Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Why the Best Cooks Choose KitchenAid

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Douglas_Barker]Douglas Barker
So, what's so great about the KitchenAid food mixer products? Well, in a nutshell, they are very well made, durable, long lasting, and versatile. They do all the tasks you would expect from them and they do them well. Built like a horse, they are trusty and always reliable.
That's not to say they are not equally delicate when they come to your finer creations. Yes, of course they are. But it's the fact they're simple, easy to operate, and simply do what you need them to do. But then good cooking is not a high tech science (although some might have you believe that it is), it's all about tasks. They're laborious tasks, but very necessary tasks, which need to be repeated again and again.
Ever tried mixing cake mix, or bread dough, by hand? What a job it is! It's very arduous and very tough to do. That's why you need a tough tool to automate the process, and which is strong enough to see the task through. And then some, you also need it to stand the test of time, and keep working for you well into the future without breaking down.
Enter the KitchenAid mixers. Well, not exactly enter. After all, they been making them since 1919 so they've already been around for a very long time indeed. But that's the point. They know mixers inside out. And they know exactly what good cooks need. If they didn't they wouldn't have survived so long. And, more importantly, they wouldn't have been consistently featured in the top five by Good Housekeeping magazine year after year.
Quite simply, if you want a mixer that has flashing lights, blows a horn, and sings a song each time you complete each task then read no further. However, if you want a food mixer (strong enough to carry out any food mixing task and on which you can rely) then you're reading the correct article.
Originally manufactured by the Hobart Company in 1919 they are still assembling the mixers by hand in Ohio today. Its American inventiveness and manufacturing quality at its very best. They took the market by storm 92 years ago and they've retained their market reputation ever since. Bought over by Whirlpool (who know a good thing when they see it) the mixers have retained that old fashioned look that makes them so eye catching on any kitchen countertop.
Indeed, Whirlpool were smart to not only keep the name but they also kept the design ethos that does with it. But what's really clever is they're now produced in really modern striking colours that blend perfectly with every kitchen decor, both traditional and new.
They're like the Bentley of the food mixer industry. Sitting consciously on any kitchen counter top, they are a talking point. Indeed, often left out on purpose, they speak volumes about the owners taste. And they also suggest the owner is a good cook, or potentially so, too.
The artisan range comes with a tilt back head which makes accessing the mixing bowl, and inserting or removing the mixing attachments, a doddle. The bowl and attachments lock easily and neatly into place which keeps them stable during any mixing operations.
The artisan mixer range comes with a simple chute which can be temporarily attached to the side of the bowl to ensure that ingredients (particularly the powdery variety) end up in the bowl and not dispersed over the countertop, or indeed all over the floor. The base and stand merely need a wipe down with a standard kitchen cloth and the bowl and attachments are easily washed in normal household washing up liquid - simplicity itself.
Three key attachments come with each mixer as standard. All are of strong build and durable. The dough hook pounds even the toughest of dough's. The flat beater makes easy work out of batters, meat loaf, and the like. Whilst the whisk delicately whips creams, mayonnaise, souffl�s, or anything else that takes your fancy.
The base sits on small rubber stops which prevent the solid base from scratching your countertops, keeps the mixer stable during all mixing operations, and prevents the mixer from sliding off the countertop onto the floor.
Mostly with 10 speeds all mixing tasks are fully catered for, from the slow stir, through the steady kneading of dough, to the very high whisk. Although one of the models provides a see-through bowl which is handy when you want to look at the consistency of your mix from top to bottom, generally the bowels are made of a sturdy and highly polished stainless steel shiny construction and come with a handle ergonomically designed to fit the hand like a glove - making lifting operations easy.
Of particular interest is the unique mixing technology in which the beater spins clockwise whilst the shaft spins in the opposite direction, at the same time. This causes the beater to touch sixty seven different points in the bowl which ensures every mix is very thorough. And, of course, this avoid the need to turn the bowl manually.
And, if that wasn't enough then optional attachments are available which turn your mixer into a juicer, or a sausage stuffer, amongst many other things.
Douglas Barker is a writer who specialises in key fact type articles for a wide range of interesting life improvement subjects. You can check out the website which relates to this subject at [http://www.kitchenaidartisanmixercenter.com]KitchenAid Artisan Mixer Center, where he zeros in on essential facts relating to the KitchenAid Artisan series of food mixers, and which includes facts on the [http://www.kitchenaidartisanmixercenter.com/artisan_stand_mixer.html]Artisan Stand Mixer, and much more.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Why-the-Best-Cooks-Choose-KitchenAid&id=6729958] Why the Best Cooks Choose KitchenAid

Sunday, January 29, 2012

When Is a Vinegar Not a Vinegar?

