DEAR HELOISE: I prepared a pickling brine (equal parts water, vinegar and salt) in a large stainless steel pot, and now the bottom of the pot seems to be permanently stained. I've tried repeatedly cleaning it with a scouring pad!
-- Ellen, via email
DEAR READER: Ellen, you might try pouring a small amount of vinegar into the pot (enough to cover the bottom), allowing it to sit in place for a few minutes. Next, pour in a little baking soda (about half a cup). It will bubble. Rub the mixture with a soft cloth in the direction of the steel's grain. If this doesn't affect the stain, you might try a stainless steel cleaner at your local store.
Here are some other hints:
• Never use an oven cleaner on stainless steel pots and pans.
• Don't use steel wool or any abrasive cleaners on stainless steel.
• Always clean stainless steel by rubbing in the direction of the steel's grain.
DEAR HELOISE: I have seen store clerks cut the tops off cartons of canned foods, stack the cartons and stand on them, with their dirty shoes, to reach the top shelf. Yuck!
-- Darlene V., via email
DEAR READER: It's always a good idea to give canned goods a rinse after you get home to prevent dirt and germs from getting into your food when you open the can.
DEAR HELOISE: Occasionally I buy a rotisserie chicken, which has been kept under heat lamps at the store. How long can I keep it on the counter before placing it in the refrigerator?
-- Sally, via email
DEAR READER: Never leave chicken sitting on the counter. When you get home, put the chicken into the refrigerator immediately to prevent bacteria from growing.
DEAR HELOISE: What is meant by the term "moist-heat cooking"? I'm a bachelor, and cooking is a mystery to me.
-- Dale R., Idaho
DEAR READER: "Moist-heat cooking" means braising, boiling, poaching, simmering, steaming and pressure-cooking foods. It's used on meats that need to be made more tender or that tend to be dry.
DEAR HELOISE: How many calories are contained in an average candy cane?
-- Annie C., Missouri
DEAR READER: There are 50 to 60 calories per candy cane, depending on size.
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
Food on 02/21/2018