How Long Do You Grill Filet Mignon

There’s nothing quite like the taste of a good filet mignon. All-too-often, however, people are afraid to grill this fabulous cut of meat for fear of ruining it. If you have ever wondered how long you grill filet mignon, here is the answer:

• Filet mignon cooks best under hot quick heat. Grilling a nice thick steak for just five minutes on each side with a very hot grill may be all you need if you like your steak rare to medium rare.  A little longer if you want all the pink gone from the inside.

How to Cook Filet Mignon

 how to cook filet mignon the correct way. Begin by following these basic tips:

Filet Mignon isn’t cheap and for good reason. It is a fabulous cut of beef that can be cooked to tasty perfection with a little knowledge and skill. If the thought of ruining such a fine piece of meat scares you, then you will want to learn

Pick your cut carefully. Choose a thick piece of meat that is bright pink in color. Be sure there are veins of white marble running through it to ensure juicy flavor.

 

Begin by rubbing a bit of olive oil over your meat to give it more flavor.

 

Always use hot quick heat when cooking filet mignon to seal in its natural juices. This can be done by broiling it in the oven on the highest heat setting for about 5 minutes on each side, or grilling it on high heat for the same amount of time. If you choose to oven cook your filet, be sure to pan sear it first in a frying pan; then cook it at 500 degrees until it is still a bit pink inside.

 

Never cook a filet mignon to well done. Medium rare offers the tastiest results.

 

Let your steak sit for about five minutes after removing it from the heat. It will continue cooking for a few minutes and then the juices will begin to make their way through the entire cut of meat. This makes it very tender and delicious.

 

Following these tips that show you how to cook a filet mignon will ensure that you never overcook or dry out a great steak again. Now that you know how to cook a filet mignon it is time to head to the butcher and show off your new cooking skills to your family and friends.

How to Cook Beef Tenderloin

Beef tenderloin is a very delicate cut of meat and requires great care in preparing and cooking it in order to bring out its true flavor. Not taking the time to learn how to cook a beef tenderloin properly can result in a culinary disaster; plus a waste of a great piece of meat.

To ensure that you know how to cook beef tenderloin correctly, be sure to follow these expert tips:

Be sure to cook your beef tenderloin for a short amount of time Unlike heartier cuts of beef, tenderloin is so delicate that cooking it too long will not only ruin the flavor, but make it tough.

 

• Never cook a tenderloin more than medium rare to ensure the best (and tastiest) result.

• Never put a tenderloin in the oven cold. Always let it sit out at room temperature at least half an hour before cooking.

Always tie your tenderloin with butcher’s twine before cooking. This will keep the ends from curling up and getting hard.

 

Be sure to sear your tenderloin on each end for two minutes before oven baking.

 

Rub the meat with olive oil, salt and pepper and then place a 400 degree oven until the internal temperature reaches 125 degrees (this will take between 30-50 minutes).

 

After taking your tenderloin from the oven, be sure to let it rest in its own juices or at least 10 minutes before serving.

 

Learning how to cook a beef tenderloin isn’t just a good idea, it is a must to ensure a great dinner worthy of the price you paid for your main course.

How to Cook Roast Pork

Cooking roast pork is not all that difficult. A typical 3-pound pork roast yields at least 6 servings. If your family has a taste for moist, tender meat, a boneless pork loin roasted slowly might be just the thing for dinner. Start by mixing some of your favorite dried spices with one tablespoon of olive oil and then rubbing it over the meat. Do not trim the fat on the side of the roast. 

 

This will help to keep the meat moist while roasting. Place the roast on a wire rack in a shallow roasting pan fat side up. Cook the roast in an oven preheated to 450 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes before reducing the temperature. Reset the oven temperature to 250 degrees Fahrenheit and continue cooking the meat. How long to cook roast pork depends on the size and shape of the roast. 

 

Meat should cook until the internal temperature reaches 150 degrees on a meat thermometer. This may require another hour to hour and a half of cooking time. After you remove the roast from the oven, allow it to sit for another 15 minutes before slicing.

How To Cook Roast Beef

Roasting is often considered the best way to cook a large, tender cut of beef. Other beef cuts that are graded prime or choice roast well, too. Lesser grades of beef cook better by braising. Start by letting the roast warm up to room temperature. Season the meat with salt and pepper before placing on a wire rack in a shallow roasting pan. 

 

Cooking roast beef can be done different ways, however, roasting the meat at a consistent oven temperature of 300 degrees Fahrenheit reduces shrinkage and cooks the roast evenly. 

 

How long to cook roast beef varies among the different cuts of meat, the number of pounds the roast, the amount of fat, and the bone. A general rule of thumb to follow when cooking an 8-pound rib roast to medium rare is to allow at least 20 minutes for each pound of meat.

Slice any leftover roast beef, add to a pan with gravy, and heat to boiling. This is a tasty recipe for serving over warm rolls or mashed potatoes. Another way to serve leftover roast beef is to mix together one green onion, minced, 2 teaspoons of sweet pickle relish, 1/2 cup each of diced celery and cubed Swiss cheese, and salt and pepper to taste. Add to one cup of finely chopped roast beef. Serve in a sandwich on lettuce.

How To Cook Pasta

Cooking pasta starts with using a large pot. If the pot is too small, and you don’t cook the pasta in enough water, the pasta will stick together. It takes about 6 quarts of water to cook one pound of dry pasta. Fill the pot 3/4 full with cold water, cover and bring to a rolling boil. Once the water begins to boil, add 2 tablespoons of coarse salt for every pound of pasta. Don’t worry. Much of the salt will drain off with the water.

Add pasta to the boiling water. Keep the stove set at high heat to get the water boiling again. Stir the pasta gently during the first couple of minutes of cooking to keep it from sticking together. Continue to cook the pasta uncovered. How long to cook pasta varies with the thickness and shape of the pasta. Some types take longer to cook than others. 