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Norm_Huffnagle]Norm Huffnagle
On my last trip to Italy, I decided to mix pleasure with business. While in Rome, we were overwhelmed by the fantastic architecture, the almost indescribable beauty of the Sistine Chapel, and the gastronomical delights in almost any restaurant in the city. We had been warned that "Pasta dishes in Italy are not what you think. In America we have sauce with pasta. In Italy, it's pasta with sauce!" And that's what we found: the pasta had almost no sauce on it. That lets the flavors of the pasta come through unmasked, but it was a surprise which, we were told, can be alleviated by asking for more sauce, and also asking for "meat sauce".
What we were not prepared for, and it was an extremely pleasant surprise, was the appetizer: bread with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Here, in the "colonies", when we are served balsamic vinegar, it's like all other vinegars - acidic and sour. In Italy, nothing is farther from the truth. Balsamic vinegar is described in Wikipedia as "..The original traditional product (Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale), made from a reduction of cooked white Trebbiano grape juice and not a vinegar in the usual sense, has been made in Modena and Reggio Emilia since the Middle Ages: the production of the balsamic vinegar is mentioned in a document dated 1046. During the Renaissance, it was appreciated in the House of Este. Today, the traditional balsamic vinegar is highly valued by chefs and gourmet food lovers."
"Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale" is prepared in a process similar to how fine sherry is created: aged in barrels of various woods for years, during which its volume is reduced by natural evaporation. Again, from Wikipedia: "True balsamic vinegar is rich, glossy, deep brown in color and has a complex flavour that balances the natural sweet and sour elements of the cooked grape juice with hints of wood from the casks".
You don't have to travel to Italy or visit on-line importers to find and enjoy these rare tastes. I'm going to show you what to look for, and how to sort quickly between various brands in your local stores.
First, the obvious: look for vinegars that say that they are "traditional", or actually say on the tag that they have been aged at least 12 years, or are recommended to be poured over ice cream or pastry. The second step is to pick the bottle up and tip it. The liquid inside should flow thickly. If it flows like water, it's probably not what you want. The third step is to tip the bottle so that the liquid flows up over the inside of the neck. Aged product will actually coat the glass of the neck. If it doesn't leave a coat on the neck, it's probably not sweet. I have found that most aged liquids may be bottled and sold in rectangular, squat bottles. But be prepared: good, aged balsamic vinegars can be costly: it's not uncommon to find aged traditional balsamic vinegars that can cost between $150 to $400 for a 100 ml bottle. However, acceptable, sweet, aged, traditional balsamic vinegar can be bought at markets like Whole Foods for under $30.
Norm Huffnagle enjoys sharing exotic recipes with friends and family. Although more of a 'gourmand' than a 'gourmet', he does 'dabble'in that arcane art of unconventional cooking to the point that he has actually been invited back to do repeat performances. Norm specializes in ancient Chinese dishes, various flavors of Chilis, contemporary Mediterranean cuisine, and occasionally fiery Mexican preparations.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?When-Is-a-Vinegar-Not-a-Vinegar?&id=6737437] When Is a Vinegar Not a Vinegar?

Friday, January 27, 2012

Why You Should Be Cooking Gourmet-Style

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Mishi_Bhatnagar]Mishi Bhatnagar
Gourmet meals can be the breath of fresh air in your hurried routine life. Its an old saying that it is the belly that rules the mind. And mixing pleasure in the satisfying of your food needs is what gourmet cooking is all about. Just a few simple changes in your cooking ways have the power to transform your rushed fry-ups and eating for the hell of it experiences into the reprieve that you have been searching for. Cooking gourmet will make mealtimes the most anticipated time of the day in your routine.
Even though it may seem like its impossible for you to fit all that hard work that goes into this style of cooking, in your busy schedule. trust me, it really is worth the effort. After all the most basic reason why we work so hard throughout our lives is to earn and provide food to ourselves and our families. But in this race of earning more, we tend to neglect this most primal need of ours. Why not take time out and pamper ourselves? Why not take pleasure in satisfying our stomachs? I say after all that hard work, we DESERVE to sit back, relax and enjoy a scrumptious meal that satisfies our every craving.
So what do we have to do? Certainly enrolling for a culinary school is out of the question for most of us. The important thing here is to understand that even though it sounds like gourmet cooking and recipes are those highly complicated and increasingly technical affairs that you are definitely going to mess up, that really isn't the case. Sure, there are certain skills that you will need to practice, but you have to understand that gourmet cooking is an art. and therefore there is no set specific procedure to creating masterpieces. Just like the fine arts, the creations of cooks are an expression of themselves, their personalities, their choices and passions. Each culinary masterpiece is unique to that individual, communicating his style and story. So even though you have to learn a few required skills (just like an artist needs to learn how to hold a brush) the rest is up to you. You can move forth, experiment, go crazy, and create wonderful expressions of yourself.
So dont be afraid the next time you have to cook dinner for a party at home or are thinking about a family dinner in style. Even though that recipe in the cookbook you just bought scares the hell out of you, remember, whatever it is that you are cooking is all about YOU. All you need is the best of ingredients, some creativity and voila-here's your masterpiece. So just pick up those knives and ladles and show them the love.
For recipes and tips, visit Mishi Bhatnagar's gourmet cooking blog < http://cooking-gourmet.com >
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Why-You-Should-Be-Cooking-Gourmet-Style&id=6738483] Why You Should Be Cooking Gourmet-Style

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Bread Slicing Tips - What Is the Best Way to Cut Homemade Bread?

