How To Use Pears In Autumn Recipes

While pears aren't talked about quite as much as apples, they are one of the most popular fruits of the autumn season. They make a great snack on their own. For something a little bit heartier, you can also have them with a few slices of cheese or a handful of nuts. They work well when chopped up and mixed into salads, as well.

Baked goods like crumbles, cakes, and tarts are also delicious when made with pears. Serve up a slice of pear custard pie, and watch your guests clean their plates! Usually, if a recipe uses apples, you can substitute pears instead for a slightly different flavor. The tips below will help you buy beautiful pears, store them correctly, and properly prepare them for all of your favorite fall treats.

Buying Perfect Pears

Pears are harvested before they ripen, which means that they usually are hard when you purchase them at the store.

Check the skin of the pear for any signs of bruising or any unusual marks. Pears with even, unmarked skin are the best choice.

Most stores or fruit vendors carry a few different types of pears. The majority of these varieties are delicious when eaten raw or when cooked. Comice pears are some of the best to eat raw since they are extremely juicy. Bosc pears, on the other hand, are a lot firmer, which makes them ideal for adding to cooked dishes.

Tips For Storing Pears

Instead of putting newly-purchased pears in the refrigerator, leave them out on the counter where they can continue ripening. Certain varieties experience color changes as they ripen. The most effective way to tell whether or not a pear is ripe, however, is by squeezing it at the narrow end. If it is soft enough that it presses in under your fingers, the pear is most likely ripe. If the body of the pear is soft, however, it may be too ripe, which can result in a spongy or grainy texture.

If you want to speed up the ripening process, try putting the pears into a bag along with an apple. The ethylene gas given off by apples promotes faster ripening.

After the pears are ripe, move them to the refrigerator to help them last longer. Most refrigerated pears stay good for as long as five days. Pears that have ripened are quite fragile and can easily be damaged, which is why it is important to treat them with care.

Tips For Preparing Pears

The easiest way to remove the skin of a pear is with a vegetable peeler. To get the greatest nutritional value, however, consider leaving the skin in place since it contains a lot of nutrients.

Melon ballers are great for getting rid of pear stems and cores.

The post How To Use Pears In Autumn Recipes appeared first on Cooky Mom.

5 Great Ways On How To Reheat Ribs Back To Its Glorious Juiciness

There is nothing like fine, juicy racks of ribs to make you drool. 

Whether it is freshly grilled from your own backyard BBQ or from a fine restaurant, ribs are nice, tummy-growling chunks to sink your teeth on!

Ribs are just so delicious and there is no denying that! In fact, they’re so delicious that we tend to get and cook more than we can consume.

Guilty?

Yep, me too!

Now, what should we do if those yummy, juicy ribs are no longer hot off the grill?

Well, do not feel so bad. You can always pre-heat these bad boys so you can gnaw on them again, no problem!

With that said, I give you 5 great ways how to reheat ribs and get them ready for a meat after-party!

Method #1: Oven Heating

If you happen to have this trusty kitchen appliance, then you will be glad to know that it can effectively reheat your leftover ribs in just 30 minutes and without any flavor loss.

What you will need

• Oven
• A baking pan
• Foil
• Barbecue Sauce

Reheating Ribs In The Oven

• 1Step 1: Pre-heat the oven to 250°.
• 2Step 2: Pour barbecue sauce over the meat and evenly cover them up.
• 3Step 3: Wrap the ribs neatly in foil in order to make sure that each piece will be evenly heated. 
• 4Step 4: Once the oven reaches the necessary temperature, put the ribs in a baking pan and put it inside the oven. Use oven mitts in order to avoid burning your hands while placing the ribs in the oven. 
• 5Step 5: Heat the ribs for 20 – 30 minutes. This should depend on how many pieces of ribs you want to re-heat. 
• 6Step 6: Take the ribs out and allow to cool for 5 minutes. 

Method #2: Grill Reheating

This is probably my favorite way to reheat leftover ribs. It makes the meat gets those wonderful grill marks and also brings back its glorious juiciness and flavor!

What you will need

• Barbecue Sauce
• Tongs
• Grill

Pro Tip: You can use either gas, electric or charcoal grills. Although if you wish to add a smoky flavor to your dish, then it’s best you choose charcoals.

Reheating Ribs On a Grill

• 1Step 1: Prepare the grill to medium heat.
• 2Step 2: You will need some barbecue sauce and cover up the ribs. This should prevent the meat from drying out and adds flavor to the meat.
• 3Step 3: Place the ribs on the grill.
• 4Step 4: Heat for 2 – 3 minutes.
• 5Step 5: Using tongs, turn the ribs over to the other side.
• 6Step 6: Repeat the process for a few times or until the ribs is completely reheated.

Method #3: Microwave Heating

This is probably the quickest and easiest way for you to reheat ribs. So, if you are in a hurry or do not have the time to take out your oven or grill, then you can just prepare your ribs using the microwave.

What you will need

• Microwave
• Barbecue Sauce
• Microwaveable container (plastic or glass container)

Reheating Ribs In A Microwave

• 1Step 1: Place the ribs in the microwave-safe container.
• 2Step 2: Spread some sauce over the ribs in order to prevent the meat from drying out.
• 3Step 3: Put the container in the microwave.
• 4Step 4: Set the microwave to medium heat.
• 5Step 5: Heat the meat for 3 – 5 minutes.
• 6Step 6: Take them out and see if they are evenly heated.
• 7Step 7: If not, put them back and heat them for another 3 minutes.

Method #4: Steaming

A less common method of rib reheating, steaming is not as fast as microwave heating, however, it ensures that your meat will not dry out.

What you will need

• Pot, steamer or crock pot
• Steamer basket
• Barbecue sauce

Reheating Ribs On a Steamer

• 1Step 1: Fill the pot, steamer or crock pot with a fourth cup of water and heat it until boiling. If you want to add some sweet flavor, you can also add apple juice.
• 2Step 2: Place the ribs into the steamer basket.
• 3Step 3: Once the water is boiling, hang the steamer basket over the water and place a lid on top.
• 4Step 4: Allow the meat to steam for at least 30 minutes.
• 5Step 5: When the ribs are hot, turn off the heat and place the meat on a plate.
• 6Step 6: The steamer should be filled with what is left of the water and apple juice as well as some juicy drippings from the meat. Stir the leftover juice thoroughly. Then pour some on top of your reheated ribs for added flavor.

