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# CulinaryLore

Food Science, History, and Much More

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## Posts

- [15 Cooking Rules You Can Safely Ignore](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-tips:cooking-rules-to-ignore/) - From food safety tips that increase risk to 'refined' techniques that waste your time, here are 15 antiquated cooking rules you can stop following today.
- [Does Anybody Eat Raw Chicken?](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:does-anybody-eat-raw-chicken/) - At dinner the other night, my son asked me an interesting question. Why are beef and other meats eaten rare or even raw, but not chicken? While I pointed out that there is some risk of salmonella poisoning from consuming raw or undercooked chicken, requiring a higher temperature to guard against, the simple reason we
- [Edible Berry Rules of Thumb: Why They Often Fail](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:is-color-an-indication-of-edible-berries/) - Can you tell if a berry is safe to eat by its color? We break down the 'rules of thumb' for survival and explain the Universal Edibility Test.
- [Why Do People Say "Don't Drink the Kool-Aid?"](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:why-do-people-say-dont-drink-the-kool-aid/) - Every once in a while, you may hear someone say, "Don't drink the Kool-Aid." What does this expression mean, and how did Kool-Aid become associated with it?
- [What Is The Oldest Form Of Cooking?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-is-the-oldest-form-of-cooking/) - You probably use the oldest form of cooking quite often, or eat foods cooked in this way. Every time you cook on the grill, you are doing it. And any time you go out of a nice fire-grilled steak, you are eating food cooked in the oldest way. The oldest form of cooking is basically
- [What Foods Did The Ancient Egyptians Eat?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-foods-did-the-ancient-egyptians-eat/) - The ancient Egyptians certainly did not have access to the vast array of foods we enjoy today. However, among ancient civilizations, Egypt had one of the most diverse and plentiful food supplies. Egypt was, in fact, often called "the breadbasket of the world." Much of this dietary richness was made possible by the Nile River. There was
- [What Is Achiote?](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:what-is-achiote/) - Achiote is flavoring and coloring agent that is used extensively in Mexican cooking. It is made from annatto seeds. Achiote is sometimes called "saffron of Mexico." Annatto seeds have a deep yellow to deep red color that impart an orange or yellow color too foods. They also have a nutty, musky and earthy flavor of
- [What are Albóndigas?](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:what-are-albondigas/) - Albóndigas are the Spanish version of meatballs. The name comes from Arabic word al-bunduq, which derives from the Greek word for hazelnut, suggesting that the meatballs are of the same shape and size. Albóndigas, widely eaten in Spain, Mexico, and other Latin American countries, are usually made from ground beef, but they can also be made from
- [Maraschino Cherries: The True, Unmatched Original](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:what-are-maraschino-cherries/) - What are real Maraschino cherries? Discover the history of Luxardo, the real Marasca cherries, & why the neon-red cocktail garnish is just a cheap imitation.
- [Are Oats Safe To Eat Raw?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:are-oats-safe-to-eat-raw/) - Are oats safe to eat raw? Could doing so make you sick? Well not all types of oats are as safe as others. Find out at Culinary Lore.
- [Are Crayfish Freshwater Lobsters? Relationship and Biology](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:are-crayfish-freshwater-lobsters/) - Is a crayfish just a small lobster? While they look identical, they belong to different families & environments. Learn the true biology behind this nickname.
- [Did Raisins Used To Have Seeds?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:did-raisins-used-to-have-seeds/) - Around 95% of raisins are made with seedless grapes, specifically, Thompson seedless grapes. But they weren't always used. Before this, grapes often had seeds.
- [Does Basting Make Chicken Or Turkey Skin More Crispy?](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:does-basting-make-chicken-or-turkey-skin-more-crispy/) - Many home cooks believe that basting a roasting turkey or chicken makes for a crispier skin. Is this true? Does basting make chicken or turkey skin more crispy?
- [Can I Freeze Meats in Their Supermarket Package?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:can-i-freeze-meats-in-their-supermarket-package/) - Supermarket meats tend to come in one of two different types of packages. Traditionally, you will find them in a Styrofoam or plastic tray, sometimes with an absorbent pad underneath, and over-wrapped with a thin plastic wrap. You may also find them in vacuum-sealed packages as I described in the article Can You Age Beef
- [YOSUKATA Carbon Steel Wok: All the Wok You Need and More](https://culinarylore.com/tools:yosukata-carbon-steel-wok-pan-all-the-wok-you-need-and-more/) - The YOSUKATA Carbon Steel Wok Pan isn't your average stir-fry pan. It's a flat-bottomed beauty that boasts a unique blend of tradition and innovation, crafted from heavy-duty carbon steel for lightning-fast heat distribution and a naturally non-stick surface. In this article, I'll address some of the great features of this versatile pan, from its pre-seasoned
- [Male vs. Female Eggplant: Does It Make a Difference?](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:male-vs-female-eggplant/) - Does the shape of the eggplant dimple show it's gender? Is a round dimple better? Find out the truth behind the male vs. female eggplant.
- [What Is the Most Popular Food In America in 2026?](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:what-is-the-most-popular-food-in-america/) - What is the most popular food in America in 2026? From the potato's rise to #1 to the fried chicken crisis, explore the latest stats and food psychology.
- [What Does the Term "Proof" Mean in Alcohol Liquors? Alcohol Proof vs. ABV Explained](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:meaning-of-proof-and-measuring-alcohol-amount/) - What does 80 proof actually mean? Learn the difference between alcohol proof & ABV, the history of the gunpowder "proof" test, & how to calculate alcohol grams.
- [Airline Chicken: What in the World is It Doing on a Restaurant Menu?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-terms:airline-chicken-on-restaurant-menu/) - If you've eaten on a plane, you're probably not thrilled about the idea of "Airline Chicken." But then, you go to a nice restaurant, and it's on the menu.
- [What Are Gandules?](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:what-are-gandules/) - Gandule is another name for pigeon peas, small beans native to Africa and/or India. The beans are small, green to yellow-brown, and highly nutritious.
- [Spices Were Used to Mask the Taste of Bad Meat in the Middle Ages?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:spices-used-to-cover-taste-bad-meat/) - Did medieval cooks really use spices to mask the taste of rotten meat? Let's examine the economics and safety of the period to debunk this persistent food myth.
- [Can You Make Limp Celery Crisp Again?](https://culinarylore.com/how-to-guides:make-limp-celery-crisp-again/) - It has happened to all of us. We buy a head of celery, throw it in the crisper (how ironic), forget, or just neglect, to use it, and, when we decide to make some chicken salad — we love some celery in our chicken salad — we discover the celery is limp, rubbery, and saggy.
- [10 Ways For Waiters to Reduce Their Tips](https://culinarylore.com/dining:restaurant-server-good-ways-to-reduce-your-tip/) - I want to be very clear about the tone of this article, before I even begin. Being a waiter is one of the most exhausting jobs anyone can have, on many levels. And, by the way, I prefer the term waiter instead of server. I had originally used the now more common term 'server' in the title, but
- [Why Does Pasteurized Milk Go Bad?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:why-does-pasteurized-milk-go-bad/) - Once an opened container of pasteurized milk is a few days past its expiration date, you can expect it to smell and taste a bit sour. After a week or so, it will taste extremely sour. At some point, it will even develop chunks. Gross! But if it's pasteurized, which kills the germs in the
- [How Are Calories Measured? The Science of Calorimetry](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:how-are-calories-measured/) - Ever wonder how food energy is calculated? Learn how scientists use a bomb calorimeter and the Atwater system to measure calories and determine food labels.
- [Where Does 'Land of Milk and Honey' Come From?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:where-does-land-of-milk-and-honey-come-from/) - The phrase 'land of milk and honey' is an idiomatic expression used today to refer to a place full of comfort and luxury. It is especially used to mean the expectation of such a place when reality does not actually deliver. We might say, "he came to America expecting a land of milk and honey." Land
- [What Is Southern Red-Eye Gravy?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-is-southern-red-eye-gravy/) - Southern red-eye gravy is just the essence of fried country ham mixed with brewed coffee. Sometimes, a ham gravy without the coffee is also called red-eye gravy.
- [What Is Origin of the Word Gravy and Gravy Train?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-of-slang-term-gravy-train/) - The name of a dog food and the subject of at least one blues song by W.C. Handy, gravy train is a slang term which refers to easy money that just keeps on rolling in, with little effort required. Say, for instance, you receive a large inheritance from a mysterious relative, which comes in monthly installments: You
- [The Almond is Not a Nut?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:the-almond-is-not-a-nut/) - No, the almond nut isn't a nut. I'm not sure if that should blow your mind. After all, pistachios, cashews, macadamias, and peanuts aren't nuts. Neither are pine nuts. Does it really matter? No. Tomatoes are fruits but we treat them like vegetables in a culinary sense. Almonds and its non-nut compatriots are similar. But,
- [What Is Poutine?](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:what-is-poutine/) - Poutine, pronounced poot-sin or poo-teen, is a Canadian dish of deep-fried potatoes and fresh cheese curds covered with brown gravy. Learn more on CulinaryLore.
- [Should You Use Hot Tap Water To Boil Water More Quickly?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-tips:should-you-use-hot-tap-water-to-boil-water-more-quickly/) - A watched pot never boils. There's a reason we say that. Waiting for a big pot of water to boil can try our patience. It seems like the longer you stare at it the longer it takes to boil. Then, once you turn your back, presto, it starts to boil. Since your kitchen faucet is
- [Did President George H.W. Bush Really Ban Broccoli from the White House?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:did-bush-really-ban-broccoli-from-white-house/) - The answer is yes, President George H.W. Bush really did ban broccoli from the White House, and from Air Force One as well, in March of 1990. The President had hated broccoli all his life and since he was not only 61 years old, but also the "leader of the free world," he decided that
- [Are Food Cravings Your Body's Way of Telling You It Needs Certain Nutrients?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:are-food-cravings-really-your-body-needs/) - It is a widespread claim that food cravings are your body's way of telling you what nutrients it needs. This long-held belief is fully explored in this article.
- [Can Pistachios Spontaneously Combust? (The Explosive Truth)](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:pistachio-nuts-can-spontaneously-combust/) - Can pistachios actually explode? Discover the science behind pistachio combustion and why sensational listicles always pick on the wrong nut.
- [Turkish Delight: What Edmund Ate in the Chronicles of Narnia](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:turkish-delight-edmund/) - "Turkish Delight, please, your Majesty." If you're a Narnia fan, you know that Edmund got completely bonked on the Turkish Delight the White Witch gave him. It must have been one heck of a treat but what in the world is it? Well, it's a starch jelly. I'm sure that clears it up, right? No? Picture
- [Is the Croissant Really French or is it from Somewhere Else?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:is-the-croissant-really-french/) - The French have a whole lot to do with the croissant as it is known today, especially making it with a laminated dough. But is the croissant really French in the first place?
- [What is Hawaiian Lomi-Lomi Salmon?](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:what-is-hawaiian-lomi-lomi-salmon/) - A dish that is bound to show up at Hawaiian luaus, salmon lomi-lomi, has a curious name. If you are on vacation in Hawaii and attend a spa, you might get a lomi-lomi massage. In fact, lomi-lomi massage is available in many spas throughout the world. Later, if you attend a luau and find lomi-lomi
- [Cutting Lettuce with a Knife: Does it Really Cause Browning?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:do-not-cut-lettuce-with-a-knife/) - Does cutting lettuce with a knife really cause browning? Learn the science of oxidation, why tearing is a myth, and 3 steps to keep greens fresh longer.
- [Don't Be Like Gordon Ramsey Around Grease Fires](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:dont-be-like-gordon-ramsey-around-grease-fires/) - Gordon Ramsey has a lot of skills in the kitchen, as long as it has to do with cooking. When it comes to fire safety, he scores a big fat zero. Learn what not to do!
- [How to Use a Home Fire Extinguisher: The P.A.S.S. Method](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:know-how-to-use-your-home-fire-extinguisher/) - Learn how to use a fire extinguisher safely using the P.A.S.S. method. Discover when to fight a fire, common mistakes to avoid, and essential maintenance tips.
- [Does Imitation Vanilla Contain Petroleum or Paper Mill Waste?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:does-imitation-vanilla-contain-petroleum-or-paper-mill-waste/) - Ever wonder if imitation vanilla contains petroleum or paper mill waste? Discover the science of vanillin and the truth behind common food myths.
- [Who Invented the Crock-Pot Slow Cooker?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:who-invented-the-crock-pot-slow-cooker/) - Today, what we previously knew as the Crock-Pot, an electric slow cooker is more popular than ever. Just about every major appliance company makes their own version of a slow-cooker, and Crock-Pot, which was the first brand of slow-cooker, is no longer the only game in town. Original Crock-Pot Inventor The original Crock-Pot was sold
- [Heinz Mustard and French's Ketchup: The Condiment War](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:heinz-mustard-and-frenchs-ketchup-condiment-war/) - You probably use French's Mustard, and you probably use Heinz Ketchup. It's been this way for many, many years. Heinz, which is in the midst of merging with Kraft Foods [merger now complete], in fact, has been the leading ketchup brand for the last century and more. Now, Both French's and Heinz is trying to
- [Nighty Night Tea from Traditional Medicinals Review](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:traditional-medicinals-nighty-night-tea/) - My wife hates all tea whether is it tea made with actual tea leaves, or it is an herbal tea (semantics, it's an infusion but we call it all tea). My son and I, though, tough guys that we are, we like all sorts of tea. We drink iced tea by the gallon and enjoy
- [The Cereal Wars: C.W. Post and the Birth of Medical Food Myths](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:cereal-wars-medical-food-myths/) - Explore the Cereal Wars between C.W. Post and Kellogg. Discover how 'medical food myths' turned a box of Grape-Nuts into a claimed cure for appendicitis.
- [What is the Difference Between Broth, Stock, and Consommé?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-terms:difference-between-broth-and-consomme/) - What is the real difference between broth, stock, and consommé? Stop the confusion with this clear, chef-tested guide to these three essential culinary liquids.
- [Is Mountain Dew Named After Moonshine?](https://culinarylore.com/sodas:is-mountain-dew-named-after-moonshine/) - Mountain Dew has long been a slang term for moonshine. Is it possible, then, that one of the leading soda brands in the world, Mountain Dew, now owned by Pepsi, was invoking moonshine when the name was coined? Or, was "mountain dew" meant to call up images of, well, mountains, dew, the great outdoors, and
- [Should You Buy Fresh or Frozen Shrimp at the Grocery Store?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:should-you-buy-fresh-or-frozen-shrimp/) - Stop falling for "fresh" grocery store shrimp. Learn why buying frozen (IQF) is actually better for quality & safety. Plus: how to avoid the slimy texture!
- [Why Shouldn't You Overcrowd the Pan When Cooking?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-tips:why-you-should-not-overcrowd-the-pan-in-cooking/) - When pan-frying, pan-searing, or sauteing, you should not overcrowd the pan. Doing so will prevent or delay the Maillard reaction & diminish texture and flavor.
- [The Strange Mystery of the Navel Orange: From Brazil to California](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:how-did-the-navel-orange-originate/) - Discover the origin of the navel orange. From a 19th-century mutation in Brazil to the foundation of the California citrus industry, learn how it began!
- [Decoding the PLU Codes on Fruit and Vegetable Stickers](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:decoding-plu-numbers-on-produce/) - If you are an experienced grocery store shopper, you know that fruits and vegetables from stickers bearing PLU codes. Do these codes have meaning?
- [What Is Biltong?](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:what-is-biltong/) - Biltong is a South African dried, salted meat product similar to beef jerky. The word biltong comes from the Dutch word bil, meaning "round" or "buttock," and tong, meaning "tongue." This signifies the back or thigh portion and means literally buttock-tongue because it is a strip of meat from the back of the thigh. It can also be made from other cuts, including
- [Classic Breakfast Cereal Timeline](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:classic-breakfast-cereal-timeline/) - Those of us who grew up in the 1960s or 70s think of many iconic breakfast cereal brands as being a part of our childhood. What we sometimes don’t realize is that many of the most time-tested cereals were around even in our parents’ or grandparents’ time. You may be surprised at how old some of
- [The Apple Pie Illusion: Why Spices (and Crackers) Fool Us](https://culinarylore.com/other:the-apple-pie-illusion-why-spices-and-crackers-fool-us/) - Is your apple pie a lie? Discover the Apple Pie Illusion, why apples lose their aromatics in the oven, & how we’ve been conditioned to accept spices as fruit.
- [Apple of My Eye Origin: Why the Pupil is a Linguistic Ghost](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:why-do-we-say-apple-of-my-eye/) - Why do we call loved ones the 'apple of my eye'? Discover the ancient anatomical error behind the phrase and why it has nothing to do with fruit.
- [How Did Monterey Jack Cheese Get Its Name?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:how-did-monterey-jack-cheese-get-its-name/) - Of the few cheeses that actually originated in the United States, Monterey Jack cheese is the most controversial. A semi-soft white cheese (except for some aged varieties), similar to cheddar, and often studded with jalapenos or pimientos, it is a favorite on nachos and other Tex-Mex or Mexican foods in the U.S. How it originated, however, is
- [The Anatomy of a Food Scare: Dismantling the $40 Billion Fraud](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:the-anatomy-of-a-food-scare-dismantling-the-40-billion-fraud/) - Is your food really "fake"? Dismantle the $40 billion food fraud myth with forensic data. Learn why viral alarmism relies on convincing numbers and fake logic.
