Test Kitchen Tips

Our Test Kitchen is full of culinary experts who have picked up plenty of handy tricks and techniques over the years. Check out our favorite cooking tips that’ll make cooking and baking at home easier than ever.

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    Why You Need a Make-Ahead Roux for Gravy

    Want to make sure the homemade gravy turns out perfectly for your Thanksgiving feast? A restaurant chef shares her secret...


    10 Ways to Make Canned Tomato Soup Taste Homemade

    You can create custom recipes from a simple can of soup! To learn how to make canned tomato soup better...


    5 Red Wine Vinegar Substitutes

    Don't have what you need in the pantry? Find the right red wine vinegar substitute on our list below.


    Heavy Cream vs. Whipping Cream: Which Should You Buy for Your Recipe?

    Confused about which type of cream to buy? Learn about heavy cream vs whipping cream so your recipe turns out...


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    This Is the Safest Temperature for Your Fridge

    Keep your food fresh longer—and help prevent foodborne illness—by finding the ideal refrigerator temperature.


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    11 Slow-Cooker Tips Every Home Cook Needs to Know

    Don't settle for bland, mushy food. These expert Crockpot tips and tricks will ensure your dinner turns out tasty and...


    This Is the Difference Between a Baking Dish and Baking Pan

    Whipping up a cake? Dishing up a casserole? There's a perfect baking dish or pan for each recipe.


    Why Does Chocolate Bloom Make Candy Bars Look Dusty?

    It often happens when chocolate is left in a hot place.

    Brown vs. White Eggs: Here Are the Differences

    Think you could tell the difference between a brown egg and a white egg if you haven't seen the shells?


    What to Do About the Rusty Spots on Your Lettuce

    Have you discovered rusty lettuce in the crisper drawer? You won't need to throw away that whole head of romaine.


    What Are Tomatillos and How to Use Them

    A tomatillo may look like an unripe red tomato, but they have an identity of their own. They're often found...


    This Is What Causes Brown Spots on Your Avocados

    Yes, 'cados seem to go from underripe to overripe in seconds. But what are the brown spots in avocado flesh?...


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    How to Cut a Watermelon into Slices, Cubes or Sticks

    Follow our step-by-step guide to learn how to cut a watermelon. You'll have neat slices, melon balls, cubes and sticks...


    How to Grill Brats Like a Pro from Wisconsin

    Let us show you how to grill brats the right way so they're juicy on the inside and snappy on...


    Pancetta vs Bacon: What’s the Difference?

    Is there a difference between pancetta vs bacon? We'll help you know when you can substitute one for the other.


    If You See White Stuff on Your Baby Carrots, This Is What It Is

    Notice something white and slimy on your carrots? Here's what it is, and why you really shouldn't be worried about...


    How to Reheat Fried Chicken

    We’ll show you how to reheat fried chicken so it’s just as crispy and crunchy as day one.


    9 Secrets for Keeping Cold Food Fresh All Day Long

    Keeping your potluck salads, sides and fresh vegetables cold during a picnic can be tricky. Here's how to keep even...


    The Best Oils for Frying, According to a Chef

    There are several factors to consider when deciding on the best oil for frying, but the answer is quite simple.


    Our Test Kitchen’s Tips for Making Professional-Quality Ice Cream at Home

    Need the perfect summertime treat? Learn how to make professional ice cream right at home. Our Test Kitchen team has...


    How to Wash Berries for Best Results

    Learn how to wash berries, from blackberries to raspberries, to enjoy them to the fullest.


    11 Secret Tricks Grandma Never Skipped When Making Frosting

    Want fluffy frosting for a homemade cake? Try Grandma's timeless techniques that've been passed down generations.

    How Long Do Condiments Last? A Definitive Guide

    Wondering if your condiments really expire? Use this guide on how long condiments last to decide what can stay and...


    The One Thing You’re NOT Doing with Your Paper Towels (But Should Be)

    Paper towels belong in your refrigerator. Surprised? Hear us out!


    8 Tips for Making Pudding from Grandma’s Kitchen

    Making pudding from scratch? Don't skip these old-school tips that'll make it taste even better.


    How to Clean Fruits and Vegetables to Rid Them of Pesticides

    Cleaning the "Dirty Dozen" (aka the 12 fruits and vegetables most likely to be covered in pesticide residue) is no...


    12 Major Grilling Safety Mistakes You Might Be Making

    Keep our grilling safety tips in mind for a safe (and delicious) backyard barbecue.


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    This Is How to Shred Cheese So Nothing Sticks to the Box Grater

    Say goodbye to cheese that sticks to the grater!