potatoes, I have never made them on the stove again. It’s just so simple and quick. I throw them in, let it do its thing and I go off and get something else done in the kitchen without having to babysit a pot of boiling water filled with potatoes. It doesn’t make a mess and it’s fast! I also love the fact that if I am not using them right away, I can leave it in the Instant Pot on the “keep warm” feature.⁠ ⁠ 👩🏻‍🍳Click the link in my profile bio for the recipe!⁠ ⁠ #danimade #recipe #ontheblog #foodblogger #easyrecipe #homecooking #dinnerideas #instantpot #mashedpotatoes #instantpotrecipes #easycooking #comfortfood #foodbloggersofig

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Risotto

Risotto can easily be made with water, but chicken stock is a lovely way to take this dish to the next level.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BzRyNhtFo13/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

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]]> Three Mistakes You Might Be Making While Boiling Pasta https://falafelandcaviar.com/three-mistakes-you-might-be-making-while-boiling-pasta/ Wed, 26 Feb 2020 10:35:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=14432 Preparing pasta might seem like a simple exercise, but the reality is that great care must be taken in order to ensure that your noodles turn out properly-cooked and ideally prepared for consumption. Amateur chefs often have trouble with this seemingly simple task. Here are some tips that will help you master the art of […]

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]]> Preparing pasta might seem like a simple exercise, but the reality is that great care must be taken in order to ensure that your noodles turn out properly-cooked and ideally prepared for consumption.

Amateur chefs often have trouble with this seemingly simple task. Here are some tips that will help you master the art of boiling pasta.

Boiling It For Too Long

One mistake that is far too easy to make is boiling for pasta for too much time. It’s far too common for people to leave their pasta boiling in water, get distracted by something else, and forget about it while it turns mushy and inedible. Depending on the pasta, 3-6 minutes is best.

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Kitchen Therapy Conversations: Boiling Pasta 101 Sometimes dishes that seem the simplest are the ones that need a good amount of precision to be perfect. When I started cooking, I believed pasta is the easiest dish in the world. But a few minutes overcooked, and you are left with mushiness, and a few minutes under, and you’re suffering from an upset stomach. I’ve laid out a 101 rulebook that includes everything – measurements, timings, how to store cooked pasta… everything that you need to arm yourself with before you begin your Italian dinner. Check out the article on the website KitchenTherapy.in Image: Shutterstock . . . #pasta #pasta101 #cooking #cookingrules #cooking101 #italiandishes #italiancooking #italiancuisine #spaghetti #macaroni #aldente #aldentecooking #KitchenTherapy #KitchenTherapyConversations #KaminiCooks #KaminiPatel #ChefKamini #boilingpasta #pastacooking #indianchefs #indiancooking #homecooking #homecooks #thekitchn #feedfeed #recipe #recipedevelopment

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Not Adding Salt

Anyone who’s ever grown up with an Italian grandmother will know that you absolutely must add salt to your pasta water before boiling! This allows the noodles to soak up a bit of saltiness and also keeps them from sticking together.

Not Stirring Gently

It’s very important to gently stir your pasta while it’s boiling to be sure that all of the noodles are cooked evenly and thoroughly. In addition, this also helps to keep the noodles from sticking together.

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]]> ersion="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?> tips and tricks Archives - falafelandcaviar.com Wed, 18 Oct 2023 17:57:16 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 Remember These Tips for Your Next Starbucks Trip https://falafelandcaviar.com/remember-these-tips-for-your-next-starbucks-trip/ Wed, 18 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=17044 Everyone has heard of the Starbucks “secret menu”. Whether or not it actually exists is still up for debate, but mentioning it is most likely going to annoy your barista… Next time you’re headed to a Starbucks, here are three things to bear in mind.  Trust Your Barista The person behind the counter knows more […]

The post Remember These Tips for Your Next Starbucks Trip appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Everyone has heard of the Starbucks “secret menu”. Whether or not it actually exists is still up for debate, but mentioning it is most likely going to annoy your barista… Next time you’re headed to a Starbucks, here are three things to bear in mind. 

Trust Your Barista

The person behind the counter knows more than you realize. Your barista has been well-versed on how to make coffee—particularly Starbucks’ own menu—and likely has a passion for the caffeinated liquid. Tell them what you enjoy and they’ll be sure to recommend something to suit your taste buds.