- [The Impossible Foods Narrative: Hubris of the 'Bleeding' Burger](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:impossible-foods-narrative/) - The Impossible Foods: built on the 'Evil Cows' narrative. Explore the corporate hubris, venture capital trap, & the truth behind the bleeding Impossible Patty.
- [Why is There a Warning About Phenylketonurics on Diet Soda Labels?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:why-is-a-phenylketonurics-warning-on-diet-soda/) - Diet drinks and other products with aspartame bear the following health warning: "Phenylketonurics: Contains Phenylalanine." Is phenylalanine poisonous? Why the warning?
- [The Blackened Fish Myth: Paul Prudhomme and the Invention of a Cajun Tradition](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:the-blackened-fish-myth-paul-prudhomme/) - Think blackened fish is an ancient Cajun tradition? Discover the 1980s Prudhomme origins & why most blackened food is just burnt seasoning & capsaicin.
- [The Cajun vs. Creole Myth: Two Origins, One Louisiana Table](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:the-cajun-vs-creole-myth/) - Is New Orleans food actually Cajun? We deconstruct the "Tomato Myth," the Gumbo Fallacy, and the history of Acadiana to reveal the true story of Cajun identity.
- [How Many Anchovies in a Can?](https://culinarylore.com/measurements:how-many-anchovies-in-a-can/) - Anchovies now come packed in various ways, including in different sized jars. But, most people are familiar canned anchovies. How many anchovies are in a can?
- [Thai Cooking Ingredients: What Does Thai Style Mean?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-terms:thai-cooking-ingredients/) - Explore the essential Thai cooking ingredients and the "purpose" behind the flavors. Learn the difference between authentic Thai and "Thai style" marketing.
- [What Is a Dram? The Fascinating History of Whiskey's Most Precise (and Imprecise) Pour](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-is-a-dram/) - What is a dram? From a "wee" pour of Scottish whiskey to ancient Persian gold coins and apothecary weights, discover the fascinating history of the dram.
- [Microplastics in Bottled Water: 22x More Than Tap Water](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:microplastics-in-bottled-water/) - Is bottled water actually a plastic soup? Discover the Purification Paradox: why bottled water contains 22x more microplastic than tap & the easy solution.
- [The Green Potato and Toxic Solanine FAQ](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:the-green-potato-and-solanine-faq/) - In this FAQ, you will learn all about what causes potatoes to develop a green tint, whether it is dangerous, what to do about it, and many other answers!
- [Bamboo Shoots: How to Prep, Store, and Freeze (Fresh or Canned)](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:fresh-canned-and-dried-bamboo-shoots/) - earn how to store and freeze canned bamboo shoots to keep them crunchy. Discover why fresh bamboo contains toxins and how to safely prepare it for cooking.
- [Pekin Noodle Parlor: The Uncanny History of America’s Oldest Chinese Restaurant](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:whats-the-oldest-chinese-restaurant-in-the-united-states/) - Discover the Pekin Noodle Parlor in Butte, MT—the oldest Chinese restaurant in the US. A 2023 James Beard 'American Classic' with a legacy dating back to 1911.
- [Italian-American Food History: The Evolution of 5 Classics](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:italian-american-food-history-5-classics/) - Are Spaghetti Bolognese & Fettuccine Alfredo really Italian? Explore the history of 5 "Italian" classics to see how immigrant adaptation created a new cuisine.
- [Flavor Transfer: How a Mother’s Diet Shapes an Infant’s Future Palate](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:flavors-from-food-get-into-breast-milk/) - Think breast milk always tastes the same? Explore the science of flavor transfer & see how garlic & vanilla actually help teach your baby how to eat.
- [What Do You Learn In Culinary School Besides How to Cook?](https://culinarylore.com/education:what-do-you-learn-in-culinary-school-besides-cooking/) - Culinary students expect to learn the basics of cooking, like knife skills and cooking methods. What do you learn in culinary school besides cooking basics?
- [The Michael Pollan Fallacy: Why the 'Unpronounceable' Food Rule is Scientifically Hollow](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:michael-pollan-fallacy-unpronounceable-food-rule/) - Think Michael Pollan’s “unpronounceable” rule keeps you safe? We unpeel the chemistry of an apple to show why this famous food rule is scientifically hollow.
- [The "Olive Oil Mafia": Sorting Historical Truth from Storytelling Myths](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:the-olive-oil-mafia-myth/) - Is the Olive Oil Mafia real or a storytelling myth? Explore the history of Joe Profaci, the "Savior" narrative & the collective psychology of food fear.
- [White Castle Onions vs. Cabbage: The Truth Behind the Myth](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:white-castle-onions/) - Are white castle onions actually cabbage soaked in juice? 🧅 We debunk this viral food myth and reveal what's actually on your sliders.
- [Acheta Powder: A Fact-Based Examination of the 'Secret' Cricket Protein Rumor](https://culinarylore.com/other:acheta-powder-a-fact-based-examination-of-the-secret-cricket-protein-rumor/) - Is Acheta powder a "secret" cricket code? I audit FDA labeling laws, the primary UNII "House Cricket" identifier, and the high-stakes shellfish allergy trap.
- [Should You Cook Bacon in Water or Rinse it With Water?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-tips:should-you-cook-bacon-in-water-or-rinse-it-with-water/) - Should you cook bacon in water or rinse it? I audit the "shrinkage" myth, the 1980s origin of this cooking hack, and the hidden food safety risks of wet bacon.
- [Did Gerber Market a Big Mac and Fries Baby Food? The McDonald's Hoax](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:did-gerber-market-a-big-mac-and-fries-baby-food/) - Did McDonald’s make Big Mac baby food? I audit the 2008 digital art hoax, the 2014 viral surge, and the 1987 "Frankenstein" headline that tricked the internet.
- [Is Soil Depletion vs. Dilution: Debunking the Nutrient Decline Myth](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:are-todays-fruits-and-vegetables-less-nutritious-soil-depletion-and-nutrition/) - Does soil depletion really make produce less nutritious? I audit the data behind the '10 tomatoes' myth & reveal the mathematical errors that fuel food alarmism
- [The Fake Olive Oil Myth: A Forensic Analysis of the Evidence](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:the-fake-olive-oil-myth/) - Is your olive oil fake? I debunk the "70% fake" myth using 2015 forensic data. Learn why the 2010 UC Davis study is obsolete & the psychology of food scares.
- [Is Well-Done Steak Bad? The Myth of Stinky Meat & Temperature Illiteracy](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:is-well-done-steak-bad/) - Is well-done steak bad? Debunk the Bourdain 'stinky meat' myth & explore the temperature illiteracy of chefs who confuse a technical 160°F with burning a steak.
- [Did Medieval People Really Eat Moldy Bread? The "Hardy Ancestor" Fallacy](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:did-medieval-people-really-eat-moldy-bread/) - Did medieval peasants really have "iron stomachs"? Explore the Hardy Ancestor Fallacy and the dark truth behind Ergot and the reality of medieval bread laws.
- [The Bean of Death: Fava Beans, Pythagoras, and the Malaria Paradox](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:bean-of-death-fava-beans/) - Is the fava bean a biological booby trap? Explore the Bean of Death,' the Pythagoras myth & the controversial science behind the malaria-favism paradox.
- [Haw Flakes Candy Banned from U.S.?](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:haw-flakes-candy-banned-from-us/) - Various sources claim Chinese haw flakes candies are banned by the FDA due to an illegal food coloring, Ponceau 4R. Is it impossible to buy haw flakes in US?
- [From Adam and Eve to Blue Plate Specials: A Guide to Diner Lingo](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:diner-lingo-adam-and-even-on-a-raft/) - There are still some diners who use a peculiar and colorful language to call out orders. Explore these age-old gems of diner lingo like Adam and Eve on a Raft.
- [Origin of the Words Seltzer and Club Soda for Soda Water](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:origin-of-words-seltzer-and-club-soda/) - Although Seltzer has come to be a generic term for carbonated water or soda water, it was originally a brand of naturally carbonated water which came from Niederselters, Germany. This naturally carbonated water was bottled and sold as far back as 1728. It was brought into the US by immigrants from Europe and eventually came
- [Is Freezer Burned Food Safe? What Happens to Meat in the Freezer?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:is-freezer-burned-food-safe-what-happens-to-meat-in-the-freezer/) - Is freezer-burned food safe to eat? Discover what happens when you eat freezer-burned meat, why it happens, & how to prevent it with the 3-layer wrapping rule.
- [Frozen at Sea vs. Fresh Seafood: A Scientific Comparison](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:frozen-at-sea-vs-fresh-seafood/) - Stop falling for the FRESH FISH sign. Learn why "Frozen at Sea" (FAS) seafood is often higher quality than the thawed fillets in your grocery display case.
- [The Physics of the Puff: How the "Cereal Cannon" Ignited a Breakfast Revolution](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:physics-of-the-puff-cereal-cannon/) - Discover how Alexander Anderson’s explosive "cereal cannon" technology led to the invention of Kix and solved the "60-second soggy window" for breakfast cereal.
- [The Moral Tonic: How Granola Became the First "Medical" Cereal](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-and-history-of-granola/) - Was granola a moral tonic? Discover the "Like Causes Like" fallacy that fueled the Cereal Wars and linked Kellogg’s breakfast to ancient medical myths.
- [The Origin of Ketchup: A Surprisingly Worldly History](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-of-ketchup/) - I scoured the history books to find the true origin of ketchup. Explore the ketchup etymology from ancient Asian fish sauce (ke-tsiap) to modern tomato ketchup.
- [Is Your Dinner Redundant? Why 'Repetitive' Food Names Like Chai Tea are Correct"](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:redundant-food-names-chai-naan/) - Is 'Chai Tea' repetitive? Learn why redundant food names like Naan bread and Shrimp Scampi are actually correct in English and how borrowed terms evolve.
- [Is a Precocious Child "Precooked"? The Surprising Origins of Culinary and Cuisine](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:culinary-cuisine-origin/) - Why is a "precocious" child like a "precooked" meal? Explore the history of the words culinary & cuisine, from Latin roots to Iron Chef's famous fail.
- [What Is Drambuie? The Secret "Satisfying" Scotch Elixir](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:what-is-drambuie/) - Is Drambuie just honeyed scotch? Discover the 1745 "secret recipe" of Bonnie Prince Charlie, the meaning of its Gaelic name, and how to use it in a Rusty Nail.
- [What Are Sweetbreads? (Hint: It's Not Sugared Bread)](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:what-are-sweetbreads/) - Are sweetbreads testicles, brains, or glands? Discover the truth about this culinary delicacy, the difference between thymus and pancreas, & how they’re cooked.
- [Never Put Raw Mushrooms On Pizza: The Soggy Truth](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:never-put-raw-mushrooms-on-pizza/) - Stop ruining your pizza with raw mushrooms. Learn the forensic reason why 90% water content requires high heat, and how to get that perfect concentrated flavor.
- [Salt’s Essential Partner: Why Black Pepper is the King of Spices](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:why-black-pepper-is-the-king-of-spices/) - Salt is a mineral, but black pepper is the King of Spices. Discover why this ancient vine became salt's only permanent partner & the truth about how it grows.
- [The Alkaline Diet Scam: False Claims About Cancer and Other Health Benefits](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:alkaline-diet-scam/) - Can you really change your blood pH with food? Discover why the Alkaline Diet is a biological scam, the truth about "alkaline water," & the real science of pH.
- [Why Do We Call Hot Cross Buns "Hot" Even When They Are Cold or Frozen?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:why-do-we-call-hot-cross-buns-hot/) - Why are they called hot even when frozen? It wasn’t about the temperature—it was about 18th-century street marketing. Learn the history of the Hot Cross Bun.
- [The Real "Food Coma" Science: How Big Meals Hijack Your Brain via LNAAs](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:the-real-food-coma-science-how-big-meals-hijack-your-brain-via-lnaas/) - I recently stumbled across a "dubious food fact" claiming that the tryptophan in bananas makes them a natural sleep aid. It’s a classic example of loading a distraction on top of a distraction. Most people already believe the "Thanksgiving Turkey" myth, that turkey is so packed with tryptophan it acts like a sedative. Adding bananas
- [Hungry Water: Why 100% Pure H2O is Too Aggressive to Drink](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:hungry-water-100-pure-h2o-too-aggressive-to-drink/) - Think 100% pure water is the ultimate health drink? Learn why "Ultra-Pure" H2O is an aggressive industrial solvent that can leach minerals from your body.
- [Taco Bell Chihuahua: The Rise, Fall, and $42M Psycho Secret](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:taco-bell-chihuahua/) - What happened to the Taco Bell Chihuahua? Explore the life of Gidget, the cultural backlash, & the secret $42 million lawsuit over the stolen Psycho Chihuahua.
- [The Fajita Myth: Why Restaurants Sell You Sizzle Instead of Skill](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:the-fajita-myth-why-restaurants-sell-sizzle/) - Is it a taco or a heritage dish? Explore the true history of fajitas, from the Mexican vaqueros' arrachera to the 1980s 'sizzle' marketing of the Texas theater.
- [The Smiley Face Trademark: Can You Really Own a Smile?](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:someone-trademarked-smiley-face-cookies/) - Can you really own a smile? From the Eat’n Park cookie wars to the Nirvana lawsuit, we investigate the 'Schrödinger’s Cat' of food trademarks & generic symbols.
- [What Was the Difference Between Oreo and Hydrox Cookies?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-was-the-difference-between-oreo-and-hydrox-cookies/) - Hydrox cookies were the first sandwich cookie in the U.S. Oreos came out 4 years later and were soon the most popular sandwich cookies. How were they different?
- [London Broil: The Truth Revealed About This Meat Industry Misnomer](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:what-is-london-broil/) - Is London Broil a cut of meat or a cooking method? Discover the truth about the "Standardized Marinade" trap and why Londoners don't broil any differently.
- [What Is Vegemite? The Yeasty History of Australia’s Salty Staple](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-is-vegemite/) - What is Vegemite? Discover the history of Australia's iconic fermented yeast spread, find out what it tastes like, and how to make a proper Vegemite sandwich.
- [Chun King Chow Mein: First Canned Chinese Food, Sold by an Italian American](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:chun-king-chow-mein/) - Chun King first canned Chinese food sold in the U.S. The potential for ready-prepared Chinese food was not always apparent. The first to see it was an Italian-American.
- [Absinthe 101: The Ultimate Resource on the Green Fairy](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:absinthe-101/) - Learn the secrets of the Green Fairy with my Absinthe 101 guide. Explore the real history of the 100-year ban, debunk the potent toxin and hallucinatory myths,
- [The Science of Beer Rescue: How Bitters Fix a Sour Citrus Beer](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:the-science-of-beer-rescue/) - Stop pouring imbalanced, sour citrus beers down the drain. Learn the science of Intercomponent Suppression and how a few dashes of bitters can rescue them.
- [The Scientific Reason For Using Copper Bowls to Whip Egg Whites](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:scientific-reason-using-copper-bowls-egg-whites/) - For a long time, a common recommendation was to use a copper bowl to whip egg whites into a foam. In fact, special bowls were made just for this practice and it was long a part of French tradition. This is no longer recommended as often today, sometimes because there is fear of copper contamination,
- [Are Negative Calorie Foods Real? The Corrected Math of Metabolism](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:are-negative-calorie-foods-real/) - Negative calorie foods aren't just unlikely—they are a biological impossibility. Learn the real math of TEF, the 20-gallon ice water myth, & the halo bias.
- [The Early Coca-Cola Imitators: The War on Rip-Offs](https://culinarylore.com/sodas:the-early-coca-cola-imitators/) - Explore the history of early Coca-Cola imitators like Koke and Afri-Kola, and the 153 trademark battles fought to protect the world's most famous soda.
- [The Palatable Pharmacy: Why Early Sodas Were Loaded with Drugs](https://culinarylore.com/sodas:palatable-pharmacy-drug-history-of-soft-drinks/) - Before they were refreshments, early sodas were drug delivery systems. Discover the palatable pharmacy era of 7-Up, Pepsi, & the medicinal origins of the fizz.
- [Genericide: How Iconic Food Brands Lost Their Trademarks](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:what-happens-when-trademarked-food-names-become-gen/) - What happens when a brand name becomes so popular it becomes a definition? Explore the history of food genericide, from Shredded Wheat to the Slushie.
- [Cocaine in Coca-Cola: The 1886 Tonic to Refreshment History](https://culinarylore.com/sodas:did-coca-cola-contain-cocaine/) - Did Coca-Cola contain cocaine? Explore the history of the 1886 formula, the 9mg of cocaine in every glass, & why it was the main event in 19th-century tonics.
- [The Rice Cooker: How a Mid-Century Luxury Became an Asian Cultural Necessity](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:rice-cooker-luxury-to-necessity/) - How did the rice cooker go from a 1955 Toshiba engineering gamble to Asian necessity? Discover the history of "Fuzzy Logic" & the quest for the perfect grain.