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Terry_Retter]Terry Retter
A beautiful food presentation is one of the aspects of something delicious, and that does not exclude bread. A plain sandwich with perfectly-sliced bread can offer one of the best sandwiches; and in order to produce that perfect food, you need to flawlessly slice the bread first. If you've worked in artisan bakeries, you most likely have inherited the art of bread-slicing and how expert pastry chefs cut and slice bread into perfection. But if you haven't, allow me to share some of their secrets. 
Don't try to cut fresh from the oven bread as much as possible. Allow it to cool completely or it will mash. If you're eating the bread warm, always use a very sharp bread knife. The outer crust of homemade bread is usually tougher than store-bought loaf breads, so you need a sharp blade for a smooth slice without the inside bread lumping up.
Although you can slice fresh bread with any sharp kitchen knife, certain knife qualities can better render clean bread slices. Cutting the bread using an offset serrated knife and in a sawing motion is your best bet. A serrated knife is proven to deliver the cleanest and effortless slice. Try using a 9" or longer bread knife blade if you're slicing large homemade loaves. When cutting, turn the bread on its side. The crusty bottom is much easier to cut through. Do not push down while you're cutting the slices, instead use a sawing motion. This way you will keep the bread from being squished down.
To get thin and even slices, use a bread slicing guide. A slicing guide is basically a box-shaped wood with series of slots along both sides. For years, I had been using a large serrated bread knife that had one built in, but these days you can already pick up some that will work with any knife.The bread is simply placed inside of the guide and the slicing knife is run through the guide slits to slice the bread perfectly. Using a guide is important as this gives the slicer more control of the size of the slices.
Take these tips and have your own slice of bread that doesn't look like a machine sliced it. You will be able to slice bread according to its use. Whether you want thinner or fatter slices, all depends on your mood. If you try to find, there are premium-quality bread knives at affordable prices. All it takes is to find the most suitable one you need before attempting to use the bread slicing guides. As long as it's serrated, and the blade is set well in the handle, you're good to go. Just see to it that the slits are wide enough to allow the bread knife to glide through with ease.
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Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Bread-Slicing-Tips---What-Is-the-Best-Way-to-Cut-Homemade-Bread?&id=6745569] Bread Slicing Tips - What Is the Best Way to Cut Homemade Bread?

Monday, January 23, 2012

Food Dehydrator - What You Need to Know About It

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Maria_L_Middleton]Maria L Middleton
What exactly is a food dehydrator? Although these machines have been around for ages, not a lot of people are very familiar with them. In a nutshell, dehydrators are small home appliances designed to dry fresh food easily.
These machines come in different sizes and shapes. They are used for drying meats, fruits or vegetables. They are also adequate for drying herbs which allows owners to save compared to buying them from the grocery.
The two most popular shapes for a food dehydrator are circular and rectangular. While circular machines have a more appeal, the rectangular ones are actually more practical. For instance, rectangular dehydrators are easier to store as they maximized all sides of a cabinet or cupboard. It's also easier to arrange foods for drying in a rectangular tray as you don't have to deal with bends.
Depending on the kind of food that you want to dry, drying may take a couple of hours or even days. For instance, an apple cut into �" slices and dried at 135 F takes around 7 to 15 hours. Watermelon, on the other hand, only takes 8 - 10 hours.
Food dehydrators work by blowing warm air throughout the machine. Depending on the design, it could either blow air from the bottom up or from one side to the other. If you're going to dry different kinds of food, it would be best to choose the latter. When a dehydrator blows air horizontally, there are fewer chances for the tastes from the different food mixing together.
There are a lot of advantages in dehydrating food. Health-wise, dehydrated foods don't contain the chemicals that canned foods do. It's also a lot cheaper drying foods at home than buying preserved foods from the store.
If it's your first time to dry foods, there's no need to worry. There are a lot of sites dedicated to food dehydration which provides recipes and guides on the correct drying hours as well as machine-cleaning, etc.
If you don't have a food dehydrator yet, but are planning to buy one, it's just smart to do a research online as the first step. Food dehydrators are created differently to cater to different needs. Find out what your needs are in order for you to find the best food dehydrator for you. Read forums and reviews and ask family and friends on the brand or model that they recommend.
Of course, always look for dehydrators that come with a warranty. They may cost a bit more, but at least you're assured that your machine would be replaced or repaired for free should anything happen to it.
Maria Middleton is a chef who has been in the field for 20 years. Writing is one of her many hobbies and she loves writing about cooking, cooking supplies such as [http://www.fooddehydrator.biz/]food dehydrator and sharing wonderful recipes with her readers.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Food-Dehydrator---What-You-Need-to-Know-About-It&id=6732600] Food Dehydrator - What You Need to Know About It

