How to Cook Lobster Tails -- From Steaming to Grilling and More By Anne Clarke
Cooking lobster tails is not necessarily difficult, but after the money you have spent on your lobster, you certainly want to make sure that you do it correctly! This article is here to serve as a guide for cooking lobster tails and how much time you should cook them for, depending on their weight.
If you are steaming your lobster tails:
· Steam them for about 7 to 8 minutes
· Cook 14 minutes for one pound lobster, adding 2 minutes per ¼ pound beyond that.
If you are cooking lobster tails by way of the grill:
· First boil the tails for 4 minutes on medium-high heat for 7 minutes if you have 6 ounce tails, 8 minutes for 8 ounce tails.
· Grill until the meat is opaque and firm to the touch.
If you are cooking lobster tails in the oven (baking them):
· Bake for 8-10 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you are boiling your lobster tails:
· A general rule of thumb is to cook 5 minutes for the first pound, adding one minute for each additional pound.
· Cooking lobster tails that are 1-3 ounces will take about 3-5 minutes.
· Cook 5-ounce tails for 7 minutes, 6-ounce tails for 7.5 minutes, and 8 ounce tails for 8 minutes.
If you are cooking lobster tails in the broiler:
· Cook a 1-3 ounce lobster tail for 3-4 minutes.
· A 4-6 ounce lobster tail should take about 5-6 minutes.
· A good 10-12 ounce lobster tail should be cooked for 10-12 minutes.
· Cook a 14-16 ounce lobster tail for 12-15 minutes.
Before cooking lobster tails, be sure to thaw them (most lobster tails come frozen). Also, be aware that these are just general guides for cooking lobster tails – cooking times may vary, depending on your altitude, your lobster, and other such variables.
Us this only as a guide to cooking lobster tails, not as a “must-do.” When your lobster tails are opaque (not translucent) and firm to the touch, they are likely done. You could also consider using a cooking thermometer to verify.
Good luck cooking lobster tails! May they be delicious and not rubbery! Of course, be aware, that frozen lobster tails are likely to be a bit more rubbery than fresh lobster – but they can still be mighty good!
Anne Clarke writes numerous articles for websites on gardening, parenting, fashion, and cooking. Her background includes teaching and gardening. For more of her articles on cooking lobster tails, please visit Atlantic Lobster Tails.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anne_Clarke
Saturday, December 27, 2008
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Get Smarter With Brain Foods
Get Smarter With Brain Foods by A.J James
Get Smarter With Brain Foods And Maximize Your Potential.
Everyone would like to have that little edge in life, the type the separates you from your fellow friends and family members (especially if you're competitive). So you study French, you take some IQ tests and you learn some memory techniques and the results are impressive.
But you want absolutely any advantage you can get..... enter brain foods.
What Are Brain Foods?
Well, just like some foods are going to leave you sluggish and dim witted, some foods can increase your synaptic sharpness and promote increased cerebral activity.
Brain foods by themselves won't do the trick, but when used in combination some effort the results may be synergistic.
Good brain foods provide you with an even energy keel and promote healthy body function and best of all healthy brain function.
How Often Should You Consume Brain Foods?
For ultimate efficacy brain foods need to be a regular part of your diet, you have to look after yourself to get the overall benefits.
Daily consumption of good quality food isn't just important for your health - It is important for your general well being and vitality.
What Are The Best Brain Foods?
So, you want a list of the best brain foods, well here are the top 5
Cacao
Super rich in brain-protecting antioxidants, this uber super food is an excellent addition to any diet. Cacao nibs can be used in breakfast cereals and cookies or anything baked.
Blueberries
Anthocyanins are the component of this ultra-healthy berry wonder. This particular antioxidant can help stave off free radical damge to the brain. Excellent in taste, color, texture and availability, blueberries are a must have brain food.
Green Tea
Powerful, invigorating and available. Green tea satisfies even he most stringent brain food criteria by providing a veritable plethora of nutritional benefits including of course antioxidation.
Powdered green tea is the most convenient source and the best quality type of green tea you can purchase.
Salmon
With protein, calcium and vitamins A,D and B group, salmon ticks a lot of boxes. The most important one however is the Omega 3 fatty acid component of salmon. Omega 3 fatty acids can help the body repair, recover and gives the brain the essential fats it needs for elite function. Salmon is a must 1-2 times per week.
Water
Boring old water huh? Well, I'm afraid to say yes, but I will any way. Water is the essence of life and if you don't supply your body with high quality water then you're missing out on the benefits of proper hydration. Inadequate hydration will leave you performing well below your peak, so the need to drink plenty of water with metronomical frequency is fairly obvious but yet so often over looked.
Drink 8-10 glasses of water per day to ensure a well hydrated body.
Brain foods won't do all the work for you but they will assist you in mental performance and cerebral superiority.
More Brain Foods and IQ tips can be found at The Solution Website
For exceptional solutions to intellectual progression go to IQ Solutions
About the Author
A.J James is a contributing writer for http://www.thesolutionwebsite.com The Solution Website for even more free tips and information, visit The Solution Website and change your whole life.
Get Smarter With Brain Foods And Maximize Your Potential.
Everyone would like to have that little edge in life, the type the separates you from your fellow friends and family members (especially if you're competitive). So you study French, you take some IQ tests and you learn some memory techniques and the results are impressive.
But you want absolutely any advantage you can get..... enter brain foods.
What Are Brain Foods?
Well, just like some foods are going to leave you sluggish and dim witted, some foods can increase your synaptic sharpness and promote increased cerebral activity.
Brain foods by themselves won't do the trick, but when used in combination some effort the results may be synergistic.
Good brain foods provide you with an even energy keel and promote healthy body function and best of all healthy brain function.
How Often Should You Consume Brain Foods?
For ultimate efficacy brain foods need to be a regular part of your diet, you have to look after yourself to get the overall benefits.
