How-To

Taking Care of Your Stainless Steel Appliances

Posted on November 18, 2020November 18, 2020Posted in Appliances 101, How-To, KitchenTagged clean, cosmo appliances, kitchen, kitchen appliances, tutorialNo Comments

Stainless steel is one of the sleekest modern finishes any appliance can have. As a matter of fact, it’s the most popular among dishwashers, ranges, and refrigerators sales. But as you may soon learn, stainless steel attracts fingerprints, smudges and streaks. There are many stainless steel cleaners on the market to bring the shine back to your appliances. But we’ve compiled some tricks if you’re looking for other cost saving alternatives. It’s always a good idea to refer to your product’s user manual on any cleaning recommendations. Always avoid scouring powders, steel wool, bleach, or ammonia as these can damage your appliance’s finish. Dish Soap. You can actually mix a mild soap detergent and warm water to help clean your stainless steel. Use a microfiber cloth and rub the solution into any marks, going with the grain of the stainless steel. Rinse with cold water and dry immediately with a clean cloth after. Mineral Oil. Apply a light coating of mineral oil and buff with a cloth to avoid any tacky buildup. Steer clear of any food-based oils such as vegetable or olive oil. These kinds of oils can turn rancid. Glass Cleaner. Spray a soft, dry cloth with a glass cleaner that is ammonia and vinegar-free to buff out any pesky fingerprints that may persist. Wipe the surface clean after. Baking Soda. Create a paste of baking soda and warm water, then apply to a soft cloth or sponge. Always remember to go with the grain of your appliance. Wipe with a clean wet cloth and dry with a towel. For any remaining scratches or stains you can utilize a stainless steel cleaner to the area. Sources: Good HouseKeeping , Consumer Reports Looking to learn more? Follow us on our Facebook and Instagram.

Mistakes to Avoid When Painting Cabinets

Posted on November 17, 2020November 17, 2020Posted in How-To, KitchenNo Comments

Changing cabinetry can be one of the most impactful visual changes in your kitchen. Some people may think this is a weekend job, painting your cabinets is a big project you want to properly plan. Check out the most important tips below on how to create the kitchen you want, while saving yourself a headache later on. Preparation is Key Take some time to understand the kind of cabinets you have. Wood materials paint differently than laminate and should influence the paint you’re buying. Flat-front doors and drawers are easily repainted, but woodwork with raised panels, routed profiles or other architectural detailing will require more time to prep and paint (see HGTV). Be sure to remove all the drawers and their hardware. Often people try to paint their cabinets as they currently stand which will result in problems later on. Removing the doors and hardware will ensure you have a careful painting process and reduce mistakes that will eventually have to be fixed. Mark all the doors and drawers, you want to know where they go once you’re done! Be sure to tape and cover everything else in your kitchen, the last thing you want is to accidentally get paint on something else. The Importance in Sanding According to GoodHouseKeeping, even if your cabinets are in near-perfect condition, you still have to sand them so the paint will stick. Use sandpaper in the middle of the spectrum (150 or 200 grit is good) and just give all of the surfaces a quick buffing. You just want to take the surface from glossy to matte. Your cabinets can have grease and dirt not visible to the eye that you definitely want to get rid of before painting. Skipping this step will result in paint chipping and peeling down the road. There’s no need to rid all the current color on the cabinets. Be sure to pay attention to the texture of the surface. Paint with Patience As previously mentioned, painting your cabinets is a long project that requires patience. Rushing the painting process can result in visible brush strokes, smudging or smearing. Apply paint in light, thin coats. Don’t lay the brush firmly on the cabinets as this will leave streaks and create air pockets or bubbles in the paint. Allow the paint to dry for at least four hours between coats. When dry, resand all surfaces lightly to prepare them for the second coat, wipe away all sanding dust with a tack cloth, then repaint. Two coats of quality paint are usually sufficient, but you may want to add a third coat because kitchen cabinets take lots of punishment from cooking heat and day-to-day use, and wood surfaces need all the protection they can get. Looking to learn more tips and tricks for your kitchen? Be sure to give us a follow over on our Facebook and Instagram.

