Why Does Soda Bubble

Manufacturing

Manufacturers add the fizz to soda in the bottling process by incorporating carbon dioxide and water into the can or bottle at a pressure of nearly 1,200 pounds per square inch. If you were to view to bottle before opening, you would notice very few bubbles appearing in the liquid. This is because the pressure inside the can or bottle causes the carbon dioxide to remain dissolved in the liquid.

The Trigger Effect

Opening the bottle or can creates a trigger effect that releases the pressure inside, allowing the carbon dioxide to break free from the liquid inside. This causes the carbon dioxide to rise to the surface and bubble. While bubbling, the excess carbon dioxide begins to escape into the air. In addition to the trigger effect set off by opening the can or bottle, shaking it before opening can create extra energy contained inside the can. This energy is known as kinetic energy. Once opened, this energy is released in greater amounts and can result in spewing over the top of the can or bottle.

Flattening of a Soda

The carbon dioxide and fizz in a soda can help to give it a tangy taste. Over time, the carbon dioxide escapes the bottle or can and the soda becomes "flat." This can occur naturally over time as the bubbles begin to seep to the surface, or it can be accelerated due to influences such as heat that cause the carbon dioxide to release more quickly. Adding ice cubes to the soda may also speed up the reaction, causing continuous fizz, particularly around the cube itself. To prevent a soda from going flat and losing its bubbly nature, keep the container cool and cover it tightly with a lid to prevent carbon dioxide from seeping out.

Tags: carbon dioxide, before opening, causes carbon, causes carbon dioxide, fizz soda

Cook African Bulgar Wheat

Bulgar wheat (also commonly spelled as bulgur or bulghur wheat) is a product primarily used in Middle Eastern and African cuisine. It is wheat that has been boiled, then dried. The dry wheat is cracked into fine, medium or coarse pieces. In African cuisine, bulgar wheat is known as burghul and is used in a variety of savory and sweet dishes. Although it may sound exotic, cooking bulgar wheat is a simple, mostly hands-off process. Since bulgar wheat is boiled before it is processed, it heats much faster than other uncooked grains.

Instructions

1. Pour 2-1/2 cups of water into a large saucepan on your stove top. Turn your stove to high heat until the water starts to boil.

2. Add 1 cup of bulgar wheat into another large saucepan on the stove top, but do not turn on the heat. Pour the boiled water gently onto the bulgar wheat. Ensure all the bulgar wheat pieces are completely coated with the water.

3. Place a lid onto the saucepan. Let the bulgar wheat and water sit and soak for about 30 minutes. Remove the lid and stir the bulgar wheat with a fork to ensure it is completely softened and warm.

4. Position a strainer into your sink. Pour the entire contents of the saucepan into the strainer. Shake the strainer gently to completely drain any excess water from the bulgar wheat.

5. Transfer the bulgar wheat into a large bowl. Stir it lightly with a fork to break up any clumps and make the pieces light and fluffy. Eat the bulgar wheat by itself or use it as the base for African stew or other dishes.

Tags: bulgar wheat, bulgar wheat, African cuisine, bulgar wheat into, into large

Rum Drinks With Coconut Milk

Rum and coconut milk make many different drinks.

Coconut milk is made by combining grated coconut with warm water and then pressing out the juice. It has a white appearance and is sweet and creamy. There are many drink recipes with coconut milk and rum because the flavors complement each other well. Mixing drinks can be done with some common kitchen tools. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Beachcomber

Blend 1 oz. vodka, 1 1/2 oz. white rum, six strawberries, one banana, 1/2 oz. coconut milk, squeeze of lime juice and 1/2 oz. of grenadine. Pour into a tall high ball glass. Garnish with cinnamon.

Pina Colada

Put 3 oz. of white rum, 3 tbsp. of coconut milk and 3 tbsp. of crushed pineapple into a blender with 2 cups of ice. Blend at high speed until smooth. Strain into a Collins glass and serve.

Bushwacker

Pour 1 oz. dark rum, 1oz. Kahlua, 1 oz. amaretto, 1 oz. creme de cacao, 1/2 can of coconut milk and 3/4 cup of milk into a blender. Place the blender on medium speed and gradually add ice until thickened. Pour into a cocktail glass and serve.

Pusser's Pain Killer

Mix 4 oz. Pusser's Rum, 4 oz. pineapple juice, 1 oz. coconut milk and 1 oz. orange juice. Shake with ice and strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish with nutmeg and serve.

Tags: cocktail glass, coconut milk, coconut milk, coconut milk, Garnish with, glass Garnish

Know When Wine Has Gone Bad

Before drinking any wine, it is wise to check the wine for signs that it has gone bad. Bad wine is not defined as wine that simply doesn't taste good; rather, it is wine that has had chemical changes take place that actually make the wine not good to drink. Follow these steps to help you know when wine has gone bad.

Instructions

1. Smell the wine for signs of oxidation, which occurs when air has gotten into a bottle of wine. Open bottles of wine that have not been stored properly can easily become oxidized and will smell pungent, like vinegar. This smell is easily recognizable

2. Look for signs of corked or corky wine. When wine is bottled, the natural cork used in bottling wine can sometimes get wet. If the cork gets wet, it can develop an invisible mold. When the moldy cork is then placed into the wine bottle, the mold actually goes into the wine itself. This will give the wine a musty or cardboard like odor. The wine may even smell like the cork itself.

3. Sniff the wine for a sulfur odor. Wine that has too much sulfur in it can smell like matchsticks or rotten eggs. Wine can have too much sulfur in it due to improper storage or because too much sulfur dioxide was added during the bottling process.

4. Check for signs of cooked wine. If wine is stored in warm or hot places such as attics, car trunks or near the stove, it can begin to cook. Cooked wine will have a brownish tint when poured into a glass. It can also smell caramelized. Bottles of cooked wine may also have corks that appear pushed upwards and partially out of the wine bottle.

Tags: much sulfur, wine that, into wine, smell like, wine bottle

Eat Raw Sugar Cane

The sweet juices of fresh cut sorghum cane have delighted many adults and children alike for generations. Children enjoy playing king of the mountain on top of processed sugar canes mounds in hot summer afternoons. Nearby, a mill is processing the raw cane's sweet juices into a thick syrup in preparation for eating by extracting its sugary juices. Eating the sugar cane can be enjoyed without the processing, too, as explained below.

Instructions

1. Select a freshly-cut stalk of raw sugar cane and cut pieces to seven or eight inches for easy handling.

2. Wash sugar cane with warm water, freeing all debris from the cane.

3. Start chewing the sugar cane, being careful not to swallow the stalk, while extracting all of its sweet juices.

4. Discard chewed sugar cane stalk into trash.

5. Enjoy the raw cane's sweet juices by adding a little lemon juice and some ice for a refreshing cool summer drink. Increase the lemon juice for larger amounts of sugar cane juices.

Tags: sugar cane, sweet juices, cane sweet, cane sweet juices, lemon juice, sugar cane

Keep Whipped Cream Stiff

Top decadent desserts with whipped cream.

Accent your sundaes, pies and puddings with stiff, rather than soft, whipped cream. Stiff whipped cream will hold its shape atop the desserts, instead of melting into them. Use heavy cream, rather than regular whipping cream or half and half, when making whipped cream. Heavy cream doubles in volume when whipped and tends to stay stiff.

Instructions

1. Chill your mixing bowl and beaters in a freezer before making the whipped cream.

2. Pour the heavy cream into the mixing bowl and mix it for 30 seconds on "low." Increase the mixer speed to "medium" and continue blending the cream until it begins to thicken. Turn the mixer on "high" and continue beating the cream; add any flavorings, including sugar, just before soft peaks begin to form.

3. Continue beating the the cream for 30 seconds after adding the flavorings to create stiff peaks. Test the cream's stiffness by pulling a beater out of it; the whipped cream should hold its shape and cling to the beater.

4. Do not continue beating the whipped cream after stiff peaks are formed; doing so may cause the cream to separate and become soft. Stiffen over-mixed whipped cream by adding 2 more tablespoons of heavy cream to it and gently blending with wire whisk.

