Hints from Heloise

Paper plates

Dear Heloise: I live in a tiny home, which is becoming very popular these days. That meant downsizing everything and using things that do double duty. I found that I could use plastic-coated paper plates for a number of chores such as:

— A dustpan: Use it and throw it away.

— As a cutting board. — Use in the microwave to heat foods.

— Use as a spoon rest. — Use to feed my little dog. — Harvey T., Silverton, Colorado

Papaya soup

Dear Heloise: My three best friends are coming for lunch toward the end of July, and I’d like to surprise them with something unusual by starting off lunch with your papaya recipe for cold summer soup. I’m known for unusual recipes, which is why my friends get excited about having lunch at my place. What I need is the complete recipe, because I’ve lost the one I had. Would you reprint that recipe for all of us who love to surprise our guests with a delicious and novel soup? — Marjorie P., Nashua, New Hampshire

Marjorie, I always felt this was a fun soup to serve before the main course in the warm summer months. Every time I taste it I’m reminded of Hawaii. You’ll need:

2 large papayas, peeled and cut into large cubes

3/4 cup plain low-fat yogurt (non-fat won’t work)

1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice

1/4 cup mild-flavored honey (clover honey works well)

1 cup sparkling water, divided

4 mint sprigs for garnish Place the papaya, 1/2 cup of yogurt, lime juice and honey in a food processor, reserving some of the papaya for garnish. Process until smooth. Add 1/2 cup of the sparkling water and continue processing until blended. Keep chilled until ready to serve.

Just before serving, add the remaining sparkling water and mix well. Garnish each serving with several papaya cubes, 1 tablespoon of yogurt and a mint sprig. Makes about 4 servings.

If you like recipes that make your guests wonder where you get your clever ideas for unusual recipes that taste great, then you need my pamphlet “Heloise’s Spectacular Soups.” Just go to www.Heloise.com, or send $5, along with a stamped (78 cents), self-addressed, long envelope to: Heloise/Soups, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, TX 78279-5001. The pamphlet includes recipes for both hot and cold soups. — Heloise

Rice cooker

Dear Heloise: I have an automatic rice cooker, but rice sticks to the bottom, and I have a terrible time getting all of it out. Help! — Nancy H., Dolores, Colorado

Nancy, spray the bottom of the rice cooker with a non-sticking spray, and your problem should be solved. — Heloise