Kitchen Fact: Can You Freeze Coleslaw?

Coleslaw— one of the most popular recipes for salad— is relished by a lot of people across the world, irrespective of their gender or age. Coleslaw is a very enticing and appetizing dish on hot, summer days, or just when you crave some crunchy yet healthy snacks.

But, do you know what the best part about coleslaw is?

It is very, very simple to prepare!

And sometimes, because of this, you enjoyed making too much that you shredded an entire humongous cabbage and a bunch of carrots only to find out that it is more than enough for your family.

Now, what do you do?

Should you throw it out, (which I’m telling you right now, is not a good thing!)  or freeze it?

But, wait!

Can you even freeze it?

Let’s find out!

What is Coleslaw?

Coleslaw is one of the most common side dishes that is served in major fast food chains. It consists of shredded carrots and cabbage and best partnered with various sauces and dressings. Can be served as a lightweight dish of refreshing appetizer to heavy meals like meats and barbecue.

Coleslaw came from the Dutch term “koosla” meaning cabbage salad. It is said that this salad recipe was mentioned in a recipe book that was published way back in 1770, entitled “The Sensible Cook: Dutch Foodways in the Old and New World”. The book was said to feature a salad recipe that had thin strips of cabbage mixed with melted butter, oil, and vinegar.

Coleslaw has so much variation:

In Germany, apples or onions are usually added to their coleslaw recipe. The UK version of this salad had onions and carrots. While in the US, mayonnaise and buttermilk substitutes are also used.

Is It OK To Freeze Coleslaw?

So about the bygone problem— can you actually freeze coleslaw?

The answer?

Yes, you can!

But, there is a condition!

You can freeze your leftover coleslaw as long as it does not have any mayonnaise!

BUT, WHY?!

Well, it is mainly because of the mayonnaise. Mayonnaise just does not freeze very well. It tends to separate after being frozen and you would end up with a dressing which is watery. Plus, your coleslaw will also lose its crunchiness.

Refrigerating coleslaw is not a bad idea either, especially if you are going to eat it the next day or after just a few days. When properly stored coleslaw left in the fridge will be safe for consumption for 3 to 5 days.

Proper Freezing and Thawing of Dry Coleslaw

Freezing coleslaw is very much easy. You only need 2 steps in order to properly freeze coleslaw leftovers:

• Step 1: Put the shredded carrot and cabbage mix into a freezer bag. Remove the excess air and seal the container tightly.
• Step 2: Label the date of freezing so that you will not forget. Keep in mind that raw cabbage can last for up to 18 months while raw carrots can go until 12 months in the freezer.

Now, after freezing your coleslaw, you wish to defrost and eat it. What do you do?

• Step 1: Remove the bag containing the coleslaw from the freezer and place it in the refrigerator.
• Step 2: You can leave it for a couple of hours or overnight for best results.

When the coleslaw is thawed out, it should be crunchy and cool. Now, all you need to do is to prepare it for serving as well as stirring dressings and the ingredients together.

Proper Freezing and Thawing of Coleslaw with Oil and Vinegar-Based Dressings

Coleslaw mixtures that use vinegar and oil-based dressings usually have the best freezing and thawing process

Examples of vinegar and oil-based dressings are lemon juice, celery seed, and mustard seed. Any of these types mixed with cabbage and carrots will freeze better than mayonnaise-based coleslaw.

The freezing process of coleslaw with oil and vinegar-based serving is pretty much like freezing dry coleslaw. You put the salad in a freezer bag, remove excess air and seal the container tightly. However, the only difference is that coleslaw with dressings should be eaten within a few months, unlike dry coleslaw that can take a year and still remain edible.

Thawing coleslaw with oil and vinegar-based is pretty much the same with dry ones. You just remove the bag from the freezer and put it in the refrigerator for a couple of hours or overnight for best results.

Beyond Freezing: Alternative Ways to Use Coleslaw Leftovers

Apart from freezing your coleslaw leftovers, there are other yummy ays in making sure that all shredded cabbage and carrots never see the insides of the freezer. Here are some of them:

1. Add It To Your Sandwiches

Tired of same old crunchy coleslaw for a snack? Well, it is a great idea to use it as a spread on your grilled sandwiches. The texture and flavor of coleslaw can enhance the overall appeal of the meat and will surely make your sandwich both delicious and healthy. You can just grill the meat before adding the coleslaw.

2. Mix It With Tacos

Who doesn’t like tacos? They are crunchy and yummy and a great comfort food.

But, guess what?

Coleslaw and tacos are the best partners out there!

Together, tacos and coleslaw will do wonders for your tummy by satisfying your appetite with every bite you take.

One advice I could give you:

Try to add frozen coleslaw on top of warm tacos. The contrasting temperature will create the ultimate flavor you will surely enjoy!