Saturday, January 21, 2012

The Evolution of the Refrigerator

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Mehar_Ali_Maha]Mehar Ali Maha
Refrigerators have come a long way since the original bulky ice box. They are now an absolute necessity for any kitchen area. It took forty years from the actual inception of the refrigerator for them to be used safely inside the home.
Dr. William Cullen has often been called the pioneer of the refrigerator. He performed experiments in the 1800's on how liquid evaporates in a vacuum setting. These early studies done by Cullen and other scientists led to the development of the original refrigerator. A process was perfected that led to the understanding of how large amounts of liquids could be converted to a gas.
The very first refrigerators were not safe to use inside the home, because they used toxic gas to operate. Sometimes this gas would leak, making them not suitable for home use. Around 1915 they came usable within the home and looked similar to how they look today. They have only been produced for mass use since the 1940's.
The original ice boxes operated by taking water from mountain run off or snow and placing the water in the icebox to keep foods chilled.This procedure only worked for a few months out of the year. Since eventually the ice would melt, many of these refrigerators came with a drip pan installed inside of it to catch the run-off. People had to be very creative and make use of their natural surroundings to keep their food from spoiling. In the summer months there was no snow available to properly chill the food. Many times these archaic refrigerators were simple wooden boxes lined with any of a variety of metal materials.
Refrigerators have come a very long way since the original simple insulated box. Aesthetically refrigerators are now far more appealing to the eye as well. The modern refrigerator comes in all shapes and styles with placement of the freezer optional. Some freezers are located at the top of the refrigerator and some are side by side models. The more expensive models have them located at the most energy efficient location at the bottom.
You can also buy dorm sized refrigerators for the ultimate in convenience. Whatever your personal need is, there is a refrigerator that can suit your budget. There are many sites online that showcase the differing brands and styles of the modern day refrigerator. If you are in the market for a new refrigerator, there are many options available to you in a wide range of prices. Look online today and find one that suits your needs and budget.
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Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Evolution-of-the-Refrigerator&id=6743524] The Evolution of the Refrigerator

Thursday, January 19, 2012

How to Cook Healthy

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Andreas_Huppert]Andreas Huppert
We all know, cooking is a way to prepare our food, we want to influence its taste and its nutritional value, some food doesn't necessarily have to be cooked, some food definitely must be cooked.
The main purposes of cooking are:
- the food shall take an appetizing colour and shape
- the taste shall be improved
- the appetite shall be stimulated through the formation of odours, flavours and fragrances
- the food shall take a softer consistence for better chewing and digestion
- Existing bacteria shall be killed
- Preservability of the food shall be ensured
- Increase of the nutritional value
We should not forget, the cooking can also have negative effects, for example the formation of harmful substances by the heat, just think about the charred meat from the last barbecue or the formation of polymeric compounds when deep-frying food.
Heat-sensitive vitamins can be destroyed (especially vitamin C and the vitamins of the B-group, all of which are vital for the human organism).
If we cook a meal too long, vital amino acids can be destroyed and some vitamins and mineral salts can escape the food.
There are plenty of cooking methods, each with its individual advantages and disadvantages, it's important to find the best one for your food to ensure quality, taste and of course the look.
Roasting and cooking in all their forms are the oldest and most traditional cooking methods, whereas stewing is the "moist" and low temperature way of preparing food, the original nutritional value almost doesn't get affected. Mineral salts and other water soluble ingredients don't escape the food, which is good.
My favourite way of cooking is pressure cooking, it's the healthiest and most diet conscious way of preparing a meal.
A quality pressure cooker makes a huge difference in the kitchen, nowadays I prepare almost all my meals with my pressure cooker, except of course when I'm baking a pie.
Apart from the health aspect it's also the most time and energy saving way of cooking. You save up to 70% of cooking time and therefore energy.
The lid of the pressure cooker seals the pot entirely which means that absolutely not a single ingredient can escape.
Another issue, especially for lazy people like me, is that I can prepare entire meals in just one pot, which means much less cleaning effort, but that's just a side note since we're talking about the health aspect here.
In conclusion, it's a proven and logical fact that there is no healthier way to prepare food than with a pressure cooker, you will never regret the purchase.
Andreas Huppert is a hardcore cooking enthusiast who always tries to find new ways to prepare a healthy meal as quick and easy as possible. Check out his website at [http://www.wmfpressurecooker.org]WMF Pressure Cooker where he reviews the great pressure cookers of WMF.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Cook-Healthy&id=6745171] How to Cook Healthy

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Choosing Safe Cookware Translates To Healthier Food

