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 Does Lasagna Last in the Fridge? Top Storage Tips to Maximize Freshness

Ricardo Davis

How long does lasagna last in the fridge?

– Leftover lasagna can last 3 to 5 days in the fridge.
– The article provides tips for reheating lasagna to prevent it from becoming dry.
– The article mentions that reheating a whole lasagna is possible by covering it in foil and using an oven.
– Thawing frozen lasagna in the refrigerator overnight is recommended.
– It can also be reheated without thawing by adding extra cooking time.
– To prevent the lasagna from drying out, the article suggests adding a splash of water and covering it with foil, plastic wrap, or a paper towel.
– The article also provides instructions for reheating lasagna in the microwave using a toothpick to prevent the cover from touching the lasagna.
– The article discusses how to reheat lasagna in an air fryer and provides safety tips for reheating and storing lasagna leftovers.
– It suggests preheating the air fryer to 375º and placing the lasagna in a loaf pan covered with aluminum foil.
– The lasagna should be heated through to an internal temperature of 165°F.
– It is mentioned that lasagna can be reheated multiple times as long as it reaches the proper temperature, although the quality will degrade with each reheat.
– Leftover lasagna can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

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Sachetti: Uncovering the Secrets of this Unique Pasta Shape

Ricardo Davis

– Sacchetti pasta is a type of fresh pasta shaped like a small pouch
– It can be filled with cheese, bacon, chicken, and cheddar cheese
– The author made the classic egg-based pasta for Sacchetti pasta
– It can be served with freshly made tomato sauce, bechamel sauce, and parmesan cheese
– The author recommends serving it with steamed or roasted asparagus, shrimp, and extra cheese
– Preparation time: 40 minutes
– Cooking time: 8 minutes
– Servings: 4
– Ingredients:
– 12 oz flour (or a mix of all-purpose flour and bread flour)
– 4 large eggs
– 1½ tsp salt
– 1½ tbsp olive oil
– For the filling: 1 cup ricotta, ½ cup mascarpone, 1 grated pear, ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, salt and pepper to taste
– For the bechamel sauce: 1 tbsp butter, 1½ tbsp flour, ½ cup half-and-half, ½ cup milk, 3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese, freshly grated nutmeg and salt to taste
– Instructions:
1. Make the pasta by combining flour and salt in a bowl, adding eggs, and stirring until the dough comes together
2. Knead the dough until smooth or use a stand mixer
3. Let the dough rest for at least 30 minutes up to 2 hours
4. Roll out the dough and cut into small pieces, then use a pasta machine or rolling pin to flatten it further.
5. Cut into 5-inch diameter discs.
6. For the filling, combine mascarpone, grated pear, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Place a teaspoon of filling onto each pasta disc and gather the sides to form a pouch. Pinch the dough together.
8. Cook the pasta in boiling salted water for 2 minutes.
9. For the bechamel sauce, melt butter in a saucepot. Add flour and cook for a minute before adding half-and-half and milk. Cook until thickened, then stir in Parmesan cheese.
10. Add the cooked pasta to the warm bechamel sauce and stir gently to coat the pasta.
11. Serve the pasta warm, topped with extra Parmesan cheese.

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The Perfect Pairings: Discover Exquisite Brisket Side Dishes!

Ricardo Davis

– Brisket is a versatile meat that falls apart when cooked and is full of flavor.
– Brisket goes well with many side dishes.
– Some recommended side dishes include Brazilian tomato slaw, sauteed radishes, potato latkes, roasted root vegetables, plant-based tacos, chipotle roasted sweet potatoes, collard greens, apple baked beans, slaw, roasted red potatoes and asparagus, creamy corn casserole, and Southern mac and cheese.
– The article discusses several side dishes that pair well with brisket. The dishes mentioned include buttermilk hush puppies, skillet-braised Brussels sprouts, roasted green beans, loaded baked potato salad, grilled peaches, fried green tomatoes, and creamy broccoli salad.
– The author mentions that brisket is a versatile cut of meat that is tender, flavorful, and pairs well with many different flavors. Some suggested side dishes include Vernell’s slaw, oven-roasted red potatoes and asparagus, and Grandma’s Southern mac and cheese.
– This article discusses various side dish recipes that pair well with brisket. The recipes mentioned include mac and cheese, buttermilk hush puppies, skillet-braised Brussels sprouts, roasted green beans, loaded baked potato salad, grilled peaches, fried green tomatoes, and creamy broccoli salad.
– The article also includes quotes from reviewers who have enjoyed these dishes.

