2023-09-26 16:57
Brown soup: why is it happening, how to avoid it, and what, if anything, can you do about it?
Picture it: You’re working over a hot stove, the soup steaming in your kitchen, and… Read More
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Home Cook World Blog
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Home Cook World is a food blog for folks who like to cook and eat at home. We create honest, useful, and entertaining content for home cooks, with a focus on cooking tips, how-to’s, recipes, and equipment.
2023-09-25 17:14
Baking a loaf of bread shouldn’t be rocket science. As long as you know why it’s burning, that is.
You’ve mixed your bread dough and followed the procedure to the le… Read More
2023-09-25 01:05
By the numbers: everything you need to know about Barilla’s pasta shapes and how to use them in your home cooking.
If you regularly stock up on Barilla pasta, like I do, there&r&hell…Read More
2023-09-18 13:07
Proofing dough in the fridge makes it easier to work with and gives it a deeper flavor. Here’s how to do it.
Most recipes for bread and pizza crust call for proofing the dough a… Read More
2023-09-17 23:55
Extra, extra, read all about it! These cooking oils are the secret to super-crispy fries.
The type of potatoes, cooking method, and oil used all have a role to play in making french f… Read More
2023-09-15 22:24
Stringy bread: why is it happening, should it be happening, and what, if anything, can you do about it?
Your bread dough isn’t coming together into a ball. Instead, you have str… Read More
2023-09-14 12:20
Add flour to meat before cooking to help with the browning process. Not everyone agrees it’s necessary. Craig tests it out in the kitchen.
It might not seem logical (flour is fo… Read More
2023-09-13 11:51
Looking for a way to salvage overly spicy kimchi? These tips and tricks will help you get it back on track.
Kimchi, the fermented staple from Korea, is known for being fiery. Sometime… Read More
2023-09-11 21:49
Take your meatloaf to another level with our guide to the best binders and fillers.
So, you’re making meatloaf.
But you don’t want to make just any meatloaf. No, no, no… Read More
2023-09-11 12:42
Making a roux with animal fat or cooking oil are the options you didn’t know you had. Here’s how to get them right.
Roux—a cooked mixture of equal weights flour and… Read More
2023-09-10 17:46
A mushy meatloaf is a meatloaf leftover. If it happens to you, here’s how to avoid and salvage it.
You’re reading this, which means the meatloaf you just cooked turned out… Read More
2023-09-10 12:29
Risotto’s meant to be creamy, not sticky. Here’s why your risotto is sticking, and how to prevent it from turning out this way.
Maybe you’ve made risotto before and… Read More
2023-09-10 01:28
If you’re craving a creamy risotto but keep ending up with a crunchy mess, here’s how to turn it around.
Risotto is one of those dishes that seems simple, but can actually… Read More
2023-09-08 18:54
Is your risotto missing that rich, creamy flavor? Discover the top reasons behind a bland risotto and how to add a touch of flavor to your dish.
Risotto: the pinnacle of rice dishes… Read More
2023-09-07 22:46
A good pea soup should be homogenous, not separated. Let’s stir the pot rightly and serve up the fixes.
So, your pea soup’s separating. Instead of that golden yellow cream… Read More
2023-09-07 19:13
Lentil soup should be comforting, not grainy and gritty. Join us as we explore what causes this culinary mishap and how to prevent it.
