Shot glasses may seem like unusual prep tools when cooking or baking, but
they are actually the perfect pinch bowls for ingredients. In my kitchen, they
are as essential as measuring spoons or mixers.
Not only are they glass and transparent, they have measurements printed on
them. Plus, they have a weighted base so they will not turn over. Due
to their small size, they are easy to stack & store. Shot glasses take
up very little space on the kitchen counter when working which allows you to
use as many as you need for individual ingredients.
Before I ever start to mix anything, I measure out all of the recipes
ingredients in separate measuring cups & shot glasses. The shot
glasses are great for holding small amounts of seasonings, spices, extracts,
or small amounts of liquid. I still use my
measuring spoons
to measure & level the seasonings, but you could use the shot glass
measurements on the side if you prefer.
By pre-measuring all of the recipe ingredients into separate shot glasses
& measuring cups, I don't forget any ingredients, or wonder if I have
already added a specific ingredient as I work. If the shot glass of salt is
still sitting on the counter, I know I haven't added it yet. Plus, I can
stir and mix everything together faster if I don't have to stop to measure
each ingredient as I go.
Shot Glasses Are Excellent Pinch Bowls
Shot GlassesCheck PriceShot glasses can be used for so much more than measuring alcohol. Because
they allow a clear view of contents and have the measurements printed on the
glass, they are great when cooking. I have 4 shot glasses in my kitchen
cabinet of baking supplies and I use them often.
In the introduction photo, I have the seasonings for manicotti pre-measured and ready to add as
needed.
Printed Measurements on the Shot Glasses
Teaspoons
Tablespoons
Ounces
Milliliters
Shot glasses are also dishwasher safe, therefore clean up is a lot
faster. I enjoy cooking & baking, but I hate washing bowls and
kitchen utensils.
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
Everyone knows that I have a passion for preserving old family recipes. These are recipes passed down from my grandmother, mother, and aunts. You can find these old family recipes along with some new ones on my blog, Sam's Places.
During grilling season here in Western NY I love cooking on my grill. I'm always looking for new ideas and recipes to try on the grill.
A few years ago I started to follow David Farrell's blog oldfatguy.ca. I quickly became a fan and very interested in David's recipes and methods of smoking meats.
At the time I didn't have a smoker, I had a gas grill. I really wanted to try one of David's methods. So I followed his method for his 3-2-1 Spareribs on my gas grill. I picked up some wood chips wrapped them in tinfoil then poked some holes in them.
I followed his method for seasoning, temperature to maintain, and cooking time. They were delicious and I was hooked.
The Old Fat Guy's Guide To Smoking Meat For Beginners
When his book came out I couldn't wait to buy it. I knew that I wanted a smoker but had no idea what type of smoker to buy. After reading the very first section of the book where David explains the benefits and downsides of every type of smoker. I decided that I wanted an offset smoker.
And, low and behold, for Father's Day my daughter bought me this Char-Griller offset smoker. Now I was all set.
I had the book and the smoker.
The next part of the book will explain all about accessories for your smoker. What you need from temperature control, cleaning your equipment, cooking utensils, types of wood for smoking, and much more.
Then, David tells us how to get your smoker ready no matter what smoker you have. There is a whole section dedicated to food safety. I found this to be very helpful with tips on cross-contamination, dangerous ingredients, and improper storage.
You will find classic recipes and methods along with appetizers, rubs, sauces, and marinades. Read about David's many successes and some of his failures along the way.
This is my go-to book along with David's blog whenever I'm preparing to smoke something. You'll find this book easy to read and non-technical. This is a perfect gift idea for not only beginners, but even the most experienced smokers will find useful information in this book.
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
Treasures from the Archives of Review This Reviews!
The one thing we all have in common is that we all must eat to survive. Beyond that one commonality, our choices greatly vary based on diet restrictions, ingredient availability, or simply on food preferences.
Whether the focus is breakfast, lunch or dinner, we have reviewed food for every mealtime of the day. Some of us prefer to start a meal with dessert, while others will mainly focus on protein, vegetables, fruit or fiber. There is something here for everyone! Since cookbooks are often a fabulous source of recipes, we frequently review cookbooks as well as individual recipes.
