Tag: platform:email

This $27 Omelet Pan Has More than 1,900 Five-Star Reviews on Amazon

[ad_1]

We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

You don’t have to be Jacques Pepin to make a perfect omelette (although that would certainly help). All you really need to get the job done right is a trusty nonstick pan. But what is one to do if they’re missing that one magical pan from their arsenal? Well, that’s what we’re here for. We turned to Amazon to find the most beloved nonstick pan on the site and came across one you probably haven’t heard of, but are sure to fall for, too.

Enter: the Ozeri 8″ Stone Frying Pan, a scratch-resistant, die-cast aluminum pan with a magnetized bottom and a heat-resistant, silicone-coated handle that make it truly a force to reckon with. With an almost five-star rating, it’s beloved. The 8-incher, perfect for omlettes and other small foods, costs just $27. However, if you’re looking for something bigger, you’ll be jazzed to know it comes in 8-, 10-, and 12-inch options as well as seven different color options. So what is Amazon saying about this pan? Let’s take a look.

What is the Ozeri 8″ Stone Frying Pan?

So what is it about the Ozeri 8″ Stone Frying Pan that has shoppers stocking up on this pan? Unlike most pans, this pick is a non-stick induction-safe beauty that uses a stone-derived coating from Germany that is 100% free of APEO, GenX, PFBS, PFOS, PFOA, and the lesser known chemicals NMP and NEP for some of the safest, eco-friendly cooking around. This coating is not only eco-friendly, its scratch-resistant, super easy to clean, and features a lovely speckled design for some extra flair.

What Amazon Reviewers Are Saying

With its solid construction and $27 pricetag, it’s no wonder over 200 people have bought the Ozeri 8″ Stone Frying Pan just in the last month. Top that off with glowing reviews to match and it’s definitely a pick we can get behind. Matter of fact, it may have just found a home on my stove — time for an omlette.

[ad_2]

Lauren Masur

Source link

December 1, 2023
The Most Effective Mouse Repellents That Will Get Rid of Rodents for Good

[ad_1]

We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

Sure, mice might be cute in cartoons, but in real life, they chew wires, turn pantries into buffets, and can pose some serious health threats. Not as cute anymore, right? But fear not — we’ve got the lowdown on the eight best mouse repellents that go way beyond the old-school traps (because, after all, those are pretty harsh). Think natural alternatives like peppermint oil and ultrasonic tunes — no, not the latest hits, but sounds that’ll make mice wish they’d hang out elsewhere. This guide spills the tea on those not-so-ordinary solutions that mess with the mice’s senses, making your place their last choice to call home. So, say goodbye to the downsides of sharing space with these little critters. Get ready to take back control, kick back, and enjoy a mouse-free, stress-free living zone both in and outside of your house with these creative solutions. Like the saying goes “you don’t have to go home, but you can’t stay here!”

[ad_2]

Haley Lyndes

Source link

December 1, 2023
This Easy-to-Use Gadget Keeps My Knife Blades Razor Sharp (Anyone Can Use It!)

[ad_1]

We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

Knives are one of my favorite things to test and review for The Kitchn, but one thing about knives is that no matter how well you hone them and try to take care of them, they’re going to get dull after repeated use. (Or when your roommates run them through the dishwasher, leave them in the sink, or use them to saw through cardboard boxes.) When they do, you have a few options: You could either send them out to get professionally sharpened or you can sharpen them yourself, either with a whetstone or a pull-through/electric sharpener.

Sending them out to get sharpened is probably your best bet, because you know they’ll have a razor edge when they come back, and there’s no work to be done on your end, but not everyone wants to pay for that or be without their favorite knives for a spell. Pull-through and electric sharpeners will work, but they’ll eat away your blades super quickly — which is okay, I suppose, if you’re fine with buying more grocery store knives on a regular basis. However, for any knife you care about, you should try to use more precise methods of sharpening.

Whetstones are your best bet for at-home sharpening, but these have a pretty hefty learning curve for beginners and are a little tricky to master. (That’s why there are professional knife sharpeners.) So, when I heard about the Tumbler Diamond Rolling Knife Sharpener Set, which promises to be gentle on your blades and easy to use for beginners, I was excited to test it out.

Design Features That Stand Out

The first time I saw this rolling knife sharpening system was in an ad that got served to me on Instagram, and while I thought it was a little strange at first, after testing it, it turned out to be a pretty solid knife sharpening system that I think would be great for beginners. You basically just attach the knife to the angled base using the embedded magnets, then roll the sharpening wheel along the side. This way, you don’t have to worry about guesstimating the correct angle like you would using a whetstone, and you can use a softer touch than you would with a pull-through sharpener, resulting in less overall metal loss. The rolling action is super smooth, and the magnets on the base are strong enough to hold your knife in place at the correct angle while you’re sharpening. I love the wooden finish, too, and since I also got the Tumbler Rolling Sharpening Protective Stand, it all stays organized in a neat little station.

