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  • I Tried the Nonstick Pan That’s Supposed to Last Up to 37 Times Longer than Ceramic (It’s on Sale!)

    I Tried the Nonstick Pan That’s Supposed to Last Up to 37 Times Longer than Ceramic (It’s on Sale!)

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    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.

    The quest for a nonstick pan that can actually stay nonstick for the long haul can feel, well, kind of futile. Get a new pan, then fall in love as your eggs go slipping and sliding onto your plate — but give it just a few months and you’re back to chiseling bits off the bottom again. Of course, failing to care for the pans properly is a big reason why they just don’t last that long (back away from the metal utensils!), but it’s just a matter of fact that, eventually, the coatings will get stickier over time. In addition, concerns about chemicals in PTFE (aka Teflon) coatings getting vaporized into the air at high temperatures has lured many shoppers away from traditional nonstick. Although these coatings are deemed safe and have been free of harmful PFOAs since around 2015, consumers are still wary.

    Ceramic cookware has emerged as one of the most popular alternatives, but it’s known to lose its nonstick properties after just a few months of use. So when Material Kitchen, one of the many Kitchn favorite direct-to-consumer cookware brands, launched a nonstick a Teflon-free pan purported to last 37 times longer than ceramic last year, well I just had to try it out. And guess what? It’s just as good as new, after a year plus of daily use. But the good news doesn’t stop there! You can get ahold of this MVP pan for 20 percent off on Material’s site right now from now until November 29. All you need to do is add the essential to your cart (along with maybe the brand’s fan-favorite reBoard and our editor-loved knives, they shouldn’t be missed) and score the discount, easy!

    When I unboxed it all those months ago, I also couldn’t help noticing how pretty it is, with its shiny stainless-steel bottom and emerald green surface. In a sea of black and gray, this 10.5-inch sauté pan is quite fetching.

    What Is the Coated Pan by Material Kitchen? 

    The first time I held the essential, I noticed it’s decently heavy for a nonstick pan. At 2.78 pounds, it’s just a little lighter than an All-Clad skillet of the same size (by comparison the 10-inch nonstick skillets I already had in my cabinets were closer to 2 pounds 4 ounces). It makes sense considering the pan is built similarly — 5-ply construction with a copper core for even heating. (For what it’s worth, Material’s Coated Pan is decently more expensive than cheap-o nonstick pans but at least half the price of an All-Clad.) If you like a super lightweight nonstick pan this might not be the one for you, but I loved how substantial it felt and figured its heft meant there’s less chance this pan is going to warp.

    The company calls the coating “mineral nonstick,” fume-free, as well as PFOA-free (again, all nonstick pans are now), Teflon-free, lead-free, and cadmium-free. It’s reinforced with stainless steel, which is why it lasts so much longer than ceramic. And don’t forget, it has that copper core. I’ve used it every day for a year and a half and it’s still as slippery as the day I took it out of the box. 

    My Review of Material Kitchen’s Coated Pan

    The pan heats up fast. In a test of how quickly it heated a cup of water compared to other nonstick and ceramic pans, using the same burner and same flame level for all, the Coated Pan clocked in at less than a minute, while the others took about 30 seconds longer to get the water simmering. It was also noticeably more even in its heat. The water began simmering evenly all around the edges almost at the same time. The other pans started in one area and it took longer for the heat to spread. 

    I cooked pancakes without any oil or butter in the pan and they cooked perfectly golden and even, with no sticking. Even when I added sliced bananas and chocolate chips there was no sticking. I also fried up a bunch of eggs and made omelettes and crepes and they all slid out perfectly. When frying tofu not a single cube stuck and they cooked up crisp and evenly golden from the center to the very edge of the pan. And because the pan is oven safe to 500 degrees, I was able to cook up a frittata and let it get a finishing stint in the oven.

    Supremely even heat, a truly nonstick surface, and a beauty to look at. All in all, I’m very impressed with the Coated Pan. In fact, it might just be my favorite piece of cookware I’ve owned to date.

    Do you have a favorite nonstick pan? Tell us about it in the comments below.

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    Danielle Centoni

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  • What to Do If Your Turkey Is Still Frozen on Thanksgiving Morning

    What to Do If Your Turkey Is Still Frozen on Thanksgiving Morning

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    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.

    Even the most well-seasoned cooks have experienced the dread of the turkey still being frozen or half frozen on Thanksgiving morning. Maybe you decided to host last minute, or your fridge was so packed with holiday meal prep, that big bird in your fridge just did not thaw.

    Don’t panic — whether you’re 24 hours out from roasting the turkey or your family is arrive later in the afternoon, you’ve got options. This handy guide will walk you through what to avoid, as well as how to thaw or roast your turkey depending on its near frozen state.

