Be Super Thrifty And Frugal

Increase savings by decreasing expenses.

Penny pincher, moneygrubber, tightwad and cheapskate all mean you hang onto every dollar as long as possible. Being thrifty is an asset. While others are whizzing away their hard-earned cash, you sock yours away in the bank. You don't have to spend hours clipping coupons, be deprived or give up the good things in life to be super thrifty.

Prioritize

Take a hard look at what's important to you and your family. Being super thrifty doesn't mean you have to give up everything. Cut way back on expenses that don't make a big difference in your life and splurge -- a little -- on those that do. That way, you won't feel you're giving up too much, and you'll be more likely to stick with a stringent spending plan.

Food

Prepare your own food. That one step alone will save hundreds of dollars a month. A fast food lunch will set you back at least $5 each workday. That's at least $100 a month right there. Bring your own morning latte to save another $3 to $4 per day. Frozen entrees are convenient, but they cost four to five times the price of the ingredients. For example, a chicken pasta primavera is about $3.50. Make a batch yourself for less than 75 cents a serving. If you want to go super thrifty, eat vegetarian dinners three times a week. Beans cost pennies a pound.

Clothing

Stock up on the basics like underwear, socks and T-shirts at big box stores when they go on sale. That usually doesn't happen more than twice a year. Shop at the end of the season for next year. In other words, buy summer clothing at huge discounts in September and a new winter coat at the end of March. Repair instead of replace clothing and shoes. Stay away from brands. A pair of name-brand sports shoes can cost triple what a generic sport shoe costs. Be really frugal and skip buying new clothes for one season. Wear last year's clothes.

Entertainment

Going to the movie theaters costs a pretty penny. Throw in popcorn and a drink and you've probably spent $20 for two hours of entertainment. Check out movies from the library at no cost. View movies over your Internet connection or order through satellite or cable services. If you absolutely must see a new release, go during the afternoon for matinee prices and avoid the popcorn and cola. All that salt, fat and sugar isn't good for you anyway.

Cash Only or Almost Only

Credit card interest rates average about 14.9 percent at time of publication. It's difficult to travel without a credit card. Most hotels won't accept a reservation without one. Credit cards have the advantage that you can dispute a charge if the merchandise isn't what was promised. However, if you want to save money, paying cash is the better alternative. Cash-back cards sound like a good deal but have limitations on how much cash you can earn back on what types of products and services. The interest rate tends to be higher on rewards cards, and you may have to pay an annual fee.

Tags: super thrifty, cards have

Microwave Beef Jerky

Quickly transform raw beef into jerky using a microwave.

Beef jerky is a convenient snack made of strips of beef that have been marinated or smoked and dried. Make your own beef jerky at home to save money and create customized flavors. Beef jerky marinades range from spicy to sweet, so choose the flavor profile that fits your tastes. If you're short on time, make the beef jerky using your microwave instead of an oven. Treat family and friends to homemade beef jerky as thoughtful holiday gifts. Beef jerky is easy to transport and makes ideal camping and hiking treats. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Place two pounds of raw thin-cut flank steak, chuck roast or brisket on a cutting board. Use a sharp knife to trim the excess fat from the beef. Cut the meat into 1/8-inch strips.

2. Create a marinade. Combine ½ cup each of Worcestershire sauce and soy sauce, 2 tbsp. of liquid smoke and seasoned salt, garlic and onion powder, and black pepper to taste in a mixing bowl. Add sugar to taste to give the jerky a touch of sweetness. Use a pre-made sweet and savory teriyaki marinade for convenience. Stir the marinade with a large spoon.

3. Set the meat strips in a shallow metal or glass baking pan. Pour the marinade evenly over the meat. Cover the pan with a lid or a piece of plastic wrap. Place the pan in a refrigerator and allow it to marinate overnight.

4. Place the marinated beef strips on a microwavable bacon rack. Cover the meat with paper towel.

5. Set the microwave to high power and cook the meat strips for 2 ½ minutes. Turn the strips over using tongs and cook them for another 1 ½ minutes. Turn the strips one more time and cook them for another 1/ ½ minutes or more, depending on the thickness of the meat.

6. Remove the jerky from the microwave and allow it to cool for at least five minutes prior to eating.

Tags: another minutes, cook them, cook them another, jerky using, meat strips

Make Biodiesel Fuel Kits

An average backyard mechanic can make a homemade biodiesel processor in four hours.

Making biodiesel fuel kits can come in handy for a diesel powered vehicle. The main components are readily accessible and can be "brewed" with minimal knowledge of the chemical processes involved. The average backyard mechanic can make a biodiesel processor in about four hours.

Instructions

Making a biodiesel fuel processor kit

1. Build a processor. Mount the large tank on a solid platform, then connect the bottom of the smaller tank to the top of the large tank with a valved pipe. The platform can simply be lumber 2x4s, or more elaborate stands made of steel and concrete. The objective is to raise the tank up, so that the bottom valve can be accessed. The smaller tank should be mounted above the large one, so that the smaller tank can be emptied into it. The pipe can be attached with screw-type standard plumbing adapters. There should be an exit valve at the bottom of the large tank, with a pump and hose connected to it. Hot water heaters make ideal units for this purpose, as they already have the design necessary and are inexpensive.

2. Obtain a source of use cooking oil or compatible biodiesel oil. Most people use waste grease from local restaurants, but most plain vegetable oils will work. Pour filtered grease into the large tank to about 75% capacity.

3. Mix around 7 grams of lye to several gallons of methanol in the smaller tank. The amount of lye should be adjusted to the pH level of the waste oil, so it should be tested before mixing. The lye serves as a binder for the methanol and waste oil, so the higher the pH of the oil, the more lye should be used. Once the lye is dissolved into the methanol, open the valve to dump the mixture into the waste oil tank.

4. Stir the waste oil with the combined lye/methanol mixture until it is mixed thoroughly. It can have an internal pumping mechanism to do this over the course of the brew time, but simply stirring the mixture by hand is acceptable, as long as it is done completely.

5. Allow 24 hours for the oil to "brew" completely. The chemical process going on inside the tank will produce a byproduct, glycerin, that should be disposed of properly. Recycling the glycerin as a compost activator is common. The process is much like brewing beer, as the glycerin will settle to the bottom of the tank and can be pumped out before it hardens.

6. Once the glycerin is removed, pump the remaining biodiesel product to a filtered storage tank or directly into the vehicle. A simple cranking hand pump can be attached to the lower valve, and a long hose can place the fluid into storage.

7. Filter any particles or unwanted glycerin in the fluid. Simple mesh coffee filters can suffice to filter the finished biodiesel product, or more professional filters can be installed inline. Some final top layer particles may exist, and should be discarded. The tank will require cleaning and drying before using for the next batch of biodiesel.

Tags: large tank, smaller tank, average backyard, average backyard mechanic, backyard mechanic, backyard mechanic make

Instructions To Boil An Egg

A hard-boiled egg has a firm yolk.

Boiled eggs are versatile as part of a breakfast or in other dishes. For example, you can use hard-boiled eggs to make deviled eggs, egg salad, Scotch eggs or as part of a Cobb salad or potato salad. Cooking the perfect boiled egg can be difficult because you cannot see the progress the egg is making through the shell. Because timing is so important for a soft-boiled egg, these should start in boiling water. Hard-boiled eggs are less likely to develop a rubbery texture if you start them in cold water instead. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

Soft-Boiled Eggs

1. Bring at least 4 inches of water to a boil in a pot.

2. Lower the eggs into the water with a slotted spoon. They should be in a single layer on the bottom of the pan.

3. Start your timer as soon as you put the last egg in the pot.

4. Turn the heat down and maintain it at a simmer throughout the cooking.

5. Remove the eggs with a slotted spoon after the correct amount of time has elapsed. For soft-boiled eggs, cook large eggs for four minutes from room temperature or six minutes from refrigerator temperature. Subtract 30 seconds for medium-sized eggs or add 30 seconds for extra-large or jumbo eggs.

Hard-Boiled Eggs

6. Place eggs in a single layer on the bottom of the pot.

7. Fill the pot with cold water until it covers the eggs by at least 1 inch.

8. Put the pan on the stove over high heat and bring the water to a rolling boil.

9. Remove the pan from the heat, cover it and leave the eggs in the water for 15 minutes. Medium eggs only take about 12 minutes and extra-large eggs need about 18 minutes. Add two minutes to any of the times if the eggs came straight from the refrigerator rather than starting at room temperature.

10. Remove the eggs from the water with a slotted spoon when the correct amount of time has elapsed. Run cold water over them until they are cool to the touch.

Tags: cold water, slotted spoon, with slotted, with slotted spoon, about minutes, amount time, amount time elapsed

Thanksgiving Turkey Cooking Ideas

This Thanksgiving, consider cooking your turkey in a new way.

Cooking turkey for the Thanksgiving holiday can be a long and challenging experience. Although many people cook their turkey the traditional way---in the oven---there are a few unique ways to cook your Thanksgiving bird. Regardless of which process you choose, it is best to marinate and season the turkey first. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Roasting Turkey

Roasting a turkey involves cooking it in an aluminum container in a conventional oven. This approach can take anywhere from three hours to six hours, depending on the size of the turkey and whether or not it is stuffed. It is best to roast the turkey until it reaches an internal temperature of between 165 and 170 degrees Fahrenheit. Roasted a turkey usually leaves it juicy and tender.

Grilling Turkey

To grill a turkey, place it in an aluminum tray and away from direct flames for 12 to 15 minutes per pound. It also is ready to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 to 170 degrees Fahrenheit. Grilled turkeys tend to have a smoky or mesquite taste and can end up slightly dry if over cooked.