Fire Up the Grill for Father’s Day

Posted on June 19, 2020October 14, 2020Posted in How-To, RecipesTagged dinner ideas, easy recipes, fathers day, recipeNo Comments

It’s a time to fire up the grill, slow down and enjoy father’s day. When you’re thinking about what to feed your family off the grill, it should be a breeze, and you shouldn’t have to choose between good and good for you. Consider these tips for creating healthier, flavorful meals you can feel confident serving. Keep it simple. Skip the complicated recipes that call for a wide variety of ingredients, a multitude of steps and long cook times. Instead, seek out products and dishes that are made with ingredients you recognize and have just a handful of instructions. This will ensure less time in the kitchen and more time with loved ones. Focus on seasonal, clean ingredients. Get inspired by your local farmer’s market. One of the best parts about summer is the abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables that can add flavor and nutrients to your plate. Don’t forget the sides. To balance your spread of burgers and hot dogs, consider serving fresh asparagus or sweet corn in place of other salty, processed options. Fruits like peaches and pineapple work well on the grill, too, but remember to group produce by similar cooking times. Aim for a quick and fun cleanup. Perhaps one of the most overlooked secrets to a stress-free meal is to cut down on cleanup. A backyard barbecue can be one of the easiest messes to maintain as most of the prep is done outside on the grill. Try setting up a buffet line on your deck or patio where your family can build their burgers with customized toppings, like cheese, veggies and sauces. Then add a little bit of fun by putting on your favorite music playlist to help make a simple, everyday meal feel even more special. Burger with Grilled Pineapple and Honey Garlic Barbecue Sauce Total time: 30 minutesServings: 2 2 rings freshly cored pineapple 2 Burger patties, thawed salt, to taste freshly ground black pepper, to taste1 cup baby arugula2 sesame seed burger buns, lightly toasted1/4 cup crispy fried onions2 tablespoons honey garlic barbecue sauce Heat grill to medium heat. Grill pineapple slices 4-5 minutes per side until grill-marked and slightly caramelized. Cut slices in half and set aside. Wipe down grill to cook burger patties. Season burger patties with salt and pepper, to taste. Grill 4-5 minutes per side until burgers are evenly browned with internal temperature of 165 F. To assemble, layer handful of baby arugula leaves on toasted bottom buns, top each with burger and two cut slices each of grilled pineapple. Sprinkle on crispy fried onions, drizzle with honey garlic barbecue sauce and place toasted sesame seed bun on top. Asian Marinated Grilled Shrimp Skewers 1 Pound large shrimp, shelled and de-veined (you can leave the tails on if you like, I took them off so we could shovel them in our mouths faster, ha!)3 Tbls unsalted butter2 Tbls soy sauce2 tsp lime juice, fresh squeezed1 tsp ginger, grated2 cloves garlic, minced1 1/2 Tbls sugar2 green onions, bruised but not chopped Place all ingredients except for the shrimp in a sauce pan over medium heat. Let come to a simmer then take off the heat and let cool on the counter. Place shrimp and marinade in a bag or bowl covered in plastic wrap and marinade for at least an hour in the fridge. Try to let marinade around 3-5 hours but not longer. Take shrimp out of marinade and place on skewers. If using wooden skewers, let these soak overnight in water. Grill over high heat until just cooked. Do not overcook or shrimp will become rubbery. This will only take about 3-4 minutes per side, depending how big the shrimp are. You can baste the shrimp with the marinade when they first hit the grill but after that, toss out the marinade. Serve and enjoy! These don’t need any condiments, they are super flavorful and moist on their own! Happy Father’s Day!

Appliance Talk: Difference Between a Rangetop & Cooktop?

Posted on June 18, 2020October 15, 2020Posted in Appliances 101, How-To, KitchenTagged cooking, cooktop, rangetop, small appliances, springNo Comments