    Mistakes to Avoid When Quick-Thawing Your Turkey

    The risk of giving you and your guests food poisoning is just too great.

    So, why can’t you do any of these things? Besides looking silly with a hair dryer, if any part of the turkey is within the temperature “danger zone” of 40°F to 140°F for longer than two hours, the likelihood increases that it has developed unsafe levels of bacteria and related toxins. This means that even if the inside of your turkey is still frozen, once the outside thaws to above 40°F, it’s in the danger zone.

    Even cooking your turkey thoroughly in the oven doesn’t guarantee that the turkey is safe to eat — most bacteria will be destroyed, but the illness-causing toxins remain. There are times when you can bend the food safety rules and times when you shouldn’t. This is just one of those times when it’s not worth the risk.

    If You Have a Few Hours to Spare

    The best way to thaw a turkey is to leave it in the fridge for a few days, but if you’re reading this, then that option has probably passed you by. Not to worry — you can also thaw your turkey more quickly by submerging it in cold water.

    Thawed this way in cold water, estimate roughly 30 minutes for every pound of turkey (so, an 8-pound turkey will take 4 hours to thaw using this method). This can of course take a while for a large turkey, so be sure to plan the rest of your meal — and the dinner bell — accordingly. Personally, I like this method the best if my turkey has already done some thawing in the fridge but is still partially frozen. The cold water helps it finish thawing the rest of the way time for dinner.

    If There’s No Time to Thaw

    If you’re up against the clock and have no time left for even the “quick” cold-water thaw, then just cook the turkey frozen. It’s perfectly safe to cook a frozen or partially frozen turkey in the oven — you just need to allow some extra cooking time, according to the USDA.

    Estimate 50 percent longer cooking time for a completely frozen turkey and around 25 percent longer for a partially frozen turkey. (For example, a completely thawed unstuffed turkey that’s 18 pounds will take roughly 4 hours to cook, and a frozen turkey will take around 6 hours). In either case, check the temperature and cook the turkey until it registers 165°F in both the breast and the thigh.

    The advantage of cooking a frozen turkey is that you still get to sit down to dinner in a timely manner with none the wiser for your turkey snafu earlier in the day. The disadvantage is that you’re stuck with a fairly basic roast turkey — no brining, deep-frying, or any other fancy turkey techniques here. You can, however, brush the turkey with butter and rub it with salt, pepper, and spices partway through cooking to give it some color and flavor.

    But even when cooking a frozen turkey, you can still count on plenty of crispy skin and tender meat, and most importantly, Thanksgiving is saved.

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    Emma Christensen

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  • How To Reheat Turkey So It Never Dries It Out

    How To Reheat Turkey So It Never Dries It Out

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    How to Reheat Turkey

    The best way to reheat turkey is in a 350°F oven. Place the turkey pieces in a baking dish and drizzle with a few tablespoons of stock and/or butter. Cover the dish with foil and heat in the oven at 350°F for about 30 minutes.

    Alternatively, you can microwave the sliced turkey (cover with a damp paper towel) in a microwave-safe dish at 50% power in 1-minute intervals.

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    Meghan Splawn

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  • 70 Make-Ahead Brunch Recipes Worth Waking Up For

    70 Make-Ahead Brunch Recipes Worth Waking Up For

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    We swear by number five.
    READ MORE…

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    Emma Christensen

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  • 128 Delicious Thanksgiving Desserts Everyone Will Love

    128 Delicious Thanksgiving Desserts Everyone Will Love

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    The Ultimate Thanksgiving Pie Bars

    Everyone will find something to love in these bars. On the bottom you’ve got a buttery gingersnap crust, topped with a layer of rich and creamy pumpkin cheesecake. Next, you’ve got a tart, tangy layer of apples and cranberries, and the whole thing is finished off with a cinnamon-pecan crumble.

    Go to Recipe

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    Kelli Foster

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  • 25 Turkey Recipes For Every Type of Thanksgiving Host

    25 Turkey Recipes For Every Type of Thanksgiving Host

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    Faith is the SVP of Content at Apartment Therapy Media and former Editor-in-Chief of The Kitchn. She is the author of three cookbooks, including the James Beard Award-winning The Kitchn Cookbook. She lives in Columbus, Ohio, with her husband and two daughters.

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    Faith Durand

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  • The Easiest Vegetable Stock You Can Make at Home

    The Easiest Vegetable Stock You Can Make at Home

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    All you need are some chopped up vegetables and fresh herbs.

    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.