Deep-Frying Turkey

You can deep-fry a turkey in a deep fryer or a large pot of hot oil, but either way, you should do so outdoors. Remove the turkey from the oil once it has reached 170 degrees Fahrenheit internally. Deep-fried turkeys typically have a rich, buttery flavor and may be higher in calories and fat than grilled or roasted varieties.

Tags: degrees Fahrenheit, internal temperature, reaches internal, reaches internal temperature

Colleges In Salem Oregon

The state capital of Oregon and its second largest city, Salem sits about 50 miles south of Portland, hosting a metropolitan area of nearly 370,000 people. Several colleges are available to prospective students in the area, some of them ranked nationally.

Willamette University

Across the street from the Oregon State Capitol, this smaller private university is ranked among the top liberal arts colleges by "U.S. News and World Report." Undergraduate programs include Asian studies, humanities, religious studies, biology and psychology. Graduate degrees are offered in law, management and education. The school also partners with Tokyo International University to host 100 Japanese students annually.

Willamette University

900 State Street

Salem, Oregon 97301

503-370-6300

willamette.edu

Corban University

This small, private Christian university has been ranked as one of the Top 5 Regional Colleges by "U.S. News and World Report" and regularly is ranked among the "Best in the West" by the Princeton Review. The school offers over fifty degree programs in fields of study that include education, music, health science, social science and ministry studies. Master's degrees are offered in business (MBA), education and counseling.

Corban University

5000 Deer Park Drive SE

Salem, OR 97317

503-581-8600

corban.edu

George Fox University-Salem Center

George Fox University is listed on Forbes Magazines' list of America's Best Colleges. In addition to its main campus in Newberg, Oregon, the school has an extension campus in Salem focusing on adult education and offering a limited array of degrees. These include bachelor's degrees in elementary education, project management and management/organizational leadership, and master's degrees in teaching, mental health counseling and marriage, couple and family therapy.

George Fox University-Salem Center

Capitol City Business Center

4600 25th Avenue NE Suite 150

Salem, OR 97301

971-239-4930

georgefox.edu

Chemeketa Community College

With multiple campuses throughout the surrounding area, this two-year school maintains its main campus in Salem, offering a wide range of both undergraduate-transferable and career-focused programs. Transfer programs include studies in biology, criminal justice, agriculture, and philosophy; professional programs include accounting, nursing, early childhood education and juvenile corrections. The vocational nature of this school draws many students from all age brackets.

Chemeketa Community College

4000 Lancaster Drive NE

Salem, OR 97309

503-399-5000

chemeketa.edu

Tags: programs include, campus Salem, Chemeketa Community, Chemeketa Community College, Community College, Corban University

Melt Peanut Butter Chips

Melt peanut butter chips for some recipes like peanut butter fudge cake.

Peanut butter chips can add the rich, creamy flavor of peanut butter to many dessert recipes. They tend to be sweeter than most plain peanut butters and offer a smooth consistency without chunks or graininess. You can include whole peanut butter chips in some dishes for bursts of peanut flavor. Depending on the recipe or dish you wish to create, however, you may need to melt the peanut butter chips to better mix them with the other ingredients. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

Microwave

1. Put 1 cup of peanut butter chips into a microwave-safe bowl. Add 2 tsp. shortening or ½ cup cream or condensed milk.

2. Microwave the bowl at 50 percent power for one minute, then remove the bowl from the microwave and stir the contents thoroughly. If there are only a few lumps, stir the melted chips for a few more seconds to see if the lumps melt. If not, or if there are more than a few lumps, return the bowl to the microwave for 15 seconds.

3. Remove the bowl from the microwave and stir it again. If necessary, return it to the microwave for another 15 seconds. Repeat this process until the chips melt completely.

Stovetop

4. Put 1 cup of peanut butter chips into a heavy saucepan. Add ½ cup cream or condensed milk.

5. Put the saucepan on the stove over low heat.

6. Stir the mixture in the saucepan occasionally until the peanut butter chips melt and blend with the cream or condensed milk.

Tags: butter chips, peanut butter chips, butter chips, condensed milk, cream condensed, cream condensed milk

Make Roast Turkey With Pork And Rice Stuffing

Roast turkey with pork and rice stuffing is a traditional dish served at Christmas banquets and family gatherings in China. Borrowing heavily from the typical American Thanksgiving holiday menu, this roast turkey with pork and rice stuffing recipe adds a few ingredients typically found in Chinese cooking, including soy sauce, coriander leaves and chopped cooked pork. Served with a crisp green salad or fresh sautéed green beans, roast turkey with pork and rice stuffing makes an exceptional meal for a special event, and can be a wonderful way to spice up traditional Thanksgiving meals. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Wash the turkey under warm water and dry with a disposable kitchen towel. Place the turkey in a large roasting dish and rub the inside with the cooking sherry, salt and pepper. Melt the butter and brush over the outside of the turkey. Cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and let marinate in the refrigerator for 4 hours. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.

2. Heat the butter over low heat in a sauté pan and fry the onions until soft and translucent. Add the cooked pork and fry for 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in the chicken bullion cube that has been dissolved in water and cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes. Add the coriander leaves, almonds, crumbled bacon and ham. Mix well and set aside to cool.

3. Stuff the turkey with the rice and pork mixture. Close the cavity by folding the flaps of skin inward and placing a skewer between them. This will keep the stuffing from falling out as it expands during cooking.

4. Remove the turkey from the baking dish, and place it on a rack in the oven. Put a baking tray with 1/3 cup of water under the turkey to catch the fat that drips off during cooking. You will use this to baste the turkey as it cooks.

5. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for 3 hours. The turkey should be a light brown color; reduce the heat to 350 degrees F and cook for an additional 45 minutes, or until the turkey is golden brown. Baste the turkey with the fat that collects in the baking tray every 15 minutes during the cooking process.

6. Remove the turkey from the oven once the skin is golden brown and lightly crispy. Set aside for 20 to 25 minutes to cool before slicing.

Tags: turkey with, during cooking, pork rice, turkey with pork, with pork rice, additional minutes

Make Cracked Wheat Cereal

Make Cracked Wheat Cereal

Wheat is an ideal emergency storage item. It stores better than just about any other food. It also packs a lot of nutrients and has been a staple of many people for thousands of years. Turning your storage wheat into bread however, is a long and difficult process. Almost all bread recipes require other ingredients that do not store well, such as oil and yeast. You also need an oven, that may not be available if there's no power. Making cracked wheat cereal from your storage wheat is quick and easy. It takes less than 20 minutes, and that includes grinding the wheat. This recipe makes 4, 4-ounce servings. This article is part of my "Survive the Collapse of Civilization" series. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Purchase a hand grain grinder if you don't already have one. They can be found on the web for about $75. Check the links on this page. It doesn't take long to grind wheat by hand, and if the power is out, an electric grinder will be of no use.

2. Attach the Grinder to a sturdy table. You may need to place a small piece of cardboard under the foot of the grinder to prevent damage to your table.

3. Grind the wheat into a coarse flour. Use only what you will need for the next week or so. In a cool, dry place, wheat stores for about 30 years. Once it's "cracked" or ground into flour, it's shelf life is much less. Using the grinder in the picture, it takes me less than 1 minute to grind a cup of wheat.

4. In a small saucepan, bring water and salt to a boil.

5. Quickly stir in the cracked wheat and continue to stir to prevent lumps.

6. Reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pan and cool about 15 minutes stirring occasionally.

7. I add milk and sugar, but you can serve with a variety of condiments such as chopped apples, raisins or other dried fruit, brown sugar, honey, cinnamon sugar, coconut, fresh berries or bananas.

Tags: cracked wheat, Cracked Wheat, grind wheat, less than, Make Cracked, Make Cracked Wheat, storage wheat

Clean Turkey Feathers

Clean your turkey feathers before using them.

Gathering feathers for crafting or pillow stuffing is an enjoyable hobby. Turkeys shed large feathers frequently so it is easy to gather feathers quickly. After you have assembled your pile of feathers, you need to clean them. Turkey feathers can be dirty or soiled by turkey droppings. No one wants to handle smelly feathers. Clean them up in just a few steps using ingredients you have around your home.

Instructions

Powder Method

1. Fill a zippered storage bag with ½ cup of flour. Add 1 cup of corn meal along with 3 tbsp. of oxygen-based powder cleaner.

2. Add the dirty feathers to the bag.

3. Zip the bag up and shake it, blending the feathers and powder together. Continue to shake the bag until the feathers are clean.

4. Remove the feathers from the bag and shake the excess powder from them one by one.

Soap Method

5. Fill a plastic bucket with warm water. While the water is running, add a capful of gentle liquid detergent to the water.

6. Add the feathers to the soapy water. Swirl the feathers around the water with a long-handled wooden spoon.

7. Empty the water from the bucket and then add fresh water to the bucket. Swirl the feathers in the clean water.

8. Empty the bucket and remove the feathers.

9. Smooth the feathers gently and reshape them. Hold the feathers by the quill and blow-dry them.

Tags: feathers clean, Method Fill, Swirl feathers

Make A "Baby'S First Year" Scrapbook

Memory books are a great way to create a lasting, unique tribute to your baby's first year. Even if you don't consider yourself to be artistic, it's easy to create something touching and beautiful.

Instructions

1. Make sure you have negatives for all the prints you plan to use. This way, you can replace them if necessary.

2. Sort through your prints carefully - choose only the best for your scrapbook, and keep the others in an archival quality photo box for later use.

3. Record major milestones such as first food, first step and when the first tooth made its debut.

4. Arrange your photos in groups according to themes, not just chronologically. You could have a "bath time" layout, a "trips to the zoo" page and so on.

5. Avoid discarding duplicates or very similar pictures - they can often become part of creative layouts.

6. Cut, crop, trim and silhouette your photos. Remember, you have the negatives, so you can always replace a print.

7. Leave some blank space. Rather than placing photos close together and filling up the whole page, leave space for headlines, captions, journal entries, and stickers or drawings.