You’ve just made a batch of lentil soup. M… Read More
2023-09-07 15:15
When your soup feels more like a stew, it’s time to thin things down. Let’s dish out the tips to get that perfect consistency. Soup. It seems like such a simple dish at first gla… Read More
2023-09-07 12:21
Ever wondered why water doesn’t dance to a rolling boil in the oven? Let’s break down the science behind this question to find out why. You might have noticed that when you place… Read More
2023-09-06 15:50
The heartbreak of torn bread has happened to all of us. Let’s sift through the causes and talk about how to prevent it. You’ve shaped the perfect sandwich loaf of bread dough. Al… Read More
2023-09-05 20:10
A bubbly gravy is sure to raise eyebrows in the kitchen. If you’re wondering what’s going on, we’ve written this guide to help. “Now that’s something new,&rdquo&hell…Read More
2023-09-05 17:23
Taste-testing your gravy only to make a face? If bitterness took over, let’s go over why and how to sweeten the deal. Ah, gravy! At first glance, this savory pan sauce appears deceptiv… Read More
2023-09-05 11:39
No bread lame in your drawer but eager to score your loaf? We’re kneading in some handy alternatives to help you out. There’s no tool more adept at scoring bread than the bread l… Read More
2023-09-04 22:58
Wondering why your gravy’s looking pale and light? Let’s go over the whys and show you how to give it a quick makeover. Some half an hour ago, you set out to make a rich, dark gr… Read More
2023-09-04 12:17
Stumped by the difference between jus, jus lié, and gravy? Let’s lift the lid and pour out the facts on this saucy subject. Jus, jus lié, and gravy: three sauces, one ori… Read More
2023-08-31 14:00
If your meatballs turned out more “Meh” than “Mamma Mia!,” we’ve got a few ideas on where things went wrong—and how to make it right. Meatballs. They look… Read More
2023-08-31 08:48
The battle of the breads: split-top versus round-top. Which one takes the cake? Let’s find out. I recently visited a renowned bakery and was in awe of all the beautiful breads on displ… Read More
2023-08-30 14:04
A copper frying pan will set you back $250-$300. Why is copper cookware so expensive? And is it worth the money? Here's all you need to know.
The post Copper Cookware: Pros, Cons, Need-to-Kn… Read More
2023-08-29 11:06
Are induction cooktops worth the higher price? I cooked on an induction cooktop for a week to find out. Here's the rundown.
The post Pros & Cons of Induction Cooktops—Are They Wort… Read More
2023-08-28 16:23
Added too much liquid to your recipe? Here are 5 ways to thicken sauces, soups, and stews in the slow cooker, even when they're really runny.
The post Thicken Any Slow-Cooker Dish: 6 Quick … Read More
2023-08-28 12:25
Butter in a cast iron skillet — sounds simple enough, right? Well, it’s not always a clear-cut “yes” or “no.” Here’s the full scoop. It’s hard… Read More
2023-08-28 09:06
A broken roux can leave any home cook in panic. But don’t toss it just yet—it’s easier than you think to turn it around. Chicken gumbo sounds like a perfect dinner. You&rsq&hell…Read More
2023-08-27 13:54
Stuck with sticky pasta again? We’ve got the tips and tricks you need to keep your pasta from sticking together or to the pot. Have you ever found yourself frustrated with a clump of p… Read More
2023-08-27 11:21
In a world of electric gadgets, can a manual Victorinox can opener still make the cut? We put it to the test to find out. I used to think of can openers as the simple and utilitarian tools t… Read More
2023-08-26 22:30
You see it in recipes, you taste it in dishes, but do you know the difference between browning and caramelization? If you’re into cooking, you’ve likely noticed that “brown… Read More
2023-08-26 15:10
IKEA isn’t just for furniture — they’ve got kitchen gadgets too. We put the Skärande knife sharpener to the test, and here’s our verdict. Sharpening knives used… Read More
2023-08-25 14:23
KitchenAid stand mixers too costly for your budget or simply not your thing? Here are some of the best alternatives you can buy today.