Learn to Let Go

Adore Pumpkin Spice Lattes? A huge fan of Peppermint Mochas? Starbucks’ seasonal drinks are some of their most popular items, but, as with life, everything has its season. The ingredients for these drinks are only available in store during their designated season which means that baristas can’t make you a PSL in May as much as you beg. 

Know Your Roast

Starbucks uses a dark roast espresso for their lattes, while most local shops use a medium roast espresso. If you enjoy your coffee strong, stick with dark; otherwise, ask your barista to rather make your drink with blonde espresso. 

The post Remember These Tips for Your Next Starbucks Trip appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> If Your Lettuce is Looking Sad, Try This Hack https://falafelandcaviar.com/if-your-lettuce-is-looking-sad-try-this-hack/ Wed, 01 Feb 2023 08:54:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=17644 If you think about it, lettuce can be quite a temperamental veggie. The shelf life of lettuce can vary, as it tends to wilt pretty quickly, and no one wants soggy lettuce. Unfortunately, with life being as busy as it is, it is not unusual to find a bag of lettuce in the fridge that you […]

The post If Your Lettuce is Looking Sad, Try This Hack appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> If you think about it, lettuce can be quite a temperamental veggie. The shelf life of lettuce can vary, as it tends to wilt pretty quickly, and no one wants soggy lettuce. Unfortunately, with life being as busy as it is, it is not unusual to find a bag of lettuce in the fridge that you bought a few weeks ago and now looks rather sad. 

Luckily, though, there are ways to revive lettuce leaves so they can return to their plump and crisp former selves. After all, lettuce is most definitely best served fresh.

It may seem logical to shock the greens by plunging them into ice-cold water, and yes, that is what many will advise you to do. Yet, we have an even better hack that will practically turn back time and make it seem as though those greens have just been picked.  

Instead of using cold water, we want you to do the complete opposite!

Fill a large bowl with very hot tap water and dunk in your wilted lettuce. Allow them to soak for 10-30 minutes before draining the water and wrapping them in a damp towel. Place them in the fridge to chill before using them. 

Your lettuce will feel brand new and you will feel better about not having used it weeks ago.

The post If Your Lettuce is Looking Sad, Try This Hack appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Make Store Bought Stock Taste Homemade With These Tips https://falafelandcaviar.com/make-stock-from-the-store-taste-homemade-with-these-tips/ Wed, 23 Nov 2022 08:21:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=17339 Good soup usually starts with stock. Unfortunately, good stock can take time to make—time which we don’t always have… The easiest solution is to buy some stock from the store and use these tips to make it seem like you’ve been slaving over a hot stove for hours.  Herbs Fragrant and fresh, herbs can do […]

The post Make Store Bought Stock Taste Homemade With These Tips appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Good soup usually starts with stock. Unfortunately, good stock can take time to make—time which we don’t always have… The easiest solution is to buy some stock from the store and use these tips to make it seem like you’ve been slaving over a hot stove for hours. 

Herbs

Fragrant and fresh, herbs can do wonders for stock. Particularly if they’re on the woody side. Grab a handful of fresh rosemary, thyme, oregano, sage, and tarragon, and let them simmer away.

Parmesan Rind

This may seem unconventional, but trust us, it works. Parmesan rinds are full of umami flavor that will bulk up your stock. Add around 3 rinds per quart of stock.

Garlic

Garlic goes with everything, and stock is not excluded. While we would never discourage you from putting in as much garlic as your heart desires, halve two heads of garlic per quart of stock to be safe.

Dried Mushrooms

Another great source of umami flavor is mushrooms. Earthy and rich in flavor, they can also add a meaty taste to a vegetable stock. Add 3–4 mushrooms to 1 quart of stock.

The post Make Store Bought Stock Taste Homemade With These Tips appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Make Flawless Fried Eggs With This Hack https://falafelandcaviar.com/make-flawless-fried-eggs-with-this-hack/ Thu, 03 Nov 2022 16:44:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=17258 A fried egg is more than just a breakfast food. Not only are they an egg-cellent source of protein (sorry, we had to), but they also contain important nutrients like vitamin B6, B12, and vitamin D, which makes them an ideal ingredient to start your day on.  But fried eggs also go wonderfully on burgers, […]

The post Make Flawless Fried Eggs With This Hack appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> A fried egg is more than just a breakfast food. Not only are they an egg-cellent source of protein (sorry, we had to), but they also contain important nutrients like vitamin B6, B12, and vitamin D, which makes them an ideal ingredient to start your day on. 