    Every time we make vegetable stock, we wonder why we ever bother buying it in the store. It’s so easy! Chop up some vegetables, cover with water, and simmer. Done. You’ll have enough stock to make your soups, casseroles, and pilafs for weeks to come, and all in just a little over an hour.

    The Best Vegetables for Vegetable Stock

    When making a basic vegetable stock, you want vegetables with neutral, but savory flavors. Some recipes recommend adding garlic and other strong spices, but unless we know how we’re going to be using the broth, we prefer to add those kinds of seasonings when we’re actually making a dish. We also don’t add salt to the stock for the same reason. Onions, carrots, celery and mushrooms are the ideal starter vegetables for stock, but feel free to swap any of these for leeks, tomatoes or parsnips.

    Saving Vegetables for Broth

    We keep a big resealable bag in our freezer where we can throw vegetable odds and ends: vegetables that have wilted beyond saving, the green parts from leeks, trimmings from carrots, and so on. Once this bag gets full, we use the contents to make broth.

    Vegetables to Avoid When Making Vegetables Stock

    Seems contrary to the title but not every vegetables is destined for vegetable stock. Starchy vegetables like potatoes and turnips will make for a gummy, cloudy vegetable stock. Beets overpower their aromatic counterparts. Zucchini and greens beans become bitter when slowly simmered for as long it takes to make this stock.

    Simple Upgrades for Better Vegetable Stock

    While vegetable broth is a basic building block of the kitchen it doesn’t have to be boring. Consider adding leftover Parmesan rinds to your vegetable stock. Kombu is powerful addition, mostly for its thickening and umami abilities.

    Two ways to add more flavor to your broth are to roast the vegetables beforehand or to let them sweat (start to soften and release their liquids) for a few minutes over the heat before adding the water.

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    Emma Christensen

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  • 31 Dump Dinner Recipes to Make Mealtime Impossibly Easy

    31 Dump Dinner Recipes to Make Mealtime Impossibly Easy

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    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 you’re unfamiliar with dump dinners, it’s about time to change that. They’re as simple to make as they sound: You just dump a handful of ingredients into a vessel and let it cook, mostly unattended, with a bare minimum of effort. Maybe there’s a tiny bit of chopping or sautéing, but it’s primarily a hands-off situation. Dump dinners are perfect for when you’re extra busy, feeling extra lazy, or both.

    While dump dinners originated with the slow cooker, there are also Instant Pot and even oven or stovetop versions. Here’s every single one of our favorites.

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    Sheela Prakash

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  • We Tested the 8 Best Egg Substitutes for Baking and Found a Clear Winner

    We Tested the 8 Best Egg Substitutes for Baking and Found a Clear Winner

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    So, What Is the Best Egg Substitute?

    After testing several different methods, we found that both carbonated water and a mix of water, oil, and baking powder were the best egg substitutes. These two methods both delivered decent results during testing and created baked goods that were airy and fluffy in texture.

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    Julissa Roberts

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  • The Sheet Pan that Amazon Shoppers Are Obsessed With

    The Sheet Pan that Amazon Shoppers Are Obsessed With

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    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.

    What’s a great sheet pan, though? Well, say hello to the bestselling sheet pan on all of Amazon: the Nordic Ware Natural Aluminum Commercial Baker’s Big Sheet. It’s sturdy, is guaranteed to never rust or warp, and also boasts superior heat conductivity (so you don’t have to worry about pesky hot spots). Oh, and we almost forgot, it’s only $16!

    What is the Nordic Ware Natural Aluminum Commercial Baker’s Big Sheet?

    Made from pure aluminum, the Nordic Ware Natural Aluminum Commercial Baker’s Big Sheet is designed to last a lifetime. Aside from its durable, never-rust never-warp design, it’s also larger than the average sheet pan, holding more food than a standard sheet, allowing everything to bake and brown evenly. This workhorse also just so happens to be the go-to sheet pan of Angela Davis, the blogging extraordinaire behind The Kitchenista Diaries. We chatted with her recently and she confessed, “I love my heavy-duty sheet pan. Don’t just use a regular cookie sheet — there’s a big difference in the way they perform.”

    What Amazon Shoppers Are Saying

    Normally $28, you can save 44 percent on this baking sheet right now and nab it for just $16. So whether it’s for your next sheet pan dinner for a batch of your famous chocolate chip cookies, we think you’re going to love this sheet pan. After all, 8,000+ shoppers can’t be wrong, right?

    Do you have baking sheets that you love? We want to hear all about them! Tell us about your favorite finds in the comments below.

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    Lauren Masur

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  • I’ve Tested Nearly Every Piece of Induction Cookware on the Market. This Is a List of the Best of the Best.