3. Make It The Main Dish

Coleslaw can be added to meat and other vegetables like peas in order to create a delicacy that is worthy of being called the main dish! Smoked chicken quarters or frozen smoked salmon are both great choices that you can use.

Crunchy Thoughts

Now, you don’t have to worry about a bunch of shredded cabbage and carrot leftovers. You can most definitely freeze the crunchy duo and eat them when your cravings come back once again.

I hope you find this article helpful. If you have any questions or suggestion, or maybe a recipe for coleslaw leftovers, I’d love to hear it! Just hit the comment section below!

Until then, a crunchy day to you!

The post Kitchen Fact: Can You Freeze Coleslaw? appeared first on Cooky Mom.

Best Countertop Convection Oven Reviews 2018: Top 5+ Recommended

You might think that a regular oven is everything you will need for preparing meals.

Unless you are baking 15 pizzas for your kids and some bake Mac ‘n Cheese to fulfill your cravings. Or maybe some unexpected guest drop by and you need to cook that whole chicken somewhere in your fridge and still need to prepare some side dishes or maybe a bunch of pastries while they wait.

Think you can do that while maintaining your sanity?

I think you don’t!

Fortunately, there is an easier way out in such tormenting situations— the best countertop convection oven.

Understanding a Countertop Convection Oven

As a type of oven, a countertop convection oven can do the basic— broil, roast, bake, etc. Because it is a countertop model, it is definitely smaller than the traditional oven so it is easier to manage and fit almost every kitchen countertop.

Its convection feature only makes the unit more versatile since foods are cooked more evenly and much faster because of the very special design of its heating element.

The heating element will warm up the air within it to heat the food. The air will stay stagnant and the areas that are closer to the heating elements are typically hotter than the area at the center of the oven.

The heating elements are typically placed at the bottom, top and back of the unit. The fan circulates the air around the food and allows every area to reach a consistent temperature.

Furthermore, it eliminates the narrow layer of cool air which can surround the food and insulate it from the heat. The bottom and top of the food will cook just as well as the center, so it does not matter where you place the food item within the oven since food in all racks will cook at the same temperature.

The Benefits of a Countertop Convection Oven

1. It Saves Space

This is the most obvious benefit of a countertop convection oven. This type of oven is the best choice if you want a compact size for your kitchen. Countertop convection ovens are way smaller than conventional and traditional ovens and you can put it anywhere on the counter since you do not need to connect them to a gas line.

2. It Offers Convenience

A countertop convection oven also offers convenience. If you are cooking small meals, then it is best to get a countertop convection oven. If you are cooking large meals for the whole family, a countertop convection oven can also help you there and you do not need to buy an extra full-size oven.

3. It Saves Energy

Thanks to its smaller size, there will be less space to heat when cooking. That, in addition to the shorter cooking times when compared to traditional ovens, it only means that you can use less electricity than cooking the same meal in a traditional oven.

4. It Saves Time

It only takes around 20 minutes in order to cook a pound of meat in a traditional oven. However, a convection oven has the ability to cook the same pound of meat in just around 10 minutes.

There are types of convection oven which features a hot plate electric cooker on top. This gives you an extra option to reheat dish on top and save you much time while you cook some food inside the oven.

5 Factors to Consider When Purchasing a Countertop Convection Oven

Not all countertop convection ovens are made the same. Before you make a purchase, it is crucial that you take into account particular considerations in order to get only the best out there.

1. Energy Efficiency

Choose a countertop convection oven that is energy efficient. Check the unit’s energy and heat efficiency units. A good countertop convection oven only has small wattages while still providing temperatures which are relatively high.

2. Functions and Features

Another thing that comes to mind should be the specific features of the oven. These should heavily depend on the kinds of food that you usually cook.

Does it have multiple racks? Are they adjustable? Does it have a rotisserie setting? There are some countertop convection ovens that provide other functions like toasting, broiling, and baking.

So make sure that the one you’re “eyeing” has more features and functions to offer.

3. Size and Countertop Space

When buying a countertop oven, you need to consider its size and whether it will fit your countertop space. Therefore it is important that you measure the dimensions of your countertop space and the oven that you are planning to buy.

It is important that you are mindful of the precise dimensions of the free space you have in the kitchen in order to make sure that the unit will fit well.

When choosing a countertop convection oven, you need to make sure that its size should be able to accommodate the kinds of food that you usually heat, bake or cook in it. There are some ovens which are specifically designed to be small for small portions of foods. Then there are some which can be large that can fit a whole chicken and still able to accommodate any side dish.

4. Style and Appearance

When you buy a countertop convection oven, it is not just about the function. You also need to consider it design and style. Will it look good and blend well with your kitchen aesthetic? It is always a plus if you have a countertop convection oven with style and appearance that harmoniously blend with your kitchen.

