Digital Cooking Thermometer

 

Lately my oven has been, let's just say, temperamental.  Luckily, my parents gave me a digital thermometer like this on for Christmas.  It has been such a lifesaver this week!!  I love it!!  Unfortunately, Nate thinks it is a timer and just wants to play with it!

Microplane

Okay, I feel like Rachael Ray in this post, but I love my microplane!  A cute, small little grater!  In our kitchen we use it to zest lemons and limes, as well as grate cheese and nutmeg.  It is a handy little thing, and super easy to clean.

does someone really need this?

Amazon sent me some suggestions of things I may like - an electronic grocery list organizer.  Really?  $150 to organize my grocery list?  Seems just a bit excessive!!  People seem to like it, especially the cheaper models.  Guess I am a little old school - I like paper lists.  Here is a good template for you to use.  I really like it, and print it out and put on the fridge.  And I'll highlight or put a star next to the items I have a coupon for.

onion chopper

One thing I hate to chop is onions.  They make me cry!!  I've tried all the methods - cut the end off and let it rest, wear goggles, put a matchstick in your mouth.  You name it, I tried it.

A couple weeks ago I got this onion chopper at the outlet mall in Hillsboro.  Wow, it is amazing!  Everything is chopped into the same sized bits!  It has measurements on the side, and can go in the dishwasher.  Seriously, how did I go soo long without it!

Miracle thaw

Many years ago, when I still lived at home, we bought a miracle thaw board.  A metal tray that allows food to defrost much faster than on the counter (which is unsafe), but doesn't cook 'em (like I seem to do when I defrost in the microwave).  Yes, I know in the fridge is best, but this is another great option.

I have the "older" model, but here is the new one, the Handy Gourmet Defrosting Tray.

It is one of those funny, made-for-tv items that actually works and that I have been using for years.  Seriously, Ryan thought is was funny when we were dating, but now realizes how great it is.  Hmmm, maybe I need to add the new model to my amazon wish list...

the best can opener!

I wanted to share another favorite gadget, my can opener.  My in-law's gave this to me for my birthday, which I thought was a little hokey.  Then I realized what a blessing it was - no sharp edges, works as I do other things, etc.  I just love it!  It is quick and helpful when I have to open many cans when I am making sauce, soup, etc.  And no more hand cramps!  Thanks Jim and Terri!!

Zip and Steam bags

In addition to recipes, I wanted to include in this blog some tips I have about cooking, as well as some of my favorite gadgets. One of my favorites is the Ziploc Zip and Steam bags. These bags are super easy, with instructions right on the bag to let you know how long to cook the food for. I've only done veggies, and have really enjoyed 'em. No need to add water, and you can add whatever seasoning you want. It is economical in that you can use fresh or frozen veggies, and don't have to buy the more expensive ones that cook in the same bag. Last time I steamed veggies on the stove I burned the heck out of my hand, so this is a great lifesaver for me. They come in 2 sizes, medium and large. Medium seems to cook the right amount of food for the 4 of us.

Here is my super easy recipe for Orange Green Beans.

1 lb fresh green beans

1 tbsp orange marmalade

1. Trim both ends of green beans.

2. Place in Zip and Steam bag and put marmalade in with it.

3. Mix in bag.

4. Microwave for time on bag. I usually do for about 30 seconds less since I like my veggies a little crisp.

5. Put on plate and serve!