Pro Tip: Try to avoid checking the meat when steaming. This will just allow the steam to escape and lower the temperature inside, taking it longer to finish.

Method #5: The Sous Vide Method

You might not have heard about this reheating method, however, it is actually an efficient and popular reheating method, particularly in some countries.

The Sous Vide reheating method basically works by placing the leftover meats in an air-sealed plastic bag and placing it in a temperature-controlled steam environment or in boiling water.

With this method, you will need to aim for a much lower temperature than other methods, about 150° Fahrenheit.

Make sure that the ribs are thawed, then place them on an air-tight bag.

For ribs, it actually depends on how long you have to heat it up, however, in general, it should take 45 minutes to an hour. If you leave the house or doing other stuff, then you can further lower the temperature and allow the ribs to cook for a longer time, around 3 hours.

Additional Juicy Tips

1. Keeping the Ribs Juicy

The main problem with reheating food is that they can lose their juiciness and end up being dry and tasteless. Since the meat has already been cooked before, then reheating will only take away any moisture that is left.

In order to keep the meat nice and juicy when reheating them, you just need to cover it with barbecue sauce or any other sauce you like to keep the meat moist and juicy.

2. Getting The Right Food Temperature

When reheating food, sometimes it does not get heated up all the way to the center. And you might find yourself biting through a hot surface only to be disappointed with a cold center.

In order to make sure that your food is thoroughly heated, you should consider using a cooking thermometer that should help you determine the inner temperature of the meat that you are reheating.

Juicy Thoughts

Regardless of which method you choose, it should ensure that you can feast on glorious ribs for the second time around!

However, if you would ask me, I’d definitely go with grilling the leftover ribs again to have that smoky flavor and the wonderful grill lines, giving the illusion like the meats are newly cooked!

I hope you find this article helpful. If you ever have another rib reheating technique hidden, feel free to share it with the entire community and fire up the comment section below!

Until then, happy feasting!

The post 5 Great Ways On How To Reheat Ribs Back To Its Glorious Juiciness appeared first on Cooky Mom.

7 Best Balsamic Vinegar Substitute (#3 Might Already Be in Your Kitchen Cabinets)

Countless recipes have called for it. 

And even though a recipe does not necessarily require it, chances are you still add a drop or two in some just to add that distinct taste and aroma.

What’s that you may ask?

The dark liquid called balsamic vinegar.

Its unique taste and aroma are what sets it apart from the readily available kinds of cooking vinegar out there. But, such unique taste is also the reason why most cooks, like me, panic when they’ve used it ‘till the last drop. 

And recently, I have struggled to find a solution for such scenarios. 

The good news is:

The good news is

There is a variety of ingredients which can help when you suddenly run out of balsamic vinegar. 

But, first…

Understanding Balsamic Vinegar: What Is It And How It Is Made?

First off, I’d like to clear something:

When I say balsamic vinegar, I’m talking about the authentic and traditional one— this is the prized Italian possession with royalty background since its taste is incomparable with other commercial brands which are readily available in most local stores and supermarkets.

Cheaper commercial versions are typically diluted with wine vinegar and many of them contain artificial flavors and colors. Plus, they have the viscosity, thanks to cornflour or guar gum.

The traditional balsamic vinegar, on the other hand, comes in dark brown color and has been used and prepared in Modena and Reggio Emilia of Italy during the Middle Ages. It is made from the juice of fresh white grapes that are boiled or cooked in order to create a concentrated syrup.

The syrup is then stored in wooden barrels made from various types of woods, such as acacia, ash, juniper, cherry, chestnuts, mulberry, and oak. There, the syrup is fermented through the slow aging process.

The slow aging process can take anywhere from 12 – 25 years, with some reaching up to 100 years. With such a long period of fermenting, moisture evaporates out and concentrating the flavor and thickening the vinegar. Plus, the woods progressively add character to the vinegar.

This painstakingly complex and laborious procedure is what makes authentic balsamic vinegar from Modena so precious and valuable, and of a royal price tag as well.

Balsamic Vinegar Uses

This specialty vinegar is usually used in sauces, marinades and salad dressing. It is also used to create dips, steaks, reductions and grilled fish as well. Other than that, balsamic vinegar is also used in many meat and vegetable dishes, poached fruits, risottos, pasta, grilled meat and deglazing pans.

7 Best Substitute For Balsamic Vinegar

So, what happens when this precious dark liquid suddenly ran out? You can’t afford running at your local store in the middle of your cooking just to get a bottle, right? Plus, your local stores might not have that authentic balsamic vinegar. So, what do you do?

Try these balsamic vinegar substitutes for the moment!

If You Want To Find Peanut Oil, Sage, Ricotta Cheese, Food Mill, Paprika, Port Wine, Lemongrass, Fennel Seeds or Tomato Paste Substitutes As Well, Simply Follow The Links Provided!

1. Sherry Vinegar

Let’s start the list with the thing that probably has the closest flavor to balsamic vinegar. Akin to balsamic vinegar, sherry vinegar also has a mild and sweet flavor. They are both made in the same way and taste pretty much the same.

Thus, if you plan to use this vinegar, then there’s no need for you to go through different mixing just to achieve a similar taste. Also, it can be used for dishes which need the balsamic vinegar as an ingredient. However, if you wish to add some zing to your Sherry vinegar, then you can just try reducing it with some pomegranate molasses.

2. Red Wine Vinegar

If you do not mind adding a bit of bitter taste to the recipe that calls for balsamic vinegar, then red wine vinegar should work for you.

To create this balsamic vinegar substitute, you’ll need to:

• Mix half a teaspoon of sugar with a tablespoon of red wine vinegar. 
• You can use other types of sweeteners such as cane sugar, brown sugar, white granulated sugar and honey.
• Mix the ingredients thoroughly until you have achieved a taste that is similar to balsamic vinegar.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar + Sugar

You see that good old bottle of Apple Cider vinegar in your cabinet? How about those sweet granules of sugar? Did you know that mixing those two offers the similar fruitiness of balsamic vinegar?