When remodeling your kitchen, or designing a brand new one, then you’ll need to think about which appliances you need. There are essential appliances every well designed kitchen needs and this includes a cooking appliance such as you range or a cooktop to cook on. Will you choose a range top or cooktop? To make your purchase with confidence we have decided to break it down for ya! In this comparison between the range top vs cooktop, you will discover the similarities and differences between these two kitchen applications. First, Let’s discuss the similarities. Rangetops and cooktops have either gas or electric models, and either one offers the ability to have a more flexible kitchen layout, so oven and rangetop or cooktop can be placed separately. Now, on to the differences. The major difference between rangetops and cooktops is the control features and installation method, which will determine how your countertop and cabinets are designed. The Pros of a Range Top These are the perks: A rangetop is very much like a hybrid of a range and a cooktop. rangetop slides into an opening directly into your countertops Range tops are sturdy and can handle heavy use. Range tops can either be powered by electric or gas. Range tops have knobs and controls on the front, which come in handy when trying to manage you’re cooking with multiple items on the burners. Range tops have a larger cooking surface. Range tops typically come with more professional features than others of its kind on the market. Like the sound of these Pros? CLICK HERE The Cons of a Range Top These aren’t exactly cons but these are a few things to consider. The front knobs and controls of the range top may be a safety concern where small children are concerned. Range tops may be too large and bulky for smaller kitchens. The Pros of a Cooktop Cooktops have their pros too that make them a popular choice among many people. Cooktops are available in electric, gas, or induction cooking methods. In general a Cooktop are smaller than Rangetops so they take up less space in your kitchen. The knobs and controls of cooktops are found on top of the unit. This allows an increased level of safety since they are more difficult for young kids to reach. Cooktops are often easier to clean. Like the sound of these Pros? CLICK HERE The Cons of a Cooktop Cooktops have they’re drawbacks, too! Cooktops are more compact, with less room or space to move around. Cooktops often come with less professional features than range tops do. Rangetops are going to require more space but they are perfect for those who do a lot of cooking and want the normal grates and feeling of a stove top. On the other hand, if space, efficiency, and simple is what you are after, then a cooktop may be your ideal appliance. When determining which one is right for your kitchen before you waste your money, consider the following: The size of your kitchen is going to have a great impact on which one you choose. You will need to determine the space available and how much of it you are willing to give up. Determine the amount of cooking you typically do you are going to need something hefty, sturdy, and large to withstand your level of use. Think about the method of cooking electric, gas, or induction? What level of professional features are you looking for, do you prefer something simpler or more advanced for your needs? Getting a new appliance for your kitchen is always exciting. However, it is important to remember that appliances are not the type of item you buy on a whim. They require installation and space, in addition to the purchase itself.

Sensational Summer Recipes to Try this Weekend

Posted on June 12, 2020October 14, 2020Posted in How-To, RecipesTagged dinner ideas, easy recipes, recipeNo Comments