- [Why "From-Scratch" Pumpkin Pie is Waste of Time](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:from-scratch-pumpkin-pie-waste-of-time/) - Think from scratch pumpkin pie is better? It's a massive time-drain that can't beat a can. Learn the pumpkin patch reality of our favorite canned pumpkin puree.
- [Why the Fridge Test For Olive Oil Doesn't Work](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:why-the-fridge-test-doesnt-work-for-olive-oil/) - The fridge test for olive oil is when you put it in the refrigerator to see if it turns solid. Find out why the olive oil fridge test doesn't work at CulinaryLore.
- [What is Mise en Place?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-terms:what-is-mise-en-place/) - Mise en place: a French cooking term that popularly refers to having all ingredients ready before cooking begins. In truth, the term has a much broader meaning.
- [What Is Glutinous Rice? The Science of Sticky Rice and Starch](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:what-is-glutinous-rice/) - Is glutinous rice actually gluten-free? Discover the science of amylopectin starch, the Latin origin of the name, and why you can't boil sticky rice!
- [Kaffir Lime Leaves: Fresh vs. Dried](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:kaffir-lime-leaves-fresh-vs-dried/) - Kaffir lime leaves, often used in Thai & other Southeast Asian cooking for a lemony aroma & taste, are hard to buy fresh in the U.S., and are often sold dried.
- [What Kind of Rice Do I Need to Make Thai Food at Home?](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:what-kind-of-rice-do-i-need-for-thai-food/) - Why is Jasmine the best rice for Thai curry? Discover the starch science, the 'New Rice' water trap, and the 5,000-year history of Kin Kow,
- [Does Bottled Whiskey Get Better With Age?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:doe-whiskey-get-better-with-age/) - Whiskey lovers often save a nice bottle of whiskey for years, waiting for the best time to open it. Does whiskey get better as it ages in the bottle?
- [What is Headcheese? Origin, Ingredients, and Regional Names](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-is-headcheese-origin-ingredients-regional-names/) - Why is a meat jelly called "cheese"? Trace the forensic history of headcheese from Medieval Brawn to modern Souse. Learn why calf or hog's head is used.
- [GMO Vegetables and Fruits: Complete List for America (2026)](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:what-are-the-gmo-fruits-and-vegetables-in-america/) - Up to 80% of processed foods contain GMOs, but which GMO vegetables and fruits are sold fresh? See a complete list of bioengineered produce in America for 2026.
- [How Was Horseradish Named? Did Horses Eat It?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:how-was-horseradish-named/) - Is horseradish named after horses, or is it a 500-year-old mistranslation? Discover the "Sea Radish" connection and why this pungent root is a cabbage relative.
- [The Canola Oil "Engine Lubricant" Myth: A Scientific Takedown](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:canola-oil-engine-lubricant-myth/) - Is canola oil a poisonous industrial lubricant? I perform a thorough takedown of the 1996 "mustard gas" rumors to separate botanical fact from internet fiction.
- [The Wine Aging Myth: Why 90% of Bottles are Perishable, Not Collectible](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:the-wine-aging-myth-why-90-of-bottles-are-perishable-not-collectible/) - Is aged wine better? For 90% of bottles, time is not a friend. Discover the truth about wine's shelf life & how to protect the bottle from light & heat.
- [Grade D Beef: America’s Biggest Meat Myth vs. The Actual Reality](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:what-is-grade-d-beef/) - Is Taco Bell beef really "Grade D"? Discover the truth behind this fast food meat myth, the USDA "wholesomeness" weasel word, and the reality of beef grades.
- [The Authentic Mexican Mole: More Than Just Chocolate](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:what-is-a-mexican-mole/) - Discover the real history of Mexican mole. Explore the 7 moles of Oaxaca, debunk the chocolate sauce myth, and learn to make an authentic mole amarillo at home
- [Does Beer Get Better With Age? The 99.9% Freshness Rule](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:does-beer-get-better-as-it-ages/) - Does beer get better as it ages? For 99.9% of brews, time is the enemy. Learn why your beer has a "use-by" date & which rare bottles do belong in a cellar.
- [Is Bottled Beer Better Than Canned Beer?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:is-bottled-beer-better-than-canned-beer/) - You may be noticing that more and more of your favorite craft beers are becoming available in cans. Why is this happening? Aren’t bottles superior to cans for beer? Shouldn’t craft beer, which is more expensive, use the best available containers? The answer to the second question is simple. Bottles are in no way superior to
- [5 Reasons Brazil Nuts are the Most Dangerous Snack in Your Pantry](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:interesting-facts-about-brazil-nuts/) - Brazil nuts are the only commercial nuts produced from wild trees in the Amazon rainforest. Here are some other interesting facts about the Brazil nut.
- [Yellow vs. White Onions: A Scientific Analysis of Flavor, Cultivars, and the Spanish Onion Label](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-tips:should-i-use-white-or-yellow-onions/) - Are yellow, white, and Spanish onions actually different? I break down the science of Allium cepa, flavor myths, and why "yellow vs. white onions" is mostly BS.
- [The 370-Ton Mistake: Why You Should Never Throw Away Unopened Mussels](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:the-370-ton-mussel-mistake/) - Yes, you can eat closed mussels. Don't throw them away! We use science to debunk the myth that unopened mussels are dead or bad.
- [Wok Hei is Not Magic: The Toxic Physics of the 'Breath of the Wok'](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:wok-hei-is-not-magic/) - Is Wok Hei a mystical "breath" or just the flavor of soot? Explore the hypocrisy of culinary incineration and why the "breath of the wok" is an absurdity.
- [Can I Substitute Cocoa Powder for Baking Chocolate?](https://culinarylore.com/substitutions:cocoa-for-baking-chocolate/) - Although it is not ideal, you can substitute cocoa for baking chocolate with a simple formula. But only do this in a pinch. The major difference between baking chocolate and cocoa is that baking chocolate has a lot more cocoa butter. To substitute cocoa, you have to replace this missing fat. You probably do not have any raw
- [Dried Herbs vs. Fresh Herbs: Why Dried is Sometimes Better](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:never-use-dried-herbs-in-your-cooking/) - Think dried herbs ruin your food? This guide debunks the myth, explaining when dried herbs are actually superior to fresh & how to use both for maximum flavor.
- [The Real Coleslaw Origin: 7 Fascinating Facts About This American Favorite](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:coleslaw-origin-history/) - Discover the coleslaw origin & how 17th-century Dutch "koolsla" became an American staple. Explore the etymology, from "cold slaw" myths to the history of kale.
- [The Science of the Brain Freeze or Ice Cream Headache](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:science-of-brain-freeze/) - We know the agonizing pain of a brain freeze! We don't know the cause, though. Let's explore the fascinating science of the brain freeze or ice cream headache.
- [Mexican Food Glossary: 25+ Mexican Cooking Terms & Methods](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-terms:mexican-food-glossary/) - Confused by a Mexican menu? This glossary explains 25+ essential Mexican cooking terms, like asada & relleno, explaining how your favorite dishes are prepared.
- [French Cuisine History: Haute vs. Nouvelle Styles](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-is-haute-cuisine-and-nouvelle-cuisine/) - Explore the evolution of French cooking from the elaborate traditions of Haute Cuisine to the light, fresh approach of Nouvelle Cuisine and its top chefs.
- [What Was the First Canned Beer? The Story of the 1935 "Exploding" Can](https://culinarylore.com/other:what-was-the-first-canned-beer-the-story-of-the-1935-exploding-can/) - Discover the high-stakes engineering war behind the first canned beer. From exploding 80 PSI prototypes to the secret "Vinylite" lining of Krueger’s Finest.
- [Roux 101: Your Basic Guide to Roux Mastery](https://culinarylore.com/how-to-guides:roux-101-your-basic-guide-to-roux-mastery/) - Serving as a thickener & rich flavor base for stew-based dishes, a roux is the foundation of Cajun and Creole cooking. But a proper roux can be hard to master!
- [Origin of Bouquet Garni in French Cooking](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-terms:origin-of-bouquet-garni-in-french-cooking/) - What is a bouquet garni? From 17th-century origins to pro bundling tips, learn how to master this essential French herb technique for perfect stocks.
- [Angus Burgers vs. Regular Burgers: Why Quality Cooking Matters](https://culinarylore.com/dining:angus-beef-burgers-quality-cooking/) - It seems that just about every restaurant that serves burgers, including carryout and delivery restaurants, have at least one Angus Beef Burger in place of honor on their burger menu. Angus beef is supposed to be the best beef. It is not only well-marbled and tasty, it is also economical for the beef industry. Yet, when I
- [What Is Albumin?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:what-is-albumin/) - Albumin is a class of proteins found in egg whites, milk, blood, and various plant and animal tissues. It is the most abundant type of protein found in egg whites, as well as normal human blood plasma. Albumins dissolve in water and form a semi-solid mass when heated, and this is what is responsible for egg
- [What is a "Beggar's Purse?" Appetizer?](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:beggars-purse/) - Beggar's purse is the name for an appetizer dish consisting of a mini crepe topped with a teaspoon of high-quality caviar and a dollop of Crème fraîche. The edges of the crepe are pulled up into pleats and tied with strips of chive so that the bite resembles a little purse. This name was used by
- [Broccoli Has More Protein Than Steak?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:broccoli-has-more-protein-than-steak/) - I've seen this stated on numerous websites and featured in numerous memes. It seems incredible, which, I suppose is why it's so often repeated: Broccoli has more protein than steak. Beyond meat, poultry, and fish, green veggies like broccoli don't come to mind as protein-rich foods. Beans and other legumes would be a more likely
- [Beyond the Basics: Everything You Need to Know About French Mother Sauces](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-terms:french-mother-sauces/) - Master the 5 French mother sauces and their modern cousins. From classic roux-based bases to Beurre Blanc, learn the essentials behind professional cooking.
- [Is Arsenic Really Used In Chicken Feed?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:is-arsenic-really-used-in-chicken-feed/) - Today, arsenic is known to be a dangerous toxin. However, arsenic compounds have been used in medicine for over 200 years. H.W. Thomas, for example, working in the early 1900s, found that Atoxyl (sodium hydrogen 4-aminophenylarsonate) could cure experimental trypanosomiasis. During the 1950s, it was discovered that certain arsenic compounds could affect the growth of
- [How Do We Know Which Food Chemicals Are Dangerous?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:how-do-we-know-what-food-chemicals-dangerous/) - Large amounts of arsenic will kill you. Large amounts of mercury can damage the brain and nervous system, and eventually lead to death if exposure continues. Large amounts of radiation can damage your organs, cause various cancers, and kill you if the amount is high enough. Large amounts of Vitamin A are toxic, and can
- [Origin of 'Hair of the Dog': From Rabies Cures to Cereal](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:origin-of-hair-of-the-dog-hangover-cure/) - Explore the "Hair of the Dog" hangover cure history, from ancient rabies remedies to its surprising influence on 19th-century homeopathy and the birth of the breakfast cereal industry.
- [Global G-2 8-Inch Chef's Knife Review](https://culinarylore.com/tools:global-g-2-8-inch-chef-knife/) - Is the Global G-2 the best lightweight chef's knife? We dive into its unique CROMOVA 18 steel, TIG-welded handle, and how it compares to forged German rivals.
- [Why Use Leftover Rice For Fried Rice?](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:why-use-leftover-rice-for-fried-rice/) - Fried rice can be a quick and satisfying meal, especially for those who love anything rice. Indeed, if you only equate fried rice with the soy sauce spiked stuff you get from carryout Chinese places, you have the wrong idea, entirely. Fried rice can be a quick and comforting meal you throw together, with nothing
- [How to Make Authentic Thai Curry with Store-Bought Paste](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:authentic-thai-curry-store-bought-paste/) - Stop believing the myth that authentic Thai curry requires a mortar & pestle. Learn how to use store-bought paste as a perfect base by reinforcing key flavors.
- [Do Angostura Bitters Contain Angostura?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:do-angostura-bitters-contain-angostura/) - Angostura bitters are the most popular and well-known brand of cocktail bitters. Did the product ever contain the bitter bark from the Angostura shrub?
- [The IBU Arms Race: Why 1,000 IBU Beer is a Scientific Lie](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:the-ibu-arms-race/) - From the "Fat Tire is an IPA" myth to the 1,000 IBU saturation limit: Discover the science of why the IBU Arms Race was a marketing fiction based.
- [Needle Beer: Spiked Near Beer During Prohibition](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:what-is-needle-beer/) - Needle beer was beer produced illegally during prohibition in the United States when legal low-alcohol beer was spiked with alcohol. Learn more at CulinaryLore.
- [What Is Skunked Beer? The Riboflavin & Light Science](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:what-is-skunked-beer/) - Why causes skunked beer? Is it the hops? Discover the riboflavin chemistry behind light-struck beer & how brown, green, and clear bottles compare in protection.
- [Why Do We Always Have Room For Dessert?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:why-do-we-always-have-room-for-dessert/) - The first Dorito in the bag always tastes the best. The second Dorito is pretty boss, too. Then, your Dorito high goes a little lower with each chip you eat. In fact, the same is true of any food unless it is my coconut cream pie. Did you know that this is a real and
- [What Is Black Rice Pudding?](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:what-is-black-rice-pudding/) - Black rice pudding, as the name implies, is a pudding made with black rice. The black rice that is used is black rice from China and other parts of Asia, which is a glutinous, or "sticky" rice. It is often made with coconut milk, instead of dairy milk, the way rice pudding is usually made
- [Bovril - Old Time Beef Extract](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:bovril-beef-extract/) - We didn't always know as much about nutrition as we do today. This seems like an obvious statement to make, but consider protein. Most of us know, without being told, that protein cannot be compared to a vitamin or other micro-nutrient. If there are vitamins in a plant, you can get some of those vitamins by making
- [What Does it Mean to Denature a Protein?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:what-does-it-mean-to-denature-a-protein/) - What's the Big Deal About Protein Denaturing? Raw foodies make a lot of noise about proteins being denatured by cooking and so losing their natural goodness. These ideas provide fodder for advertisers wishing to set their products apart in a busy marketplace. For example, whey protein supplements for athletes and bodybuilders represent a multi-billion dollar
- [Do You Need Living Enzymes from Your Diet to Digest Food?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:do-you-need-enzymes-from-diet-to-digest-food/) - A claim of raw food diets is that your body has a limited amount of enzymes to digest food and you must get additional enzymes from your diet. One of the claims associated with the raw food movement is that you need the "living" enzymes in raw foods to help you digest food. And furthermore, you only
- [Nondairy Creamers Like Coffee-Mate May Not Be Dairy Free](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:nondairy-creamers-coffee-mate-not-dairy-free/) - Nondairy coffee creamers are milk or cream substitutes for coffee. Some people make such substitutes out of soy, rice, or even coconut milk. Most of the store-bought coffee creamers, whether powder or liquid, however, are made from partially hydrogenated oils like soybean or cottonseed and contain other ingredients for flavor and texture. Although they say nondairy on the
- [Real vs. Fake Greek Yogurt: How to Tell the Difference](https://culinarylore.com/how-to-guides:how-can-you-tell-if-a-greek-yogurt-product-is-authentic/) - It can be hard to tell which Greek Yogurt products are authentic. In this article, I explain the difference between traditional Greek yogurt and fake products.
- [Should You Season Nonstick Pans?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:should-you-season-nonstick-pans/) - You must season certain types of pans to help render them more nonstick and to increase their lifespan while preventing rust. Among these types are cast iron pans and carbon steel. Certain manufacturers of coated nonstick cookware also recommend seasoning their nonstick pans. This would seem to make little sense as what is the point
- [What is Apple Pandowdy?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-is-apple-pandowdy/) - Apple pandowdy is an American dessert that originated in the Eastern states. In its simplest form, it could be described as an apple pot pie as it consists of apples baked in a casserole with a layer of biscuit dough on top. The modern apple brown betty is similar, except that crumbles are used on
- [Why Does My Grocery Store Rearrange Everything Randomly?](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:why-does-my-grocery-store-rearrange-everything-randomly/) - How to arrange a grocery store can't be an easy decision for owners or companies. Do you place similar items together for convenience? Do you place unalike items that are frequently purchased together next to each other? Some things never change, like the milk and dairy being at the back of the store, but the
- ["Cut In" Meaning in Cooking: Tools, How To, and Tips](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-terms:cut-in-meaning-cooking/) - To 'cut in' means to work butter or shortening into flour when making pie crust, biscuits, or pastry. Learn the proper tool and method and get practical tips.