With over a dozen contributors, you are sure to find a new recipe, food, or cookbook recommendation reviewed on Review This Reviews that you will love. We even have drinks! Enjoy our smoothie recipes, plus, our tea and coffee reviews.
Small Appliances & More Reviewed
In addition to food itself, several of our contributors have tested and reviewed small appliances that help any cook prepare a delicious meal. Rice makers, air fryers, Instant Pots, food dehydrators, and more small appliance reviews can be found in our Home Appliances section. Why not make your life a little easier with the right appliance that takes some of the work out of cooking.
We may not eat together, but we can certainly enjoy the same delicious meal.
A Review This Pinterest Board - Recipes Reviewed
There are dozens of Recipes, Food, & Cookbooks
Reviewed
by our Contributors!
The board below features 30 of our most recent reviews.
Click through to Pinterest to see all of the Recipes that have been Reviewed by Review This Reviews Contributors!
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Ghar-Griller Smokin Champ Review: The Smokey Goodness of Grilling
Most people love the taste of smoked food. And, if you are one of those people you need a good quality smoker grill in your life. The Char-Griller Smokin Champ is one of the best affordable smoker grills for the market, and it's perfect if you love to cook with smoke.
This grill is designed to give food that perfect smokey flavor, and it will not disappoint you. The Smokin Champ will deliver consistent results with its even heat distribution and adjustable vents. Whether you're grilling, smoking, or even baking the Smokin Champ will help you get the perfect results every time.
In the photo above is my Smokin Champ just after we assembled it. My daughter got this for me four years ago for Father's Day and it's everything that I expected. This grill has served us well for the last four years and I expect many more.
My Char-Griller Smokin Champ is made of high-quality steel that lasts years. It has a large cooking area of 614 square inches with a warming rack of 315 square inches, making it easy to cook for a large group of people. Or, it's just as convenient to cook for two people as most time it's just me and Fran grilling some burgers and veggies.
Features of my Smokin Champ:
Large cooking area
Warming rack
3 cast iron cooking grates
Side firebox
Easy slide-out drawer to clean the firebox
Built-in thermometer to monitor the temperature
Side shelf for utensils
Ashpan with hangers for charcoal grilling
This is a photo of the firebox, it is also made of heavy-duty steel with a drawer that pulls out for easy cleaning. The firebox is separate from the main chamber making it easy to add wood or charcoal without losing heat in the main chamber.
My smoker is known as an offset smoker. There are many other types of smokers on the market. But, I prefer the offset smoker, it takes a little time to learn how to control the temperature, so there is a little skill involved. Once you have mastered it you will be very happy with the results of the food you cook.
Overall, Char-Griller Smokers are an excellent and affordable choice for anyone who just loves to cook with smoke. Or, if you don't want to use the smoker you have the option to just grill over charcoal. It's perfect for backyard barbecues and family gatherings. This smoker and grill has served our family well over the last four years and I'm looking forward to this year's grilling season. Every grill master in the family needs a fun apron. Check out my article on Funny Grill Master Aprons.
Here is a link to some of my favorite grilling and smoking recipes:
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
Grilling Something on the barbecue? Put on an apron first! It is summertime and the living is easy. Great weather, good music and your trusty friend, the barbecue, will help you prepare good food but before you throw your meat on the grill you might want to throw on a fun, spirited and practical grilling-themed apron. Here I review six. That is, six sizzlin' hot BBQ aprons. Six of the best. 'Cause only the best will do for you!
GRILL MASTER APRON
This grilling apron by Attitude Apron is a one-size-fits-all (which is usually the case) apron made of a polyester blend perfect for cooking and grilling. One reviewer said, "We gave this and a grilling cookbook as a gift to my father-in-law and he loved it! The apron is just as pictured and was a perfect fit for my 5'9" father-in-law." Find the Grill Master apron here on Amazon.
REAL MEN DON'T USE RECIPES
This Real Men Don't Use Recipes apron is another one-size-fits-all apron. It is made in the United States from a polyester blend, perfect for cooking and grilling. Perfect for any man who likes to ad-lib as he cooks. Find the Real Men apron here on Amazon.