Tags: whipped cream, whipped cream, beating cream, heavy cream, hold shape

Sevenlayer Dip

About Seven-Layer Dip

Seven-layer dips are popular foods that are typically served at parties as an appetizer. While seven-layer dips can include a variety of healthy and tasty food ingredients, they are most recognized and admired for their display, which is why serving them in a clear bowl or dish is essential. Most seven-layered dips are based on Mexican food ingredients, but these can be substituted with a variety of ingredients at the cook's discretion.

Function

Seven-layer dip is way to serve a combination of food that is layered into a dish and used as a dip. Many seven-layer dips are used at social gatherings and are showcased in a clear bowl for display of each individual layer. Dips are typically served as a snack and compliment many meal styles nicely, but the Mexican seven-layer dip, which includes meat, can be used as a main dish. Seven-layer dips can be served with a variety of crackers or chips, and scooped from the serving dish, or portions can be individually taken out and placed on plates.

Types

Seven-layer dips can come in any flavor combination. A popular seven-layer dip served for an appetizer includes refried beans, taco meat, cheese, black olives, lettuce, sour cream and green onions; it is served to guests cold with tortilla chips for dipping. Meatless versions of seven-layer Mexican dips as well as all bean and cheese versions are also popular. Dessert seven-layer dips could consist of crushed graham crackers as a base, chocolate pudding, crumbled candy bars such as snickers, hot caramel, hot fudge, whipped cream, nuts and ladyfinger cookies for dipping. Vegetable seven-layer dips could include a layer of thick ranch dressing or sour cream interchanged with fresh-cut vegetables such as carrots, broccoli cauliflower, green peppers, onions and celery and then have crackers, tortilla chips or other fresh vegetables used to scoop and dip.

Size

Recipes can be doubled to accommodate a larger crowd, which means the layers will be thicker, making a larger serving bowl necessary. Clear bowls that are 8 to 12 inches in diameter are recommended for seven-layer dips.

Considerations

If the dip will be served outdoors at a picnic, having dairy and meat products exposed to high heat can lead to food poisoning. Keeping food cool will assure that it will be tasty and safe to eat. Dips should also be covered in a sealed container when not being served to assure freshness and avoid a stale taste.

Effects

Your guests will be impressed with a beautifully displayed seven-layer dip, plus it is a convenient dip to take to a potluck. Seven-layer dips are great to serve on occasions where space is limited for serving multiple dips--the combined ingredients in one dish make serving and eating easier on both the host and the guests.

Tags: seven-layer dips, Seven-layer dips, clear bowl, dips could, food ingredients, seven-layer dips, seven-layer dips could

Wine Choices For Crab Legs

King crab legs are among the most sought-after.

Whether steamed, boiled or broiled, crab legs are an excellent appetizer. For a simple, classic presentation, just melt some butter and dip the crab legs into it. You can also serve them with cocktail sauce, tartar sauce, vinaigrette or even salsa. Whatever recipe you choose, serve a high-acidity, dry white wine that contrasts with and complements the rich flavor of the crab legs.

French Wines

The white wines of the Loire region, south of Paris, are perfect matches for crab legs. Wines from Sancerre have a flinty, mineral character that offsets the seafood's richness. Pouilly-Fum s have the same mineral taste, but add a slight smoky taste -- "fum " means "smoked" in French. The Muscadet region of the Loire valley, which borders coastal Brittany, produces lightly acidic wines that can cut through rich, buttery dipping sauces. Wines from Vouvray also work well with crab legs.

Italian Wines

The northern and northeastern regions of Italy make white wines that go well with crab legs. Pinot Grigios are well-known and widely available; their light, acidic character complements the richness of crab legs. The Soave region, which includes the city of Verona, makes dry, unaged white wines that go well with crab and any other seafood. Less-common Italian white wines that work with this dish include Verdicchio and Vernaccia di San Gimignano.

American Wines

The United States wine industry is young but growing incredibly fast. West Coast American white wines are especially well-suited for drinking with crab legs. Look for Pinot Gris wines from Washington and Oregon; these light white wines pair well with crabs. California Chardonnays can also work with crab legs; avoid, however, Chardonnays that describe themselves as "oaky," as this strong flavor can clash with the flavor of the crab and any sauce you're serving with it. California also produces many Viogniers that complement crab legs well.

Other Wines

Crisp, floral German Riesling wines work well with crab legs, especially if you're serving them with a spicy or Asian-inspired sauce. Try a Spanish white like Albariño -- or the Portuguese Alvarinho -- for simpler presentations. South African and South American Chenin Blancs also go well with crab legs, as do Australian Sauvignon Blancs.

Tags: crab legs, with crab, well with, white wines, with crab legs, well with crab, wines that

Wineries Near Massanutten Virginia

Wineries around Massanutten, Virginia open their doors to the public for wine tastings.

Virginia's mild climate and rich soil is perfect for grape growing, and has led to it becoming known for its rich and thriving grape harvests. There are over 150 wineries in Virginia, mostly located in the eastern part of the state. In the northern part of the state between Maryland and West Virginia, near the town of Massanutten, there are several wineries open to the public throughout the year.

Cross Keys Vineyards

The Cross Keys Vineyard is located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley 12 miles from Massanutten. The vineyard is open to the public and hosts regular wine tastings, tours and special events. Cross Keys makes both red and white wines, including Chardonnay, Vidal Blanc, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Franc. The 2008 Cross Keys Cabernet Franc was the recipient of a Double Gold and Best in Varietal award. The tasting room is open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Cross Keys Vineyards

6011 East Timber Ridge Road

Mt. Crawford, VA 22841

540-234-0505

crosskeysvineyards.com

Misty Ray Winery

The Misty Ray Winery is located 10 miles north of Massanutten in Harrisonburg. The winery is open for tastings by appointment only. Tastings can be scheduled by either emailing or calling the winery directly. Some of the signature wines created by Misty Ray include the Holiday wine, a fruit filled wine with ingredients such as rhubarb. The Cabernet Sauvignon Rose is created by removing the juice form the Cabernet Sauvignon as it passes through the crusher. The Miss Doreen Blanc is a desert wine with spices and herbs.

Misty Ray Winery

215 Rorrer Circle

Harrisonburg, VA 22801

540-433-8243

mistyraywinery.com

Stone Mountain Vineyards

The Stone Mountain Vineyard is located just 20 miles southeast of Massanutten in the town of Dyke. It is located approximately 1,700 feet on top of the Blue Ridge Mountains and has a view of the countryside from its wine tasting areas. Stone Mountain Vineyard's signature wines include a Cabernet Franc, a Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio Blend, a Cabernet Savignon and a Chardonnay. Stone Mountain Vineyards' Cabernet Franc Reserve 2001 won the Bronze Medal 2003 Virginia Governors Cup and the Bronze Medal 2003 Tasters Guild at the International Wine Judging. The winery is open Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. during the season, from March through December.

Stone Mountain Vineyards

1376 Wyatt Mountain Road

P.O. Box 7

Dyke, VA 22935

434-990-9463

stonemountainvineyards.com

Tags: Cross Keys, Stone Mountain, Cabernet Franc, Misty Winery, Mountain Vineyards

Wilton Cookie Mold Tutorial

Cookie molds can allow you to make beautiful classic cookies or playful and fun cookie pops. A cookie mold can allow even an inexperienced cookie decorator to make attractive cookies easily. Using a cookie mold is not difficult; however, you do need to choose the right cookie dough recipe, use your mold properly, and decorate your cookies once they have cooled.

Cookie Dough Recipes

Wilton cookie molds require a relatively firm dough. You may have success with your favorite sugar cookie recipe, particularly if it is designed to be rolled and cut. Some shortbread recipes or butter cookie doughs may also work in your mold. A cream cheese butter cookie can make an especially tasty molded cookie. Cream together 3 ounces of softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup softened butter, 1/2 cup brown sugar and one teaspoon of vanilla. Add 1 2/3 cups flour and knead. Chill till firm. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until the cookies are light brown on the edges. Baking time will vary depending upon your cookie molds.

Molding the Cookies

Chill your cookie dough before molding cookies with your Wilton cookie mold. Use a pastry brush and oil to lightly grease the cookie mold or opt for cooking spray. Flour the molds, tapping away the excess. If you are making a molded chocolate cookie, use cocoa instead of flour. You will need to grease and flour the cookie mold whether you are using a molded pan that will go into the oven or molding cookies to turn out onto a cookie sheet. If you are tapping your cookies out of a mold, flour the mold between each cookie; however, you will not need to oil the mold repeatedly.