5. Cleaning

Another thing you need to consider for the best countertop convection oven is how easy it is to clean. Ovens with removable racks and other parts which are dishwasher-safe make it quite easy to clean and maintain.

The Top 5 Best Countertop Convection Oven 2018

*Below, you'll find our more detailed reviews, but you can also click the links above to see current prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.

#1: BLACK + DECKER Extra Wide Convection Countertop Oven

Via Amazon.com

Quality
Price
Our rating

If you constantly need to cook, roast or bake large batch of food, then this extra wide countertop convection oven from BLACK + DECKER is the perfect choice for you! It has an extra wide interior that is specifically designed in order to fit 12” pizza, 8 slices of bread or 9x13” pans with handles meaning you can offer cooked meals straight from the oven to the table.

It has powerful convection heating which allows basic cooking method such as toasting, broiling, baking, and keeping food warm. Featuring a 60-minute timer, it has stayed on functionality for longer baking or cooking tasks. It also has a Dedicated Toast Timer function which allows predictable shade selection with every use, providing the perfect toast every time.

Its temperature dial settings have been calibrated in order to provide the expected results for most home recipes with its advanced heating elements. The manufacturer is also generous enough to provide broiling or baking pans well as a toasting rack which fits perfectly to make inserting and removing food easier. 

What We Like

• 60-minute timer
• Dedicated Toaster Timer
• Wide Interior
• Accommodate most pans with handles
• Includes toasting rack and baking pans

What We Don't Like

• Knobs are difficult to control
• Hard to clean
• Poor heating

#2: Oster Digital Countertop Convection Oven

Via Amazon.com

Quality
Price
Our rating

If you are looking for a reasonably priced countertop convection oven with no functions or features compromised for its price, then this Oster Digital Countertop Convection Oven is the best oven for you. 

It comes in a brushed stainless steel style with a transparent door. On its right side, it includes 3 handy dials. There are also digital controls which allow you to choose the precise temperature and cooking time. 

Moreover, it is the right size— 18x14x10”— that could easily fit any kitchen countertop without a problem. However, it also large enough to fit a whole chicken or a 12-inch pizza. This oven includes 2 rack positions for convenient multi-level cooking and 2 baking racks. It also has a 60-minute timer which automatically shuts off for saving energy. 

What We Like

• Digital display for easy operating
• Features several pre-programmed settings
• Affordable
• Compact design
• Large interior
• Allows multi-level cooking

What We Don't Like

• Needs a bit of learning
• Cools down real slow
• The outside gets hot when in use

#3: Oyama Turbo Convection Oven

Via Amazon.com

Quality
Price
Our rating

The Oyama Turbo Convection Oven is unlike regular turbo broilers. It grabbed a position in our list since it has fighting cards its functionality and features. As an oven, it can do the basic methods of cooking and more such as broiling, baking, roasting as well as grilling and even steaming.

It has a large capacity and comes with a 12-liter glass bowl. It also has easy to understand control dials which allow you to set the temperature and cooking time. Furthermore, it is quite easy to clean and maintain by just using water and mild soap. This countertop convection oven includes a lid stand, a pair of tongs, 2 wire cooking racks and recipe book.

What We Like

• Easy to use
• Comes with tall and short rack for cooking various kinds of foods
• Easy to clean
• Comes with 12-liter glass bowl

What We Don't Like

• Some food might be burnt on top

#4: Hamilton Beach Countertop Oven with Rotisserie and Convection

Via Amazon.com

Quality
Price
Our rating

The countertop oven from Hamilton Beach is a compact and energy-efficient convection oven which offers the same performance you will get with a full-size oven. This oven is small enough to fit any kitchen countertop, but it is also large enough to provide you with enough space for any type of meal.

This countertop convection oven is designed with both kitchen style and practicality in mind. In addition, it is filled with adaptable cooking potentials which range from broiling salmon and roasting a whole chicken or 5-pound pork to baking cookies and crisping cookies.

With this oven, you do not need to spend more time cooking separate meals. Moreover. It features adjustable and wide interior cooking racks that offer double the space for cooking multiple foods at once. It comes with 2 oven racks, a huge baking pan which is coated with enamel, a small baking pan, and a broil rack. Lastly, it features 4 pre-programmed settings: Convection, Bake, Broil, and Rotisserie.

What We Like

• Easy to read temperature and function dials
• Easy cleaning with nonstick interior
• Portable and convenient to use
• 4 pre-programmed settings
• Large capacity

What We Don't Like

• It does not have interior lights
• Needs at least 5 minutes to reheat
• The rotisserie motor movement is not smooth

#5: BLACK + DECKER Countertop Convection Oven

Via Amazon.com

Quality
Price
Our rating

Another unit from BLACK + DECKER, this particular countertop convection oven is a multifunctional oven which you can use to prepare and cook different kinds of foods in one go, thanks to its large capacity.