 

Cook for at least 4 minutes and then watch the pot carefully, as pasta does not take long to overcook. Pasta is done when it is tender yet still firm. Most pastas cook within 10 minutes after the water returns to a boil.

How to Cook Ribs on the Grill

When you think of ribs, does your mouth begin to water? If so, don’t rely on your favorite restaurant to satisfy your appetite. Learn how to cook ribs on the grill at home and enjoy a delicious rib dinner any night of the week.

Not sure how to cook ribs on the grill? Here are a few pointers to get you started:

Know what kind of rib you are cooking. Not every rib is alike. Short ribs require a different technique than babybacks. Beef ribs are heartier than pork ribs and therefore can handle stronger sauces and herbs. Get to know the ribs you like so you will better understand how to cook them.

 

Always season your ribs with a dry rub of your favorite herbs and spices. This will help bring out the flavor of the meat. One warning here though: avoid using a sweet or honey mustard rub since it will burn before your meat is thoroughly cooked. While you can grill your ribs immediately after seasoning them, most Grill masters agree that letting them sit overnight will make them taste best.

 

It doesn’t matter whether you are using a gas grill or one that uses charcoal. The key to successful ribs is cooking them very slowly. This can mean manning the grill for as long as eight hours to get your ribs just right. That may sound like a long time to keep an eye on your ribs, but it certainly is worth it.

 

Of course, learning how to cook ribs on the grill doesn’t have to take this much thought, preparation, or time, but the end result is well worth the effort if you want ribs that taste like a pro made them.

Canning Tips

Canning summer produce is a late summer tradition that allows you to preserve fresh fruits and vegetables from either local farming crops or your own garden. It’s also an economical way to provide for healthful eating throughout the year. Although canning can be a time-consuming process, following some basic tips can make the chore go faster.

The first thing you need to do is to clear plenty of workspace in your kitchen. Canning only one kind of produce at a time keeps the chore more manageable. Assemble a large stock pot for sterilizing jars and lids, another 6-quart stainless pot, a stainless steel funnel and ladles, jar grabbers, plenty of paper towels, and of course, canning jars, lids and rings.

Always can fruits and vegetables that are picked at peak ripeness. Can the freshest produce to get the best flavor. Keep in mind that acid not only preserves flavor, but also prevents the growth of bacteria. Use lemon juice when canning fruit and vinegar for canning vegetables. 

Wipe the rims of filled jars clean before sealing lids tight. Date the jars so that you are sure to use within one year of canning. Allow jars to cool at least 12 hours before storing in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

How to Cook Babyback Ribs in the Oven

Want to learn the quickest way to cook babyback ribs in the oven? Good, because you are going to learn the simplest method there is.

Since ribs take a lot of time to cook and ovens tend to dry meat out, brining your ribs are very important to keeping them juicy. To brine your ribs simply place them in a container of water, salt and your preferred herbs and spices and soak them for about an hour before cooking.

 

Once your ribs have soaked thoroughly in your brine, feel free to dry rub them with whatever herbs and spices you like mixed with a little brown sugar. This will help to bring out the meat’s natural flavors.

 

Before placing your ribs in the oven be sure to braise them with a little chicken broth, white wine or even orange juice to keep them moist.

 

Now, place your ribs in a 250 degree oven for 2-4 hours, depending on how many ribs you are cooking and how tender they get.

 

A few minutes before they are ready, glaze your ribs with barbecue sauce a bit more of your braising liquid. This will help to caramelize them and make them extra tasty.

 

As you can see, learning how to cook babyback ribs in the oven is simple. This is one food that requires little prep time; allowing you to get them started and walk away until they are done. So get yourself some ribs and get started. A great dinner awaits.

How to Cook Steak in the Oven

For most people, cooking steak in the oven is the fastest and easiest way to get dinneron the table. Unfortunately, few of us have ever been taught how to cook steak in the oven the right way, leaving us with dry, tough meals. To avoid making your next steak dinner taste more like shoe leather than a good cut of meat, try these simple tips:

• Begin with the right steak. Not every steak cooks well in the oven. Some are too thin and can dry out; while others are too thick and take way too long (and too much work). For best results stick with cuts that are about 1 ¼ to 1 ½ inches thick and 12-16 ounces in weight.

Marinate for better flavor. There are plenty of ways to marinate a steak, but a little olive oil and your favorite spices will work well. Some people even use Italian salad dressing for a quick easy marinate. No need to let your steak soak overnight; a half hour is more than enough time.

 

Sear your steak for about 1 minute on each side before placing in the oven. It will make it easier to cook, plus it will give it that “grill” look on the plate.

 

Cook in a 325 degree oven for about 20-30 minutes for a perfect medium steak.

Never thought it could be that easy did you? Learning how to cook steak in the oven is fast, simple and oh, so tasty!

How to Cook a New York Strip Steak

If you are a steak lover, you may be wondering how to cook a New York Strip Steak in a way that rivals the masters. Here are a few tips to teach you what to without it losing its juiciness or taste:

Leave a little fat on your preferred cut of meat. While leaner cuts are healthiest, leaving a small amount of fat on your steak will give it extra flavor.

 

Marinate your steak. One of the most important things expert steak makers do to keep their strip steak tender is to marinate it for a few hours (or even overnight) before roasting or grilling it.

 

A major key on how to cook a New York Strip Steak correctly is to cook it slowly. It doesn’t matter whether you are grilling or roasting your steak, cooking it over slowly over a low to medium heat will help keep it juicy, tender and full of flavor.

 

No one can turn away a thick juicy steak. Learning how to cook a New York Strip Steak the right way using these simple tips will keep your friends and family coming back for more as they wonder where you learned to get a steak so perfect.