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Freezing Cooked Chicken: Best Practices for Optimal Safety

Ricardo Davis

– It is suggested to freeze cooked chicken in a single bag for convenience and portion control.
– The recommended method for thawing cooked chicken is to place it (in the plastic freezer bag) in the refrigerator overnight.
– As per the USDA, frozen cooked chicken (as well as meat) can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
– It is advised to mark the use-by date on the bag using a freezer-proof marker.
– Raw chicken should be wrapped in heavy-duty aluminum foil or placed in ziplock plastic freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
– Raw chicken can last indefinitely in the freezer if stored properly.
– USDA suggests using whole raw chicken within a year, and cut chicken within nine months.
– Thaw frozen raw chicken in the refrigerator by placing it in a rimmed container or bowl for at least 24 hours.
– Clean surfaces thoroughly with hot soapy water if raw chicken juices drip in the refrigerator.
– Use the cold-water method for same-day defrosting by placing frozen chicken in a leak-proof plastic bag submerged in cold water, replacing the water every 30 minutes.
– Be cautious when using the microwave method to defrost raw chicken as it may create hot spots and uneven thawing.
– Cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two days, after which it’s best to freeze it.
– Shredded chicken defrosts faster than whole pieces, but both can be frozen by placing them in zip-top plastic freezer bags and removing air before sealing.

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Sticky Rice Brands: Discover the Best Authentic Varieties

Ricardo Davis

– Three Rings Thai Sticky Rice
– Burma Spice Sticky Rice
– Three Ladies Brand Sanpatong Sweet Rice
– Golden Phoenix Premium Thai Sticky Rice
– Three Elephants (Thai brand of sweet sticky rice)
– Annie Chun’s (pre-cooked sticky rice)
– McCabe Organic Sweet Rice
– Bibigo (cooked sticky white rice)
– Rom America Sticky Rice
– Hakubai Premium Sweet Rice
– Fresh & Wild Purple Sticky Rice
– RiceSelect sticky rice
– Three Right Thai Sweet Sticky Rice
– Annie Chun sticky rice
– Kokuho Sushi Rice
– Natural Earth Products (organic sushi rice, white sushi rice, sushi quinoa rice)
– Top Tier Foods (sushi quinoa rice)

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The Surprising History and Nutritional Benefits of Seedless Cherries

Ricardo Davis

List of Pertinent Information for ‘seedless cherries’:

– There is currently no known method for growing seedless cherries.
– Cherries are considered stone fruit.
– Scientists have failed to produce completely seedless cherries.
– In 1914, breeder Luther Burbank grew a partially seeded plum, inspiring the search for seedless cherries.
– Consuming cherry pits in large quantities is not recommended due to the presence of cyanide.
– Many fruits, including cherries, are considered stone fruit because they have pits.
– Maraschino cherries have their pits removed during the manufacturing process.
– All cherries are naturally pitted and there are no naturally pitless cherries.
– Attempts to create seedless fruit can alter the size and quality, affecting the commercial value.
– There are various methods to remove pits from cherries, such as using stone pitting machines or manual tools.
– Chewing cherry pits releases amygdalin, which can convert to cyanide in the body.
– It is safest to dispose of cherry pits in the trash rather than consuming them.
– Chewing cherry seeds is more dangerous than swallowing them whole.
– It is best to avoid eating cherry seeds for safety reasons.
– Some recipes may use cherry seeds but suggest cooking them whole and removing the seeds afterwards.
– The article mentions five ways to remove cherry pits, but does not provide specific details.