Featuring a curve interior, it allows you to cook a 12” pizza and a full-size casserole dish in one go. It has easy to understand buttons which allows you to select the precise heating temperature you need. It also displays the temperature with its easy to read digital panel.

This countertop convection oven features a 120-minute timer and also includes 2 racks for multi-level cooking. It also has one-touch functions which are designed for a no-fuss cooking. It is quite easy to clean, thanks to its non-stick interior and removable crumb tray which keeps your countertop tidy.

What We Like

• Cheap
• Removable crumb tray
• Curved and deep interior
• 120-minute timer
• Easy to read digital panel
• Pre-programmed settings

What We Don't Like

• The display is not backlit, making it difficult to read in low light
• The outside of the oven gets hot
• Lack of door hinges

Extra Tips: How to Properly Use a Countertop Convection Oven?

Once you have understood how a convection oven works, using it and cooking different kinds of foods is as easy as 1, 2, 3…

Here is a list of tips on how you can maximize the efficiency and flexibility that a countertop convection oven brings:

1. Reduce Temperature

With a convection oven, hot air circulates around the food. Therefore high temperatures can spread more easily. So, you should lower the temperature by about 20 to 25 degrees from the original recipe in order to prevent burning or overcooking.

2. Use the Correct Pans

The oven pans that you should use needs to be at least6 1 to 2 inches clear on all sides. Choose the ones with low or no sides as much as possible. This will allow better circulation of air, otherwise, the main function of convection will be forfeited. Choosing the right pan is crucial in order to further maximize the benefits of a countertop convection oven.

3. Reduce the Cooking Time

In general, convection ovens cook faster than traditional ovens. Therefore it is important that you reduce the cooking time. You can start by reducing about a third of the original recipe and just continue on cooking when the food item is not yet at its desired state. It is much better than getting burnt food.

4. Do Not Cover the Food

Airflow is a big part of a convection ovens cooking process. So, if a food is covered during the cooking process, then airflow will be blocked resulting to an uneven or slower cooking.

Extra Tips: Proper Cleaning and Maintenance of Countertop Convection Oven

A countertop convection oven is a true kitchen hero in baking, cooking, roasting and reheating foods at home. However, in terms of cleaning, it might demand so much effort and time in order to battle crumbs and greases.

Here are some tips which can help you keep your countertop convection oven shining and clean for optimal efficiency and longevity.

• In order to remove crumbs, you can gently shake to remove food particles
• ALWAYS unplug the oven when cleaning in order to avoid any unwanted accidents of electrocution
• Detach all removable parts like trays, pans, and racks. Spray these with all-purpose cleaner and gently scrub using a non-abrasive sponge. Rinse then wipe it or air dry.
• In order to get rid of grease buildup, you can use citrus oils. This method might not work efficiently as using chemical cleaners; however, it should give the countertop convection oven a refreshing zesty smell. This natural method should be great for regular maintenance:

• Put citrus peels on a pan (lemons and lime works best) and add water. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for at least 20 to 25 minutes only.
• If you do not have citrus peels. You can use lemon water as an alternative. Bake at 250 degrees Fahrenheit for at least 10 minutes. (Warning: A countertop convection oven might smoke, therefore it is ideal to keep the oven window open and the oven fan on.)
• Once you are done with either process, you can remove the pan and remove the grease. After the convection oven cooled off, you can start wiping the inside to remove grease.

The Countertop Convection Oven You Should Take Home

Among the 5 products I presented above, I highly recommend that you take home the… Hamilton Beach Countertop Oven with Rotisserie and Convection

Not only it is a convection oven, but it also has the option for a rotisserie function, a feature which is not present with the other models. Not only that, but it also has a compact design to fit any kitchen countertop, but it has a really large interior space which can accommodate multiple or large foods for faster and easier cooking.

Final Thoughts

In today’s busy world, cooking a lot of food can be time-consuming and no one wants that. Fortunately, kitchen appliances are becoming more and more advanced with every passing day. A countertop convection oven is quite useful these days since it makes cooking more efficient, more comfortable and quick. If you want to purchase one for your kitchen needs, then the products I have mentioned above will surely satisfy all your cooking needs.

I hope you find this article useful and informational! If you think I missed anything, feel free to voice your mind and fire up the comment section below. I would very much love to hear from you!

Until then, happy cooking!

The post Best Countertop Convection Oven Reviews 2018: Top 5+ Recommended appeared first on Cooky Mom.

Sweet Talk: Does Sugar Go Bad?