How to Cook Hamburgers on the Stove

Everyone loves a grilled hamburger, but what if you don’t have the time to fire up the grill, or it is the middle of winter and you have a hankering for a thick juicy burger? Learn how to cook a hamburger on the stove so that you won’t be left hungry when grilling isn’t an option. Here’s how:

Add some of your favorite seasonings to your patty. This will not only add some flavor, but can help keep it moist and juicy.

 

Be sure to place your hamburger patties in a hot skillet, then sear for about 1 minute on each side.

 

Turn the heat on the stove down to low.

 

Add about 1/8 inch of water to the bottom of the pan.

 

Bring the water to a boil.

 

Cover the skillet with a lid.

 

Cook the patties in your covered skillet for about 15 minutes

Remove lid.
 

Allow patties to continue cooking until all of the water has been evaporated form the pan.

 

Be sure that no pink remains in the center of your burger, then eat!

 

There really is no need to forgo the taste of a great burger just because you can’t grill one. Learn how to cook hamburgers on the stove with these quick tips and you can enjoy this favorite meal anytime.

How to Cook a Boneless Top Sirloin Steak

You don’t have to pay premium prices to get a great steak. Just about any cut
of meat can be made to satisfying perfection if you know how to prepare it.

If you want to give your family a good sirloin, then try these simple tips designed
to show you how to cook a boneless top sirloin steak:


 

Start with a leaner cut. Too much fat on a boneless sirloin can make it greasy.

Tenderize your cut using a tasty marinade

Use medium heat (either a low broiling setting or medium coals on the grill) for best results

Do not use a lot of salt, especially when grilling. It will draw the moisture out of the meat

Sear each side for one minute and then grill for 10 minutes per ounce

Since steak will continue to cook even after it is removed from the heat, it is important when learning how to cook a boneless top sirloin steak correctly to take it out of the oven or off of the grill before it is cooked to perfection.

 

Learning how to cook a boneless top sirloin steak isn’t as difficult as you might initially think. Follow these simple tips and wonder at how delicious your next steak dinner turns out.

How to Cook Fish

There are a lot of different kinds of fish to cook and almost as many different ways to prepare it. How long to cook fish varies depending on the type of fish, and whether it is fresh or frozen. 

 

A general rule of thumb to follow is 10 minutes cooking time for each inch of fish. If you cook fish in a sauce, you can reduce the cooking time to 5 minutes for every inch. Frozen fish takes longer to cook, usually about 20 minutes per inch of fish. You can tell that fish is done cooking when the flesh turns opaque and the meat flakes when tested with a fork. Overcooking makes fish tough not to mention loses its flavor.

One tasty way to cook fish fillets is to pan-fry them in a heavy skillet. Rinse the fillets and pat them dry with paper towels before dipping in a coating mixture. Heat one inch of oil in the skillet over medium heat to 365 degrees Fahrenheit. Fry fish until they get golden brown, usually in about 5 minutes. Remove fish from pan and lay on a plate covered with paper towels to drain.

How to Cook a Steak on a Gas Grill

Some grill snobs would make you believe that the only way to cook a great steak is on a charcoal grill with specialty wood chips to enhance the flavor. Don’t fall for this fallacy. You can learn how to cook a steak on a gas grill and get the same great flavor. All you have to do is follow these simple tips:

Choose your steak wisely. Do not pick a cut less than 1 ¼ inch thick (anything thinner than this will dry out); and no thicker than 1 inch (a cut thicker than this is difficult for anyone but the most experienced griller to cook properly).

 

Score, or slice your steak about every inch or so. Learning how to cook a steak on a gas grill successfully requires keeping it from curling while it is being heated.

 

Since gas grills aren’t as hot as their charcoal counterparts, it is very important to heat your grill as hot as possible before attempting to cook any type of meat – but especially steak.

 

Be sure to lightly oil the grill bars before laying your meat cut on them (otherwise you risk the steak sticking)

 

Season to taste

 

Be sure to position the steak on the hottest part of the grill, but not directly over the grilling bars since this can cause a flare-up.

 

Be sure to flip your steak every 5-8 minutes for even cooking.

 

Take off grill and then let stand for 5 minutes before serving (this will allow the juices to make their way through the steak, making it taste even more tender and delicious.

 

Taking the time to learn how to cook a steak on a gas grill is a great idea; especially if you don’t have the time or talent for charcoal grilling.

How To Cook Lamb

Cooking lamb is similar to cooking prime cuts of beef. You must not overcook the meat if you want it tender. Tender cuts such as fillet or loin chops should still be pink inside when you serve the meat, as lamb should never be cooked more than medium rare for the best taste. The first step is to bring the lamb to room temperature before cooking it.

How long to cook lamb depends on the type of cut. Rib or loin lamb chops tend to be the most tender, although sirloin chops can be cooked tender as well. Cooking the meat for medium doneness requires a longer cooking time than cooking it to medium rare. Cook times can vary between 15 and 40 minutes per pound of meat.

Lamb chops can be broiled, grilled or pan-fried. Three quarter inch chops are better for cooking as thinner chops easily overcook. The meat should be pink not dark. Darker meat means that it comes from an older lamb. Marinate lamb chops for an hour or two before broiling. For a simple marinade combine onion, salt, olive oil and lemon juice. Turn the meat several times while cooking so that it cooks evenly.

How To Cook Steak

Knowing how to cook steak isn’t always easy. If the meat is cooked too quickly, it tends to dry out or become leathery. Start by using a heavy frying pan or skillet. Preheat the pan over high heat until hot. Your steaks will cook tough if you allow the pan to get too hot. Cooking steak requires good judgment when it comes to the timing.

Bring steaks to room temperature before brushing with olive or canola oil. If the steaks sizzle when you first place them in the frying pan, then you know the pan is hot enough. How long to cook a steak for doneness depends on how you like your meat. Cook the steak for about 4 minutes on one side before reducing the heat and cooking for another 3 minutes. Turn the steak over using a pair of tongs. 

