Thursday, May 31, 2012

Hot Weather Cooking Tips

Now that the Summer is here in full force ( it was 103 today) I am reminded about some tips for cooking that make life a little easier.

1. Fruit Smoothies are very good and can be very healthy. I always add about 1/4 - 1/2 cup of crushed ice to the blender.  It helps to cool down the mixture and also leaves small ice crystals that are very good at cleansing the palate.

2. My Wicked Milkshakes are always a hit at a Summer Party.  Lots of variations but my favorite is Raspberry - buy some cheap Champagne ( Trust me you will never here me say that again!!) and some cheap Raspberry Sherbet.  Take some good ripe Raspberries - add some of the Champagne and some sherbet and mix in a blender.  This will cool off  a hot day real fast!  Just don't drink too many!

3. Cakes - bake these early in the morning and cool then wrap and put in the Fridge.  You find that they will hold the frosting better.  If you are using a Buttercream, as soon as you finish the cake stick in the Fridge or risk your Buttercream melting.  The cake will stay fresh for a day or two without any damage. 

4. Use your outdoor kitchen. Read my post on Summer Kitchens.  This is when all the time getting that ready will pay off.

5.  Sandwiches - Always use butter on any sandwich that you make in the Summer. It forms a nice barrier that keeps the bread moist and the filling from making the sandwich soggy.

So what tips do you have?