    I’ve Tested Nearly Every Piece of Induction Cookware on the Market. This Is a List of the Best of the Best.

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    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.

    Fact: Just because a package or product listing describes a cookware set as induction-safe, that doesn’t mean it will actually cook well on an induction stovetop. In a lot of cases, the pot will heat up, but won’t actually cook evenly or quickly. And that’s clearly not great.

    In order for cookware to work AT ALL on an induction cooktop, pots and pans must be made of — or incorporate — magnetic steel. The easiest way to tell if something makes the cut is to test the bottom with a magnet. If the magnet sticks, the pot will heat up on an induction burner.

    Having said that, there are two types of induction-safe cookware: the type that features the same materials (like cast iron, stainless steel, or aluminum that’s encased in stainless steel) throughout the entire pan, and induction-safe cookware that feature walls made out of one material and a special magnetic disc on the bottom.

    Tip: You will get much better results if you choose a pan that’s the same size as the circle on your induction cooktop.

    What’s the difference between an induction cooktop and a regular one?

    Regular stovetops heat pots and pans through contact. Flames or electrical heating elements generate heat, and that heat is transferred through contact from the burner to the base of the pot in a process known as thermal conduction.

    Induction cooktops do not generate heat. Instead, induction burners have a coiled wire just below the ceramic surface, which generates an oscillating magnetic field. The electrons move around, creating an electric current, which in turn generates heat in the pot. Science!

    Got it? Now, keep reading to find out which sets are the best to buy.

    Fissler Profi 9-Piece Cookware Set

    The Best Induction Cookware Set

    This gorgeous cookware set costs a pretty penny, but it should last you a lifetime. Each piece has a thick base that extends all the way to the edges (unlike other pots and pans that have more rounded walls), making perfect contact with an induction cooktop and giving you even browning all across the bottom.

    You’ll also find rims that help prevent spills and inside measurement marks, so you know just how much milk to add to chocolate pudding without pulling out a measuring cup. The lids fit tightly, which is great for steaming rice. Profi can go in the oven up to 425°F for cooking a frittata and is safe for dishwasher cleaning, although, like all stainless steel, it may take a bit of hand work to keep it in pristine condition.

    Second opinion: “Flawless, heavy-duty, high-quality!” says one reviewer. “The pots are well worth the money. They are made so well, they will probably last a few lifetimes before I can use their warranty. The lids are heavy, so you won’t have to worry about the boiling pot spitting all over your oven. The pots boil so evenly, there is no hotter spot … even heat all the way. And these pots do not cool down fast — they keep the food hot (not warm) for at least one to two hours. The handles also stay cool. Best thing is I won’t have to worry about replacing/buying pots again. Excellent product from trusty brand.”

    Anolon Nouvelle Copper Stainless Steel Cookware Set

    The Best Budget-Friendly Induction Cookware Set

    With a layer of copper in addition to aluminum inside the base, this collection gives absolutely even heating on an induction burner. The pots have a pretty-yet-functional tulip shape and the fry pans are deep and flared, which makes them great for both simmering a chicken stew and rolling out an omelet.

    And because they can go in the oven to 500°F, you can crisp up a topping on a skillet casserole or brown off a piece of fish. Here, too, you’ll have to work a bit to keep the surfaces stain-free. And if you want the thin rim of copper around the base to stay shiny, you’ll need to pull out the copper polish. That said, it’s not all that hard to keep these looking like new.

    Second opinion: “I got this set for my mom and she’s had zero complaints. And trust me, I’d hear about it if she did,” joked former Lifestyle Director, Lisa Freedman. “Plus, I get to cook with this stuff every time I go to visit and I’m impressed time after time. I have a gas stove and am considering getting myself a set, too.”

    Circulon Symmetry Hard Anodized Aluminum Nonstick Cookware Set

    The Best Nonstick Induction Cookware Set

    This cookware offers great performance on induction burners combined with easy use and care. With silicone handles, they’re super comfy to hold when you’re flipping mushrooms or serving up tomato soup. A nonstick coating on both the inside and the outside makes cleanup a breeze, whether you’re washing by hand or machine. You can choose between basic black, chocolate brown, or merlot for the exterior.

    Second opinion: “Love this cookware!” says one reviewer, “Lives up to all my expectations — truly nonstick, no need for a spray, washes easily, cooks evenly. And I don’t have to yell at my husband anymore for using metal utensils and ruining the cookware — it does NOT scratch!”

    Why You Should Trust Our Gear Pro

    For more than 30 years, I was in charge of testing and reporting on everything from wooden spoons to connected refrigerators at the Good Housekeeping Institute. I’ve walked the floors of every trade show and read every new product release for longer than most digital publications have existed!