 

Be careful not to pierce the meat so that no juices escape. Cook the steak for another 6 minutes if you prefer your meat medium done. Cooking times will vary if you want the meat rare or like it well done. Rare meat should be supple when you press it with the tip of your finger. Remove steaks from the pan when done and allow them to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This makes for meat that is moist, tender, and flavorful.

How To Cook Meat

                                                  How To Cook Meat

 

There are different methods for cooking meat. You can roast tender cuts of meat on the stove top instead of in the oven. Preheat a heavy frying pan or skillet over medium heat. If drops of water splashed on the surface of the pan bead, the pan is hot enough to cook meat. Start by browning the meat on both sides. Do not add any liquid to the pan unless a recipe specifically calls for it. 

 

Once the meat is evenly browned, cover the pan and continue cooking until the meat begins to sizzle. How long to cook meat depends on whether you are cooking beef, pork, venison, veal or lamb. Cooking time per pound also depends on how well done you want the meat. Cooking meat rare takes less time than cooking it to well done.

Pan-broiling is another method of cooking meat, particularly steaks, chops, and cutlets. Again add meat to a preheated skillet and cook on each side until brown. Cover and cook until the meat sizzles before turning the heat down to low. Cook meat for another 5 to 10 minutes until done. Steaks should be cooked on medium heat rather than on low.

How to Cook Tenderloin

When cooking tenderloin, quickly brown the tenderloin in a large, heated skillet before cooking in the oven. Rub the meat with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper before browning. After browning tenderloins in a skillet, brush on some Dijon mustard before placing in a roasting pan that has been lightly oiled. Rub a mixture of olive oil, rosemary, dried thyme, and minced garlic over the roast. 

 

You can add mushrooms and sliced shallots to the bottom of the roasting pan along with 1/2 cup of red wine to use as a glaze later. How long to cook tenderloin depends on the size of the roast. A small 2 or 3 pound roast cooked to medium rare takes about 35 minutes to finish cooking or until a meat thermometer inserted in the center reaches 130 degrees Fahrenheit. Let the roast sit for at least 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the juices in the meat to settle and makes carving easier.

Pork tenderloin is another cut of meat that can be cooked quickly. However, because it is a lean cut of meat you do have to be careful not to overcook it. The small size of a pork tenderloin makes it a perfect meat to grill.

Thanksgiving Vegetarian Style

If planning Thanksgiving vegetarian style is on your to-do list this holiday, you can still serve many of your family’s favorite traditional foods, only with a different twist.

Stuff and baste a tofu turkey just like the real thing. It may not look like a once feathered foul, but it will taste delicious all the same. Go ahead and serve it with all the usual trimmings. Your guests are bound to come away from the dinner table pleasingly satisfied.

Prepare acorn squash stuffed with long grain rice as a side dish with an appropriately seasonal touch. Begin by cutting medium acorn squash in half and de-seeding. Simmer rice in vegetable stock until tender. Add a dash each of sage and dried thyme. Ingredients like celery, onion, fresh minced parsley, toasted pecans, and dried cranberries give the rice more flavor. The squash take about 1 hour to bake.

Cranberry spinach salad is another festive touch that takes only a few minutes to prepare. Combine baby spinach leaves in a large bowl with toasted almonds or pecans and dried cranberries. Other variations include adding golden raisins, fresh figs or mandarin oranges into the salad. Toss in dressing made with olive oil, balsamic or red wine vinegar, toasted sesame seeds, and a bit of minced onion and sugar.

Instructions on How to Cook Lobster Tails

Looking to offer a special delicacy to your dinner guests? Think lobster tails! Whoa, you say, that sounds hard. It doesn’t have to be. Follow these simple instructions on how to cook lobster tails for your next fancy get together:

Make sure that frozen tails are thawed thoroughly (it is best to thaw them in the refrigerator for at least 10 hours) before preparing them for cooking.

Split the shell down the back and remove the meat.

Cook by either

a. Boiling. Drop the tails into a pot of boiling water. Let them boil for about 1 minute per ounce.

b. Oven Bake. Brush tails with butter and place in a 400 degree oven for 10 minutes

c. Grilling. Baste tails in butter, than place on a medium heat grill for about 10 minutes on each side.

Not sure when you lobster tail is thoroughly cooked? It will look transparent. Take it off the heat immediately once it appears this way to avoid an overcooked, rubbery tail.

 

Follow these instructions for cooking lobster tails and your next meal will surely be a hit amongst your guests.

Fall Cooking Ideas

The fall harvest provides lots of seasonal foods for fall cooking ideas and healthy eating.

Visit an orchard and pick your own apples to make easy applesauce recipes. Peel and core several medium size apples before slicing. Cut the slices into chunks and add to a pan filled with 1/2 cup of water. Simmer the apples for 15 minutes. Add a few sprinkles of cinnamon and sugar to taste. Some cooks prefer to use brown sugar for extra sweetness. Eat the applesauce warm or refrigerate and eat it cold.

Toasted pumpkin seeds are another popular fall snack. Rinse pumpkin seeds thoroughly to remove the pulp. Spread out on paper towels and allow to dry overnight. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spray pumpkin seeds with cooking spray or lightly toss in olive oil to coat. Season by sprinkling with salt, cayenne pepper or garlic or onion powder. Bake at 250 degrees F for approximately 1 hour. The seeds are done when golden brown. Toss every 15 minutes during baking.

Butternut squash is low in calories. You can prepare it whole or sliced. Cook over high heat in a vegetable steamer until tender. Because squash is packed full of nutrients, steaming helps maintain its nutritional value.

                   How To Cook Scallops

 

Cooking scallops can be a task that many home cooks do not attempt. While scallops are fairly easy to prepare, knowing how long to cook scallops can be tricky. Whether sautied or pan-fried, the key is to cook them quickly so that they do not become rubbery. 