Baking and Decorating Molded Cookies

Baking time for Wilton cookie molds may vary. Small and thin cookies may take less than 10 minutes, while very large cookie molds may require closer to 20 minutes baking time. Allow the cookie to cool briefly in the Wilton cookie mold or on the cookie sheet, then place on a wire rack to cool completely. Ice your cookies with royal icing or buttercream, then decorate with piped icing, candy melts, sprinkles, candy or even edible cookie decorating markers. Allow the icing to set up completely before packaging your molded cookies.

Tags: cookie mold, Wilton cookie, cookie molds, your cookies, Baking time, butter cookie, cookie dough

Make An Herbal Tea Blend For Insomnia

Even though I usually use skullcap by itself, that doesn't mean it can't be put into an herbal blend. I've created the following great-tasting tea blend that can be used for insomnia, stress, anxiety, and even as an anti-inflammatory blend.

The recipe for my Insomnia Tea is measured in "parts." Choose something as a unit of measure, such as a teaspoon. If the recipe, for example, says "2 parts" you'll put in 2 teaspoons. All herbs used are dried.

Instructions

1. I have provided all of the Latin names of the plants for you. Make sure you have the right herb. For example, there is more than one variety of chamomile and more than one variety of mint.

2. Measure each of the herbs carefully and place them in the mixing bowl. Mix them gently with the wooden spoon.

3. Add the blend to the airtight container. I like amber glass jars stopped up with a cork. Store the blend in a cool, dry place.

4. When you want to make a cup of the tea, just use 1 teaspoon of the dried herb for each cup of hot water. Let it steep for 10 to 15 minutes before removing the herb. You can sweeten it to taste.

Tags: more than, more than variety, than variety

Buy Alcohol In A Dry County

Back in 1920 when the United States went on the wagon, alcohol was hard to come by. Now it's almost ubiquitous. But in 17 states, they're still toeing the line. Beer, wine and hard liquor are sold by law only in designated outlets, such as liquor stores, bars, hotels and restaurants. Here's quench that thirst and stay on the right side of the law.

Instructions

1. Crack open the Yellow Pages and look up "Liquor Stores." Some states confine the purchase of bottles and kegs to these outlets. Some restaurants may also sell six-packs for carry-out.

2. Head to a bar or pub. Most states allow alcohol to be sold and taken off the premises because of reasonable-access laws.

3. Fill 'er up. In some semidry states, gas stations or grocers can sell beer, while only liquor stores may sell distilled spirits and wine.

4. Check out the Clubs of America site (greatclubs.com) to find a beer- or wine-of-the-month club that suits your palette. Or order directly from a winery or a distillery. Wine clubs managed by vineyards or other retailers won't send you alcohol if you live in states where its shipment is illegal or questionable, however.

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Make An Iced Vanilla Latte

Who wants to start the day with a hot cup of coffee when it's 90 degrees F outside? Iced coffee drinks are a great way to keep cool during the summer months, but buying these iced drinks every day can become expensive in a hurry. Here is an easy way to make an iced vanilla latte.

Instructions

1. Place at least two shots of espresso into your espresso carafe. Most carafes will have lines with numbers on the inside indicating the amount of espresso needed. By putting at least two shots of espresso into the carafe, you can guarantee that you'll have brewed enough espresso for at least one iced vanilla latte.

2. Fill your glass carafe with enough water to brew the number of espresso shots you are making. In other words, if you filled your espresso carafe up to the number “two,” fill your glass carafe to the same numbered line.

3. Dump that water into your espresso maker. Turn your espresso machine on to begin the brewing process. Let the espresso completely finish brewing before removing the glass carafe.

4. Let the hot espresso sit for about 15 to 20 minutes in order to cool. If you're in a hurry, empty out at least one shot of espresso into an 8 oz. thermal mug and place the mug into your freezer for 5 to 10 minutes so that it cools.

5. Once one shot of espresso is into your mug, add roughly 1 tbs. of vanilla syrup to the espresso. You can add slightly more or less, depending on how much vanilla you wish to taste.

6. Fill the remainder of your cup with milk, leaving about 1/2 inch of room in the cup for ice. You can mix the drink if you desire using a spoon or other mixer but it is not necessary to do so.

7. Add two or more ice cubes to the mixture to finish your iced vanilla latte.

Tags: espresso into, into your, your espresso, glass carafe, espresso carafe

3 Day Cottage Cheese Grapefruit Diet

Rev up your metabolism and shed pounds on a 3-day cottage cheese grapefruit diet program. The diet combines the protein in cottage cheese along with the fat burning enzymes in grapefruit for fast weight loss. Most of the weight you'll lose is water weight, however if you are trying to get into an outfit for a special occasion, the 3-day cottage cheese and grapefruit diet may be the plan for you.

Cottage Cheese and Grapefruit Plan

The grapefruit and cottage cheese program follows a diet similar to the the 3-day Mayo Clinic Diet. This plan is not endorsed by The Mayo Clinic in Minnesota but people continue to refer to the cottage cheese grapefruit diet as The Mayo Clinic Diet. The main component of the program is to eat grapefruit with every meal along with a protein, such as cottage cheese. You will eat approximately 1,200 calories per day and dinner is the largest meal of the day.

Every morning, your breakfast consists of black coffee or tea, grapefruit and a protein with one bread. For example, peanut butter on toast or one egg and toast are ways to get protein and bread.

Have cottage cheese, a grapefruit and a bread for lunch. Instead of cottage cheese, you could have tuna and toast or an egg and toast. Dinner includes one protein such as a lean meat or tuna, vegetables, grapefruit and even a cup of ice cream. Follow this program for three days and you should see up to 10 pounds of weight loss.

Cottage Cheese Diets

The 3-day cottage cheese and grapefruit diet is one type of cottage cheese diets. Cottage cheese diets are popular because they produce quick, dramatic results thanks to eating drastically less food than normal. Also, protein is a natural fat burner. Cottage cheese has between 25 to 30 grams of amino acid producing protein, which is an efficient fat burner.

Cottage cheese diets often recommend eating one or two servings of cottage cheese for nearly every meal. Dieters typically exist on 1,000 to 1,200 calories a day and consume between 32 to 64 oz. of water. A strict version of the cottage cheese diet is to eat only cottage cheese and water for several days. Dieters see results and lose up to 10 to 15 pounds within this time frame; however most of the weight loss is due to water weight.

Add grapefruit to the cottage cheese diet for variety and to double your fat burning efforts. Some diets also allow you to consume one fruit of your choice in addition to your serving of cottage cheese or a meat. Other cottage cheese-based diets call for strict cottage cheese consumption throughout the day followed by a low calorie, low carb, high protein meal for dinner.

Tags: cottage cheese, cheese grapefruit diet, 3-day cottage, 3-day cottage cheese, cheese grapefruit, cottage cheese

Select A Pineapple That Is At The Peak Of Ripeness

Fresh fruits have the finest flavor and texture when at the peak of ripeness. Here is pick the perfect pineapple.

Pineapple is one of the most difficult fruits to produce for many reasons. For peak flavor the fruit must be harvested when ripe rather than slightly unripe, as many fruits are traditionally shipped, because the majority of tropical fruits will not ripen once harvested. In addition to the very short market life of this fruit a properly harvested pineapple bruises quite easily, thus further complicating its production for market. Sales locations that are nearest the growing and distribution areas are more likely to provide a fresh product. For these reasons, among others, the pineapple is one of the most expensive fruits in the produce aisles.

When you choose to treat yourself to this sweet and juicy delicacy it is important that you get the finest fruit available. Selecting a ripe pineapple is actually quite easy.

Instructions

1. As with all fruits, be sure to exclude any item that has soft spots or visible damage to the rind.

2. Unlike many fruits, you will not want to choose a pineapple that has a strong, sweet smell because these fruits are overripe and likely to have begun to ferment.

3. Once you have found a good candidate, grasp one of the inner leaves of the crown of the fruit and give a light tug straight up from the top of the fruit. Do not pull it sideways at all. If the leaf comes out easily, your pineapple is ripe and ready to go. You may want to compare the 'tug' of a few different fruits before you make your final decision.