    My street cred? I also worked as a chef in New York City restaurants for seven years.

    I’ve tested, used, and played with nearly every piece of kitchen gear (including pots and pans) to come on the market for years. When it comes to gear, it takes a lot to impress me, and I know what actually works.

    Picked by a Pro. Tested by Real Home Cooks.

    I’ve tested what feels like every piece of induction cookware on the market (at all the price points, low to high!) and these are my all-time favorites. But you don’t have to take my word and my word alone, either. Kitchn editors — a unique hybrid of professionals and home cooks, who develop and test great recipes in real home kitchens — and real Amazon shoppers weighed in on some of these picks too, testing my favorites in the context of their actual home cooking.

    After all, when it comes to kitchen gear, what matters is that it works for a home cook — not just that a chef endorses it, or that it passed some high-flying bar in a sterile test kitchen. You want gear that is above all, practical, long-lasting, and mindful of real cooks, real kitchens, and real budgets.

    Do you have an induction cooktop? If so, what are the pots and pans that you use? Tell us in the comments below!

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    Sharon Franke

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  • Shoppers Drive 200 Miles to Trader Joe’s for This $5 Freezer Find

    Shoppers Drive 200 Miles to Trader Joe’s for This $5 Freezer Find

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    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.

    No matter how you feel about it, there’s no denying that the most popular item sold at Trader Joe’s is its Mandarin Orange Chicken. I used to work for Trader Joe’s, so I know firsthand how wild the frenzy can get about this frozen delight. In the South, where my particular store is, some folks would travel up to 200 miles just to stock up for the month on all of their frozen standbys (cooler bags and ice packs in tow!), which often meant bags upon bags of Mandarin Orange Chicken.

    As for me, there are certain Trader Joe’s items that hold such specific taste memories for me — and Mandarin Orange Chicken is one of the most vivid. It was my college standby meal, for when the devil on my shoulder said, “We could just get Panda Express, couldn’t we?” and the angel on my shoulder said, “Saving money is also really cool, you know.” In this case, the Mandarin Orange Chicken was the perfect compromise, although I think my post-grad spin on this frozen item just might be even better. 

    What’s So Great About Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken?

    Much like the Chinese American takeout classic it emulates, the Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken has breaded nuggets of dark meat chicken that crisp up to a golden-brown in the oven (or, better yet, air fryer) for eight to 10 minutes. When tossed with the accompanying sweet-spicy-sticky orange sauce, it’s a great break-in-case-of-emergency meal to keep on hand when your DoorDash/Uber Eats/Postmates apps start sending you the siren song of coupons and alerts. Served with fluffy rice, roasted broccoli (which you can even roast alongside your chicken), and a sprinkling of green onions and chili crunch for a meal that’ll have you go, “Takeout, who?”

    Full disclaimer: Trader Joe’s serving sizes are sort of a punchline all their own. This bag says it serves five, but for me it solidly serves my hunger levels at a solid 2.5 servings (two entrées plus a little cheeky bowl for when midnight snack time comes around), so proceed with those portions in mind if you’re looking to serve the whole fam. 

    What’s the Best Way to Use Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken?

    On their own, the nuggets are flavored pretty neutrally, so they are a great open-access protein for all kinds of riffing, which I love doing when I want a sauce that’s less on the sweet side (and it is pretty sweet!). I often use it as a shortcut for fried and breaded chicken dishes, like brushing it with a Nashville chicken-style spicy oil for mini sliders and mimicking other takeout favorites by mixing up a Korean-inspired gochujang BBQ sauce to coat it and serve alongside plenty of banchan.

    If I really want to put dinner on easy mode, I’ll toss it with another sauce like Buffalo, honey mustard, or a sticky BBQ (like Sweet Baby Ray’s) for throwing into a wrap or topping an easy workday-friendly lunch salad that my college self would be very impressed by. 

    Find it in stores: Trader Joe’s Mandarin Orange Chicken, $4.99 for 22 ounces

    Have you tried Trader Joe’s iconic Mandarin Orange Chicken? Tell us about it in the comments below.

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    Mackenzie Filson

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  • I Splurged on This Top-of-the-Line Coffee Maker and Have Zero Regrets

    I Splurged on This Top-of-the-Line Coffee Maker and Have Zero Regrets

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    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.

