bakedatthebeach's Profile

My favorite go-to hostess gift is a package of coffee or tea. Even if the host/hostess doesn't drink it, it's always something you should have on hand for guests.

My mother taught me this trick. I take the napkins out of the washer and paste the wet napkins onto a clean window or the shower wall (I have marble shower walls). I just smooth out the wrinkles and then just peel them off when they are dry.

Many people have suggested flowers, which can be a great gift - especially if they are from your garden. It is important to know that it is poor etiquette to bring a wrapped bouquet of flowers as a hostess gift. It inconveniences the host/hostess as they will have to dig around the house to find a vase and arrange the flowers in front of their guests. If you are going to bring flowers make sure to arrange them in a vase or even a mason jar.

Here's a "hack" that I learned during my cater waiter days. It involves items readily available at Home Depot.
Space 2 glass blocks about 8" apart and balance a piece of marble tile on top. Place a sterno between the glass blocks. The sterno keep the tile warm without burning it. It's great for keeping skewered meats, spring rolls, potstickers, etc. warm.

I am cooking Bouef bourguinon for 27 people. I am cooking it tomorrow and will re-heat it for Christmas Day dinner.

How about the famous Crack Pie? I've made it several times in bar form instead of the round pie form.

I bought the plastic storage rack that Cuisinart sells. I mounted it inside my cabinet. No worries about breaking the stems and it's easy to find the blade I'm looking for.

They are called "Hollywood Driveways" out here in California.

I highly recommend the Waring blender - one-piece glass jar which means there are no rings or gaskets to wear out and cause leaks.

I call this my "cocktail party for one" dinner. I'm single so it gets tiring cooking for one.