Comfort Stew: Beef Daube Provencal
A classic, no-fail stew. Make it in the slow cooker or on the stovetop, and learn several tricks for a more tender and tasty stew. Cooking School notes included as well as modifications.
Building Block Techniques
How to Make Great Mashed Potatoes
In years past, I never gave potato mashing the attention it deserved. I just threw in a little butter and milk, mashed roughly with a hand masher and took them to the table. This year, I put a little time into experimenting and investigating and found some tricks that easily elevated the mashed potato into … Read more
Stress-Reducing Secret No. 4: Go Casual—with Diamonds
Women know all about this strategy. You don’t feel like getting all dressed up for a party so you throw on a tried and true comfort outfit and add some razzle and dazzle with a great necklace, scarf, belt or shoes—or one of each. Good news: You can do the same thing with a recipe. Here are three basic techniques:
Crockpots and Slow Cookers—Invest and Reap the Benefits
No doubt about it: a specialized appliance can make cooking a lot easier, save a lot of time and produce really delicious meals—but only if you first invest a little time getting ready to use it.
How to Cook Dried Beans–Stovetop, Slow Cooker, Pressure Cooker
There are several ways to cook dried beans: Stovetop Surprisingly, small pebbles can sometimes be found in dried beans, so start by spreading them on a plate and check for intruders, as well as any shriveled or darkened beans. Place 1 cup sorted beans in a saucepan and fill with enough water to cover beans … Read more
How to Cook Brown Rice
If you don’t feel comfortable cooking rice without a box (or even if you’re experienced), check out these tips and hints.
“Radishal” Solutions
The Skinny: Radishes are a great springtime vegetable, but they can be harsh-tasting. If you don’t have a taste for that taste, here’s an option: Try them cooked, as in this recipe for Asian Radish and Carrot Salad