Whipping up a fresh cooked meal is one of the true joys of weekend summers, especially when grilled grub is paired with tantalizing sides and tempting desserts. Spice things up with Mexican Beef Sliders with Jalapeno Salsa and Avocado Cream coupled with a side like Roasted Potatoes then cap off a filling meal with these sweet and decadent Strawberry Cream Cheese Tartlets. If you’re looking for ways to mix meat and veggies all at once, these ideas for kebabs are a surefire way to please a variety of palates. Find more summer meal ideas at Culinary.net. Cook Up Kebabs As one of the most versatile main courses that can be grilled, kebabs offer nearly endless opportunities for customization. From protein to veggies, soaked wooden skewers can be loaded with just about any favorite flavors before hitting the grates. Consider these options for kicking your kebabs up a notch: Steak, cut into chunks Chicken, cut into chunks Bratwurst or sausage, cut into slices Ground beef, shaped into balls Lamb Shrimp Salmon, cut into chunks Bacon, cut into small pieces Sliced onions Sliced bell peppers Sliced jalapenos Sliced mushrooms Sliced cucumbers Cherry tomatoes Summer Sliders with a Spicy Kick Summer calls for firing up the grill for a fresh-cooked meal, and sliders are an ideal way to enjoy a downsized version of a warm weather favorite. These Mexican Beef Sliders with Jalapeno Salsa and Avocado Cream are perfect for summer with their spicy kick of salsa and bright, cooling cream. Made with grass-fed beef, these mini burgers boast a lean, finely textured meat that tastes just as nature intended. Mexican Beef Sliders with Jalapeno Salsa and Avocado Cream Prep time: 20 minutesCook time: 15 minutesServings: 4 Patties: 1 1/3 pounds lean grass-fed ground beef 1 clove garlic, crushed 1 medium onion, grated or finely chopped 1 egg, lightly beaten 3/4 cup red kidney beans, rinsed and drained 2 tablespoons tomato paste 3 teaspoons dried oregano, chopped 2 teaspoons mild smoked paprika 2 teaspoons ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated salt, to taste pepper, to taste olive oil Jalapeno Salsa: 1 cup cucumber, thinly sliced into long ribbons 3/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped 1 red onion, finely sliced 1/2 cup pickled jalapenos, finely chopped salt, to taste pepper, to taste olive oil lime juice Avocado Cream: 1 avocado, mashed 1/2 cup sour cream 1 lime, juice and zest only salt, to taste pepper, to taste 8-12 slider buns, halved 2-3 cobs sweet corn, cooked and sliced into shards 8-12 small bamboo skewers To make patties: In bowl, combine beef, garlic, onion, egg, kidney beans, tomato paste, oregano, paprika, cumin, coriander, Parmesan cheese, salt, to taste, and pepper, to taste. Shape into 8-12 small patties. Cover and refrigerate 15 minutes. Heat grill or frying pan to medium heat. Brush patties with oil on both sides. Cook 2-3 minutes on each side, turning once to brown both sides evenly, until cooked through. To make Jalapeno Salsa: In bowl, combine cucumber, cilantro, onion and jalapenos; season with salt and pepper, to taste. Drizzle with olive oil and lime juice. To make Avocado Cream: In bowl, combine avocado, sour cream, lime juice and lime zest; season with salt and pepper, to taste. Spread Avocado Cream on bottom buns and place patties on top. Top patties with Jalapeno Salsa, corn and top buns. Press down gently and poke in skewers to secure sliders. A Sweet Summer Treat Sweet flavors and warm weather go hand-in-hand, and many summer occasions and get-together call for dessert. Take advantage of warm weather favorites like strawberries and raspberries with these Strawberry Cream Cheese Mini Tarts. Made using the best berries nature can provide, these bite-size tarts feature a graham cracker crust base and an indulgent cream cheese filling flavored with sliced strawberries, honey and lemon topped with sweet, juicy strawberries and raspberries. Strawberry Cream Cheese Tarts Makes: 24 tarts (4 ounces each) 1/2 cup water 2 tablespoons lemon juice 3 tablespoons lemon zest 2 tablespoons gelatin 4 cups Well•Pict Strawberries, sliced, divided 1/3 cup honey 2 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese 1/2 cup sour cream 1 cup ice cubes 2 cups graham cracker crumbs 1/2 cup melted butter 1 cup Strawberries, rinsed, for garnish 1 cup Raspberries, rinsed, for garnish In blender, mix water, lemon juice, lemon zest and gelatin until frothy. Add 2 cups strawberries and honey; blend until smooth. Pour into bowl and chill mix 15 minutes. In blender, mix cream cheese, sour cream and ice cubes while incorporating strawberry mixture. Mix in remaining strawberries. In blender or food processor, mix graham crackers and melted butter to crumb consistency. Lightly grease two medium muffin pans and pack graham cracker mixture at bottom of each opening. Pour strawberry mixture over graham cracker mixture and chill until set. Gently pull tarts from muffin tins and place on serving tray. Garnish with strawberries and raspberries. Roasted and Ready to Serve Summer meals centered around grilled fare call for a complementary pairing that completes the classic profile of warm weather food. Using a versatile vegetable like potatoes allows you to think up different methods of cooking for a new flavor each time. While you’re focused on the main dish being grilled, these Roasted Potatoes can bake away indoors for a simple side that requires little attention. Roasted Potatoes 1 pound potatoes, chopped into 1-inch cubes 1/2 cup onion, chopped into 1-inch cubes 1/2 cup green pepper, chopped into 1-inch cubes 1 teaspoon garlic, finely chopped 1 teaspoon vegetable oil 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped 1/2 teaspoon paprika Preheat oven to 350° F. In medium bowl, mix potatoes, onions, green peppers and garlic. Add vegetable oil, salt, pepper, parsley and paprika. Mix well. Cover bowl and refrigerate 15 minutes. Spread potato mixture evenly on cookie sheet. Bake about 35 minutes. Photos courtesy of Getty Images (Kebabs and Roasted Potatoes)