8. Lay out everything in a number of different configurations before you glue it into place.

9. Be creative and have fun.

Tags: have negatives, your photos

Roast A Three Pound Turkey

You can roast a three pound turkey breast in under two hours.

When you are only cooking for a few people, roasting a turkey breast can be more economical and convenient than roasting an entire turkey. You need less than a pound of turkey to feed each person as a main dish, so roasting an entire turkey of 12, 15 or even 20 pounds can be overkill when you are only serving a few people. Roasting a turkey breast also takes significantly less time than roasting an entire turkey, leaving your oven free for other dishes. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Season your turkey breast by peeling the skin partially away from the meat and rubbing any seasonings into the pocket between the meat and skin. Rub the skin with oil or fat (such as melted butter or bacon grease) if you wish to make it crisper.

2. Put a rack in a roasting pan, then put the seasoned turkey breast on the rack. Place the pan, rack and turkey breast into the oven and bake until a meat thermometer says that the inside of the breast is at least 154 degrees Fahrenheit. This will probably take 75 to 90 minutes.

3. Remove the turkey from the oven when it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Allow the turkey to rest for approximately 20 minutes, then carve and serve it.

Tags: turkey breast, degrees Fahrenheit, entire turkey, roasting entire, roasting entire turkey, pound turkey, than roasting

Consumer'S Guide For Convection Toaster Ovens

The bigger the interior, the more food you can heat with convection ovens.

Convection toaster ovens are ideal for those who don't already own a traditional oven and prefer to keep it that way. Consumers must weigh a variety of factors before purchasing a convection toaster oven, including budget and amount of available kitchen space. The best convection ovens on the market will always be a matter of personal opinion, though some have been proven to outperform others. Does this Spark an idea?

The Best

Consumer Search has ranked the Breville The Smart Oven BOV800XL as the best convection toaster oven for 2011. With an estimated starting price of $250, the Breville convection toaster oven has been praised for its large capacity, auto-eject rack and easy-to-clean design. This model features nine different cooking settings, a removable crumb tray and an automatic shutoff feature. Accessories include a 12- by 12-inch enamel baking pan, a 12- by 12-inch enamel broil tray, and a 13-inch nonstick pizza pan. The overall length of this model is 18.5 inches, the overall depth is 16.25 inches, and the overall height is 11.25 inches. Consumers will receive a 1-year warranty for parts and labor.

The Cuisinart

The Cuisinart TOB-195 convection toaster oven has been praised by both consumers and experts for its ability to evenly bake, toast and broil at a quick rate. With an estimated starting price of $180 as of 2011, the Cuisinart TOB-195 has seven different settings including bake/pizza, toast, bagel, reheat, defrost and broil. This model will automatically shut off after four hours, and the crumb tray can be removed from the back. A baking pan and a broil tray come standard. The interior is nonstick. The overall length of this model is 17.75 inches, the overall depth is 16 inches, and the overall height is 9.625 inches. Consumers will receive a three-year warranty. Consumers should be warned, however, that the handle of the toaster can become extremely hot when the machine is in use.

On A Budget

For those looking to purchase a convection toaster oven on a tighter budget, the Hamilton Beach 31197R countertop convection oven is the way to go. With an estimated starting price of $90 as of 2011, the Hamilton Beach convection toaster oven comes standard with two racks, three settings, a timer, two baking pans, a rotisserie skewer, a rotisserie lifter and a broil tray. The overall depth of the oven is 16 inches, the overall length is 19 inches, and the overall height is 13.5 inches. However, some consumers have complained that this model is slow to heat up. This model also lacks a removable crumb tray, clock and auto-eject rack.

Consumers Guide

Consumers looking to purchase a convection toaster oven should know what types of meals they are looking to cook ahead of time. The interior depth of the unit will determine which types of foods can be cooked. For example, those looking to heat a 12 inch pizza will need more interior width, while those looking to cook a whole chicken will need more interior height. Auto-eject racks allow the food to automatically slide out once it's done and the door is opened. Convection toaster ovens that automatically turn off after a set amount of time will help prevent against unwanted fires. Toaster ovens with nonstick interiors will be easier to clean. The three main settings a toaster oven should have are cook function, timer and temperature setting.

Tags: toaster oven, convection toaster oven, inches overall, convection toaster, broil tray

Alternatives To Cheesecloth

Alternatives to Cheesecloth

Cheesecloth is a smooth, woven fabric, which is used traditionally in the straining of whey to make cheese, as well as straining a number of other items in the kitchen. If you need to strain cheese, yogurt, broth or gravy, but don't have cheesecloth on hand, don't fret. There are a number of alternatives to cheesecloth, which you may already have around the house. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Kitchen

Your kitchen is full of items that you can use instead of cheesecloth. The benefit of kitchen items is that they are already sanitized and cleaned for food preparation.

Colanders serve the same function as cheesecloth in straining liquids from any solids. However, many colanders have holes much larger than cheesecloth. If you need to use a colander, use one that consists of a mesh or woven bowl, rather than one that has holes cut into it.

Coffee filters also work well as alternatives to cheesecloth; but coffee filters have the opposite problem than colanders. Coffee filters strain very well. If you need larger particles of your item to get through, then avoid coffee filters.

Tea towels or flour sack towels have a similar woven property to cheesecloth. Use a single layer of these towels as an alternative to a single layer or more of cheesecloth.

Sewing Room

Your sewing room and personal fabric supply may hold alternatives to cheesecloth. Remember that cheesecloth is a colorless or pale fabric that is loosely woven. Avoid fabrics in your stash which have been dyed and may bleed their colors into your food. Blue yogurt may be novel, but not be very appetizing. Also, ensure that whatever fabric you use is both clean and non-toxic.

Muslin is a fabric similar in weaving to cheesecloth, without any pesky colors. Linens and other light fabrics may also work well.

Bedroom

Believe it or not, your bedroom may also be a great place to find cheesecloth alternatives. The only downside is that bedroom items tend to be used on our bodies and may not be particularly appetizing for straining food.

For instance, panty hose, nylons or women's tights are made of a stretchy, semi-permeable fabric, similar to cheesecloth. The long cylindrical aspect of pantyhose, with the closed bottom, is especially appealing for draining cheese or other solids items. A used nylon that has been rubbing against your body doesn't make for appetizing food--you will likely want to employ unused tights.

A man's handkerchief also shares the properties of cheesecloth. Just make sure it hasn't been used yet, or at the very least, wash it well, and don't tell your guests.

Tags: alternatives cheesecloth, also work, also work well, fabric similar, items that, single layer, work well

Substitute Equal For Sugar

How much Equal replaces 1 cup of sugar?

Equal is the brand name of artificial sweetener products containing Aspartame. Equal is most often encountered in packets, and can be used to sweeten hot and cold beverages as well as unbaked desserts. If you plan to substitute Equal for sugar, you must know the proper equivalents when using packets.

Instructions

1. One packet of Equal is the same as two teaspoons of sugar.

Use half a packet of Equal when you would normally use a teaspoon of sugar, or a packet for two teaspoons. Keep this equivalent in mind and multiply as needed for sweetening single beverages or bowls of cereal.

2. Equal adds sweetness to a pitcher of lemonade.

Stir in six packets--the equivalent of 1/4 cup of sugar, according to Equal.com--to sweeten a pitcher of iced tea. Adjust for taste from there.

3. Use eight packets of Equal in recipes that would normally require 1/3 cup of granulated sugar.

4. Equal works best in unbaked desserts.

Add 24 packets of Equal to unbaked pie recipes that call for the addition of one cup of sugar.

5. Try Equal Spoonful instead of packets. One teaspoon of Equal Spoonful adds the same level of sweetness to foods and drinks as one teaspoon of sugar. No conversions are necessary, making it a convenient alternative.

Tags: sugar Equal, Equal Spoonful, packet Equal, packets Equal, recipes that

Vegetarian Restaurants In Rome

Itlalian café

For vegetarians it can often be difficult to find places to eat with decent vegetarian options, especially if you are traveling in a foreign country. Romans love good food and with the wealth of pasta and vegetable dishes found in Italian cuisine, opportunities for vegetarian dishes are plentiful. Scattered throughout Rome are restaurants that specialize in vegetarian food and strive to offer a variety of tasty dishes that bring out the best in Italian and other flavors.

Margutta Ristorante

Margutta Ristorante, located in central Rome, is an upscale vegetarian restaurant that serves brunch, lunch, dinner and also has weekend buffets. Margutta's menu revolves with the seasons and according to new trends in vegetarian cuisine and the chef uses all organic foods. Examples of dishes include artichoke hearts with potato cubes and smoked provolone cheese, frittelline golden corn and Parmesan fusilli with vegetarian sauce, and cheese ravioli. Desserts and an extensive wine menu are also available. Margutta's also showcases local artwork and has occasional live music.

Margutta Ristorante

Via Margutta

118 Rome, Italy 00187

06 32650577

ilmargutta.it

Arancia Blu

Located in the San Lorenzo, University area of Rome, Arancia Blu serves dinner on weekdays, and lunch and dinner on weekends. Arancia Blue specializes in handmade pastas and has extensive offerings of wine, craft beers, tea and desserts. Dishes include unique variations such as quiche with leeks and almonds, lasagna with radicchio and Trevigiano and Taleggio cheese, and ravioli with cream of potato, Gorgonzola and asparagus.

Arancia Blu

Via Prenestina, 396

00171 Rome, Italy

06 4454105

aranciabluroma.com

Beehive Café

For something more casual, try the Beehive Café. Located just down the street from Rome's central train station and part of The Beehive Hotel, the Beehive Café is a vegetarian breakfast joint that uses only organic ingredients. Menu items include granola, vegetable omelets and french toast. Sweet treats include crepes, tarts, cookies, cakes and pies. A full-service espresso bar is also available.

