Burned Dutch oven will need some aggressive action
Also: Getting real with making vanilla
Q I have a Le Creuset Dutch oven that I have owned for over 30 years. I was cooking a tomato jam that had sugar in it and the temperature was too high and it burned the bottom of the pan. I have tried to scrub the burned substance with baking soda, then baking soda with vinegar. I have also boiled water with baking soda and dish soap and there is still some burned-on residue left. Any suggestions?
A Adding the element of heat is smart but instead of water and baking soda, pour enough vinegar into the pot to cover the bottom. Add baking soda, bring to a boil for five minutes. Turn element off, cover and leave overnight. Scrub in the morning. Unless there is a chance of permanent scratches, use an S.O.S pad. Or sprinkle the inside of the pot with a layer of dishwasher detergent powder. Fill the pot one-quarter full with water. Boil for five minutes and remove from element. Leave overnight and wash as normal. Or soak cola in the pot overnight. Scrub with an abrasive pad in the morning. Some people have great results by soaking a fabric softener sheet inside the pot with some water overnight. However, it sounds like your pot needs a more aggressive solution.
Q Over the years, stains have developed under planters sitting on concrete or patio paver from water and fertilizer running through planters. Any solution to remove these white fertilizer stains?
A Pour a liberal amount of vinegar onto the stain. Sprinkle with a liberal amount of salt and leave for 15 minutes. Scrub with a bristled brush. If the stains remain, rinse with water. Pour 1/4 cup (60 mL) bleach to one gallon (4.5 L) water. Pour onto the area and scrub with an abrasive brush. Thoroughly rinse with water. Muriatic acid is a last resort, because it is a dangerous product if not used correctly; see label instructions before use.
Q Do you have a recipe for waterless hand cleaner?
A The U.S. Food and Drug Administration states that for a waterless hand cleaner to effectively kill germs, it must contain at least 60 per cent alcohol. Make your own Peppermint Hand Sanitizer by combining 1/2 cup (125 mL) Aloe Vera gel, 3/4 cup (180 mL) rubbing alcohol and 1/2 tsp (2.5 mL) peppermint essential oil. Mix and store in a spray bottle.
Q Is it possible to make my own real vanilla for baking in contrast to imitation extract?
A I really enjoy using real vanilla as opposed to vanilla extract. Let’s begin with proper storage: vanilla doesn’t typically go bad but if stored in a warm place it will deteriorate and lose flavour. Refrigeration is not recommended but if it’s a choice between a hot storage area and refrigerator, opt for the fridge. Pure vanilla extract is made by percolating chopped vanilla beans with consumable alcohol and water. Combine one vanilla bean in a container of vodka. Keep in mind you will require patience, because the mixture needs to sit for about eight weeks to reach full strength.
ATTRACTING LADY BUGS TO YOUR GARDEN
Many species of lady bugs eat aphids, which suck the life force out of your plants.
If you purchase lady bugs for
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your garden, release them in the evening, because while they do climb at night, they don’t fly at night which increases the chance that lady bugs will stay put.
They can eat up to 50 aphids a
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day.
Create an enticing environment
■ for ladybugs by watering your garden.
Lady bugs are harmless to
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humans but when threatened, they do emit a foul odour.