DASH. OF. THIS. AND. THAT
Tastefully Yours!
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What type of pots do I purchase?
Tablecloths- company is coming- Cloth Only!
. Have fun with different colors and patterns.
. Lighter colors tend to lead the eye to colorful foods.
. Use white for formal gatherings.
. For extra elegance, use a "silence" cloth under the main tablecloth, smooth any creases before topping with a second tablecloth. It helps to cushion noises of cutlery and plate shifting during your meal. It also protects the table and prevents the main tablecloth from sliding.
. Spend a little more and buy stain resistent, wrinkle resistent, washable tablecloths.
. To remove creases on a stored tablecloth, slightly dampen and place in the dryer on a cool setting, when dry- immediately remove from the dryer and place on table, smoothing the surface.
This is a big debate. You are bound to have your own favorites.
. One thing we steer clear from is aluminum pots- they are not worth the risk. Also non-stick pots and pans that easily scratch and peel- probably not a good sign.
. Invest in high quality iron clad, stainless steel, enamel, heavy dutch ovens, Earthenware, Ceramic, tempered glass, and cast iron with well known trusted brand names and warranties, it is worth it. They should be a one time purchase- lasting a lifetime. In the long run you save money and get better results.
. If money is an issue, look for sales, buy them piece by piece. First buying your "go to" pots, the ones you use most often, ie: medium saucepan, large saucepan, 10 inch skillet etc. Many pots from sets are not used. We definitely have our favorites.
. Pots/ skillets that go from stove to oven are a plus.
. Glass covers- help to view what's cooking.
. Check the one piece construction solid handles. Check for quality of wood and plastic handles.
. Buy removable silicone coverings for handles..
. A sauce pan with a spout and drain holes on the side are very convenient for cooking liquids, sauces, steaming vegetables and pasta.
. Use cold ingredients and bowls-refrigerate if necessary.
. Try and use cool hands- work quickly when "cutting in" . Or use a pulse setting with a food processor. Do not overwork or press hard- you want to keep fat bits in tact for flakiness.
. Rest your dough for at least 30 minutes. This relaxes the gluten making it easier to roll and more tender.
. Roll in lightly floured waxed paper, excess flour makes it tough.
. Chill the rolled out crust in pie dish before baking-15 minutes
. Brush with an egg wash for a golden sheen.
. Use dried beans or rice for blind baking.
. do not pour hot liquids onto an unbaked pie shell
. pre-bake your pie crust for liquid fillings.
. Pinch/press dough between thumb and forefinger to flute edge
. slice different colored peppers in super fine strips and curls
. scallions, cabbage, lettuce, sliced in super fine strips and curls
. minced parsley, chopped parsley, whole parsley
. garnish with glazes, syrups and flavored oils dotted or squiggled . fresh fruit slices, strips, citrus zest.
. pansies, nasturtium, orchids
. carrot curls, strips
. cherry tomatoes and olives , whole, sliced, stuffed
. alfalfa sprouts, water cress, chives
. basil, spinach, zucchini- chiffonade
. Rosemary, dill, sage, thyme sprigs, chopped, minced
. assorted pickles
. crushed nuts
. nut brittle, crushed candy
. confectioner's sugar
Eggs too cold?
Garnishing Foods- so much fun- so many possibilities- doesn't have to be costly. some ideas
Helpful Kitchen Hints
Choose The Right Centerpiece For Your Table. So many choices.
Pastry Dough- Tips for better results.
Lemons- Don't throw away any leftover-- hints and uses.
Clean out sink drains
Use room temperature eggs for baking. You can quickly bring eggs to room temperature by submerging in hot water for two minutes
. A centerpiece is the focal point of the table and makes quite an impression.
. Size, Shape, Color and Texture should all be considered.
. Keep in mind you do not want it to block anyone's view. Unless you remove the centerpiece at mealtime.
. If it is too large- it might dwarf everything else on the table and/or not provide enough room for everything else.
. A very tall vase- can be stunning and avoids blocked views.
. Use colors to compliment the meal, room, season, occasion etc.
. Flowers and greens from your own garden can make stunning bouquets.
. Greens by themselves, such as hostas and variegated grasses in colored glass vases or pitchers is very attractive.
. Coleus , Alternanthera, and sedum might even root if you leave them in water long enough. There are others but check for toxicity- if children and pets are present.
. Colored glass candle holders, vases are striking.
. Candles at different heights and colors, play with the eyes.
. Confetti can add sparkle, if you have the patience to clean it up.
. Colored leaves, ornaments, runners and delicate garlands.
. Store whole lemons in the refrigerator for 2-3 weeks.
. Use only the yellow part of lemons when zesting- the white pith is usually bitter.
. For better juice extraction- firmly press all sides of a lemon with the palm of your hand.
Don't throw away any leftover:
. Wash your hands with it, it helps to refreshen and remove stains.
. Clean your cutting boards and counters with it, it helps disinfect.
. Cleanse your face and skin with it.
. Add it to beverages, it helps with digestion too!
. Rub your elbows with it, helps to lighten the skin.
A paper clip attached to the end of a long crochet needle does the trick!
Place Settings- Knife, Fork and Spoon-some hints to remember