    From a truckload of house plants to a DIY knit-your-own-blanket kit to a sunlounger (even though I don’t have an inch of outdoor space), I have made more than a few questionable shopping decisions over the past few years. But the heftiest of all? A $750 Breville espresso machine that I impulsively bought way back during a midnight shopping spree amid quarantine. First, let me say that I realize I am lucky that I have a job and a steady paycheck. And that this is the most expensive kitchen gadget I have ever owned. But despite my rushed decision, I don’t regret this indulgence at all. On the contrary, it might be the best thing I have done for myself in a very long time.

    You see, I, like many, used to start my day with a quick latte stop at my local coffee shop and followed that up with several cups of coffee throughout the day once I got to the office. All this is to simply say that I love my coffee and can’t function without it. So back when WFH orders were issued and coffee shops temporarily shut down, I was left to my own devices to supply my daily coffee needs, and let me tell you, copious cups of black coffee made in a French press can get old rather quickly. But ever since I picked up the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine, I have been able to enjoy a huge variety of cafe-style brews right at home — and I couldn’t be happier.

    What is the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine?

    The Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine is a workhorse; it pulls espresso shots like a total pro, while the steam wand (it does a 360-degree swivel!) heats and froths milk for delicious cappuccinos, lattes, and more. I also really love that it has a built-in water heater so I can simply top my espresso shot with piping hot water for a cup of black coffee or make a cup of tea without using a kettle. During hot days, I swap hot water for tap and ice cubes for a refreshing cold brew. It truly does it all.

    While the machine does look intimidating, it’s actually incredibly easy to use. Once I set it up to suit my grind size (thank you, YouTube tutorials), I was able to whip up a cup of coffee within minutes: Turn on the power, use the puck to get the right amount of freshly ground beans, pull an espresso shot, and then use the milk wand to create just the desired amount of froth and heat. Easy!

    Why I Love the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine

    This machine comes with everything you need, including a bean hopper and grinder, a tamper, four filter baskets, a steel milk jug, a coffee scoop, a razor dose trimming tool, and even cleaning supplies for when it’s time to descale the machine. Although I was worried the coffee maker would take up too much counter space in my tiny kitchen, it has a very compact footprint. And my favorite feature? The top portion works like a mug warmer. Let me tell you, nothing beats the joy of wrapping my fingers around a warm mug before the start of a hectic workday.

    This coffee maker has also given me the flexibility to choose my own beans, milk, sugar, and toppings rather than rely on whatever is available at the coffee shop. For instance, I used to stick to regular milk and brown sugar, but now I use oat milk and coconut sugar, which feels like such an upgrade. I have also experimented with tons of coffee beans and discovered so many new flavors and favorites.

    And It’s Not Just Me Who Loves It

    Our Managing Editor, Lauren, also bought this espresso maker during quarantine and is still equally smitten. “My husband and I are new parents, so our espresso machine is our most beloved appliance right now,” she says. “When we’re groggy-eyed and sleep-deprived, we know we can have a perfect shot of espresso with basically a push of a button. Also, being able to have an oat milk latte without leaving our house now is such a treat!” Agreed!

    At $699.95, the Breville Barista Express Espresso Machine is definitely a significant investment, but think of all the money you’ll save creating all your favorite café-style drinks at home! Plus, if you’re looking for the perfect way to spoil the coffee lover in your life this holiday season, I can guarantee this pick will put a smile on their face — it’s still putting one on mine!

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    Sholeen Damarwala

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  • The $14 Meat Thermometer That Amazon Shoppers Are Obsessed With

    The $14 Meat Thermometer That Amazon Shoppers Are Obsessed With

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    “About three years ago I saved up and bought a Thermapen for about $100 because the reviews were excellent. I have used it ever since, and love it. I wanted another, less-expensive one for travel, so I took a chance, and got this one. As soon as I got it, I wanted to test the speed and accuracy. I tried it, side by side, on some bread just coming out of the oven. They showed the same temp within a second of each other. I tried it again this morning on boiling water for my tea. Exactly the same temp in exactly the same amount of time. I don’t know if it will hold up long-term, but I’m really happy.”

    “The product is plastic, so my first thought was that it was a cheap product. To my surprise, this thermometer works like the ThermaPen — at a fraction of the cost. It is handy and gives the temperature close enough to instantly for my satisfaction. The probe pops out with the push of a button. There is a simple on/off button to save on battery life, which uses a standard AAA (included) and not an expensive button type. Great addition to my kitchen.”

    “I waited to write a review because I wanted to really test it before drawing any conclusions. I’ve used this on pork roasts, a turkey, a couple of baked chickens, and candy. I compared the temps on this device with those from an older, differently branded thermometer, and they are nearly identical. I’d say it’s as accurate as any other similarly priced thermometer and a bit better than my old, more expensive one. It’s easy to clean, small for storage, and comes with a hook for hanging, which make it a great kitchen tool. I would definitely buy it again and would happily recommend it to anyone looking for a food thermometer.”