Tags: fruits produce, fruits will, many fruits

Cook Muskrat

Muskrat has a tender, fine-grained meat that tends to taste gamey. However, with a little preparation and creativity, muskrat meat can make a tasty meal. Read on to learn clean and cook muskrat meat.

Instructions

1. Soak the muskrat meat overnight in a salt water (1 tbsp. salt to 1 quart of water) solution to reduce the power of the game taste before cooking.

2. Drain the salt water solution from the meat and cut muskrat into pieces. Be careful to cut the muskrat at the joints and to not saw through the major bones, as bone dust intensifies the gamey taste.

3. Add 1 quart water, salt, pepper, ? of the onion and muskrat meat into a deep pot. Cook at least 1 hour or until the meat is tender.

4. Remove the meat from the pot and fry in olive oil until browned.

5. Add green peppers, mushrooms and the rest of the onion to the meat in the fry pan. Cover the meat with Worcestershire sauce and tomato paste. Add one cup of water, cover and simmer for 30 minutes or until the tomato gravy is thick.

Tags: muskrat meat, quart water, salt water, water solution

Extract Red Wine

Extract red wine from grape skins.

Red wines are created through a process called extraction, which is the removal of color and flavor from wine grapes. The skins of wine grapes hold the color for making wines because the pulp is colorless. The skins contain compounds like tannins -- a compound that reacts with proteins to create the dry and puckery sensation when drinking red wine -- and anthocyanins -- red and purple colored pigments which are important in the formulation of red wines. The key to making red wine is to extract just the right amount of color and flavor from red wine grape skins into the fresh wine juice known as must, which is process known as maceration.

Instructions

1. Collect a large quantity of wine grapes. The formulation of wine demands a lot of grapes for fermentation.

2. Crush and de-stem the wine grapes. This is usually accomplished with the use of a machine called a crusher-destemmer. Once the process is finished there will be a liquid mass with the skins and stems collected at the surface. Stems can only be left in the mix if they are ripe, otherwise the wine formulation will be bitter.

3. Keep the liquid grape mass moist. If the crushed grapes were left alone the skins and stems will form a barrier surface which will grow bacteria, eventually smell of vinegar and spoil. This is prevented by plunging the liquid with a machine, a special pole, or feet as seen in old wine-making documentaries. A machine can also be used to hold the surface skins and stems below the surface, or juice from below the surface can be funneled to pour over the surface. Plunging is the most used method because it is more efficient at extracting colors and tannin.

4. Determine the time of separation. Fermentation will make the alcohol levels rise which will further aid in the extraction of color and tannin from the skins into the juices. This process of maceration will complete when fermentation has ended.

5. Drain the wine from the skins and stems so that they can be pressed. The remaining mix of stems, seeds, skins and juices after the wine has been removed are put into a press which extracts the remaining juices from the skins and seeds. This is a precise process. Applying too much force to the press will release bitter compounds from the seeds and grape skins that will ruin the quality of the wine.

6. Choose whether to combine the wine and pressings. They can be left as separate wine formulas or combined together to create different flavors. The decision rests with the winemaker.

Tags: skins stems, wine grapes, from skins, grape skins, below surface, color flavor, color flavor from

What Is Tretinoin Cream Usp

Tretinoin Cream, USP (Emollient) 0.05% is a prescription medicine by Spear Dermatology Products for softening fine wrinkles, blotched hyper-pigmentation and rough skin on the facial area. Patients use the topical cream with sunlight avoidance tactics such as sunscreen and protective clothing.

Usage

The patient applies Tretinoin Cream, USP (Emollient) 20 to 30 minutes after washing her face at night and avoids other skin care products for at least one hour afterward. Changes generally appear after three to four months.

How it works

Tretinoin Cream, USP (Emollient) is a form of Vitamin A and triggers receptors in the body, which may change gene expression, protein formation and cell growth.

Clinical Experimentation

Scientists conducted tests on mice to measure Tretinoin Cream, USP Emollient's effectiveness. Results showed increased melanin production in UV-exposed mice. Two experiments on humans displayed improvement in the first 24 weeks.

Possible Side Effects

The patient may experience warmth or stinging immediately after Tretinoin Cream, USP (Emollient) application. Early in the treatment mild to moderate peeling, dry skin, burning, stinging, itching and redness may occur.

Packaging

Tretinoin Cream, USP (Emollient) 0.05% sells in 40-gram and 60-gram tubes.

Tags: Tretinoin Cream, Cream Emollient, Tretinoin Cream Emollient

Carrot Snack Crafts

Carrots are great for snacking and crafting.

Carrots are a simple, easy and healthy snack that many kids enjoy. Parents and children together can make eating this economical snack even more fun by making snack time play time. From monarch sandwiches to carrot masterpieces of art, these simple crafts bring a whole new meaning to the phrase playing with your food.

Finger Halloween Snacks Craft

Cut the top and bottoms off one medium-sized carrot for a thumb, and four larger carrots for fingers. Soak the carrots in water to clean them. While the carrots are soaking, put your favorite dip into a serving bowl (hummus, ranch or vegetable dip). Peel the carrots. Using a paring knife, cut notches at the tip of each finger and the thumb. The notches should be narrow and flat. Using cream cheese or dip, place a slivered almond on top of each notch for the fingernails. Serve your fingers by placing them sticking fingernail side up in the bowl of dip.

Carrot Painting Two Ways

Save the tops of two to three carrots (about 4 in. plus greens). Clean and allow them to air dry. Once dry, use the leafy stems at the top as paint brushes to create a masterpiece. Enjoy the bottoms of the carrots as a snack while you paint.

Another way to use carrots to paint is to save the top 2 in. of a carrot and discard the leafy greens attached. The wider the carrot the better for this craft, as you will carve the tops into different shapes to create stamps. Grab paints or stamp pads, and use your carrot stamps to design some original artwork. Enjoy the discarded bottom halves of the carrots for a snack.

Carrot Salad Man

Open a small can of crushed pineapple and drain it. Place it in a bowl with half a cup of cottage cheese or plain/honey/vanilla yogurt. Cut the tops and bottoms off two carrots. Wash the carrots. Peel the carrots, saving some of the longer shavings for later. Grate the carrots, and mix them into the bowl. Put the salad onto a plate. Create a face on your salad with raisins. Take the longer carrot shavings and make hair on the salad man.

Monarch Sandwiches

Cut a slice of bread into two triangles. Place the triangles onto a plate to resemble monarch wings. Wash and peel a carrot. Save two longer shavings. Cut the stick so it is approximately three inches in length. Put the carrot stick on the plate between the two bread wings to resemble a monarch's body. You can add cream cheese, peanut butter or another spread on the wings, and decorate them with raisins or other snacks. Take the longer carrot shavings and place them above the wings to resemble antennae.

Tags: bottoms carrots, carrot shavings, carrots snack, cream cheese, longer carrot, longer carrot shavings, longer shavings

Cook Brussels Sprouts Perfectly

Get perfectly cooked Brussels sprouts by steaming them.

If you think you hate Brussels sprouts, it may be that the ones you've had were improperly cooked. For best results, steam your Brussels sprouts. This method reduces the cooking smell and minimizes the loss of nutrients, including vitamin C, according to Fruits & Veggies Matter. At the store, choose fresh Brussels sprouts that feel firm, don't smell too strongly and are green rather than yellow. Give this veggie another try using a simple preparation method that virtually guarantees a perfect Brussels sprout every time.

Instructions

1. Place the steamer basket in the pot and fill with enough water to just reach the bottom of the steamer basket. Begin heating the water so that when you put the sprouts in the basket, the water is almost boiling.

2. Reduce the bitter taste by chopping off just the dark ends, leaving the sprout intact so the leaves don't fall off. Fruits & Veggies Matter also suggests cutting an X in the stem to help the heat penetrate the sprout.

3. Add the sprouts to the steamer basket, cover and cook over the highest heat setting for about 2 minutes, and then remove the lid for several seconds to release the odors and steam. Recover and continue cooking until fork tender, about 15 minutes.