But fried eggs also go wonderfully on burgers, in sandwiches, and, of course, as a part of dozens of Asian noodle and rice dishes. So how do you make a perfect fried egg?

If scrambled eggs are the easiest, and poached eggs are the hardest, fried eggs fall somewhere in the middle. Although they seem simple, it can be tricky to get the egg white cooked but not burnt and to make sure the yellow is still runny but does not break. 

One way to fulfill your eggy dreams is to use water. 

Add a small amount of oil to a skillet on medium heat and crack in your eggs. After about 30 seconds, add some hot water to the pan and begin basting the eggs. Within 5 minutes, you should have fried eggs with runny yolks and set whites without a burnt edge or broken center in sight!

The post Make Flawless Fried Eggs With This Hack appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> 3 Tips for Top Tempura https://falafelandcaviar.com/3-tips-for-top-tempura/ Thu, 03 Nov 2022 08:47:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=17249 Alongside sushi and ramen, tempura is a favorite in Japanese cuisine. The crispy, crunchy batter coats everything from seafood to vegetables and has been around since the 16th century. In fact, the concept was introduced by Portuguese missionaries in Nagasaki who used to deep-fry using flour and eggs during religious periods when Catholics refrained from eating […]

The post 3 Tips for Top Tempura appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Alongside sushi and ramen, tempura is a favorite in Japanese cuisine. The crispy, crunchy batter coats everything from seafood to vegetables and has been around since the 16th century. In fact, the concept was introduced by Portuguese missionaries in Nagasaki who used to deep-fry using flour and eggs during religious periods when Catholics refrained from eating meat.  

Tempura batter is typically light and made from flour, eggs, and iced water. If you’re making your own, here are some tips to help.

Feel the Vibes

While your item is frying, it can be difficult to know when it is done. One way is to check how big the bubbles are—if they are large, it means there is still a lot of moisture and the item is not yet cooked through. Another way is to hold the item with chopsticks and feel the vibrations. Big vibes indicate that there is still some cooking to go. 

Take the “Oy” Out of Oil

Greasy tempura is not ideal. Oil from frying can cling to your tempura when taking it out, so pull out each piece out slowly, at an angle, to prevent this. 

Don’t Let Leftovers Go to Waste

If you have leftover batter, put it to good use by drizzling it into the hot oil and creating crunchy bits. When dusted with icing sugar, they make a delicious ice cream topping. 

The post 3 Tips for Top Tempura appeared first on falafelandcaviar.com.

]]> Make Perfect Salmon Every Time With These Tips https://falafelandcaviar.com/make-perfect-salmon-every-time-with-these-tips/ Wed, 02 Nov 2022 08:34:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=17247 Salmon is a dish so versatile that it is equally as good for a dinner party as it is for supper on a Tuesday night. There are many ways to prepare salmon—from glazing it with teriyaki sauce to baking it with lemon butter—but there are just as many ways to mess it up. To prevent […]

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]]> Salmon is a dish so versatile that it is equally as good for a dinner party as it is for supper on a Tuesday night. There are many ways to prepare salmon—from glazing it with teriyaki sauce to baking it with lemon butter—but there are just as many ways to mess it up. To prevent said travesty, here are some tricks to keep you swimming upstream. 

Keep Cool

With some proteins, a searing hot pan is needed. Salmon, however, is not one of those. Cooking the fish on too high a heat will release a protein in the form of a white goo, so it’s best to keep the stove on medium-low during the cooking process.

Crispy and Crunchy

Some salmon pieces come skinless, but on the chance that there’s skin on your fish, don’t let it go to waste. Begin by placing the salmon skin-side down in the pan to get it lightly browned and crispy, then flip it over and cook the other side. You’ll forget all about chicken skin after tasting how good this is. 

Test the Temp

After all the effort of making salmon, the last thing you want is for it to be overcooked. Aim for medium to medium-rare, with the fish still pink in the center. A meat thermometer can be used to test how done the salmon is, with a temperature between 135-145°F being ideal. After removing it from the pan, allow the fish to rest for a few minutes, just as you would a steak. 