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    Lauren Masur

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  • 34 Thanksgiving Sides You Can Bring to Friendsgiving

    34 Thanksgiving Sides You Can Bring to Friendsgiving

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    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.

    Slaws and Salads

    Bring something totally fresh to the side dish lineup and you will be the hero of Friendsgiving. Trust me — everyone always appreciates something on the healthy-ish side to balance all the stuffing, mashed potatoes, and pie.

    2 / 7

    Thanksgiving Slaw

    This festive slaw won’t wilt like other green salads and can sit out for a while, making it a great addition to the spread.

    Go to Recipe

    3 / 7

    Kale Slaw

    This easy slaw features pre-shredded cruciferous vegetables, almonds, and dried cherries in a tangy honey-mustard dressing.

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    Stuffing

    This feast is not complete without stuffing. But save the traditional recipes for dinner with your family. Your Friendsgiving lineup deserves a stuffing with a twist. Whether you grill the bread, start with everything bagels, or go with a Syrian-inspired recipe, you can’t go wrong.

    2 / 6

    Everything Bagel Stuffing

    Why leave bagels just for breakfast? Here they replace the usual suspects like sourdough or challah for a unique Thanksgiving stuffing that’s sure to be the talk of the table.

    Go to Recipe

    5 / 6

    Sicilian Meatball Stuffing

    The combination of sweet golden raisins and meaty beef and veal is a flavor combo that works really well together, especially with the added saltiness of grated Parmesan cheese and buttery pine nuts.

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    Potatoes

    When it comes to potatoes, a basic creamy mash is just the beginning. From cheesy puffs to luscious sweet potatoes, there is something here for everyone.

    3 / 7

    Au Gratin Potatoes

    Au gratin potatoes are one of the greatest casseroles of all time. Tender, fluffy potatoes are bathed in a rich and creamy cheese sauce, then baked in a hot oven until bubbly and crisp.

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    Cranberry Sauce and Veggie Sides

    You can’t have a Friendsgiving feast without the sides. From a fig-cranberry sauce to mashed cauliflower, these side dishes are guaranteed to be hits.

    4 / 7

    Carrot Soufflé

    Puréed carrots, eggs, milk, and cheddar cheese get blended into a soufflé base that puffs beautifully into a light, airy, almost custard-like side dish.

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    Casseroles

    When it comes to serving a crowd, casseroles are always a good idea. These totally comforting sides are easy to pull together, and often make a great addition for any vegetarian or gluten-free friends.

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    Kelli Foster

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  • 38 Essential Vegetarian Side Dishes for Thanksgiving

    38 Essential Vegetarian Side Dishes for Thanksgiving

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    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.

    Vegetarian Vegetable Sides

    From mashed potatoes to green beans to Brussels sprouts and everything in between, this line up has all the heavy hitters.

    4 / 16

    Vegan Green Bean Casserole

    The fall time casserole we know and love gets dairy-free makeover, and a grown-up upgrade with homemade crispy shallots. The number of pans required to make it? Just one.

    Go to Recipe

    5 / 16

    Scalloped Sweet Potatoes

    Swap out the traditional scalloped potatoes at your table this year with something a bit more colorful. This sweet potato version is made fragrant with fresh thyme and ground nutmeg, and decadent with heavy cream and Gruyère cheese.

    Go to Recipe

    6 / 16

    Make-Ahead Mashed Potato Casserole

    While most mashed potato recipes need to be made soon before serving, this casserole actually taste better when made in advance. You can assemble it up to two days ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready.

    Go to Recipe

    7 / 16

    Honey-Mustard Brussels Sprouts

    The best part about this side dish is that you most likely have the ingredients for the sauce in your pantry already. Whole-grain mustard, apple cider vinegar, honey, and soy sauce is all it takes.

    Go to Recipe

    Easy Vegetarian Sides

    Need a side that’s guaranteed to please the table *and* easy to whip up? These are the sides that deliver.

    2 / 12

    Roasted Delicata Squash

    Delicata squash is easy to love. It requires minimal prep (no peeling necessary!), it’s surprisingly easy to slice, and its flavor is delightful: nutty and slightly sweet.

    Go to Recipe

    3 / 12

    Classic Sage Stuffing

    This is bread stuffing in its simplest form, and that’s exactly why it’s so great. The lack of fancy additions to the mix makes it one that will always find a welcome place at the Thanksgiving table.

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    5 / 12

    Potato Dough Rolls

    Relying on instant mashed potatoes makes these incredibly tender rolls a snap to put together. Since they’ll be such a hit with vegetarians and omnivores alike, it wouldn’t hurt to make a double batch.

