Mothers Day

If you have not already taken care of  a present for Mothers Day, here are some ideas.
1. Find a cooking class in your area.  Most cooks like the idea of exploring new options and finding new friends in a comfortable environment.
2. Sharpen her knives.  If you don't know how take them to a professional that will put a sharp edge on her knives or a buy a new knife.
3. Give her a "Gift Certificate" from you for a special dinner or other meal that you will cook. That way you will have time to get the best ingredients and plan something special that she will like.
4. Buy a new cookbook ( mine would be good - just saying ;o) )

I hope these help.  It is never too late to show your mom that you appreciate her!

Happy  Mothers Day

Stuff this!!

Here is a great way to add flavor to roasted chicken. Cut a lemon in half and place one half with the cut side forward toward the neck in the cavity of the chicken after you have salted and peppered the cavity.  Take 5 -8 cloves of smashed garlic and place them around the cavity and then place the other half of the lemon with cut surface facing out in the cavity.  For best results truss the chicken - that heps the meat cook more evenly.  Rub the outside of the chicken with olive oil and then add your seasonings.  I use lemon pepper and kosher salt, or Davis Dust, this will help your chicken be moist and flavorful.

Can I borrow a cup of.....

If you have ever been in the middle of recipes and found that you were out of one of the ingredients you will be able to use today's post. I searched for several different sources and found this great link that lists a lot of ingredient substitutions.

http://www.ag.ndsu.edu/pubs/yf/foods/he198w.htm

Take a look.  I think you find the list very complete.  I would add one for cakes.  If you run out of eggs, you can substitute 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise for 1 egg. It will not affect the taste or texture of the cake.

Have a great day!