HELPFUL HINTS
DEAR HELOISE: Is it safe for me to use my cast iron skillet on my glass-top stove? I prefer cast iron because it gets hot quicker and stays hot a lot longer than other pots and pans. My stove instruction manual doesn’t mention it, and my cookbooks haven’t been helpful.
— Dee B., Indiana
DEAR READER: Using an iron skillet on a glass-top stove is not really recommended. First, weight is a concern. An iron skillet is heavy, especially when filled with food. If you drop it on the stovetop it could break or crack your glass-top stove. Cast iron has a rough finish, which could also scratch the surface. So, if you do decide to cook with cast iron, never slide it over the stovetop. However, if your iron skillet is coated on the bottom with a porcelain enamel, it might not damage the stovetop, but make sure the finish is very smooth.
DEAR HELOISE: My recipe cards get messy while cooking. I laminated all my favorite recipes. They can be wiped off and slide easily into my recipe box.
— Jean in Ohio
DEAR READER: Besides recipe cards, you can also laminate news or magazine articles, photos, invitations, children’s artwork and more.
DEAR HELOISE: My vent hood filter is loaded with grease from cooking and I’m worried about it catching on fire. It’s so difficult to clean! Have you got a hint to help me?
— Sandra in West Virginia
DEAR READER: Simply remove the filter and run it through a cycle in your dishwasher. It’s the easiest way to clean it. If you don’t have a dishwasher, soak it in a sink or bathtub with dishwasher detergent and water.
DEAR READERS: Being stuck at home during these trying times doesn’t have to be all bad. Cooking together can be a way to bond with family. Try new recipes, teach kitchen basics to the kids and together make cookies and cupcakes to leave on the doorstep of neighbors, friends and other family members. Allow the kids to choose their favorite lunch or dinner and encourage them to participate in making it. It may not turn out to be their favorite thing to do, but at least they can learn what’s involved in putting a meal together. Making memories and delicious meals and desserts — it’s a win-win experience.