Beehive Café

Via Marghera 8

00185 Rome, Italy

06 44704553

the-beehive.com

Tags: Margutta Ristorante, Rome Italy, also available, cheese ravioli, lunch dinner, Margutta Ristorante Margutta

Different Red Wines

Enjoying a glass of red wine with dinner is a relaxing experience that has been practiced for centuries. However, if you visit a fine restaurant, the wine list can be quite imposing. While there are many excellent red wine varietals, here are the wines most often found to help you choose the perfect red wine. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet sauvignon is a widely respected red wine, and it is popular around the world. Cabernet ages exceptionally well, yet the flavor can change drastically as some of the organic molecules in the wine link together during aging. A full-bodied red on its own, cabernet is also blended with other varietals. The easiest way to enjoy cabernet is with red meat and little else.

Merlot

Merlot wine has seen a resurgence in the past years, thanks in part to the independent film "Sideways," which dealt greatly with wine lovers. Merlot does not offer the bite of a cabernet or chianti, which makes it appealing to those not used to the dryness of red wine. It pairs with basically any food, because it has no strong flavor to itself. While this makes it appealing to newcomers to red wine, these same traits often make merlot less than popular with seasoned red wine connoisseurs.

Shiraz

Shiraz, or syrah as it is known in Europe, is one of the deepest reds available if aged properly. When drinking, it is impossible to ignore the peppery overtones that makes this pair very well with red meat and spicier meals. Shiraz is not a good place to start for those not accustomed to drinking red wine, because it has a significant edge to it. To ease the transition, there are many shiraz/cabernet blends available that maintain the desired qualities of both varietals.

Pinot Noir

Pinot noir is very subtle when compared to some of the other robust red wines, yet it does not suffer from the absent, near watery flavor of merlot. One interesting thing about the pinot noir grape is that its flavor varies wildly depending on where it was grown. Therefore, a California pinot noir and a French pinot noir may almost taste nothing alike, yet both can be very pleasing to drink. Due to its lighter flavor, it makes it a suitable companion for white meats more than reds, which is not normal for red wine but a welcome alternative to bringing out a chardonnay.

Zinfandel

The zinfandel grape is not grown in most red wine areas and instead is grown almost exclusively in California. Most red grapes do poorly in hot environments, but the zinfandel requires it. Zinfandel can be blended into white zinfandel wines, but is best enjoyed as a red. The same overtones as white zinfandel are shared without the nuisance of the sugar that plagues blush wines. Most zinfandels can be enjoyed with many meats that are not exceptionally spiced.

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Raw Food Diets & Health Spas

Spas have begun combining their relaxation techniques with the health benefits of a raw food lifestyle. These raw food diets and health spas are quickly attracting visitors who want to realize the benefits of a raw food diet, such as increased energy to weight loss. For those who are just embarking on a raw food journey, a raw food diets and health spa is the perfect place to begin.

Function

Raw food diets and health spas cater to individuals who are seeking an introduction to a raw food lifestyle, who are seeking treatment for long-term illnesses such as diabetes or who are seeking an intensive detox. Some spas even offer various forms of therapy, spiritual connection, relaxation and healing.

Types

In addition to the typical spa setting, you will find raw food retreats, meditation centers, educational centers, do-it-yourself resorts, bed and breakfast inns and detox retreats. In addition, the types of detox programs vary, from living food and vegetarianism to water and juice fasting.

Geography

Raw food diets and health spas are springing up all over the United States. California, Florida, Illinois, New York, Hawaii, Colorado, Arizona, Texas, Ohio, Washington, Virginia, New Mexico and Michigan boast top-notch spas.

Time Frame

The length of the program at a raw food diets and health spa varies greatly. Whether you simply want to spend a day or have 4 weeks to invest, you can find a program that fits your schedule.

Benefits

A vast range of topics are covered at raw food diets and health spas. Depending on the type of retreat you choose, you will learn develop healthy raw food habits, rebuild your health, overcome bad habits, prepare raw food, create and maintain an organic garden and much more.

Tags: diets health, food diets, food diets health, health spas, diets health spas, benefits food

North Carolina Art Schools

There are schools available in North Carolina for virtually any type of artist.

Whether you aspire to be a pottery maker, a painter, a graphic artist, a filmmaker or an art director, there is a school for you in North Carolina. Art and design fields are expected to see job growth through 2016, with graphic designers and multimedia artists showing the biggest gains. Depending on your goals, there are several types of schools available, including vocational and technical, community colleges, art academies, four-year art schools, colleges and universities.

Careers in Art

Though many art majors work in museums, galleries, schools, advertising agencies, magazines, newspapers and movie studios, more than 60 percent are self-employed. At the top of the salary scale is the art director, with an average salary of about $90,000 per year; a craft artist can earn about $30,000 per year. There is a lot of competition for jobs in the art world, but prospects for job growth are estimated by the Bureau of Labor Statistics to be about 16 percent through 2016.

Art Academies and Workshops

For those who may simply want to dabble in art, an art academy or workshop may be the quickest and cheapest way to go. Classes are usually hands-on and can last one day or a few months. You don't need previous experience for most of these schools, and you can get experience in drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, fine crafts, home decorating or any number of things. Classes such as these are mostly offered by local art studios.

Vocational and Technical Schools

The Art Institute of Raleigh-Durham and the Art Institute of Charlotte are part of a nationwide organization of 45 schools that specializes in the creative and applied arts and offers master's, bachelor's and associate's degree programs, as well as diploma and certificate programs. You can take classes and specialize in design, media, fashion or culinary arts at one of these schools. They also offer an open house, which allows prospective students to visit the school campus.

Colleges and Universities

The University of North Carolina School of the Arts in Winston-Salem offers studies in dance, design and production, drama, filmmaking, music and visual arts. The university boasts graduates in the American Ballet Theatre, the Metropolitan Opera, Broadway, television and movies. The school awards high school diplomas, college arts diplomas and professional artist certificates as well as bachelor's and master's degrees. Prospective students must audition or interview for admission and study with resident master teachers who remain active professionals.

Tags: North Carolina, about year, schools available, these schools, through 2016

Be The Best Homemaker

Being the best homemaker requires a lot of work and effort.

Being a homemaker is a very important job. Without homemakers, households would not run smoothly. Homemakers cook, clean, go shopping and tend to the family's needs. They are naturally society's nurturers. Some people may think homemakers sit around all day watching TV and eating bonbons. But they can't -- there's simply too much to do.

Instructions

1. Learn cook. There is an old saying that the way to a man's heart is through his stomach. Ask older women for some of their best recipes to share with you and practice making the dishes. Cooking is a learned craft that is only perfected through practice. You also can experiment with your own recipes. Feel free to use spices and different flavors to make delicious, satisfying meals. Food is indeed the spice of life.

2. Clean your house every day. Do a little bit at a time so you do not feel overwhelmed. This is especially true if you have a large home. It is helpful to keep a schedule of what areas will be cleaned on specific days so there is not too much work to accomplish at one time. Also, schedule tasks such as laundry and outdoor cleaning so these tasks do not overwhelm you and you won't have time to do the indoor cleaning. Special cleaning projects such as spring cleaning also should be carefully scheduled so you do not get tired right away.

3. Host plenty of get-togethers. Neighborhood parties are a lot of fun and are a great way to show off your homemaking skills. Outdoor barbecues and pool parties are ideal for neighbors to gather at your place and marvel at your abilities. Be sure to have plenty of delicious food available and mixed drinks for your guests to sample.

4. Volunteer with different community groups. This will show your neighbors that you can multitask with the best of them. You are able to have a beautiful home, host great parties, and cook great food while also volunteering your time. This is the sign of a great homemaker.

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Store Chicken Breasts

Store chicken properly for safest available food.

Buying chicken in bulk is convenient when you know store it. Chicken breasts freeze well and will keep for a long time so you can have some on hand for when you need them. Never waste food; store precooked chicken breasts for a few days or months depending on when they will be eaten. Pre-cut cubes for their convenient addition to soups and stews. Proper storage is an important element to chicken handling. Bacteria can grow on the meat if it's not stored properly. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Store raw chicken breasts in the refrigerator. The low temperature of the refrigerator will keep bacteria from growing on raw chicken. According to Still Tasty, The Ultimate Shelf Life Guide, the meat must be eaten within two to three days of purchase if kept in the fridge. Store raw chicken breasts on the lowest shelves or in a bottom drawer. This will reduce the chances of juices from the raw meats leaking onto vegetables that aren't cooked before eating. Don't open the package before you're ready to use the meat; otherwise store in airtight container. According to Bon Appetite, the coldest part of the fridge is another appropriate place to store chicken in the refrigerator. This area is located in the bottom two shelves and should be between 32 and 41 degrees Fahrenheit, according to the UK Food Standards Agency.

2. Freeze chicken breasts for long-term storage. When in a freezer, chicken breasts will stay good for nine months, according to Still Tasty. The meat must be frozen within two to three days of purchase, before it expires in the refrigerator. Seal in an airtight container such as a plastic container, tin foil or freezer bag. Cooked chicken cubes from the freezer are convenient to throw into stews and soups.

3. Keep cooked chicken breast in the refrigerator for up to four days. Make sure it is in an airtight container or wrapped in either plastic or foil. Whole chicken breast stores better when cooked because it loses less moisture. When cut into pieces, cooked chicken will keep well in the fridge. Allow the cooked meat to cool almost to room temperature before putting it in the fridge.

Tags: chicken breasts, airtight container, will keep, chicken breast, cooked chicken, days purchase

Make Your Own Apple Juice

Make your brand of apple juice at home.