Kitchen Ventilation: Downdraft vs. Island Hood

Posted on June 10, 2020October 14, 2020Posted in Appliances 101, How-To, KitchenTagged island hood, island range hood, range hood, small appliances, springNo Comments

Before you decide which type is best for your home it is important to learn about the difference between downdraft vs. hood fan ventilation. Island Hoods Island hoods are installed in a space where the stove does not have any adjacent walls. The vent is connected to a duct that is fixed to the ceiling — thereby transferring the smoke away. If you have an island layout for a kitchen, these are the best options. They look good and give your space an aesthetic appeal. There are different styles like these units by Cosmo Downdrafts A downdraft ventilation system, or pop-up vents use proximity ventilation to pull smoke and grease downward, versus traditional ventilation which captures exhaust as it goes up. Downdrafts look different than a larger hood aesthetically. You can see the whole kitchen. Downdraft vs. Island Hood Functionally, island hoods are considered to be better for a few reasons. What are the pros of an Island hood fan? More effective: Island Hoods are generally larger and more powerful and clean the air better, especially if you cook large meals often. Keep in mind, smoke rises so it simpler to redirect where it is already headed Visual interest: Today’s range hoods are not only functional, but they are beautiful as well. Oftentimes, a stylish, stainless-steel range hood can be the focal point of your kitchen.  CFM: The max power on a downdraft is 1,000 CFM versus 1,500-1,800 on an island hood. There are limitations because Downdraft vents only work for cooktops unless you specifically buy a downdraft range. Capture area: Smoke is first channeled, filtered and then exhausted. An island hood has plenty of capture area, but there is almost none in a downdraft. If you grill or wok, the downdraft will not be able to handle the smoke and grease. What are the pros of downdraft ventilation? While downdraft vents aren’t the ideal ventilation system for all kitchens, they can be an effective solution for certain situations. People like downdraft ventilation ranges for these reasons: No ductwork needed: You simply install the range and you’re done. Downdraft ventilation is invisible: Except when in use, a simple push of a button makes the vent rise and fall. Those looking for a sleek, minimal kitchen vibe will enjoy this feature. Pop-up vents take up less space: In a small kitchen, they can make room for more upper cabinets. Easy to Clean: Downdraft vents are easier to clean than full range hoods. In conclusion, adequate ventilation helps to remove excess heat and moisture from the room for superior comfort and temperature control. Downdraft ventilation is discreet, sophisticated, and effective in some instances. It’s perfect for those looking for an uncluttered seamless kitchen, and for providing ventilation for kitchens where traditional ventilation isn’t possible. There’s no denying that Island Range Hoods provide many important benefits like protection from toxins and unpleasant odors. An Island hood is an important asset to your home and your health. Shop Island Hood

5 Pro Tips for Remodeling Your Home

Posted on June 10, 2020October 14, 2020Posted in Appliances 101, How-ToTagged kitchen design, kitchen remodel, remodel, remodelingNo Comments

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic many Americans have spent a lot of time at home over the past few months, there have been plenty of opportunities to think about how that living space could be improved. While this may not be the ideal time to tackle a full gut and renovate project, it may still be possible to do some smaller scale remodeling projects that update and improve your home. For example, simple cosmetic repairs like painting and replacing vanities can make a noticeable difference with minimal work or investment. Or if you’re hesitant about bringing contractors into the house, outdoor projects like replacing fencing, adding paver stones or constructing outdoor living spaces may be a benefit for your family. Before you take on a project, consider these tips from Robi Kirsic, MCKBR, UDCP, chairman of the board of the National Association of the Remodeling Industry and co-CEO of TimeLine Renovation & Design. Define the Purpose The first consideration whether you’re making changes for yourself or for future resale is the purpose of your project. This determines everything from the budget to the materials you select. Remember projects in the kitchen and bathroom typically bring the greatest return on investment. It’s also a good idea to plan how you’ll use the renovated area. When possible, incorporate elements of universal design that don’t change how the space looks but will change how it works. For example, in the bathroom, install a curbless shower, taller toilet and block in walls to allow future installation of grab bars. Stick to a Budget Another early decision is your budget. It’s fruitless to spend time looking at materials and making design decisions based on products that exceed your budget or, conversely, fall below the quality level you prefer. Having a professional involved can help keep you from overspending and identify areas you may want to splurge or pull back. Select a Remodeler Friends and family can be great resources when it comes to choosing a remodeling contractor since they’re likely to give detailed and candid opinions about their experiences. When you begin interviewing companies yourself, verify they’re licensed and insured, and ask what they offer above those minimum requirements. Are they certified or accredited? Do they specialize in the type of work you’re considering? Also be sure to request and check references and search online for reviews. Conduct Virtual Meetings While some projects may require an in-person assessment, many planning sessions can be conducted virtually. You can even shop products to be used in your project virtually since online catalogs typically show a variety of colors and finishes along with prices. For items you need to see or feel to choose, like flooring, request samples to test in your home. To make your virtual meetings most productive, prepare by providing a detailed scope of work and be ready to provide measurements and show the space cleared of clutter. Keep it Safe For some families, sticking to outdoor projects may be more comfortable in the short term. For those who are ready to bring contractors inside, there are numerous steps you can take to create a safer working environment. Examples include asking everyone involved to wear face masks and gloves and using plastic at doorways to keep the work area separate from the living area. Regular disinfecting and a thorough cleaning at the end of the project are also important preventive steps. Find more remodeling resources, including certified contractors in your community, at RemodelingDoneRight.com SOURCE: National Association of the Remodeling Industry