 

Start by patting the scallops dry with a paper towel. Season with a dash of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Add one tablespoon each of olive oil and butter to a medium size skillet heated on medium-high. Use cooking tongs to place scallops into the pan one at a time. Cook scallops on one side for about 4 minutes. Gently flip over once with the tongs and cook for another minute. When scallops turn opaque, they are done.

Scallops can also be cooked by baking. Line the bottom of a casserole dish with aluminum foil. Brush lightly with olive oil before placing scallops in the baking dish. Bake in an oven preheated to 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 12 to 15 minutes. Scallops will turn white in color and should be firm when done. Some cooks choose to spoon a mixture of butter, wine and other seasonings over scallops before baking for added flavor.

How To Cook Bacon

While most cooks traditionally fry bacon, it can be baked just as crispy in the oven. Lay slices of bacon on a rack placed on a baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes or so in an oven preheated to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. If you choose to fry bacon, keep in mind that cooking bacon requires keeping a careful eye on it and turning the strips often. Thinner strips of bacon fry up crispier. 

 

Cooking bacon slowly on medium to medium-low heat helps to reduce shrinkage and render out excess fat. Another tip for cooking bacon is to prick the bacon strips with a fork to keep them from curling.

How long to cook bacon in the microwave will vary according to the wattage of the microwave oven, as well as the thickness of the slices. Place 6 strips of bacon in a single layer on a microwave safe dish covered with a paper towel. Cover the strips of bacon with another paper towel to absorb the fat. 

 

Set the timer on the microwave for 2 minutes to start. Check bacon at one-minute intervals after that until the bacon strips reach the desired crispness. Cooking 6 strips of bacon in the microwave generally takes about 5 minutes on high heat. If you let the bacon sit for a few minutes after removing it from the microwave, the strips will get crispier as they cool.

How to Build a Grill Out of a 55-gallon Drum

If you have ever considered how to build a grill out of a 55-gallon drum, here are

some simple directions:

• take a 55 gallon drum and mark it off in quarters using masking tape
• cut out one of the quarters using a hacksaw (this will become your grill’s lid)
• weld some angle iron in a rectangular shape to the grill’s oil drum for support.
• tack down a piece of metal mesh to the grill to act as your grilling space.
• If you want to add legs to your grill, use two pieces of 1×2 steel

                                                                 Now that you know how to build a grill out of a 55-gallon drum, it’s time to get started.

How To Cook Lobster

Cooking lobster can be a controversial topic. Even many lobster lovers are in favor of the most humane way for cooking a live lobster in boiling water. Some people suggest placing the lobster in the freezer for about 10 minutes to numb it first before cooking.

While most cooks tend to boil lobster, others steam it, claiming that this method gives it the meat more taste. If you choose the boiling method of cooking, use a large pot and boil enough water to cover the lobster. Add two tablespoons of course sea salt for every two quarts of water. 

 

Drop the lobster into the boiling water headfirst. How long to cook lobster generally is based on 10 minutes for the first pound and then 3 minutes more for each additional pound. When the lobster is fully cooked, drain and immediately serve hot. While you do not want to overcook the lobster, you don’t want to remove it from the pot until the shell has turned bright red in color and the meat is white.

To steam a lobster, place a steaming rack in the bottom of a large pot. Add two inches of water and one tablespoon of sea salt. Cover the pot and bring the water to a rolling boil before placing the lobster on the rack. Steam the lobster for 14 minutes for the first pound, adding 3 minutes cook time for each additional pound.

How to Cook Frozen Raw Shrimp

Shrimp is a wonderful addition to any get together. Whether it is a large holiday party or small dinner party for a few friends, shrimp can be used as an appetizer or to supplement your main course. While pick and peel shrimp trays are the easiest to use, these precooked morsels can be pricey. Buying frozen raw shrimp is much cheaper, but leaves you with a dilemma: how to cook frozen raw shrimp.

To learn some simple ways to cook frozen raw shrimp without the worry, just follow these suggestions from industry pros:

It is always best to thaw shrimp in the coldest part of the refrigerator overnight. You can thaw shrimp more quickly under cold water. Never use warm water or the microwave

Rinse thawed shrimp in cold water

Peel by pinching the legs off first, then peeling the shell.

Rinse thoroughly

Remove the vein by cutting a thin slice next to the vein along the length of the shrimp, then dig it out with a paring knife

To cook frozen raw shrimp, use one of these popular methods:

 

1. Poaching. Poaching shrimp will help it keep its flavor better than boiling it. To poach, place shrimp in a liquid that has not quite reached its boiling point. Sautee for 3-5 minute or until it has turned a delicate pink.

2. Sautéing. Place shrimp in hot butter or other liquid, turning several times over a 2-3 minute time period.

3. Grilling. Place thawed shrimp on skewers and heat over high grill temperature for several minutes. The shrimp will look pink when they are done.

4. Frying. There are two ways to fry shrimp: breaded or unbreaded. Either is tasty. For breaded shrimp
simply bread in batter and fry in a pan of hot oil. For unbreaded shrimp simply stir-fry in about a half inch of oil on the boom of a frying pan until done.

The next time you need a large batch of shrimp to serve guests don’t pay a small fortune for precooked ones. Now that you know how to cook raw frozen shrimp several ways you can save a bundle by buying uncooked ones and preparing them yourself.

How Much Does Food Cost

A trip to the grocery store these days can cost a small fortune, especially for families with children. While prices continue to escalate all over the country, many people are left wondering, how much does food costs for the average family? It has been estimated that the average family of 5 spends approximately $200 a week on food. Of course some people have tighter budgets, and others are bigger spendthrifts’, so the answer to how much does food cost these days really does depend on what you buy and how carefully you budget your grocery dollars.