The TL; DR on this setup? It worked pretty well! I have a double-sided synthetic whetstone that I’ve used for years, but the Tumbler is admittedly a lot faster. It also takes much less thought than a whetstone, since you don’t really have to worry about getting the correct angles. For the sake of the article, I dulled one of my knives on purpose, and while it broke my heart to scrape the edge along the back of a fork, the Tumbler Diamond Rolling Knife Sharpener Set had it back to a very sharp edge in just a few minutes. Credit where credit is due!

This does take a little practice to get the hang of, but not nearly as much as a whetstone. And, while you probably won’t get your knives as sharp as a professional sharpening or a whetstone would, it’s a great option if you know you’re not going to be learning the craft or spending the money on a sharpening service. Pro Tip: Take your time when you first get started and don’t roll the sharpening stone back and forth like a maniac — that’s when you could end up hurting yourself, so use common sense and be careful when dealing with sharp objects.

Should YOU Buy the Tumbler Diamond Rolling Knife Sharpener Set?

I think this is a great knife-sharpening option if you:

Why You Should Trust Us

The Commerce Team at The Kitchn has one mission: to help you make smart and informed purchases. We know how hard online shopping can be — it’s literally our job! From trying to decipher confusing marketing lingo to sorting through scores of fake paid reviews in search of some truth, online shopping can be overwhelming. We’re dedicated to doing the hard work for you by reviewing these products firsthand and delivering all the information you need, both good and bad.

Our team is made up of a group of writers and editors who have years of experience in the home, kitchen, and parenting consumer product space, and who put hundreds of items to the test every year to determine which ones get our stamp of approval. We bring these products into our personal spaces, testing them for weeks and even months at a time to see how well they live up to their claims and if they are really worth your time and money. At the end of the day, we’re consumers too, so we’ll always provide you with all the information we’d want — and then some.

[ad_2]

Ian Burke

Source link

December 1, 2023
5 Unexpected Ways to Use Le Creuset as Decor, According to Dabito, Peter Som, and Ariel Okin

[ad_1]

We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

If there’s something every single generation can agree on, it’s that Le Creuset cookware is covetable. Getting a piece of Le Creuset’s enameled cookware in your kitchen — no matter how small — is a sign that you might actually be an adult. In addition to being high-quality cookware, it’s also very aesthetically pleasing. It almost feels like a crime to put such a beautiful piece of cookware away to languish in a cabinet until your next dinner party or stew night. The brand thought similarly when they assembled two leading interior designers and a lifestyle expert to present the Final Touch Forecast. In this forecast, they not only discussed four trends to watch out for in 2024 but also how to get Le Creuset pieces out of those kitchen cabinets and use them as decor around the house. Well, at Kitchn, we love a multi-functional object, so we had to find out more.

After the forecast, we interviewed Dabito, an interior designer, art, and author of Old Brand New: Colorful Homes for Brand New Living; Ariel Okin, who runs an interior design firm, is the founder of Fenimore Lane, and serves as a contributing writer to multiple publications; and Peter Som, who is a fashion designer, culinary creator (currently working on his first cookbook) and lifestyle expert, about how to style Le Creuset in your home.

“I love catch-alls for everywhere,” Dabito says. “I love to just throw things into dishes, plates, ramekins, everything. The tapas set is also a great way to use them.”

I personally would have never thought to use any Le Creuset piece as a catch-all tray, but as soon as Dabito, Ariel, and Peter all cited that as a Le Creuset use, I immediately went home and started using my three Le Creuset tapas dishes as catch-alls. Why keep these rarely used dishes hiding in the back of my kitchen cabinet? One is for keys, one is for jewelry in my bedroom, and the other has been filled with Hinoki wood shavings as a living room decor element. Ariel also uses her tapas dishes for hair ties and coins.

And you aren’t limited to using small Le Creuset items as catch-alls either. For example, Peter Som uses a pasta bowl in his foyer as a catch-all for keys and other entryway items.

“I love utilizing some of the beautiful enameled pitchers as vases — the hues are so
stunning!” Ariel says, and Le Creuset agrees. If you go to Le Creuset’s site, you can see the pitcher being used as a tulip vase. Ariel also mentions that is one of Le Creuset’s more versatile pieces to style as a decor because it can also be used as a catch-all tray.

Alright, your mind might have immediately gone to trying to mount your heavy Dutch Oven on the wall and that is not what anyone is suggesting. But, you could hang up the lids of each Le Creuset pan you have and create a pop of color in your kitchen, which is what Dabito suggests. “I have a small kitchen, so it’s the perfect chance to display them.” He says.

Liven up your desk with a Le Creuset mug. This mug is both nice to look at and functional. Peter thinks that Le Creuset’s budget-friendly Vancouver Mugs are one of the most versatile pieces, in that they go can “anywhere.” Peter suggests putting them “in the den for pencils and pens, in the bathroom, to hold Q-tips and such, on a side table with flowers … and of course just to display on shelves in the kitchen or dining room.”

Dabito, who is also an artist, stores his brushes in his mugs.