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Hibachi vs Teriyaki: Unraveling the Signature Flavors

Ricardo Davis

– The difference between hibachi and teriyaki
– Hibachi refers to both the grill type and the Japanese dishes made on it
– Teriyaki refers only to the style of the dish
– Hibachi is a traditional Japanese heater used for burning charcoal or wood
– Hibachi can be a portable or built-in grill in the United States
– Hibachi cooking tips include preheating the grill, using a timer, and checking internal meat temperature
– Hibachi-style dishes consist of thinly sliced meat, seafood, or poultry, vegetables, cooked rice, and soy sauce
– Teriyaki-style dishes use a thin glaze made from soy sauce, sake, mirin, sugar, and optional spices
– Teriyaki involves marinating and grilling meat or fish with the teriyaki sauce for a glossy finish
– Both hibachi and teriyaki dishes are cooked in a similar method, with the key difference being the sauce used

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Tamarind Spice: Exploring the Origins, Health Benefits, and Culinary Uses

Ricardo Davis

– Tamarind powder is a sour spice used in Indian cuisine
– It is made from dried tamarind pods and retains a tangy flavor
– Tamarind powder is used for dressing salads, preparing dips, marinades, and making various foods
– It can be used to add tartness and sour taste to curries, soups, and stews
– Tamarind powder can be used as a replacement for vinegar or lime juice in recipes
– It is often used in masalas (spices) in Indian cuisine
– Tamarind powder can add sweetness to chutneys, pickles, and savory dishes
– It can be added to smoothies and juice cocktails for depth of flavor and natural sweetness
– Tamarind powder is high in fiber and beneficial bacteria, aiding digestion
– It helps to remove toxins and impurities from the body
– Tamarind powder has anti-inflammatory properties, providing a natural remedy for acne and other skin problems
– Tamarind powder can reduce swelling and redness, dry up excess oil, and eliminate blemishes on the skin
– It can relieve stress and anxiety
– Tamarind powder can aid in weight loss and reverse fatty liver disease
– Tamarind can reduce inflammation and ease pain from arthritis and joint pain
– It may help control diabetes by monitoring sugar and insulin levels
– Tamarind powder can improve eyesight and protect the liver against free radical damage
– Tamarind can be incorporated into various recipes to add flavor, act as an acidic ingredient, and preserve food
– Tamarind can be used as a natural sweetener and a flavoring agent
– Tamarind juice can be consumed as a refreshing summer drink and to provide relief from a sore throat
– Tamarind is a spice that originates from East Africa and is now widely grown in the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and the West Indies
– Tamarind is associated with the wedding of the god Krishna in Hindu mythology
– In Victorian times, the British in Goa used tamarind to ward off harassment in the native quarter and were nicknamed “tamarind heads”
– Tamarind is used as a brass and copper polish
– The pulp of tamarind is used for its sweet, sour, fruity aroma and taste
– Tamarind paste or juice is commonly used as a souring agent in lentil dishes, curries, chutneys, and sauces
– Tamarind contains pectin, which is used in the manufacturing process of jams and jellies
– Tamarind is considered to have health benefits, such as being a mild laxative and digestive, treating bronchial disorders, and promoting sexual enjoyment
– The tamarind tree is a tropical evergreen that can reach a height of 20m (70ft)
– It has thick grey bark and pale green oval leaves
– The fruit is brown, curved, brittle, irregular, and bulbous, measuring up to 10cm (4″)
– Tamarind trees thrive in semi-arid tropical regions and are propagated by seed or cuttings
– Tamarind has various names in different languages, including Indian Date, Tamarindo, tamarin, Tamarine, tamarindo, imli, imlee, amyli, asam, mal kham, syambala, pulee, puli, and makahm
– Tamarind can be used in various recipes, such as grilled chicken, noodles (e.g., pad thai), and sautéed shrimp
– There is a photo associated with the article taken by icon0.com from Pexels.

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