- [What is a Sopaipilla?](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:what-is-a-sopaipilla/) - If you are a fan of Food Network's Food Network Star competition, and you tuned in on June 15, you saw Lenny "The Cowboy Chef" McNab make a big mistake during his "Cutthroat Kitchen" heat, which required the contestants to make a breakfast plate. Lenny used masa, corn flour used to make corn tortillas, to make what seemed
- [What is a Navajo Taco?](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:what-is-a-navajo-taco/) - The Navajo taco is a taco based on Navajo fry bread, sopaipilla, instead of a tortilla, sometimes known as Indian fry bread. They are topped with various taco ingredients such a refried beans, lettuce, tomato, scallions, avocado, cheese, sour cream, etc., with many variations being welcome, such as meat or chili toppings, corn, green chiles, cilantro,
- [imarku 7-Inch Santoku Chef Knife: Broken Blades, Broken Promises](https://culinarylore.com/tools:imarku-7-inch-santoku-chef-knife-broken-blades-broken-promises/) - Like many kitchen knives on Amazon, the imarku 7-Inch Santoku Chef Knife promises the world for a low price: Ultra-sharp; highly polished...what's not to like?
- [Why Doesn't Banana Flavoring Taste Exactly Like Bananas?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:why-doesnt-banana-flavoring-taste-exactly-like-bananas/) - Is banana flavoring based on an extinct banana? Explore the science of isoamyl acetate, the Gros Michel myth, and why 'n=1' tastings don't prove the truth.
- [What Do Chefs Mean by Vegetal Flavor?](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:what-do-chefs-mean-by-vegetal-flavor/) - Vegetal is a term chefs often apply to food, but more appropriately applied to tea, wine, or beer. Learn the meaning of this term and the flavors it describes.
- [Do Italians Only Eat Fresh Pasta?](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:do-italians-only-eat-fresh-pasta/) - If you believe the picture-perfect postcards, every meal in Italy begins with a nonna hand-rolling egg pasta on a floured wooden board. We’ve been sold a romanticized vision where 'authentic' Italian food must be made from scratch every single day. But if you step out of the tourist traps and into a local Italian supermercato,
- [MAC Professional Chef's Knife: Sharpness vs. Durability](https://culinarylore.com/tools:mac-professional-chefs-knife-sharpness-vs-durability/) - Is the MAC Professional Chef's knife worth the hype? We cover its surgical sharpness, the fad of hollow-edge blades, and why durability might disappoint cooks.
- [Wüsthof Classic 8-Inch Chef's Knife: The Ultimate Workhorse](https://culinarylore.com/tools:wusthof-classic-8-inch-review/) - Is the Wüsthof Classic 8-inch Chef's Knife still the industry standard? We dive into technical specs, PEtec sharpness, and the forged vs. stamped knife myth
- [Do IPA Beers or Hoppy Beers Last Longer?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:do-ipa-beers-or-hoppy-beers-last-longer/) - Do IPA beers actually last longer? Discover the science of hop shelf life, why bitterness isn't a preservative, and how 18th-century brews survived the ocean.
- [The Hottest Chili Peppers in the World (2026 Rankings)](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:the-hottest-chili-peppers-in-the-world/) - Who is the new King of Heat? Discover the current world's hottest chili peppers for 2026, from the record-breaking Pepper X to the legendary Carolina Reaper.
- [Beer is Better in Chilled Glasses or Frosted Mugs?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:beer-is-better-in-chilled-glasses-or-frosted-mugs/) - I'll admit that a frosted beer mug seems like a great idea, especially on a hot summer's day. Many bars serve beers in chilled glasses or frosted mugs or glasses. Lest you think that a frosted glass leads to a colder beer which leads to a better tasting beer, think again. An Icy Beer May
- [Is Beer More Relaxing Than Other Alcohol? The Science of Hops and Hordenine](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:is-beer-more-relaxing-than-other-alcohol/) - Is beer actually more relaxing than liquor? Discover the 2026 science of humulone, GABA modulation, and why beer acts as a unique botanical sedative.
- [Building Chili Pepper Tolerance: How We Get Used to the Heat](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:building-chili-pepper-tolerance/) - Ever wonder why chili lovers crave more heat? Discover the science of capsaicin desensitization, the endorphin high, & how to build chili pepper tolerance!
- [Why Does Eating Chili Peppers Make You Feel Warm?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:why-does-eating-chili-peppers-make-you-feel-warm/) - Ever wonder why spicy food makes you sweat? Discover the "dark box" science of thermoregulation and how capsaicin tricks your brain into feeling overheated.
- [Is the Heat in Chili Peppers Found in the Seeds?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:do-chili-seeds-have-heat/) - Does the heat in a chili pepper really come from the seeds? Discover the botanical truth about the ribs and why the seeds are only hot by association.
- [Why Remove the Seeds from Chili Peppers? The Flavor Perspective](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:should-you-remove-the-seeds-from-chili-peppers/) - Discover why modern Asian chefs often remove chili seeds for better flavor. Learn the science of heat vs. flavor & why deseeding isn't "weak" but best choice!
- [Does the Average Person Really Swallow 8 Spiders Per Year?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:does-the-average-person-swallow-8-spiders-per-year/) - Did you know that you are never more than two feet from a spider? Or maybe it's a foot. But is it true that you swallow at least 8 spiders a year in your sleep?
- [Is Margarine Really One Molecule Away From Plastic?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:is-margarine-really-one-molecule-away-from-plastic/) - Is margarine really "one molecule away" from plastic? Discover why this viral claim is a chemical misunderstanding of plasticity and food science.
- [Does Margarine Really Never Go Bad? The Garage Test Myth Debunked](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:does-margarine-really-never-go-bad/) - Does margarine never go bad? Explore the science of hydrolytic rancidity and why the viral margarine garage test and fruit fly myth are scientifically false.
- [FD&C Yellow No. 5: The "Lemon Yellow" Dye (Tartrazine)](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:fdc-yellow-no-5-lemon-yellow/) - Learn about FD&C Yellow No. 5 (Tartrazine). Discover its Lemon Yellow uses in snacks & soda, its history since 1884, & the facts on aspirin cross-sensitivity.
- [Why the Microwave Popcorn Button is a Lie (and What to Do)](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:why-the-microwave-popcorn-button-is-a-lie-and-what-to-do/) - Don’t be fooled: your microwave popcorn button is a fire hazard. Learn why "smart" sensors fail and why the "listen" method is the only way to avoid burnt corn.
- [Does Black Pepper Have a Scoville Rating?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:does-black-pepper-have-a-scoville-rating/) - Does black pepper have a Scoville rating? Discover why piperine and capsaicin are in different chemical universes and why the Scoville scale doesn't apply.
- [The Scoville Scale Explained: From 1912 History to Modern HPLC](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:the-scoville-scale-explained/) - What is the Scoville Scale? Learn the history of Wilbur Scoville, how Scoville Heat Units (SHU) are measured today, and why ASTA Pungency Units matter.
- [Cholula Scoville Rating: Surprising Truths About Its Heat](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:cholula-scoville-rating/) - How hot is Cholula? See the official Cholula Scoville, how it compares to Tabasco, and the authentic Sangrita recipe that started the brand.
- [What is a Beurre Manié?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-terms:what-is-beurre-manie/) - Beurre manié is a French cooking term meaning “kneaded butter.” It is a thickening agent that uses the same ingredients as a roux, flour and butter, but the ingredients are not cooked together from the beginning. Instead, equal amounts of butter and flours are rubbed or kneaded together to make a paste. This paste can
- [What's Difference Between a Roux and a Béchamel Sauce?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-terms:what-is-the-difference-between-a-roux-and-a-bechamel-sauce/) - The reason that the terms roux and béchamel can be confusing is that a bechamel is made from a roux. A roux is the technique of cooking flour in fat or oil. Most often, butter is used, but other fats or oils can also be used. A béchamel is made by whisking milk into this
- [What is the Origin of 'Vittles' for Food?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:vittles-origin/) - What is the true vittles meaning? It’s not just cowboy slang. Discover the 700-year history of this word and the strange reason scholars tried to change it.
- [What is Scrapple and What Does it Contain?](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:what-is-scrapple-and-what-does-it-contain/) - Scrapple is a traditional Pennsylvania Dutch sausage loaf made from pork, cornmeal, & spices. Discover its German panhas origins, and what's inside it.
- [Marco Polo and His Chinese Pasta: Legend or Fact?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:marco-polo-and-chinese-pasta/) - Most believe Marco Polo brought noodles to Italy from China, introducing the concept of pasta. However, it is more legend than fact. Discover the true history.
- [Restaurant Side Work: Common Examples & Federal Rules](https://culinarylore.com/dining:restaurant-side-work-common-examples-federal-rules/) - What is restaurant side work? Learn common examples of FOH duties for servers and the federal 80/20/30 rules that protect tipped employees from exploitation.
- [Waiter Tip: How To Make Sure They Understand Their Order](https://culinarylore.com/dining:waiter-tip-how-to-let-guests-know-what-they-ordered/) - One of the primary problems that waiters, especially in fine dining restaurants, face is customers ordering items without understanding what they are, and then sending them back, or even becoming angry that they weren't informed of what they were actually ordering. For the waiter, it is not always clear when to explain something and when not
- [From Saci to FairLife: Coca-Cola’s Long Quest for the Perfect Protein Drink](https://culinarylore.com/sodas:coca-cola-saci-protein-history/) - Before FairLife, there was Saci. Explore the surprising history of Coca-Cola’s 1960s effort to market a high-protein chocolate drink in Brazil, & why it failed.
- ["Appliance Only" Distilled Water: The Labeling Scam](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:appliance-distilled-water-label-scam/) - Is distilled water for appliances safe to drink? Learn how bottled water companies use "Strategic Omission" to sell you the same water twice.
- [Reheating Leftovers Safely: A Guide for Chili, Soups, and Sauces](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:reheating-leftovers-safely/) - Is it safe to reheat the entire pot of leftovers? Learn the golden rule of reheating leftovers safely to stay out of the danger zone and preserve quality.
- ['What's Hidden in My Ketchup' Article Debunked](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:whats-hidden-in-my-ketchup-article-debunked/) - One of my missions on Culinary Lore is to debunk food and nutrition misinformation. But, rarely have I been as shocked by the sheer volume of misinformation in one article as I was by this piece on Medium.com called 'What's Hidden in My Ketchup?' Since the article appears at the top of Google results for a
- [Ditch the Dry Pork: Why You Don't Need to Cook It Well Done to Avoid Trichinosis](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:do-you-have-to-cook-pork-until-its-well-done-to-avoid-trichinosis/) - This article debunks two myths about pork: 1) the need to cook pork until it's well done to avoid trichinosis (trichonelosis), and 2) a myth within the myth.
- [What does 86 Mean in Restaurant Jargon?](https://culinarylore.com/dining:what-does-86-mean/) - The number 86 is used as a verb in restaurant jargon. It's also become a common idiom. Don't 86 this article. Find out the meaning and history of this popular restaurant lingo.
- [Restaurant Seating Jargon: Covers, Two-Tops, and Deuces Explained](https://culinarylore.com/dining:restaurant-seating-jargon-covers-tops/) - Master restaurant seating jargon from covers & deuces to two-tops. Learn why 'covers' are the ultimate success metric & how alcohol changes the 'turn' equation.
- [What Is the Kitchen Brigade System? The Ultimate Culinary Guide](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:kitchen-brigade-system/) - Learn how Georges-Auguste Escoffier revolutionized French cuisine with the kitchen brigade system. Explore the hierarchy and roles of modern haute cuisine.
- [Lite vs. Light: Why No One Owns the "Lite" Beer Trademark](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:lite-vs-light-beer-trademark/) - Why is Miller Lite spelled with an 'i'? Discover the legal battle where Miller tried to own the Lite trademark & lost because it was ruled generic from day one.
- [The False Hindu Origin of "Butter Someone Up"](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:on-the-false-hindu-origin-of-butter-someone-up/) - Does "butter someone up" come from an ancient Hindu custom? Discover why this popular origin story is a myth and learn the true history of this 1600s idiom.
- [The Taco Tongue: Why Over-pronouncing Food Words Isn't Correct](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:overpronouncing-borrowed-food-words/) - Is over-pronouncing words like taco correct or just pretentious? Learn about hyperforeignism, phonological nativization, & why borrowed food words are English.
- [The Poisonous History Behind 'A Grain of Salt'](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:why-do-we-say-take-with-a-grain-of-salt/) - Think 'a grain of salt' just means being skeptical? The true origin involves an ancient king, a literal poison antidote & Pliny the Elder. Read the weird tale.
- [Possible Origins of the Word "Bistro"](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:possible-origins-of-the-word-bistro/) - Nowadays you can call any restaurant a Bistro, if you so choose, and you just like the French connection, or you want to set a mood, etc. Using the word bistro to describe a restaurant or as part of the name of a restaurant, has become so widespread and is used in so many different
- [The "Medically Reviewed" Smoke Screen: Heavy Metals in Collagen](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:the-medically-reviewed-smoke-screen-heavy-metals-in-collagen/) - Learn how supplement companies use "medically reviewed" deep-dives as a trust-signal smoke screen to hide a lack of actual heavy metal batch testing.
- [How Many Slices of Bacon for 1 Cup Crumbled?](https://culinarylore.com/measurements:how-many-slices-of-bacon-for-crumbled-cups/) - How many slices of bacon for a cup of crumbles? Most tables are wrong. Use our real-world 'Bacon Math' guide to see why 4 slices only equals 1/4 cup.
- [David Protein Bars: The Return of the Olestra "Anal Leakage" Era?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:david-protein-bars-the-return-of-the-olestra-anal-leakage-era/) - David Protein Bars are being hailed as a breakthrough, but is EPG just Olestra 2.0? Explore the "Fat System" marketing and the proprietary moat behind the hype.
- [What Happens If You Drink Expired Soda?](https://culinarylore.com/sodas:what-happens-if-you-drink-expired-soda/) - What happens if you drink expired Coca-Cola or Pepsi? Learn about the safety of expired soda, how to read bottle caps, & what Julian codes mean.
- [How Much is a Fifth of Alcohol? Bottle Sizes Explained](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:how-much-is-a-fifth-of-liquor-and-why-is-it-called-that/) - Find out how much is in a fifth of alcohol, why it's called a fifth, and how many cocktails you can make? Includes a guide to modern metric liquor bottle sizes.
- [Liqueur Guide: Definitions, History, and Popular Brands](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:what-is-a-liqueur/) - Discover what makes a liqueur unique. Learn about the history of medicinal elixirs, the origin of "spirits," and explore an extensive list of popular brands.
- [Why is Alcohol Called Spirits?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:why-is-alcohol-called-spirits/) - Ever wonder why is alcohol called spirits? It’s not just fancy industry talk—it’s a story of ancient alchemy and the breath of life. Discover the origin here.
- [Grizzly Bear Forts & Kelp Stills: The True Story Behind ‘Hooch’](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:origin-of-the-word-hooch-for-liquor/) - Although you may not hear it often today, the term hooch used to be popular slang for liquor, and some old-timers may still use it. Where did this word come from?
- [Where Did Whiskey Come From? The History of the Word and the Spirit](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:where-did-whiskey-come-from/) - Where did whiskey come from? Trace its history from medieval monks to its Gaelic roots. Learn why we spell it with an "e" and how it became a spirit.
- [How do Artificial Sweeteners Trick Our Taste Buds into Thinking They're Sugar?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:how-do-artificial-sweeteners-trick-our-taste-buds-into-thinking-theyre-sugar/) - Do artificial sweeteners really trick your brain? Learn the science of sweet ligands, why Ace-K is used in blends, and how we perceive sweetness vs. sugar
- [What is Acesulfame Potassium (Ace-K)? The "Synergy" Sweetener](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:acesulfame-potassium-guide/) - Does Ace-K contain methylene chloride? We look at FDA purity data, the 40 ppb limit, and why brands like Sweet One® are safe. Get the facts on this sweetener.
- [What is the Difference Between Boiling, Simmering, and Poaching?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-terms:difference-between-boiling-simmering-poaching/) - Most of us know what it means to boil a food. We do it with dried pasta when we bring water to a rolling boil and put in the pasta. Even if we reduce the heat of the burner to stop the pot from boiling over, we are still boiling the pasta. But, what does
- [My Recipe Calls for Eggs in Cup Amounts - How Many Eggs?](https://culinarylore.com/measurements:eggs-in-cup-amounts/) - Need to know how many eggs in a cup or how many egg whites in a cup? Use this guide to figure out the basic yields for eggs in cups as well as 1/4, 1/2, and 3/4 cup amounts.
- [The Marinade Myth: Why Soaking Your Meat Doesn't Actually Work](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:the-marinade-myth/) - Many believe that a marinading meat is essential but its efficacy is often exaggerated. Here are some surprising facts about marinades you probably didn't know!
- [What is Meat? The Biological, Cultural, and Controversial Truth](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:what-is-meat/) - What exactly is meat? Explore the culinary, technical, and cultural definitions of meat, including the origins of the word and why fish is often excluded.
- [What is the Difference Between Sour and Tart Tastes?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:what-is-the-difference-between-sour-and-tart/) - Technically, there's no difference between sour and tart. However, some culinary experts differentiate tart flavors from sour flavors. Learn more at CulinaryLore.
- [The Ultimate Air Fryer Reheating Cheat Sheet](https://culinarylore.com/how-to-guides:the-ultimate-air-fryer-reheating-cheat-sheet/) - Stop eating rubbery, microwaved leftovers. Most people bought an air fryer for "healthy" cooking, but its true superpower is food rehabilitation. From soggy fries and $30 ribeyes to frozen Uncrustables, this is the definitive guide to the exact times and temperatures you need to save your meal. No recipes, no stories—just the facts.
