Multi-Use Mini Tart Tins

Cooking Tip of the Day

I love my mini tart tins. They have so many uses… not just for the traditional mini tart. I like that they’re non-stick so removal is easy and so is clean-up. They are extremely affordable and I encourage you to consider having them on hand…

Today’s recipe uses them for mini fritattas… They’re the perfect size for individual servings of a frittata… and they’re so easy to make and serve.

Waffle Makers 101

Commentary

If you are considering purchasing a waffle maker there are a few features that you may be interested in having in your waffle maker. The following are features that Shopwiki feels are essential to making the perfect waffle… I tend to agree.

• “Browning Control: The crispness and darkness of the waffle can be set to your liking. This is not a necessary feature, but some waffle enthusiasts consider it a requirement. About half the devices feature this.

• Capacity: The number of waffles that can be made simultaneously. Choose between 2 and 4 waffle models, or go for the one-waffle Belgian style maker setup that makes one large, thick, round, (but still divisible) waffle. You may also like having a pizzelle press instead of a waffle maker.

• Waffle Shape: Round, square, quarters, Mickey Mouse, of course, and, my personal favorite, waffle sticks.

• Chime Feature: A bell to indicate waffle completion and assure perfect golden brown. This allows you to walk away from the waffle maker and do other things without having to pay attention to when the waffles stop steaming.

• Versatility: Waffle makers have diversified to include sandwich makers and grills, but the best waffles do not share with paninis or steaks. If you must buy a multi-function machine, make sure the aforementioned features are not excluded from the waffle maker.

• Price: Expect to spend at least $30 to $40 for a waffle maker. “

In addition, you should visit their website for Major Manufacturers and Recommendations.

When choosing an appliance, such as a waffle maker, it’s good to read reviews… I surfed the net a bit and found numerous sites that have written reviews… I would read them. Also look for recalls… I know numerous manufacturers that have recalled some of their models.

Shop around for the waffle maker of your choice... you don't replace appliances often... at least I don't... even after buying one and realizing it doesn't have everything I want... I rarely replace it... so make a wise decision the first time... There is an extensive selection of waffle makers, including ones that make heart shaped waffles at Cookware.com. ...you can go to their website and review what they have.

They even have waffle cone makers and waffle cone mixes....how cool is that?

Uno Farmyard Waffle Iron by VillaWare makes awfully cute animal shaped waffles which are carried by numerous on-line stores including Target and Amazon. Great for kids.

I like my waffle maker… but not having tried other brands… I cannot honestly tell you which one is the best and why. Both Cook’s Illustrated and Good Housekeeping reviewed waffle makers recently, you will find the reviews at Shopwiki.

Pressure Cookers 101

Today we have a guest blogger, Suzanne, an expert from Cookware.com. The topic is Pressure Cookers... she gives us a rundown of what they are and things we should know about them and how they can benefit us. You can visit Cookware.com to see their complete selection of pressure cookers.

I hope you enjoy reading her blog.

What is a Pressure Cooker?

A pressure cook is a sealed pot that heats liquids to a temperature that is far higher than what can be achieved by a regular pot. This fact allows you to cook your food in about 1/3 of the time it would take you in conventional cookware or dinnerware. The pressure cooker builds up steam and pressure as the liquid boils and is released through a valve to keep the unit from exploding. Once the optimal amount of pressure is reached, the heat is turned down to maintain a constant temp for a designated period of time.

What are the Benefits of a Pressure Cooker?

Pressure cookers are great for quickly and evenly cooking meats, vegetables, and even fruits. When you boil foods they lose much of their vitamins and minerals, but in a pressure cooker foods retain their nutritional value. Also, not only do pressure cookers prepare meals in a fraction of the time, but they also save energy and prevent smells from permeating throughout the house while you cook. They help trap in flavor so they are perfect for slow cooked meals such as soups, stews, and chili.

Are Pressure Cookers Dangerous?

When ever you are working with contents under pressure, you should always be mindful of what you are doing. Many people fear pressure cookers because of stories involving them exploding, but modern pressure cookers come equipped with a back up pressure release valve to avoid any such accidents. It is important however, that you read the directions carefully before you attempt to cook anything with a pressure cooker. Pressure cookers come in a variety of sizes and with different options, so it’s important that you know the inner workings for your particular make and model before you turn it on.