Bok Choy: What Is It and How Do I Cook It?

Baby Bok Choy

The first time I saw bok choy in the produce department, I thought it was a new kind of celery.  One end had thick white stems attached to a base and the other end had big leaves.  Since I was tired of my usual beans, broccoli, spinach and asparagus, I bought a large bok choy so I could try it out.  Here’s what I learned:

Mom Cooking Tip 104

Frying Chicken Tikka

Use tongs rather than a fork to turn meat as it cooks.  That way the juices won’t drip out through the holes made by the fork. 

See all my Cooking Tips!

Free Cookbook Bonanza

My California small town has free book kiosks throughout the community. Residents donate books they don’t want, and other residents take them and then add their own unloved volumes.  It’s a great way to find old cookbooks. 

The first cookbook I discovered was one that I didn’t know existed.  However, once I saw the cover, I realized it was a companion volume to a book—“Thoughts for Festive Foods”—I used faithfully when I was learning to cook.  Published in 1964 and illustrated with line drawings instead of the gorgeous color photos we’re used to today, the book is very much of its time.

Question for Mom

Does it matter if I start baking with a cold oven or must it always be at the pre-heated temperature when I put food into it?  Alyssa D.

If you’re baking cake, cookies, pies or most breads, the oven needs to be at the exact temperature the recipe requires.  However, if you’re roasting potatoes, beets, other root vegetables or large pieces of meat, starting them in a cold oven is fine.

 See all Questions for Mom

Mom Money-Saving Tip 79

Baked Chicken + 4 Sides: Cauliflower, Green Beans, Couscous and Bread

Add extra side dishes to your dinner menu.  If you traditionally serve one vegetable, try serving two or add a salad or bread.  That way you can serve less meat, which is usually the most expensive item on your plate.

See all my Money-Saving Tips!

Bulgur Wheat: What Is It and How Do I Cook It?

Bulgur wheat (bulgor wheat) is made of whole wheat kernels that have been boiled, dried and ground.  It needs to be cooked before eating.  Its high amount of fiber and nutrients make it a popular ingredient in Indian, Turkish and other Middle Eastern cuisines.

Many diners first come across bulgur wheat when eating Tabouli Salad (Tabbouleh Salad), a Middle Eastern dish made with fresh tomatoes, fresh parsley, olive oil, lemon juice, a few spices and some of this grain.

Mom Cooking Tip 103

Always wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw eggs.

   See all my Cooking Tips!