Dear Home Ec 101, I’ve noticed that when I use non-stick spray (like Pam) on things that are subsequently baked, I end up with a sticky, brown residue that is really hard to remove from my pans. This is a particular problem with my muffin tin! Two questions: 1) Should I stop using non-stick spray on things that … Read more
Heather says: Last night all four of my burners were full. There was gumbo and etouffee, collard greens and oil to fry beignets, but I forgot the plain rice. My stepfather commented something along the lines of just microwave it. I must have given him a funny look in between turning beignets. I figured what … Read more
Dear Home Ec 101, Why is it sometimes when I heat foods in the microwave the bowl is screaming hot and the food is still a block of ice? Signed, Scalded in Scranton* Heather says: Here on Home Ec 101 I’ve written previously about how microwaves work, if you missed it the first time, here’s … Read more
Dear Home Ec 101, I really need help. I found an awesome chocolate cake recipe and can keep the cake from sticking to the pan with the parchment paper/oiled/flour method. However, once the cake is on the wire rack, that’s another story. It sinks into the wires and sticks to the rack. When I try to remove it, it rips and … Read more
Dear Home-Ec 101, I’m completely lost when it comes to freezing food. I know this is a great way to have meals on hand, but once it’s in the freezer I don’t know what to do with it. Just last night I made too much enchilada filling. So I made an extra pan, covered it in foil … Read more
Brian says: I’m talking to all the guys in the room for this one. I know there have been -and still are- times when you decide to go all out and make yourself something relatively good to eat. You break out the dusty knife set your parents bought for your new apartment and tie on … Read more
Heather says: Fearless Fridays are all about pushing boundaries in the kitchen. It’s trying new techniques, recipes, or ingredients. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t. All of you are welcome to share your recent kitchen adventures either in the link list or by sharing in the comments. A lot of people forget that cooking is … Read more
Dear Home Ec 101: Help! How do I get the fish stink out of my kitchen? I’m trying to encourage an elderly dog to eat and someone recommended canned mackerel. Signed, Mindy Mackerel Heather says: Since your fish wasn’t cooked, only served. I bet a few drops of the foul smelling liquid are lurking. Wipe … Read more
Dear Home Ec 101, Last night, I left an aluminum pot on a burner I thought I had turned off. I served dinner and by the time I came back to it, all I found was a pan full of burnt food. Is my aluminum pot ruined? How do I remove the mess? Signed, Tempted to … Read more
Dear Home Ec 101, I have heard dull knives are more dangerous than sharp knives. I can’t wrap my brain around this idea. Doesn’t a sharp knife do more damage? Signed, Perpetua the Perplexed Heather says: With knives it’s all about control. Think about cutting a firm, slippery object such as an apple. When the … Read more