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]]> Keep Your Bread Fresh With These Tips https://falafelandcaviar.com/keep-your-bread-fresh-with-these-tips/ Tue, 13 Sep 2022 10:14:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=17029 When it’s crusty on the outside and soft on the inside, bread is the best thing since, well, the sliced version of itself. Bringing home a loaf from the bakery, farmers market, or grocery store comes with the dreams of soft slices and crispy toast. Here’s how to keep your bread at its best.  Store […]

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]]> When it’s crusty on the outside and soft on the inside, bread is the best thing since, well, the sliced version of itself. Bringing home a loaf from the bakery, farmers market, or grocery store comes with the dreams of soft slices and crispy toast. Here’s how to keep your bread at its best. 

Store It Safely

The place you store your bread is super important. Avoid spots like above the fridge where it’s too warm, or near the dishwasher where it’s too moist. Opt for somewhere cool and dry, and use a bread bin if you have one as they have small holes which allow air to circulate and keep the bread from molding.

Paper Over Plastic

Most bakeries sell their bread in paper bags and there is a reason that goes beyond the charming aesthetic. Storing bread in plastic bags encourages mold to grow. Instead, keep your loaf in a paper bag on the countertop and eat it within two to three days. 

Freeze It

Freezing is the best way to keep you loaf fresh for the longest time. Wrap it tightly in a freezer bag, either whole or sliced, and defrost it overnight in the fridge when needed. You can also “re-bake” the bread by popping it in the oven at 325F for 25-30 minutes.

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]]> Here Are the Best Ways to Prepare Salmon https://falafelandcaviar.com/here-are-the-best-ways-to-prepare-salmon/ Thu, 23 Apr 2020 06:34:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=14952 Have you just bought a filet of salmon and you aren’t quite sure what the best method for preparing it is? While salmon might seem like an intimidating fish to cook, there’s no need to worry because there are plenty of preparations that make this fish taste great. Here are the three best ways to […]

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]]> Have you just bought a filet of salmon and you aren’t quite sure what the best method for preparing it is? While salmon might seem like an intimidating fish to cook, there’s no need to worry because there are plenty of preparations that make this fish taste great.

Here are the three best ways to prepare salmon.

Pan-frying

Pan-frying salmon is one of my favorite ways to prepare a filet of this fish. I recommend adding a little bit of olive oil to a cast-iron pan, during your stove on medium heat, and cooking the fish until it is thoroughly done on both sides and in the middle, about 7-8 minutes total.

Baking

Baking is another easy way to prepare salmon, requiring very little effort and time. Depending on the size of your fillet, only about 8-10 minutes in an oven that has been pre-heated to 400 degrees Fahrenheit should do the trick.

Grilling

Are you lucky enough to own a grill? This is a great way to prepare salmon in a unique and exciting way. A charcoal grill can be a great solution, but if you have hickory chips or mesquite chips, this is a great way to leave the wood’s character on the salmon’s flavor.

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]]> How to Use Up Leftover Chicken Stock https://falafelandcaviar.com/how-to-use-up-leftover-chicken-stock/ Thu, 27 Feb 2020 12:39:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=14446 If you’ve just spent hours making the perfect homemade chicken stock, you surely don’t want it to go to waste. You may be wondering what to do with it. Chicken stock can act as a major ingredient in many delicious dishes. Here are some ways to make the best out of leftover chicken stock. Quinoa […]

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]]> If you’ve just spent hours making the perfect homemade chicken stock, you surely don’t want it to go to waste. You may be wondering what to do with it. Chicken stock can act as a major ingredient in many delicious dishes. Here are some ways to make the best out of leftover chicken stock.

Quinoa or Brown Rice

These nutritious grains are highly nutritious and full of vitamins, but they often lack flavor. Steaming quinoa or brown rice in chicken stock instead of water is a great way to infuse the grains with great taste.