Daily consumption of good quality food isn't just important for your health - It is important for your general well being and vitality.
What Are The Best Brain Foods?
So, you want a list of the best brain foods, well here are the top 5
Cacao
Super rich in brain-protecting antioxidants, this uber super food is an excellent addition to any diet. Cacao nibs can be used in breakfast cereals and cookies or anything baked.
Blueberries
Anthocyanins are the component of this ultra-healthy berry wonder. This particular antioxidant can help stave off free radical damge to the brain. Excellent in taste, color, texture and availability, blueberries are a must have brain food.
Green Tea
Powerful, invigorating and available. Green tea satisfies even he most stringent brain food criteria by providing a veritable plethora of nutritional benefits including of course antioxidation.
Powdered green tea is the most convenient source and the best quality type of green tea you can purchase.
Salmon
With protein, calcium and vitamins A,D and B group, salmon ticks a lot of boxes. The most important one however is the Omega 3 fatty acid component of salmon. Omega 3 fatty acids can help the body repair, recover and gives the brain the essential fats it needs for elite function. Salmon is a must 1-2 times per week.
Water
Boring old water huh? Well, I'm afraid to say yes, but I will any way. Water is the essence of life and if you don't supply your body with high quality water then you're missing out on the benefits of proper hydration. Inadequate hydration will leave you performing well below your peak, so the need to drink plenty of water with metronomical frequency is fairly obvious but yet so often over looked.
Drink 8-10 glasses of water per day to ensure a well hydrated body.
Brain foods won't do all the work for you but they will assist you in mental performance and cerebral superiority.
More Brain Foods and IQ tips can be found at The Solution Website
For exceptional solutions to intellectual progression go to IQ Solutions
About the Author
A.J James is a contributing writer for http://www.thesolutionwebsite.com The Solution Website for even more free tips and information, visit The Solution Website and change your whole life.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Tips of Cooking Meat In The Microwave
Tips of Cooking Meat In The Microwave by seemameet
Summer is here and if you are anything like me, you don't want to turn on your oven or stove unless absolutely necessary. I do most of my cooking in the microwave during the summer months. It helps keep my home cooler and cuts down on my cooling bill.
I have found that many people don't like to cook meat in the microwave. I was once one of those people. Chicken would come out like rubber and I always worried that ground beef didn't cook thoroughly. I have since found that the trick is to use the right cooking utensils.
There has also been some hype about how it's not safe to use plastic to cook meat or anything else in the microwave. This is only half true. Certain types of plastic have chemicals that are activated with the extreme heat of the microwave and these chemicals can get into your food. For more details visit to www.cheese-cake-recipes.com Hence, the key to cooking in your microwave is, once again, to use the correct cooking utensils. Basically, use containers that are specifically designed for cooking in the microwave.
My preference in microwave cooking is Tupperware. Their cookware is specifically designed for the microwave so you don't have to worry about the chemicals. Their Oval Cooker is designed to retain the moisture of your meat so that your meat doesn't come out dry and rubbery. It also has a colander so you can brown your meat and let the grease drip to the bottom. That makes it easy to dispose of the grease drippings or use them for gravy. Tupperware also backs it cooker with a lifetime warranty so if it breaks I can just replace it with a new one, which seems like a good investment to me.
So the instructions I am providing below apply to the Tupperware Oval Cooker. If you feel confident using a different type of microwave cooker, of course, try that, but please make sure you follow the guidelines I stated above.
Cooking Ground Beef Place the ground beef with your favorite seasoning in the colander of the cooker. Cover and cook for 6 minutes per pound. Let sit a few minutes then remove from the microwave. By using the colander all the grease will drain to the bottom of the cooker.
Cooking a Whole Chicken If using the Oval Cooker you will need to use the extender piece for your average size chicken. Then place the chicken in the cooker. Pour about half a cup of water on the bottom of the cooker. For more details www.atkins-diets-recipes.com Sprinkle your chicken with your favorites seasonings. Place the cover on the cooker and cook for 6 minutes per pound. I think you will be surprised at how moist your chicken comes out.
Cooking Cut Up Chicken After cutting up your chicken use the same instructions for cooking a whole chicken. Determine by how high the chicken stacks if you will need to use the extender or not.
Cooking Chicken Pieces You can use the colander to cook chicken pieces. Cut the chicken into bit size pieces. I usually use chicken breast cutlets for this. Place the cutup chicken pieces in the colander. Season with your favorite seasonings. Place the cover on the cooker and microwave for 6 minutes per pound.
Cooking Pork I have not yet tried cooking pork in the microwave. Pork is tricky and my family doesn't eat pork so that is one reason I have never tried cooking it in the microwave. However, there are plenty of beef and chicken recipes out there, so I hope the above suggestions will help you keep your kitchen cooler during the hot summer months.
About the Author
www.camping-outdoors-recipes.com
www.thanks-giving-recipes.com
Summer is here and if you are anything like me, you don't want to turn on your oven or stove unless absolutely necessary. I do most of my cooking in the microwave during the summer months. It helps keep my home cooler and cuts down on my cooling bill.
I have found that many people don't like to cook meat in the microwave. I was once one of those people. Chicken would come out like rubber and I always worried that ground beef didn't cook thoroughly. I have since found that the trick is to use the right cooking utensils.
There has also been some hype about how it's not safe to use plastic to cook meat or anything else in the microwave. This is only half true. Certain types of plastic have chemicals that are activated with the extreme heat of the microwave and these chemicals can get into your food. For more details visit to www.cheese-cake-recipes.com Hence, the key to cooking in your microwave is, once again, to use the correct cooking utensils. Basically, use containers that are specifically designed for cooking in the microwave.
