Hints from Heloise

Dear Heloise: Instead of scraping the jar for that LAST BIT OF PEANUT BUTTER, I stick the jar in the microwave for a few seconds, allowing the “dregs” to reach a very soft to liquid stage. Timing depends on the amount left in the jar, so keep an eye on it. I mix the softened peanut butter into pancake batter. Even 1 or 2 tablespoons adds noticeable flavor. I also use this mixture to make “poor man’s crepes,” spreading them with a thin layer of jam or jelly. — Betsy S., Fredericksburg, Va.

Betsy, poor man, rich man, old man, young man (and gals) — this sounds delicious to me! I make “peanut-butter milk” by pouring some lowfat milk into what’s left in the jar. I add a teaspoon of honey and a dash of cinnamon. Add some ice, and I’m set! — Heloise TURNIP TROUBLE Dear Heloise: Once again, I am going to have to toss a batch of turnip greens! Although I rinsed and drained them thoroughly, some sand or grit remained. Do you have any hints for this problem? — Karen C., Clinton, Miss.

Karen, don’t throw out the greens just yet! Washing (really, rinsing, since you don’t use soap) turnip greens can take some time. But they are worth it when you are eating them along with a slice of corn bread and a cut-up red, ripe tomato. Fill the sink or a very large pot with cold water. You should cut up the greens first, removing the stems and ribs. Let them soak a short while, then rinse thoroughly to remove all of the grit. Do repeat this process a few times to get out all of the sand and grit. Some folks add a glug or two of vinegar to the water — they say it helps release the grit. — Heloise COLD DRINKS Dear Heloise: Whenever I am almost finished with a 2liter bottle of soda, I place another one behind it in the refrigerator. When I finish the first one, there is another that is cold and ready. — Arlene in Texas DRY DISHES Dear Heloise: Use old, pretty table napkins as dishdrying towels. They work great on dishes and stemware, and are easy to wash. — Donna D. in California