How to Cook Shrimp Scampi

Shrimp scampi isn’t just a delicious meal, it is easy to make. Don’t know how to cook shrimp scampi, you say? No problem! Here is a great recipe for learning how to whip up a delicious shrimp scampi meal in just 5 minutes:

Take 13 cup of your favorite Italian dressing and place in a deep bowl

 

Add 1 lb. Of uncooked shrimp

 

Marinate shrimp for at least one hour in the refrigerator

 

Toss mixture into a hot skillet and stir-fry for about 5-8 minutes or broil in the oven for about 10 minutes (turning often). Feel free to continue basting broiled version for even more flavor.

Serve alone or over cooked pasta

For another tasty variety follow these simple directions for how to cook shrimp scampi:• 

Place shrimp in s shallow casserole dish of melted butter

 

Dribble shrimp with white wine to taste

 

Sprinkle with garlic and breadcrumbs

 

Bake in a 400 degree oven for 15-18 minutes. The breadcrumbs should be a golden brown when ready to eat.

 

An easy (and quick) recipe to try, learning how to cook shrimp scampi is a great way to add some variety to your diet without a lot of work.

Jar Recipes for Gift Giving

In recent years, jar recipes for gift giving during the holiday season have been growing in popularity. There are all kinds of jar mixes available ranging from hot, spiced tea mixes for tea lovers to cake or cookie mixes in a jar. Hot chocolate jar mixes are another seasonal favorite, and are easy to put together. You can even concoct jar mixes for a variety of soup and side dish recipes. This is one gift that busy friends, neighbors and co-workers are likely to appreciate.

You can prepare your own homemade mixes in quick easy steps and at a fraction of the cost you would pay for store bought jar recipes. For most recipes you will need a quart-size canning jar with lid. Assemble the basic ingredients needed to prepare the recipe. Layer dry ingredients inside the jar in the order in which they should be added. Or, you may choose to layer ingredients to be visually appealing.

Write out step-by-step instructions on a recipe card and use it as a gift tag. Decorate the jars with colorful ribbon, hand crocheted doilies, dishcloths, raffia or scraps of fabric. Keep in mind that an attractive presentation is part of the gift. Depending on the recipe, you might want to attach a small whisk, wooden spoon, cookie cutter or anything else that applies. Don’t be afraid to use your imagination. It’s also a nice touch to send along a sample of the recipe already prepared.

Homemade Sweet Treats for Stocking Stuffers

Homemade sweet treats for stocking stuffers not only taste yummy, they can be a fun project for the whole family to make.

For homemade peanut butter fudge, melt 1/2 cup butter or margarine, 2 lbs. powdered sugar, and 1 can evaporated milk in a heavy saucepan over medium heat for about 5 minutes. Remove from stovetop and stir in a 7 oz. jar of marshmallow cr?me and 1 cup crunchy peanut butter. Chocolate peppermint, cherry almond, and chocolate nut fudge are tasty variations that give this sweet treat a holiday flair.

Chocolate raisin truffles are lower in fat, as well as easy and inexpensive to make. Melt 1 cup milk chocolate chips in the microwave. Mix with 2 tablespoons powdered sugar, 1/4 cup light corn syrup, and 1-1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract. Add 1-1/2 cup of chopped raisins. Roll rounded teaspoonfuls into balls. Decorate with crushed nuts, colored sugar sprinkles or chocolate jimmies. Place balls onto a parchment lined baking sheet and refrigerate until firm.

Molasses taffy is another lip-smacking treat that is simple to make. Bring 2 cups each of molasses and sugar, 2 tablespoons butter and 1-tablespoon vinegar to a rapid boil. When the candy reaches 280 degrees F, add 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract. You may choose to add several drops of peppermint extract instead to give taffy a cool, mint flavor. Pour into a buttered 13×9 inch cake pan. Once the candy cools enough to handle, pull until the taffy is lighter in color.

How to Cook Pork Spare Ribs on the Grill

                      How to Cook Pork Spare Ribs on the Grill



No one can resist a plate of pork spare ribs straight from the grill. With flavors ranging from sweet to spicy, ribs are a specialty to be devoured. The key to learning how to cook pork spare ribs that everyone will love is following these 4 basic rules:

Take the time to perfect your marinating sauce. Any grill master will tell you that learning how to cook pork spare ribs that everyone will love take a fantastic sauce. Ditch the premade stuff from the grocery store. 

 Try whipping up a batch of your own instead. It may take a little time (and lots of practice), but the result is well worth the effort.
 

Marinate those ribs as long as possible. Once you have perfected your marinate sauce, you will want to give the meat a chance to really soak in its flavor. This takes about 24 hours. While a shorter marinate time will not ruin your ribs; the longer marinate the better for the most flavor.

 

Cover your grill rack with aluminum foil (which you lightly oil) to keep the meat from sticking

 

Cook for about 10 minutes on each side on a medium heat.

 

Cooking up a great plate of ribs isn’t difficult. All you really need is to take some time to learn how to cook pork spare ribs on the grill for a meal no one can resist.

         How Did Chocolate Bunnies for Easter Come About

What Easter basket doesn’t include a chocolate bunny? A mainstay in traditional Easter baskets, have you ever wondered just how did the chocolate bunnies for Easter come about? Well, you are about to find out!

The tradition of giving a chocolate Easter bunny began in Germany several hundred years ago, and was quickly adopted by Christians worldwide as the symbol of the young bunny was used to symbolize spring and then became linked with the Easter holiday.

Although the original chocolate bunnies were rather plain, today’s variations offer an abundant selection including chocolate, white chocolate, large, small and everything in between.

How Long Do I Cook Pork Chops on the Grill

There’s no need to wonder, how long do I cook pork chops on the grill, ever again. Here’s the answer: For 2-3 pounds of pork chops grilled over a medium heat, be sure to cook them about an hour for rare chops; an hour and a half for medium ones and as long as two hours for well done grilled chops.

