If you’ve followed a recipe that says “simmer,” you might pause and ask: does simmer mean cover? It’s a common question for home cooks. Simmering refers to maintaining a gentle heat where small bubbles rise to the surface, usually between 180°F and 205°F — just below boiling. But whether you cover the pot or not … Read more
When you crack open a peanut, the shells usually get tossed aside. But some people wonder: can you eat the shell of a peanut? The answer is yes, peanut shells are technically edible. However, just because you can eat them doesn’t always mean you should. In this guide, we’ll explore whether peanut shells are safe … Read more
Almond flour is a favorite for gluten-free and low-carb baking, but if you’ve had a bag sitting in your pantry for a while, you may be asking: does almond flour go bad? The answer is yes. Because almond flour is made from ground nuts, it contains natural oils that can turn rancid over time if … Read more
Cooking with strong spices is delicious, but it often leaves behind stubborn aromas and smoke that linger in the home. That’s where a spice kitchen comes in. A spice kitchen is a small, enclosed secondary kitchen designed specifically for preparing foods with strong spices, deep frying, or other cooking methods that create heavy smoke and … Read more
Boudin is a Cajun favorite packed with pork, rice, and spices. Whether you grill it, bake it, or fry it, boudin delivers bold flavor on its own. But many people wonder: what to serve with boudin to round out the meal? The right sides and sauces transform boudin from a quick snack into a satisfying … Read more
Creamy, tangy, and endlessly versatile, homemade ranch dressing is a favorite for dipping veggies, topping salads, or drizzling over wings. But if you’ve just whisked up a batch, you may be wondering: how long is homemade ranch good for? The short answer: Homemade ranch typically lasts about 1 week in the refrigerator when stored properly. … Read more
Canned asparagus often gets overlooked because people think it can’t taste as fresh as the real thing. But with the right cooking methods and seasonings, you can turn a simple can of asparagus into a delicious side dish or even the star of your meal. If you’ve ever wondered how to cook canned asparagus without … Read more
If you love cooking with Calphalon pans, you may wonder: are Calphalon pans oven safe? The good news is yes — most Calphalon pans are designed to go from stovetop to oven. But not all models have the same limits. Some can handle high heat up to 500°F, while others are capped at 400°F depending … Read more
Ahi tuna is rich, meaty, and fast to cook. The tricky part is everything else on the plate. What starch should you choose? Which vegetables bring crunch without overpowering the fish? What sauce ties it all together? This guide gives you simple, reliable pairings and a shortlist of premium tools that make dinner smooth from … Read more
Can you eat raw salmon? Yes, you can—if it’s handled correctly. That means salmon that has been frozen to safe temperatures and kept cold, clean, and protected from contamination. Restaurants rely on strict cold-chain control and specialized equipment to keep fish safe for sushi and sashimi. At home, you can enjoy the same peace of … Read more