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Rachel_Grishe]Rachel Grishe
We choose with great care what we eat; it is also important to choose the right kind of cookware with which we cook our food. With so many options available in the market, choosing safe cookware is surely a challenge. Earlier times saw us just buying and using cookware. It is not that simple any longer. The possibility of the harmful toxins that could come out of the cookware that we regularly use and the consequences of their accumulation in our body is a scary prospect.
Several factors come into play when choosing cookware. The material that the cookware is made of, its shape, size, etc., are some of them. The cookware should be able to conduct heat efficiently and one should not be ingesting poisonous chemicals along with the cooked food.
Cookware that we commonly find in kitchens are made from materials such as stainless steel, cast iron, anodized cast iron, Teflon coated nonstick varieties, copper clad, ceramic, anodized aluminum, etc. Detailed below are characteristics of the cookware that we commonly use:
Stainless Steel: It is among the most popular choices because of its durability, safety, and cost. It is easy to clean too. It is non-breakable and scratch resistant. There is no leaching of any kind and therefore does not alter the flavor of the food that it cooks. On the flip side, it is heavy and distributes heat unevenly.
Aluminum: Aluminum is a material frequently used for making cookware. It conducts heat easily and is cost effective. Though it has been popular for many years for these reasons, recent findings point out that aluminum leaches when heated to certain temperatures, when it comes in contact with acid-bearing foods, and when cooked food is stored in aluminum vessels for long periods of time. With some research pointing at aluminum as one of the causes for Alzheimer's disease, aluminum cookware is not worth the savings in cost. Anodized aluminum and enameled aluminum are safe but leach with age and wear and tear. Aluminum toxicity is known to cause memory loss, liver and kidney problems, softening of bones, etc.
Cast Iron: Cast iron is reasonably safe for cooking. It has to be seasoned properly to prevent it from rusting. It retains heat well though it is not a good conductor. Cast iron cookware is a cheap and safe option.
Teflon-coated Cookware: Though popular, this type of cookware has been found to be unsafe because they emit toxic fumes that include carcinogens when they are heated above a certain temperature. Some compounds have purportedly been found in the environment without having broken down and some others in the human blood.
Ceramic: Ceramic cookware is a safe medium to cook in. However, ensure that the ceramic coating is free of lead. Glass, lead-free ceramic and clay can be used in baking ovens.
Teflon-free Titanium: This product has gained popularity in recent times. This product is scratch resistant and long lasting. It is easy to clean and light in weight. Such cookware is made of pure titanium metal. It is a good conductor of heat and safe to cook in. However, not many titanium products are available in the market.
Copper: Copper vessels are expensive. Copper also tends to react with certain ingredients that are cooked in it and may alter the flavor and taste of food. It conducts heat well and allows for even spreading of heat. It is long lasting but not non-stick.
Ultimately, the type of cooking and the price determine the choice of cookware. However, the bottom line is that by choosing safe cookware you can have healthier food.
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Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Choosing-Safe-Cookware-Translates-To-Healthier-Food&id=6751249] Choosing Safe Cookware Translates To Healthier Food

Sunday, January 15, 2012

Gourmet Cooking - Is It Really As Difficult As It Seems?

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Mishi_Bhatnagar]Mishi Bhatnagar
One of the very best things about life is the way we must regularly stop whatever it is we are doing and devote our attention to eating. And what a pleasure it must be to be able to touch peoples lives and please them with our cooking.
Now gourmet cooking does not really mean complicated dishes presented with extravagant grandeur. The beauty of gourmet recipes is in their simplicity, their freshness and of course presentation. It incorporates creating a subtle balance of flavours and taking your guests on a culinary experience that they will never forget.
I know you may feel that that gourmet meals are beyond your reach, what with all the skill involved in preparing the food and the fast paced lifestyle that we are now resigned to follow. Where will you find the time to learn the art that is gourmet cooking and then to prepare meals that require such careful preparation and precision in the jam packed schedule that you have?
So here's something that will make you feel a lot better. ITS NOT ALL THAT DIFFICULT!
Daunting as it may seem, gourmet cooking is essentially making use of the best possible ingredients, creating a dish that pleases your senses (even if it is as simple as mashed potatoes) and presenting it with flair. There is a history behind every dish waiting to be explored. Every corner of this world, every culture, every country has something new to contribute to your food adventure. And knowing and exploring this uniqueness of each cuisine, understanding the key ingredients of every dish and just experimenting and trying new recipes is what makes you a gourmet cook. It doesn't have to be about complicated techniques, expensive ingredients and pretentious plating. Regional specialties cooked slowly with care and attention are gourmet cooking. When most food is fast food, slow food is gourmet food.
You can join a course to learn the basic skills, or refer cook-books that will offer a wide variety of content on techniques, skills and recipes, but in the end just like any other art form, gourmet cooking is instinctive. You just need to widen your horizon in term of your food experience and begin your culinary adventure that will last a lifetime. In the end cooking is about the heart. It's about love and pleasing people. It's about your passion for food. And eventually its all about YOU.
For more of Mishi's recipe picks, cooking tips and food thoughts visit her blog at http://cooking-gourmet.com/
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Gourmet-Cooking---Is-It-Really-As-Difficult-As-It-Seems?&id=6738442] Gourmet Cooking - Is It Really As Difficult As It Seems?

Friday, January 13, 2012

Hot Dog Toaster - A Helpful Kitchen Tool You Must Not Miss

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Justin_Jesse]Justin Jesse
It is too cold to go out at night during winter. What type of hot food can you enjoy at home when you are hungry? With the technology advancement nowadays, you will be able to enjoy great food at your home sweet home within minutes!
Ladies and gentlemen,
I would like to introduce to you the most helpful kitchen tool for the year - Hot Dog Toaster. This special electronic appliance enables you to cook both sausages and buns at the same time within minutes. What you need to do is to drop them in this special toaster and press the lever down. Both sausages and buns will then pop up within the time frame you set.
Why is it necessary to get this toaster?
First thing first, by having this tool at your kitchen, you don't need to switch on your microwave or stove to grill the hot dogs. Secondly, it is a healthier way to prepare this food as no oil is involved. Thirdly, this particular toaster is safe to be used by everyone, including young children. You don't need to worry that your fingers will get burnt. Furthermore, your sausages and buns will always be in good condition. You will never get dark sausages and toasts! Most of the toasters available in the market come with adjustable timers and you can always decide the setting based on your personal requirements. You set your own desired "doneness".
Some products sold in the market are cheap. You can get one unit of toaster at the price of $20 easily. There are 2 models I would like to recommend, i.e. Nostalgia HDT-600 Pop-Up Toaster and Miles Kimball Hot Dog Toaster. These 2 brands are reliable and many users give good comments after using them. If you have more budgets, you can consider one high-end model, namely Hot Diggity Dogger. This model is more expensive due to its special feature. It is not necessary for you to unfreeze the sausages. This particular toaster can cook the frozen sausages directly.
You can obtain the above mentioned products from any local electrical shop easily. You can even find them from Walmart and Target. If you prefer online shopping, you can visit online stores like Buy.com, BestBuy.com, FingerHut.com and Amazon.com to place your order. For your information, most of the online stores offer a wide variety of toasters at the prices lower than retail prices.
Last but not the least; this great kitchen helper can also contribute to birthday parties, gathering and picnics. If you are a hot dog fan, don't wait any longer. Please take your quick action now.
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Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Hot-Dog-Toaster---A-Helpful-Kitchen-Tool-You-Must-Not-Miss&id=6753441] Hot Dog Toaster - A Helpful Kitchen Tool You Must Not Miss