Of course, answering the question, how long do I cook pork chops on the grill does depend on the amount of chops you are grilling; how thick your chops are and of course how high the heat.

How Do I Grill Corn on the Cob

Grilling corn on the cob can be a bit tricky, unless you know the tricks to getting it right. So, if you have ever wondered how do I grill corn on the cob, follow these directions for cooking a perfect meal:

• remove silk from ear
• leave husk on each ear
• soak in a pan of water for 15-20 minutes
• place on a low to medium heat grill for up to one hour
• turn periodically to keep one side from getting scorched
• remove when outside husks have appear black and burned

How Long Do You Grill Asparagus

Grilling asparagus isn’t just quick and easy; it is fast too! For perfect crispness, grill your spears for 3-5 minutes on medium heat. For best results, place your asparagus on the grill after taking your meat off the grill. This will give your meat time to settle in its own juices and allow you to serve fresh hot asparagus right off the grill.

How Many People Eat Fast Food

Drive by any fast food restaurant at mealtime and you will see cars lining up in front of the drive through. Has that sight ever made you wonder just how many people eat fast food every day? It has been estimated that more than 50 million Americans eat fast food on a regular basis—spending more than 110 billion dollars every year on these quick takeout meals.

How Long Can a Person Live Without Food

We’ve all heard unbelievable stories of people trapped in natural disasters for days or even weeks with no food, yet they miraculously survived, which leaves many of us to wonder, how long can a person live without food? Well that depends on several factors: whether there is water available to drink; if the person is underweight, overweight or of normal weight; if they have other health problems (ie: chronic diabetes), etc. Still according to the experts, the average person who is in good health can actually survive more than a month without food, as long as they have water to drink.

How to Cook Beef Ribs Like the Pros

If you have tried and failed to make mouth-watering ribs in the past, relax. You are about to learn how to cook beef ribs like a pro.

Those who know how to make a lip-smacking rib may try to convince you that there is a big secret to their success, but there really isn’t. Learning how to cook beef ribs like an expert really only requires one thing: patience. Here are a few tips to get you started:

Precook your meat. Slow cooking is what makes meat tender – especially ribs. Although some people prefer to boil their ribs before grilling them; the way to make them extra tender and juicy is to cook them in a low-heat oven of about 200 degrees for 4-5 hours before grilling them.

 

Coat your ribs with your favorite barbeque sauce. There are literally thousands of variations of BBQ sauce that can be used on ribs, and finding your own winning recipe will take some time. But once you have perfected your rib sauce, be sure to coat the meat thoroughly on one side.

 

The best way to keep your ribs from falling off the bone before you want it to is to continually coating and flipping the meat during the grilling process. This helps to caramelize the sauce and keep the rib together until it is time to eat.

 

Now you know how to cook beef ribs like a pro. So, get grilling!

How to Bake Pork Ribs

For mouth watering fall off the bone ribs, try baking them. All you need is a hot oven and a little time. Not sure how to bake pork ribs? Here are a few simple steps to make the job easy:

• Preheat your oven to 250 degrees
• Place ribs in a shallow baking pan (do not overlap)
• Season to taste
• Cover
• Set in center of oven
• Cook for 2-3 hours.
• Slather with your favorite barbecue sauce and put back in oven for another hour
• When temperature of ribs reaches a minimum of 155 degrees, remove from oven and let sit five minutes before serving

Simple Tips on How to Cook Pork Ribs in a Slow Cooker

Don’t have time to pull out the grill; mix up a specialty rib sauce and spend hours preparing mouth-watering ribs? You don’t have to! Want a quick and easy way to prepare pork ribs that taste great? Follow these simple tips on how to cook pork ribs in a slow cooker:

Choose your ribs carefully. Not all pork ribs cook well in a slow cooker. Fatty ones will get way too greasy. But ones that are too lean will not have the rich flavor they should. Look for ribs with a little bit of fat on them (but not too much).

 

Place your ribs in a slow cooker at the lowest temperature with about 1 cup of chicken broth for 3-4 hours.

 

Next, mix your other ingredients including seasonings to taste and all of your vegetables, and put them in with your ribs. Let this mixture stew for another 3-4 hours on low heat.

 

A simple and easy way to learn how to cook pork ribs in a slow cooker, this recipe is a favorite among busy folks who don’t have the time or energy to cook pork ribs in a more traditional and time consuming way.

How Long Do You Bake Chicken

One of the simplest ways to prepare chicken, baking seems to confuse many cooks as they wonder how long do you bake chicken for? Luckily, the answer to that basic question is an easy one to answer: a whole chicken takes between 1 ½ to 2 hours in a 350 degree oven; while cut pieces take about 45-60 minutes. Of course, boneless chicken breasts may take as little as 15 minutes, depending on their size.

How Long to Bake BBQ Chicken

If you are wondering how long to bake BBQ chicken, here’s a quick and easy answer: about 7-9 minutes in a 500 degree oven. Of course, larger pieces of chicken may take a bit longer (and smaller ones only 5-7 minutes), so be sure to check the chicken’s internal temperature before serving. It should be at least 160 degrees.

How To Cook Rice

Knowing how to cook rice so that it comes out light and fluffy can take a bit of skill. Begin by rinsing the rice in water before cooking. This removes excess starch and helps to prevent the rice from sticking.

How long to cook the rice is often a common question asked by many cooks. Add 2 cups of water to the pan for every cup of rice. Bring rice to a boil. Cooking time will vary depending on the kind of rice you are preparing. Brown rice requires about twice the cooking time than white rice does, although long grain rice is a popular healthy choice these days. Turn the stove to low heat and put the lid on tight. Simmer rice for another 15 to 30 minutes. After removing the pan from the heat, keep the lid on for another 5 minutes so that the rice can absorb any remaining water. Use a fork to fluff the rice and then serve.