The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources explains the difference between apple juice and apple cider. When you make apple juice, you filter and pasteurize the liquid left after you press the apples. Pasteurization gives apple juice a longer shelf life than that of unpasteurized apple cider. At home, use a process similar to canning to make apple juice: sterilize and seal your jars of apple juice to give it a shelf life of 18 months to two years. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Buy or pick 1 quart of a bushel of sweet apples to make 1 gallon of apple juice. Choose a sweet variety to avoid adding sugar to your homemade juice. A bushel is 42 to 48 pounds of apples.

2. Put the lids of the jars you'll use to store apple juice in hot water for five minutes. Keep the water below the boiling point. Lift them out with magnetic lid lifters.

3. Wash with soapy water the canning jars you'll use to store apple juice.

4. Sterilize the jars you'll use to store apple juice. Put them in your dishwasher if it has a "sterilize" setting. Otherwise, boil your jars for 10 minutes. Leave them in hot water so they won't break when you fill them with hot apple juice. Lift them out with jar-lifting tongs or pour the water out and use hot pads, touching only the outside of the jars.

5. Wash and cut your apples, but leave the skin on. Either discard their core now or after filtration in step 9.

6. Put the apple slices in a large pan and fill it with water. If you normally drink filtered water, use the same type in this step.

7. Cover the pan and put it on a stove burner on high. When the water comes to a rapid boil, reduce the temperature to medium high. Cook the apples until they're mushy.

8. Line a metal colander with several sheets of cheesecloth and place it over a large heat-safe container.

9. Filter your apple juice by pouring it into the colander and letting the juice run through. According to PickYourOwn.org, this process might take one hour. Keep the juice and discard what's left in the colander.

10. Move the filtered apple juice to a pan and heat it to a low simmer.

11. Pour the hot juice in your glass jars, leaving ¼ inch of space between the liquid and the rim. This process will be easier if you use a funnel. A soup ladle works, too, but it takes longer and might be a bit messy. Put the lids on and tighten them.

12. Put the juice jars in a pan or canner and fill it with about 2 inches of boiling water. Cover the pan.

13. Boil the juice jars for 5 to 15 minutes, depending on your altitude and the size of the jars. (See Tips.)

14. Remove the jars from the boiling water and put them where no one will disturb them until they're cool. That might take eight to 12 hours. After they cool, the jars can go in the refrigerator, but it's not necessary.

Tags: apple juice, jars store, jars store apple, store apple, store apple juice, them with, apple cider

About Ayurveda

Ayurveda is an ancient natural healing system. The theory and practice originated in the Vedic traditions of India, from sacred Hindu writings composed in Sanskrit over 5000 years ago. Ayurveda means "knowledge of life," or "science of life," and its focus is on achieving continuous health through maintaining balance. It is a holistic system which integrates mind, body and spirit.

Techniques

Ayurvedic methods include meditation, yoga, massage, herbal medicine and diet. In addition, a purification program called panchakarma helps cells release toxins and then flushes these toxins out through the elimination systems. Ayurveda recommends maintaining regular eating and sleeping routines.

Doshas

In Ayurveda, there are three basic tendencies, called doshas, which must stay in balance for optimal health. The doshas are vata, pitta and kapha. When a dosha becomes too strong or weak, digestion is impaired, and this creates toxins called ama, a residue which accumulates and clogs the cells. Imbalance can result from various factors including mental and emotional stresses, environmental concerns, and dietary issues.

Types

Each person has all three doshas in the physiology, but in different amounts. The prevalence of each dosha determines the person's body type and general personality characteristics, along with the most likely health and mental issues. Vatas generally have more problems with short attention span, indigestion and constipation, insomnia, excessive worrying and anxiety, and joint pain. Pittas can be hostile at work and in their relationships, and have a tendency toward ulcers, liver problems, skin conditions, and high blood pressure. Kapha types can be sluggish, with frequent colds and sinus troubles, a propensity for diabetes and a tendency to become overweight.

Nutrition

Ayurveda recommends eating mostly plant foods with prana, or life-force. These are whole, fresh, organic, alkaline and sun-ripened foods. Certain spices are excellent for health, including coriander, fennel, cumin, turmeric, rosemary and ginger. Sesame oil is recommended for reducing toxins and generating healthy tissues, as well as supplying essential fatty acids. People should avoid processed foods and additives, refined flour and sugar, hydrogenated fats, microwaved food and low-quality meat.

Conventional Medicine

Ayurveda has gained increasing attention in the Western world due to growing interest in alternative medicine and disease-preventive methods. Still, it is rare for physicians specializing in conventional, or allopathic, medicine to include a specialty of Ayurvedic medicine. The National Institute of Ayurvedic Medicine was founded by a medical doctor who also has a Ph.D. in Ayurveda (see Resources), and Ayurveda is vigorously advocated by popular author Deepak Chopra, a medical doctor who created The Chopra Center for Wellbeing.

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Ways To Use Almond Bark

Almond bark, unlike what the name suggests, does not have any almonds, nor is it bark. It's used as a substitute for chocolate coating on candy, where vegetable fat is used instead of cocoa butter. Other ingredients include sugar, partially hydrogenated vegetable oil, whey (milk), soy lecithin, artificial color and artificial flavor. Almond bark is for the most part used for dipping and coating. Some recipes are also available to make candy treats by mixing dried fruit and/or nuts in the almond bark. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Dipping

Fruits, pretzels and potato chips are some of the most popular recipes with almond bark for dipping.

After breaking the store-bought almond bark into smaller pieces so that it is easier to melt, microwave it in a microwavable bowl for about three to four minutes. With a fondue fork to guide your treat of choice in the almond bark, dip and ensure the treat is entirely covered in the melted bark. Then, before setting the almond bark to dry on wax paper, dress your treat with sprinkles or dribble some chocolate on it. Set the treat to dry for about 30 minutes before indulging.

Almond Bark Candy

Melt the almond bark the same as you would for dipping, and add dried fruit, nuts, chocolate or cinnamon and mix vigorously until everything is blended in. One popular recipe for almond bark candy is apricot and almonds. Simply add dried apricots, almonds, and chocolate chips in the melted almond bark. The almond bark in this recipe is used more as a sticking agent for the apricots and almonds than for the actual taste of the bark so pack in enough fruit, nuts and/or chocolate to overwhelm the melted bark. Finally, place the candy mixture in a rectangular container so that once melted, you can cut the pieces into square, hand-held size candy pieces. Keep in mind that the deeper the depth of the container will determine how long it will take the bark to dry. It should not take any more than 30 minutes.

Sticking Agent

Since melted almond bark is very sticky and is easily melted and quick to dry, it be used as a sticking agent for more sturdy ginger bread people or houses for the holidays, or even to stick hard materials onto a cookie such as almonds or M&M's candy. Once the almond bark is melted, take a toothpick or knife to spread the almond bark on the treat of your choice. Then stick your candy together with it.

Tags: almond bark, almond bark, fruit nuts, almond bark, almond bark this, apricots almonds, bark this

Make A Simple Compost Pit

A compost pit uses kitchen waste to create rich fertilizer.

Composting is an easy and effective way to turn kitchen waste into something of value for your garden. Composted materials can save you money on expensive plant feed and have your garden looking its best by providing extra nutrients to the soil. Making a compost pit is not complicated, if you know go about the task. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Find a piece of ground in your backyard that gets sunlight for part of the day. The amount of kitchen scraps you plan to compost, as well as the frequency you intend to compost, will dictate how much space you will need. Two feet by two feet or three feet by three feet will suit most people.

2. Use a shovel to dig a hole measuring the previously mentioned dimensions. The hole should be six to 12 inches deep.

3. Start your compost pit by placing clippings from your garden, vegetable and fruit scraps, and other organic materials from your kitchen in the center of your freshly dug pit. Used coffee grounds, peanut shells and even sawdust can go in your compost pit. Add shredded cardboard or newspaper to the mix as well.

4. Leave the pit alone for about two weeks. At that point, use your shovel to turn the contents of the pit over loosely. Add a shovel full of the soil you originally dug up to make the pit. Make sure not to pack the soil in, as you want air to be able to reach the middle of your pit.

5. Once it’s fully decomposed, so that you can’t distinguish the individual pieces of waste that originally went into it, the compost is ready to use as fertilizer. The time it takes for the compost to become usable fertilizer depends on various conditions, such as the type and quality of your soil and the weather conditions where you live. However, you can expect to have ready-to-use compost in about eight to 10 weeks.

Tags: your garden, feet three, feet three feet, from your, kitchen waste, three feet, your compost

Alternatives To Lecithin

Lecithin is used in many foods to stabilize the ingredients.

Lecithin is used in many commercially-produced foods to thicken or stabilize the ingredients. It can be derived from animal sources, such as eggs or plant sources. One of the most common types of lecithin is soy lecithin. If you are allergic to soy, or if you just don't want lecithin in your diet, here are some alternatives that you can use at home. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Cocoa Butter

If your recipe calls for lecithin as a thickener, you can use cocoa butter instead. In breads, you can substitute cocoa butter measure for measure. Cocoa butter contains more fat than lecithin and is more expensive, but if you wish to use it, you can obtain it at most grocery and health food stores. If you are concerned about the taste of the cocoa butter, you can use deodorized cocoa butter to preserve the original taste of your recipe.

Egg Yolk

Egg yolk is an easy-to-find lecithin substitute that is a very effective emulsifier, or binder. Substitute one large egg yolk for every tablespoon of lecithin powder. One disadvantage to using egg yolk is that egg yolks have a much higher fat content than lecithin. If fat content is a problem, look for an egg replacer powder at your local health foods store. Follow the instructions on the box to determine the proper measurements.

PGPR

PGPR, or polyglycerol polyricinoleate, is a castor oil-derived emulsifier that is used as a substitute for lecithin in chocolate and confections. It allows chocolate manufacturers to use smaller amounts of fat in its recipes. PGPR has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration since 2006, and multiple studies have proven it to be not harmful. However, it is not as healthy as cocoa butter, which it is usually used to replace.

