Don’t be intimidated by the idea of making crêpes—they’re every bit as easy as pancakes once you get the rhythm. With just a few simple ingredients and a swirl of the pan, you can create delicate, paper-thin crêpes ready to fill with anything from berries and cream to savory mushrooms and cheese. Once you’ve mastered...Read More

If you haven’t tried baking with olive oil yet, you’re in for a treat! Replacing the traditional vegetable oil or butter in cakes, muffins, or brownies with olive oil not only adds a subtle richness but also provides important health benefits. By using olive oil instead of butter, you reduce saturated fat and replace it...Read More

There’s nothing like a stack of warm, fluffy pancakes to start the morning — but on a busy weekday, measuring and mixing from scratch can feel like a luxury. Having your own homemade pancake mix ready to go turns those weekend-style breakfasts into an easy everyday treat. Unlike store-bought mixes, this one uses just a...Read More

If you have questions about canning ingredients, tools, or resources, send us an email and we will be happy to answer your questions! Q:  Are liquid pectin and powdered pectin interchangeable?A:  No. Use exactly what your recipe specifies. Q:  How long is pectin shelf stable?A:  Pectin (both powdered and liquid) should be used the year...Read More

Vibrant, aromatic, and impossibly fresh, this cilantro oil is a simple way to elevate everyday dishes. Drizzle it over grilled fish or roasted chicken, swirl it into a deconstructed salsa, or use it to turn sautéed summer squash into something restaurant-worthy. The bright green color and herbaceous flavor capture the essence of summer—but because it’s...Read More

There are many different methods for making basil infused oil, but I find this one works really well. It produces a deeply colored and flavored oil that will last in the refrigerator for 3-5 days before the flavor begins to drop off. It can be frozen for a month or two without much loss of...Read More

Few foods say “Fall” quite like roasted chestnuts. Their nutty sweetness and soft, comforting texture make them perfect for snacking on a chilly evening or adding to festive dishes. While cracking into chestnuts takes a little effort, the aroma that fills your kitchen and the warm, tender bites are well worth it. With just a...Read More

Dried beans are a cornerstone of every well-stocked pantry. Nutritious, inexpensive, and incredibly versatile, they can be transformed into soups, stews, salads, dips, and side dishes. While cooking with dry beans requires a little planning, the results are far superior to canned beans in both taste and texture. Here are some essential tips and techniques...Read More

Baking mixes are a handy pantry staple for quick biscuits, pancakes, or waffles—but store-bought versions can be pricey. With just a few basic ingredients, you can make your own bulk baking mix at home for a fraction of the cost. This homemade version is foolproof, budget-friendly, and perfect for busy weekday breakfasts. INGREDIENTS: 8 cups...Read More

Peeling and cutting thick, tough-skinned winter squashes can be a real challenge—even for experienced cooks! Here are some practical tips to make the process safer and easier: Removing the stem: Use the back of a sturdy knife or cleaver near the handle, or tap it with a mallet to knock the stem loose. Stabilize the...Read More