HELPFUL HINTS

DEAR HELOISE: My husband and I are building a home. When it comes to our stove and ovens, we don’t know whether to go with gas or electric. Any suggestions?

— Carrie T., Michigan

DEAR READER: Generally, you should pick what you are used to. If you have cooked only with gas, then electric may be a whole new learning curve. Here are a few things to consider:

Electric stoves usually are less expensive than gas. Electric stoves/ovens: Smooth-top stoves are easy to clean, and the coil stoves are, too.

Electric ovens are drier than gas ovens.

Gas stoves/ ovens: Instant heat, both on and off.

Natural and propane gas are inexpensive and save money in the long run.

Gas ovens are hotter at the top, and gas gives off moisture.

Gas stoves are a little more difficult to clean because of the heavy iron grates.

If the cost is a factor, electric is the way to go. If you cook and bake a lot, you may want to go with gas. Remember, you most likely will be living with the appliance for a long time, so choose wisely.

DEAR HELOISE: You have, in the past, printed your recipe for Orange Coffee. I’ve misplaced the recipe, so would you please reprint it?

— Terrie N., New York DEAR READER: Terrie, here it is:

Orange Coffee

½ cup instant coffee granules ¾ cup sugar

1 cup powdered milk or coffee

creamer

½ teaspoon dried orange peel (you can use fresh orange zest, but be sure to store the mixture in the fridge.) Blend until powdered. Add 2 rounded teaspoons per 6-8 ounces of hot water.

DEAR HELOISE: My cardiologist has me on a lowto no-salt diet. I have some hints for your readers:

Always read the ingredients labels. Salt content varies from one brand to the next.

“Lite” or “low-cal” often means higher salt content.

Fry in olive oil, not butter or margarine.

The majority of soft drinks, energy drinks, cheese, lunch meat and canned soups and vegetables have high amounts of sodium.

— Ed Y., Villa Park, Calif. DEAR READER: Ed, they do sell salt-free butter.