HINTS FROM HELOISE

PRACTICAL, DEPENDABLE TIPS FOR TODAY’S BUSY CONSUMERS

Jane, most cooks have recipes they specialize in such as deviled

eggs or maybe a moist chocolate cake. These are the ones they usually bring to gatherings. However, I have some time-honored hints my mother taught me that I’ll pass on to you:

n First, always read the recipe through at least twice to make sure you didn’t miss anything. Don’t just skim through the directions.

n Have you got all the correct ingredients? Make sure, and be certain you have enough of all the ingredients.

n Use accurate measurements. A little too much or too little of something can ruin a recipe.

n Take your time and don’t rush. Not all of us were born to be great cooks, but I’ll bet you’re better at cooking than you realize.

The people before me left a messy microwave that I’ve cleaned but can’t get the odor out of it. In addition to that, their children used crayons to draw on the walls, which needs to be cleaned before I paint. The waxy crayons are hard to remove, so I need some help getting this clean. What should I use?

Jake, you can easily remove the artwork the previous children left for you by sprinkling some baking soda on a damp sponge and gently rubbing the area in a circular motion.

As for the microwave that still retains an odor, try this: Put 2 tablespoons of baking powder into 1 cup of water in a microwave-safe bowl and turn on high for about 2-3 minutes or until the water boils and steams the microwave. It will also help any spills left in a microwave.

If you want some simple solutions to many of life’s problems around the house, then you probably need my pamphlet “Heloise’s Baking Soda Hints and Recipes.” To get a copy, just go to www. Heloise.com or send $5 along with a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: Heloise/Baking Soda, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, TX 78279-5001.

Send your hints to Heloise@ Heloise.com or mail them to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000.

Dear Heloise: I don’t know how I do it, but every time I try to cook a new recipe, I manage to make a mess of it. I either overcook it or undercook the item. At a family get-together, everyone brought something they had made, and it’s always something outstanding. Not me. I cheated and bought a couple of pies from a local store and never told anyone. What am I doing wrong in the kitchen that makes my cooking semi-revolting!?