Chef Paul: Facebook, Answers to your questions
February 23 2011
Today I will try to answer recent questions that were submitted to me on our facebook page.
- How to keep bread fresh:
We buy local artisanal bread from our farmer’s market and the best way to preserve it, we’ve found, is to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. We usually buy about 3 loaves for the week and wrap them all up and then put two in the freezer (oh boy…here he goes on about his freezer again!). I always try to stay ahead of the game and take a loaf out just as we’re finishing one up. That way I don’t have to defrost it in the oven (which tends to make it too crusty). The bread we buy is from a wonderful French bakery that makes all organic breads…they also have the best croissants and pain-au-chocolat around!
- We were also asked how to get kids involved in the kitchen without endangering them.
While it’s true that kitchens have a lot of things that can harm an adult let alone a child: from heat, hot oil, knives and even can lids; I think you still need to get your kids involved. The best and only solution is to work with them. Start by showing them very basic things such as how a knife works (which is the sharp side), how a peeler works etc. They will slowly build confidence and want to do things on their own in no time. We’ve found the best way to get our little one involved is by doing simple tasks such as putting the toppings on the pizza, or mixing the flour and other ingredients for muffins or cookies. Easy, not too dangerous tasks such as those will make both the parents and the child more comfortable in the kitchen.
- How do I stop oil from splashing out of the pan?
Oil splashing out of pans is a result of moisture hitting a hot oil. You’ll never be able to completely eliminate splashes from the pan but the best way to reduce the amount of splashing is to dry off any moist ingredients before adding them to the pan. Use paper towel to pat dry any meat, fish or tofu. When it comes to items that have been marinating, place them in the pan gently, try not to drop them from a height…and stand back. As for bacon…well, make sure you’re wearing a shirt.
If you have any other questions about tips, tricks or techniques please post them on our Facebook page, comment here on the blog or contact us via the chat option on our home page. I look forward to hearing from you.