When you live in a small space, you might find yourself low on cabinet space. If you don’t have anywhere to put Le Creuset pieces, show them off on an open kitchen shelf or get even more creative, like Dabito. “I have one [piece] on top of my bookcase in my office,” He says.

Picking a Le Creuset Color: Designer Tips

Le Creuset has so many vibrant shades of enameled cookware that it can be difficult to figure out which shade you want to bring into your home. Whether you’re a minimalist or a maximalist (or somewhere in between), our designers share the Le Creuset colors that they use in their homes and kitchens as some inspo for you.

“I have the Rhône Dutch Oven in my kitchen currently,” Dabito says. “It’s just a beautiful, rich, bold color, and it’s the perfect backdrop for — my entire kitchen is green and it’s pretty bold — so I gave it also an equally rich, bold color to play with that. “

“I love the Nectar,” Dabito adds. “Yellow is one of my favorite colors. It just brings a lot of joy to me, so I have a yellow braiser as well.”

“I love all of the various shades of blue!” Ariel says. “I have one blue Dutch
oven that I got as a gift from my parents when I went to college that is very special to
me!”

Plus, Peter’s first-ever Le Creuset piece was Marseille, which he got after graduating college and still uses the Dutch oven to this day.

“I love Le Creuset’s range of neutrals — colors like Shallot and Oyster are so
soothing yet with such a depth of richness of color— I love how they play against
the natural neutral materials of marble and wood in my home,” Peter recommends.

Peter also recommends Oyster, which is a gray-ish gradient. It’s more fun than straight-up black or white, but visually varied enough to look expensive and interesting on your stove or kitchen table.

[ad_2]

Alicia Kort

Source link

November 30, 2023
Costco’s New “Beautiful” Serving Set Is the $25 Find Your Holidays Need

[ad_1]

We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

And just like that, it’s officially hosting season! From Thanksgiving to Hanukkah to Christmas and New Year’s, the end of the calendar year is always a whirlwind of festive events — likely with a revolving door of guests. While it’s certainly part of the holiday fun to invest in some holiday decor, whether that’s from Aldi, Target, or another fan-favorite retailer, sometimes it doesn’t feel worth it if your holiday finds live in the back of your closet for most of the year. But Costco’s got the perfect year-round hosting gem.

Luckily, Costco just dropped a stunning serving set that you can use for this year’s holiday hosting, summer parties, and beyond. According to a @costcowins Instagram post, the Mesa Inspired Living Mango Wood Serving Set has made its way to the shelves at the bulk retailer. With three stunning, vibrant bowls and a tray, the set is a steal at just $24.99.

Each bowl has a patterned enamel interior with a sleek wooden exterior, making it super sturdy and easy to clean. While the design is different for each piece, the bowls complement each other nicely with their uniformed color scheme whether it’s the purple and red variation or the teal and orange combo. The tray sits at 19.4 inches long and seven inches wide, while each bowl stands at three inches tall with a width of six inches — a perfect size for holiday appetizers!

While this set may be on your holiday wishlist, it also makes a great staple piece to have for your outdoor gatherings once the weather starts to heat up again. Fill each bowl with your favorite dips like guacamole, salsa, and hummus for a stunning spread at the next spring picnic, summer BBQ, or fall dinner party by the firepit. Since the bowls can be used year-round, these are about to become an instant kitchen staple. They’ll even look adorable as a centerpiece on your kitchen counter, so you don’t have to worry about storing them away.

The serving set has also been spotted throughout the year at Costco in varying styles (and prices) from @costco.hotbuys and @costcobuys — and shoppers in the comments can’t get enough. “I want this!!” wrote one user, while another chimed in, “Just got obsessed.” Unfortunately, the serving set isn’t available on Costco’s website, so you’ll have to head into your local store to find them. (Or order them from eBay, Walmart, or Mercari!). Make sure to run — don’t walk — to grab these ASAP, as they’re already flying off the shelves.

Love the Enamel Wood Serving Set? Then You’ll Love…

[ad_2]

Emma Taubenfeld

Source link

November 30, 2023
This Brilliant $18 Storage Hack Instantly Doubles Your Fridge Space

[ad_1]

The best part? It requires zero effort.
READ MORE…

[ad_2]

Shifrah Combiths

Source link

November 30, 2023
The $23 Organizing Find That’ll Corral All Your Cutting Boards and Keep Them Within Reach

[ad_1]

When in doubt, snag another organizer.
READ MORE…

[ad_2]

Morgan Pryor

Source link

November 30, 2023
The Leakproof, Airtight Food Storage Containers that Kitchn Editors and Amazon Shoppers Love Are on Major Sale

[ad_1]

We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

As an adult, there are some hard truths you inevitably have to face, one of them being this: It’s time to replace the flimsy plastic food containers you’ve been using since your first grown-up apartment. In short, if they’re concave, discolored, and sporting lids that no longer fit, into the recycling bin they go. You might not know it yet, but investing in quality containers will significantly improve your day-to-day life. It’s one of those small but impactful life upgrades you’ll never regret, like getting a cable organizer or spending a couple extra bucks on a nicer shampoo. And, your new replacements don’t have to be made of glass, which might last long but can prove too heavy for portable meals. Thankfully, we have the perfect set in mind, beloved by editors and Amazon shoppers alike. The Brilliance leak-proof food storage containers by Rubbermaid will totally revamp your Tupperware drawer and simplify meal prep. What’s more, you can snag them for $5 off right now.