- [The Air Fryer Stovetop Method: Flexibility Over Presets](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-tips:the-air-fryer-stovetop-method/) - Stop following rigid air fryer presets. Learn the 'Stovetop Method' to master temperature, surface texture, and flexibility for perfect results every time.
- [How Many Carrots in a Pound + Other Carrot Amounts](https://culinarylore.com/measurements:how-many-carrots-in-a-pound/) - If a recipe calls for 4 cups of chopped carrots, how many pounds of carrots do you need to buy? What about other amounts? Find out how many carrots you need to buy.
- [What is Autolyzed Yeast Extract and Why Is It Used In Foods?](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:what-is-autolyzed-yeast-extract-in-foods/) - Autolyzed yeast extract is a food ingredient or additive that comes as a liquid, paste, powder, or in a granular state. It is used as a flavoring agent or enhancer, and as a firming agent. It comes from yeast that has been specially treated. How Autolyzed Yeast Extract is Made Autolyzed yeast is produced by allowing
- [Thick, Sweet, and Velvety: A Guide to Crème Liqueurs](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:creme-liqueurs/) - Master the world of crème liqueurs. From the velvety texture of Crème de Menthe to the jammy depth of Cassis, learn how these syrupy spirits define the bar.
- [Onion Sizes & Cup Amounts: Small, Medium, and Large Defined](https://culinarylore.com/measurements:onion-sizes-and-amounts-chopped/) - How much chopped onion is in a medium onion? Discover the weights and cup measurements for small, medium, and large onions so you never ruin a recipe again.
- [Nature's Penicillin? Why Eating Moldy Bread Won't Cure an Infection](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:why-eating-moldy-bread-wont-cure-an-infection/) - Can eating moldy bread cure an infection? Discover the "Hardy Ancestor" fallacy and the science of why stomach acid makes wild penicillin biologically useless.
- [What to Do if A Grocery Store Cashier is Rude to You?](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:what-to-do-if-a-grocery-store-cashier-is-rude/) - Why do we get so angry at "slow" cashiers? Discover the psychology of the Fundamental Attribution Error and how Bruce Lee’s Zen wisdom can save your mood.
- [Is the Dairy Industry Trying To Sneak Aspartame Into Milk?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:aspartame-in-milk-labeling-petition/) - Is there hidden aspartame in your milk? Discover the truth behind the 2013 dairy industry petition and the FDA's final 2023 ruling on milk labeling laws.
- [The Bundt Cake Trademark: Why Nordic Ware Still Owns the Name](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:the-bundt-cake-trademark/) - Is Bundt a trademark or a generic term? Discover the legal battle between Nordic Ware and the USPTO, and how the 'Tunnel of Fudge' cake changed everything.
- [Why Only Zatarain’s 'Owns' the Word Fish-Fri in New Orleans](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:zatarains-fish-fri-and-chick-fri-trademarks/) - Can you own a common term like 'Fish Fry'? Discover why Zatarain’s only 'owns' the Fish-Fri trademark in New Orleans in this landmark regional food law case.
- [Is Chocolate Milk Really Made From Expired Milk?](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:is-chocolate-milk-really-made-from-expired-milk/) - Is chocolate milk made from expired milk or hidden blood? We debunk viral myths, explain why it's thicker than white milk, and guide you on its shelf life.
- [Slurpee vs. ICEE: Same or Different?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:slurpee-vs-icee/) - Learn the truth behind the age-old debate about Slurpee vs. ICEE & the shared history of the drinks, as well as the difference between similar frozen drinks.
- [What Was the First Commercial Mayonnaise Brand?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-was-the-first-commercial-mayonnaise/) - From a 1756 French Mother Sauce to a global staple, discover who invented the first commercial mayonnaise & the science that made this emulsion "jar-ready."
- [What Does "Salt To Taste" Mean in a Recipe?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:what-does-salt-to-taste-mean-in-a-recipe/) - What does it mean when a recipe says "salt to taste?" Does this mean you should adds salt until it tastes salty? The key is is recognizing that salt is a seasoning, not a flavoring.
- [Fleur de Sel vs. Kosher Salt: What is the Real Difference?](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:fleur-de-sel-vs-kosher-salt/) - Fleur de sel vs. kosher salt: Is the expensive French sea salt worth it? Learn the "Beef Stew Test," the science of salt perception, and when to save your money.
- [The Real Difference Between Seasonings and Flavorings](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:difference-between-seasonings-and-flavorings/) - Is salt a seasoning or a flavoring? Most people get it wrong. Learn the 'Caramel vs. Soup' rule to master your kitchen's balance.
- [Why Use Kosher Salt? The Math vs. The Myth](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:why-do-tv-chefs-always-use-kosher-salt/) - Why use kosher salt? Discover the truth about the "koshering" salt name scam, the dangerous math of salt substitutions, and why the "pinch" is a myth.
- [Sea Salt vs. Regular Salt: The Health Myth Explained](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:difference-between-sea-salt-and-regular-salt/) - Is sea salt healthier than regular salt? Discover the truth about sodium levels, why the "trace mineral" hype is a myth, and why all salt is actually sea salt.
- [Why Is Salt Used in Food? The 3 Scientific Reasons](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:why-is-salt-used-in-food/) - Why is salt used in food? Is it just for saltiness? Learn the science of how salt is used to suppress bitterness, release aromas, & enhance flavor perception.
- [Colewort: The Medieval Missing Link of the Cabbage Family](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:colewort-the-medieval-missing-link-of-the-cabbage-family/) - Discover the history of Colewort, the medieval ancestor of cabbage and the linguistic "missing link" that evolved into the Southern favorite, collard greens.
- [Origin Of The Word Condiment](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-of-the-word-condiment/) - Explore the fascinating linguistic history of the word "condiment." From the Latin "condire" (to preserve) to modern sauces, we trace how its meaning evolved.
- [What Happened To Sizzlean Bacon? The Surprising Truth](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-happened-to-sizzlean-bacon/) - What happened to Sizzlean? Discover why this iconic '80s bacon alternative disappeared, what it was actually made of, & the truth behind its 50% leaner claim.
- [The Meaning of Coulis: From Meat Juices to Modern Sauce](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-terms:what-is-a-coulis/) - What is a coulis? Define the modern koo-LEE (strained fruit/veggie sauce) and explore its history from 14th-century meat juices to modern plating.
- [Santoku Knife: What is it Used For? (Pros, Cons & Cost](https://culinarylore.com/tools:what-is-a-santoku-knife-used-for/) - A Santoku knife is a multipurpose Japanese kitchen tool for slicing, dicing, & mincing. Learn why it favors a "push cut" & how it differs from a chef's knife.
- [Is Parchment Paper Flammable? Max Temperature & Safety Guide](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:is-parchment-paper-flammable/) - Is parchment paper flammable? Learn the actual temperature limits of parchment paper, why it turns brown, and the #1 air fryer mistake that causes fires.
- [Why We Believe Viral Food Myths: Potemkin Numbers](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:potemkin-numbers-why-we-believe-viral-food-myths/) - Learn how "Proofiness" & Potemkin numbers create a facade of truth in food myths. From margarine molecules to swallowing spiders, see why exact digits fool us.
- [Aluminum Foil Shiny Side Up or Down? The Scientific Truth](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:aluminum-foil-shiny-side-up-or-down/) - Does it matter which side of aluminum foil faces up? No. While the shiny side is more reflective, it makes zero difference in a home oven. Here’s the science.
- [What Happened to Colombo Yogurt? The Mystery of an American Icon](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-happened-to-colombo-yogurt/) - Colombo yogurt was America's first yogurt icon—so why did it vanish? The 2026 truth behind the brand's 'Corporate Neglect' and where you can still find it.
- [What is the Origin of the Word Soy in Soy Sauce?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-is-the-origin-of-the-word-soy/) - Is there a difference between soy & soya sauce? Discover the origin of the word soy, how a 1600s spelling slip named the bean & the truth behind soy boy myths.
- [Fresh vs. Dry Pasta: Is Fresh Superior?](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:is-fresh-pasta-superior-to-dried/) - s fresh pasta always better than dry? Discover the real differences in taste and texture, and why the 'fresh is best' rule is a culinary myth.
- [Is Spaghetti Done When It Sticks to the Wall? (The Myth)](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:is-spaghetti-done-when-it-sticks-to-wall/) - Is spaghetti done when it sticks to the wall? Learn why this common kitchen myth is actually a recipe for overcooked pasta and the real science of al dente.
- [Is There an Angostura Bitters Substitute?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:is-there-an-angostura-bitters-substitute/) - Can you substitute Angostura bitters? While there is no kitchen hack for the Old Fashioned, any professional bitters can work. Learn the flavor trade-offs!
- [Does Alcohol Really Cook Off? (The 5% Rule vs. Reality)](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:the-truth-about-whether-alcohol-burns-off-during-cooking/) - Does alcohol really burn off? Technically no, but the truth is surprising: Your dinner sauce likely has less alcohol than a ripe banana. Discover the real science.
- [What is Fleur de Sel? The Science and Myths of "Flower Salt"](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:what-is-fleur-de-sel/) - Is Fleur de Sel worth the price? Explore the science of salt perception, the "Beef Stew Test," and why texture—not flavor—is the only real difference.
- [Why is There No Non-Carbonated Coke? The Chemistry of the Fizz](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:why-is-there-no-non-carbonated-coke-the-chemistry-of-the-fizz/) - Why is there no non-carbonated Coke? From its history as a medicinal tonic to the chemistry of carbonic acid, discover why Coca-Cola needs its bubbles!
- [How Many People Die From Coconuts? (The 150 Deaths Myth)](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:do-falling-coconuts-really-kill-150-people-a-year/) - How many people die from coconuts in reality? I trace the "coconut vs. shark" myth back to its 1984 origins and look at the real medical data from the Pacific.
- [Can You Eat Raw Pasta? Why It’s Not Safe (And Hard to Digest)](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:can-you-eat-raw-pasta/) - Can you eat raw pasta? While many enjoy the crunch, it is an untreated product that is not safe to consume. Learn about the bacterial & digestive risks.
- [Why is Kobe Beef So Expensive? (Price & How to Spot Fakes)](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:why-is-kobe-beef-so-expensive/) - Why is Kobe beef so expensive? Learn the truth about Japanese Kobe beef prices, the 10-digit ID verification system, and why most 'Kobe' in the U.S. is a scam
- [Why is Saffron the World's Most Expensive Spice? (And How to Spot Fakes)](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:why-is-saffron-so-expensive/) - Why is saffron so expensive? Discover why 'Red Gold' costs $5,000 a pound and learn the simple cold water test to spot fake saffron made of silk or horsehair.
- [Maine vs. Rock Lobster Tails: The Red Lobster Guide](https://culinarylore.com/dining:maine-lobster-rock-lobster-difference-red-lobster/) - Maine vs. Rock lobster tails: Why is Rock lobster only served as tails at Red Lobster? Discover the taste difference & why one is fresh & the other is frozen.
- [Nectarine vs. Plum: Is a Nectarine a Peach-Plum Hybrid?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:people-thought-nectarines-were-a-cross-between-the-peach-and-plum/) - Nectarine vs. Plum: Discover why people once believed nectarines were a peach-plum hybrid. Learn the real genetics behind stone fruits and how they compare.
- [Heavy Metal Supplement Limits: A Consumer Cheat Sheet](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:heavy-metal-supplement-limits-a-consumer-cheat-sheet/) - Compare heavy metal supplement limits for lead, arsenic, & cadmium from the FDA, Prop 65, & USP. Use this cheat sheet to decode supplement lab reports & COAs.
- [Do Dietary Supplements Require FDA Approval Before Being Sold?](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:https-culinarylore-com-food-lawdo-dietary-supplements-require-fda-approval-before-being-sold/) - Do dietary supplements need FDA approval? Learn the truth about the "safe until proven unsafe" standard, marketing claim myths & the reality of clinical trials.
- [Origin of "I Scream, You Scream" and the First Eskimo Pie](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:i-scream-you-scream-ice-cream/) - Discover the 1921 origin of the I-Scream Bar, the world's first chocolate-coated ice cream. Learn how Eskimo Pie became Edy's Pie & the story behind the song.
- [Five Useful Tips Mastering Fried Eggs](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-tips:five-useful-tips-for-becoming-a-fried-egg-master/) - Getting a perfect fried egg can be a daunting task. Despite all the high-faulutin talk from chefs about complex culinary techniques, it is the simplest things that can be the most difficult in the kitchen. Fried chicken has stymied many on accomplished home cook and fried can be just as hard to master. People make
- [Is It Possible to Pasteurize Milk at Home?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:is-it-possible-to-pasteurize-milk-at-home/) - Yes, you can pasteurize milk at home and yes boiling and rapidly cooling can be used to pasteurize at home. It is unlikely that home pasteurization will be a perfect substitute for commercial pasteurization. However, it can be done and it will work. There are a few methods you can use. The last step is
- [Should You Be Worried About Botulism in Honey?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:should-you-be-worried-about-botulism-in-honey/) - The risk of botulism poisoning from honey consumption is a frequent concern. It is true that botulism spores (Clostridium botulism) may be present in honey. For this reason honey should never be given to children under the age of one year, as their intestines are not yet able to handle botulism spores, which may colonize
- [Can You Use Aluminum Foil to Sharpen Scissors?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:can-you-use-aluminum-foil-to-sharpen-scissors/) - Scissor sharpening hack: Fold a sheet of aluminum foil several times to make thick piece and then cut through it with your scissors. Wala! Your scissors are sharp. Too good to be true?
- [Can You Use Aluminum Foil in the Microwave?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:can-you-use-aluminum-foil-in-the-microwave/) - Can you use aluminum foil in the microwave oven? Yes, technically. But it's a bad idea! Learn the reasons why you should avoid aluminum in the microwave.
- [The Huge Maxwell House 1990 Branding Mistake](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:the-huge-maxwell-house-1990-branding-mistake/) - Ready-to-drink coffee products are common. Yet, Maxwell House made a mistake by releasing one in 1990. Find out what went wrong in this huge marketing blunder.
- [Did People Actually Like New Coke Better?](https://culinarylore.com/sodas:did-people-actually-like-new-coke-better/) - In taste-tests, Coca-Cola found that people liked the sweeter New Coke better than the classic formula! Yet, the public was outraged when New Coke hit the shelves. What happened?
- [Banning Artificial Colors: Food Deserts and Minority Rule](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:banning-artificial-colors-food-deserts-and-minority-rule/) - Do those who loudly complain about banning artificial colors and other food additives represent all of us or is this a case of minority rule of food? Have they heard of food deserts?
- [What is a Banquette in a Restaurant?](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:what-is-a-banquette-in-a-restaurant/) - In a restaurants, banquette is a padded bench with a cushioned seat and back. They are used in "banquette seating," easily confused with booths. Learn more at Culinary Lore.
- [What's the Difference Between Sprinkles and Jimmies on Ice Cream?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:whats-the-difference-between-sprinkles-and-jimmies-on-ice-cream/) - Ever wondered why some call them jimmies while others say sprinkles? Discover the regional history behind these ice cream toppers and settle the debate!
- [Move Over All Clad, Here Comes the LEGEND 10-Piece Multi-Ply Cookware Set](https://culinarylore.com/tools:move-over-all-clad-here-comes-the-legend-10-piece-multi-ply-cookware-set/) - If you’re looking for a durable & high-performing steel and aluminum-clad cooking set, you should look at the LEGEND COOKWARE 3-Ply Stainless Steel Set
- [Yes, We Have No Bananas: Story of a 1920s Sensation](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:yes-we-have-no-bananas-the-most-popular-catchphrase-of-the-1920s/) - What is the origin of the phrase "Yes, We Have No Bananas"? Learn about the hit 1923 song, its cultural impact, and how it became a 1920s pop culture staple.
- [Do Italians Dip Bread in Olive Oil?](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:do-italians-dip-bread-in-olive-oil/) - Is dipping bread in olive oil a real Italian tradition or an American invention? I explore the truth behind 'Italian butter' and common tourist myths.
- [What's So Special About McDonald's Fountain Coca-Cola?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:whats-so-special-about-mcdonalds-fountain-coca-cola/) - McDonald's customers often feel that a McDonald's fountain Coca-Cola is better than other fountain Cokes. Why is this? Is it a special syrup or other factors?
- [Is the Pomato Real? The Truth About the Tomato-Potato Plant](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:is-the-pomato-real/) - Is the pomato real? Yes—but it's not a genetic hybrid. The pomato plant is a real grafting marvel that grows tomatoes on top and potatoes below. Learn how!
- [Is It Cheaper to Own Chickens or Buy Eggs?](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:is-it-cheaper-to-own-chickens-or-buy-eggs/) - With egg costs skyrocketing, it's natural that people ask whether raising your own hens can save money on eggs. Is raising hens cheaper than buying eggs?
- [How to Complain About The Food In a Restaurant: The Expert Guide](https://culinarylore.com/dining:how-to-complain-about-the-food-in-a-restaurant-the-right-way/) - Learn how to complain about food in a restaurant the right way. Use these diner etiquette tips to get your meal fixed quickly without being a difficult guest.
