Your Burning Questions in the Kitchen, Answered
Our experts take on the tough topics.
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Some rules are made to be broken, but which kitchen do's and don'ts do you really need to follow? We've got the answers right here.
Can I keep my slow cooker on if I’m out of the house?
As long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions, you can leave a slow cooker on low for up to 8 hours unattended. Two more safety tips: Keep the liquid level below the maximum fill line and be sure the slow cooker is on a heatproof counter away from any walls. And set your slow cooker to low if you’re leaving the house!
Should I leave the paper insert inside a foil cupcake liner?
Those paper liners are designed to keep the foil ones from sticking together. There’s no need to use both at the same time, but you can remove the paper ones and use them another time!
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Do I really need to sharpen my knives?
Dull knives are not only bad at slicing, they can be dangerous too: They require more force to use and can easily slip. You should sharpen your knives as often as you go to the dentist (roughly every 6 months). Use an electric sharpener or have them professionally sharpened. To keep the edge straight, hone your knives regularly by drawing the blade against a honing steel.
Can I store food in an open can?
From a food-safety standpoint, refrigerating a half-empty can of beans or veggies for a couple of days is fine. (If you grew up thinking this would give you lead poisoning, note that the US banned lead-soldered food cans in 1995!) However, we recommend storing food in a reusable container with a lid to preserve flavor and texture.
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Do I need to return an item to its shelf at the grocery store if I don’t want it?
If you’re still shopping, bring the item back to where you found it. If you’re already in the checkout line or you’re in a rush, you can ask the cashier or another employee to return it for you. Whatever you do, don’t stash it on a random shelf: No one wants to find a carton of milk in the chip aisle!
Is peanut butter safe for dogs?
Read the ingredient list first. Vets suggest giving dogs natural unsalted peanut butter with no added sugar; in moderation, it’s a great source of protein, healthy fats and vitamins. Make sure yours doesn’t contain the alternative sweetener xylitol—it’s toxic for pups.
Can I keep olive oil next to the stove?
Even though you use olive oil when you’re at the stove, you shouldn’t store it there. Keep your oil in a cool dark place for maximum freshness—exposure to heat and light can cause the oil to go rancid faster. If stored correctly, most olive oils will last for up to 12 months.
Credits:
Introduction written by Sabrina Choudhary for FoodNetwork.com.
All other text written by Becca Miller for Food Network Magazine.
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