No?

Well, now you know!

Now, in order to achieve the distinct taste of balsamic vinegar, you will need a 1:2 ratio.

Just mix a single teaspoon of Apple Cider with a half teaspoon of granulated sugar. You can even use other types of sugars like cane sugar, brown sugar and white granulated sugar. 

4. Chinese Black Vinegar

The composition of Chinese Vinegar consists of glutinous rice and malts, making it a great alternative for balsamic vinegar. The ingredients offer its dark complex vinegar which is quite similar to balsamic vinegar.

Like Sherry vinegar, the Chinese Black vinegar comes with a very similar flavor to balsamic vinegar, so you no longer have to use various ingredients in order to change its flavor.

Another good thing about this substitute is that you can buy it for a lesser price than balsamic vinegar. Balsamic vinegar can cost you about $20 at local markets, while Chinese black vinegar only cost half its price.

5. Beef Stock + White Vinegar

Yep, you’re reading it right.

Beef stock, it is!

Since balsamic vinegar has a strong taste, beef stocks can be used to replace that popular taste. And by adding white vinegar, you’re good to go!

Reduce your beef stock before you add regular vinegar. Then, reduce the stock again.

You can use any vinegar at your disposal, however, plain white vinegar are still the best since other types can produce a distinct flavor which might increase the taste of the beef stock.

After the reduction and mixture, you can just play with its flavor by just adding a bit of sugar.

6. Balsamic Vinaigrette

This beautiful Italian ingredient already comes with a huge amount of balsamic vinegar. However, this might not be an ideal substitute for some since it contains other ingredients such as salt, herbs, sugars, and oils.

But, if you are just merely using it as a spice or adding it to your salad dressing, then this should work for you. And if you think that balsamic vinaigrette is lacking in tanginess or fruitiness than just add a good amount of squeezed lemon juice.

7. Lemon Juice + Molasses + Soy Sauce

Did you know you can create your own balsamic vinegar from scratch?

With these 3 ingredients, you will have your balsamic vinegar with the salty and sweet acidic flavor you look for!

Here’s how you should do it:

Mix a single tablespoon of molasses with lemon juice and a bit of soy sauce. I suggest you add soy sauce, one tablespoon at a time in order to prevent the mixture from tasting too bitter. You can also use the same amount of dark corn syrup or honey.

Royal Thoughts

Who would have thought that you could utilize a lot of other food items as a substitute to the royal, black liquid called Balsamic vinegar? And with adequate balsamic vinegar alternatives out there, it is up to you to be creative and imaginative in the kitchen in order to reach the best taste that you’re looking for.

I hope you find this article helpful. If you have any other alternative for balsamic vinegar that we did not know about or if you have any tips and questions, feel free to share it at the comment section below.

Until then, happy cooking!

The post 7 Best Balsamic Vinegar Substitute (#3 Might Already Be in Your Kitchen Cabinets) appeared first on Cooky Mom.

Best Latte and Cappuccino Machines 2019: Top 5+ Recommended

I HEART coffee!

Especially on a cold morning— when its aroma fills your entire home and waking up every cell in your body.

But, not just ordinary coffee will do. Like any other coffee enthusiast out there, I like sipping on all kinds of coffee and experimenting on the extensive menus of coffee shops.

But, do you know what I like most? Something that I will order over and over again?

Creamy lattes and cappuccinos!

So, if you are like me who’s pretty addicted to the heavenly creaminess they bring, then you might want to try making one of your own.

You could do just that and unleash your inner barista with the best latte and cappuccino machines at your disposal!

Why Invest in Latte and Cappuccino Machine When I Can Just Buy My Coffee At The Coffee Shop?

Uhm, I think you pretty much answered that question there.

Why buy your lattes or cappuccinos at the coffee shop?

Don’t get me wrong, I do buy lattes or cappuccinos at my local coffee shop, but I do so when I’m already out and taking a break from grocery shopping.

Unless you are a fan of overpaying for a cup of coffee and standing in lines every time you want a coffee, I don’t really see how you would think that buying cappuccinos and lattes at a coffee shop beats having your own best latte and cappuccino machine at home.

First and foremost, getting your own latte and cappuccino machine will save you lots of money. Although, buying your own coffee machine seems like a massive purchase, but how much do you think you spend in your local café monthly?

Go on, get your calculator and do the math. I’ll wait…

But, kidding aside, I’m guessing you could pay off the best latte and cappuccino machine easily with that sum, couldn’t you?

Oh, and it is more convenient that way! You do not have to plan your entire morning around waiting on a long line in your local coffee shop. You only see in, create your own cappuccino or latte (whichever you like) and start the day at your own. Sounds hassle-free, right?

And the greatest of all:

It is way more fun figuring everything out on your own, creating your own lattes and cappuccinos, experimenting with various flavors and maybe mastering the art of decorating your cappuccinos and lattes with those intricate patterns and shapes that will surely WOW your family and guests every time they visit you.

Tell me that does not sound exciting at all and I will delete this article, right away!

Latte VS. Cappuccino Showdown

I’ve been talking about latte and cappuccinos for some time now, but for the new coffee lover, it might sound confusing.

Latte (also known as Caffé latte) and cappuccino are the 2 most popular Italian coffee drinks and are both prepared using creamy, hot milk. But, they do have their own differences.

What is Latte?

It is an espresso-based milky coffee drink with 1 – 3 or 1 – 9, espresso to milk ration. It is nothing else than milk with coffee.

It is quite popular since the coffee content is quite diluted and the standard recipe can be tweaked by adding different flavors, creating latte a dessert. Its frothed milk layer also allows baristas to create intricate patterns and beautiful drawings.

Latte Coffee Recipe

The standard latte recipe is prepared in an 8 ounces cup and contains the following ingredients:

• 1 or 2 shots of espresso ( 1 shot = 1 ounces)
• About 5 – 6 ounces of steamed milk
• Top up with a thin layer of frothed milk
• Flavorings as desired

What is Cappuccino?

