Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. People with celiac disease must avoid it strictly, as even small amounts damage the small intestine (NIDDK on celiac disease). Others avoid it because of non-celiac gluten sensitivity. If you suspect a problem, get tested before going gluten-free, since testing requires that you are still … Read more
Meatless meals do not have to be complicated or bland. The best everyday vegetarian and vegan dishes come from cuisines where they are traditional: Indian dals, Mexican bean dishes, Italian pastas, Middle Eastern mezze and East Asian tofu dishes. Weeknight ideas (vegan or easily made vegan) Vegetarian classics (with eggs or dairy) Make it satisfying … Read more
Pasta is simple, which is exactly why small details make a big difference. Most of them happen in the last two minutes of cooking. Cooking dried pasta The secret: pasta water and finishing in the pan Before draining, scoop out a cup of the cooking water. Then transfer the pasta, slightly underdone, directly into the … Read more
Healthy eating has a reputation for being expensive, mostly because of trendy superfoods and specialty products. The foundations of a healthy diet, such as beans, oats, rice, eggs, frozen vegetables and seasonal fruit, are among the cheapest foods in the store. The key is planning and cooking at home. Plan before you shop Cheap, nutritious … Read more
A large share of the food produced in the US is never eaten, and households are one of the biggest sources of that waste. The EPA has practical tips on preventing wasted food at home. Wasting less saves money and is also the simplest way to make your kitchen more sustainable. Plan before you shop … Read more
A few sauces turn plain chicken, pasta or vegetables into a meal. Most are built on simple techniques you can reuse endlessly. Classic French cooking lists five “mother sauces” (béchamel, velouté, espagnole, tomato and hollandaise), but a home cook mainly needs the families below. Tomato sauce Gently cook garlic in olive oil, add canned crushed … Read more
Homemade desserts do not have to be complicated. Some of the best are also the easiest, and making them yourself lets you control sugar and use seasonal fruit. Desserts for beginners Fruit crisp or crumble Toss sliced fruit (apples, pears, berries, peaches) with a little sugar and lemon, top with a mix of oats, flour, … Read more
Homemade drinks are cheaper than bottled ones, often healthier, and a nice way to use fruit and herbs. Most need just a pitcher and a fridge. Lemonade and fruit-ades Make a simple syrup by dissolving equal parts sugar and water over heat, let it cool, then mix about 1 part lemon juice, 1 part syrup … Read more
Fruit and vegetables taste best and are usually cheapest when they are in season. A tomato in August and a tomato in February are almost different foods. Cooking with the seasons is also a simple way to bring variety into your meals. Why it matters What is in season (in much of the US) Seasons … Read more
A well-stocked pantry is the difference between “there’s nothing to eat” and a good dinner in twenty minutes. The idea is to keep long-lasting basics that combine into many meals, then add fresh ingredients when you have them. A practical staples list Grains and starches: rice, pasta, oats, couscous or quinoa, flour, bread crumbs, tortillas … Read more