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Stick With Cast Iron Pots And Pans

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Kristine_Harold]Kristine Harold
Cooking is a fun activity and if you like to cook with convenience, make use of friendly cast iron pots and pans. There might be questions you need to ask concerning this cookware and if you like to know the real answer for those, research and read on. There are many cookware from which you can choose from but when it comes to affordability, performance and look, nothing can beat the cast iron cookware. With its eco-friendly features and benefits, what more can you ask for? Below are few lovely benefits of such cooking tool and if you like to consider their validity, do the first hand test.
Long-Lasting: Cast iron pots and pans can really last longer particularly when you know how to use them right. Cooking pots and pans are pretty essential in the kitchen and they can never be taken out of the list if you want to eliminate a few unnecessary items for you to save. Don't you know that old and worn parts can still be refurbished using elbow grease? Thus, have cast iron pots and pans and enjoy their being friendly and useful at all times. Provide as well the right storage corner when keeping them.
Non-Stick Quality: These are perfect for various recipes people love to prepare. They are naturally non-sticky so you don't have to worry when cleaning both pots and pans after your cooking session. Spend less time in washing and cleaning the cookware with the wonders of the non-sticky element. Aside from the fact that its non-stick, it also eliminates the presence of harmful chemicals. This means that you can really serve your family nothing but good and safe food. Food that is free from harm and side effects.
Affordability: Not everyone can afford expensive cookware so if you wish to have those that can last longer, easy to clean and very eco-friendly, stick to cast iron pots and pans. These are affordable and will not consume a hug amount of cash. Be sure though that you are buying from a trusted store so you can never be cheated when it comes to quality. Save more by getting such cookware during a sale or product promos.
There are many reasons why you have to stick with cast iron pots and pans. Aside from the three mentioned earlier, there are still more for you to find out. Just feed your mind with important concerns and make sure that you are knowledgeable of the proper maintenance.
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Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Stick-With-Cast-Iron-Pots-And-Pans&id=6560835] Stick With Cast Iron Pots And Pans

Monday, January 9, 2012

Gas or Electric - Which Range Is Right for My Home?

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Kristen_L_McIntyre]Kristen L McIntyre
Whether to have a gas or electric range is something that is widely debated worldwide and the answer really depends on your personal situation. What we can do here though is to highlight what the advantages and disadvantages of each are and let you decide what is right for your situation.
When speaking to people about whether they use electric or gas, the results will generally be evenly split. When asking them why they use the choice they do, the results are far less even.
When using gas cookers, the hobs for putting pans on heat up and cool down quicker. This is because it is a direct flame heating the pan. This gives you greater control over the temperature that your food cooks at; for example, if it is cooking too fast and at risk of over boiling or burning you can correct this quickly. On the other hand, electric hobs take longer to cool down as it is electrical heat being applied to a plate which holds heat for longer. It is therefore arguable that electric hobs will cost you less in bills, as once the heat has been applied, it can be turned down without losing the ability to cook as fast. It is also however known that the price of gas is cheaper than electricity.
Electric hobs are easier to clean as they are usually flat surfaces compared to the tiered grids used by gas appliances.
In terms of the oven element, there is less difference between gas and electric in terms of heating application. There are accounts of people who believe that one betters the other. For example, a lot of users whose ovens heat by electricity claim that roasted meats and poultry cook more evenly than in a gas oven. This is because they have fans more often than gas ovens, which helps circulate heat.
You may wish to consider the costs of the way you fuel your cooking as well. Gas is what is known as a primary source of power, i.e. the fuel is burned to produce heat directly. Electricity, however, is a secondary source of power which means that coal, wood or natural gas has to be burned to be converted to electricity. So in terms of cost and effect on the environment, gas has an advantage.
Another consideration is the installation of the range. Gas is more dangerous and therefore requires an expert experienced fitter to install it. If this is not done right, then you are at great risk of serious injury or death. Electric ranges can be personally installed quickly as there is far less risk of any health issues if it is not installed correctly. The worst that could happen is that the appliance breaks, which is far better than injury.
Overall, you have to decide what is best for your current situation in terms of cooking, cost, safety and cleaning.
Kristen L McIntyre is the owner and operator of http://OrganizationAccessories.com which she created to assist people with improving the functionality of their existing kitchen cabinets as an option of complete cabinet replacement.
To see more [http://OrganizationAccessories.com/home]articles written by Kristen visit her web site.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Gas-or-Electric---Which-Range-Is-Right-for-My-Home?&id=6756198] Gas or Electric - Which Range Is Right for My Home?