The post The Best Stand Mixers That Are Not KitchenAid… Read More
2023-08-23 17:47
Taking your induction cookware from stovetop to oven might be tempting for a one-pot meal. But is it safe? Let’s find out. Induction cookware, with its physics-laden principles, can se… Read More
2023-08-23 12:12
Thinking about trying Barilla’s Al Bronzo pasta? We gave it a test, and here’s what we think. It’s not every day that a top Italian pasta brand releases an entirely new lin… Read More
2023-08-22 23:09
Broth or stock? They may seem similar, but each brings its unique twist to the table. Find out which one you should be using. The culinary world is awash with terminology. Some terms are eas… Read More
2023-08-21 22:25
Can’t tell if that milk in your fridge is still good? Get the scoop on milk’s shelf life, along with some smart storage tips. So, you’ve got a jug of milk in your fridge. P… Read More
2023-08-21 16:46
Wish your meat had more flavor? We’ve all been there. Our guide to fixing bland meat will help you turn things around. Salt is a staple in every cook’s pantry for a reason—… Read More
2023-08-21 11:40
Some swear by blanching tomatoes for sauce, while others skip it altogether. So, what’s the deal? We’re breaking it down for you. Here’s a question for you: Do you blanch t… Read More
2023-08-20 18:08
The rule of thumb has always been to use plenty of water for pasta. But some are challenging this notion. Here’s why. It’s easy to think that the only way to cook pasta is in a l… Read More
2023-08-20 11:57
Found some old packets of dry yeast and wondering if it’s still active? Let’s talk about how to test it. You were cleaning out your pantry and found a few old packets of yeast. B… Read More
2023-08-19 22:42
Want to make your own smash burgers? From presses to heavy-duty spatulas, these are the right tools to help you get started. If you’ve been obsessing over smash burgers and want to try… Read More
2023-08-19 14:13
Wondering if that smelly fish is still okay for dinner? Don’t worry, we’ve got the full scoop on what’s going on. So you open the fridge, ready to whip up a quick fish dinn… Read More
2023-08-17 19:22
Found expired frozen food in the freezer and not sure if it’s safe to eat? Here’s everything you need to know. You were cleaning out your freezer and came across an old steak or… Read More
2023-08-17 12:32
Need to boil a liquid and wondering if you should put a lid on it? We’ve got you covered! Let’s figure it out. Cooking with the lid on or off is something that many TV chefs and… Read More
2023-08-17 10:06
Need to pan-fry a steak but don’t have butter? You’re in the right place. Let’s go over your other options. Okay, so you want to know if you can pan-fry a steak without usi… Read More
2023-08-16 22:44
Struggling with curdled mac and cheese? We’re here to help. Let’s go over the reasons and get you back to creamy goodness. There’s really nothing more disappointing than ha… Read More
2023-08-16 20:14
If you’ve ever been tempted to pop a plate in the oven, this guide is for you. Let’s see if it’s a yes or a no. Many of us prepare food ahead of time, keeping it warm until… Read More
2023-08-16 15:09
From spoons to cups: learn the story of the origins of America’s measuring system. So you want to know why recipes from American authors measure everything in cups and spoons, while el… Read More
2023-08-15 18:12
Got a recipe that says medium-high heat and not sure what that means? Let’s make sense of it. Have you ever wondered what TV chefs and cookbook authors mean when they say, “Conti… Read More
2023-08-15 09:11
Heating up the issue: Can cast iron cookware safely be used on electric stoves with coil tops? So you have an electric stove with coil burners and you’re thinking about buying a cast i… Read More
2023-08-14 12:00
Here's how to select the best pasta when you're at the grocery store—and which brands you can trust the most.
The post These Are Italy’s Best Pasta Brands: 10 Picks appeared firs… Read More
2023-08-14 09:45
Overdid the cornstarch? These steps will help you bring your dish back to balance and turn it from gluey to silky once more. Many home cooks rely on cornstarch as a thickener. But if you&rsq&hell…Read More
2023-08-14 09:20
Sweet, red, and pitted? From cocktails to desserts, understanding the pit situation in maraschino cherries. Maraschino cherries are the first thing that comes to mind when you think about th… Read More
2023-08-13 22:14
Storing leftovers safely: Let’s talk about the ins and outs of using disposable aluminum pans for storing food. So, you’ve used an aluminum foil pan to make a yummy casserole, on… Read More
2023-08-13 22:00
It’s time to separate myth from fact when it comes to olive pits: Find out the hard truth about olive pits and their safety. Sometimes, nothing sounds more heavenly than lying in front… Read More
2023-08-13 21:32
To wash or not to wash? Here’s what you need to know about cleaning aluminum pans before using them in the kitchen. Many of us don’t want to trouble ourselves with heavy baking p… Read More
2023-08-13 18:21
If you opened a carton of yogurt and there was a watery substance on top, don't worry. The yogurt is safe to eat. Here's why.
