DIY: Moroccan Seasoning

Have a recipe that calls for Moroccan seasoning (or possible "ras el hanout"), but can't find it in your local store?  Try making your own!

To do so, combine equal parts of the following:

• Cinnamon
• Turmeric
• White Pepper
• Cumin
• Coriander
• Paprika

Store the mix in an airtight container; try it sprinkled on fish or mixed into lamb burgers.  Other possibilities to give it a try - couscous or chicken stew.

Mmm...tasty!

Sit, Stay!

Ever have problems with the cutting board your using slipping and sliding around on the counter as you attempt to slice and dice?

If so, try putting a damp kitchen towel on the work surface (i.e. counter), then put the cutting board on top of the towel.  Viola...a cutting board that sits, and stays!

Mmm...tasty!

What's a "Jigger?"

Some recipes, especially drink recipes, call for a "jigger" of an ingredient.  Exactly how much is a jigger?  In terms of measurement:

1 jigger = 1 1/2 fluid ounces

However, there are also pieces of bar ware known as jiggers or double jiggers.  These usually have graduated marks denoting the measurements in ounces or if not marked for specific measurement hold between 1 and 2 ounces.

My rule of thumb when it comes to mixing cocktails:  if you're unsure how much of the ingredient to add to the drink, start small and mix to your taste!

Mmm...tasty!

Wacky Weather

The weather around these parts the last few weeks had been a roller coaster ride.  The ups.  The downs.  It almost deserves it's own musical score.

But, then again, the weather around here isn't known for being even-keeled.  Will Rogers didn't quip (reportedly), "If you don't like the weather in Oklahoma, just wait a minute and it'll change" for no good reason.

Salt Schedule

Knowing when to salt vegetables while cooking can make a huge difference in the outcome.  

• If you want crisp, browned veggies, salt them at the end of cooking - after they've browned.  
• If you want soft, saucy vegetables add the salt early in the cooking process.  Why?  The salt draws out moisture, which will help the veggies break down.

Mmm...tasty!