Sugar is one of the most basic kitchen components which can be found in every home! Its most common uses it to sweeten coffee, tea, and other drinks. Sugar is also largely used in baking and making sweet desserts that we always crave for after a hearty meal!

Because of this, you might worry on how long will it last and if it does go bad.

If you are that curious, then read on.

How Long Does It Last?

Most sugar you buy from the store will have a label that usually reads: “Best within 2 years”.

However, the shelf life of sugar is indefinite and does not come with an expiration date— meaning you can keep sugar for many years to come and could still be used after such time.

But do not take this ever so lightly. This only applies to properly store sugar.

Does Sugar Go Bad?

As I have said earlier, sugars have an infinite timeframe which only means, sugar does not expire. When properly stored, sugar does not spoil or go bad.

As a matter of fact, sugar is prized as a preservative since it does not support bacteria growth. For centuries, sugar has been used to preserve juices, jams, and other goodies.

But it can still go bad, in a different way!

1. In Terms Of Texture

Sugar loves water.

When sugar is exposed to moisture and is stored for a very long time, it clumps together and hardens. And rather than being separately granulated, sugar, when exposed to moist, will form various sizes of sugar balls.

However, you do not need to worry. Sugars with “bad” texture are still not bad as a sugar. It still has the sweetness and the clumps can be broken down into smaller granules as it was before.

Sugar clumping is quite normal if there is moisture in storage containers.

2. In Terms Of Contamination

Now, this one is a problem.

Sugar itself does not allow any bacteria to live on its crystals.

However, dust and other contaminating materials can accumulate your sugar during storage. And these factors can become the breeding ground for bacteria which can make parts of sugar to be contaminated or go bad.

However, the sugar itself can be saved if you remove the “contaminated” parts.

For instance

You bought a whole sack of sugar and the bottom part was accidentally contaminated by dirty water. Well, you can still use the top part since the bacteria cannot cross the sugar crystals.

Note

Contaminated sugar is very much different with clumped sugar. A contaminated sugar is already bad sugar which cannot be used anymore while clumped sugars can still be used and still have the sweet taste.

Furthermore, bugs that reach the sugar because of improper storing is another example of contamination. Although sugar does not allow bacteria growth, seeing a jar of sugar filled with bugs is unsightly and the next idea to come in mind would be throwing out all the sugar.

Bad, Rotten, or Spoiled Sugar: How To Tell?

Although sugar cannot turn bad, rotten or spoiled for a very long period of time, there are particular signs you can look for that will tell you if your sugar is not safe to use anymore.

You might want to look closely if there is a certain change in color or form over a particular period of time. Also, you might want to consider smelling the sugar if there is an unwanted odor. You can also do a simple test by using a small spoon and taste the sugar to know if the flavor is still there.

However, the biggest thing that you need to look at is the presence of bugs and insects in the container. This is a great sign that the sugar is not safe to be used anymore.

Properly Storing Sugar For Extending Shelf Life

There are different types of sugar. However, whatever type of sugar you might have, storing is pretty much the same for all types.

You need to store sugar in a cool and dry place like a specialized container or a cupboard. Keep it away from extreme temperatures such as stoves and microwaves, since it can cause condensation to form in the containers, thus hardening the sugar.

And if you are thinking about storing it in the fridge, then you better stop!

The 2 main things that you need to protect your sugar from are pests and moisture.

The fridge allows moisture to accumulate, so it is a big no-no. The best place to store sugar is in air-tight containers. This should prevent sugars from hardening and clumping together.  Other than preventing moisture, this should also prevent the sugar from picking aromas from other food.

Pests can also become a problem if they reach your sugars. Anyone who accidentally left a few granules of sugar knows how easy it becomes quickly overrun by ants. Storing sugar in a bug-free container should make it easier to keep your kitchen neat and clean.

Furthermore, there are some home cooks who add a piece of bread or marshmallow to stored sugar in order to keep it from hardening and clumping together. If you do this, just make sure to replace the bread often so that it does not become moldy.

Sweet Thoughts

So, does sugar go bad?

Yes and no.

Yes, in terms of texture and contamination, and no if it properly sealed and stored.

Properly stored sugar can last forever, but I doubt that it will stay there for eternity. After all, sugar is the most common ingredient used to give sweetness in our life, right?

I hope you find this article useful. If you have any questions or suggestion, feel free to reach me through the comment section below.

Until then, have a very sweet day!

The post Sweet Talk: Does Sugar Go Bad? appeared first on Cooky Mom.

What Does Butternut Squash Taste Like?

If there is one thing that we quickly associate with winter then that is definitely squashes. For a very long time, the most popular type of squash was pumpkin, especially during Halloween season.

However, there is a relative newcomer that might just take over the throne— the Butternut Squash.

This type of squash has long been in the market for about half a century and is a favorite staple for winter meals. This winter squash is flavorful and packed with nutrients!