The post Why Is My Yogurt Watery? appeared first on Home Cook Wo… Read More
2023-08-13 16:49
Mozzarella, Parmigiano Reggiano, Pecorino Romano, Ricotta, Provolone, Gorgonzola... How to pair them well?
The post How to Pair Italian Cheese (Like an Italian) appeared first on Home Cook W… Read More
2023-08-13 15:31
Mixing raw chicken and raw beef: a safe move or a recipe for disaster? Here’s what you need to know before trying it. You’re thinking about mixing raw chicken and beef—perh… Read More
2023-08-13 11:53
Dreaming of that perfect, creamy cacio e pepe but keep getting clumps? Been there. Let’s figure it out together. So you cooked pasta cacio e pepe. You followed the recipe down to the T… Read More
2023-08-12 15:06
Uncork the best: here are wine choices for your pasta carbonara that you’re bound to love. So, you’ve decided to make our pasta carbonara recipe. You’ve purchased your guan… Read More
2023-08-11 17:20
To freeze or not to freeze: The tzatziki sauce dilemma. Here’s what to know before popping that tzatziki sauce in the freezer. Thinking about freezing that leftover tzatziki sauce, or… Read More
2023-08-11 13:45
Bitters storage 101: To chill or not to chill? Here’s where in your home to keep bitters, and how to store them properly. A good bitter can take your homemade cocktails to another leve… Read More
2023-08-10 13:52
Who said tasty pulled pork tacos are only for food trucks? Let’s bring them into your kitchen with this recipe! If you made pulled pork in your smoker or oven and have some leftovers… Read More
2023-08-09 23:02
Getting the perfect toasted bagel isn’t rocket science… or is it? Here’s what to know before dropping that bagel in your toaster. So you’re asking if you can toast a… Read More
2023-08-09 16:35
Can your favorite ceramic kitchenware go in the microwave? Here’s what you need to know before pressing “Start.” Kitchenware these days can be made from various materials… Read More
2023-08-09 13:49
Want to make your tacos pop? Try adding pickled red onions. Here’s the no-B.S. guide on how to make them. Let’s not kid ourselves: A pulled-pork taco isn’t a *real* pulled… Read More
2023-08-09 10:58
Found expired rice cakes in the back of your pantry? Here’s what you should know before putting them in your mouth. Rice cakes—while seemingly simple with their primary ingredien… Read More
2023-08-09 10:41
A quick and simple guide to reheating your soft pretzel at home or in the office—all the joy, none of the sogginess. Soft pretzels: They’re the best snack, whether you’re a… Read More
2023-08-08 12:34
From 20th-century Italian coal miners to your dinner plate: the rich history, and richer taste, of Pasta alla Carbonara. What’s not to love about a bowl of pasta carbonara? People say… Read More
2023-08-07 11:45
We took IKEA’s Sensuell frying pan for a spin in our test kitchen. Here’s what you need to know before you add it to your cart. I bought a 9-inch IKEA Sensuell stainless steel fr… Read More
2023-08-07 09:05
Griddle vs. skillet: Which one will make your meals tastier and easier to cook? Let’s break it down and help you figure it out. So you’re curious about the difference between a g… Read More
2023-08-06 21:42
Is the burger just a sandwich in disguise? From buns to patties to fillings, let’s compare everyone’s favorite fast foods. So you want to know about the difference between a burg… Read More
2023-08-06 16:11
Fishy-smelling mushrooms: Are they a culinary quirk or a cause for concern over food safety? Here’s the full scoop. So you opened your fridge to grab some mushrooms and—guess wha… Read More
2023-07-30 20:33
More than just hot air: How knowing your oven’s heat flow can help you step up your home cooking game. So you want to find out where the hottest spot is in your oven? That’s a gr… Read More
2023-07-30 15:21
Juicy, flavorful, skillet-seared pork chops made easy! Just salt, white pepper, and an hour of dry-brining. Making mouthwatering pork chops for dinner is really easy, and this recipe shows j… Read More
2023-07-30 13:15
Need a side dish that’s a breeze to prepare and delights every palate? Check out our oven-roasted carrots recipe! Some recipes are so easy and so tasty, you’d be missing out if y… Read More