My preference in microwave cooking is Tupperware. Their cookware is specifically designed for the microwave so you don't have to worry about the chemicals. Their Oval Cooker is designed to retain the moisture of your meat so that your meat doesn't come out dry and rubbery. It also has a colander so you can brown your meat and let the grease drip to the bottom. That makes it easy to dispose of the grease drippings or use them for gravy. Tupperware also backs it cooker with a lifetime warranty so if it breaks I can just replace it with a new one, which seems like a good investment to me.
So the instructions I am providing below apply to the Tupperware Oval Cooker. If you feel confident using a different type of microwave cooker, of course, try that, but please make sure you follow the guidelines I stated above.
Cooking Ground Beef Place the ground beef with your favorite seasoning in the colander of the cooker. Cover and cook for 6 minutes per pound. Let sit a few minutes then remove from the microwave. By using the colander all the grease will drain to the bottom of the cooker.
Cooking a Whole Chicken If using the Oval Cooker you will need to use the extender piece for your average size chicken. Then place the chicken in the cooker. Pour about half a cup of water on the bottom of the cooker. For more details www.atkins-diets-recipes.com Sprinkle your chicken with your favorites seasonings. Place the cover on the cooker and cook for 6 minutes per pound. I think you will be surprised at how moist your chicken comes out.
Cooking Cut Up Chicken After cutting up your chicken use the same instructions for cooking a whole chicken. Determine by how high the chicken stacks if you will need to use the extender or not.
Cooking Chicken Pieces You can use the colander to cook chicken pieces. Cut the chicken into bit size pieces. I usually use chicken breast cutlets for this. Place the cutup chicken pieces in the colander. Season with your favorite seasonings. Place the cover on the cooker and microwave for 6 minutes per pound.
Cooking Pork I have not yet tried cooking pork in the microwave. Pork is tricky and my family doesn't eat pork so that is one reason I have never tried cooking it in the microwave. However, there are plenty of beef and chicken recipes out there, so I hope the above suggestions will help you keep your kitchen cooler during the hot summer months.
About the Author
www.camping-outdoors-recipes.com
www.thanks-giving-recipes.com
7 Tips for Preparing Middle Eastern Breads
7 Tips for Preparing Middle Eastern Breads by Azriel Lider
Making homemade bread is one of the most exciting cooking experiences there is.
If you love cooking, you can upgrade your home cooking by learning how to prepare top quality Middle Eastern breads. Although you can buy commercial Middle Eastern breads, the quality and taste will never come close to your own homemade bread. Imagine the smell of warm pita bread with zaatar filling your house! I can promise you that when your family and friends discover your secret, the breads you bake are guaranteed not to last longer than a few hours.
One of the greatest advantages of Middle Eastern breads is that they are usually soft. This means that you can take pita bread and dip it in olive oil, hummus and tahini - no need for a knife! There are also many regular shaped Middle Eastern breads that you can also learn how to bake.
Anyone who ever made homemade bread knows that bread recipes demand time and energy. However, the quality, taste and pleasure you get when you make your own bread at home are well worth the effort.
Following these simple tips will ensure that you are on right track towards successful Middle Eastern baking:
7 Tips for Successful Middle Eastern Bread Preparation
1. Never add salt or oil while preparing yeast, they will hinder the fermentation process.
2. Heat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit one hour prior to putting the bread in it.
3. Add olive oil to the dough in order to keep it moist and to prevent if from drying out.
4. Be especially careful not to press the dough when putting it in the oven.
5. If you want softer bread, put a heatproof dish with some water in the oven.
6. Use a wet cotton or towel for covering the dough.
7. An average room temperature of 74 degrees is ideal for dough rising.
Want more information? Want to start making delicious breads? Go to Middle Eastern Bread Recipes, where you can get great free recipes and much more
About the Author
Azriel is an expert in Middle Eastern cooking. Visit his website at: http://www.amideastfeast.com/
Making homemade bread is one of the most exciting cooking experiences there is.
If you love cooking, you can upgrade your home cooking by learning how to prepare top quality Middle Eastern breads. Although you can buy commercial Middle Eastern breads, the quality and taste will never come close to your own homemade bread. Imagine the smell of warm pita bread with zaatar filling your house! I can promise you that when your family and friends discover your secret, the breads you bake are guaranteed not to last longer than a few hours.
One of the greatest advantages of Middle Eastern breads is that they are usually soft. This means that you can take pita bread and dip it in olive oil, hummus and tahini - no need for a knife! There are also many regular shaped Middle Eastern breads that you can also learn how to bake.
Anyone who ever made homemade bread knows that bread recipes demand time and energy. However, the quality, taste and pleasure you get when you make your own bread at home are well worth the effort.
Following these simple tips will ensure that you are on right track towards successful Middle Eastern baking:
7 Tips for Successful Middle Eastern Bread Preparation
1. Never add salt or oil while preparing yeast, they will hinder the fermentation process.
2. Heat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit one hour prior to putting the bread in it.
3. Add olive oil to the dough in order to keep it moist and to prevent if from drying out.
4. Be especially careful not to press the dough when putting it in the oven.
5. If you want softer bread, put a heatproof dish with some water in the oven.
6. Use a wet cotton or towel for covering the dough.
7. An average room temperature of 74 degrees is ideal for dough rising.
Want more information? Want to start making delicious breads? Go to Middle Eastern Bread Recipes, where you can get great free recipes and much more
About the Author
Azriel is an expert in Middle Eastern cooking. Visit his website at: http://www.amideastfeast.com/
Tips for Setting a Festive Christmas Table
Tips for Setting a Festive Christmas Table by Connie Raines
This holiday season, you will cooking for hours over a hot stove, preparing a feast for family and friends for Christmas. Why not add some festive touches to the table as well, and make the presentation as breathtaking as the dishes you'll be serving? Here are some tips for a striking presentation.