Anther espresso-based drink, Cappuccino is a stronger coffee with equal volumes espresso, frothed milk, and steamed milk. So, as you can see, the main difference between latte and cappuccino is its milk content— latte is creamier thanks to its greater amount of milk, whereas cappuccino is just a milder coffee.

The coffee to milk ration of cappuccinos is about 1 – 1.5, considering that the foamed milk is at least double in amount compared to steam milk. Cappuccino offers a bold and rich taste, like any espresso coffee would, but is slightly toned down, due to the steamed milk.

Cappuccino Coffee Recipe

The standard cappuccino recipe contains:

• A single shot of espresso which should not be drip or instant coffee.
• 1 ounce of steamed milk
• 1 ounce of microfoamed milk

Understanding Espresso Machines: For Latte and Cappuccino Making

Now, for the newbies, I understand that you might be confused.

We’re talking about latte and cappuccino machines, how come espresso machines suddenly appeared!

The simple answer

Lattes and cappuccinos are made with espresso machines.

Both coffee needs espresso coffee as their base. People use different recipes for lattes since the amount of milk sometimes covers the coffee taste. However, for the authentic cappuccino taste, real espresso is the best choice.

And both can be achieved with a great espresso machine.

Espresso Machines are group into 2 categories: super-automatic and semi-automatic

1. Super-Automatic Machines

If you are a die-hard latte and cappuccino lover, have a generous budget and do not mind relinquishing full control over the brewing process, then the super-automatic espresso machines are for you.

These machines can do everything for you— from milk steaming to micro-foaming. You can even adjust the setting in order to create minor tweaks to your brew. So that every time you press the button, you will get exactly the same brew!

You usually do not get that in coffee shops since every barista uses a slightly different technique in creating their coffees, especially lattes and cappuccinos. For consistency of texture and flavor, super-auto machines are the best.

Another great feature of these machines is the micro-foam they produce. You simply cannot replicate the velvety and smooth texture of the froth that a super-auto machine using regular milk frothers.

2. Semi-Automatic Machines

If you’re tight n budget, and you already have a decent barista skill or just want a mix of convenience and control, then a semi-automatic espresso machine should give that to you.

A semi-automatic machine comes with 3 advantages:

• Flexibility: It allows you to customize your drink
• Reliability: It will not let you down when you needed it most
• Price: Affordable and mid-range price tags for most coffee lovers

Also, if latte and cappuccino art is your thing, then semi-automatic machines are perfect.

The only thing you need to consider with semi-autos is the number of drinks they can create. If you wish to create several cappuccinos and lattes at a time, then look for one that has 2 boilers— one for steaming milk and one for espresso.

A single boiler machine is fine if you only need to create cappuccino or latte for yourself, however, it will be too slow if you want to serve multiple drinks to your guests.

What Makes the Best Latte And Cappuccino Maker? 5 Things To Consider

When buying the best ate and cappuccino machine, there are very important considerations you need to check. This is to make sure that you do not get an inappropriate device which does not suit your need. Here are some of the considerations you should check before making a purchase.

1. Easy to Use

Sure, it may look simple when the barista does it. However, once you are the one controlling those control keys, levers and whatnot, you will probably wish that you bought a more user-friendly latte and cappuccino machine.

If you are new to making cappuccinos and lattes, never fool yourself that you can try the more advanced model from the beginning.

Oh, and by the way, ease of use also means ease of cleaning. IT should not take about forever just to take the machine apart, washing everything and putting it back together. A complicated cleaning process typically results in giving up on using the machine entirely.

2. Size

You also need to figure out where you are going to put your new latte and cappuccino machine. Is it an additional kitchen appliance that satisfies your specialty coffee cravings or is it going to replace your old coffee maker?

Think about this for a second.

This is because you need to make sure that you have enough space for it in your kitchen, particularly if you plan on using it to create creamy lattes and cappuccino every single day!

3. Reservoir Size

Wait, let me rephrase that:

How many people want your coffee?

You need to choose a tank size depending on the answer. Larger reservoirs simply mean fewer refills. 

And trust me that when it is finally time to show off your newly discovered barista skills in front of your guests and friends, a substantial reservoir is truly a life-saver.

In terms of cleaning and maintenance, I would also like to point out that removable water tanks are a big plus!

4. Speed

Choose a latte and cappuccino machine which can work according to your desired speed. This is quite important, particularly in a busy environment where you will need a machine that will work at a faster rate when you are late for work.

5. Budget

So, how much are you willing to spend to hone your barista skills and start creating your own lattes and cappuccinos?

Prices vary drastically, depending on the model and features of the machine— from around a hundred dollars to a thousand. So, where do your budget limit fall?

Here’s the thing though

I do not recommend letting the cost of the machine be the primary factor of your purchase. Even if you chose a lower end latte and cappuccino machine, you can always make sure that it has at least a couple of crucial features that you want. Otherwise, you will probably just regret purchasing it in the first place.

The Top 5 Best Latte and Cappuccino Machines

#1: Mr. Coffee Café Barista Cappuccino and Latte Maker

Via Amazon.com

Quality
Price
Our rating

This entry level cappuccino and latte maker eliminates all the guesswork that goes into steaming your own milk since the machine already does it by itself. Everything about this machine is automatic and all you need to do s to make sure that all the needed ingredients are in place, press the appropriate button an wait for your latte or cappuccino.

Simplicity, it the right term for this machine. Just fill the water tank, the milk tank if you plan on making a cappuccino or latte, put your coffee in the ground baskets, click a button to choose what you are making and that’s it! You will be making lattes, cappuccinos, and espresso in just a few seconds.

It also has a large 55 oz. the reservoir that allows you to brew one cup from another without refilling the tank. Also, it can be easily removed for refilling and cleaning. Cleaning is also automatic with this machine with is Programmed Cleaning Cycle.