What are the Rubbermaid Brilliance Leak-Proof Food Storage Containers?

These kitchen staples come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but this particular set includes five rectangular pieces with matching leakproof lids. The containers are made of Tritan, a BPA-free plastic, and you’ll find that they look like glass upon first glance. In reality, you get the same durability as glass without the undesirable heft. The material is also odor- and stain-resistant, so you’ll easily be able to wash off stubborn spaghetti sauce, no matter how long it sits inside. Of course, the plastic is also clear, so you can reach into your fridge and grab exactly what you need without having to rummage. With the set, you get two 1.3-cup containers, two 3.2-cup containers, and one 9.6-cup container, plus lids. As a result, you’ll be able to store a variety of eats in their deep interiors regardless of whether it’s a side dish or family meal leftovers.

What Amazon Reviewers Are Saying

Plenty of other Amazon reviewers also noted that they’ve repurchased the containers and will continue to do so. We have a feeling they’ll quickly become your favorites, too, and there’s no better time to find out now that these meal prep must-haves are on sale.

[ad_2]

Nikol Slatinska

Source link

November 30, 2023
Tupperware’s $11 Mickey Mouse-Shaped Bottle Is the Perfect Stocking Stuffer (Get It Before It Sells Out!)

[ad_1]

We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

Get ready for a dose of Disney magic like never before! Let us introduce you to the whimsical world of Tupperware’s latest gem, where Mickey Mouse takes center stage in the coolest way possible with his classic silhouette. But here’s the kicker — this isn’t just any old run-of-the-mill collectible. It’s a bottle with a cap that’s practically made for little ones to sip water out of (or can be used for syrups, dish soaps, and more). It’s a multi-purpose treat that’s only going to make your day more enchanting when you see it — and who doesn’t want that? Whether you’re a Disney fanatic or just someone who loves a bit of everyday magic, this bottle is the gift you didn’t know you needed. (Psst … it also makes a great stocking stuffer!) Get ready to infuse your day with the playful spirit of Mickey Mouse and make each moment a magical one!

What Is the Mickey Mouse Bottle?

Adorned with the iconic Mickey silhouette, this 14-ounce bottle will add a playful touch to your daily routine. Its user-friendly design features a flip-up cap, ensuring easy access and secure closure. Beyond its charming aesthetics, this bottle is versatile — suitable for sipping water or accommodating syrups and dish soaps. Crafted for style and functionality, it transforms everyday moments into magical experiences. Embrace the joy of Disney with every sip, as this Tupperware creation seamlessly combines practicality and enchantment in a single package.

Elevate your hydration game with Tupperware’s $11 Mickey Mouse bottle — available in festive red with the iconic silhouette. It makes a stylish and practical Christmas gift, sprinkling Disney magic into the holiday season.

[ad_2]

Haley Lyndes

Source link

November 29, 2023
This Online Spice Shop Is My Secret Weapon for Making Weeknight Dishes Way More Delicious

[ad_1]

We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

In my house, seasoning is always a huge part of any meal. And, while I can always count on the tried-and-true spices I grew up with and keep in my spice cabinet at all times (garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, crushed red pepper, sazón, and Italian seasoning, to name a few) I love trying out new ones and cooking with new flavors. Unfortunately, you can exhaust your average supermarket’s spice selection pretty quickly, and sometimes, finding a particular spice or herb can be difficult, depending on where you live and what markets you have access to. Thankfully, there are a ton of great online spice shops that let you bring flavors and aromas from all over the world right into your kitchen at home. I recently got the opportunity to try out some spices from Vân Vân, an online purveyor of single-origin spices and herbs sourced from different growing regions around Vietnam, and I can’t stop raving about it.

Started in the summer of 2022 by founders Thảo and Duy — who have a background running popular cooking pop-ups and pick-ups — Vân Vân has a foundation rooted in Vietnamese home cooking, history, and culture, with a mission to “invest in local growers and support their livelihoods by paying a fair price for their products,” according to their website. By partnering with small growers, the brand aims to put premium Vietnamese products on center stage and showcase the country’s diverse flavors. Vân Vân offers a collection of unique herbs and spices that are available a la carte or as bundles. (They have some pretty cool merch, too.)

