cooking tips

Digital thermometer checking the center of a baked pumpkin pie

How To Tell If Pumpkin Pie Is Done

June 7, 2026June 7, 2026ting

Pumpkin pie is done when the edges are set, the center gently jiggles, and a thermometer near the center reads about 175°F to 180°F.

Small unlabeled bottles of vinegar alternatives with a vinaigrette bowl

Sherry Vinegar Substitute: Best Swaps and Ratios

May 30, 2026June 11, 2026ting

Red wine vinegar is the best all purpose substitute for sherry vinegar, but the right swap depends on whether you are making dressing, sauce, marinade, or soup.

White rice being rinsed in cloudy water with a fine mesh sieve, rice paddle, and measuring cup nearby

How to Polish Rice

May 13, 2026June 13, 2026ting1 Comment

True rice polishing removes bran and germ in a mill. At home, you can rinse and gently rub rice to remove surface starch, but you cannot turn brown rice into polished white rice with…

Cast iron skillet, stainless steel skillet, saute pan, vegetables, eggs, and wooden spoon on a kitchen counter

What Is a Skillet?

May 8, 2026June 13, 2026ting

A skillet is a shallow pan with a flat bottom, long handle, and sloped sides. It is used for searing, browning, frying, sauteing, and quick stovetop cooking.

Whole cucumber and whole zucchini with sliced rounds on a wooden cutting board near a kitchen window

Cucumber vs Zucchini

May 4, 2026June 13, 2026ting

Cucumbers are crisp, watery, and usually eaten raw. Zucchini is a tender summer squash with a mild flavor that is usually cooked but can also be eaten raw.

Measuring cup of dry white rice with bowls of cooked rice, a saucepan, and a wooden spoon on a kitchen counter

How Many Cups of Rice Per Person?

April 28, 2026June 13, 2026ting

Plan about 1/4 cup dry rice per person for a side dish and 1/3 to 1/2 cup dry rice per person for bowls or main dishes. Cooked yield varies by rice type.

Fresh thyme and oregano sprigs with dried herbs, garlic, lemon zest, and roasted vegetables on a kitchen board

Thyme vs Oregano

April 26, 2026June 14, 2026tingLeave a Comment

Thyme is usually woodsy, subtle, and slightly floral. Oregano is stronger, peppery, and more assertive. They can substitute for each other, but the dish changes.

Pulled pork being reheated in a covered pan with sauce

How To Reheat Pulled Pork Safely Without Drying It Out

April 13, 2026June 10, 2026ting

Reheat pulled pork gently with a splash of broth, sauce, or cooking juices, and make sure leftovers reach 165 degrees F in the center before serving.

Fresh basil leaves on a towel with basil and oil cubes in an ice cube tray and a freezer bag

Can You Freeze Basil?

April 11, 2026June 13, 2026ting

You can freeze basil, but the leaves soften after thawing. Freeze dry whole leaves or basil and oil cubes, then use them in sauces, soups, pesto, and cooked dishes.

Tomato sauce simmering in a saucepan with a wooden spoon, tomato paste, and a small slurry bowl nearby

How to Thicken Tomato Sauce

March 30, 2026June 13, 2026ting

The best way to thicken tomato sauce is to simmer it uncovered until excess water evaporates. Tomato paste, blending, vegetables, or a small slurry can help when reduction is not enough.