What We Like

• Dedicated buttons for making latte, cappuccino, and espresso
• Integrated milk frother
• Best value for the price
• Self-cleaning
• Double-shot capacity
• Larger reservoir
• Completely automated

What We Don't Like

• Lacks personalization
• Needs priming for optimal performance
• Milk frother can create a bit of mess
• Water temperature is not consistent

#2: DeLonghi Magnifica XS Cappuccino and Latte Machine

Via Amazon.com

Quality
Price
Our rating

The DeLonghi Magnifica XS offers you the Italian versatility and expertise packed in this elegant model! This compact espresso, latte and cappuccino machine has a stainless drip tray, water tank, and ground bins which slide out to the front of the machine. Its 60 ounces water tank is removable and ground bins can hold up to 14 single espressos.

It has a professional burr grinder with a total of 13 adjustable settings that grinds fresh beans every time in order to ensure freshness. It has an adjustable manual Cappuccino system that mixes milk and steam in order to create thick and long lasting foam.

Easy to use, you only need to adjust the menu settings for temperature, cup size and coffee strength and the machine will take care of the rest! The Magnifica XS also self-adjusts for a single or two shots of espresso and brings consistent brewing every time!

What We Like

• Small size
• Easy to use control panel
• Large water reservoir
• Built-in coffee beans grinder
• Heats up fast
• Allows personalization and adjustments

What We Don't Like

• Can be quite loud
• Cleaning of steam wand is a pain

#3: Breville BES870XL Barista Express

Quality
Price
Our rating

The Breville Barista Express is among the favorite latte and cappuccino maker on this list. If you really want something that is close to professional so you can create some latte and cappuccino art and be a true home barista, this machine is the right one for you!

It is a feature-rich coffee maker with just a small footprint so that it does not take up too much of your valuable counter space. With a 67 oz. removable water tank, you do not need to frequently refill it after every few cups. Featuring a built-in conical burr grinder, you can grind beans and also choose both the grind dose and size.

The machine comes with digital temperature control in order to ensure that you always get a precise espresso extraction. And there is also an auto purge function which helps ensure optimal extraction. In terms of latte making, its 360-degree swivel steam wand is a joy to use since it makes milk steaming effortless.

What We Like

• Removable drip tray
• Comes with all the necessary equipment for latte art
• Lot of settings and options
• Makes precise extraction
• Great water tank capacity
• Easier and quick cleanup

What We Don't Like

• The grinder can sometimes be messy
• Build quality is bit flimsy

#4: Gaggia 14101 Classic Latte and Cappuccino Maker

Via Amazon.com

Quality
Price
Our rating

If you tend to make a lot of coffee every day, then the 72 ox water tank capacity of this latte and cappuccino maker from Gaggia should be perfect for you! Other than having the largest capacity among our latte and cappuccino reviews, this espresso machine is well-built with sturdy stainless steel housing and commercial components such as the 58mm portafilter that makes it durable and longer-lasting.

Frothing milk for cappuccinos and lattes is also super easy, thanks to the efficient Pannarello wand which can also be used for dispensing hot water. Featuring a dual boiler, this coffee maker can heat water faster than most espresso machines, making it ready to brew in under 5 minutes and ready to steam in 20 seconds.

Operating is also super easy with user-friendly rocker switches. The machine itself is easy to assemble. And if that is not enough, Gaggia also provided a very clear installation instruction manual for your convenience.

What We Like

• Simple yet functional design
• Easy to assemble
• Large water reservoir
• Durable housing and components
• Faster heating time
• Easy to use control
• Easy and quick milk frothing

What We Don't Like

• Unable to brew carafe sized beverages
• Cheap plastic steam wand

#5: Nespresso Inissia Espresso Maker

Via Amazon.com

Quality
Price
Our rating

Lightweight, compact, tiny footprint and fully equipped with ergonomic handles, the Nespresso Inissia fits perfectly into any interior design and is available n different colors to find the right one for your kitchen counter.

With this machine, you do not need to wait for it to warm up. In a single touch and less than 25 seconds, the water will reach the ideal temperature in order to create 9 cups of coffees with its 24 oz. water tank capacity. And you can even adjust the cup size with its 2 programmable buttons— Lungo and Espresso.

It offers great barista-style tasting, thanks to its single-touch operation and patented extraction system that delivers up to 19 bar pressure. It has a folding cup tray that can accommodate tall recipe glasses and used capsule container can hold at least 9 – 11 capsules. Energy-efficient, this latte, and cappuccino machine automatically switch off after 9 minutes in order to save energy.

What We Like

• Energy saving
• Colorful and compact design
• 2 programmable buttons
• High-pressure pump
• Fast heating time
• Folding cup tray for larger cup sizes
• Affordable

What We Don't Like

• Consistent drips after brewing

The Crema-Maker King

Taking everything that a latte and cappuccino machine should have, I must say that the winner of this roundup would be…

Breville BES870XL Barista Express!

A favorite, this latte and cappuccino maker unleashes the barista in you and allows you to master the art of latte and cappuccino arts! It is compact and comes with a decent water tank so you do not have to refill it every now and then! Oh, and the built-in burr grinder is pretty useful, too! And yes, it is super easy to use and clean!

Creamy Thoughts

Smooth and creamy coffee drinks are definitely one of life’s little pressure. Cappuccino and latte make even the most stressful or lazy day manageable and a bit sweet! And with the best latte and cappuccino maker at your disposal, you can always get your hand on sweet lattes or frothy cappuccinos without standing on long lines, ever again!

I hope you find this article helpful. If you have questions or suggestions, feel free to voice it out and hit up the comment section below!

Until then, have a sweet and smooth day!

The post Best Latte and Cappuccino Machines 2019: Top 5+ Recommended appeared first on Cooky Mom.

27 Refreshingly Flavored Water Drinks To Cool You Down This Hot Summer Season

Summer!

It has come again when temperatures start to hit over a hundred degree! And with such sweaty and hot temperature, it is important that you stay hydrated!

And other than jumping on a large swimming pool to keep your skin hydrated and your body refreshed from the summer heat, drinking water should keep your insides fresh and cool!

But plain ‘ol water is boring!

Spice things up and challenge your taste buds by adding some herbs, vegetables and fresh fruits, and of course, a lot of iceeee!

