AnitaGW's Profile

We have a large kitchen great room, so yes, it is open. I have a large deep stainless undermounted sink that I outfit with an over the sink dish drainer. I can't fathom the work it would take to "hide" dirty dishes. Cleaning as you cook is the only way to go. When we entertain I make everything ahead of time and leave very little, if anything, to do while guests are over. I, too, want to be a "guest" at my own party and this way I can enjoy them and myself. The dishwasher and trash can are emptied beforehand so that clean up during and, especially after, is a breeze.

Cold water. After thoroughly cleaning item run cold water over it. Cold water washes the smell away. Try it. It works.

Sadly, I just recently had to part ways with my 30+ year old Robot Coupe. Along with a few copper pots and pans, this was my first investment into all things culinary. Although the motor was perfectly fine, a small crack in the chopping blade made it inoperable. After searching high and low for a replacement blade, I had to through in the kitchen towel and buy a new model. Reading this article and writing this is almost bringing me to tears once again!

I pierce the end of the egg and then place in a small saucepan. Add water to almost cover. The pan I use is about 4" deep and only hold 3 cups of liquid when filled to the brim, so it isn't possible to fully cover the egg. I cover the pan and when it comes to a boil the lid rattles. I turn off the heat and set a timer for 3 minutes and then, voila! perfect soft boiled egg.

Karate-chopping pillows is passé. Did they not get the memo on this at least a decade ago? I concur with no sinks in kitchen islands. I would add to that having kitchen appliances as focal points. I prefer to have them fully integrated. For me, a microwave should never be seen! How about bathrooms that look like they can never be used because there is no place for grooming necessities. Pedestal sinks, vessels and wall mounted mirrors are for powder rooms.

I take a cup of milk and zap it in the microwave for a couple of minutes. Meanwhile, I put a handful of old fashioned oats into cereal bowl and add a handful of homemade trail mix that consists of equal parts whole almonds, walnuts, pecans, dried cranberries, dried blueberries and dried cherries. When the milk is hot I pour it over the oat mixture and cover with a small plate. I come back a short time later and voila! ready to eat. Try it...so easy, no muss-no fuss and delicious!