I live in New York City, and even with access to tons of high-quality markets around town, it’s tough to find many of these spices in my local supermarket, and even if I could, the fresh versions would probably go bad before I could use them all. The best part about Vân Vân is that the spices and herbs come dehydrated, so when you want to use them, you can just soak them in water for a minute or two and they’re good to go! The Bundle of Flavors collection (which I tested) includes Northern Mountain Garlic, Delta Lemongrass, Sparrow Ginger, Coastal purple shallot, and Heaven Facing Chili. Besides being delicious additions to my spice cabinet, they’re also fairly priced, and I can feel good about supporting small businesses when I order them — rather than buying spices of questionable origin from some mysterious grocery store spice giant. And, while you can cook meals and make cocktails based around the spices themselves from the recipe bank on their website, you can also just add these spices to your regular weeknight meals. Being able to cook with high-quality spices that I’d usually have to go to a restaurant to taste has been great, and it makes my weeknight meals so much more interesting and fun to eat.

I’m also not the only one who digs the spice shop. “I bought the bundle of flavors so I could try them all!” one reviewer wrote, “They are so convenient to have around, I find fresh lemongrass hard to find in my local supermarkets, so to have it on hand is so convenient, same with all the other spices. Secondly, the flavor is phenomenal. I find myself gravitating towards the smaller garlic, the lemongrass, and the chilis the most when I’m cooking. The chilis have some good heat!” So, if you’re looking to, er, spice up your weeknight meals or try some new and exciting recipes, give Vân Vân a try ASAP — especially while it’s on sale.

[ad_2]

Ian Burke

Source link

November 29, 2023
This Versatile $10 Egg Gadget Makes Meal Prep a Breeze (It Has More Than 2,000 5-Star Amazon Reviews!)

[ad_1]

We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

Picture this: You’ve nailed the art of the perfect hard-boiled egg, and now it’s time to effortlessly transform it into slices for your salad, sandwich, or whatever culinary creation is calling your name. Sounds simple, right? Well, that’s if you’re into the whole meticulous slicing thing. Personally, I’m all about keeping the prep minimal (and steering clear of any accidental cuts). Enter a game-changer: an egg slicer. This sleek, user-friendly gadget boasts an aluminum alloy base, a comfortable grip, and a razor-sharp, stainless-steel wire that gets the job done in seconds. And, it’s not just limited to eggs. Whether you’re chopping strawberries, bananas, mushrooms, butter, or cheese, this slicer can handle it. Forget the fuss and mess of slicing produce with a knife; this gadget makes clean-up easy with a quick rinse under water or a toss in the dishwasher. And the best part? It won’t monopolize your kitchen space. When breakfast is wrapped up, just stash it away in a drawer — easy, peasy!

What Is the Coduole Egg Slicer?

With a razor-sharp, stainless-steel wire, this egg slicer cuts through not only hard-boiled eggs but also soft delights like strawberries, bananas, and cheese. It’s crafted to be durable, so you can count on owning it for years. Its stainless-steel construction guarantees a sharp, precise cut every time, promising a hassle-free experience when turning your favorite foods into perfect slices. With this egg slicer, you can say goodbye to uneven cuts for good.

What Amazon Reviewers Are Saying

Priced at just $9.99, this stainless-steel egg slicer is a budget-friendly kitchen essential. It effortlessly slices through hard-boiled eggs and soft foods, promising precision and durability for years to come. Say goodbye to uneven cuts and hello to a versatile slicer that won’t break the bank.

[ad_2]

Haley Lyndes

Source link

November 29, 2023
This $40 Gadget Will Leave Your Floors Spotless and Make Cleanup a Breeze (It’s on Sale!)

[ad_1]

It’s 20% off for a limited time!
READ MORE…

[ad_2]

Morgan Pryor

Source link

November 28, 2023
My Favorite Baking Sheet Is So Good, I’ve Used It for 3 Years

[ad_1]

We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

When you live in a small apartment but you love to cook, you have to be cutthroat about the cookware and appliances that deserve to take up precious storage space. An air fryer, for example, is out of the cards for me, because my limited counter space is dedicated to the more frequently-used Vitamix, toaster, and espresso machine. Plus, any gadget or cookware whose functionality is nearly the same as something else (ahem, the oven works just fine, Mr. Air Fryer) has no place in my kitchen. There are some items, though, that I could never bear to part with. Namely, my fish spatula, Made In stainless steel skillet, and beloved Nordic Ware half sheet pans.

What is a Half Sheet Pan?

A half sheet pan is exactly what it sounds like: a sheet pan approximately half the size of a standard one (so, about the size of a sheet of copy paper at 17.88 x 12.88 x 1.06 inches). Nordic Ware — an American company founded in Minneapolis, Minnesota — has been manufacturing some of the most popular kitchenware since their inception in 1942 and can be credited with the creation of the Bundt pan and microwave turntable. The family-owned company still manufactures a majority of their consumer and commercial products in Minnesota, including an array of aluminum bakeware, sturdy cookware, and microwave accessories.

What’s so great about the Nordic Ware Baker’s Half Sheet Pan?

I have two baker’s half sheets (part of the Nordic Ware Naturals line), and I rely on them for a multitude of kitchen tasks, from prepping to baking and roasting. On weeknights, I’m likely roasting a batch of vegetables, breading chicken cutlets in an assembly line, or finishing cheesy pasta under the broiler — all of which are perfect tasks for the half sheet. I’ve had plenty of lower quality sheet pans warp under a mere 350 degrees, but with the Nordic Ware half sheets, I’ve never even heard a telltale pop inside the oven or lost even one Brussels sprout to an ill-timed warp. They also fit neatly into my oven drawer, where they live alongside my cast iron and stainless steel skillets.

