Co-op Quick Tips
Leaves fall, the air cools, and thoughts turn to the harvest, comfort foods, and more time enjoyed in the kitchen. Co-op staff share some of their favorite tips for the season.
Find more great tips at viroquafood.coop/quicktips
Brine Meats
Make a tenderizing brine for any meat with 1 quart of clean water, 1/4 cup salt, 2 tablespoons sugar.
Add: chopped garlic, thyme, ground mustard, ground peppercorns, citrus rind, etc. Soak refrigerated in a covered glass container for up to 8 hours. Drain and rinse meat then cook as you wish.
Preserve Fresh Herbs with Compound Butters
Whip up room temperature butter, a little salt, and fresh chopped herbs, edible flowers, onions, garlic, etc. Use with meats, sauces, and pastas. Roll in parchment paper and chill or freeze to use later in the year.
Clean or Replace Range Hood Filters
Doing this twice a year will make your kitchen safer and better-smelling. If your kitchen gets a lot of use, consider once every season, or even every month, for a high-use kitchen.
Soak Dried Beans Before Cooking
Sort beans to remove any rocks, sticks, other non-bean materials. Rinse in a colander, soak in water up to 8 hours, or overnight, and rinse again. Cover with fresh water and cook as desired. Cooking time will be shortened.
