A Baker's Dozen: Kitchen Tips
by Cyndi Roberts
1. Nuts can be stored in the freezer for up to a year--shelled or not.
2. If you have a small amount of milk that you don't think you can use before it spoils, pour it into ice cube trays and freeze. After they are frozen, pop out and store in resealable bags or freezer containers.
3. When slicing apples, keep them from turning brown by dipping them in lemon-lime soda.
4. Use your electric knife to slice angel food cake and you won't have squashed slices!
5. Spray your knife with cooking spray before cutting meringue-topped pies and the meringue will cut cleanly.
6. Cube leftover ham and store in the freezer . . . it's handy to add to mac and cheese, omelets, etc.
7. Did you know you can make many pie recipes without the crust? Just pour the filling into a pie pan that has been sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. Examples: pumpkin, custard, buttermilk
8. Many people don't know that potato chips will keep for months if stored in the freezer.
9. Too tired to cook, but don't want to buy dinner out? Just stop by the deli and buy a roasted chicken, then add your own veggies for a quick, not-as-expensive-as-takeout meal!
10. Make your own breadstick dipping sauce by adding Italian seasoning to tomato paste or sauce.
11. When you don't have half-and-half, you can substitute 1 cup of evaporated milk for 1 cup of half-and-half.
12. Kitchen cleaning tip: you can use baking soda as a substitute for scouring powder.
13. Save money by buying vegetable oil in the large size (when it's on sale!). Keep a smaller bottle in your cupboard and just refill it when necessary.
Cyndi Roberts is the editor of the bi-weekly e-newsletter "1 Frugal Friend 2 Another", bringing you practical, money-saving tips, recipes and ideas. Visit her online at http://www.cynroberts.com to subscribe and receive the free e-course, "Taming the Monster Grocery Bill".