When I’m feeling ambitious, I use these half sheets to bake chocolate chip cookies or seasonal galettes, maybe even to crisp a baked mac and cheese. Since the pans are made entirely from aluminum, they’re particularly great at conducting heat evenly, so no batches of cookies come out with uneven browning, and the oversized edge ensures no rogue noodles spill over and makes them adept at serving for crowds as well. I’ve even roasted a whole chicken on these half sheets in lieu of a proper roasting pan, because again, why have multiple pieces of cookware if one can do the trick?

While Nordic Ware does not recommend putting these pans in the dishwasher, I’ll admit that that’s where they get washed in our house about 95% of the time, and I’ve not seen any adverse effects. These pans also acquire a patina over time, so don’t expect them to look exactly as they did when they arrived at your doorstep. I like the look of a patinated piece of cookware, though, as it reminds me of how many meals these pans have sailed through with ease.

Buy: Nordic Ware Natural Aluminum Commercial Baker’s Half Sheet, 2-Pack, $21.99 (normally $25.30)

[ad_2]

Caroline Mullen

Source link

November 28, 2023
15 Cyber Monday Home Deals That You Can Still Shop Today, Including All-Clad, Dyson, and KitchenAid

[ad_1]

The party isn’t over yet!
READ MORE…

[ad_2]

Morgan Pryor

Source link

November 28, 2023
8 Wines You Should Absolutely Buy at Aldi (They’re All Under $11)

[ad_1]

According to a former wine buyer.
READ MORE…

[ad_2]

Mackenzie Filson

Source link

November 28, 2023
People Are Just Discovering This Brilliant Use for an Empty Broth Carton

[ad_1]

Before you toss that empty carton, read this!
READ MORE…

[ad_2]

Shifrah Combiths

Source link

November 27, 2023
We Tried 7 Ways of Storing a Pack of Bacon, and the Winners Outlasted Them All for Days

[ad_1]

We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

In my house, bacon is considered a pantry staple. We always have at least a few packs in the freezer to have on hand for last-minute meals, to cook for breakfast alongside eggs, or to impart flavor to a pot of beans. And while I love bacon’s versatility and quick-cooking ability, I don’t always need to use the whole pack at once.

For an ingredient I use so often I must confess that I don’t feel married to storing it in any particular way. That’s why I was eager to experiment with different ways to store bacon, and to finally see which approach yielded the best results.

How We Found the Best Way to Store Leftover Bacon

Credit: Photo: Alex Lepe ; Prop Stylist: Tom Hoerup

Bacon Storing Method: Original Packaging

Rating: 3/10

About this method: This is by far the easiest way to store bacon, and one that I would assume most people do. All it involves is tucking leftover bacon back into its original package.

Results: Out of all the storing methods, leaving the bacon in the original packaging was by far the worst. The bacon became incredibly dried-out and stiff, but the most concerning part was that it began to develop white crystallization on all sides.

My takeaway: Because I was checking the bacon every day, I knew by day four that this method was not going to be a winner. By day seven I was shocked at how poorly the bacon held up. The only time I can imagine using this storage is if I knew I would be using the bacon within 24 hours; otherwise I’d go with one of the most successful approaches.

Credit: Photo: Alex Lepe ; Prop Stylist: Tom Hoerup

Bacon Storing Method: Bacon Sleeve

Rating: 3.5/10

About this method: If you’ve been on TikTok, you might have seen this viral storage method before. All it takes is cutting the bacon package in half, then slipping one piece into the other so that the bacon is fully concealed. I’d never tried this myself, but knew I needed to try it for this experiment — especially because I appreciated that it doesn’t require creating more waste.

Results: While I understand the appeal of this low-waste approach, it sadly didn’t do much better than leaving the bacon in its package as is. The bacon was dried-out and began to discolor and become pale. The only difference here was that while there was some crystallization, there was less than in the original packaging.

My takeaway: Not every hack you see on TikTok works, and the bacon sleeve is proof of that. There are far better options to preserving your bacon than this — and less messy too.

Credit: Photo: Alex Lepe ; Prop Stylist: Tom Hoerup

Bacon Storing Method: Plastic Food Container

Rating: 4/10

About this method: If you’re like me, you have too many plastic food containers in your kitchen, which makes this an ideal storage option. After all, all you need to do is place the bacon in a plastic food container and then place it in the refrigerator.

Results: I don’t know if it was just this container, or something with my refrigerator (although I didn’t have this issue with the glass container), but the plastic container became weirdly wet. It seemed to be a hotbed for condensation, and while the bacon itself didn’t dry out, the idea of wet bacon is incredibly unappealing to me. I also noted that the bacon became pale.

My takeaway: Perhaps this would have been more successful if I had lined the container with a paper towel, but I don’t think it’s worth the time to see. Steer clear of wet bacon and try another way.

