Kitchen & Cooking
- How do I know when chicken is fully cooked?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer: chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part. If you don't have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part and check that the juices run clear and the meat is opaque white all the way through. - What is the best way to store fresh herbs?
Treat herbs like cut flowers: trim the stems, place them in a glass of water, cover loosely with a plastic bag, and refrigerate. For hardy herbs like rosemary and thyme, wrap them in a damp paper towel and store in a plastic bag in the fridge. - How do I fix a dull kitchen knife?
Use a honing rod to realign the edge, then sharpen with a whetstone, manual sharpener, or electric sharpener. For most home cooks, a simple pull-through sharpener or a few strokes on a honing rod will restore a usable edge quickly. - Can I use olive oil for deep frying?
Yes, you can deep fry with olive oil, but it has a lower smoke point than many frying oils and is expensive. For occasional frying, regular or light olive oil works; for frequent deep frying, a neutral high-smoke-point oil like canola or peanut is more practical. - How do I clean a cast iron skillet?
Clean cast iron with hot water and a stiff brush or sponge—no soap needed for everyday cleaning. Dry it immediately and rub with a thin layer of oil to prevent rust. - Why did my cake sink in the middle?
A sunken cake usually means it was underbaked, the oven temperature was off, or the leavening was expired. Opening the oven too early or overmixing can also cause it to collapse.