If you’ve never made a flavored water, then I have compiled here some of the best recipes out there! So, make, drink and stay hydrated!

27 Invigorating Flavored Water Drinks To Try

1. Basil And Lemon

If you never tried growing your own basil, let me tell you one thing— that stuff grows like crazy in the heat! This means that you will have a basil garden during summer, ready for some basil flavored water drink!

Although lemon water taste fun, adding basil on lemon water adds more taste and unique touch to quench your thirst away!

2. Lime And Strawberries

Who doesn’t love strawberries? And although strawberry season starts early and ends pretty quickly (which is so heartbreaking), if you have frozen some of these delicious goodies or can find some in your local store during summer, it adds a nice zing with lime! Totally thirst-quenching!

3. Kiwi And Orange

What a refreshing and delicious way to start your morning! But, let’s be honest here, the addition of kiwis and oranges to water at any time of the day sounds so utterly delicious! It will make your thirsty just thinking about it!

4. Lemon And Cucumber

This combination is a favorite at Williams-Sonoma. With thin slices, it makes a cute and adorable drink that is refreshingly delicious!

But, instead of searching for the nearest Williams-Sonoma, just get some lemon and cucumber, slice thinly and enjoy a sip at dinner or any time of the day!

5. Lemon And Honey

I know we’re talking about cold water for this summer season, however, this recipe is the best for the days that you are feeling under the weather, thanks to sore throat.

Just warm the water and honey in the microwave for at least 2 minutes and add some lemon. Let it cool until drinkable. This is a simple recipe, but works really amazing!

6. Mint And Blueberries

Mint gives a hint of added coolness in the mouth. While blueberries give the touch of sweetness. Using these two goodies create a unique and interesting taste that helps you cool down at 12 noon while satisfying your sweet tooth!

7. Ginger, Cucumber, And Mango

This recipe offers a unique taste but is great with digestion. Got an upset tummy that you can’t stand or don’t want to use Pepto Bismol? Why don’t you try this good immune booster drink with the powerful ginger making the tummy ache go away.

8. Basil And Strawberries

The tartness of basil combines with the sweetness of the strawberries is like tickling your taste buds when you start sipping. An added benefit to this recipe is that they appeal to the eyes as well!

9. Lemon, Ginger, And Cucumber

You might want to stock more cucumbers this summer. It makes sense since cucumber is 95% water with the peel on.

Want more? This recipe is an anti-inflammatory and can be used to detox. So, if you are struggling with either, this water recipe might help. Plus, the high amount of water gives you more energy!

10. Cucumbers, Raspberries, And Grapes

Combining these three together will help with your desire to get some sugar. I think maybe part of the reason we want sugar so badly is due to the fact that we crave flavor and sugar offers us a sweet flavor.

So, without even adding any sweet stuff in this recipe, you can increase the sweet flavor without compromising your waistline from the excess sugar in your drinks.

11. Mango And Blood Orange

It may have a scary name, but blood orange makes your drink extra colorful and gives a unique tartness to the drink. And if you prefer something that has a little acidic taste, add some mango for a hint of sweetness.

12. Mint And Lemon

Have you ever heard that drinking lemon water before bed and in the morning is a good idea? This is because it gives you a metabolism boost. And I surely mentioned before that water keeps us energized. Oh, and the mint cools you down— perfect for summertime!

13. Watermelon

This is a sweet, fun one to add in a blender. Just like cucumbers, watermelons are called “water”melon for a reason— they also contain 95% water.

Sweet and yummy, you only need to add refrigerated watermelon slices and water to the blender and make some refreshing watermelon slushies!

14. Raspberry And Lemon

If you are craving for lemonade with a taste of sweetness without extra sugar, this is a great g-to drink! You will absolutely love the combination of raspberry and lemon together while working your tan!

15. Mint And Peaches

I recommend this recipe with sparkling water!

Try adding it to a wine glass, and even though it is water, you feel very sophisticated and truly enjoy the amazing experience!

16. Peaches With A Hint Of Vanilla

Oh, my dear sweet peaches! These are arguably one of the most favorite summer treats! Slicing them up, putting them in the fridge for a few hours and adding them to water with a tiny splash of vanilla is a great way to up your water intake and satisfy your sweet cravings!

17. Lime And Cherry

Cherry Limeade without sugar, anyone?

Consider them out of stock! Cutting cherries in half and add sparkling water will give you a truly satisfying and invigorating drink while lounging on one of the pool benches.

18. Lavender And Lemon

Whoever thought about adding this flower to your drinks?

I won’t lie, it’s something that I am still getting used to. But, I can say that it is not that bad, just quite different, if you never tried it before. But different is good!

The lavender offers a very mild but distinct taste. If you are up for something not in the norm and is totally different and creative, then I highly recommend this one.

19. Orange, Lime, And Lemon

This three is a good drink combination for a treat anytime. With lots of citruses added to your water— it gives a tang and sweet taste deliciousness all in one.

20. Vanilla And Orange

Adding vanilla extracts to orange water gives it an orange creamsicle taste that makes it a great morning treat of afternoon sweet snack after a tiring swim.

21. Apple Cinnamon Water

This is a perfect drink during very hot weather. The only thing about this recipe is that it has an extra step. You need to infuse your water for eight or more hours and strain it using a cheesecloth or tea-towel. This can be skipped if you’re okay with tiny chunks of cinnamon floating around.

If not (like me), then you need to separate and re-add the apples later.

22. Fennel And Orange

Uh-huh! You’ve read that right! I said fennel! And I know your eyebrows are meeting halfway, thanks to the smell. And although fennel smells like black licorice, it tastes so amazing!

So, if you are one of the few who likes the smell of black licorice in every sip, then I highly recommend this one. Otherwise, choose something else.

23. Lime And Blackberries

Blackberries are yummy! Kids love to devour them in one go!

Why not add those goodies to water and make your kids a sweetly tart and refreshing treat to keep them hydrated this summer? Who knows they might really love it and ask for one more glass of this refreshing drink!V

24. Blueberries And Strawberries

This one is fun and, oh so sweet! Oh, and patriotic, indeed! It seems like all major holidays during summertime are themed around patriotism from Labor Day, Fourth of July as well as Memorial Day.