You might have seen it in populating the grocery store or in wet markets on sacks. But, did you ever wonder about what does butternut squash taste like?

Butternut Squash: What Is It?

Butternut Squash is a pear-shaped squash which has very few seeds, bright-orange flesh, and smooth cream-colored exterior.

Also known as gramma (mostly in New Zealand and Australia) or butternut pumpkin, this type of winter squash has been around for a very long time for humans to consume.

Contrary to popular belief, butternut squash is a fruit. As a matter of fact, all squash are, technically!

What Makes It Special?

So, what makes a butternut squash special?

Its nutrients, of course.

Butternut squash is a great source of Vitamin A. As a matter of fact, butternut squash has enough vitamin A in just a single serving in order to cover one’s daily needs. Other benefits that are associated with this winter squash are its contribution to weight loss and prevention of cold and cancer.

The butternut squash is a part of the Cucurbita family, known for its richness with important nutrients. Aside from the good amount of vitamin A, this winter squash also has more than half the recommended vitamin C intake and a good list of other vitamins and minerals including calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, vitamin E, and vitamin B6.

A single serving of butternut squash (around 7 ounces) contains 82 calories and only 0.007 ounces of fat. Other amazing benefits of this fruit are its high antioxidant load, helps in reducing inflammation and preventing various diseases, and boost the immune system.

Describing its Taste

And now, the real question:

What does butternut squash taste like?

Well, it has that “autumn” taste of pumpkin, but a lot sweeter. It is so sweet that most people even compare it with butterscotch, a confectionery made of butter and brown sugar. Other people see similarities with turnip and carrot. Butternut squash also has a nutty does, and in purees, it can taste a bit like sweet potatoes.

The nice thing about butternut squash is that it is not stringy, unlike those of pumpkin, making it a perfect ingredient for purees and soups.

Furthermore, its delicate taste combines really well with aromatic spices and herbs like tarragon, cinnamon, and its substitutes.

Choosing The Best Out Of The Bunch

If all this sweet-talking has caused your mouth to water and drool that you are very much ready to go to the nearest supermarket and get yourself a butternut squash for your meal, then you need to at least learn how to pick the best butternut squash, right?

Here are some few tips for you:

• When picking a butternut squash, feel its weight. A good butternut squash should feel heavy for its size.
• Inspect it over and make sure that its skin is clean.
• Look for any bruise marks.
• Check if it has cuts or punctures.
• Inspect for any brown frostbite scars

These tips might look naïve, however, if any of these requirements are not fulfilled, the longevity and texture of the squash can be disrupted. Moreover, some flaws like cuts and punctures allow bacteria inside the squash which can cause molds or some pests and insects might have penetrated the fruit.

Growing A Butternut Squash

Here’s the good news:

You can plant butternut squash in your backyards!

If you do not like buying fruits and vegetables in the market since you are worried about various insecticides and pesticides that might have been used in the growing process, then you can grow your own!

Here are some gardening tips for growing a butternut squash in your backyard:

1. Planting

When planting butternut squash, you need to wait for at least mid to late spring. The seeds will not germinate if the soil is still cold.

When planting, make sure to plants the seeds in hilled soils for better growing.

2. Add Compost

Butternut squash will need rich, well-draining soil in order to grow. If your garden soil is poor then you will need to mix a good amount of compost.

3. Inspect For Bugs

In case you live in a place where pests and insects are a constant problem, then you need to take necessary measures in order to protect your plants from infestation. There are various natural ways and methods you can try.

4. Keep The Soil Moist

Because butternut squash grows during the summer, you will need to water it every few days in order to make the soil moist enough. Also, try to avoid getting the leaves wet since it can cause powdery mildew and sunburn.

5. Wait

Be patient. Seeing the first fruit might be exciting but you need to wait for it to be fully ripe before you can pick them.

Press your nails to the surface to check if your butternut squash is ripe. When you are not able to make a dent in it, then it is ready for harvesting.

Peeling And Seeding

Peeling a butternut squash is quite a difficult task, thanks to its thick and tough skin. To do this, you will need a sturdy peeler or a very sharp knife in order to get rid of it.

• 1Cut off the stem end.
• 2Horizontally cut the squash in two.
• 3Peel the squash from the neck to the round base.
• 4Split it in half.
• 5Using a spoon, remove the fibrous flesh and seeds.
• 6Then cut to pieces on desired size.

Squashy Thoughts

All these squashy talks might leave you drooling over. I might have described how butternut squash tastes like, however, the best way to understand its taste is to get one for yourself and taste it.

If you have happens to like healthy food and have a sweet tooth then you will definitely not regret tasting this winter squash.

I hope you find this article helpful. If you have any questions or maybe a delicious butternut squash recipe, then feel free to share it with the rest of us!