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Is your house divided on it's thoughts of quinoa? Thankfully if I put enough soy sauce or cheese on it, I can win over just about any kid. However, I LOVE IT! I'm totally team quinoa and after you learn how easy it is to make in the Instant Pot, you will too! Come get the recipe!⠀ .⠀ Recipe at tidbits-marci.com. Link in Profile.⠀ .⠀ #marcitidbits #instantpotlove #instantpotrecipes #instantpotcooking #instantpotofficial #weeknightmeals #instantpot #simplemeals #healthycuisines #happyhealthy #healthyfam #healthyhappylife #nourishyoursoul #nurtureyourself #healyourbody #feedyourglow #healthyhappylife #nutrientdense #eatpretty #nutritiousanddelicious #healthysnacking #healthyyou #devourpower #tastyfood #eatinggood #sotasty #quinoa #superfoods #instantpotquinoa #pressurecooker

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Ramen

Although you may assume that chicken stock only works with chicken noodle soup, Asian style soups such as ramen become even tastier when they’re made with a homemade chicken stock base.

Mashed Potatoes

If you’re a sucker for mashed potatoes and gravy, but you don’t have any gravy around, you’ll love this idea. Pour some fresh chicken broth into your mashed potatoes for a gravy-like taste without the extra calories and work.

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Literally, won’t ever go back to the stovetop mashed potatoes. 🥔⁠ ⁠ Ever since the first time I experimented using the Instant Pot for mashed potatoes, I have never made them on the stove again. It’s just so simple and quick. I throw them in, let it do its thing and I go off and get something else done in the kitchen without having to babysit a pot of boiling water filled with potatoes. It doesn’t make a mess and it’s fast! I also love the fact that if I am not using them right away, I can leave it in the Instant Pot on the “keep warm” feature.⁠ ⁠ 👩🏻‍🍳Click the link in my profile bio for the recipe!⁠ ⁠ #danimade #recipe #ontheblog #foodblogger #easyrecipe #homecooking #dinnerideas #instantpot #mashedpotatoes #instantpotrecipes #easycooking #comfortfood #foodbloggersofig

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Risotto

Risotto can easily be made with water, but chicken stock is a lovely way to take this dish to the next level.

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]]> Three Mistakes You Might Be Making While Boiling Pasta https://falafelandcaviar.com/three-mistakes-you-might-be-making-while-boiling-pasta/ Wed, 26 Feb 2020 10:35:00 +0000 https://falafelandcaviar.com/?p=14432 Preparing pasta might seem like a simple exercise, but the reality is that great care must be taken in order to ensure that your noodles turn out properly-cooked and ideally prepared for consumption. Amateur chefs often have trouble with this seemingly simple task. Here are some tips that will help you master the art of […]

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]]> Preparing pasta might seem like a simple exercise, but the reality is that great care must be taken in order to ensure that your noodles turn out properly-cooked and ideally prepared for consumption.

Amateur chefs often have trouble with this seemingly simple task. Here are some tips that will help you master the art of boiling pasta.

Boiling It For Too Long

One mistake that is far too easy to make is boiling for pasta for too much time. It’s far too common for people to leave their pasta boiling in water, get distracted by something else, and forget about it while it turns mushy and inedible. Depending on the pasta, 3-6 minutes is best.

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Kitchen Therapy Conversations: Boiling Pasta 101 Sometimes dishes that seem the simplest are the ones that need a good amount of precision to be perfect. When I started cooking, I believed pasta is the easiest dish in the world. But a few minutes overcooked, and you are left with mushiness, and a few minutes under, and you’re suffering from an upset stomach. I’ve laid out a 101 rulebook that includes everything – measurements, timings, how to store cooked pasta… everything that you need to arm yourself with before you begin your Italian dinner. Check out the article on the website KitchenTherapy.in Image: Shutterstock . . . #pasta #pasta101 #cooking #cookingrules #cooking101 #italiandishes #italiancooking #italiancuisine #spaghetti #macaroni #aldente #aldentecooking #KitchenTherapy #KitchenTherapyConversations #KaminiCooks #KaminiPatel #ChefKamini #boilingpasta #pastacooking #indianchefs #indiancooking #homecooking #homecooks #thekitchn #feedfeed #recipe #recipedevelopment

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Not Adding Salt

Anyone who’s ever grown up with an Italian grandmother will know that you absolutely must add salt to your pasta water before boiling! This allows the noodles to soak up a bit of saltiness and also keeps them from sticking together.

Not Stirring Gently

It’s very important to gently stir your pasta while it’s boiling to be sure that all of the noodles are cooked evenly and thoroughly. In addition, this also helps to keep the noodles from sticking together.

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