So, what more fun ways to show your spirit while sipping deliciousness in this patriotic-colored goodies!

25. Cinnamon, Lime, And Strawberry

This recipe is supposed to be one of those “fat burning” drinks. Thanks to cinnamon which helps in good digestion. It is delicious, tasty, sweet and tangy without added sugar.

26. Basil, Lime, And Cucumber

This one is much different since most of our recipes offer different colors! And different colors means it offers more photochemical. However, sometimes having an infused water with the same shade or color adds a sense of dimension that you do not get from multi-colored drinks.

And they pretty good for the body too!

27. An Everything Drink

The best way to end this article is to tell you that all of this depends on what you like and your taste buds.

Most of these recipes are just wacky “I have a bunch in the fridge and garden anyways” recipe that has turned really well and leave me and my family asking for more!

Try something out of the ordinary like lavender, cinnamon, and lime or go with something simpler such as lemon and strawberries.

Oh, and never forget to be creative with your summer drinks! Add blended fruit to ice cube trays and add the ice cubes to water for an immediate effect of flavors. Or, if you want some crushed slushy treat, the blender will be your friend, combining frozen or cold herbs, vegetables, and fruit to your water!

Whatever it is, it is up to you to choose!

The post 27 Refreshingly Flavored Water Drinks To Cool You Down This Hot Summer Season appeared first on Cooky Mom.

How Long Do Macarons Last? A Sweet Guide and Preserving Tips

Have you tried the little bundles of delight?

And by that I mean those little colorful, burger-like sweets offering multiple variations that will tingle your taste buds— namely macarons!

No?

Well, you’re in for a treat!

Warning:

What you might just learn for today might push you to the local store, taking up boxes by boxes of macaron, only to have leftovers.

But, not to worry though, we also got your back— that in case you got a bit hyper on buying these sweet delights, you are also well-informed on how long they last and how you can properly store them so that their deliciousness last.

But, first…

Is it the macaron you are thinking about?

MacarOn or MacarOOn?

If you think it’s just a matter of spelling, then you are completely wrong.

You see, although they are both delicacies, macarons (pronounced as mack-a-rohn) are very much different than macaroons (pronounced as mack-a-roon).

How so?

Macaroons are small meringue cakes made of shredded coconut and condensed milk. Its shape may vary and the traditional detail of macaroon design is that they are usually dipped in chocolate.

The macaron that we are talking about, on the other hand, looks like a small hamburger (a sweet hamburger, if you’d ask me). It is made of icing sugar, egg whites and almond meal. Typically, it comes with a variety of fillings such as cream cheese, chocolate fondue, and fruit jams in between two-colored cookies.  

Featuring a crispy outside and soft and smooth filling inside, macarons are mildly moist and quickly melts in your mouth.

Where And When Macarons Appeared?

A French dictionary, Larousse Gastronomique, dates the creation of these sweet bundles of joy to the year 1971 in a convent near Cormery France. However, some traced its French debut back to the arrival of pastry chefs whom Catherine de’ Medici brought with her from Italy in the year 1533 upon her marriage with Henry II King of France.

In any case, it wasn’t until the year 1972 when macarons gained popularity in France, when 2 Carmelite nuns asking for asylum during the French Revolution, decided to bake and sold macarons to support themselves. Those macarons were just a simple combination of sugar, egg whites, and ground almonds, without flavors or filling. Just a hundred percent biscuit.

The macarons of today were created during the early 20^th century when Pierre Desfontaines of the famous pâtisserie Ladurée decided to join together 2 macaron shells and squeezing in a flavored ganache which is a layer of jam or buttercream.

How Long Do Macarons Last?

So, if you ever experienced a situation where you stare at all the yummy macarons you bought or baked, thinking how your estimate has gone out of the box, you might be wondering how long will they last?

I’ve got some bad news:

Macarons do not have the longest shelf life. They can get spoiled easily when left at room temperature. As such, I recommend that you consume any macaron that is left in the pantry within the day.

Because of its rather short lifespan, macarons are not exactly a suitable dessert for garden parties. Macarons with chocolate buttercream filling, in particular, can quickly melt when exposed to the high temperatures of the great outdoors.

Though, I got some good news for you:

If you really can’t consume all the macarons for the day, you can always store it in the fridge. They should stay fresh for 3 – 4 days.

But… Longer than that and these yummy desserts will start to lose its freshness and get all crumbly.

What About Freezing?

If you get super hyped that you bought or baked hundreds of macarons with only you to eat those (which seems highly unlikely), I still got some good news for you!

Macarons can be stored on the freezer and stay in good shape for at least 3 months.

How To Store Macarons?

So, if you plan on storing the macarons in the fridge or freezing them for dessert supply, an airtight container is required. It should help the macarons maintain its form, do not lose the ridges and prevent the biscuits from absorbing the filling.

I suggest that you use a plastic or glass container for this purpose. Also, make sure that the container is dry and clean. The last thing you want is macarons that are too soft to enjoy.

Some people also use ziplock bags. However, the problem with this storage solution is that the macaron shell can easily break apart when it bumps or get stuck with other heavy food items in the fridge. Still, you can use ziplock, just make sure that it will not get crushed by other items on the fridge.

When storing macarons, layer or line up the macarons in the container. Usually, you should place a parchment paper in between. Don’t even think about using wax paper since the macarons will stick on it.

Also, it is important that you place the macarons somewhere in the middle or at the back of the fridge or freezer to avoid fluctuating temperatures. Give the container a little space and do not place anything large or heavy near it.

Eating Frozen Macarons

So, after a while, you started craving for macarons and remembered those goodies hidden away in your freezer.

There’s no need to re-heat frozen macarons. Once you are ready to eat them, just pull out the container and set it on the counter for about 30 minutes. You only need to allow the macarons to come to room temperature before eating or serving them.

In case you only want to eat or serve a portion of what is inside the container, just take out what you want and hurriedly put the container back to the freezer or fridge.