How to Load a Dishwasher 101

Posted on June 5, 2020October 14, 2020Posted in Appliances 101, How-To, KitchenTagged dishwasherNo Comments

There are several essentials tips to keep in mind for the best way to load a dishwasher. Depending on the brand a dishwasher has different racks and internal workings, meaning each has a unique loading pattern. Consult your manufacturer’s instructions about how to load your dishwasher to ensure you get the most effective cleaning. Pre-rinse any dishes that will sit in the dishwasher for a while before you run a cycle. Some items — like cast iron cookware — should never go in this machine. Make sure you know what not to put in the dishwasher. Don’t stack dishes, as this prevents the sprayer from reaching everywhere. Make sure plastic items are secure, so they don’t get knocked loose. If they are unsettled and get too close to the heating element, they can melt. Avoid crowding the dishwasher, as this can lead to dishes getting broken or not being washed effectively. Loading Silverware in a Dishwasher Loading silverware in the dishwasher should be a no brainer, You just drop it in, right? Well, there’s a bit more to it. When possible, mix forks, spoons and knives to prevent them from nesting. Load some utensils — like forks and spoons — with handles facing down. Knives should be loaded with the handles facing up so that you don’t cut yourself. Keep silver-plated utensils and stainless steel utensils separate to prevent damage to your good silver. How to Load Large Items Larger dishes like plates, casserole dishes, dishwasher-safe baking sheets and mixing bowls should be loaded on the bottom rack. But there are a few things you might not be aware of. Make sure the largest items are positioned towards the sides and the back of the rack. (This will allow the water to circulate more evenly.) Load dishes so that the side that is dirty faces the sprayer. Space out larger items to ensure they’re properly cleaned. . Many non-stick pots and pans should be washed by hand, don’t assume they are dishwasher safe, it’s best to always consult the care instructions. How to Load Smaller Items in Your Dishwasher As it goes, the top rack is reserved for smaller items, such as coffee mugs, small bowls and glasses. Make the most of each dishwashing cycle with these tips. Place items in between the tines on the rack to prevent water spots. Load cups and mugs at an angle — with the inside of the cup facing the sprayer — to help limit pooling. Unload the bottom rack first so that any liquid that has puddled in cups or mugs doesn’t splash on clean dishes. Skip the dishwasher when it comes to cleaning wine glasses, as their delicate globes and stems can easily break. Load dishwasher-safe plastic food storage containers and other plastic items on the top rack — and far away from the heating element — to help prevent warping and buckling. Need to upgrade your current dishwasher? Consider the Cosmo Built-in Dishwasher. SHOP HERE For more great recipes, tips and appliance news, follow us on Facebook or Instagram.

