Category: Food

Tumeric, What You Need to Know

The use of turmeric dates back nearly 4000 years to the Vedic culture in India, where it was used as a culinary spice and had some religious significance. It probably reached China by 700 ad, East Africa by 800 AD, West Africa by 1200 AD, and Jamaica in the eighteenth century. The name turmeric derives from…


Turmeric: What You Need to Know

The use of turmeric dates back nearly 4,000 years to the Vedic culture in India, where it was used as a culinary spice and had some religious significance. It probably reached China by 700 ad, East Africa by 800 AD, West Africa by 1200 AD, and Jamaica in the 18th century. The name turmeric derives from…


If You Like Shepherd’s Pie, You’ll Love This Beef Stew Served Over Mashed Potatoes

This hearty beer-spiked beef stew is served with creamy mashed potatoes for a shepherd’s pie vibe. Beef and Mushroom Stew With Mashed Potatoes Active Time: 35 minutes Total Time: 50 minutes Serves 4 1 1/2 pounds yellow potatoes, scrubbed and cut into 2-inch pieces 1/2 cup low-fat milk 2 tablespoons unsalted butter 3/4 teaspoon salt,…


Lovely Leaves: The World’s Most Exotic Teas

In the many years since tea leaves fell into Chinese Emperor Shennong’s cup of hot water in 2727 BC, this beverage has become second only to water in worldwide consumption. Though tea was once used as currency, we prefer to drink it. Thank You, Cicadas Tea Source Oriental Beauty Oolong Tea, Taiwan $12.99 for 4 ounces…


Wine’s Many Paths

The complications arising in the production of wine can be so voluminous that it takes a multi-year college degree to master the basics, and after that it takes years to become an expert in all of its manifestations. Those who love chardonnay (or any grape variety, for that matter) will have a hard time processing…


3 Tricks for Thick, Chewy Cookies Every Time

Thick cookies are often chewy cookies—and we made recipe choices to create cookies that are nice and thick! First, we use more brown sugar than white sugar: Brown sugar contains more water, so it helps make cookies moister and chewier. Next, we let the dough rest for 30 minutes before shaping and baking the cookies….


How to Make Perfectly Crispy, Golden Spring Rolls

Crispy, golden, fried spring rolls are the perfect appetizer. I particularly love an excellent vegetarian spring roll because everyone can enjoy them. Plus, it’s nice to sneak in some veggies. A blend of produce with varying textures and flavors will provide textural excitement in each roll so you won’t miss the meat at all. The…


2 Surprising Ingredients Transform an Ordinary Meat Sauce

Many meat sauce recipes begin by cooking chunks of meat until browned bits stick to the bottom of the pot. Those browned bits are called fond, and they’re absolutely packed with savory umami taste. But this recipe uses ground beef rather than chunks of meat, which will turn dry and pebbly if cooked long enough…


Make Your Own Mixes and Save a Bundle

They’re convenient and tasty, but have you ever considered the high cost of your favorite prepared mixes and spices? In less time than it takes you to run to the market to pick up a box of Rice-a-Roni or Shake ‘n’ Bake, you could make them yourself—and save a bundle in the process. With each…


This Satisfying Winter Gratin Needs to Be on Your Dinner Table

You’ll love the flavors in this satisfying side dish. The onion adds to the slight sweetness of the celery root, while the Gruyere adds to its nuttiness. This is a decadent dish that smells delicious and comforting as it bakes. Just be sure to let it rest after it comes out of the oven. Cooling…