Saturday, January 7, 2012

Cooking Grilled Cheese on an Electric Griddle

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Rory_A.]Rory A.
Few things can cure an upset stomach or the rainy day blues quite like the combination of grilled cheese and a big bowl of tomato soup. Though it is a relatively simple dish to prepare, it remains a standard American comfort food throughout the years. While many know how to make a grilled cheese sandwich, few know how to make it well. Instead, they accept their mediocre piles of bread, filled with cold cheese. America, it does not have to be this way.
"Hold on just a second," you might be thinking, "are you trying to tell me that there's a better way to make grilled cheese?" You bet there is, and it's surprisingly easier than you could ever imagine.
The secret to the perfect grilled cheese is by cooking it on an electric griddle. Electric griddles are available at almost any department store - such as Sears, Target, K-Mart or Walmart - for a very reasonable price on average (usually well below the $70 range). Electric griddles are easy to cook with and even easier to assemble: simply plug it into the wall and you are ready to start cooking!
Most electric griddles feature a top of the line non-stick cooking surface, but to create the truly magical grilled cheese sandwich, the chef should use butter or margarine (depending on personal preference or dietary restrictions) to cook the bread. The butter or margarine should be applied to one side of both pieces of bread.
Speaking of bread, which is the best kind to use? Experts suggest using wheat bread. Not only is it healthier than your average loaf of white bread, but it is also tougher and holds up better when being cooked on the electric griddle. By using wheat bread you will cut down on the amount of damage the sandwich must endure.
Now that you've got your pieces of buttered bread, place one down on the non-stick surface of your electric griddle. Place three pieces of cheese on top of the unbuttered side of the bread. At this point you can also elect to place an additional ingredient on your sandwich. Crowd favorites include bacon, ham or tomato. Place a topping on, followed by your second piece of bread with the buttered side facing out towards you. Now your perfect grilled cheese has been assembled and just requires some patience and love to be completed.
Wait two to three minutes to flip the sandwich, checking on the underside until it turns golden brown. Flip to sandwich and wait another two to three minutes. Once both sides are golden brown and the melted cheese begins to spill out onto the bread's crust you are ready to remove the sandwich from the electric griddle. Place onto a plate and allow a minute or two to cool. Turn your electric griddle off, unplug its cord from the wall and clean the non-stick surface with a sponge.
To maximize the enjoyment level, the grilled cheese should be served with a bowl of tomato soup and a tall glass of ginger ale (alcohol optional!). Take a seat, take a bite, and enjoy the fruits of your labor: the greatest grilled cheese sandwich in the world.
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Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Cooking-Grilled-Cheese-on-an-Electric-Griddle&id=6752552] Cooking Grilled Cheese on an Electric Griddle

Thursday, January 5, 2012

The Versatile Griddle Grill

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Narongsak_Saeung_Lora]Narongsak Saeung Lora
If you are looking for a fun and healthy way to prepare many varieties of food, then the griddle grill is the perfect option for you. Foods as delicious from pancakes to burgers can be prepared on this trendy kitchen appliance.
You can maximize your griddle/grill efficiency when you purchase one of these handy items. The reversible griddle grill allows you to cook on either side of the surface for the utmost in kitchen convenience.
The grill surface has grooves to channel the grease so that you have the easiest clean-up imaginable. On the grill you can prepare such things as terrific steaks and fish filets, and on the smooth griddle surface you can cook family favorites like fried or scrambled eggs, pancakes, French toast and hash browns very conveniently and quite sufficiently.
When you decide to purchase this amazing kitchen tool, you will have the convenience of a commercial grill and griddle, but it only takes up the expanse of two burners. This allows for easy preparation and simple clean up afterwards.
The grill and griddle combos also have handles for easy lifting from hot surfaces and are perfect for a wide range of cook tops, including induction. Some griddle grills also are offered with cooking plates that are compatible. This feature doubles your cooking area while the grill lid is open.
Many of these handy appliances are made of aluminum which is super easy to keep clean, and they also feature a non-stick surface ensuring that your foods will not stick to the Teflon. The non-stick surface also helps your food release easily from either the grill or the griddle. Most of these units that are offered online are dishwasher safe as well.
If you really want to bring the delicious taste and aroma of outdoor cooking into your home, you can always opt for the electric griddle grill. In a snap, you can bring the sizzling flavor of an outdoor barbecue right into your kitchen. Imagine grilling plump juicy hot dogs and tasty sirloin steaks right from your counter top. With an indoor electric grill, you can have your favorite foods with ease and simplicity. These grills have non-stick grates and clear covers so you can easily monitor the cooking of your food.
Take a look online today at the many griddle grills available for sale. Whether you want one that conveniently sits atop your stove's burners or the electric variety, there are plenty to choose from when you shop for them online. Why spend a thousand dollars on a fancy built in range, when you can have a griddle grill for a fraction of the cost.
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Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Versatile-Griddle-Grill&id=6756627] The Versatile Griddle Grill

