HELPFUL HINTS

DEARHELOISE: How do I clean burn marks off my glasstop stove?

— Andrea N., Clarinda,

Iowa

DEAR READER: When the top has cooled off, wipe down the surface with a sponge and mild soapy water. Wipe dry. Then make a paste of baking soda and water and, in a circular motion, start to clean the burn spot. It will take some effort, but you can get the marks off your stove. Some people will take a razor blade to carefully scrape the stubborn areas, but if you use a razor blade, be extra careful not to scratch your stovetop.

DEAR HELOISE: Your mother had a recipe for potatoes that was out of this world! I believe it was called Peking Potatoes. Could you reprint the recipe? My son is coming home at Christmas, and I want to make this recipe for him.

— Lucinda W., Troy, Mich. DEAR READER: Yes, this recipe is a favorite of my other readers, too.

Peking (Double Baked) Potatoes

Baking potatoes

Milk to moisten

Drop or two of yellow food

coloring (optional)

A bit of butter or margarine Salt and ground black pepper

to taste

Grated cheese, your choice Grated raw onion Parmesan cheese Optional ingredients for

variety:

Garlic powder Chopped chives

Green onions Pimentos

Bake potatoes in the oven until done. Wearing oven mitts, cut each potato in half and scoop out the centers with a spoon (but leave the skins intact) and place the pulp in a mixing bowl. Mash the potatoes while still hot. Add just a little milk at a time to moisten, the yellow food coloring, butter, and salt and pepper. Grate the cheese and raw onion using the coarsest holes of the grater. Add cheese and onions to the mashed potatoes and blend well with a fork.

Do not beat or use a mixer. Then gently fill each baked potato half-shell with the mixture. Don’t overstuff. Place in a baking dish and heat in the oven until thoroughly warmed.

After re-baking, a nice touch is to sprinkle Parmesan cheese (or your favorite cheese) over the top and let it melt. You can add extra items such as garlic powder, chives, green onions or pimentos.