Author: Ricardo Davis

Hello! My name is Ricardo Davis and I'm a food blogger. I'm not a professional cook, but that doesn't mean I don't have some good strategies and ideas. There are a lot of simple and practical things on the site about heating, freezing, dehydrating and so on. It was written by chefs, food experts, home cooks, and me.

How long to smoke brisket at 225 for tender, flavorful meat: expert tips

Ricardo Davis

– When smoking brisket at 225 degrees Fahrenheit, the recommended cook time is 1.5-2 hours per pound.
– A 12-pound brisket would take 18-24 hours to smoke, a 15-pound brisket would take 22.5-30 hours, and an 18-pound brisket would take 27-36 hours.
– It is important to monitor the brisket’s internal temperature, and once it reaches 190-200 degrees Fahrenheit, it is ready to be removed from the smoker.
– Brisket comes from the lower chest of a cow and has two sections: the point and the flat.
– The point is thicker and fattier, while the flat is mostly meat and connective tissue.
– Brisket can be sold as a “flat” or “half” brisket, or as a “full-packer” which includes both the point and the flat.
– Brisket should be cooked slowly at a low temperature to prevent drying out and to allow the connective tissue to break down.
– The perfect temperature for smoking brisket may vary depending on personal preference and the smoker being used.
– Rubs and marinades are recommended to enhance flavor.
– The brisket should be trimmed before smoking, including removing hard, inedible fat and unattractive edges.
– There is a debate on whether to cook the brisket top-side down or fat-cap down, but the author believes that cooking fat-cap down is preferable.
– Wrapping the brisket in foil or parchment paper once it reaches 165-170 degrees Fahrenheit can prevent dryness.
– Adding beef broth to the packet can help prevent dryness as well.
– Allowing the brisket to rest for about 20 minutes after removing it from the smoker helps lock in the meat’s juices.
– When carving the brisket, it is recommended to cut against the grain for tenderness.
– Using a thermometer to monitor the internal temperature of the brisket is crucial.
– The drippings from the brisket can be saved and used for making sauce or marinades.
– Good brisket can be chosen by performing the fold test.
– Generally, ¾ of a pound of raw brisket per person is sufficient.

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Jack in the Box Breakfast: A Nutritional Analysis and Quick Tips for a Healthy Start

Ricardo Davis

– Mini Pancakes: 143 calories
– Hash Browns: 187 calories
– Breakfast Jack (with ham): 350 calories
– Breakfast Jack (with bacon): 380 calories
– Bacon, Egg & Cheese Biscuit: 410 calories
– Supreme Croissant: 448 calories
– Sausage Breakfast Jack: 487 calories
– Ultimate Breakfast Sandwich: 520 calories
– Sausage, Egg & Cheese Biscuit: 534 calories
– Jumbo Breakfast Platter (Bacon): 540 calories
– Jumbo Breakfast Platter (Sausage): 621 calories
– Sausage Croissant: 555 calories
– Grilled Breakfast Sandwich: 616 calories
– Extreme Sausage Sandwich: 650 calories
– Loaded Breakfast Sandwich: 707 calories
– Meat Lovers Breakfast Burrito: 790 calories
– Grande Sausage Breakfast Burrito: 1,044 calories
– Homestyle Potatoes: 259 calories
– Orange Cranberry Muffins: 297 calories
– Grilled French Toast Plate (with bacon): 474 calories
– Grilled French Toast Plate (with sausage): 555 calories
– Southwest Scrambler Plate (with bacon): 495 calories
– Southwest Scrambler Plate (with sausage): 576 calories
– Bacon & Egg Chicken Sandwich: 649 calories
– Brunch Burger: 770 calories

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Is Tupperware Microwave Safe for Heating Food?

Ricardo Davis

– Tupperware containers are labeled as microwave-safe and BPA-free
– Avoid overheating or lengthy reheating in the microwave with Tupperware
– Some studies have found that plastics such as BPA and BPS may be harmful to health
– Certain Tupperware containers may be made with polycarbonate plastic, which can release BPA into food when heated
– The use of BPA in Tupperware products in the USA and Canada has been discontinued since 2010
– Tupperware products are not designed for cooking but for food storage
– Look for a microwave-safe symbol at the bottom of the Tupperware container
– Plastic numbers 2 and 5 (HDPE and PP) are microwave-safe, while numbers 1, 3, 6, and 7 should be avoided
– If there is no indication of microwave safety, it is best to avoid using the container in the microwave
– Test if a plastic container is suitable for microwaving by heating a glass of water in the container for one minute
– Invest in glass, ceramic, or specially designed microwave-safe containers for microwaving
– Reheat food in a plastic container with the lid off, using a glass, ceramic plate, or damp paper towel instead of the lid
– Leftovers should not be microwaved more than once, and the food should reach a temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety
– Single-use containers and damaged or old plastic Tupperware should be avoided
– Microwave Tupperware with the lid off to allow steam to escape and prevent pressure buildup
– Glass containers and ceramic dishes are suggested as alternative microwave-safe options to plastic Tupperware
– Stoneware dishes without metallic lining are safe to use in the microwave
– Tupperware with additional decorations should not be microwaved
– Food-grade stainless steel Tupperware made from 304 stainless steel is safe for food storage but not for microwaving
– Plastic containers should not be microwaved to avoid negative health effects
– Heating plastic in the microwave can cause leaching of chemicals into food
– The FDA does not regulate the term “microwave safe”
– Plastics labeled with numbers 2, 4, and 5 are safer for microwaving
– Plastics labeled with numbers 1, 3, 6, or 7 should never go into the microwave
– BPA is an unsafe stabilizer used in plastic manufacturing
– BPA-free containers do not contain this stabilizer
– Tupperware products sold in the US since 2010 are BPA-free