Credit: Photo: Alex Lepe ; Prop Stylist: Tom Hoerup

Bacon Storing Method: Zip-Top Bag

Rating: 6/10

About this method: Apart from leaving the bacon in its original packaging, this is probably the method I’ve enlisted most at home, thanks to its ease. Just place the bacon in a zip-top bag, make sure it’s fully sealed, and put it in the refrigerator.

Results: The bacon held up fairly well in the zip-top bag. While it did dry out a bit and began to feel stiff by day five, it was far more malleable than the original packaging or bacon sleeve methods. The other observation I noted was that the bacon looked more pale in color.

My takeaway: If you plan on using the bacon within three days, this is an easy storage option and your bacon should be totally fine. Otherwise, I’d save a bag for another use.

Credit: Photo: Alex Lepe ; Prop Stylist: Tom Hoerup

Bacon Storing Method: Glass Food Container

Rating: 8/10

About this method: Similarly to the plastic food container, I have an endless assortment of glass options in my kitchen. Just like the plastic version, I simply placed the bacon into the container. It’s a low-fuss option that requires little cleanup.

Results: This was far more successful than the plastic container. There wasn’t any residual moisture in the container, and the bacon looked almost new. My only complaint was that by day five it had started to dry out slightly, but not to the point it was unusable.

My takeaway: This is a great way to store bacon — and I particularly loved it for being so eco-friendly. While the bacon didn’t hold up quite as well as the foil or plastic wrap, I think I would personally opt for this method for the sole fact that it doesn’t involve creating extra waste that needs to get thrown away.

Credit: Photo: Alex Lepe ; Prop Stylist: Tom Hoerup

Bacon Storing Method: Aluminum Foil

Rating: 9.5/10

About this method: I placed the bacon on a sheet of foil and then tucked in the sides to create a pouch that was sealed on all sides.

Results: I was absolutely floored at how well the aluminum foil held the bacon up — it looked like it was straight out of the package! The bacon was easy to peel apart, felt malleable, and the color looked bright and fresh.

My takeaway: The aluminum foil and plastic wrap were truly tied in terms of success. The only reason I deducted half a point was because of the wastefulness.

Credit: Photo: Alex Lepe ; Prop Stylist: Tom Hoerup

Bacon Storing Method: Plastic Wrap

Rating: 9.5/10

About this method: Similarly to the aluminum foil, I wrapped the bacon in plastic wrap and folded up the sides so that it was secure on all sides.

Results: The bacon truly looked like it had come out of a freshly opened package. There were no signs of discoloration, crystallization, or dryness. It looked picture-perfect. Although I didn’t keep the test going past day seven (in compliance with the USDA recommendation), I have a strong feeling that the plastic wrap would have kept the bacon looking as fresh for days to come.

My takeaway: Like the aluminum foil, I deducted half a point because that plastic wrap would have to get thrown out afterwards. That said, this was incredibly easy and the bacon clearly looked the best.

This whole experiment came down to managing moisture content. Some of the methods, like the plastic food container, allowed too much moisture in, creating a wet environment. Others, like the original packaging, dried out too much, which created a slew of issues like discoloration and stiffness. While most of these methods would be fine for storing bacon for a day or two, the glass container, foil, and plastic wrap methods were the most successful for longer-term storage.

[ad_2]

Alexis deBoschnek

Source link

November 27, 2023
12 Trader Joe’s Holiday Groceries the Employees Are Most Excited About

[ad_1]

We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.

With Thanksgiving in the rearview and leftovers running low, the winter holidays are (finally) taking center stage. Move over, turkeys — Santa’s coming to town! (Did anyone else watch Elf this past weekend?) The latest episode of the Inside Trader Joe’s podcast dropped earlier this week, and co-hosts Tara Miller and Matt Sloan are also going all in on the festivities.

“There are 469 seasonal products at Trader Joe’s this time of year,” says Tara, and about 86 of them are completely new to stores. Can you imagine the giant stocking you’d need to stuff with all those items? The duo is doing us all a solid by giving us a starting point.

Out of the hundreds of returning items and dozens of new launches, these are the 12 they’re most excited about.

1. Cinnamon Bun-Inspired Pancake & Waffle Mix

“These [pancakes] don’t look like cinnamon buns,” says Matt. “But they do taste like cinnamon bun.” Created by a secret supplier in New York, this new mix has “all the spices in a cinnamon bun,” says Trang, a product developer at Trader Joe’s, and “little crispy bits of cinnamon candies that melt as you cook them” (or crisp up in waffle form). Plus, she adds, “They’re very fluffy.”

2. Trader Joe’s Astounding Multi-Flavor Mini Pretzels

Inside this box you’ll find four exclusive pretzel flavors in “beautifully designed” and incredibly giftable bags, says Trang, which means you won’t find them anywhere else in the store — at any time of the year. “We have a jingle jangle-inspired pretzel that has a peanut butter coating and candy gems on it,” a coffee candy covered pretzel drizzled in dark chocolate, a dark chocolate covered pretzel topped with peppermint candy pieces, and a milk chocolate covered pretzel topped with rainbow nonpareils.