A MAN AND HIS GRILL
This a man and his grill BBQ apron is a 65 percent polyester, 35 percent cotton blend and features an adjustable neck and back ties. Just throw it in the washing machine after those big grilling events! "We bought this for my brother in law's birthday (along with grill utensils) and he loved it." Find the A Man and His Grill apron on Amazon here.
BOSS OF THE BBQ
This Boss of the BBQ - Smokin' Hot and So Is My Grill apron, is yet another black, one-size-fits-most apron that will delight any man who is in charge of the BBQ...or who is just plain hot, LOL. Find the Boss of the BBQ apron here on Amazon.
WHO REALLY IS THE KING OF THE GRILL?
This video will leave you smiling. It captures barbecuing stereotypes, whether they are true at your house or not. At our house, my husband cannot take a book out with him when he tends the grill because that only leads to disaster. The lesson we have learned the hard way is don't get between a Little and his or her reading material even if food is involved.
KING OF THE GRILL
Do You Know Someone Who Is The King of the Grill?
They should definitely have their own King of the Grill Apron! Also made of a polyester blend, it is perfect for all of the king's cooking and grilling! This is an apron with attitude, making grilling even more fun! Order your King of the Grill apron from Amazon here.
Are you loving your barbecue? How about these barbecue aprons? And for interest sake, who Is The King of the Grill At YOUR House?
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
I have always enjoyed cooking, but there are times when it is more of a job than a joy. Having the right tools in any endeavor can make a world of difference in the overall experience. It was truly shocking for me to discover how much these particular measuring spoons improved my attitude. I had not previously realized how much I was struggling with my older measuring spoons.
I am no longer a spring chicken, but I embrace my age and appreciate the good things about being at retirement age. Still, there are a few things I miss when cooking. I can't read small numbers without reading glasses or a magnifying glass. My hands are not as steady as they once were. I have aches and pains from standing too long now. Plus, I seem to get annoyed by insignificant stuff more easily. The latter issue is most likely a result of the previous 3 issues. I hate not being able to easy sail through the preparation of a recipe or meal.
Lest you think I am complaining, I am not. I recognize these are simple inconveniences, not problems. I am only explaining in advance why the measuring spoons matter.
Stainless Steel Stackable Magnetic Measuring Spoons - Set of 6
There are many reasons why I love these measuring spoons and think everyone should have a set. Whether you cook often or only occasionally, you will want the best measuring utensils available. These are the best measuring spoons and here is why:
Easy to Read Labels - large white print on black background
Sits Level & Flat on the Counter - no need to hold when measuring out ingredients
Magnet holds Set Together for Easily Finding Nested Set in Utensil Drawer
Elongated End that Fits in Small Jars
Rounded End for Liquids
Stainless Steel makes them durable
Dishwasher Safe or Quick to Wash by Hand
Inexpensive enough to own multiple sets or give as gifts
Because I have found these measuring spoons make such a huge difference for me, I own two sets. Being able to see the measurement labels without the aid of reading glasses, plus not having to hold the measuring spoon in one hand, while I pour ingredients with the other hand, makes the task extremely easy.
As incredible as it may sound, these measuring spoons make me feel like a spring chicken in my kitchen again. Attitude affects the whole process!
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
From observation of children at play, it is easy to see that kids love to
imitate the grown-ups in their lives. Thus, it is easy to see why toy
manufacturers create toys that replicate a small version of the full-sized
items adults use in their daily lives.
In the summer, two of the things parents and other adults plan and do are
picnics and backyard grilling. To that end, I thought it would be fun to
find some mini versions of these summer-themed items.
My Little Picnic Playset
For the tiniest of tots, this 5-piece playset in plush is perfect for
babies and small children. The fun and friendly play food, including buttered
toast, soft toy cherries, a rattling avocado and a toy grape juice that makes
a sound, fit inside a cute soft picnic basket that baby can carry
around.
Manufactured by Baby Gund, a leader in excellent children's toys, this play
set will keep baby engaged in sensory play while encouraging exploration and
helping develop their dexterity.
So when mom & dad are setting up the picnic table for a family picnic,
the youngest family member can enjoy being included with their very own soft
picnic playset.
One of the cutest toys I've seen in years, this BBQ Grill for kid's play
is perfect for 'little cooks' who want to copy dad doing his backyard or
camping grilling.
