DEAR READERS: Many times, a piece of glass bakeware may shatter, and it’s not very fun or safe to clean up. As we were talking in Heloise Central about the issue, it came up how many of us have never read the directions. Today’s glass bakeware is not the same as that of long ago. So here are a few hints for you to think about:
Don’t use bakeware if it is damaged in any way (chipped, scratched or cracked).
Don’t clean it with anything abrasive or use a metal brush to clean it with.
The oven should be at the temperature you are going to bake with.
Rapid changes in temperature (i.e., going from the oven and then placing the bakeware on a cold surface, countertop or metal trivet) are a no-no.
Don’t use it in a toaster oven.
Don’t buy glass bakeware at a thrift store or garage sale. You have no idea how it’s been handled, and it may be unsafe.
DEAR HELOISE: Can I freeze packages of cheese slices (like the cheese slices that are individually wrapped in plastic)? How about the little blocks of cheese that are wrapped in plastic? I am referring to unopened packages.- Paul A., via email
DEAR READER: Yes, you can freeze most cheese, including the slices and the blocks wrapped in plastic. Do put the cheese in a freezer-safe plastic bag or container first, though. The cheese may be more crumbly after it’s been frozen, but it is fine to eat.
DEAR HELOISE: Use a microwave-safe 2-cup measuring cup, fill it with about 3/4 cup water, then add a teaspoon of your favorite flavor to it (for example, vanilla, lemon extract, etc.). Microwave on high for a few minutes (until it boils), then shut off the microwave and let it sit for about 15 minutes.
The moisture from the steam will have softened all the cooked-on splatters, and the inside will wipe clean. Plus, the flavoring will put a nice aroma in your kitchen.
- Kathy C., via email
DEAR HELOISE: On a cleaning spree, I decided that my drawers needed reorganizing. I used cleaned cookie and cracker dividers from the packages to hold little things (like buttons and pins in my desk) and cut down cereal boxes to organize my socks in my dresser, and I am so happy.
- Helene, via email
Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or email [email protected]
Food, Pages 38 on 04/30/2014