Tags: steamer basket, about minutes, Brussels sprouts, Brussels sprouts, Brussels sprouts that, Fruits Veggies

Start A Fast Food Restaurant

Start a Fast Food Restaurant

No matter how the economy changes, many people still enjoy eating out at fast food restaurants, because they are generally affordable. Opening your own fast food restaurant may be something you have always desired to do, but it can be an ambitious venture. To succeed, you need to keep a few things in mind.

Instructions

1. Make sure you have enough start-up funds to launch your fast food restaurant or franchise and that you have enough money to sustain it for at least two years. Success isn't always instant and you will need enough income to stay afloat in the event your customer base doesn't grow as quickly as you would like. You also need to be able to pay for building rental fees, insurance, equipment, supplies, food, employee salaries, advertising and more. Since the likelihood is that you will need to take out a business loan, you must be capable of making monthly payments to the cost.

2. Start getting things into place. Find out about zoning laws and health codes. Incorporate and get a business license. Write a good business plan that outlines the specifics of your long-term and short-term goals, your budget and other costs, your marketing strategies and the like.

3. Consider buying into a franchise of a fast food restaurant chain that has a proven success record. That way, you will be investing your money into a business that has a bigger chance of earning profits. It will be expensive, but it may also make it easier for you to get a loan.

4. If you want to start an independent fast food restaurant of your own, decide what the concept will be, what demographic you want to attract and what you can do to make your establishment unique. Realize that you face stiff competition from more well-known, popular fast food businesses, so you need to come up with something that will make yours stand out from the crowd.

5. Decide what type of fast food you want to serve at your restaurant. For example, do you want the focus to be Chinese food or Mexican food or burgers or pizza? Develop a menu that is easy to understand and come up with a competitive price for each item. You may want to design a menu with "combo" meals or special deals where consumers can buy a combination of items for less.

6. Begin interviewing employees. If you don't want to manage the restaurant yourself, make sure you hire someone to do the job who has experience and who has had success in this area. While it would be preferable to hire other employees who have had some type of experience in the industry, it isn't always necessary if they are responsible, hard-working and willing to be trained. Let your employees know that you set high standards that they are expected to follow.

7. Market your fast food restaurant. You can send out flyers, advertise in newspapers or in other media, have promotional events and more. The fast food industry is highly competitive, so you need to get the word out about your restaurant creatively and aggressively.

Tags: fast food, fast food restaurant, food restaurant, fast food, your fast

Brew Gaiwan Tea

Gaiwan tea is an ancient Chinese tea tradition dating back to the mid-1300s. Loosely translated, gaiwan means "covered cup," and each gaiwan contains a saucer, bowl and lid. Use gaiwan tea preparation for delicately flavored looseleaf teas, such as green or oolong. After brewing in the gaiwan, you can drink the tea from the cup or pour it into separate cups.

Instructions

1. Warm the gaiwan with hot water. If you choose to use a separate cup instead of drinking from the gaiwan, you should also warm the cup with hot water. Pour the water out once the container is warm.

2. Measure the tea leaves according to which tea you are brewing. Typically, this measurement is one to two tablespoons. Place the tea leaves in the gaiwan.

3. Wash the tea leaves with a quick rinse of hot water. Pour this water out and keep the tea leaves in by using the lid to contain the leaves while allowing the water to flow out of the gaiwan.

4. Fill the gaiwan with hot water again, cover with the lid and let the tea steep for the time consistent with the type of tea you're brewing. Green tea has a 2-to-3-minute brew time, while darker teas typically brew for a few minutes longer. As you grow more comfortable with brewing tea you can adjust the brew time to better suit your individual taste.

5. Hold the cup and saucer in your right hand while your left steadies the lid. Drink from the gaiwan while the lid holds the tea leaves back. You may also use this method to decant the brewed tea into a separate container.

6. Drink the tea and enjoy. You have just brewed tea as it was done during the Ming Dynasty.

7. Resteep the tea leaves if you wish. Resteeped tea leaves requires a slightly longer brew time, but you should be able to steep quality looseleaf tea several times before its flavor dies.

Tags: brew time, with water, from gaiwan, gaiwan with, gaiwan with water

Octopus Birthday Party Ideas

Hang out octopus toys as favors.

Sea creatures are popular with kids of all ages. Going with the octopus theme offers a different approach to the very common "under the sea" birthday party theme. The eight-tentacled sea creature offers lots of inspiration for all of the birthday party details. Starting with an octopus invitation and staying with the theme through all of the other party elements create an inviting party atmosphere for the guests.

Postcard Invitations

An octopus postcard works well as a simple party invitation. Look for octopus postcards in the gift shop of a zoo or aquarium. Another option is to make your own octopus postcards by printing a picture of the animal onto card stock. Cut the card stock into 4-inch-by-6-inch rectangles to create the postcards. Write all of the party details on the back of the postcards before mailing them. The added bonus is that postcards are cheaper to send than regular invitations.

Decorations

Create an underwater environment with the party decorations. Drape blue streamers along the ceiling to create the ocean. Blue balloons filled with helium and floating along the ceiling also create an underwater feeling in the room. Suspend fish and octopus cardboard cutouts from the ceiling to continue with the theme. You can also make simple three-dimensional octopus decorations by attaching streamers to an inflated balloon.

Food

Choose party foods that resemble items from the sea. Seashell pasta works well in macaroni and cheese or a cold pasta salad. You can also serve it with spaghetti sauce. Turn a hot dog into an octopus. Cut the hot dog in half leaving about an inch at the top uncut. Continue cutting each half into four sections to create the tentacles.

An octopus cake rounds out the party menu. Use a dome-shaped cake to create the main body of the octopus. Either bake the cake in a specialty cake pan or use an oven-safe bowl. Ice the cake with tinted icing. Make tentacles by forming fondant into long pieces that come to a point at the end. Add any other features to the octopus to finish it off. If you need more cake servings, place the octopus cake on top of a sheet cake decorated with blue icing to resemble the ocean.

Octopus Tag

Octopus tag is a simple game ideal for this theme party. One person starts as the octopus tagger in the middle of the playing field. The rest of the kids are fish. The fish run from one end of the playing field to the other. Anyone who the octopus tags becomes seaweed. The seaweed players can't move their feet but can reach out and tag the fish as they run by. Continue playing until the octopus has tagged everyone.

Favors

Choose party favors that stick with the octopus and underwater theme. A plastic octopus toy is a good place to start. Look for octopus or underwater stickers, coloring books and temporary tattoos to add to the party favors. If you have difficulty finding octopus items, expand to fish and ocean items.

Tags: with octopus, along ceiling, card stock, Choose party, Look octopus, octopus cake, octopus postcards

Make A Cranberry Swirl Cheesecake

This delicious cheesecake has the tangy bite of cranberries!

A sure fire winner for your next holiday party, this delicious dessert combines the rich creaminess of the best cheesecake with the tang of fresh cranberry sauce. Just a hint of orange makes this a treat for the senses. Try this--you and your guests will love it!

Instructions

1. Prepare the crust. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In a medium bowl, beat butter until fluffy. Add brown sugar and 1/2 tsp. vanilla. Beat until fluffy. Add flour and pecans just until combined. Press onto bottom and up sides of pan. Bake for 10 minutes or until lightly browned. Cool.

2. Make the cranberry sauce. Combine 1 cup sugar, the cranberries and 3/4 cup of orange juice. Cook in a pan and stir until cranberries soften and begin to pop. Combine 1/4 cup orange juice and cornstarch in measuring cup, stirring until smooth. Add to cooking cranberries and stir until it thickens and is bubbly. Set aside half of the sauce and allow to cool, and then place in a blender and puree until smooth. Cover and chill the remainder.

3. Combine in a large bowl the cream cheese, sour cream, 1 cup of sugar and 2 tbs. of flour. Beat on low until smooth. Add eggs and stir until combined. Add whipping cream, orange juice and peel and vanilla and stir until combined. Pour half the mixture into prepared crust. Drizzle the pureed cranberry sauce over the filling, and then pour the remaining filling over the top. With a butter knife, gently cut through the filling so that the cranberry sauce swirls, but does not show through from the top of the cheesecake.

