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 Soy Sauce Last? Shelflife, Storage Tips, and Safety

Ricardo Davis

– Properly stored soy sauce does not generally go bad and can be consumed even after several years.
– The high sodium content in soy sauce makes it safe to consume even after several years.
– Regular soy sauce can last indefinitely when unopened.
– An opened bottle of soy sauce can retain its quality for up to six months in the kitchen and up to two to three years when refrigerated.
– Shoyu and tamari, Japanese-style soy sauces, can last up to two years when unopened and stored in a cool and dry place.
– Once opened, the peak flavor of shoyu and tamari lasts for about three months.
– Changes in color and flavor over time in soy sauce are not harmful but indicate oxidation.
– Mold development is a sign to discard soy sauce.
– Soy sauce has a best-before date, and if stored properly, it can be used even after that date.
– Floating particles or a foul odor indicate that soy sauce is spoiled.
– Soy sauce can be stored in the refrigerator to retain its flavor longer.
– Adding water or other ingredients to soy sauce can cause it to spoil.
– It is advised to store soy sauce in a cool and dry area, away from heat sources.
– After opening, soy sauce should be stored at room temperature in the original bottle with a tight screw lid.

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The Best Canned Tomato Soup: A Delicious, Nutritious, HomemadeInspired

Ricardo Davis

– The article discusses the best canned tomato soups.
– The soups were tested blindly by 5 people for texture and flavor.
– Amy’s Cream of Tomato Soup was the top choice for creamy soup lovers.
– Campbell’s Condensed Tomato Soup was praised for its nostalgic taste.
– Rao’s Tomato Basil Soup received positive feedback for its homemade taste and chunky texture.
– Maya Kaimal Tomato & Warm Spices was recommended for those who prefer more adventurous flavors.

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Are Gushers Vegan? Exploring the Ingredients and Alternatives

Ricardo Davis

– Fruit Gushers do not contain any animal by-products and are therefore considered vegan.
– Gelatin, derived from the skin and bones of animals, is an ingredient to avoid for vegans. It is commonly found in food products such as yogurts, fruit chews, cakes, and baked goods.
– Carnauba wax, derived from palm tree leaves, is used in fruit chews but is also used to provide shine to cars, floors, and shoes.
– Food coloring yellow 5, blue 1, and red 40 are commonly found in many foods. Blue 1 and red 40 are derived from coal, tar, and petroleum and have been banned in some countries. Yellow 5 is known to cause allergic reactions and hyperactivity in children.
– Glycerine, used as a preservative, can be vegetable-based and suitable for vegans. However, animal-based glycerine made from slaughterhouse fat should be avoided.
– The ingredients in Fruit Gushers include sugar, dried corn syrup, corn syrup, fructose, and grape juice.

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Can You Freeze Gravy? Here’s Everything You Need

Ricardo Davis

– The article discusses whether leftover gravy can be frozen.
– Gravy is made from leftover juices of cooked meat, along with broth, cream/milk, butter, and spices.
– Gravy can be frozen in air-tight containers or freezer bags and will last for up to six months.
– If the gravy contains dairy, it is not recommended to freeze it as the texture will change and it will separate when thawed.
– Gravy can also be refrigerated for up to four days in an airtight container.
– It is important to cool down the gravy within two hours of cooking to prevent bacteria growth.
– If the gravy smells rotten or sour, it should be thrown out.
– Look for signs of mold or any fuzzy or abnormal appearance to determine if the gravy has gone bad.
– Premade gravy dry mix can be stored in a sealed container or plastic bag.
– Gravy is made from the leftover juices of cooked meats, typically turkey or beef, with additional broth, cream or milk, butter, and spices added for flavor.
– Traditional gravy recipes use all-purpose or wheat flours as thickeners, but cornstarch can be used as a gluten-free alternative.
– Dairy-based gravies should not be frozen as they will separate and have a gritty texture when thawed.
– Spoiled gravy can be identified by a rotten or sour smell, mold growth, or abnormal texture.
– Dry gravy mixes can be stored in sealed containers or plastic bags.

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Cook in front of you: The Ultimate Culinary Experience

Ricardo Davis

Teppanyaki and hibachi are both popular Japanese cooking styles that involve grilling over a metal plate. Teppanyaki chefs are trained to perform tricks like flaming an onion volcano. Common foods cooked on teppanyaki include shrimp, beef, chicken, and tofu, with sidings like grilled vegetables, fried rice, and noodles.

Hibachi grills have open grates and are typically made of wood or ceramic lined with metal. Some hibachi chefs also perform tricks like teppanyaki chefs.

The main difference between teppanyaki and hibachi is the characteristics of their cooking plates. Teppanyaki uses a solid, flat iron griddle heated with propane, while hibachi traditionally uses circular grills made of wood or ceramic lined with metal. Hibachi grills can also be smaller and portable compared to teppanyaki griddles.