The Theme: Choose a theme from traditional to contemporary, whimsical to classic. Christmas themes with snow, Santas and angels.Or choose a country Christmas theme and add lots of country touches to your table.Holiday colors of green, red, and white look very festive, or accent with silver or gold for a more elegant touch.
The Table Covering: You may have an heirloom lace tablecloth that was handed down from your great-grandmother ready to use for your Christmas dinnertable, however, if you are concerned about spillage and wine stains, you might want to consider using an inexpensive cotton tablecloth to cover your table with. For a children's table, you could cover a small card table with an inexpensive plastic tablecovering or gift wrapping paper. You could provide crayons at each table setting.
The Centerpiece: Keeping your chosen theme in mind, choose a centerpiece that will stand out and be a conversation piece for guests. Potted Poinsettias make a pretty centerpiece, as do a simple footed bowl full of bright Christmas ornaments, or pine cones. Inexpensive materials such as raffia, golden ribbons, glitter, and sparkles help to fashion many variations of beautiful holiday table decorations.
The Place Settings:
1. Place the dinner plates 1" from the edge of the table.
2 .Place the knife on the right side of the plate . Turn the blade toward the plate.
3. The soup spoon is placed next to the knife
4. The dinner fork is placed to the left side of the dinner plate.
5. The salad fork is placed to the left of the dinner fork.
6. The napkin is folded and placed next to the salad fork.
Note: An easy way to remember the correct order to place utensils is they go in the order in which you use them.
You'll need water goblets, white wine glasses, red wine glasses and champagne flutes.
1. Water Goblets- should be set just above the top of the place knife.
2. Wine Glasses (red or white) is placed slightly to the right of the water goblet.
3. Using both red and white wine glasses- Place them to the right of the water goblet, red then white. The champagne glass is set at the back of the other glassware.
Whether you're serving dinner to family or a group of friends, a beautiful, festive Christmas table will set the mood for a memorable evening. Enjoy!
About the Author
Connie Raines is a Registered Nurse and owner of http://www.conniesheavenlygifts.com, a store that is dedicated to offering high quality giftware, collectibles, decorative accessories, figurines, and more! Come and enjoy a stress free online shopping experience for your holiday shopping today!
This holiday season, you will cooking for hours over a hot stove, preparing a feast for family and friends for Christmas. Why not add some festive touches to the table as well, and make the presentation as breathtaking as the dishes you'll be serving? Here are some tips for a striking presentation.
The Theme: Choose a theme from traditional to contemporary, whimsical to classic. Christmas themes with snow, Santas and angels.Or choose a country Christmas theme and add lots of country touches to your table.Holiday colors of green, red, and white look very festive, or accent with silver or gold for a more elegant touch.
The Table Covering: You may have an heirloom lace tablecloth that was handed down from your great-grandmother ready to use for your Christmas dinnertable, however, if you are concerned about spillage and wine stains, you might want to consider using an inexpensive cotton tablecloth to cover your table with. For a children's table, you could cover a small card table with an inexpensive plastic tablecovering or gift wrapping paper. You could provide crayons at each table setting.
The Centerpiece: Keeping your chosen theme in mind, choose a centerpiece that will stand out and be a conversation piece for guests. Potted Poinsettias make a pretty centerpiece, as do a simple footed bowl full of bright Christmas ornaments, or pine cones. Inexpensive materials such as raffia, golden ribbons, glitter, and sparkles help to fashion many variations of beautiful holiday table decorations.
The Place Settings:
1. Place the dinner plates 1" from the edge of the table.
2 .Place the knife on the right side of the plate . Turn the blade toward the plate.
3. The soup spoon is placed next to the knife
4. The dinner fork is placed to the left side of the dinner plate.
5. The salad fork is placed to the left of the dinner fork.
6. The napkin is folded and placed next to the salad fork.
Note: An easy way to remember the correct order to place utensils is they go in the order in which you use them.
You'll need water goblets, white wine glasses, red wine glasses and champagne flutes.
1. Water Goblets- should be set just above the top of the place knife.
2. Wine Glasses (red or white) is placed slightly to the right of the water goblet.
3. Using both red and white wine glasses- Place them to the right of the water goblet, red then white. The champagne glass is set at the back of the other glassware.
Whether you're serving dinner to family or a group of friends, a beautiful, festive Christmas table will set the mood for a memorable evening. Enjoy!
About the Author
Connie Raines is a Registered Nurse and owner of http://www.conniesheavenlygifts.com, a store that is dedicated to offering high quality giftware, collectibles, decorative accessories, figurines, and more! Come and enjoy a stress free online shopping experience for your holiday shopping today!
Baking Pans Basic Training
Baking Pans Basic Training by Eliu Cordova
There are so many different types of baking pans out there, that it may be difficult for the beginner to sort through them all. In this article, I am going to reveal 3 basic tips to consider that will help you choose the right baking pans for any occasion.
Let's say you're in the kitchen ready to bake something. Whether it's a birthday cake for your child's birthday party, some cupcakes for a school or office event, or even a pie for a special meal, when it's time to bake, you need to know which baking pan to use.
I know how over overwhelming it can be because there are so many different kinds of pans. I was once a beginner and didn't know a bundt cake pan from a cupcake pan. The fact that baking pans come in so many shapes and sizes, and are made of different materials doesn't make it any easier.
I'm going to help you out. The three tips I'm going to discuss are size (yes, it does matter), shape, and material and how to determine which pan is right for your particular baking need, so let's get started...
The first thing to consider is size. The difference in the size of the baking pan determines the volume of batter the pan can hold. It is important that you use the right size of pan for the dish you are preparing. For example, if you use a pan that is too big, it will cause the depth of the batter to be shallower. This, in turn, causes the batter to bake more quickly, and will throw off the cooking times, and even the consistency of the end result.