Sunflower Lecithin

If you are allergic to soy, or if you are averse to genetically engineered soy, you can use sunflower lecithin in your cooking. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved it in 2009 as safe to eat. Sunflower lecithin is extracted using a cold-press process without harsh chemical solvents, making it the only raw type of lecithin.

Tags: cocoa butter, Drug Administration, Food Drug, Food Drug Administration, Lecithin used

Start A Commercial Organic Baby Vegetable Greenhouse

You need patience and skill to run a vegetable greenhouse business.

Organic greenhouse vegetable production is practiced by organic farmers and market gardeners. However, in order to have your own baby vegetable greenhouse, there are some factors you must consider. It's important to have start-up capital. And you need to have a good base of horticulture knowledge as well. This is identify the soil and exploit the land. Also, maintaining a good rapport with customers and providers is another useful skill. Starting a greenhouse business is not an easy task. But it can be done with effort and patience.

Instructions

1. Identify your market segment. Decide which vegetables you will grow inside your organic vegetable greenhouse. The most common vegetables are tomatoes, cucumbers, sweet peppers and/or lettuce. However, you can choose other vegetables. This depends on your region and soil.

2. Create a business plan according to your market segment. In the business plan, include your business objectives and goals, as well as the actions you will perform to achieve these goals.

3. Establish your business in a place where potential customers of organic vegetables might pass by frequently. Moreover, an appropriate location must have a good soil fertility and drainage.

4. Gather enough start-up capital to buy the required equipment. A commercial greenhouse with heating system, supply of fresh water and ventilation systems will cost between $10,000 to $30,000 to equip and install. Hire someone with wide knowledge on greenhouse equipment installment to arrange your new equipment for you.

5. Buy the appropriate seeds. Depending on the plantation method, plant the seeds 12 inches below ground or put them inside soil-filled bags. Give the seeds enough light exposure for them to grow. Irrigate your plantations with a hose connected to the water supply.

6. Become a certified organic farmer. Find an organic certification agency. These are mostly managed by your state's Department of Agriculture, or they can be private entities as well. Send a copy of your business plan with information about your location, the operations you perform and the organic vegetables you grow. Once your application is completed, an organic inspector will be assigned to inspect the areas of your organic vegetable greenhouse. If you pass the inspection, you can be granted the certification.

Tags: business plan, vegetable greenhouse, your business, greenhouse business, have good, market segment

Make Great Homemade Thanksgiving Stuffing

Take the stress out of holiday meals with this easy to make stuffing recipe.

Thanksgiving stuffing, or dressing, is a much debated component of the holiday meal. Stuffing recipes range from simple to gourmet and everywhere in between. This simple recipe is sure to be an instant family favorite. Made with easy to find ingredients this stuffing brings the taste of autumn to your table. Whether you prefer to make stuffing in a pan or by stuffing a turkey, this recipe fits the bill. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Place the toasted bread cubes, celery and onion in a large mixing bowl and drizzle the melted butter over them evenly.

3. Sprinkle the salt, pepper and poultry seasoning over the bread mix. Stir the mix together slowly adding chicken broth until the mixture is very wet, about the consistency of pudding.

4. Transfer the stuffing mixture into the greased baking pan and cover tightly with foil. Place on the center rack of the oven and bake for 40 minutes.

5. Remove the foil from the pan and bake an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the top is nicely browned and the center is no longer soft.

6. Remove from oven and let the stuffing sit for about 10 minutes before lightly fluffing it up with a large fork. The stuffing can be served directly from the baking pan or placed in a serving dish..

Tags: make stuffing

Nutfree Restaurants In New York City

Nut allergies can be fatal.

According to studies completed by the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 1.1 percent of the American population has an allergy to nuts or products containing nut derivatives. When dining out at an establishment that is not familiar with your allergy, you risk cross contamination as well as misinformation from the staff regarding your food. Several restaurants in the New York City area have taken the appropriate steps to offer guests a menu that is catered to your dietary needs.

Blue Smoke

New York City has some nut-fee restaurants.

The authentic barbecue pit and saucy ribs are just a few of the reasons people are flocking to Blue Smoke. The restaurant features Memphis baby back ribs and sliced Texas beef brisket as part of their nut-free lunch and dinner menu. Diners will enjoy meals prepared by knowledgeable kitchen staff that take special precautions in preparing their food; such as using different knives and changing their gloves. After the main course, guests can enjoy warm apple crisp and chocolate layer cake from the dessert menu, which is also nut- free. The "New York Post" has hailed Blue Smoke as one of the city's best rib joints, and "Wine & Spirits Magazine" ranked it as one of the magazine's destination restaurants in June 2008.

Blue Smoke

116 E 27th Street

New York, NY 10016

212-447- 7733

bluesmoke.com

Uno Chicago Grill

Uno is not just known for Chicago-style pizza.

Known for its Chicago-style pizza, Uno Chicago Grill has recently been hailed one of the healthiest chain restaurants by "Health Magazine" and MSNBC. The establishment offers appetizers such as shrimp and crab Fun-Doo and The Chi-Town Tasting Plate for those with nut allergies to enjoy. Lunch and dinner options include chicken milanese and lemon basil salmon. The full bar offers daily drink specials and happy hour as well as signature drinks such as the Iguana Margarita and the Windy City Hurricane.

Uno Chicago Grill

432 Columbus Ave

New York, NY10024

212-595- 4700

unos.com

Outback Steakhouse

Outback caters to its patrons.

A nut-free dining experience awaits at the Australian-themed Outback Steakhouse. Ranked by Zagat in 2009 as the No. 1 Best Steak, Outback offers a vast menu to meet food allergy needs. The knowledgeable staff and special menus help provide those with nut allergies hassle-free dining. Guests can start their meal with coconut shrimp or Kookaburra Wings and then move onto one of the house salads with signature homemade dressings. The restaurant makes everything from scratch each day. For this reason, Outback Steakhouse allows guests to call at least 24 hours in advance and request an item free of nuts such as the Chocolate Thunder from Down Under brownie sundae. The establishment will then prepare a special order for the guest. Signature entree options include the Alice Springs Chicken and No Rules Parmesan Pasta as well as a variety of steaks. The full-service bar features specialty drinks such as the Wallaby Darn and Aussie Sky.

Outback Steakhouse

60 West 23rd Street

New York, NY 10010

212-989- 3122

outback.com

Tags: Blue Smoke, Outback Steakhouse, Chicago Grill, York City, Chicago-style pizza, drinks such

Grow Mushrooms With Brown Rice Flour

Growing mushrooms at home is not as difficult as you may think.

Mushrooms grow on rotting material. The spores of the mushroom plant spread and feed on the rotting material. In nature, the mushroom is usually supported by rotting leaves or a dead stump of wood. At home, a sterile growing medium can be created using a brown rice flour mixture. Using brown rice flour means you do not have to pressure cook the inoculation jars, saving you time, effort, money and more than a few headaches when growing your mushrooms. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Pour 1 cup vermiculite into a bowl. Add water until the vermiculite is moist.

2. Pour 1 cup brown rice flour into the vermiculite. Mix the vermiculite and brown rice flour together until it is fluffy.

3. Scoop the vermiculite brown rice flour mixture into your jars. Fill the jars to within 1/4 inch from the top. Cover the mixture with dry vermiculite. Keep moisture away from the lip of the jar by wiping it away with a clean cloth.

4. Place extra jar tops at the bottom of a cooking pot. Add water until it hits right below the top of the jar tops. The water should not touch the jars when they are placed on top of the jar tops at the bottom of the cooker.

5. Punch four holes into the jar lids on top of your jars with a nail. Punch four evenly spaced holes in the top of the lid. Place the lids onto the jars. Cover the holes with micropore tape. Place foil over the lids to protect the tape.

6. Place the jars into the pot and bring the water at the bottom to a boil. Boil for 90 minutes at a low setting to prevent boiling away the water. Allow the jars to cool before removing them.

7. Shake the spore syringe until the spore is broken up on the inside. Heat the tip of the spore syringe under a lighter flame until it glows. Allow the syringe to cool. This sterilizes the tip.

8. Inject 1/5 of the spore syringe into each jar through the holes in the top of the jar, sticking the syringe through the micropore tape. Cover the jar again with foil.

9. Place the jars in an area around 70 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 4 weeks, until the entire jar is colonized with white mycelium.

10. Cover the bottom of a plastic trash can or bin with 3 to 4 inches of vermiculite. Turn the jars out onto the vermiculite and cover the trash can or plastic bin with a plastic bag. Harvest the mushrooms when ready.

Tags: brown rice flour, rice flour, brown rice, spore syringe, brown rice, flour mixture, micropore tape

Do I Need A Cooking License To Open A Restaurant

Many chefs hold no license,

The requirements for opening a restaurant will vary according to location. Different countries, and different regions and cities within those countries, will have their own laws and regulations. As a generalization, however, no cooking license is needed to open a restaurant. In fact, there is nothing to stop a restaurant being run by cooks and staff with no experience at all, so long as they abide by regulations relating to food hygiene and all other applicable laws. The owner of a restaurant does not need to be able to cook or to have any formal qualification in food preparation, nor is he or she obliged to employ a qualified chef.

Cooking Licenses

In most countries, and certainly in the United States, there is no such thing as a "cooking license" strictly speaking-in other words a document which entitles someone to cook in a restaurant serving members of the public. Rightly or wrongly, cooking is not like practicing law or medicine. So long as it is done in such a way that the health of customers is not put at risk, anyone can cook a meal for restaurant service. So long as health regulations are not infringed, a cook in a restaurant does not even need to be basically competent.