- [Scientists Unlock the Mysterious Origin of the Potato](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:scientists-unlock-the-mysterious-origin-of-the-potato/) - First cultivated in the Andes Mountains of South America, the potato plant has long presented a mystery to botanists. Where did it come from?
- [Is it True that Margarine Was Once Dyed Pink?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:is-it-true-that-margarine-was-once-dyed-pink/) - Examining the claim that margarine, due to dairy industry pressure, was once required to be dyed pink so that nobody could mistake it for butter.
- [The McDonald's Scalding Coffee Case is Not Unique](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:the-mcdonalds-scalding-coffee-case-is-not-unique/) - The McDonald's scalding coffee lawsuit brought by Stella Liebeck in 1992 was not the only scalding coffee case brought by someone severely burned by hot coffee.
- [Thaw Overnight in the Fridge Doesn't Work!](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:thaw-overnight-in-the-fridge-doesnt-work/) - Why do people say to thaw overnight in the refrigerator when it doesn't work? It often takes much longer than 24 hours to defrost something in the fridge.
- [Can You Make Cookies with Self-Rising Flour?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-tips:can-you-make-cookies-with-self-rising-flour/) - Even if a cookie recipe uses baking powder, self-rising flour still cannot be used. If you don't have all-purpose flour, can you even make cookies at all? Yes!
- [Is Eating Bear Liver Deadly?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:is-eating-bear-liver-deadly/) - According to internet rumors, eating bear liver is deadly toxic! Like many such rumors, there is a grain of this. Learn why the Inuit never eat Polar bear liver.
- [Are Szechuan Peppercorns and Black Peppercorns Related?](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:are-szechuan-peppercorns-and-black-peppercorns-related/) - Many cooking sources recommend substituting black pepper for Szechuan peppercorns. While this will deliver pungency, the flavor is not a very close match at all.
- [Israeli Chopped Salad to Go With Falafal](https://culinarylore.com/recipes:israeli-chopped-salad-to-go-with-falafal/) - American falafel toppings are similar to the everyday 'Israeli Salad,' the traditional topping in Israel. Find an easy recipe at CulinaryLore.
- [When Can Children Learn to Cook?](https://culinarylore.com/how-to-guides:when-can-children-learn-to-cook/) - Learn when children are ready to start cooking safely. Discover age-appropriate kitchen tasks, from stirring at age 2 to mastering meals by age 13.
- [Shepherd’s Pie vs. Cottage Pie: Is There Really a Difference?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:shepherds-pie-vs-cottage-pie-is-there-really-a-difference/) - Explore the real history of Shepherd's Pie vs. Cottage Pie. Is the difference really lamb or beef, or is there more to the story? Uncover the culinary truth.
- [FD&C Green No. 3: Fast Green FCF](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:fdc-green-no-3/) - Learn about FD&C Green No. 3 (Fast Green FCF). Discover its unique sea-green hue, why it's less common than other dyes, and its current regulatory status in the U.S. and EU.
- [Mercer Culinary Genesis 8-Inch Chef's Knife (M21078) Review](https://culinarylore.com/tools:mercer-culinary-genesis-8-inch-chefs-knife-m21078-review/) - Mercer Culinary Genesis 8-Inch Review: Is it as good as a Wüsthof? We break down the forged vs. stamped myth & why this budget knife is a 2026 pro favorite.
- [The Mirage of the "Best Chef's Knife" Review](https://culinarylore.com/tools:the-mirage-of-the-best-chefs-knife-review/) - Don't be fooled by "Best Chef's Knife" lists. Explore the tropes of the review industry, from fake "scientific" tests to the mirage of out-of-the-box sharpness.
- [Cool As a Cucumber Origin: Are Cucumbers Really Cold?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:are-cucumbers-really-cold/) - What do cucumbers have to do with coolness? The inside of a cucumber is cooler than the outside air. But, this may not be why we say cool as a cucumber!
- [Why Did Popeye the Sailor Love Spinach?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:why-did-popeye-the-sailor-love-spinach/) - Why did Popeye the Sailor love spinach? Explore the true history of the cartoon icon, from the decimal point error myth to the real science of iron absorption.
- [The Origin of the Word Barbecue: A Deep Dive into Barbecue Etymology](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-of-word-barbecue/) - Discover the true origin of the word barbecue. I debunk the 'beard-to-tail' myth and explore the real barbecue etymology from the Taino sacred fire pit.
- [Picnic Etymology: Origin of the Word and the Racism Myth](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:picnic-etymology/) - Discover the true picnic etymology and word origin. While a common urban legend suggests a racist history, the real roots are 17th-century French.
- [What is "Fresh Frozen" Food?](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:what-is-fresh-frozen-food/) - If you Google the term fresh frozen you’ll get more than a few references to one of Gordon Ramsay’s meltdowns on Kitchen Nightmares, where he throws a fit because a cook tells him, “We keep it frozen fresh.” There is no such thing as fresh food that is frozen. Food is either frozen or it is fresh.
- [Is Al Pastor Chicken Or Pork? The Truth About "Shepherd's Style"](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:there-is-no-such-thing-as-chicken-al-pastor/) - Chipotle has added something called Chicken Al Pastor to their menu but Chicken Al Pastor is not a thing. They and others are marketing on a trendy item. Find out why.
- [Willy Wonka and the "Picnic" Paradox: The Real Racism We Ignore](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:debunking-willy-wonkas-chocolate-factory/) - From 1964 pygmies in crates to 2023 Puffin edits, the history of Willy Wonka is darker than you think. Why are we ignoring real racism for "picnic" myths?
- [Waiter, Waitress, Server: Which Is Correct?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:waiter-waitress-server/) - Explore the waiter vs server debate & why the 'correct' term might surprise you. Discover the irony of how we dropped waiter for a word rooted in servitude.
- [The Culinary History of "On the Back Burner"](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:the-culinary-history-of-on-the-back-burner/) - Why is it called the "back burner"? Discover how 19th-century stove physics evolved into modern kitchen strategy and why your stove still has a simmer burner.
- [Should You Refrigerate Eggs? The "Bloom" vs. Salmonella Myth](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:you-dont-have-to-refrigerate-unwashed-eggs/) - Does the egg bloom mean you don't have to refrigerate? Learn why eggs age 7x faster at room temp, the truth about the Julian date, & how to store eggs safely.
- [Is There a Secret Code On Egg Cartons That Tells You How Fresh They Are?](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:is-there-a-secret-code-on-egg-cartons-that-tells-you-how-fresh-they-are/) - Is there a secret code on egg cartons that tells you how fresh they are? Learn how to decode the 3-digit Julian date and why it might not mean what you think
- [Tabasco Scoville Rating: Is It Hotter Than You Think?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:tabasco-scoville-rating/) - What is the Tabasco Scoville rating? Learn how hot Original Red is (2,500–5,000 SHU) and see a heat comparison of the entire Tabasco sauce lineup.
- [The Original Louisiana Hot Sauce Scoville & Facts: Spotting the Real Deal](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:original-louisiana-brand-scoville/) - If you grew up in a house where the Red Dot bottle was a permanent fixture on the table, you know the heartbreak of walking into a modern grocery store and finding a wall of 'Louisiana Style' sauces that just aren't it. Like me, you’re greeted by Crystal Hot Sauce, a New Orleans staple that,
- [Why Do Fast Food Burgers Use American Cheese? (And Why Cheddar Often Fails)](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:american-cheese-on-burgers/) - Why is American cheese on burgers the fast food standard? Discover the science of the 'culinary system' and why natural cheese often fails the test.
- [The Language of Food: The Linguistics of Culinary Lore](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:the-language-of-food/) - Is the language of food just a list of names? From Southern grits to Döners, discover why the linguistics of culinary lore is the key to cultural identity.
- [Experiments to Test Food and Cooking Myths?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:experiments-to-test-food-cooking-myths/) - Most food or cooking experiments you read about on food blogs are unscientific and unreliable as evidence. Learn more about how food science really works.
- [How Do I Keep Taco Shells From Closing Up In the Oven?](https://culinarylore.com/how-to-guides:keep-crispy-taco-shells-from-closing-in-oven/) - Stop taco shells from closing in the oven with the 'Overlap Method.' Learn how to use physics (& a little foil) to keep shells open, crisp, and ready to fill.
- [Brewing Tea in the Fridge: Is Cold Brew Tea Safe?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:can-you-brew-tea-in-the-refrigerator/) - Is fridge tea actually better? Discover the truth about bitter tannins, why home experiments often fail, & the real difference between infusions & decoctions.
- [How Do Pretzels Get Their Shiny Brown Surface?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:how-do-pretzels-get-shiny-brown-surface/) - Discover the science of the pretzel's shiny brown surface and the fascinating linguistic history of how the German "Brezel" became the English "Pretzel."
- [Something Smells About This Pumpernickel Bread Origin](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-of-word-pumpernickel/) - Does Pumpernickel really mean 'farting goblin'? Forget the Napoleon myths; discover the hilarious (and slightly smelly) true origin of the word Pumpernickel.
- [How did Beef Jerky Get Its Name?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:how-did-beef-jerky-get-its-name/) - Is beef jerky named because you 'jerk' the meat? Discover the origin of beef jerky in the Quechua language and why the common English story is a myth.
- [Grits: Are They Really the Same as Polenta?](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:difference-between-grits-and-polenta/) - It is now common practice to refer to any porridge-like product made from a corn meal as either grits or polenta. Grits and polenta are two different products.
- [What Happened To Jell-O Pudding Pops?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-happened-to-jello-pudding-pops/) - Do they still make Jell-O Pudding Pops? Find out why they were discontinued and get our 3-ingredient recipe to recreate that creamy '80s treat at home today.
- [Do 60 People Die Each Year In Walk-In Freezer Accidents?](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:do-60-people-die-each-year-in-walk-in-freezer-accidents/) - According to a recent Reddit post, in the U.S., 60 people die each year from being locked inside walk-in freezer. Are walk-in freezers a death trap?
- [How Do You Eat Tacos Without Them Falling Apart?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:how-do-you-eat-tacos-without-them-falling-apart/) - It seems confoundingly difficult to eat a crunchy taco without the shell breaking and the taco falling apart as you eat it. Have you ever been tempted to ask a native Mexican how in the world you were supposed to eat a taco without the shell falling apart and the fillings falling out all over
- [Can a Restaurant Play NETFLIX Or Other Streaming Service For Customers?](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:can-a-restaurant-legally-play-netflix-or-other-streaming-service-for-customers/) - It has become common for restaurants to play Netflix or other streaming programs for their customers to watch. Is this allowed as if they have a subscription?
- [Canned Tomatoes Taste Metallic? Why it Happens and How to Fix It](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:is-there-a-tinny-taste-in-canned-tomatoes-or-other-foods/) - Does your tomato sauce taste metallic? Learn why it’s actually the tomatoes (not the can), if it’s safe to eat, and the simple trick to cook it away.
- [Custard Cup vs Ramekin: What's the Difference?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:difference-between-ramekins-and-custard-cups/) - Custard cup vs ramekin: Stop using them interchangeably! While they look similar, the difference is critical for souffles...
- [Can You Eat Catfish? Top Edible Species and Nutrition Guide](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:can-you-eat-catfish/) - Can you eat catfish? While all species are technically edible, some are better than others. Learn about the best-tasting types and their nutrition..
- [Flipping a Steak: Should You Only Do It Once?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-tips:should-you-only-flip-your-steak-or-burger-once/) - Is flipping a steak only once a real rule or just a myth? I debunk the "single flip", look at Bobby Flay’s advice, & share a mess-free stovetop burger hack.
- [Can You Pop Microwave Popcorn On the Stove?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-tips:can-you-pop-microwave-popcorn-on-the-stove/)
- [Does Ice Not Melt in the Microwave? The Viral Myth Debunked](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:ice-wont-melt-in-the-microwave/) - Does ice really 'refuse' to melt in the microwave? Discover how viral videos and AI-scraped articles fake science, and why Google is spreading this myth.
- [Why Doesn't Grape Flavor Taste Like Grapes?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:why-doesnt-artificial-grape-flavor-taste-like-grapes/) - Wonder why artificial grape flavor tastes like medicine? It was originally a perfume ingredient. Learn the secret history & science of 'foxy' Concord flavor.
- [Was the Harvey Wallbanger Cocktail Named After a Real Guy?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:was-the-harvey-wallbanger-named-after-a-real-guy/) - Was Harvey Wallbanger a real person? Legend says he was a 1960s surfer, but the truth is a marketing secret. Find out who really invented this classic drink.
- [Why Are Some Dishes Not Microwave Safe?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:why-are-some-dishes-not-microwave-safe/) - Why does your plate get hot but the food stays cold? Learn what makes microwave safe dishes safe, why some ceramics get scorching hot, & a simple DIY test.
- [What Is The Plural Of Asparagus?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-is-the-plural-of-asparagus/) - The plural of asparagus is an interesting lesson in language. The word, in fact, could be said to not actually have a plural or to have two plurals, depending on your viewpoint. Discover more at CulinaryLore.
- [Fast Food Logo Secrets & Modern Myths: The Goliath Effect](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:fast-food-logo-secrets/) - From the McDonald's 'breast' myth to hidden logo secrets, I reveal why global food Goliaths are the ultimate targets for marketing folklore and viral fear.
- [How Do They Salt In-Shell Peanuts? (Shelled vs. In-Shell)](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:salt-peanuts-in-shell/) - Wondering how to salt peanuts in the shell? Learn the secret of pressure-brining in-shell peanuts and why they taste better than home-roasted snacks.
- [What is a Moka Pot? How It Works & Tips for the Perfect Brew](https://culinarylore.com/tools:what-is-a-moka-pot-coffee-maker-and-how-does-it-work/) - Learn how a Moka pot works, the best brewing tips for rich, concentrated style coffee, and why this single-pass stovetop maker beats a standard percolator.
- [The Truth About Bones in Chicken Nuggets: What You Need to Know](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:bones-in-chicken-nuggets/) - Are there bones in chicken nuggets? Learn the facts about USDA bone-particle limits, mechanically separated poultry (MSP), & the truth behind this common myth.
- [Peppermint Patty: Was the Peanuts Character Named After the Candy?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:peppermint-patty-name-origin-candy/) - Did Charles Schulz name Peppermint Patty after the candy? Learn the surprising history of the Peanuts character's name and why the candy actually came first.
- [What Is Jamie Oliver's Pink Slime?](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:what-is-jamie-olivers-pink-slime/) - When Jamie Oliver declared war on the "pink slime" in America’s burgers, he wasn’t just looking for a better burger; he was claiming to save a generation.
- [Is the Twinkie Defense a MYTH?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:is-the-twinkie-defense-a-myth/) - The 'Twinkie Defense' is a legal myth. Explore the real history of the Dan White trial and why the media invented the famous sugar high label.
- [Scarborough Fair Meaning: Why Parsley, Sage, Rosemary, and Thyme?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:scarborough-fair-meaning/) - Discover the true Scarborough Fair meaning! Explore the medieval origins of the song, the symbolism of the four iconic herbs, & the history of the famous fair.
- [Frank's RedHot Scoville Rating: The Surprising Truth About Its Heat](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:franks-red-hot-scoville-rating/) - How hot is Frank’s Red Hot? Discover its official Scoville rating, why it's the Buffalo wing king, & how it compares to Tabasco & Cholula in my 'Big 3' guide.
- [Mexican Cinnamon: The Floral and Superior True Cinnamon](https://culinarylore.com/spices:mexican-cinnamon/) - Unlock the floral, sweet secret of Mexican Cinnamon. From tomato sauce to morning coffee, see why Ceylon is the superior choice for your kitchen staples.
- [Bernard Dehydrated Water: What in the World is This?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:cans-of-bernard-dehydrated-water/) - Now and again you may see someone sharing a picture of an old can of dehydrated water. What in the world is dehydrated water? Is it a joke or is it a blatant fraud?
- [Do Bell Pepper Gender: The Real Science](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:bell-pepper-gender/) - Is the bell pepper gender claim real? Find out the real science behind the bell pepper lobe number claim and how this affects their flavor for cooking.
- [Shelf-Stable vs. Semi-Perishable vs. Perishable Foods](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:what-are-shelf-stable-foods/) - In general, there are three kinds of foods in our kitchens: perishable, semi-perishable, and shelf-stable — also known as “nonperishable.” Contrary to popular belief, it is not necessary for a food to be highly processed and full of chemical preservatives for it to be shelf-stable. Basic Difference Between Shelf-Stable and Perishable Foods The basic difference between
- [Is Alton Brown a Chef? Is He a Great Cook?](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:is-alton-brown-a-great-cook/) - Is renowned food educator and TV cook Alton Brown a great cook? He probably is a good cook. I doubt he is a great cook. What evidence do we have about his skils?
- [Thai Table Manners: Great Info That Will Have You Eating Thai-Style](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:thai-table-manners-great-info/) - Master Thai table manners with this essential guide. Learn why to ditch the chopsticks; to use a spoon & fork correctly, & the secrets to family-style dining.