Sweet Thoughts

Macarons are amazing sweet delights that offer an endless variety of fillings and challenges your taste buds. Although they do not really last that long when left at room temperature, I’m sure that its sweetness and heavenly, melt-in-the-mouth yumminess, guarantees that there won’t be leftovers anytime soon!

Do you have any questions or recommendations? Voice it out and fire up the comment section below.

Until then, have a very sweet day!

The post How Long Do Macarons Last? A Sweet Guide and Preserving Tips appeared first on Cooky Mom.

How Many Calories Does A Peanut Butter Sandwich Have?

Fact:

Americans spend around $800 million every year on peanut butter and this is a famous food served and eaten in 90% of American households.

I mean, why not?

It is one of the least expensive and best sources of protein that you can find. Plus, it is yummy, creamy and nutty at the same time!

However, since peanut butter sandwiches are typical go-to snacks of most people, have you ever wondered how many calories does it actually have?

This delicious snack usually finds itself on our tables that we just can’t help munching on level-by-level of peanut butter sandwiches, only to wonder whether if it is too much than our waists can handle.

A typical weight conscious-people thing— counting calories and the fear of gaining weight.

So, I did some investigation on this and find out more about peanuts butter sandwich nutritional facts, and of course, the conscious question of how much calories does it have.

But, first!

Peanut Butter: What Is It And How Is It Made?

A well-loved ingredient all around the world, peanut butter is a typical food in households in Australia, Africa, and the US. It was first discovered and patented in the late 19^th century.

Essentially, peanut butter is a spread or a paste made from the ground bits of roasted peanuts and usually with added hardened vegetable oil or emulsifiers, salts, and sweeteners (typically white sugar but some also use coconut palm sugar, agave syrup or dried cane).

Peanut butter varies in flavor, intensity, and nutritional profile, depending on what ingredients t contains besides peanuts— obviously— and how it is made. It can be sweet, savory or salty— offering a delight on your taste buds. Peanut butter can be used to create baked goods like cookies and cakes, frostings and desserts, rich smoothies, salad dressing or just pair it with your favorite bread— a delicious peanut butter sandwich!

Facts About Peanuts: Peanut Butter’s Crucial Ingredient

Obviously, peanut is the main ingredient in your typical peanut butter. And even though they have similar nutritional facts and taste to almonds and walnut, did you know that they are legumes and not nuts, despite the “nut” in their name.

Peanut butter is also a good source of nutrients and it is actually great for our overall health. Some of these include:

• Potassium and protein which can help lower the risk of heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure
• Rich in vitamin E and antioxidants
• Magnesium and healthy fats for good muscles and bones growth
• Fiber for good bowel health and has been noted to reduce the risk of colon cancer
• Great for hunger suppression
• Loaded with unsaturated (mostly linoleic and oleic acids) and saturated fats (mostly palmitic acid)
• High content of dietary minerals like zinc, copper, magnesium, phosphorus, and manganese.
• Contains over 19 percent if the daily value of Vitamin B6, B3, B5, B1, vitamin E, dietary fibers and protein.

However, even though they are a real treasury of benefits to your overall health, I know you are well aware that they are also considered as one of the major culprits for allergies.

Different Types of Peanut Butter and Calorie Amount

There are two main types of peanut butter: smooth and crunchy (or chunky).

The first one contains uniformly ground peanuts with a creamy texture, and the second one features coarsely-ground peanuts with a crunchy or chunky texture.

Some peanut butter is made only made of fresh ground peanuts with or without salt. Commercially made ones may also contain only peanuts and salt, while some has added hydrogenated vegetable oils, sugar, and more additives.

In summary, there are various peanut butter ingredients, so you will need to read the label before you purchase. However, the best peanut butter comes with only peanuts and salt, without hydrogenated fats, sugar, and other additives.

Calories vary depending on their ingredients.

Here’s a look:

• Smooth peanut butter (with or without salt) = 588 calories/100 grams
• Smooth peanut butter (reduced fats) = 520 calories/100 grams
• Chunky peanut butter (mineral and vitamin fortified) = 593 calories/ 100 grams
• Chunky peanut butter (with salt) = 589 calories/100 grams
• Reduced sodium peanut butter = 633 calories/100 grams
• Reduced-fat peanut butter = 520 calories/100 grams

Types of Peanut Butter Sandwich and Calorie Amount

Since we love to experiment on our food, we got a pretty long list of peanut butter sandwiches. From the most basic ones with only peanut butter squeezed on bread to the more exotic ones which contain whatever you can think of (so long as it satisfies your taste buds.)

This is why calories in a peanut butter sandwich vary and depend hugely on the content. Typically, peanut butter sandwiches are made from peanut butter, bread, and most of the time with jam or jelly— your usual morning PB&J sandwich.

Some people even add bananas, dried fruits, honey, maple syrup, chocolate, or just about anything in your pantry that can go well with peanut butter and bread or depend on individual taste, which add to the total amount of calories you get on the sandwich.

In general, the serving size for peanut butter is 2 tablespoons. That is around 190 calories for both chunky and smooth peanut butter. The usual bread chosen for peanut butter sandwiches is white with around 74 calories per slice, whole wheat bread with around 81 calories per slice, wheat bread with around 77 calories per slice.

Jelly, maple syrup, or honey contains around 60 calories per tablespoon and if you want some bananas added, a medium one contains an average of 100 calories.

With all the approximation mentioned, the typical peanut butter sandwich with 2 slices of bread ranges from 330 – 430 calories! Not that much, for such a yummy treat.

Buttery Thoughts

Peanut butter is super tasty and versatile! They make a great snack or blend with just about anything to create yummy snacks and meal. And now that you know just how much calories a typical peanut butter sandwich has, I’m sure you will never think twice munching on your peanut butter sandwich again!

BUT…

For the weight-conscious, peanut butter can still be enjoyed, but with mindfulness.

I hope you find this article helpful. If you are itching for a question or want to share a peanut butter recipe, feel free to light up the comment section below.

Until then, spread, enjoy and have a yummy, creamy, buttery day!

The post How Many Calories Does A Peanut Butter Sandwich Have? appeared first on Cooky Mom.