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Is it healthy to eat the shrimp shells? Factchecking the rumors and exploring the nutritional benefits

Ricardo Davis

– Shrimp shells can be a good source of nutrients, including protein, calcium, and minerals.
– Not all shrimp shells are edible, some varieties have shells that are too tough.
– Shrimp shells should be cooked before eating to reduce the risk of food poisoning.
– Shrimp shells can be a choking hazard, so small pieces should be removed before eating.
– Shrimp shells are often used to add flavor and texture to soups and stews.
– Eating shrimp shells can offer several health benefits, as they are a good source of chitin, a fiber that promotes gut health, and contain minerals like calcium and phosphorus, essential for bone health.
– Shrimp shells also contain astaxanthin, an antioxidant that protects against heart disease and certain types of cancer.
– If fresh and properly cleaned, shrimp shells can be eaten carefully.
– Shrimp tails can be eaten and are crunchy and flavorful.
– Shrimp heads can be eaten, but the eyes should be removed before consuming.
– Shrimp shells are made of chitin, a complex polysaccharide molecule.
– Shrimp shells can be ground up and added to smoothies or soups, but there are also other ways to obtain chitin and protein if eating shrimp shells is not appealing.
– Reference: [No specific reference mentioned in the text]

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The Nutritional Difference Between Cucumbers and Zucchini: Explained

Ricardo Davis

– Cucumbers and zucchini can be easily confused due to their similar appearance.
– Both have a low glycemic index and are low in sugars, carbs, and calories.
– Cucumbers have a cold and bumpy exterior, while zucchinis have a dry and rough exterior.
– Cucumbers belong to the gourd family, while zucchinis belong to the Cucurbita family.
– Cucumbers are considered a fruit by many but are not typically used in fruit salads.
– Cucumbers are softer and have a waxy feel when touched, while zucchinis are rough and dry.
– Cucumbers are eaten raw, while zucchinis are usually cooked, but can also be eaten raw or pickled.
– Cucumbers have a fresh, juicy taste, while zucchinis have a heartier flavor and may be slightly bitter.
– When cooked, zucchini holds its shape better than cucumbers.
– Zucchini flowers are edible, while cucumber flowers are not.
– Zucchini is richer in vitamin B and C, potassium, iron, protein, and fiber compared to cucumbers.
– Cucumbers are eaten raw, pickled, in salads, sandwiches, or used to flavor water.
– Zucchinis taste better when baked or stir-fried and can be made into noodle shapes.

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Discover the Best Oil for Popcorn: Health Benefits and Flavors Explained!

Ricardo Davis

List of the best oils for popcorn, without duplication:

1. Coconut Oil: Gives popcorn a sweet undertone and results in crispy and well-popped kernels.

2. Olive Oil: Has a neutral flavor that allows other toppings to become dominant. Contains health-friendly monounsaturated fats and antioxidants.

3. Avocado Oil: Has a high smoke point and a buttery flavor that is suitable for popcorn.

4. Sunflower Oil: Has a high smoke point and is ideal for preserving. Not as healthy as other oils but good for cooking popcorn.

5. Canola Oil: The cheapest option and good for health-conscious individuals. Has a high smoke point but has a distinctive flavor.

6. Grapeseed Oil: Has a high smoke point of 420°F and is recommended for making gourmet popcorn. Has a subtle nutty taste and can be combined with other fats or used for seasoned popcorn.

7. Peanut Oil: Recommended for those who enjoy the taste of peanuts and are not allergic to nuts. Contains vitamin E and helps repair damaged cells.

8. Ghee: Clarified butter with a strong butter flavor and lots of vitamins and Omega fatty acids. Suitable for mixing with other oils and can be pushed further to get a nutty flavor.

Note: The specific brands mentioned in the text, such as Bertolli Olive Oil, Chosen Foods Avocado Oil, Baja Precious Sunflower Oil, and Spectrum Organic Canola Oil, were not included in the list.

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