Knife Sharpening – An introduction

7455433500_b2789a8f90_z

Knife sharpeningIn a perfect world we would all have time to spend 5-10 minutes everyday (or every week for home chefs) to sharpen our kitchen knives to a razor’s edge on a Japanese waterstone. This is in fact how the very best Japanese or French chefs finish their shifts – They sharpen their knives religiously

Continue Reading

Zuni Café zucchini pickles

41161532

Total time: 20 minutes, plus marinating and pickling time Servings: 3 cups Note: Adapted from Judy Rodgers’ “The Zuni Café Cookbook.” 1 pound zucchini 1 small yellow onion 2 tablespoons kosher salt 2 cups cider vinegar 1 cup sugar 1 1/2 teaspoons dry mustard 1 1/2 teaspoons crushed yellow and/or brown mustard seeds Scant 1

Continue Reading

The weird science of ice and how to make “Premium Ice” at home

ice

What are the benefits of clear ice? Using clear ice for mixed drinks is not just about aesthetics. Reason #1: Purity If ice is clear, then by definition, it contains minimal impurities. Impurities, like chemicals used to treat tap water, minerals, and particles of food picked up from the freezer, become more soluble in water

Continue Reading