A delicious dessert in less than two minutes? Sign us up for “this absolutely extraordinary gooey, delicious, salty, sweet, soft bread pudding made with pretzel bread,” says Tara. The frozen newcomer needs just 45 to 50 seconds in the microwave (or 15 minutes in the oven) and a 60-second cool-off period. They come in little cups — two per package — and once “you flip it and remove that cup, it looks like an expertly plated thing at a high-end restaurant,” says Matt.

Imported from Denmark, you’ll find not one, but three styles of cookies — all dipped in chocolate — in this box: marzipan filled Napoleon hats, coconut macaroons, and almond triangles. “They’re really beautiful, says Matt,” and “lovingly handmade.”

5. Petit Fours Mousse Cakes

Speaking of trios, these adorable miniature cakes also come in three flavors: chocolate (chocolate cake with chocolate filling and a dark chocolate coating), vanilla (vanilla cake with vanilla buttercream and a white chocolatey coating), and coffee (coffee-coated chocolate cake with a coffee filling). There are nine to a pack, so invite someone over and have yourself a tea party for two.

6. Shrimp Pouches of Many Colors

As the name suggests, these new shrimp dumplings are VIBRANT. The color comes from vegetables, like spinach (for green), beet (red), and pumpkin and tumeric (yellow). You can heat these in a steamer basket, as shown on the package, microwave them (they get a little chewier, according to Tara), or if you like them “nice and crispy,” she adds, you can pan-fry them.

“Understanding which cheddar might work well with additional ingredients,” says Matt, is one of the things the cheesemakers in Leicestershire do best. (They’ve got more than 100 years of experience making cheese.) Take this mild cheddar, which is blended with Spanish figs that have been marinated in white wine and rum. Um, yum! “I will have this on every cheese plate, cheese board, cheese presentation that I make this holiday season,” says Tara. “I’m looking forward to making a grilled cheese sandwich with this cheese,” she adds.

8. Non-Dairy Cinnamon Bun Oat Creamer

If you prefer to drink your cinnamon bun, then this oat creamer is likely your cup of tea — or coffee. “It’s modeled after [the] Brown Sugar Oat Creamer,” says Matt, which is another customer favorite. “It really does make a cup of coffee taste like a cinnamon bun,” adds Tara. “It has that cinnamon, sugary deliciousness.” Another colleague recommends using it to make French toast.

9. Hark and Holly Glühwein Mulled Wine

While you’re at it, keep those mugs handy for this Glühwein, a sweet mulled wine from Germany. Spiced with cinnamon, vanilla, cloves, nutmeg, and orange and lemon zest, “it’s not overly flavored with any of those things,” says Tara, “but I think heated on a chilly winter night, that’s kind of a fun thing to drink.”

What’s old is new with this beauty advent calendar, which first launched in 2019. This year, the package got a whole new “stellar design.” (“Yes, it’s covered with stars,” says Tara.) Beneath the perforated boxes, you’ll find 12 sample-sized products, including the wildly popular facial sunscreen and lip scrub, hair mask, body butter, and more.

11. Shimmering Candy Cane Body Butter

You might recognize this body butter from last year’s 12 Days of Beauty advent calendar. Well, its back and bigger than ever — a full eight ounces, instead of one. The moisturizer’s candy-cane smell is subtle (not “mediciney” as other pepperminty-scented things can be, explains Tara), as is its shimmer. “If you’re not looking for it, you might not really notice it, which, to me, is the best possible scenario,” she adds.

12. Chocolate Croissant Scented Candle

Even when you don’t have chocolate croissants in the oven, you can have scents of buttery laminated dough and melted chocolate wafting throughout your home. It’s a “subtle” yet “wonderful” aroma, according to Tara and Matt, and one worth clearing some space in your candle collection for.

Which of these seasonal items are you most excited about? Tell us in the comments below!

[ad_2]

Mara Weinraub

Source link

November 27, 2023
What Does a Serving Size of Protein Look Like?

[ad_1]

What Does a Serving Size of Protein Look Like?

The standard serving size for meat or fish is 3 ounces, which is about the size of the palm of your hand. The standard serving size for beans, legumes, and grains is around 1/2 cup or about the size of the front of your closed fist. A single serving of yogurt is equal to 1 cup. For nut or seed butter, the serving is around 2 tablespoons. Lastly, when it comes to whole nuts and seeds, a serving size is about 1 ounce.

[ad_2]

Sheela Prakash

Source link

November 26, 2023
Why Prime Rib Is Always on the Menu in December

[ad_1]

What is Prime Rib?

Prime rib is a cut of beef from the primal rib section of a cow. An entire prime rib has 6 ribs which are often sliced individually to make ribeye steaks. Prime rib, which is also commonly referred to as a “standing rib roast”, is often prepared for the holidays because of its tender texture, which comes from substantial marbling.

[ad_2]

Christine Gallary

Source link

November 26, 2023