4. Place pan on a baking sheet and bake for about 1 hour or until the center appears set when jiggled. Cool on wire rack for 15 minutes before running a butter knife around the sides of the pan to loosen the crust. Allow to cool for another 30 minutes before you release the sides of the springform pan. Cover and chill at least 6 hours before serving. Spoon 1 tsp. of set aside sauce on the top of each slice to decorate.

Tags: cranberry sauce, stir until, orange juice, until combined, until smooth

Make A Key Lime Pie Smoothie

Fruit smoothies are a healthy treat any day of the week. They are especially nice on a hot summer day. Key lime pie is an excellent snack. With its tang and sweetness, it is a thrill for the taste buds. This smoothie is a quick and easy version of the classic key lime pie, and it is a shake you will want again and again.

Instructions

Key Lime Pie Smoothie

1. Place the crushed graham crackers on a plate. Wet rims of the glasses with damp paper towel. Dip the rims of the glasses into the crumbs. Set glasses aside.

2. In your blender, place ice cream, ice cubes, milk, lime juice, lime peel and remaining graham cracker crumbs. Blend on high for about one minute until mixture is smooth. If the mixture is too thick, add a little more milk and blend again until it reaches a smooth consistency.

3. Pour drink into each of the four glasses evenly, making sure not to disturb the graham cracker crumbs on the rim. Dollop whipped cream on top and place a thin slice of lime.

Tags: cracker crumbs, graham cracker, graham cracker crumbs, Lime Smoothie, rims glasses

Which Condiments Need To Be Refrigerated

Store your condiments correctly for safety and better flavor.

Most households have a large number of condiments on hand, and it isn't always clear how these should be stored or how long they will last if stored properly. Usually products that require refrigeration will say so on the label, but if the label doesn't state this, is refrigeration still a good idea? Of course, every possible condiment cannot be listed here, but a few guidelines can help you decide safely and effectively store most condiments.

Condiments that Must Be Refrigerated

Condiments made from perishable ingredients such as milk, eggs, fresh vegetables, etc., must be stored in the refrigerator after opening. Many of these items are kept in the refrigerated section of the grocery store. They are almost always marked "Keep refrigerated" or "Refrigerate after opening." Such items include mayonnaise, dairy-based salad dressings, dips, chutneys, horseradish, relishes, olives, minced garlic, etc. Even refrigerated, these items have a limited life; mayonnaise and salad dressing will stay fresh about three months in the refrigerator.

Condiments that Need No Refrigeration

Condiments that are highly acidic, salty, extremely sweet or made from a stable olive or vegetable oil do not need refrigeration (nut oils, on the other hand, can go rancid if not refrigerated). Soy sauce, Tabasco, Worcestershire sauce and all varieties of vinegar are examples of these condiments. Honey, corn syrup, molasses and jams with at least 2/3 sugar content will keep on the shelf, but maple syrup should be refrigerated. Most of these items will still need to be replaced after long storage simply because the quality and flavor fades with time; soy sauce, for example, should be discarded after a year. Vinegar can retain its flavor for up to three years. Dry condiments such as sugar and salt may be kept almost indefinitely on the shelf.

Condiments Optionally Refrigerated

Some condiments will keep for a reasonable time without refrigeration but will last longer in the refrigerator. Ketchup will keep for a month without refrigeration but will last up to six months if kept cool. Barbecue sauce will keep for a month on the pantry shelf or up to four months in the refrigerator. Peanut butter does not need refrigeration, but the oil in natural peanut butter, if it is stirred and refrigerated, will not separate (this is not harmful in any case--simply stir it back in). Mustard will keep for one to two months at room temperature but up to a year in the refrigerator.

Tags: will keep, Condiments that, refrigeration will, these items, will last, after opening, keep month

Use Rice Paper Wrappers

Fresh spring rolls

Rice paper wrappers are great for making appetizers, snack or light lunch. They take a little bit of practice, but they're relatively easy to use once you get the hang of it.

Instructions

1. Place one sheet of rice paper into a shallow dish of hot water for 10 to 20 seconds or until the paper starts to become soft. If you leave it in for too long, it will just tear and become unusable.

2. Take the rice paper out of the water and drain it well.

3. Lay the wrapper on a smooth surface.

4. Place your choice of thinly sliced vegetables, meat or shrimp in the middle of the wrap. Don't use too much filling, or the paper will tear when you roll it up. Start with no more than 1/4 cup of filling per roll.

5. Fold the bottom of the rice paper over the filling and then fold the sides, making as tight a wrap as you can.

6. Continue to fold and roll until you have a nice, tight wrap.

7. Serve cold or steamed with dipping sauce.

Tags: rice paper, tight wrap

Where To Buy Phyllo Dough

Phyllo dough is tricky to make. Most home chefs buy it premade.

Phyllo, or filo, dough can be made at home, but is such an exacting process that it is always easier to purchase the dough either fresh or frozen. This can save hours of work when making pastry and no difference in taste can be detected in the final product. Finding phyllo dough can be a challenge, especially if you live in a small town.

Instructions

1. Call your local grocery stores to see if they carry phyllo dough. Most larger chain stores, such as Kroger or Albertsons do carry the frozen product. Many smaller stores do also or may order it for you if you ask.

2. Call any local bakeries in town. Even if they do not carry it as a regular item, they may be willing to make it for you at a very reasonable price.

3. Try online stores such as Amazon.com. Type "Filo Dough" or "phyllo dough" in the search box and numerous options will be listed in the returns. A search in Google will reveal many other places that sell phyllo dough in various forms.

4. Follow the directions given for storage of the filo dough after purchase. This will keep the leftover dough fresh and ready for your next pastry creation.

Tags: phyllo dough, phyllo dough, stores such, they carry

Foods For A Diabetic Diet

A diabetic diet is notable for the foods you should avoid as much as the foods you can eat. The aim is to provide steady, regular glucose levels without an undue rise in blood sugar. That precludes a lot of foods which people love to eat, but it needn't completely eliminate tasty dishes from your diet. Plenty of healthy foods can make delicious meals, while simultaneously lowering your cholesterol and controlling your diabetes.

Foods to Avoid

Diabetics need to stay away from foods high in cholesterol, those containing a lot of salt or sodium and those full of sugar. That includes fatty meats (fast food meats in particular), candy and sweets, soda, high-fat dairy products, alcohol, egg yolks and anything made with saturated fats. While you don't need to cut such foods out of your diet entirely, they should be severely limited and saved for special treats: consumed no more than once a week, if that. Dairy products can be consumed more readily, but they should always be low-fat or non-fat varieties such as skim milk or cottage cheese.

Lean Meats

Meat is an important part of any diet, but for diabetics, it should be as fat-free as possible. That often means fish such as tuna and salmon, but it can also mean beef and poultry if they are prepared properly. Grilling or baking meats tends to lower their cholesterol levels a great deal, and you can use canola oil or olive oil to prepare them instead of hydrogenated oils.

Grains and Starch

Experts suggest basing a diabetic diet around healthy starches and grains, such as rice, potatoes, cereal, high-grain bread, oatmeal, bran muffins and pasta. Six to eleven servings a day are recommended, and like lean meats, they should be prepared in a healthy manner such as baking or grilling. Avoid garnishing them with butter, jelly or sweeteners, since that only adds cholesterol and sugar.

Fruits and Vegetables

In addition to the starch, a good variety of fruits and vegetables can help maintain healthy glucose levels. In particular, high fiber vegetables such as carrots, broccoli, cauliflower and spinach make for a healthy diet, as do fruits such as apples, bananas, oranges, strawberries and pears. Experts recommend at least 3 to 5 servings of vegetables and 2 to 4 servings of fruit each day for diabetics.

Regularity

As important as the diet itself is, it can be just as important for diabetics to maintain regularity in their eating habits. This means consuming approximately the same amount of calories each day (from the same type of sources), taking meals regularly and eating each meal at the same approximate time every day. That keeps glucose levels from rising or falling unnecessarily, which is essential to a diabetic's good health.

Tags: glucose levels, they should, consumed more, diabetic diet, sugar That, your diet

Serve A Cheese Plate

When looking for healthy alternatives to chips and dip or other prepackaged snacks full of artificial preservatives, many moms want to know serve a cheese plate for kids. Many kids seem to take better to finger foods and these calcium enriched small bites on a fun style platter will make it a sure fire treat that your children will devour to the last crumb. There's no rule that states that good afternoon snacks have to be boring!