The opposite is true is the baking pan you use is too small. The batter ends up deeper and will take a longer time to bake. Once again, this throws off the cooking time and the consistency of the end product.
The second thing to consider is shape. The shape of the pan will be determined by what you happen to be baking. Some examples of different shapes are a cake pan, a loaf pan, and a pie pan.
Cake pans can be round or square, but they can also come in a variety of character and odd shapes. For example, there are cartoon characters, and football shapes.
Loaf pans are generally large with flat bottoms. Think of the shape of a loaf of bread that you buy at the store. Do you see the shape in your mind? A loaf pan will produce a similar shape.
Pie pans are only meant for baking pies. I know that sounds simplistic, but it's the truth. Pie pans are usually round and have a flat bottom with sides all around.
The third thing to consider is the material from which your baking pan is made from. There are generally two types...
The first material is metal. The most common metal now used is aluminum because of it's low cost, durability, light weight, and ease of clean up.
The second material is glass, although glass usually refers to baking dishes. Something to consider if you use a glass baking dish is that you may have to reduce the temperature of your oven by about 25 degrees.
Most recipes will let you know what material of pan to use, just in case you're a little confused as to which to choose. If they indicate that you can use either one, then they'll also include some sort of adjustment in cooking times. If not, just remember the 25 degree rule I mentioned above.
There you have it--baking pans explained. Now you know the basics for how to choose the right baking pan no matter what you're baking. You're ready to face the kitchen and let it know who's boss.
About the Author
You know how to choose a baking pan, now you're ready to purchase one too. Get your quality baking pans at http://cakepanstore.com. They offer a great variety of pans for all occasions, and at excellent prices.
There are so many different types of baking pans out there, that it may be difficult for the beginner to sort through them all. In this article, I am going to reveal 3 basic tips to consider that will help you choose the right baking pans for any occasion.
Let's say you're in the kitchen ready to bake something. Whether it's a birthday cake for your child's birthday party, some cupcakes for a school or office event, or even a pie for a special meal, when it's time to bake, you need to know which baking pan to use.
I know how over overwhelming it can be because there are so many different kinds of pans. I was once a beginner and didn't know a bundt cake pan from a cupcake pan. The fact that baking pans come in so many shapes and sizes, and are made of different materials doesn't make it any easier.
I'm going to help you out. The three tips I'm going to discuss are size (yes, it does matter), shape, and material and how to determine which pan is right for your particular baking need, so let's get started...
The first thing to consider is size. The difference in the size of the baking pan determines the volume of batter the pan can hold. It is important that you use the right size of pan for the dish you are preparing. For example, if you use a pan that is too big, it will cause the depth of the batter to be shallower. This, in turn, causes the batter to bake more quickly, and will throw off the cooking times, and even the consistency of the end result.
The opposite is true is the baking pan you use is too small. The batter ends up deeper and will take a longer time to bake. Once again, this throws off the cooking time and the consistency of the end product.
The second thing to consider is shape. The shape of the pan will be determined by what you happen to be baking. Some examples of different shapes are a cake pan, a loaf pan, and a pie pan.
Cake pans can be round or square, but they can also come in a variety of character and odd shapes. For example, there are cartoon characters, and football shapes.
Loaf pans are generally large with flat bottoms. Think of the shape of a loaf of bread that you buy at the store. Do you see the shape in your mind? A loaf pan will produce a similar shape.
Pie pans are only meant for baking pies. I know that sounds simplistic, but it's the truth. Pie pans are usually round and have a flat bottom with sides all around.
The third thing to consider is the material from which your baking pan is made from. There are generally two types...
The first material is metal. The most common metal now used is aluminum because of it's low cost, durability, light weight, and ease of clean up.
The second material is glass, although glass usually refers to baking dishes. Something to consider if you use a glass baking dish is that you may have to reduce the temperature of your oven by about 25 degrees.
Most recipes will let you know what material of pan to use, just in case you're a little confused as to which to choose. If they indicate that you can use either one, then they'll also include some sort of adjustment in cooking times. If not, just remember the 25 degree rule I mentioned above.
There you have it--baking pans explained. Now you know the basics for how to choose the right baking pan no matter what you're baking. You're ready to face the kitchen and let it know who's boss.
About the Author
You know how to choose a baking pan, now you're ready to purchase one too. Get your quality baking pans at http://cakepanstore.com. They offer a great variety of pans for all occasions, and at excellent prices.
Easy Way to do well when cooking for a crowd
Easy Way to do well when cooking for a crowd by Satwinder
You don't need to panic if you find yourself on a situation you need to cook for a crowd. Choosing the appropriate equipment and adapting well the preparation you will find out it's not that huge challenge or mysterious science to cook for a lot of people. All you need is to prepare yourself, leave everything you need organized and be safe.
Food and Hygiene Safety
Cooking for a crowd involves hazards you absolutely need to be aware of. Make sure you have the appropriate knowledge of the right cooking and storing temperatures. Wrong temperatures are the biggest cause of food contamination since bacteria grows incredibly fast when you don't prepare it right. For more details go to www.cajuns-recipes.com . You are probably wondering what you can do to have the food properly cooked and don't risk your guests health. It's not difficult. By monitoring the temperature of your dishes you can avoid them to reach dangerous temperature zones. When possible, we also recommend dividing the dishes in small portions for storage. It will allow the food to easily cool avoiding creating bacteria friendly environment.
Portions - Rule of Ten
To avoid either hungry guests or waste of food you need to estimate quantities.
To figure out how much you will have to enlarge your recipe, the catering industry uses the Rule of Ten. It says that for ten adults you will need:
Meat - four pounds Potatoes for salad - three pounds Dry pasta for salad - one pound Peeled pre-cooked prawns - two to three pounds Shellfish - two pounds Soup to be served as appetizer - half gallon Soup to be served as main course - one gallon Salad - two pounds of leaves Salad dressing - three cups Cocktails - twenty per hour Punch - a gallon
If you know the guests enjoy cocktails a lot, make sure you have the proper amount of ice (ten pounds) and a good assortment of soft drinks. Watch the liquors as well! You will need a 750 ml bottle for each 16 cocktails.