This particular BBQ grill is interactive, bringing realistic features to a
child's grilling experience. There is realistic smoke and sound functions
for fun pretend play. This 18-piece set comes with grilling utensils and
plates, plus a variety of food items. To add to the realistic look, the food
changes color as it switches from 'raw' to 'cooked'.
A fun toy grill that sparks a love for cooking and outdoor fun for a
complete pretend play experience.
So, for a fun summertime playtime for your children, check out these picnic
and BBQ grill playsets. Children really enjoy doing just what the adults
around them do. It's more than playtime; it's a learning experience.
*Summertime Toys for Tots Review written by Wednesday Elf
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
Carrot Cake Cupcakes are a delicious treat anytime!
My mother recently made 2 dozen carrot cake cupcakes using the recipe
below. She was generous and thoughtful enough to share them with me
and my household. I was beyond thrilled to receive this gift. I
understand the time commitment and work behind making a few dozen cupcakes.
Therefore, I can really appreciate receiving a dozen homemade
cupcakes.
Cupcakes are a personal favorite since they are made in single serving
portions. That saves serving preparation and clean-up. You can grab a
cupcake, toss the paper liner, and eat it without needing to get out a plate
or utensils. So fast & easy!
The carrot cake cupcakes are fabulous for breakfast, a special treat, or
dessert. For 3 days straight, I was able to enjoy a carrot cake
cupcake with my coffee for breakfast. I was rather sad when they were
all gone. But, I have the recipe! And, I am willing to share it
with you so you too can start your day with delicious carrot cake.
Carrot Cake Cupcakes Recipe -
Yields 36 cupcakes
Cupcake Ingredients:
2 c. shredded julienne carrots
2 c. granulated sugar
1 c. canola oil
4 large eggs
1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained
2 c. all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
2 tsp ground cinnamon
Frosting Ingredients:
1/2 c. unsalted butter (softened)
8 oz cream cheese (softened)
4 c. powdered sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
3/4 c. chopped pecans
________________________________________
Instructions for Cupcakes
1. Grate carrots & chop pecans
2. Preheat oven to 350°
3. Line large cupcake pans with cupcake liners (3 pans of 12 each)
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine sugar, oil, and eggs. Beat until
well-blended.
5. Add flour, baking soda, baking powder and cinnamon. Beat for about 2 to 3
minutes.
6. (Set aside your mixer) Stir in shredded carrots & pineapple.
7. Fill cupcake tins 3/4 full and bake for approximately 22 - 24 minutes
(toothpick test)
8. Set cupcakes on cooking racks and allow to cool completely before
frosting
9. While the cupcakes are cooling, set out the butter and cream cheese to
soften (about 30 minutes) Instructions for Frosting
1. Beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
2. Add vanilla and powdered sugar. Beat until well blended. (Approximately 4
minutes)
3. Stir in chopped pecans (or hold them to sprinkle on top of frosted
cupcakes)
4. Frost the Cupcakes
Recipe Substitutions or Additions
I prefer pineapple, but Mom suggests substituting raisins if desired. You
may also want to add 1 cup shredded coconut for a more authentic carrot cake
consistency & taste.
Baking Notes
I have a double oven, one is a convection oven. My ovens allow me to bake 3
pans of cupcakes at one time. (2 in the convection oven & one in the
lower regular oven).
Mom has one regular oven. Therefore, she makes larger cupcakes divided
across two pans, which she bakes separately. Her yield is 24 larger cupcakes
that take slightly longer to bake (approximately 26 - 28
minutes).
Because oven temperatures vary, the toothpick test is required to determine
when they are completely baked.
What is the Toothpick Test?
Quickly stick a toothpick down into the center of a cupcake or cake and pull
it right back out. If it comes out clean, the cake/cupcake is done. If it
has batter on it, you need to bake a little longer. I usually test in 1 – 2
minute intervals.
Cupcake Baking Needs
There are a few kitchen tools that allow us to bake cupcakes with ease,
starting with a large cupcake baking pan & cupcake liners.
Cupcakes are also very hard to transport from place to place. If you
do plan to take them elsewhere, I highly recommend the carrier featured
below.
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
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