- [Mold on Food: What’s Safe to Eat and What to Toss?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:mold-on-foods-remove-and-eat-or-discard/) - Is it safe to cut mold off food? Learn the "One-Inch Rule" for hard cheese and why porous foods like bread, yogurt, and soft produce must always be discarded.
- [What Is Anardana?](https://culinarylore.com/spices:what-is-anardana/) - Anardana is a spice used in Indian cooking to give a sour-sweet taste to dishes. It is made from the dried seeds of the pomegranate fruit (Punica granatum). The seeds are dried along with the pulp, either by sun-drying or other means of dehydration. They are then ground or sold in whole form. The sweet astringency
- [Hotel Pan: Uses, Sizes, and Alternate Names](https://culinarylore.com/tools:what-is-a-hotel-pan/) - Learn the purpose of a hotel pan as used by restaurants, buffets, hotels, etc. Find sizes, alternate names, and typical uses.
- [What's the Purpose of a Tube Pan? Will a Bundt Pan Do?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:whats-the-purpose-of-a-tube-pan/) - If you have a cake recipe that calls specifically for a tube pan, do you have to use one? Can you substitute a similar pan, like a Bundt cake pan? Generally, speaking, if your recipe explicitly names a tube pan, you probably should use one. Although a tube pan may look superficially similar to bundt
- [Is Eating Mentos and Drinking Coke Bad? What Happens If You Do?](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:is-eating-mentos-with-coca-cola-really-dangerous/) - There once was a rumor that two children had died because they ate Mentos and drank Coca-Cola at the same time. Is there any evidence that this story is true?
- [What is a "Walk-in" in a Restaurant Kitchen?](https://culinarylore.com/dining:what-is-a-walk-in-in-restaurant-kitchen/) - Walk-in is the shortened term for the "walk-in refrigerator" in commercial restaurant kitchens. These are refrigerated spaces that large enough to walk into.
- [What is the Most Popular Fruit in America?](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:what-is-the-most-popular-fruit-in-the-united-states/) - Americans eat around 115 pounds of fresh fruit per year. Among all the fruits Americans eat regularly, which is the most popular? Is it the apple or the banana?
- [7 Dumb Things That Restaurants Do](https://culinarylore.com/dining:7-dumb-things-that-restaurants-do/) - There are lots of dumb things that a restaurant owner might do that we, the patrons, will never see. For example, drawing out your own design for a kitchen, or any other parts of a restaurant, without knowledge of local building codes or even the dimensions of the equipment to be used, could be a
- [What Is A No-Host Bar?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:what-is-a-no-host-bar/) - A no-host bar is used as opposed to a "hosted bar," which is most often called an open bar, where the drinks are provided by the host. Learn more at CulinaryLore
- [Devil Shake: Why Pepsi’s Rival to Yoo-Hoo Ultimately Failed](https://culinarylore.com/sodas:devil-shake/) - Devil Shake was Pepsi’s bold 1960s attempt to take on Yoo-Hoo. Discover why this chocolate drink failed & the technology secret that kept Yoo-Hoo on top.
- [Blue Plate Special: The History Of An Enduring American Meal](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:blue-plate-special/) - The Blue Plate Special is a cheap meal served in Diners and other restaurants. Find out the history behind this iconic meal, including where the name came from.
- [Cambric Tea: Definition, Origin, and History](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:what-is-cambric-tea/) - Cambric tea was an American term for a drink of hot water, milk, and a dash of tea, sometimes sweetened and given to children. Find out more about its history.
- [What is a Neutral Oil For Cooking? Definition, Examples, and Explanation](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:what-is-a-neutral-cooking-oil/) - A neutral oil is a cooking oil with little flavor of its own. Find out what is removed from oil to make it "neutral" & get a list of 10 examples to choose from.
- [The Biggest Myth About Acquired Tastes For Foods](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:the-biggest-myth-about-acquired-tastes/) - The way most of us think about the concept acquired tastes for particular foods is flawed. The concept is misunderstood by most people ho talk about it!
- [Elbows on the Table: Why Is It Forbidden? The True History](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:no-elbows-on-the-table/) - Why are elbows on the table considered bad manners? What is the origin of this etiquette rule? Is it about formality or something more practical? Well, the rule may be a little of both: Formal and practical. First, in a "stately" society, any appearance of being overly indulged in your food might be seen as
- [Why Are They Called Refried Beans: The Meaning of "Refried" Explained](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:how-did-refried-beans-get-their-name/) - Many people assume that refried beans are twice-fried beans. Beans that are fried and then re-fried. But they are not. So how did refried beans get their name?
- [Restaurant Failure Rate: Do 90% of Restaurants Fail in Their First Year?](https://culinarylore.com/dining:restaurant-failure-rate/) - The true restaurant failure rate is much lower than commonly reported. Find out why the 90% restaurant failure rate is not only a myth, but impossible!
- [The Original 1867 Ambrosia Recipe: No Marshmallows or Mayo](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:the-original-ambrosia-recipe/) - Forget the marshmallows. Discover the forgotten 1867 original Ambrosia recipe from Maria Massey Barringer's 'Dixie Cookery'—an elegant citrus classic.
- [What are Safe Temperatures for Foods in Restaurants?](https://culinarylore.com/dining:safe-temperatures-for-foods-in-restaurants/)
- [Why Using Gloves Does Not Guarantee Food Safety](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:why-using-gloves-does-not-guarantees-food-safety/) - Many food service establishments require workers who handle food to wear gloves. Even some home cooks wear them. This does not guarantee food safety. Learn why!
- [Candlenuts: Appearance, Texture, and Cooking Uses](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:candlenuts-in-southeast-asian-cooking/) - Find out about the appearance, texture, and uses of candlenuts in Southeast Asian cooking. Also, learn how they were used as candles.
- [Alfonso Olives: Taste, Texture, and Substitutes](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:what-are-alfonso-olives/) - Alfonso olives are very large, dark purple to purple-brown olives grown in South America with a meaty soft, and tender texture with a rich olive flavor that is a bit bitter and vinegary.
- [What Is the Purpose of the Flambé? Probably is No Point, Says Science](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:the-purpose-of-the-flambe-there-probably-is-no-point-says-science/) - The flambé, a flashy technique that used to be reserved for desserts like Bananas Foster, is now used more widely. According to science, it has little purpose.
- [Should You Let Hot Foods Cool Down Before Putting Them in the Refrigerator?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:let-hot-foods-cool-before-refrigerating/) - Should you let that pot of leftover stew cool down before refrigerating it or should you put it in the fridge as soon as possible, to get it cold more quickly?
- [How to Order Eggs! Sunny Side Up, Over Easy, Over Medium, or Over Hard?](https://culinarylore.com/dining:how-to-order-eggs/) - Egg-frying lingo can make it hard to know how to order eggs. Learn all there is to know about sunny side up, over-easy, over-medium, and over-hard eggs.
- [Food Coloring Safety: The History, Science, and 2027 FDA Red No. 3 Ban](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:why-do-they-put-colors-in-foods/) - Why is food colored and is it safe? Get the facts on synthetic vs. natural dyes, the 2026 petroleum dye phase-out, and the 2027 ban on Red No. 3.
- [FD&C Blue No. 2: The "Royal Blue" Indigo Dye](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:fdc-blue-no-2-indigo-dye/) - Learn about FD&C Blue No. 2 (Indigo Carmine). Discover its history from the 1906 Food Act, its unique 'Royal Blue' hue, and the facts behind its safety and use in food.
- [When Was the 7-Eleven Big Gulp Introduced?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:when-was-the-7-eleven-big-gulp-introduced/) - Chances are when you think of 7-Eleven you think of Slurpees. In reality, 7-Eleven has been selling coffee longer than Slurpees, being the first to sell freshly brewed coffee in to-go cups in 1964. And as much as the Slurpee, 7-Eleven should be known for ushering in America's love affair with gigantic soda-fountain drinks. 7-Elevel sells
- [Does Bread Last Longer in the Fridge?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:does-storing-bread-in-the-fridge-make-it-last-longer/) - Does bread last longer in the fridge? Yes! The fridge doesn't necessarily keep your bread fresher, however. Confused? Find out why the refrigerator makes sense.
- [How Much is a Knob Of Butter?](https://culinarylore.com/measurements:how-much-is-a-knob-of-butter/) - In some cookbooks or online recipes, especially British or Irish, you will be instructed to add a "knob of butter." "How much is a knob?" you wonder.
- [How Much is a Pinch? What About Other Seasonings?](https://culinarylore.com/measurements:how-much-is-a-pinch-of-salt/) - Some are confused by a this common imprecise measurement in cooking. How much is a pinch of salt or other seasonings in teaspoons or grams? What about a dash?
- [The Tequila Worm Legend: From Poltergeist II to Mexican Delicacy](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:the-worm-in-the-tequila-bottle/) - Does tequila really have a worm? Learn the truth behind the agave worm myth, the Poltergeist II legend, & why you'll only find a "gusano" in a bottle of Mezcal.
- [FD&C Red No. 40: Allura Red AC](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:fdc-red-no-40-allura-red-ac/) - "Explore FD&C Red No. 40 (Allura Red AC). Learn about its wide use in snacks and soda, the difference between Red 40 and Red 40 Lake, and the 2026 phase-out."
- [What is a Teetotaler? Meaning and Surprising History](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:origin-of-the-word-teetotaler/) - What is a teetotaler? While many think it comes from drinking tea, the origin is much more interesting. Discover the real 19th-century story.
- [FD&C Blue No. 1: Brilliant Blue FCF Food Dye](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:fdc-blue-no-1-brilliant-blue-fcf-food-dye/) - FD&C Blue no. 1 is a synthetic food colorant (artificial color) with a greenish-blue hue used to color beverages, jellies, candies, condiments, syrups and more.
- [FD&C Yellow No. 6: The "Sunset Yellow" Food Dye](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:fdc-yellow-no-6-sunset-yellow-food-dye/) - Explore FD&C Yellow No. 6 (Sunset Yellow). Learn about its reddish-yellow hue, common uses in sodas and snacks, and its current safety status and regulations
- [Why Does Fish Flesh Have a Softer Texture Than Beef or Chicken?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:why-does-fish-have-a-softer-texture/) - Why is fish texture so much softer than beef? Discover the science of myotomes, the low collagen count in seafood, and why myoglobin creates different colors
- [Does Mustard Need to Be Refrigerated: The Pantry Debate Settled](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:does-mustard-need-to-be-refrigerated/) - Does mustard need to be refrigerated? While yellow mustard is shelf-stable, oxidation quickly ruins the flavor. Discover the science of why the fridge is best
- [Those List of Best Chef's Knives of 2026 Are Fake and Misleading](https://culinarylore.com/tools:best-chefs-knives-of-2026/) - Exposing the truth behind "Best Chef's Knives of 2026" lists. Learn why these reviews are often fake & discover the real mechanical myths about kitchen knives.
- [Is Raspberry Flavor Made from Beaver Anal Glands? The Truth About Castoreum](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:beaver-anal-glands-raspberry-flavor/) - Are raspberry and strawberry flavors made from beaver anal glands? Discover the truth about castoreum, the $70 price tag, and common food industry myths.
- [How is Alligator Cooked and Eaten?](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:how-is-alligator-eaten/) - Alligator meat is commonly eaten in the Southeastern United States. It is especially enjoyed in Louisiana and Florida. This makes sense, as the only species of alligator, the American Alligator (Alligator mississippiensis), is native to this part of the country, although they are found from Texas to North Carolina, and as far north as Oklahoma.
- [Why Is Blood Sausage Illegal? (Red Boudin or Boudin Rouge)](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:why-is-blood-sausage-illegal/) - Why is blood sausage illegal? Discover the truth behind USDA regulations on boudin rouge, the ban on lung meat, and where to find legal blood sausage in the US.
- ["HOSHANHO Loong-Series Japanese Chef’s Knife Review: Precision on a Budget](https://culinarylore.com/tools:hoshanho-loong-series-chefs-knife/) - My HOSHANHO Loong Series review: Discover why this ultra-sharp Japanese chef's knife is the best affordable choice for precision and durability in 2026.
- [The Ultimate Guide to Essential Kitchen Knives You Need](https://culinarylore.com/tools:the-ultimate-guide-to-essential-kitchen-knives/) - Master the basics of kitchen knives with this ultimate guide. Explore essential types, from versatile chef's knives to specialized blades, and how to use them.
- [What Are Barrel-Aged Beers?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:what-are-barrel-aged-beers/) - The old song "Roll out the Barrels" (will have a barrel of fun), actually refers to beer barrels! Barrel-Aged beers are beers that are stored in barrels after they are finished fermenting. Although some are stored in new barrels, many aged in barrels that something else has been aged in, such a bourbon. This way,
- [Dark Beer Is the Strongest Beer?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:dark-beer-is-the-strongest-beer/) - A common assumption about alcohol content in beer is that beers higher in alcohol are usually a darker brown in color and of a thicker consistency — think of a Guinness or a porter. Many people think that the darker a beer is, the "stronger" it is. A darker beer, they think, has more alcohol than
- [Will Letting a Cold Beer Get Warm Ruin It?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:will-letting-a-cold-beer-get-warm-ruin-it/) - Many believe that beer is as sensitive as a $200 bottle of wine and that repeated cooling and rewarming a beer is bad. Will letting a cold beer go warm ruin it? Find out at CulinaryLore.
- [Common Myths About The Great Irish Famine](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:common-myths-about-great-irish-famine/) - Explore the true history & debunk common myths about the Great Irish Famine. Learn about the potato blight, food exports, & the role of the British government.
- [How Did Eggnog Get Its Name?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:how-did-eggnog-get-its-name/) - How did eggnog get its name? Explore the history of this holiday drink, from British strong ale to wooden noggins. Discover what the "nog" in eggnog means.
- [Did Egg Creams Have Eggs? The True History of the Drink](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:did-egg-creams-have-eggs/) - Many New Yorkers agree: the Egg Cream never contained eggs. Explore the drink's history and find out once and for all: Did egg creams have eggs?
- [Why Are Those California Cancer Warnings on So Many Products?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:why-are-those-california-cancer-warnings-on-so-many-products/) - Learn why the California Cancer Warnings show up everywhere and why they are based on bad science and probably do more harm than good.
- [What Is Lobster Thermidor?](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:what-is-lobster-thermidor/) - What is Lobster Thermidor? What goes into it? And how did this classic French lobster preparation from the 1920s get its name?
- [Arborio vs. Carnaroli: The Best Rice for Perfect Risotto](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:arborio-vs-carnaroli-the-best-rice-for-risotto/) - Stop settling for mushy results. Discover why chefs choose Carnaroli as the best rice for risotto to ensure perfect texture and see how these rices compare.
- [The Strange History of Margarine: From Napoleon’s Prize to Viral Internet Myths](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:the-strange-history-of-margarine/) - Discover the history of margarine! Was it invented to fatten turkeys? Explore Napoleon III’s challenge, the 1886 pink margarine laws, and viral myth truths.
- [Origin of the Grapefruit: The Truth About This Weird Hybrid](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-of-the-grapefruit-the-truth-about-this-weird-hybrid/) - Is the grapefruit truly a botanical oddity? Discover the real origin of the grapefruit, debunk the myth of "weird" drug interactions, and explore its natural history.
- [Can You Eat Earthworms? The Truth About Safety and Nutrition](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:can-you-eat-earthworms/) - Can you eat earthworms? From cultural delicacies to nutritional benefits, learn the surprising truth about the safety of eating worms.
- [Sliced Bread Was Once Illegal In the United States?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:sliced-bread-was-once-illegal-in-the-us/) - If you thought prohibition was a doomed experiment, imaging prohibiting sliced bread. Yet, not long after sliced bread was invented, it was indeed banned, albeit temporarily, in the United States. By 1933, sliced bread sales had exceeded sales of unsliced loaves of bread. America was absolutely in love with this innovation. Then, during World War II, on
- [Kitchen Fire Safety: When Does Cooking Oil Catch Fire?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:kitchen-fire-safety-when-does-cooking-oil-catch-fire/) - Learn the critical science of grease fires, from auto-ignition temperatures to essential safety rules for preventing and extinguishing kitchen oil fires.
- [The History of the Word Grocery: From Medieval Spicers to Modern Grocers](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-of-grocery/) - Discover the tangled history of the word grocery, from its origins as 15th-century wholesalers and medieval spicers to the modern retail stores we know today.
- [What is Long Pepper? History, Taste, and Culinary Uses](https://culinarylore.com/spices:what-is-long-pepper/) - Discover long pepper, the complex relative of black pepper. Learn about its sweet, pungent flavor, its ancient history, and how to use it in modern cooking.
- [When Were Powdered Eggs Invented and How Are They Made?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:when-were-powdered-eggs-invented-and-how-are-they-made/) - The commercial production of powdered eggs ramped up in the 1930s, but powdered eggs were invented much earlier. Learn more about their history at CulinaryLore.
- [Greenwashing Exposed: 7 Deceptive Labels to Avoid](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:greenwashing-exposed-7-deceptive-labels/) - top falling for "eco-friendly" fluff. Learn how to spot greenwashing by identifying 7 vague terms, from "sustainable" to irrelevant "CFC-free" claims.