Quarantine Cooking-Insanely Good-for-You Treats

Posted on June 3, 2020October 14, 2020Posted in How-To, RecipesTagged dinner ideas, easy recipes, recipeNo Comments

While eating healthy and enjoying sweets seldom go hand-in-hand, choosing the right combination of nutritious ingredients can allow for guilt-free indulgences that shirks conventional dieting wisdom. In fact, some eating plans take it a step further by actually encouraging eating big in the evening when you’re naturally hungriest to help achieve your weight loss goals. Fruit Tarts Recipe courtesy of “Always Eat After 7 PM”Prep time: 40 minutesCook time: 1 hour, 20 minutesServings: 20 Custard: 8 egg yolks 1 cup raw honey 1 tablespoon coconut flour 3 cans (13 2/3 ounces each) full-fat coconut milk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest Sugar Cookie Crust: 1/2 cup coconut oil, plus additional for greasing 1/2 cup palm shortening 1 cup coconut palm sugar 1 teaspoon baking soda 1 teaspoon cream of tartar 1/4 teaspoon salt 3 egg yolks 1⁄2 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 cup blanched almond flour 1⁄4 cup coconut flour 2 tablespoons arrowroot starch Toppings: 2 kiwis, peeled and sliced 1 mango, peeled, pitted and sliced into 1/2-inch strips 1/2 cup raspberries 1/2 cup blackberries 1/2 cup blueberries 1/2 cup red grapes 1 cup strawberries, thinly sliced fresh mint leaves, for garnish To make custard: In saucepan, whisk egg yolks and honey until smooth. Mix in coconut flour. In medium saucepan over medium heat, combine coconut milk, vanilla extract and lemon zest; bring to boil then remove from heat. Pour hot milk mixture into egg yolk mixture, stirring while pouring. Over low heat, simmer 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and let cool, continuing to stir occasionally. Once cooled to room temperature, pour into individual custard cups. Chill in refrigerator 30 minutes, or until serving. To make crust: Heat oven to 350° F. Line bottom of pie pan with parchment paper and grease with coconut oil. In large mixing bowl using electric mixer on high, beat coconut oil and palm shortening 30 seconds. Add coconut palm sugar, baking soda, cream of tartar and salt; beat until combined, scraping sides of bowl occasionally. Beat in egg yolks and vanilla until combined. Beat in almond flour, coconut flour and starch. Chill dough in refrigerator 15 minutes. Press chilled cookie dough into bottom of pie pan and 2 inches up sides. Bake 12 minutes, or until crust is golden and browned on top and edges. Remove from oven and cool 10 minutes. Place cooled crust in refrigerator 30 minutes or overnight before assembling. To assemble fruit tarts: Spread custard over chilled crust. Decorate top in circular pattern with kiwis, mango strips, raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, grapes and strawberries. Before serving, chill at least 30 minutes or freeze 1 hour to help keep toppings in place. Remove from freezer and set out at room temperature 20 minutes before slicing. Garnish with mint leaves. Nutritional information per serving: 192 calories; 14 g fat; 16 g carbohydrates; 61 mg sodium; 2 g fiber; 1 g protein; 9 g sugar. Cherry Garcia Ice Cream Recipe courtesy of “Always Eat After 7 PM”Prep time: 10 minutesServings: 4 1/4 cup fresh Bing cherries, pitted and halved 1/4 cup stevia-sweetened dark chocolate bar, chopped 3 overripe frozen bananas, peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut milk 1 pinch sea salt Chill cherries and dark chocolate. In food processor, pulse frozen bananas, milk and salt until smooth, creamy consistency of soft serve is achieved. Stir in cherries and chocolate. Serve immediately or place in freezer-safe container and freeze until serving. Nutritional information per serving: 165 calories; 7 g fat; 27 g carbohydrates; 134 mg sodium; 6 g fiber; 2 protein; 12 g sugar. No Bake Salted Caramel Bars Recipe courtesy of “Always Eat After 7 PM”Prep time: 30 minutesCook time: 40 minutesServings: 30 Cookie Layer: 2 1/2 cups raw pecans 8 pitted dates, soaked in hot water 10 minutes then drained 2 tablespoons blanched almond flour 1 teaspoon coconut flour 1/4 teaspoon sea salt 1/4 cup granular zero-calorie, natural sweetener 3 tablespoons coconut oil, melted Caramel Layer: 1/2 cup coconut palm sugar 1/2 cup granular zero-calorie, natural sweetener 2 tablespoons full-fat coconut milk 2 tablespoons coconut oil 1 pinch sea salt 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon baking soda Chocolate Layer: 2 cups stevia-sweetened chocolate chips 2 tablespoons coconut oil coconut oil 1/3 cup dry roasted macadamia nuts, chopped coarse sea salt To make cookie layer: Place large skillet over medium heat. Spread pecans over skillet and toast, stirring often, 8-10 minutes until golden. Remove from heat. Transfer toasted pecans to food processor and pulse until fine. Add dates, almond flour, coconut flour, sea salt, sweetener and coconut oil; pulse until dough forms. To make caramel layer: In skillet over medium heat, combine coconut palm sugar, sweetener, coconut milk, coconut oil, sea salt and vanilla extract; bring to boil. Once boiling, decrease heat to low and cook 5 minutes, stirring often. Remove skillet from heat; whisk in baking soda. Return pan to low heat and cook 2 minutes, stirring often. Remove caramel from heat and let cool and thicken 5 minutes. To make chocolate layer: In double boiler, melt chocolate chips and coconut oil. Stir until mixture is smooth then remove from heat. To assemble salted caramel bars: Line bottom and sides of 9-by-9-inch baking pan with parchment paper, leaving some hanging over sides. Lightly rub parchment paper with coconut oil. Press cookie dough into bottom of pan to create even layer. Place in freezer 5 minutes to harden. Pour caramel over cookie layer and spread to coat evenly. Place in freezer 5 minutes. Pour chocolate over caramel and spread to cover evenly. Sprinkle with macadamia nuts and coarse salt. Place in freezer 10 minutes until chocolate sets. Use overhanging parchment paper to ease set mixture out of pan. Transfer to cutting board and slice into bite-size bars. Nutritional information per serving: 180 calories; 15 g fat; 15 g carbohydrates; 56 mg sodium; 4 g fiber; 2 g protein; 4 g sugar.