Chef Training

Although restaurant cooks do not need to be licensed, many chefs do in fact have professional qualifications. Culinary schools or culinary courses within other educational institutions are common in countries with a restaurant culture. Two of the best known culinary schools in the United States are the Institute of Culinary Education, founded in New York City in 1975, and the Culinary Institute of America, which has campuses in California and Texas as well as New York. These schools, and other similar institutions, offer diplomas in the culinary arts. While many professional chefs have such qualifications, many have no formal training at all.

Other Permits

Although a cooking license is not required to start a restaurant, some jurisdictions require the owner of a restaurant to hold some kind of permit. The permits are unrelated to cooking skills, but usually require that the person supervising food operations in the restaurant be appropriately qualified in food safety. In New York City, for example, the supervisor of food operations, who is usually the chef, must hold a Food Protection Certificate. This confirms that what is important to the regulatory authorities is not that the food is prepared well, but that it is prepared safely.

On the Job Training

Wolfgang Puck learned his trade in restaurant kitchens, not in college.

In the absence of any formal culinary qualification, many--perhaps most--chefs learn cook through practice in the kitchen and by observing more experienced chefs. Some of the world's most famous restaurant chefs held no kind of cooking license, let alone a degree or diploma, when they embarked on their careers. These include Thomas Keller, Wolfgang Puck and Alice Waters.

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Hire Caterers In Culinary Schools

Culinary Schools and Your Catering Needs

Culinary schools are great resources when you find yourself in need of catering services for a party or function. A culinary school offers the chance for you to provide world-class cuisine to your guests, without the expense often associated with established catering companies. It is also an opportunity for the culinary student, should you choose to move in that direction, to expand their resume prior to graduation. Which in turn, helps them secure a permanent position upon graduation. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

Culinary Schools: A Forgotten Resource for Catered Events

1. Determine the type of dishes best suited for your catered event. Many culinary schools specialize in training particular cuisines and courses. For example, some schools teach the preparation of desserts and pastries only, while others offer education solely for different styles of entrees and side dishes. And there are some, particularly the larger facilities, that offer training in both.

2. Search your geographic area for schools that offer education in the type of cuisine you'd like for your event. There are certainly a number of nationally-recognized culinary schools, but do not discount the smaller, localized schools solely based on size.

3. Do your homework, as not all culinary schools are created equal. If the catered event is important enough - work-related, for example - it may be worth taking a tour of the facility and speaking to one or two of the chef instructors.

4. Examine your budget to determine what you can realistically afford. There are usually two options when utilizing culinary schools for catered functions; students near graduation or chef instructors. Hiring a student should be less expensive than securing the services of a chef instructor. If you choose the student option, they are usually supervised by a chef instructor when preparing your dishes. If your catered function warrants it, many chef instructors supplement their income by providing catering and private party services.

5. Contact the careers services department or person who oversees job opportunities for culinary students. This person will be able to provide the particulars regarding pricing, availability and the process for securing the catering services of students, chef instructors, or both.

Tags: chef instructors, catered event, catering services, chef instructor, culinary schools, Culinary Schools

Nutrition & Wellness Jobs

Nutrition and wellness jobs may be for you if you like to help people become healthier or improve their lifestyles.

Nutritionists

Nutritionists plan nutritional programs. In some cases, they supervise meal preparation for individuals or groups. These professionals work to promote healthier eating habits.

Health Educators

Health educators work to provide individuals with healthier lifestyles. For instance, they teach others about prevent illnesses, sexually transmitted diseases and many other wellness topics.

Personal Trainers

Personal trainers help people become healthier through diet and exercise. They work with individuals at their homes, outdoors or in gyms. Trainers advise their clients on what foods they should eat and instruct them on the exercises they need to do to lose weight.

Community Dietitians

Community dietitians develop meal plans, evaluate needs and design programs to prevent illnesses or promote healthy living. Community dietitians are employed by health care agencies or clinics.

Social and Human Service Assistants

Social and human service assistants help individuals or groups receive the help they need and improve the quality of their lives. For instance, assistants may help individuals receive public assistance, arrange transportation and monitor reports for supervisors. Assistants who work with groups organize group activities or offer counseling.

Tags: assistants help, assistants help individuals, become healthier, Community dietitians, help individuals

The Difference Between Paula Deen Cookware & Paula Deen Signature Cookware

Cook like a chef with Paula Deen's cookware sets.

Paula Deen Traditional Porcelain Cookware and Signature Porcelain Cookware sets are very similar. Although they may seem like the same product, subtle differences set them apart. Before you decide which set you'd like to use or purchase, get to know them inside and out. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Material and Features

The Traditional and Signature Cookware sets are both made of aluminum with a nonstick interior. However, the Traditional collection offers copper-plated knobs on the lids while the Signature collection has silver-accented ones. The Traditional collection also offers a straight-sided profile whereas the Signature collection has a rounded profile for design. The Signature collection comes with dual-riveted rubberized handles and can be used in the oven up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. The Traditional collection comes with dual-riveted silicone handles and can be used in the oven up to 400 degrees.

What You Get

One key difference between the two cookware sets is what you get with each. Both come with a 1-quart covered sauce pan, 2-quart covered sauce pan, 6-quart covered stockpot and an 8-inch skillet. The Traditional Cookware set also comes with a 3-quart covered saute pan and a 9.5-inch skillet. The Signature Cookware set comes with a slightly smaller saute pan, 2.75 quarts, but it comes with a larger, 10-inch skillet as well as a slotted turner and slotted spoon.

Colors

Another noticeable difference between the two collections is available colors. The Traditional collection comes in purple, black and oatmeal. The Signature set comes in a larger variety of colors: orange, butter, charcoal, red and robin's egg blue. The Signature collection also features a touch of traditional decoration with a speckled exterior.

Price and Reviews

The Paula Deen Traditional Porcelain Cookware Set and the Signature Porcelain Cookware Set are both $119.95 at PaulaDeenStore.com as of May 2011. However, keep in mind that the Signature set comes with two extra pieces. The website encourages users to review their new sets. As of May 2011, 18 people had reviewed the Traditional set. All 18 said they would recommend the set to others and rated it as a "Good Value." As of the same date, 99 people had reviewed the Signature set. Ninety-five percent indicated they would recommend the product, and 95 percent rated it as a "Good Value."

Tags: comes with, Paula Deen, Porcelain Cookware, Signature collection, Traditional collection

School Projects On Alternative Fuel

Science projects are one way of engaging students and allowing them to demonstrate their knowledge of different aspects of science. Science projects involving alternative fuels are particularly useful, as it is through the testing of alternative fuels that scientists are able to determine the fuels' effectiveness. Students testing out the numerous varieties of alternative fuels may be surprised to discover that conventional fuels like diesel and coal are not spectacularly more effective than alternative sources in producing energy.

Experiment with Biodiesel

The effectiveness of biodiesel as a fuel source can be tested in a straightforward manner simply by burning a sample of the fuel and taking the temperature of the air around it as it heats up. But because the project involves burning things, as well as the potential production of noxious fumes, consider conducting the experiment outside. The student will set up three burners, one with biodiesel, one containing regular diesel and one fueled with kerosene. The student can then take the temperature of the air heated by each burner and analyze the differences. He may also want to analyze the time that this temperature is maintained for.

Banana Biofuel

Younger pupils -- with some assistance -- will be able to demonstrate their knowledge of alternative energy by conducting the banana biofuel experiment. The student will need to collect a supply of banana peels, before drying them and grinding them into pellets. She will then crush the pellets together with fresh banana peel mush to create small banana briquettes ready for burning. To conduct the experiment -- with help from her teacher -- the student will use the banana briquettes to burn in a fire and heat a pan of water. She will then compare the temperature of this pan with that of a pan of water heated using untreated banana peels and one heated using coal.

Jatropha Seed/Cow Dung Biofuel

Herds of cows the world over produce enormous amounts of harmful methane, so why not harness this chemical for use as an energy source? In some Third World countries, cow dung is used as an energy source, as it is readily available and apparently effective. Students can use a school project to determine the efficacy of the substance by making mixtures of jatropha seed cakes and cow dung, mixed together in different ratios and seeing which one produced the most methane gas. This gas can then be burned to test how useful it is as a fuel.

Other Alternative Energy Sources

Apart from biofuels, there are great many renewable energy sources that can be used in a science project. A student could investigate the power of wind and water and how these can be harnessed with devices such as water wheels and wind turbines. Another example of a project could be an examination of the efficacy of solar power in various light conditions and then comparing it to other, nonrenewable, energy sources. As fossil fuels begin to run out, the science of finding effective new energy sources is becoming cutting-edge. Projects like this can examine the benefits of alternative energy sources and help preserve the environment in the future.

Tags: energy sources, alternative fuels, student will, alternative energy, banana briquettes

Preserve Chicken Breasts In Mason Jars

Canning chickens you raise yourself is a good way to store the meat without a freezer.

Canning chicken allows you to take advantage of sales at grocery stores, or store chicken you raise yourself without needing a freezer. Canned chicken works well in casseroles, stews, and other dishes where the chicken is cut up beforehand. When considering the type of chicken to can, a large, roaster will be more flavorful overall than a small fryer. Freshly killed chickens are also better for preserving since their shelf life is longer. The procedure for canning chicken breasts is the same as that for canning all chicken meat. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Chill chicken between six and 12 hours before canning.

2. Cut chicken into pieces that will fit into your canning jars. Remove any fat, bones or other pieces you don't want in the jars.

3. Rinse the chicken well.

4. Bake, steam or boil the chicken until it is almost done through. It will continue cooking in the pressure canner.

5. Wash your jars, rings and lids while the chicken is cooking. Since they will be processed in the pressure canner, you don't have to sterilize them first. However, they should be completely cleaned in very hot water and examined for nicks or cracks.

