HELPFUL HINTS
DEAR HELOISE: I had a problem with bagged greens, such as romaine lettuce or spinach, spoiling too soon. So I started using a paring knife to punch a bunch of holes in the bags before putting them in the refrigerator crisper. The greens last longer — up to twice as long as before. — Judy S., Mountain Home DEAR READER: This works well, and you can add a paper towel to absorb the moisture in the bag.
DEAR HELOISE: My husband and I are very unreliable about using a “clean/ dirty” sign on the dishwasher, never knowing if we turned it or not. I found a way to be sure about the dishes.
I bought a 4- inch white bathroom tile at the hardware store. When beginning to load a new batch of dirty dishes, we drip a drop or two of chocolate syrup or ketchup on the tile and keep it on the top rack where we can see it.
It shows us at once that we are loading, and it stays in there to get washed. A clean tile means clean dishes, and we are no longer confused.
— Pat S., Colorado Springs, Colo. DEAR READER: This certainly is a creative way to show when the dishes are clean, but why waste chocolate syrup? Keep a coffee cup or glass, right side up, on the top shelf. When it’s full of water, the dishes are clean.
DEAR HELOISE: When I’m baking and a piece of foil is needed to line a container, I turn the container over, tear off a piece of aluminum foil to fit over and cover the container, then mold the foil to the shape of the container.
After turning the container right side up, the foil can be placed inside.
— Stella G., Danville, Ky.
DEAR HELOISE: In our household we dedicate our second small coffee grinder exclusively to mincing fresh ginger, garlic and lemon grass, as well as small chunks of parmesan cheese. I then store the ingredients in our refrigerator or freezer for easy access in order to save time preparing meals.
I am curious to know of other ways to use this handy kitchen tool.
— Mary, via email DEAR READER: The grinder also can be used to chop fresh herbs and grind dry spices, and make breadcrumbs. Readers, please write in and share with Mary other uses for a coffee grinder.