Essential Pantry Staples to Have on Hand

Posted on May 28, 2020October 14, 2020Posted in Family, How-To, RecipesTagged cooking, cooking at home, foodNo Comments

Keeping a well-stocked pantry ensures you can pull together a quality meal on a moment’s notice or when unexpected circumstances keep you from making it to the store. In many homes, the pantry is filled with mismatched odds and ends that may not fit together, but you can shop smart to gather basic ingredients you need for a wide range of recipes. Spices: A robust spice rack lets you customize all the other ingredients for dishes as simple or complex as you like. As you’re building a spice collection, start with basics like salt, pepper and garlic powder. Also add some of your favorite dried herbs like basil, thyme and ginger then build the rest of your supply around your favorite foods so you can easily create familiar dishes with what you have on hand. Protein: You may be surprised by how many protein options can be stored in your pantry. Aside from nuts, beans and peanut butter, keeping a selection of canned seafood can allow you to create well-balanced, protein-rich dishes whether you’re topping a salad, adding the finishing touch to your favorite pasta, filling a wrap or more. For example, wild-caught canned tuna or salmon can be the foundation for a multitude of recipes. Oils: When used in moderation, oils are an essential cooking ingredient that add flavor and depth. Extra-virgin olive oil can be used for everything from sauteing proteins and drizzling over veggies to creating dips and dressings. Many home cooks also favor canola oil as a neutral cooking oil that can be used in a wide range of preparations. Grains and Pastas: Most pastas have a long shelf-life, making them a great addition to a well-stocked pantry. Pasta and grains can be the foundation of a meal when paired with sauce and protein or veggies, or as an easy side dish. Include your favorite styles of regular pasta along with options like couscous, quinoa and rice. Canned Vegetables: You can pack in plenty of healthy nutrients without a trip to the farmer’s market or produce section. Put your personal touch on canned veggies to enhance their flavor, like adding some onion (or onion powder or flakes), salt and pepper to cut green beans. Be sure to keep plenty of choices on hand for vegetables you enjoy eating on their own and ones you might use as ingredients. Broth or Stock: Whether you use it as the base for a delicious soup or to add flavor in countless other recipes, broth and stock can be found with both meat and vegetable bases so you can easily create sauces and more. Condiments: These sauces and accompaniments help perk up your favorite foods. There’s no standard list of right and wrong, but staples like ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, barbecue, soy and hot sauce top many people’s must-have lists.