Cooking Provisions
You may find it hard to encounter pans, pots and dishware to cook for a crowd. Disposable foil pans are an option, but you need to be aware that they can be quite fragile when holding hot or heavy food. For more details go to www.apples-recipes.com .To avoid getting into trouble your best shot is to rent professional equipment that will give you the peace of mind of having the proper tools what will certainly help you to concentrate exclusively on the food.
Make a dish list
When serving, make sure you have a list of everything you prepared. Score out what you have already served, and you will avoid to have by the end of the dinner not served dishes remaining inside your fridge.
Organization is the key for cutting out "worries" from your menu when you are cooking for a crowd. Following those simple tips, I'm sure you will be very proud of yourself when the party is over.
About the Author
www.cooking-chinese-style.com
www.delicious-candy-recipes.com
You don't need to panic if you find yourself on a situation you need to cook for a crowd. Choosing the appropriate equipment and adapting well the preparation you will find out it's not that huge challenge or mysterious science to cook for a lot of people. All you need is to prepare yourself, leave everything you need organized and be safe.
Food and Hygiene Safety
Cooking for a crowd involves hazards you absolutely need to be aware of. Make sure you have the appropriate knowledge of the right cooking and storing temperatures. Wrong temperatures are the biggest cause of food contamination since bacteria grows incredibly fast when you don't prepare it right. For more details go to www.cajuns-recipes.com . You are probably wondering what you can do to have the food properly cooked and don't risk your guests health. It's not difficult. By monitoring the temperature of your dishes you can avoid them to reach dangerous temperature zones. When possible, we also recommend dividing the dishes in small portions for storage. It will allow the food to easily cool avoiding creating bacteria friendly environment.
Portions - Rule of Ten
To avoid either hungry guests or waste of food you need to estimate quantities.
To figure out how much you will have to enlarge your recipe, the catering industry uses the Rule of Ten. It says that for ten adults you will need:
Meat - four pounds Potatoes for salad - three pounds Dry pasta for salad - one pound Peeled pre-cooked prawns - two to three pounds Shellfish - two pounds Soup to be served as appetizer - half gallon Soup to be served as main course - one gallon Salad - two pounds of leaves Salad dressing - three cups Cocktails - twenty per hour Punch - a gallon
If you know the guests enjoy cocktails a lot, make sure you have the proper amount of ice (ten pounds) and a good assortment of soft drinks. Watch the liquors as well! You will need a 750 ml bottle for each 16 cocktails.
Cooking Provisions
You may find it hard to encounter pans, pots and dishware to cook for a crowd. Disposable foil pans are an option, but you need to be aware that they can be quite fragile when holding hot or heavy food. For more details go to www.apples-recipes.com .To avoid getting into trouble your best shot is to rent professional equipment that will give you the peace of mind of having the proper tools what will certainly help you to concentrate exclusively on the food.
Make a dish list
When serving, make sure you have a list of everything you prepared. Score out what you have already served, and you will avoid to have by the end of the dinner not served dishes remaining inside your fridge.
Organization is the key for cutting out "worries" from your menu when you are cooking for a crowd. Following those simple tips, I'm sure you will be very proud of yourself when the party is over.
About the Author
www.cooking-chinese-style.com
www.delicious-candy-recipes.com
Monday, December 8, 2008
Eating Healthy
Eating Healthy by Rlhs76
Healthy Eating
Being a healthy eater requires you to become both educated and smart about what healthy eating actually is. Being food smart isn't about learning to calculate grams or fat, or is it about studying labels and counting calories.
Healthy eating is all about balanced and moderate eating, consisting of healthy meals at least three times per day. Healthy eaters eat many different types of foods, not limiting themselves to one specific food type or food group.
Eating healthy requires quite a bit of leeway. You might eat too much or not enough, consume foods that are sometimes more or less nutritious. However, you should always fuel your body and your brain regularly with enough food to keep both your mind and body strong and alert.
Bad cholesterol or a bad diet is something we all experience at some point in time. It's impossible to eat healthy our whole lives, even though we may try hard to do it. Eating healthy for your heart is something everyone should try to do, especially when it comes to restoring health and reducing heart attacks.
Your heart and food We know these things for sure - a diet high in saturated fats will help raise your cholesterol, which is a risk factor for heart disease. People that are obese are more prone to heart disease. A diet high in sodium may elevate your blood pressure, leading to inflammation and even heart disease.
To help prevent heart disease and improve your health, put the tips below to good use.
Eat plenty of fish Herring, sardines, and salmon are all excellent sources of Omega 3 essential fatty acids. Other fish are great to, although Omega 3 may help to get your cholesterol down to a healthier level.
Choosing healthy fats and oils Saturated fat will increase the risk of heart disease. It's found in meat, butter, and even coconut oil. You should avoid them until your cholesterol levels are down and you are at a healthy weight. Even those that love red meats can enjoy seafood and nuts for their main sources of protein.
Monounsaturated fats such as olive oils will help you to protect your heart. Olive oil is an ideal choice for cooking, dressing, or even as a dipping sauce.
Plenty of fiber Fiber can help you control your cholesterol. You can find fiber in whole grain products to help control sugar absorption as well, which will help you keep your digestive system healthy.
Choosing carbohydrates Eating for your heart involves staying away from sugary foods such as candy, cookies, cakes, and pastries. Eating a lot of sugar isn't good for your heart disease at all. Healthy carbohydrates involve whole grain breads, whole grain pasta, brown rice, and a lot of vegetables. You should make fruits and vegetables the main aspect of your diet.