6. Pack the meat and broth in the canning jars, leaving 1 1/4 inch of space at the top. Add 1 tsp. of salt per quart to the jar.

7. Place the lids on the jars and secure with the rings, but don't over tighten. Wipe the jars clean.

8. Lower the jars into the pressure canner.

9. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for filling it with water. Place the lid on and let it vent. Each pressure canner is different, so it's important to follow the instructions precisely.

10. Let the pressure build inside the canner. Most elevations require the chicken to be cooked at 10 pounds pressure for 90 minutes in quarts and 75 minutes in pints.

11. Remove the jars from the canner after the pressure has dropped naturally and let them cool overnight.

12. Store the jars in a cool, dark place until you are ready to use the chicken.

Tags: pressure canner, canning chicken, canning jars, raise yourself

What Are Galvanic Creams

Galvanic creams are often marketed as anti-aging or anti-wrinkle creams.

Galvanic creams are a type of cosmetic skin care treatment, often referred to or marketed as anti-aging or anti-wrinkle creams. Does this Spark an idea?

Types

Galvanic cream is actually a rarely-used term for a type of anti-wrinkle cream. More common are galvanic facial gels that various retailers suggest you use in concert a galvanic spa treatments.

Function

Most retailers claim that galvanic gel or cream, when applied to the skin and used in concert with a given proprietary conductor, can extract impurities from the skin by utilizing the galvanic skin response.

Effects

Retailers and many reviewers, including Ultimate-Cosmetics.com, claim that "A Galvanic facial is an excellent way to revitalize the skin and help the active ingredients of skin products to penetrate deep within the skin. You can get a much deep penetration of ingredients with a galvanic facial than you can with manual applications."

Expert Insight

Marsha Gordon, MD, is the vice chairman of dermatology at Mount Sinai School of Medicine and she notes "The bottom line is that if these creams could accomplish the same thing as a medical procedure, they would be drugs and not cosmetics -- and that's what you have to keep in mind when deciding whether to try or buy."

Identification

Galvanic creams and gels are typically part of a large galvanic skin treatment system. Galvanic skin treatment is falls under a superseding medical treatment category known as iontophoresis. These types of treatments have been in use for over 70 years.

Tags: Galvanic creams, anti-aging anti-wrinkle, anti-aging anti-wrinkle creams, anti-wrinkle creams, claim that, galvanic facial, galvanic skin

Use Chia Seeds

Add chia seeds to baked goods for extra nutrients.

Chia seeds contain high levels of essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Once eaten by the Aztecs and Mayans, these black and white seeds are versatile, fitting into a number of different food dishes and drinks. According to healthy living website Your Natural Wellness, just 2 tbsp. of chia seeds pack 30 percent more antioxidants than blueberries and contain more calcium than a glass of milk. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Add chia seeds to drinks. You can add chia seeds to water, juice or any other hot or cold beverage of your choosing, where they won't drastically alter the taste of the drink. Leave them for about two minutes before drinking so they absorb some of the liquid.

2. Crush chia seeds. You can sprinkle crushed chia seeds on salads, soups, cereal of juice. Not only will they add omega nutrients to your food but the crushed seeds also have a distinctive nutty flavor.

3. Sprinkle whole seeds onto your food and drink. Chia seeds go well with most foods, including fish, stew, vegetables and yogurt. When the seeds are whole, they have a neutral flavor so you can use them with both sweet and savory food.

4. Place the seeds in water or another beverage for at least 10 minutes. They will absorb a large amount of the liquid and turn into a gel-like substance. Add 1/3 cup of whole seeds to 2 cups of water or juice. Once you have the gel, you can eat it on its own, add it to stews or soups as a thickener, or mix it with an equal amount of jelly for a healthy dessert.

5. Add crushed seeds to your baked goods for extra nutrients. Chia seeds go well in cakes, biscuits, muffins or bread. Use them in baked foods as part of a wheat-free, gluten-free or grain-free diet and, as they are seeds, you can also add them to vegan goods, too.

Tags: chia seeds, baked goods, baked goods extra, Chia seeds, chia seeds, Chia seeds well

Oaxacan Culture

Oaxaca has a long, rich history

Oaxaca is a Mexican state in the southern region of the country with a capital city of the same name. It features a warm climate, diverse landscape and notable location near Central and South America. It also features a rich history, merging many different backgrounds and ethnicities to make it the unique area it is today.

Name

The name Oaxaca came about because of a tree, according to the About Oaxaca website. When the Aztecs ruled the area, they named it "Huaxyacac," which means "the place of the huaje trees." The Spanish took over ruling the area in 1521, although they had a hard time with the name. Thus Huaxyacac eventually evolved to Oaxaca, with the pronunciation of "oh-WAH-ca," switching the x sound from the Aztec "sh" to the Spanish "j."

History

The history of this Mexican state reaches back at least 7,000 years, with its original inhabitants consisting of more than a dozen different groups, according to the About Oaxaca website. Diversity reigned for centuries, although three groups became the most dominant: the Zapotecs, the Mixe and the Mixtecs. Once the 1400s and early 1500s hit, the Aztecs reigned supreme until Spanish forces came in 1521. By the following year, the Spanish officially named their settlement a royal city and soon mapped out the city and distributed its land. Oaxaca's first mayor, Don Juan Pelaez de Berrio, meted out sections of the city to Spanish families and existing inhabitants who were Spanish allies.

Current State

Oaxaca, which became a free state in 1823, remains a well-populated and popular place, especially for tourists, according to the About Oaxaca and Destination 360 websites. The Mexican state has a population of about four million, with 500,000 of them living in the capital city, also called Oaxaca. Oaxacan markets remain a huge tradition and tourist draw, selling everything from crafts to chocolate, bread to baskets, blankets to clothing and beans. Other notable attractions include the beaches, mountains, churches, parks and archeological ruins. Its town square, known as the Zocalo, is the vibrant heart of the city filled with shops, food, festivals and other events.

Food

Spices, spices and more spices dominate Oaxaca food. The most popular dining destinations, according to the Destination 360 website, are not restaurants but rather food stands and roadside cafes. Some of the most popular foods are quesadillas, tamales, tortillas, empanadas, picadas, tostadas and gorditas, all made from the Oaxacan staples of corn and meat, says the About Oaxaca website. The best known Oaxacan food item is its mole, an intricate sauce that boasts more than 30 different ingredients. One of the most unique dishes, the About Oaxaca website says, is Oaxaca's chapulines colorados, which are little grasshoppers.

Festivals

Oaxaca culture is huge on festivals, with some elaborate annual celebrations. Food, perhaps not surprisingly, is celebrated with the Food of the Gods Festival in October. Day of the Dead, honoring the dearly departed, is a huge celebration where Oaxacans say dead spirits come back to visit in early November. Summer brings the Guelaguetza folklore festival, also known as Las Fiestas del Lunes del Cerro, or Mondays of the Hill. Members from each of the seven traditional religions dance, sing, play music and swirl in native costume for a week-long celebration in July. December features la Candelarias, where folks dress up their baby Jesus statues; the Virgin of Solitude celebration; and the Night of the Radishes, where people show off their homegrown radishes. The Night of the Radishes is followed by a day of parades.

Tags: About Oaxaca, About Oaxaca website, Oaxaca website, according About, according About Oaxaca, Mexican state

Hunt And Cook Turkey

Hunting wild turkey is a popular sport.

Hunting turkeys in the wild is a popular sport. Although turkey hunting can be undertaken with muzzle-loading shotguns and even bows and arrows, shotgun hunting is most common. Wild turkey, properly prepared, makes a great dinner-and not only at Thanksgiving. Although cooking a turkey should be within the capabilities of any competent home cook, turkey hunting is a sport requiring expertise, physical fitness and experience in handling weapons.

Instructions

Hunting

1. Wherever you hunt turkey, a license or permit of some kind if likely to be required. Regulations and hunting seasons vary according to the individual state, but are easily researched by finding the state's wildlife and environment website.

2. Shotguns are widely used in turkey hunting.

Properly equip yourself with a semi-automatic or pump-action 12 gauge shotgun and ammunition. Turkey are often best hunted from a blind (a hunter's hideout), and you should decide if you have the skill to build one yourself on location using available vegetation. If not, ready-made blinds can be purchased and assembled for when you find a good spot. You can also use a decoy to attract your targets and you should wear a camouflage jacket or shirt for better concealment.

3. Imitating turkey calls helps to attract the birds. Once a turkey is in range, you can take a shot from your blind. You can also quit the blind and stalk the turkey, taking care to ensure that although it hears your call it does not see you. The aim is to make a one-shot kill.

Cooking

4. Roast turkey is traditional.

The traditional way to cook turkey is to roast the plucked, drawn bird in an oven until crisply golden outside and cooked all the way through, and for this you will need a roasting pan and salt and pepper to thoroughly season the skin. Wild turkeys are generally smaller than farm-raised birds, and roasting time should therefore be shorter-about twenty minutes per pound should be sufficient, starting the oven at 500 F for half an hour, then lowering it to 325 F. It's done when a meat thermometer inserted in the thigh registers 170 F, the juices run clear, and the legs move easily in their sockets.

5. Since wild turkeys are leaner than farm-raised birds, they can also be less tender. An alternative to roasting is preparing turkey stew in a large Dutch oven or deep pan (disposable aluminum is ideal). In France, the turkey's blood was traditionally added, but you can use red wine or a mix of wine and chicken stock. Joint the turkey up and braise it long and slow in the seasoned liquid, adding carrots, onions or other vegetables and herbs for flavor.

6. Wild turkey can also be stewed or braised.

Even if you roast the turkey, you can still cut up the leftovers and make a stew with them. The ready-roast turkey stew takes much less time, and will be ready when the vegetables are done.

Tags: turkey hunting, farm-raised birds, popular sport, than farm-raised, than farm-raised birds