Kitchen Basics, Tips & Tricks

What is a tagine? Experts explain the traditional Moroccan dish and the cone-shaped clay vessel used to cook it. Learn how the unique design traps steam, concentrates flavor, and produces tender meats and vegetables. Plus, get tips for recreating the technique with everyday cookware.

Learn how to cook salmon in the air fryer. We explain step by step how to bake or steam, cook breaded salmon, burgers, or salmon cubes.

Our handy chart and expert tips will ensure your chicken—whether you're cooking it whole or in parts—is baked to a safe internal temperature and moist.

We explain what a sieve is and how a strainer is different. Also do you need both a strainer and a sieve in your kitchen?

Is moldy cheese safe to eat? It depends on the type of cheese. Learn which cheeses are safe, which can be salvaged, and which should be tossed.

Learn how to wash strawberries with water, vinegar, or baking soda to remove germs and dirt. Experts explain why cleaning strawberries is important.

Beets can be roasted or steamed. Learn from experts how to steam beets for easier eating, plus tips for preparing the beetroot before steaming.

Can you refrigerate potatoes? Is it a good idea to prolong their life, or does it ruin their flavor and texture? A food scientist explains what happens to potatoes in cold environments and shares the best way to store them so they stay fresh for months.

Experts explain why you soak beans overnight. Soaking softens the tough outer coat of dried beans, so water from cooking is absorbed more efficiently and it makes the interiors creamy. Alternative methods include long-cooking, sprouting, and fermenting.

Putting cast iron in the dishwasher can strip its seasoning and cause rust, but one mistake doesn't mean it's ruined. Experts explain what happens during a dishwasher cycle and share step-by-step instructions to restore your skillet.

Storing potatoes the right way will prevent sprouting. Keep spuds in a dry, cool place, out of the refrigerator (unless they're cut) for optimal freshness.

Learn how to freeze milk safely. Find out how long it lasts frozen and the right way to thaw it. Also, how to use thawed milk in cooking, baking, and drinks.

Experts lay out how cucumbers can become pickles and the different pickling techniques that can be used.

Have a sprouted onion in your kitchen? Food safety experts explain whether it's safe to eat, when to toss it, and how sprouting affects flavor.

Experts share what types of takeout containers can be reused, and which should not be used again. Also how long to use takeout containers and when to recycle or toss them.