Healthy cooking methods Stir frying and sauteing with olive oil or canola oil are both great methods, as you shouldn't dip your food in batter and fry it anymore. If you cook chicken, remove the skin and bake it in the oven in foil.
Instead of frying your fish you should always bake it. Steaming your vegetables can help maintain the most nutrients. You should use cream sauces or lots of butter anymore either. When you eat vegetables, try squeezing lemon juice on them or using your favorite seasonings.
As you make the proper changes to your diet, keep in mind that it takes time for them to become habits. Eating healthy is always great for your body and your lifestyle, especially when it comes to your heart and the prevention of heart disease.
A healthy eater is a good problem solver. Healthy eaters have learned to take care of themselves and their eating with sound judgment and making wise decisions. Healthy eaters are always aware of what they eat, and know the effect that it will have on their bodies.
When someone is unable to take control of their eating, they are also likely to get out of control with other aspects of life as well. They could end up spending too much, talking too much, even going to bed later and later.
You should always remember that restricting food in any way is always a bad thing. Healthy eating is a way of life, something that you can do to enhance your body or your lifestyle. If you've thought about making your life better, healthy eating is just the place to start. You'll make life easier for yourself, those around you, and even your family. For more information on Acid Reflux and other health issues, try visiting http://www.gorillacats.com/
About the Author
Rlhs76 maintains a health and beauty information site that can be viewed at http://www.gorillacats.com/
Healthy Eating
Being a healthy eater requires you to become both educated and smart about what healthy eating actually is. Being food smart isn't about learning to calculate grams or fat, or is it about studying labels and counting calories.
Healthy eating is all about balanced and moderate eating, consisting of healthy meals at least three times per day. Healthy eaters eat many different types of foods, not limiting themselves to one specific food type or food group.
Eating healthy requires quite a bit of leeway. You might eat too much or not enough, consume foods that are sometimes more or less nutritious. However, you should always fuel your body and your brain regularly with enough food to keep both your mind and body strong and alert.
Bad cholesterol or a bad diet is something we all experience at some point in time. It's impossible to eat healthy our whole lives, even though we may try hard to do it. Eating healthy for your heart is something everyone should try to do, especially when it comes to restoring health and reducing heart attacks.
Your heart and food We know these things for sure - a diet high in saturated fats will help raise your cholesterol, which is a risk factor for heart disease. People that are obese are more prone to heart disease. A diet high in sodium may elevate your blood pressure, leading to inflammation and even heart disease.
To help prevent heart disease and improve your health, put the tips below to good use.
Eat plenty of fish Herring, sardines, and salmon are all excellent sources of Omega 3 essential fatty acids. Other fish are great to, although Omega 3 may help to get your cholesterol down to a healthier level.
Choosing healthy fats and oils Saturated fat will increase the risk of heart disease. It's found in meat, butter, and even coconut oil. You should avoid them until your cholesterol levels are down and you are at a healthy weight. Even those that love red meats can enjoy seafood and nuts for their main sources of protein.
Monounsaturated fats such as olive oils will help you to protect your heart. Olive oil is an ideal choice for cooking, dressing, or even as a dipping sauce.
Plenty of fiber Fiber can help you control your cholesterol. You can find fiber in whole grain products to help control sugar absorption as well, which will help you keep your digestive system healthy.
Choosing carbohydrates Eating for your heart involves staying away from sugary foods such as candy, cookies, cakes, and pastries. Eating a lot of sugar isn't good for your heart disease at all. Healthy carbohydrates involve whole grain breads, whole grain pasta, brown rice, and a lot of vegetables. You should make fruits and vegetables the main aspect of your diet.
Healthy cooking methods Stir frying and sauteing with olive oil or canola oil are both great methods, as you shouldn't dip your food in batter and fry it anymore. If you cook chicken, remove the skin and bake it in the oven in foil.
Instead of frying your fish you should always bake it. Steaming your vegetables can help maintain the most nutrients. You should use cream sauces or lots of butter anymore either. When you eat vegetables, try squeezing lemon juice on them or using your favorite seasonings.
As you make the proper changes to your diet, keep in mind that it takes time for them to become habits. Eating healthy is always great for your body and your lifestyle, especially when it comes to your heart and the prevention of heart disease.
A healthy eater is a good problem solver. Healthy eaters have learned to take care of themselves and their eating with sound judgment and making wise decisions. Healthy eaters are always aware of what they eat, and know the effect that it will have on their bodies.
When someone is unable to take control of their eating, they are also likely to get out of control with other aspects of life as well. They could end up spending too much, talking too much, even going to bed later and later.
You should always remember that restricting food in any way is always a bad thing. Healthy eating is a way of life, something that you can do to enhance your body or your lifestyle. If you've thought about making your life better, healthy eating is just the place to start. You'll make life easier for yourself, those around you, and even your family. For more information on Acid Reflux and other health issues, try visiting http://www.gorillacats.com/
About the Author
Rlhs76 maintains a health and beauty information site that can be viewed at http://www.gorillacats.com/
Monday, December 1, 2008
Several Ways to Save Electricity and Energy in the Kitchen
Several Ways to Save Electricity and Energy in the Kitchen by H. Y. Wong
There are several ways in which we can save electricity and energy in the kitchen. One way is to see if we can reduce the cooking times. Another way is to see if a different appliance does the same job and yet uses less energy. Yet another way is to see if we can reduce wastage. Here are some tips.
1. Defrost food first before cooking it. You can do it in a fridge overnight or in a microwave if you want the defrosting done quickly.
2. Put a lid on the pan when you're cooking. When a pan is covered, heat loss is reduced. That means you can set the stove on low to keep the content simmering. The cooking time will also be reduced.
3. Use a pressure cooker to cook foods. Since it operates at a higher pressure, water therefore boils at a higher temperature. The higher temperature of the water and steam causes the food to be cooked much faster, using less energy.