Until then, have a squishy-squashy day!

The post What Does Butternut Squash Taste Like? appeared first on Cooky Mom.

What Do Scallops Taste Like? Understanding the Bivalve Goodness Under the Sea

Are you a seafood lover, like myself?

Maybe you have tried and enjoyed staple seafood dishes like octopus, squid, shrimp, lobster, oyster, salmon, cods and other goody catch from the sea. But, have you ever tried the “candy of the sea”, namely the scallops?

Even if you are just starting to love different seafood goodness or simply not a fan of seafood dishes, the appealing chunks of bivalve goodness is to die for!

With that, you might be wondering:

What do scallops taste like?

Well, allow me to describe the heavenly goodness to you!

But, first…

What are Scallops?

Scallops are mollusks with delicate and soft texture. And it is this particular quality of food that most people crave for, even for those who are not fond of seafood.

Another thing is that scallops have the most common shells that you can see out there. Those seashells that you might have spotted at the beach have probably come from these sea creatures.

Nutrient Facts

Scallops serve as a good source of protein and omega-3. Plus they do not have saturated fat, unlike meat. Scallops are low in calorie and you will be glad to know that a single gram of scallops only gives you 1 calorie.

Scallops are also rich in nutrients like:

• Magnesium
• Phosphorus
• Vitamin B12
• Iodine
• Zinc
• Choline
• Selenium

3 Varieties of Scallops

1. Sea Scallops

Sea scallops can be 2 inches in diameter large. The best thing about this variety of scallops is that they are always available throughout the year. This is why, among the 3 varieties, sea scallops are the most popular.

2. Bay Scallops

Bay Scallops are comparatively smaller than sea scallops. This variety is also much more aesthetically pleasing than sea scallops. However, they are only found from October to March.

3. Calico Scallops

This variety is only available in the month of December until May. Calico Scallops grow in the US Gulf coasts and Southern Atlantic coasts. The appearance of calico scallops is pretty much the same as the other two. The only difference is that their shells are perfectly sealed a slightly milder in terms of flavor.

What Do Scallops Taste Like?

And now the big question…

What do these bivalves taste like?

As I have mentioned earlier, scallops are called the “candy of the sea”. This is due to its unique taste and rich flavor that is not so common for seafood varieties.

Moreover, scallops are usually described as similar to lobster or crab, but firmer. They have a distinct taste that is slightly fishy, yet not that overpowering.

They offer a distinct taste, however, its texture is what makes them enticing and interesting. Scallops are chewy and soft but not tough and rubbery when properly cooked. They also tend to change in character and gives you a meatier, grilled taste that everyone loves.

Tips in Choosing Only the Freshest Scallops

• Find scallops that have pink or orange tint. These colors indicate that the scallops are nutritious and healthy.
• Never buy scallops which have turned bright matte white. Fresh scallops should be creamy and shiny white.
• Fresh scallops are should hold its shape and are plump in appearance.
• If you cannot find any freshly caught scallops, go for dry-packed ones.

4 Ways to Cook Scallops

There are various ways to cook scallops, however, the most common cooking methods involve cooking them in high heat in just a short amount of time.

1. Pan-seared or Sautéed

One of the most common methods of cooking fresh scallops, sautéed or pan-seared scallops are favored by many since it is quite fast and convenient. Searing scallops will give them a golden brown crust which brings an additional caramelized flavor.

2. Deep-fried

You can deep fry just about every food, and scallops are not an exception. A batter mixture of egg, salt, sugar, flour, water and cooking oil can make crisp, golden scallops! So, forget fried fish for dinner— try deep-fried scallops and chips instead!

3. Grilled

There is nothing like the heavenly smoky taste and smell of grilled food. And believe it or not, scallops are a great candidate for BBQs, as long as you do not overcook them. The most popular way of grilling scallops is to skewer them along with ingredients like fruits and vegetables.

4. Broiled

If you want a healthier option, then broiled scallops are your best bet. It is easy and takes only about 10 minutes or less to cook. Putting scallops and skewer and brushing some melted butter and a sprinkle of seasoning should give you a clean, yummy, and flavorful broiled scallops.

Chewy Thoughts:

Perhaps, you might be fully dressed right now and ready to get to the nearest seaport, so you can buy this heavenly sea goodness in big batches!

Scallops are delicious, sweet-flavored sea goodness that will surely become a part of your daily diet once you have tasted them. So, give them a chance, shall we?

I hope you find this article helpful! Do you have any question or a yummy scallop recipe? Don’t forget to share the goodness and fire up the comment section below!

Until then, have a sweet, chewy day!

The post What Do Scallops Taste Like? Understanding the Bivalve Goodness Under the Sea appeared first on Cooky Mom.

