Dear Reena: When purchasing eggs for a baking recipe, does it matter what size eggs I use?
Randy
Great question. Most recipes are calibrated with large size eggs.
Extra hint: Eggs for baking should be at room temperature, so that the egg disperses better, making the batter lighter. Bring eggs to room temperature quickly by soaking them in a聽bowl of warm water for five minutes.
Dear Reena: What is the best way to clean a stainless-steel kitchen faucet?
Bradley
Either wipe the faucet with a small amount of olive oil. Or cut a lemon in half, and wipe fixtures to remove hard water and rust marks. This method avoids using harsh chemicals and smells fresh.
Dear Reena: The last few times that I鈥檝e made butter tarts, the brown sugar has settled on the bottom of the shell. Can you tell me why this happens?
Claire
Here are a few possible reasons why the brown sugar is settling on the bottom of the shell: The shells are not chilled before adding the filling. The high humidity in the air may affect the outcome of the butter tarts. The sugar is not incorporated well before the shells are baked. Consider chilling the filled tarts before baking.
Extra tip: Ever run out of brown sugar when you need it? Mix 2 Tbsp molasses for every cup of white granulated sugar.
Dear Reena: I bought a dress, it was absolutely beautiful. I didn鈥檛 realize it was rayon, and I tossed it into the dryer, and shrank it. Is there anything that I can do to save my dress?
Samantha
Don鈥檛 give up yet. Put the dress in cold water and hair conditioner. Gently stretch the bottom, and it should return to the original length.
Feedback from Smart Contributor
Re: Watermarks on wood
Dear Reena: I read your tips about removing watermarks on wood furniture, and they really work. Here is another suggestion: Heat the watermark using a hairdryer on the high setting. Hold the hairdryer in place, and watch the mark disappear.
Helga
Give These Hints a Try
鈥� A great substitute for a rolling pin is a wine bottle.
Olivia
鈥� My best kitchen secret 鈥� to prolong the life of a jug of milk, add a quarter teaspoon baking soda to the jug. Shake it, the milk lasts several days longer.
Tony
鈥� I found the best way to sear steak is to dry the meat with a paper towel. Next, I rub the steak with cornstarch and salt to season. Place the meat in the freezer for 30 minutes before grilling.
Tony
鈥� Reduce freezer burn: I buy a bucket of ice cream once every summer. Since I live alone, it lasts me for months. In order to prevent freezer burn, I remove the lid and lay a piece of plastic on top of the ice cream, then I聽replace the lid.
Q
Every user assumes all risks of injury or damage resulting from the implementation of any suggestions in this column. Test all products on an inconspicuous area first. Ask a question or share a tip at reena.ca.