4. Don't use a small pan on a large burner. Match the sizes of the pan and of the heating element.
5. Use flat-bottomed pans instead of warped-bottom ones, particularly when cooking on electric stove.
6. Stir fry meat and vegetables. It takes more time to chop up the meat, but the meat then cooks much quicker.
7. Use a kettle to boil water instead of using a stove top burner. Boil only the amount of water that is needed, whether it is for making tea or for cooking.
8. When baking in the oven, experiment to see if preheating time can be kept to a minimum or done away all together.
9. Try not to open the oven door to check on cooking progress as a lot of heat escapes otherwise. It can be helpful having an oven thermometer or an oven-safe meat thermometer.
10. Where possible, use a microwave oven. Microwaves uses a considerable amount of energy when in use but it more than makes up for it by the much reduced cooking times. It draws much less electricity than an electric oven for the same job.
11. Use a toaster oven to do small baking jobs instead of an oven. Using a toaster oven decreases the area to be heated and in so doing saves energy. Use it for things like baking potatoes, fish sticks, chicken nuggets etc.
12. Use a convection microwave that offers, within the same unit, microwave, convection oven and grill features. Some of these microwave ovens can cook food using both convection and microwave at the same time, providing crisp brown exteriors and retaining juiciness for meats and chickens.
13. Use a steamer for cooking meals like fish and vegetables. It cannot burn the food and has a relatively low power consumption.
14. Use a crock pot (slow cooker) instead of a stove top burner to cook soups and stews that typically take a long time. It will let these dishes simmer gently.
15. Use a thermal cooker for things like soups and stews. A thermal cooker has 2 parts: an inner pan and an outer container. The inner pan is used to bring foods to a boil on a stove. It is then placed inside the insulated outer container and sealed until cooked.
16. Use an induction cooker. It uses magnetic induction to transfer heat from the cooker to the pan on the surface. The cooktop surface also stays relatively cool while the food in the pan is cooking. Induction cookers have a very high energy efficiency, much higher than traditional stoves.
17. Use an electricity monitor to measure the electrical usage of various electrical appliances in the kitchen.
The last point is worth mentioning in a little more detail. Some electricity monitors not only measure the electricity consumption but also work out the actual cost. All you have to do is to input the electric rate found on the utility bill and the monitor does the calculation for you.
Using an electricity monitor, you can find out the usage costs of your kitchen electrical appliances and then come up with your own list of energy saving tips and ideas.
About the Author
Find out more information about electricity monitor and other practical electrical gadgets. You will also discover many other interesting household gadgets on the web site
There are several ways in which we can save electricity and energy in the kitchen. One way is to see if we can reduce the cooking times. Another way is to see if a different appliance does the same job and yet uses less energy. Yet another way is to see if we can reduce wastage. Here are some tips.
1. Defrost food first before cooking it. You can do it in a fridge overnight or in a microwave if you want the defrosting done quickly.
2. Put a lid on the pan when you're cooking. When a pan is covered, heat loss is reduced. That means you can set the stove on low to keep the content simmering. The cooking time will also be reduced.
3. Use a pressure cooker to cook foods. Since it operates at a higher pressure, water therefore boils at a higher temperature. The higher temperature of the water and steam causes the food to be cooked much faster, using less energy.
4. Don't use a small pan on a large burner. Match the sizes of the pan and of the heating element.
5. Use flat-bottomed pans instead of warped-bottom ones, particularly when cooking on electric stove.
6. Stir fry meat and vegetables. It takes more time to chop up the meat, but the meat then cooks much quicker.
7. Use a kettle to boil water instead of using a stove top burner. Boil only the amount of water that is needed, whether it is for making tea or for cooking.
8. When baking in the oven, experiment to see if preheating time can be kept to a minimum or done away all together.
9. Try not to open the oven door to check on cooking progress as a lot of heat escapes otherwise. It can be helpful having an oven thermometer or an oven-safe meat thermometer.
10. Where possible, use a microwave oven. Microwaves uses a considerable amount of energy when in use but it more than makes up for it by the much reduced cooking times. It draws much less electricity than an electric oven for the same job.
11. Use a toaster oven to do small baking jobs instead of an oven. Using a toaster oven decreases the area to be heated and in so doing saves energy. Use it for things like baking potatoes, fish sticks, chicken nuggets etc.
12. Use a convection microwave that offers, within the same unit, microwave, convection oven and grill features. Some of these microwave ovens can cook food using both convection and microwave at the same time, providing crisp brown exteriors and retaining juiciness for meats and chickens.
13. Use a steamer for cooking meals like fish and vegetables. It cannot burn the food and has a relatively low power consumption.
14. Use a crock pot (slow cooker) instead of a stove top burner to cook soups and stews that typically take a long time. It will let these dishes simmer gently.
15. Use a thermal cooker for things like soups and stews. A thermal cooker has 2 parts: an inner pan and an outer container. The inner pan is used to bring foods to a boil on a stove. It is then placed inside the insulated outer container and sealed until cooked.
16. Use an induction cooker. It uses magnetic induction to transfer heat from the cooker to the pan on the surface. The cooktop surface also stays relatively cool while the food in the pan is cooking. Induction cookers have a very high energy efficiency, much higher than traditional stoves.
17. Use an electricity monitor to measure the electrical usage of various electrical appliances in the kitchen.
The last point is worth mentioning in a little more detail. Some electricity monitors not only measure the electricity consumption but also work out the actual cost. All you have to do is to input the electric rate found on the utility bill and the monitor does the calculation for you.
Using an electricity monitor, you can find out the usage costs of your kitchen electrical appliances and then come up with your own list of energy saving tips and ideas.
About the Author
Find out more information about electricity monitor and other practical electrical gadgets. You will also discover many other interesting household gadgets on the web site
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