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    8 / 12

    Broccoli Rabe and White Bean Gratin

    This isn’t one of those heavy, extra-creamy gratins that usually graces the Thanksgiving table. Instead, it’s hearty and wholesome, thanks to the beans and greens, and it’s hit with only a splash of whole milk.

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    9 / 12

    Everything Bagel Stuffing

    Everything bagels are too tasty and too packed with flavor to be limited to breakfast. Here they are used as the base in this quirky stuffing that’s flecked with scallions and enriched with a touch of cream.

    Go to Recipe

    Fancy Vegetarian Sides

    Each of these sides has a little something extra that makes them feel like an extra-special addition to the table.

    7 / 10

    Pumpkin Risotto

    This stunning, orange-hued risotto is guaranteed to be a hit at the Thanksgiving table. Just be sure to make it right before eating, as it’s not a dish that sits well.

    Go to Recipe

    8 / 10

    Fig Cranberry Sauce

    The rich sweetness of dried figs is a wonderful contrast to the cranberries, while a splash of whiskey really makes it feel like a cranberry sauce that’s dressed up for the holidays.

    Go to Recipe

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    Sheela Prakash

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  • 42 Fresh and Vibrant Salads That Will Brighten Your Thanksgiving Table

    42 Fresh and Vibrant Salads That Will Brighten Your Thanksgiving Table

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    Chicory Salad with Anchovy Dressing

    If you like Caesar salad, like real Caesar salad with plenty of anchovies and garlic, then this is the salad for you. Because this salad is packed with sturdy, zippy chicories, like endive and radicchio, it won’t wilt quickly and can actually benefit from sitting in the dressing a bit to mellow out.

    Go to Recipe

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    Kelli Foster

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  • Air Fryer Grilled Cheese Sandwiches Are Golden, Gooey, and Absolutely Foolproof

    Air Fryer Grilled Cheese Sandwiches Are Golden, Gooey, and Absolutely Foolproof

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    Want crispy bread and gooey cheese every time you make a grilled cheese? Your air fryer is the answer.
    READ MORE…

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    Meghan Splawn

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  • This Easy Homemade Spice Mix Is My Secret Fall Baking ingredient

    This Easy Homemade Spice Mix Is My Secret Fall Baking ingredient

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    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.

    During fall, pumpkin spice-flavored treats make their appearance just about, well, everywhere. But do you even know what’s in it? Here’s what it is and why you should make it at home. (Hint: It’s as easy as it gets!)

    Is There Actually Pumpkin in Pumpkin Spice?

    For years, I thought pumpkin pie spice really had pumpkin in it. But there’s no actual pumpkin in pumpkin pie spice. It’s simply a blend of the traditional spices that go into a good ol’ fashioned pumpkin pie.

    Read more: Pumpkin Spice Is Not Actually What Pumpkin Tastes Like

    What’s in Pumpkin Pie Spice?

    If you go the store-bought route, pumpkin pie spice blends can vary by manufacturer, but typically contain the more sweet-smelling spices, like cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, and ginger. Allspice and mace are also common ingredients.

    What’s the Best Ratio of Spices?

    The most classic blend puts cinnamon front and center, with slightly less ginger and just a pinch of allspice, cloves, mace, and nutmeg. But making the blend from scratch means you get to choose the ratio!

    Go for some extra ginger, or skip the cloves if you can’t stand the flavor. Trust me, once you’ve made your own, you’ll never want to buy a commercial blend again.

    Why Should I Make My Own?

    In addition to being able to customize it to your liking, making your own spice blend costs less than buying a big jar of something pre-made, especially if you already have most of the spices. It’s also better to make smaller batches so you use up the blend before it starts to go stale and loses its flavor.

    How Do I Use Pumpkin Pie Spice?

    While you can use it to flavor your morning latte, pies, and other baked goods, you can also sprinkle it over hard squash before roasting, spice up some whipped cream, or mix it into some yogurt or ice cream base — it’s quite a versatile spice blend.

    Ways to Use Pumpkin Pie Spice

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    Christine Gallary

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  • Memorize This Simple Formula for the Best Roasted Root Vegetables

    Memorize This Simple Formula for the Best Roasted Root Vegetables

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    I like to think of this as more of a formula. It’s designed to work with any and all root vegetables, and you can mix and match them to your liking. So grab whatever you’re in the mood for, whatever looks best at the farmers market, or whatever you currently have in your kitchen — be it carrots, parsnips, sweet potatoes, beets, turnips, or rutabagas.

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    Sheela Prakash

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