We all want to perform like a pro in the kitchen, but with as little time and effort as possible. Over the next several weeks I will be unveiling 2014’s Top 10 Kitchen Hacks that will be sure to make food preparation and consuming a little more deliciously quick, easy and fun! Not to mention, most…
Tag: fun facts
“TV Chefs Then and Now” a Short Overview (Who Knew??) by Ken Bayliss Co-Author of the “Once Upon a Spice” Cookbook
Watching TV chefs can be like being in awe of a clever neighbor with whom we have become attached. We almost long for their views, ideas and even find their mannerisms appealing. They give us secrets, advice and chastize us when we cook slightly wrong. Then, without realizing it, they change our eating habits for…
I Want One! #10 of 2014’s Top Rated Kitchen Gadgets “Silpat Non-Stick Baking Mats”
The one shown is an all purpose size that fits most half size baking sheets–11 5/8 x 16 1/2-inches, but Silpats come in various sizes to fit most baking pans. These sheets are washable, reusable and invaluable for all non-stick baking needs. No more greasing pans before dropping cookie dough. No more concerns about bread…
Watermelon & Basil? Juniper Berries on Fish? Herbs & Spices: What Goes with What? Combinations to Make Your Feasts Flourish
Meat or fish? Check! Veggies? Check! Eggs? Check! Fruit & Rice? Check!! We buy meats and fish that are the freshest of fresh, fruits and vegetables so ripe they are almost falling off of the vine. We have all of the proper ingredients and components for a great meal, but something is just missing. Yes, wise…
I Want One! #9 of 2014’s Top Rated Kitchen Gadgets “Benriner Japanese Mandoline Slicer”
This is another personal favorite that makes perfectly even, thick to paper-thin veggie slices in seconds but please use the guard! Enough said. I use my mandoline to slice veggie noodles in place of wheat, slices (shown) instead of chunks for shish kabob, to make paper thin garlic for pasta, soup and stews, sweet and…
I Want One! #8 of 2014’s Top Rated Kitchen Gadgets “KRUPS F20342 Electric Spice and Coffee Grinder with Stainless Steel Blades”
Would you like all of your meticulously-prepared, homemade dishes to taste their very best? Ever wonder how restaurants make their dishes pack a punch? First, ask yourself “how old are the spices in my pantry?” If your answer is “more than 6 months” then they are far beyond the flavor expiration date, my friend!…
I Want One! 2014’s Top Rated Kitchen Gadgets #7 A Personal Favorite! “Good Grips Bladed Meat Tenderizer” by OXO
Who doesn’t want to continuously enjoy the juiciest cuts of meat, yet not pay exceedingly exorbitant prices? In the past I’ve tolerated many a rubbery, tough and dry cut and years ago went on a quest for something to enhance my meat-eating experiences. I’ve been using this simple and very effective tool for years and…
I Want One! 2014’s Top-Rated Kitchen Gadgets #6 VinLuxe PRO Wine Aerator
This ingenious gadget for wine connoisseurs and aficionados alike, somewhat reads like a biblical claim “turning inexpensive wines into the expensive.” Well, they actually claim their aerator makes it ‘taste’ expensive. There is a difference. Plus, the company donates a portion of their proceeds to solving childhood hunger; a very noble cause. Read what the…
I Want One! 2014’s Top Rated Kitchen Gadgets #5 UberChef’s Dual Julienne & Vegetable Peeler. Top Notch!
So, I got tired of gouging my fingers along with my veggies while peeling and commenced the search for a premium more ergonomic friendly gadget. I happened upon this ingenious device that seems to be holding up much longer than the norm as well. PLUS, it juliennes like a charm—such pretty, impressive garnishes this doodad…
I Want One! 2014’s Best Kitchen Gadgets #4 Kona BBQ Grill Mats!
One of my favorites is to BBQ pizza and shish kabob on the grill. Yet, providing smoky outdoor grilled flavors to our summertime favorites can present a challenge. How many times have you lost veggies down the grates? Would you like to grill more vegetables and pizzas, but fear you’ll lose half to the molten…
Once Upon a Spice 