Instructions

1. Get a larger serving platter. You can even buy colorful plastic ones for cheap at your local store that sells everything for one dollar but any larger one will do. To make it prettier, you can cover the bottom with colorful saran wrap to place the cheeses on when you're ready to put them on the platter.

2. Buy some of your kids favorite block cheeses. Throw in a few new ones that you'd like them to try as well. For an even funner homemade idea, see the resource section after this article for make your own at home for an afternoon snack!

3. Place a smaller bowl in the center of the serving platter. Fill it with cottage cheese or a cheese ball for dipping the other cheese into. (This makes it almost like a chip and dip platter!) See the resource section for make your own ball.

4. Use a little paring knife to slice the different cheeses. The smaller blade and handle will give you more control on how you cut the block up. Experiment with different shapes and sizes when trying to figure out serve a cheese plate for kids. You can just slice them off in rectangles or cut them all up in small cubes. To do this, just slice a thicker rectangle off the cube, then cut that into fourths. They don't have to be perfect, children just like different.

5. Put a colorful toothpick in each piece of cheese. Buy the toothpicks that have the plastic streamers hanging off the end. If you can't find those anywhere, get some food coloring drops and mix them in water like you would for Easter egg coloring. Leave the toothpicks in the homemade dye until the desired hues are reached. Place one in each individual slice for easy finger grabbing.

6. Scrunch up small pieces of the colored saran wrap. Put them on the large serving platter around the bowl of cottage cheese and place the individual bites of different cheeses on the wrap. You can create a pattern like setting them up in circles that start small in the center and get larger towards the rim or just scatter the different flavors randomly.

7. Slice up some apples to put them on the platter along side the cheeses. This is especially good with a sharp cheddar. You can also add crackers or any other finger foods that your children like for variety.

8. Present them in style. When trying to figure out serve a cheese plate for kids that they will truly enjoy for an afternoon snack, make it a mini-party. All you have to do is buy some colorful plastic cups that match the saran wrap to serve their drinks in and you have an instant treat. The bonus for you is the easy cleanup. All you have to do is wash the platter. Everything else can just be tossed!

Tags: cheese plate, cheese plate kids, plate kids, saran wrap, serve cheese

Make Communion Bread

The best communion bread will be tender and chewy but firm enough to tear or break into pieces without crumbling, holding it's shape when dipped into wine or grape juice. Such a bread isn't as difficult to make as you might think.

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

2. Sift the whole-wheat flour and all-purpose flour together and stir in the baking powder and salt. Sift the dry ingredients together two more times.

3. Stir the vegetable oil into the dry ingredients.

4. Add the hot water, molasses and honey to the dry ingredients and mix until it forms a sticky dough. If the dough is too dry, add additional hot water a teaspoon at a time until it reaches the proper consistency.

5. Divide the dough into four equal pieces and flatten them into round pieces about 1/4 inch thick.

6. Use a sharp knife to score the top of the communion bread into small wedges, like a pie. Doing so will make it easier to break the bread into pieces during communion.

7. Place the communion bread on an ungreased baking sheet and bake them for 10 minutes. Brush the tops of the loaves lightly with oil and bake them for 5 to 8 more minutes. Allow the bread to cool on wire racks.

Tags: communion bread, bake them, bread into, into pieces

Make Penrose Sausage

Make Penrose Sausage

The earliest recorded pickled sausage recipe dates back to about 1888 and comes to us from a pub owner in London who decided to sell the tasty morsels as an attraction to get more custom. Penrose sausages are a brand of pickled sausages made by the Penrose Company which discontinued selling jarred meats in 2009 due to the high costs. You can make a sausage very similar to Penrose pickled sausage in your own kitchen.

Instructions

1. Cook 2 lbs. of kielbasa and slice it into thick pieces 2 inches wide. Place the cut sausages in sterile jars.

2. Place 1 cup of water, 3/4 of a cup of brown sugar, 3 cups of vinegar and 1 tsp. of crushed red pepper into a saucepan and bring to a boil.

3. Lower the heat and simmer the ingredients for five minutes. Pour the mixture over the sliced sausages, loosely seal the jars and refrigerate for at least two days.

4. Layer sterilized jars with 1/2 inch of sausages and 1/2 inch of sliced onion until the jars are filled to within 2 inches of the top.

5. Mix together 1/2 cup of white sugar and 3/4 of a cup of vinegar in the measuring cup. Add enough water to make the mixture an even 2 cups.

6. Stir with a wooden spoon until the sugar is dissolved. Pour the mixture into the jars with the onions and sausages and cover and refrigerate for at least two days.

Tags: jars with, least days, Make Penrose, Make Penrose Sausage, Penrose Sausage, pickled sausage, Pour mixture

Pop Popcorn On The Stovetop

Stove-top popcorn has a taste very different than that of microwave or air-popped corn. Once thought of as an old-fashioned way to pop corn, this style of popping is making a comeback. It isn't that hard to do and once you try it, you're likely to want it again and again.

Instructions

1. The most important thing to remember about the corn itself is freshness. The older the corn, the drier the inside of the kernel will get. That internal moisture is what expands in the heat and leads the kernel to explode, so the fresher the corn, the fewer unpopped kernels. You also want to pick an oil that has a high smoke point. Olive oil is a bad choice, because it smokes at a very low temperature. Canola oil is a perfect candidate because it can be heated to a very high temperature and doesn't impart any flavors.

2. Put the canola oil into the sauce pot over medium high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the popcorn kernels and jiggle the pot to distribute evenly. Let the corn heat, undisturbed, on the stove top. Once the first kernel pops, it's time to start moving again.

3. Grab the lid and cover the pot on the stove top immediately. Begin shaking the pot back and forth gently. The kernels should begin popping in rapid succession. The majority will pop within 3 minutes or so. Once the popping begins to slow, turn the heat down while continuing to shake the pot for the last few kernels to pop. Once there is a pause longer than 4 or 5 seconds between each pop, remove from the stove top and pour the popcorn into the nearby bowl.

4. Season the popcorn with salt immediately. Less is more. Use a teaspoon or two to start, then add more if needed. Fresh grated Parmesan cheese is an excellent topper as well, as is fresh ground black pepper.

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Make Split Pea Soup

Hot soup for dinner!

Winter is here, and it's a great time to make a big pot of split pea soup and ham. Serve it up hot with crusty French bread, a salad and some red wine. Eat hearty, then relax by the fire with a good movie. The perfect night in.

Instructions

Pot O' Soup

1. Open bag of split peas and pour into crock pot, cover with 2 cups of water.

2. Add hamhocks to water and peas. Cover with another cup of water. Then added vegetables and spices. Cover crock pot and cook on Low for 6 hours. Everything can be put in the crock pot the night before. Then turn on the crock pot on your way out the door to work. Dinner will be waiting for you.

3. This is an optional step, but it makes the soup so very smooth and rich. Remove ham hocks and carrots from crock pot with slotted spoon and set aside. Using an electric mixer on high, mix the split soup, to a smooth texture, as thick as gravy.

4. Put carrots back into pot. Remove any skin from hamhocks and cut meat into small pieces.

5. Heat bread in a preheated 375 degree F oven. Prepare salad while bread is heating

6. Set table, light candles, pour the wine and enjoy your delicious meal as the snow falls outside.

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Where Did Kraft Originate

Kraft Foods began as small cheese business over 100 years ago.

Kraft Foods Company, which has expanded to become the second-largest food company in the world, originated as a one-man cheese business in Chicago, Illinois, in the early 1900s.

Founder

James L. Kraft was born on December 11, 1874, in Ontario, Canada. In 1903 Kraft began selling cheese to local grocers in the city of Chicago. He saw his company through several mergers and expansions before he died of surgical complications in 1953.

Significance

Kraft eventually developed and patented a method of pasteurizing cheese that allowed it a long enough shelf life for greater distribution. Although it angered some cheese manufacturers who argued that Kraft was "killing" the cheese, the process changed the dairy industry for good.

Growth

The Kraft Food Company now encompasses over 65 brands and exceeds $40 billion in revenue annually. Although the company still maintains offices and plants in Chicago, it has now expanded globally with locations in over 30 countries.