2023-07-29 21:18
Leftovers in your skillet after frying chops or searing steak? Let’s turn them into an amazing pan sauce. Here’s the recipe. That brown residue left in your skillet after searing… Read More
2023-07-29 14:25
Did your carbon steel pan get rusty? You can fix it in just a few minutes using common kitchen items that everyone has. You were excited about cooking dinner until you opened the cabinet and… Read More
2023-07-28 17:39
Searing your steak: You know it needs to be done. But by the time you’re done reading, you’ll also know why and how to do it. “Now give your steak a good sear.” Celeb… Read More
2023-07-27 16:39
Is your favorite sausage actually red meat? Let’s look at the facts and settle this debate once and for all. So, you stumbled upon this article wondering if sausage, a.k.a. one of your… Read More
2023-07-27 09:42
Crispy bacon meets tender baby broccoli in a garlicky dance, wrapped in a tangy vinegar note. Dinner ready in 15 mins! The baby broccoli in this recipe is cooked to tender, with a subtle cri… Read More
2023-07-26 11:57
You’ll make these crispy French fries on repeat over, and over, and over again. Just don’t say we didn’t warn you! I could start by telling you how I used to watch my great… Read More
2023-07-25 20:36
Are you puzzled by the plume of smoke rising from your empty pan? Let’s crack this sizzling mystery wide open. You know that weird situation when you see smoke coming from an empty pan… Read More
2023-07-25 16:11
Found yourself with a batch of fresh salsa on your counter, questioning its fate? Should it stay or join the perishables in the fridge? There you are! You’ve just finished making a fre… Read More
2023-07-25 12:49
Wondering where the seaweed wraps in the grocery store are? We’ve written this guide to help you out. Making sushi or a poke bowl at home can be a fun and delicious culinary adventure… Read More
2023-07-25 11:54
Whether you’re making a traditional pork filling or something unique, you need gyoza wrappers. But where do you find them in the supermarket? Gyoza wrappers, also known as potsticker w… Read More
2023-07-25 11:43
Miso adds umami flavors to your soups, glazes, and dipping sauces. But where in the supermarket can you find it? Miso is a traditional Japanese seasoning made by fermenting soybeans with sal… Read More
2023-07-25 11:31
Crispy onions add a sweet crunch to your burgers, hot dogs, and salads. But where in the supermarket can you find them? Crispy onions, or fried onions, are thinly sliced onions that have bee… Read More
2023-07-25 11:17
Looking for sauerkraut in the grocery store? We’ve got the scoop on where to find it and how to select the best. Sauerkraut is basically cabbage that’s been finely chopped and fe… Read More
2023-07-25 10:35
Bouillon cubes pack a punch of flavor for your sauces, soups, and stews. But where do you find them in the supermarket? Discovering a simple ingredient to enhance your dishes can be exciting… Read More
2023-07-25 10:21
Hearts of palm are like spears of flavor for your salads, stir-fries, and appetizers. But where do you find them in the supermarket? Exploring new ingredients to revitalize your meals can be… Read More
2023-07-25 10:12
Capers are tiny flavor bombs for your salads, pastas, and pizzas. But where do you find them in the supermarket? Finding a fresh ingredient to jazz up your dishes can be thrilling, and caper… Read More
2023-07-25 09:59
Let’s navigate your local grocery store together and find the secret spots with the best sun-dried tomatoes. There’s something exciting about finding a new ingredient in a recipe… Read More
2023-07-24 22:56
Ever had a bad reaction to tuna? It might be a type of mild food poisoning—learn all about it in this article. If you feel sick after eating canned tuna, it could be due to scombroid p… Read More
2023-07-24 18:06
Puzzled over what to do with that remaining pot of minestrone soup on your stove? Is it okay to let it be, or should it hit the cold storage? So there you are! You’ve just simmered up… Read More
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