Poaching is used for delicate foods, such as fish fillets. The proper temperature for poaching is 160° to 180°, which is lower than simmering.
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1 pound packaged dry beans (uncooked) equals 2 cups dry or 6 to 7 cooked (drained).
1 cup packaged dry beans (uncooked) equals about two 15-1/2-ounce cans of beans (drained).
One…
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Betty G. of Idyllwild, California says, “I live in a small town in the mountains. I keep a packaged brownie mix on hand in case I need a quick dessert. In the higher altitudes, boxed mixes need…
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I’ve found the easiest way to make bread cubes is to first freeze the bread, then trim and cube a stack of frozen slices. Not only is it neater, it’s easier to divide the cubes equally for layered…
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My stovetop used to get really messy while I was canning. Now I cover it with heavy-duty aluminum foil, making holes for the burners. When I’m done canning, I simply remove the foil and save…
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When a recipe calls for chocolate kisses, I use chocolate stars instead. Not only are they less expensive, they’re prettier…and you don’t have to spend time unwrapping them. —Sue B., Tiffin,…
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When a recipe calls for melted semisweet chocolate chips, it’s cheaper to use semisweet baking chocolate squares in the same amount ounce-for-ounce. After the chocolate is melted, nobody knows…
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To make clarified butter, melt butter over low heat without stirring. Skim off foam. Pour off clear liquid and discard milky residue in bottom of pan. Store clear liquid in an airtight container…
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When preparing recipes that call for edible fresh flowers, make sure to properly identify the flowers before picking and use only the petals or blossoms (not the stems, leaves, pistil or stamen).…
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To use cornstarch to thicken foods, dissolve the cornstarch in a small amount of a cold liquid before adding it to the hot mixture. Then, to produce a nicely thickened sauce, gravy or pudding,…
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