The Japanese Korean Ceramic Hibachi BBQ Table Grill from Amazon is praised for its ability to deliver searing heat and infuse food with a charcoal flavor. The grill is small, portable, easy to store, and cleaning is not a chore. The hibachi grill is compact, portable, and easy to store, and requires no assembly. It comes with a pair of tongs and a stand. The hibachi pot is ceramic with a stainless steel grill plate, and has a double air vent to control heat.

Hibachi grills have similar cooking times to regular barbecues. They can be used for thin cuts/small cubes and slices of meat, as well as thicker cuts like steak if the size and shape of the meat are suitable. Thicker cuts may require extended cooking time and more frequent turning to prevent burning. Brushing fish with oil can prevent it from sticking to the grill plate.

The hibachi grill is easy to use, portable, and doesn’t require assembly. It takes around 30 minutes to heat the charcoal before placing it in the grill. Binchotan, a Japanese charcoal, is recommended for this type of grilling as it brings out the natural flavor of the food and allows for better heat control. Binchotan can be reused several times. Regular charcoal may produce a stronger smoky flavor and more smoke.

The hibachi grill is easy to clean, with the clay pot requiring no cleaning and the grill plate easily fitting in a sink or dishwasher. The hibachi should be stored indoors or well covered when not in use.

The price of hibachi grills can range from $60 to $800, depending on the size and brand. The article also mentions that a hibachi grill priced at $69 impressed testers, but points out the ongoing cost of buying binchotan charcoal.

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Dumplings vs Potstickers: Unveiling the Delicious World!

Ricardo Davis

– Dumplings come in different shapes and sizes worldwide, including perogies, wontons, samosas, and gnocchi.
– Dumplings are small masses of dough cooked by boiling, steaming, frying, or simmering.
– Potstickers are a popular type of dumplings.
– Potstickers are called so because they stick to the wok when they are cooked and become crispy.
– Potstickers are typically two to three bite dumplings with a thick and soft wrapper that becomes crispy after cooking.
– They can be filled with cabbage and carrots for a vegetarian version or ground pork for a meat version.
– Potstickers are found in Chinese restaurants and the frozen aisle of grocery stores.
– The main difference between potstickers and other dumplings is that potstickers are crispy due to their cooking method.
– Overall, both potstickers and dumplings have dough on the outside and vegetable or meat filling on the inside.

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Sweet Savings: Candy Buffet Ideas on a Budget Your Guide to Affordable and Delicious Treats!

Ricardo Davis

– The article provides tips for creating a candy buffet on a budget.
– Candy buffets can be expensive, with some costing over $1,000.
– The author shares their experience of creating a candy buffet for 40+ people for under $100.
– The first step is to determine the colors for the candy buffet.
– Buying candy in certain colors after relevant holidays can save money.
– The next step is to determine the amount of candy needed, with a rule of thumb of 8 oz. (1 cup) per guest.
– Bulk candy is recommended for cost savings, with 5 lb. bags being easy to calculate.
– Supplies needed for the candy buffet include candy in different varieties, sizes, and colors, as well as vases, bowls, and other containers.
– Suggestions for items needed include plastic scoops, tongs, buffet signs, and candy bags or boxes.
– The author recommends purchasing vases from the Dollar Tree or checking local thrift stores for containers.
– It is advised to borrow containers from family, friends, and neighbors to save on costs.
– Candy can be purchased from Amazon, Oriental Trading, or local stores like Winco.
– Other inexpensive options for packaging candy include favor boxes or clear cello bags with curling ribbon.
– The author shares a breakdown of their own candy buffet cost, which totaled under $100 for over 40 guests.
– Candy buffets are a popular option for events as they are customizable and versatile.
– Color scheme is an important decision for candy buffets, with options including monochromatic, black and white, rainbow, pastels, and saturated colors.
– Tips for candy buffets include being cautious of brightly colored candies that can melt and stain, using clear dishware to display the candy, and mixing candies of different shades for visual interest.
– It is recommended to purchase about eight ounces of candy per guest and to buy candy in bulk for cost-effectiveness.
– Types of candy commonly used in buffet include gummy candy, lollipops, “filler” candy (chocolate balls), taffy, candy-coated chocolate gems, rock candy, gumballs, twisted marshmallows, malt balls, and extras like cake and coconut snowballs.
– The article suggests adding a small cake to the display and keeping candy fresh by delaying shipment until right before the party and storing it in a cool location.
– It recommends using colorful bowls, cellophane bags, or Chinese-style takeout boxes for guests to put their candy in.
– The article mentions that there are no strict guidelines for how the candy buffet should look and that using jars, bowls, and trays of different sizes can create an appealing display.
– It suggests using a sturdy table and a tablecloth, preferably in a color that matches the candy.
– A backdrop in coordinating colors and pedestals to elevate containers are also recommended.
– The article suggests using a variety of containers such as mason jars, vases, bowls, trays, and cake stands to add visual interest.
– Symmetry can be maintained by using the same type of storage containers on either side of the buffet.
– This article provides some tips and ideas for creating a candy buffet on a budget.
– It suggests elevating one container of candy to create a point of interest and encourages mixing candy in different containers.
– Filler candy can be used at the bottom of larger containers to make it easier to reach other candy.
– Tall containers and containers with narrow mouths should be avoided to ensure easy access.
– Using glass containers is recommended for their aesthetic appeal, but breakable servingware may not be suitable if there are children or clumsy adults present.
– Hygiene is important, so it is best to set up the candy buffet in a way that minimizes guest contact.
– Tongs and candy scoops can be provided for guests to serve themselves and smaller serving implements are preferable to prevent excessive sugar consumption.
– Additional decorations such as confetti, ribbons, garlands, and plush animals can be added to the buffet table, but it is important to not overdo it.
– The article concludes by suggesting candy and chocolate gifts as a perfect centerpiece for a candy buffet.