Some alternatives for adding more flavor to rice is to cook the rice in broth instead of water. You can also cook rice in one-part water and one-part apple juice or tomato juice. If you are looking for a more delicate flavor, stir in just a pinch of nutmeg or add a cinnamon stick to the water as you cook the rice.

Squid and Cuttelfish

The squid , Loligo formosana , called pla meuk kluai , in Thai, has a tubular body with fins at one end and tentacles at the other. The body is covered with a thin skin flecked with red . After washing , this is removed and the tentacles and head are separated from the body . The clear bone and associated membrane , which are attached to the head , are discarded . Then , The eyes and ink sac are cut away , the hard beak  is removed , and the squid is washed again.   

Scoring Squid:
When the squid is to be baked , broiled , or fried , the body is scored by slicing a short way into the flesh with a sharp knife , lifting the blade , moving it a little to one side , making another slice parallel to the first , and continuing in this way until the whole surface has been so treated . A second series of  slices may be made at an angle to the first  to create a  criss – cross pattern . When the squid is to be cut into pieces , this may be done before scoring . The purpose of scoring is to increase the surface are of the squid , and in this way , increase the amount of flavorings that adhere to it , for the flesh does not absorb flavors well. 

Cuttlefish:        
The cuttlefish , Sepia pharonis , called pla meuk kradong , in Thai, has a flattened , broad , white body . After washing , the head and tentacles are slipped away from the body , the cuttlebone and the membranes around it are removed , and the preparation continues like that of the squid . It is customary to score it in a criss – cross pattern.     

 Jellyfish , maeng ka – phrun , in Thai , is sold in dried form . It is something of a specialty product , so go to one  of the bigger markets to look for it.

How to Cook Chicken on a Gas Grill

Anyone who has ever tried to cook chicken on a gas grill knows that it isn’t as easy as it may look. Oftentimes, the breast gets done well before the other parts of the chicken, leaving you with a meal that is half overcooked or half underdone. If you want to learn how to cook chicken on a gas grill to perfection, follow these simple tips:

• For the most flavorful chicken around, be sure to pre-rub it with a good mixture of herbs and seasonings including salt, pepper, garlic, onion, thyme and sage. Let sit in the refrigerator for several hours before cooking to allow the spices to permeate the meat.

• Preheat grill to medium heat.

• Begin grilling dark meat pieces first, since they will take longer to heat.

• Heat until the dark meat reaches 180 degrees and the breast reaches a temperature of 165 degrees.

• A few minutes before you are ready to take your chicken piece off of the grill, baste in a rich barbeque sauce (either store-bought or handmade). This will help to seal in the chicken’s natural juices and flavor.

• Let stand for a few minutes before serving.

• The trick to learning how to cook chicken on a gas grill is to use a medium heat and start those dark meat pieces cooking first. That will ensure that your entire meal gets finished at the same time.

How Do You Bake a Potato on a Gas Grill

Making baked potatoes on the grill is really easy and tasty too. If you have ever wondered how do you bake a potato on a gas grill, here are some simple steps to try:

• Wrap each potato individually in aluminum foil that has been smeared with olive oil, salt, pepper and other seasonings you like.
• Place the wrapped potatoes on your grill (not to close to any flames) for about 45 minutes on medium heat.
• To check to see if your potatoes are done, pierce them with a fork. If the fork slides into the meat of the potato easily, then they are ready to eat.

How Long to Grill Baked Potatoes

Making baked potatoes on the grill isn’t quick, but it sure is worth the time. If you are wondering how long to grill baked potatoes, remember that it depends on how large your potatoes are and how hot your grill is. But, most take 30-60 minutes.

How To Cook Turkey

 One of the things that cooks find the most difficult about cooking a turkey is how long to cook the turkey. A general rule of thumb is to roast a turkey in a 325 degree Fahrenheit oven for 20 minutes for each pound of meat. Whether preparing a fresh or frozen turkey that you have thawed, start by removing the giblets and neck. Rinse the internal cavity of the turkey with cold water. 

 

 

 

Do not use warm or hot water, as this creates an environment in which bacteria can grow. Season with salt and pepper. Salt not only adds flavor to the meat, it helps to keep the meat from drying out.

Stuff the bird lightly, and then place it breast side up in a roasting pan. Wait until you are ready to put the turkey in the oven for roasting before you stuff it. If you pack in the stuffing, the inside of the bird will not get hot enough. Brush the outside of the turkey with olive oil or melted butter. 

 

Use aluminum foil to make a loose tent over the turkey. Remove the foil during the last hour of roasting so that the skin browns to a golden color. The turkey is fully cooked when the internal temperature registers 185 degrees Fahrenheit and the juices run clear when piercing the thickest part of the thigh.

How To Cook Roast

Whose mouth doesn’t water at the thought of eating tender, succulent roast for dinner? Cooking roast requires seasoning the meat before browning to get the best flavor. Whether you choose a cut of rump, bottom round, top round, chuck or brisket, browning the meat on all sides before roasting caramelizes the sugar in the meat, improving the flavor.


Knowing how long to cook roast depends on the cooking method. Roasting time is generally based on 30 minutes for every pound of meat in a 350-degree oven. The meat will be well cooked on the outside but rare inside. If you don’t care for the taste of rare meat, use the same cooking time; however, leave the meat in the oven for another 30 minutes after turning off the heat.

Whether you choose to cook a roast on the stovetop, bake it in the oven, or slow cook it in a crock pot, adding vegetables to the pot can give you a complete meal. Cooking roast slowly at a low temperature while basting the meat with its own juices from the bottom of the pan will give you a more tender, moist pot roast. Rest the meat on a cake rack placed on top on a roasting pan filled with vegetables.

The vegetables will cook in the juices dripping from the meat. Allow the roast to stand for another 20 minutes after removing it from the oven before you carve the meat and serve.