Tags: cheese business, Kraft Foods

Making A Taco Salad

Instead of guacamole, add sliced avocado to your taco salads.

A taco salad is a meal that includes plenty of vegetables as well as the traditional flavor of Mexican food. Spice up your salad by using salsa with a little heat or tossing chopped jalapenos in the mix. Serve a vegetarian version by replacing the beef with Spanish rice. You can also replace the ground beef with ground turkey, strips of chicken breast or thinly sliced steak. By baking the tortilla shells for the salad bowls instead of deep-frying them, you save calories and fat.

Instructions

Baked Tortilla Bowls

1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with a silicone baking mat to prevent the jars from sliding. Place four oven-proof pint-size canning jars upside-down and spaced out across the lined baking sheet.

2. Microwave four 10-inch flour tortillas for 20 seconds. Spray each side lightly with oil. Place each tortilla over the top of the overturned jars. Press the sides of the tortillas down around the jars so they form a bowl shape.

3. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 10 minutes or until brown. Remove the baking sheet and allow the tortillas to cool before removing them from the jars.

Layering the Taco Salad

4. Divide a 15-ounce can of refried beans between the four tortilla bowls. Press the beans in the bottom of each bowl.

5. Add 1 pound of ground beef to a frying pan. Cook the meat over medium heat until brown, which should take approximately 10 minutes. Stir in a packet of taco seasoning and add water according to the packet instructions. Finish cooking the meat by following the instructions on the seasoning packet.

6. Spoon 1/4-pound of the seasoned beef into each tortilla bowl over the beans. Spread the beef out in an even layer.

7. Sprinkle 1/2 a cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the meat in each bowl. Top the cheese with one cup of shredded iceberg lettuce. Add 1/4 cup of diced tomatoes on top of the lettuce in every bowl.

8. Top the bowls of taco salad with 1/4 cup of salsa, 1/4 cup of guacamole and 1/4 cup of sour cream arranged in a triangular shape. Serve immediately.

Tags: baking sheet, beef with, each bowl, each tortilla, ground beef, until brown

Where Buy Milk Paint

Milk paint is one of the oldest paints known to man. There are three simple ingredients: milk, lime and earth pigments for color. It dates as far back as 20,000 years ago and was even found in artwork within the tomb of King Tutankhamen (King Tut). Today, the recipe for milk paint has been altered slightly to improve and increase its drying time, but it still remains one of the most organic and environmentally friendly types of paint on the market.

Home Improvement Stores

Most home improvement stores now carry organic, eco-friendly paint products, including milk paint. Chain stores like Home Depot and Lowe's carry a large color selection.

Hardware Stores

Many hardware stores also sell milk paint. Visit the paint and wood stain section of your local store, or call ahead to check availability. Most hardware stores have a catalog you can browse and order from if the store does not have what you're looking for on hand. The item can either be shipped to the store or to your home.

Woodcraft Supply Stores

As milk paint is used on many wood crafts such as doors, trims, etc., most woodcraft supply stores also carry the paint in a variety of colors.

Antique Shops

Many antique shops also sell milk paint, as it is known to be associated with older decor and is perfect for restoring antique furniture and other projects.

Online Retailers

Online retailers like MilkPaint.com and RealMilkPaint.com carry milk paint in a variety of colors. These retailers allow you to shop their selection, request free samples and browse a list of dealers near you. You can avoid shipping costs if you have your item shipped to a dealer.

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Cut A Fennel Bulb Into Matchsticks

Fennel bulbs with stalks

Many recipes call for a fennel bulb cut into matchstick, or julienne, slices. While this task can be performed using a kitchen mandolin or other slicing device, it is just as simple to accomplish using a sharp knife. Fennel ads a slight licorice taste to salads or other dishes and can be served raw or cooked. Look for fennel in your grocer's produce section or at farmer's markets during the summer season.

Instructions

1. Cut both the stalk end and the root end from the fennel bulb using a sharp knife.

2. Peel away the outer layers of the bulb, much as you would the skin of an onion, until you reach the creamy white center of the bulb.

3. Cut the bulb in half, lengthways, from top to bottom.

4. Lay the bulb halves, cut side down, on your cutting board.

5. Cut the bulb halves into 1/8- to 1/16-inch slices, slicing from the top to the bottom of the bulb.

6. Lay the slices on their sides, flat, and cut each slice into 1/8- to 1/16-inches strips to create the matchsticks.

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When Is A Fresh Pineapple Ripe Enough To Cut

Pineapple get picked when they are ripe, not before.

Some fruits ripen off the tree, as sugars concentrate. Pineapple isn't one of them. The fruit flavor can change once picked, but the pineapple will not ripen more. This fruit has a couple of indicators that tell you it is ready to be cut. Fruits that are too ripe also have visual indicators; these lack a good flavor and do not store well.

Appearance

Pineapples get harvested when they are ripe, not before. The exterior of the fruit will be brown and yellow. A dull yellow color indicated an old fruit that will have poor quality; a bright color indicated a fresher fruit. Discoloration or spots indicate a fruit that is bruised, so avoid those. Also look for leaves that are firm, not dry. Dry leaves are another indication of age.

Smell

Pineapples smell when ripe. To test if a pineapple is ripe for cutting, hold it to your nose and sniff. You should smell a faint pineapple scent. Use smell and appearance in combination when selecting pineapples and deciding when to cut them, since even pineapples that are old or of poor quality will smell ripe.

Storage

Pineapples are best kept at room temperature, until sliced. As you leave pineapples on the counter, the yellow hues deepen. This is normal and also indicates a slight change in flavor of the fruit, although not an increase in sweetness. Pineapples can be damaged at temperatures below 40 degrees F, so they do not last long in the refrigerator. Store cut pineapple slices in the refrigerator and consume within a few days, for best flavor.

Myths

The "Sugarloaf" cultivar of pineapple has loose leaves at the crown that pull out easily when touched. As J. Morton of Purdue University indicates, this gave rise to a belief that pineapples were ripe to be cut when you could pull the leaves out of the crown easily. There is no relationship between the looseness of the leaves and ripeness for eating of the fruit.

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Wheat Pasta Types

Whole wheat pasta has gained popularity among nutritionists and diners as a healthier alternative to regular pasta. Whole wheat pasta is made from protein-rich, ground whole durum wheat and also comes in varieties blended with whole grains such as barley and oats. Whole wheat pasta packs nearly three times the fiber of regular pasta and is sold in varieties including rotini, penne, linguine, spaghetti and shells.

Rotini

The Italian word for "twists," rotini is shaped like a corkscrew, and it originated from northern Italy. The shape of rotini makes it ideal for dishes that require a lot of sauce, and it is also frequently used in pasta salad recipes. Whole wheat rotini is generally boiled in 4 to 6 qt. of water for about 10 minutes, depending on the hardness or softness desired.

Penne

Penne is the Latin word for "feathers," and this pasta is long and tubular with ridges across its surface. Whole wheat penne is often used in dishes that require pasta to be mixed with cheese and meat and baked in the oven because it holds its shape very well. Penne is also used to make cold salads and cooks in as little as six minutes, ideal for making quick meals.

Linguine

The Italian word for "little tongues," linguine is a flat, narrow pasta that originated in the south of Italy. Whole wheat linguine is often used in pasta dishes made with clam sauce and cream sauce, and it also works well with recipes that feature thick tomato sauce, which clings to the sturdy pasta.

Spaghetti

Spaghetti means "strings" in Italian, and this is probably the most popular and well-known pasta in the world. Most commonly used with meat sauce, meatballs or plain tomato sauce, wheat spaghetti can also be used in soup dishes and pasta salads. The thin version of whole wheat spaghetti has many of the same uses as the regular version, and is also perfect for stir-fry dishes.

Pasta Shells

Created by the citizens of Naples and Genoa who lived by the sea, mezzo conchighlie, which means "medium shells" in English, are shaped like seashells and knurled with ridges. Because the shells have a natural hollow, they soak in the flavors of sauces made from tomato, pesto and cream, and hold meat sauces without breaking up into pieces. They are also used in pasta salads and can be tossed with olive oil and pine nuts for a quick, easy-to-make side dish.

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