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Tomato Substitute: Exploring Delicious and Healthy Alternatives

Ricardo Davis

List of Tomato Substitutes for those looking to avoid lectins or nightshades:

1. Cucumber: Provides crunch and freshness.
2. Olives: Adds a different flavor profile and provides umami flavors similar to tomatoes.
3. Cheese: Crumbled feta or shaved parmesan can bring salads or salsas to life.
4. Fresh Dates: Adds sweetness that would be missing without tomatoes.
5. Fresh Strawberries, Other Berries, and Cherries: Surprisingly work well as substitutes, especially in salads.
6. Red Capsicum/Red Bell Peppers: Can be used for their red color and sweetness as a nightshade substitute.
7. Sun-dried Tomatoes, Semi-dried Tomatoes, or Roasted Tomatoes: Provide a more intense flavor.
8. Drained Canned Tomatoes: Option if a tomato flavor is still desired, particularly in cooked dishes.

Note: The article also advises against refrigerating tomatoes to avoid loss of flavor and texture. However, no important facts, stats, or figures about tomato substitutes are provided.

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Discover the Best Tomatoes for Canning: Cultivate Flavorful Preserves

Ricardo Davis

– Tomatoes are a popular vegetable for canning to preserve taste year-round.
– Good canning tomatoes have qualities such as flavor, limited juice, few seeds, and high yields.
– Heirlooms vs. hybrids don’t matter as much for canning tomatoes.
– Tomatoes can be canned as whole fruit or for use in recipes like salsa, sauces, and juices.
– Three common methods for canning tomatoes are water bath canning, pressure canning, and atmospheric steam canning.
– Following proper canning procedures is important to avoid botulism.
– Paste tomatoes are recommended as an “all purpose” canning tomato for various products like salsa, juices, stews, and sauces. The best tomatoes for canning have mild, sweet flavor, very few seeds, low water content, and more flesh. The top three all-purpose picks are Roma tomatoes (75 days, determinate), San Marzano tomatoes (85 days, indeterminate), and Amish Paste tomatoes (80 days, indeterminate).
– Tips for canning tomatoes include using high-quality, disease-free, and firm tomatoes.
– Additional acid, such as bottled lemon juice, may be needed to prevent botulism.
– Use dry measuring cups for vegetables and liquid measuring cups for lemon or lime juice.
– Do not use thickeners before canning.
– Store open jars in the refrigerator and consume within a few days.
– Canned tomatoes and tomato products should be consumed within 12 to 18 months.
– Any kind of tomato can be canned, including beefsteak tomatoes.
– Roma, San Marzano, and other paste or plum tomatoes are best for homemade sauce.
– Canned tomatoes can be used in a variety of dishes.

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How to Wash Grapes to Ensure Safe Consumption: Essential Steps and Tips

Ricardo Davis

– Grapes belong to the Dirty Dozen, a list of produce with high levels of pesticides
– The Environmental Working Group recommends buying organic grapes, but they can be expensive
– Washing grapes adds moisture and can cause them to decompose faster
– It’s best to only wash grapes that you plan to eat right away or in the near future
– The waxy white film on grapes, called the bloom, helps keep them fresh
– To wash grapes, empty them into a colander and rinse with cool water, moving them around to clean all sides
– If desired, sprinkle a little baking soda and/or salt on the grapes and gently scrub to remove the bloom
– Rinse off the baking soda and/or salt with cool water and dry the grapes with a dish towel or paper towel
– Excess moisture can lead to faster spoiling, so let the grapes dry completely after washing
– Grapes should be stored in a ventilated bag in the refrigerator to help preserve them for up to three weeks.
– It is best not to wash grapes until right before eating to avoid moldy or inedible grapes.
– Unwashed grapes can harbor viruses and bacteria such as salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria.

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