Dessert Talks: Is Pudding Gluten-Free?

Love pudding?

Well, for me, I got a weak spot with sweets!

Those creamy, sweet dessert most of us crave after a hearty meal. That soft melting sensation on your palate?

OMG! I always love it and will always ask for more!

And although almost everyone cannot resist its sweet allure, there are those who are extremely careful and cautious and most often will ask:

“Is it healthy?” or “Is it gluten-free?”

Let’s find out!

Understanding Gluten

Before I answer the question, let us first have a better understanding of what is gluten.

Gluten is the naturally-occurring substance that can be found in some plants. It is a mix of different proteins which are used by grains in order to store resources for later. It is mostly found in rye, barley, oats, wheat and other related plants.

In simpler terms:

Gluten is primarily found in grains.

In general, foods that are not grains are gluten-free. This includes foods like spices, most vegetables, meats, sugar, milk, corn, rice and a variety of other food items.

However, it does not mean that if something does not have any cereal grains in it then it is totally gluten-free. There is a concept known as “cross-contamination” which makes a variety of safe ingredients susceptible to being sold having small quantities of gluten in them. Depending on a person’s gluten sensitivity, cross contamination might be a big deal or a total non-issue.

Understanding Pudding

Different from some types of food, “pudding” as no universally accepted definition. In the US, the term “pudding” usually refers to a sweet, thick dessert. Puddings are usually made with gelatin, eggs and other various thickening agents and almost never made with grains.

In other parts of the world, the term “pudding” can refer to a broad variety of other dishes. This includes black pudding which I a mix of barley or oats and blood and Yorkshire pudding which is a British dish that is somewhere between a muffin and a pancake.

And while some other “puddings” do not have any gluten in them, these 2 examples most definitely do!

Creamy Pudding: Is it Gluten-Free or Not?

I give you the good news now:

Yes, most puddings are gluten-free.

But, I said most, right?

So, how do you know if a pudding is gluten-free?

Puddings which used wheat or other cereal as its primary ingredient are certainly not gluten-free.

In other words, if you are looking at a box of instant pudding or a pudding cup at the grocery store, there is almost certainly no gluten in it. If you are looking at a menu item in a restaurant, there is a good chance that there might be some gluten depending on the variety of pudding you choose and how it was made. The best thing you can do in such situations is to ask the server.

How About Jello Pudding?

Both the mix-it-yourself and pre-made varieties of Jello pudding don’t have notable amounts of gluten. Such desserts are made with various ingredients and cereal grains are not among those ingredients.

Jello do not to market their products as “gluten-free” since they are enhanced with artificial colors. And because Jello does not have control in manufacturing these colorants, there is no way of knowing whether or not any glutens accidentally ended up in them.

But, of course, there is not a huge amount of food coloring in Jello pudding. Even if a small amount of gluten did happen to get in the coloring of the pudding by accident, then you will certainly not notice it in a normal serving. In simpler terms, you can treat it as gluten-free.

How about specific varieties? Jello vanilla or chocolate pudding? Again, the answer to that is yes, all Jello pudding are generally gluten-free. So, there is no need to worry about particular varieties.

And Instant Pudding?

I’d say it again:

There are no grains in the type of pudding that you are likely to eat in the United States. This includes both pudding you make, the ones you eat at a restaurant or the pudding that you got from the store whether it comes in a single-serve cup, a tub or in a box.

Instant pudding is no different. And it is basically a mixture of flavors, cornstarch, sugars and a few fancy ingredients for the finishing touches.

Are All Puddings Safe To Eat?

As I have mentioned before, pudding has a wide variety. And not all of them are gluten-free!

So, if you accidentally ordered a Yorkshire pudding, then it is pretty obvious that you are not having a gluten-free dessert. Yorkshire puddings are a lot like bread, so it is quite easy to realize that it is not a gluten-free dessert as you were expecting.

There are various versions of puddings across the world.

For instance, rice pudding is made from milk, rice and lots of sugar. Bread pudding is quite like rice pudding except that it is made with bread rather than rice. Haggis, a type of pudding that is made from sheep organs, oatmeal, onions, and seasoning.

So, it is quite easy to be confused.

However, it is not that difficult to figure out if a certain pudding is gluten-free based on its ingredients and appearance.

You can always take a look or ask about the ingredients and you will easily know if it is gluten-free or not.

Gluten-Free Puddings Exist But Stay Cautious

In conclusion, pudding is a yummy dessert that you can certainly add to a gluten-free diet. However, you need to be cautious and check labels and ingredients when food shopping.

Always remember, if you’re your pudding is sweet, thick and quite similar to custard, then that’s a thumbs up for gluten-free puddings. However, if it is made of bread or looks like bread or has cereal grains as one of its ingredients, then it is a no-no!

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