Tuesday, January 3, 2012

Why Canned Food Is Great

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Brett_Van_Zyl]Brett Van Zyl
While I can admit that if I was asked to think of a tasty meal, canned food would not be at the top of my list. Fully prepared canned meals and soups have been saving those who can't cook (me) for years.
Canned foods have a number of advantages that simply cannot be ignored. In many cases the dishes that we all love to eat, contain canned food ingredients. Tinned food can be used in recipes for soups, curries, pastas and deserts.
These products allow those who don't have the time to cook (most of us) to make great tasting dishes in half the time. Imagine having to peel and boil tomatoes yourself for a curry or stew, instead of just opening up a can of pre-cooked tomatoes. This is what you would have to go through to cook your favorite meals, if convenience food like this didn't exist.
The fruit and vegetables in canned goods are freshly picked. They are then cooked at high temperatures. The cooking process sterilizes the contents of the cans, keeping nutrients in and impurities out.
In some cases the vitamin levels in canned food can actually be higher than fresh produce. Pineapples and peaches for example have higher levels of iron than their fresh forms.
Canned fruit and vegetables contain high levels of vitamins. For example, the levels of vitamin A in canned pumpkin are actually higher than its fresh counterpart. Canned vegetables provide a good complementary intake of thiamine, riboflavin, and vitamin B6. Canned apricots, carrots and spinach have high levels of carotene. Carotenes are a type of antioxidant that provides the body's cells with added protection. The juice in canned fruit is packed with nutrients and can be used in smoothies or as an ingredient in sauces and marinades.
Empty cans are easy to recycle. In addition to taking them down to the depot and recycling them in the traditional sense, you could throw some creativity into the mix. Re-use them as holders for your stationery or use them as starter pots for seeds and the makings of your own vegetable garden. Tinned goods have a long shelf life. In most cases the shelf life of canned food is up to two years, and it will retain its nutritional value for this period.
So if the end of the world ever arrives, stock up on canned food. It never goes off.
Oh and did I mention that canned food is great?
The Author recommends eating [http://www.rhodesquality.com/]canned food because it has great nutritional value and it's fat free.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Why-Canned-Food-Is-Great&id=6756650] Why Canned Food Is Great

Sunday, January 1, 2012

Tips for Enjoying a Rangemaster Cooker

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Brooke_Mason]Brooke Mason
Cooking can represent an undesirable chore for some consumers. First, a menu must be designed, and then food must be purchased. Last, a meal must be prepared. They want to enjoy their meals without the fuss. Unless people plan to eat out daily, they should learn how to enjoy their kitchens, including having a good cooker. A Rangemaster cooker can be found in numerous homes. These offer cooks diverse benefits to make life easier. Benefits include good quality, a range of colour options and cooker accessories. Consumers can learn how to enjoy their Rangemaster cooker and reduce potential stress.
Once a purchasing decision is made, consumers must think about its installation. Proper measurement ensures the Rangemaster cooker can fit through the kitchen doorway or back door. Enough space minimises the chance of damage, including unwanted scratches. Any potential user should study the type of fuel needed for the cooker. Different fuels create differing cost. Consumers should understand any electrical considerations. For instance, a cooker that uses all electric fuel may notice more energy usage. It is one reason why consumers need to know what type of fuel will power their purchase. A knowledgeable salesperson may offer guidance.
Before turning on a unit, consumers should read their user guides. These unit are not like the typical stove. A user guide can help with different terminology, give instructions for proper use and advise who to call if a problem occurs. Storing the user guide in an accessible location helps in an emergency. Ideal locations include a kitchen or pantry drawer. Although   rel=nofollow [http://www.cookersandovens.co.uk/Rangemaster_Cookers/]Rangemaster cookers have storage space, it is advised not to store papers inside it. Consumers can store their seasonings, spices and cooking utensils. The user guide offers easy-to-understand instructions for its consumers.
These units come with different parts which must be cleaned and cared for to prevent damage. For instance, the cooker includes a griddle plate. This flat surface gives the option for heating pancakes, sausages or fried eggs. Unfortunately, cooking grease can pile up without proper cleaning. Use hot water with a mild cleaning soap. The hood uses a special design to reduce kitchen cooking odours. While the hood should be cleaned with mild, soapy water, metal grease filters need monthly cleaning to minimise built-up grease. The filters should be dried before replacing. The Rangemaster user guide offers additional tips.
Consumers can maximise their cooking options and give more ways to enjoy their meals. The cooker allows you to fry, simmer, broil, grill, bake or stir-fry food. These options can lead to healthier cooking or save time during the week. It also provides healthier cooking options with its griddle. Besides cooking pancakes, users can prepare their favourite fish with low-fat oils and stir-fry chopped vegetables without butter. Since the Rangemaster cooker provides two ovens, busy consumers and their families can cook more meals. For example, roast a turkey for Tuesday evening and cook a chicken for freezing.
Journalist Brooke Mason writes exclusivly for the Kitchen Appliances sector specailising in high quality cookers and [http://www.cookersandovens.co.uk/Rangemaster/]Rangemaster ovens.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Tips-for-Enjoying-a-Rangemaster-Cooker&id=6760279] Tips for Enjoying a Rangemaster Cooker