Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2009

Heloise: Best way to slice cheesecake

PLANT MARKERS

For a lifetime supply of plant markers, look for miniblinds tossed out with the garbage or at garage sales. - Bill Wallace, Brandon, Miss.

SLICING CHEESECAKE

Can you tell me some way to cut a cheesecake without it sticking to the knife? I've tried everything. - Fae M., Neosho, Mo.

The longtime Heloise hint for slicing angel food cake or cheesecake is to use a piece of sewing thread or unflavored dental floss. It really works. Just cut off a strand about 1 foot long and hold it tautly in both hands. Slice it downward and pull through the cake.

The other hint is to clean the blade in cold water, wipe dry and then cut. This helps prevent a sticky buildup. - Heloise

KITCHEN SAFETY

Just a friendly reminder for cooks to always turn the handles on their pans in. It can prevent children from grabbing them and also anyone close to the stove from brushing up against a handle and spilling the contents on them. - Carolyn S., via e-mail

TASTY TIDBITS

Here are a few hints for keeping cheese fresh:

1. Wrap the cheese in a paper towel that has been sprinkled with white vinegar. Be sure the cheese is completely covered, then store in a self-sealing plastic bag in the refrigerator.

2. Place a few sugar cubes in a plastic bag with the cheese. Seal the bag. The cubes will need to be replaced every few days because they absorb the moisture from the cheese, which is what causes the mold.

3. Cheese may be stored in the freezer. Hard cheeses such as cheddar, Swiss, Parmesan, etc., tend to freeze better than the soft cheeses such as feta, etc.

4. Natural cheese that is wrapped correctly (airtight container) will remain fresh for one or two months in the fridge. - Heloise

RECIPE PREPARATION

When preparing a recipe for baking or cooking, I place all the ingredients on the left side of my work area. When an item is used, I put that item on the right side. When I am finished, I haven't forgotten an ingredient, and they are ready to be put away. - Joan T., New Windsor, N.Y.

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