- [Do Brown and White Eggs Taste Different? The Real Truth](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:do-brown-eggs-taste-different-than-white/) - Is there a real difference between brown and white eggs? Learn the truth about eggshell color and why chicken breeds determine the look, not nutrition or taste.
- [Whole Grain Popcorn: True But Misleading Food Advertising](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:whole-grain-popcorn-true-but-misleading-food-advertising/) - Think your favorite popcorn is special? Discover the practice of "label decoration" and why the whole grain popcorn claim is something that goes without saying.
- [What is Puttanesca? Ingredients, Uses and Etymology](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:what-is-puttanesca/) - Learn what puttanesca sauce is, its bold ingredients like anchovies and capers, its colorful history, and the best ways to serve it beyond just pasta.
- [What is the Difference Between Chili Powder and Chile Powder?](https://culinarylore.com/spices:difference-between-chili-powder-and-chile-powder/) - Many recipes call for chili powder, but once in a while, you will find one calling for chile powder. Is this the same thing with a different spelling? Can you substitute chili powder for chile powder? Chili Powder and Chile Powder are Not Really Interchangeable The answer to the last question is yes, you can,
- [What Is Amchur?](https://culinarylore.com/spices:what-is-amchur/) - Amchur (amchoor, aamchur) is dried unripe mango flesh, used either as slices or as a powder. It is an important spice in India, especially in the Northern states, where most of it is produced. Usually, unripened mangos which have fallen prematurely from the tree are used to make amchur. Mango is a climacteric fruit, which will continue to ripen
- [What is a Salt Cellar? A Guide to History and Kitchen Use](https://culinarylore.com/tools:what-is-a-salt-cellar/) - Wondering what a salt cellar is? Explore the ancient history of "salt pigs," the benefits of using one in your kitchen, and if you truly need this tool.
- [What Is a Sous Chef? Meaning, Duties, and Salary](https://culinarylore.com/dining:what-is-a-sous-chef/) - A sous chef in a restaurant or hotel kitchen is the second in command of the kitchen staff, under the Chef de Cuisine, executive chef, or head chef. Learn more.
- [Is American Cheese Bad For You?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:is-american-cheese-bad-for-you/) - American cheese gets attacked by cheese lovers, nutritionists, and just about anyone claiming knowledge of nutrition. Is American cheese bad for you?
- [Where Did Celebrity Chefs Go to Culinary School?](https://culinarylore.com/chefs:where-did-celebrity-chefs-go-to-culinary-school/) - Ever wondered where icons like Alton Brown or Julia Child learned to cook? Discover which top culinary schools shaped today's most famous celebrity chefs.
- [Tea vs. Tisane vs. Decoction: What’s the Real Difference?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:whats-the-difference-between-a-tisane-and-a-decoction/) - Learn the real difference between tea, tisanes, and decoctions. Discover why "herbal tea" isn't technically tea and how to brew roots, bark, and leaves correctly.
- [What Does Infusion Mean In Cooking?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-terms:what-does-infusion-mean-in-cooking/) - You probably make an infusion every day. Infusing means to steep an ingredient in a liquid until the flavor of the ingredient has been extracted and infused into the liquid. To infuse something in cooking usually involves a solid, aromatic ingredient, and a liquid, such as water, milk, or even oil. Infusing means to steep an ingredient
- [Why the Smell Test Doesn't Tell You If Food is Safe To Eat](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:why-the-smell-test-doesnt-tell-you-if-food-is-safe-to-eat/) - We've all done it. You take an old carton of milk out of the fridge and give it a quick sniff to see if it's sour or still good. Heck, in my house, I'm the go-to smell-tester because I have a nose like a hound. I'm continually being asked to smell miscellaneous leftovers to see
- [Can You Dry Age Steak at Home?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:can-you-age-beef-at-home/) - Is it safe to dry-age steak at home? Learn the science of aging, the difference between aged and spoiled beef, and why your fridge might not be enough.
- [Are Peanuts Roots Or Seeds?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:are-peanuts-roots-or-seeds/) - Are peanuts roots, seeds, or peas? Learn why these "nuts" grow underground and how their unique botany differs from true tree nuts.
- [Why are Dishes That Feature Spinach called Florentine?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:why-are-spinach-dishes-called-florentine/) - There is a great trick to get your kids to eat spinach: cook it into scrambled eggs. This is how my folks got me to eat it, as passed down by my grandmother from her mother before her. I loved this scrambled eggs with spinach mixture as a child. But I had a curious name
- [Never Eat The Free Bread At Restaurants?](https://culinarylore.com/dining:never-eat-complimentary-bread-at-restaurants/) - Is complimentary bread recycled leftovers or a hive for germs? We debunk restaurant myths with real food safety data and industry statistics.
- [Why is the Period Missing In Dr Pepper?](https://culinarylore.com/sodas:why-is-the-period-missing-in-dr-pepper/) - Ever wonder why there’s no period in Dr Pepper? Discover the surprising design reason the "." was removed in 1950 and the truth behind common explanations.
- [Do Bubbles On Top Of Pancakes Mean They're Ready To Flip?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-tips:do-bubbles-on-top-of-pancakes-mean-theyre-ready-to-flip/) - Everyone who makes pancakes has probably heard that when bubbles rise to the surface of the pancake, it's ready to flip. This is a myth and fails often
- [The Art of the Reply: A Guide to Mastering Online Reviews](https://culinarylore.com/dining:the-art-of-the-reply-guide-to-mastering-online-reviews/) - Learn how to respond to restaurant reviews effectively. Find out which myths to ignore and how to use constructive criticism to build a better guest experience.
- [Why Does Pizza By the Slice Taste Better?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:why-does-pizza-by-the-slice-taste-better/) - Ever wonder why a single slice hits differently than a whole pie? Discover the food science and psychology behind why pizza by the slice often tastes better.
- [What Do The Categories Of Champagne Mean?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:what-do-the-categories-of-champagne-mean/) - Champagne, in its early days, used to always be a fairly sweet beverage. Around the middle part of the 1800's, that started changing and some Champagne makers started cutting the sugar a bit, creating dry styles of Champagne. In this article, I describe the characteristics of all the different categories of champagne that exist today. You
- [Why Do Wine Bottles Have a Concave Bottom?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:why-do-wine-bottles-have-a-concave-bottom/) - Ever wonder why wine bottles have a concave bottom? Discover the real purpose of the "punt," from structural strength to bottle stability and tradition.
- [10 Kitchen Tips To Keep Your Child Safe From Scalds or Burns](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:kitchen-tips-to-keep-your-child-safe-from-scald/) - Protect your family with 10 essential kitchen safety tips to prevent scalds and burns. Learn how to identify hidden heat hazards and keep young children safe.
- [What Is the Difference Between A Stir-Fry and Sauté?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-terms:what-is-the-difference-between-a-stir-fry-and-saute/) - Is a stir-fry just a sauté by another name? Learn why technique, heat intensity, and ingredient prep make these two cooking methods distinct.
- [How to Peel Tomatoes Like a Professional Chef](https://culinarylore.com/how-to-guides:how-to-peel-tomatoes-like-a-pro/) - It's difficult to peel tomatoes without mangling the fruit. Fortunately, there is a time-honored chef trick to remove tomato peels easily.
- [What is a Fluffernutter? The History of a New England Classic](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-is-a-fluffernutter/) - Learn the history of the Fluffernutter, a classic New England sandwich of peanut butter and Marshmallow Fluff. See how this childhood treat became an icon.
- [How Did the Club Sandwich Get Its Name?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:how-did-the-club-sandwich-get-its-name/) - It's certain that 'club' in club sandwich is not an acronym for 'chicken lettuce under bacon.' The Sandwich predates such acronyms. So, what is the origin?
- [Why Don't Canned Chickpeas Instead of Dried Work Well for Falafel?](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:canned-chick-peas-for-falafel/) - You can use canned chickpeas for falafel in a pinch, but the results are not always pleasing. Learn why canned chickpeas do not work as well as dried chickpeas.
- [Red Adzuki or Azuki Beans for Asian Dishes](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:red-adzuki-beans-in-asian-cooking/) - Find out the history and use of red adzuki beans in Asian cooking. Includes a traditional recipe for Korean Dongji-Patjuk (red bean porridge) with rice balls.
- [Can Bacteria Survive Microwave Radiation? Do We Really Need to Clean Our Microwaves?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:can-bacteria-survive-microwave-radiation-do-we-really-need-to-clean-our-microwaves/) - I found this question on one of those Wired YouTube videos where experts answer various questions from the web. A microbiologist gave a less than satisfactory answer to this question: Can bacteria survive high temperatures and microwave radiation? Do we really need to clean our microwaves? First of all, yes, you need to clean your
- [The Invention Of The Microwave Oven](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:invention-of-the-microwave-oven/) - A longstanding and peculiar myth about microwave ovens, that microwaves cook food from the inside out, got started at the very beginning of the microwave oven industry. It was based on the observations of Dr. Percy L. Spencer of the Raytheon Corporation, leading to the company inventing the first microwave oven, called the RadaRange, during the 1940s. The company
- [Is Expired Frozen Food Safe To Eat?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:is-expired-frozen-food-safe-to-eat/) - Can you only freeze food for a certain period of time before it must be thrown out? Is expired frozen food safe to eat? What happens if you eat it?
- [Is It True That Yolk Color Doesn't Influence Egg Taste?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:is-it-true-that-yolk-color-doesnt-influence-taste/) - Many believe that a darker, richer yellow yolk signals a better-tasting egg, while a pale-colored yolk means the egg will taste more bland. Is this true?
- [Is It Bad to Use Cooking Wine in Recipes?](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:is-it-bad-to-use-cooking-wine-in-recipes/) - Before you reach for that salted, shelf-stable bottle of "cooking wine," learn what it is, how it can ruin your food, and what you should be using instead.
- [Skin Turns Orange or Yellow From Too Many Carrots?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:skin-turns-orange-yellow-from-too-many-carrots/) - It is true that eating too many carrots, drinking a lot of carrot juice, or taking excessive amounts of beta-carotene supplements can actually turn your skin a yellow to orange color. This condition is known as carotenemia. It occurs because the carotene is fat-soluble and when you consume large amounts of it, it builds up in
- [Why Don't We Eat the Green Tops of Carrots?](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:why-dont-we-eat-the-green-tops-of-carrots/) - Most of us buy our carrots with the green tops removed. Carrots with the greens still intact are not as widely available as carrots with the greens removed. However, you may sometimes find them available. Are carrot greens edible? Yes! They are perfectly edible. Carrot greens are eaten in many countries, but not in the
- [Were the First Carrots Purple?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:were-the-first-carrots-purple/) - Many sources claim that it is a fact that the original carrot, from which modern orange carrots derive, was purple. We must view this with skepticism.
- [The Last Meal I Ate Made Me Sick!](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:last-meal-i-ate-made-me-sick/) - You just had a great restaurant meal last evening and today, you have food poisoning. That restaurant poisoned me, you think. This is a common assumption. Whenever we get sick with something that feels like food poisoning, we assume the culprit was the last meal we ate. This is, in fact, an incorrect assumption. If
- [What Is The Leading Cause Of Food Poisoning in the United States?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:what-is-the-leading-cause-of-food-poisoning/) - When you think of food poisoning, you probably think of bacteria like E. coli, salmonella, or staphylococcus. Foodborne illness can also be caused by other pathogens, including viruses and parasites. If I were to ask the average person what the leading cause of food poisoning is, they'd likely say something like salmonella. But what is
- [Are Most Food Poisoning Outbreaks Caused by Fast Food?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:are-most-food-poisoning-outbreaks-caused-by-fast-food/) - Stories of fast food poisoning dominate the news. leading many to believe fast food is the primary culprit for foodborne illness. The truth may surprise you.
- [What Kind of Pastry Brush Should You Buy? What are They Used For?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:what-kind-of-pastry-brush-should-you-buy-what-are-they-used-for/) - Pastry brushes are used primarily for brushing on or applying liquids to foods. Discover the best kind of pastry brush to buy for your kitchen.
- [Are All Seedless Fruits Genetically Modified (GMO)?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:are-all-seedless-fruits-genetically-modified-gmo/) - Under a video on how to pick a ripe watermelon, I came across a random rant about seedless fruits. Some person was complaining about the absence of black seeds in watermelons and wished they would come back. I've never seen anyone lamenting the absence of seeds in a watermelon, but it wasn't this curious comment
- [How Did Granny Smith Apples Get Their Name?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:how-did-granny-smith-apples-get-their-name/) - There are a couple of different version of the story of how Granny Smith apples came about, but they all agree that they got their name from an Australian woman named Maria Anne Smith, who had the nickname Granny Smith. After her husband died, Maria Smith took over the farm and orchard that was the family's
- [Cotton Candy Around the World](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:cotton-candy-around-the-world/) - Children all over the world have their own version of what we in America call cotton candy. Some version of the wooly confection goes back thousands of years.
- [What is Popcorn Salt?](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:what-is-popcorn-salt/) - Do you struggle to get your popcorn to taste salty enough? If you don’t use butter or other fats, this becomes more difficult. The solution is popcorn salt.
- [Why Do Some Popcorn Kernels Never Pop?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:why-do-some-popcorn-kernels-never-pop/) - If you regularly pop your own popcorn, you will have noticed that some of the kernels don't pop. If you keep heating the kernels hoping for the stragglers to explode, you end up scorching the already popped corn. Well, no matter what anyone tells you (I'm looking at you, America's Test Kitchen) there is no
- [Why Do Chefs Discourage Others from Becoming Chefs?](https://culinarylore.com/chefs:why-do-chefs-discourage-others-from-becoming-chefs/) - Chefs often have a confusing attitude about their jobs. They love it, yet hate it everything about it. Why do chefs often discourage others from becoming chefs?
- [What is the Difference Between a Personal Chef and a Private Chef?](https://culinarylore.com/chefs:difference-between-a-personal-and-private-chef/) - Most people assume that personal chef and private chef are two different ways of naming the same career. However, they are actually quite different jobs. Since becoming either a private or a personal chef can be a rewarding choice of career for a culinary school graduate, it is important to understand the difference. Of course,
- [Why Do They Say All Chefs are Cooks but Not all Cooks are Chefs?](https://culinarylore.com/chefs:all-chefs-are-cooks-but-not-all-cooks-are-chefs/) - It has become a tired refrain, mostly due to the influence of food television, for professional chefs to remind us that not all cooks should be called chefs. A chef, they say, is the person in charge of the kitchen, and this implies that he or she has more mastery of cooking, as well as the intricacies
- [The Difference Between Rapini (Broccoli Rabe) and Broccolini](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:the-difference-between-rapini-and-broccolini/) - While they may look like cousins, Rapini and Broccolini couldn't be more different in terms of flavor and lineage. Learn how to tell the difference.
- [Avocado Leaves in Mexican Cooking](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:avocado-leaves-in-mexican-cooking/) - The avocado fruit is very important to Mexican cuisine. However, avocado leaves are used in cooking as well, especially in the Southern regions, like Oaxaca.
- [Why Do We Say Apple Pie Order?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-of-apple-pie-order/) - The expression 'apple pie order' refers to being perfectly neat and tidy. How did this phrase originate? What does being neat and orderly have to do with pie?
- [Not all Apples Turn Brown Quickly When Cut](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:not-all-apples-turn-brown-quickly-when-cut/) - Many fruits and vegetables turn brown when cut or otherwise damaged. Among these are apples, potatoes, pears, bananas, avocados, peaches, eggplants, apricots, and mushrooms (not a fruit or vegeatable). This process, is called enzymatic browning. It occurs due to reactions between oxygen in the air and compounds in the exposed plant cells that cause an
- [There are No FDA Approved Knives or Cookware](https://culinarylore.com/tools:there-are-no-fda-approved-knives-or-cookware/) - If a kitchen knife or any other kitchen equipment meant for food contact claims to be FDA approved, the seller is being misleading or is simply confused.
- [Why Do Restaurant Servers Ask If You've Been Here Before?](https://culinarylore.com/dining:why-do-restaurant-severs-ask-if-youve-been-here-before/) - Sometimes the first question you get asked by a restaurant server is "Have you been here before?" Why do servers ask us this? Why does it matter?
- [Is Someone Spitting In Your Food at Restaurants?](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:is-someone-spitting-in-your-food-at-restaurants/) - I was just watching a video about an awful experience a man had at a restaurant. He was visiting New York City to celebrate Father's Day with his daughter and granddaughter. They had lunch at the Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden in Astoria. After receiving his food from the very nice waiter and eating his
- [Banana Pepper Scoville Heat Units: How Hot are They?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:banana-pepper-scoville-heat-units/) - There are two types of pepper that are referred to as a banana pepper, the sweet variety and a hot banana pepper, the Hungarian Wax chili pepper. How hot are they?
- [What Does "All Day" Mean in a Restaurant Kitchen?](https://culinarylore.com/dining:what-does-all-day-mean-in-a-kitchen/) - In high-stakes cooking competitions on TV, you may have heard someone shouting something like, "I need four salmon all day!" What does this restaurant slang mean?
- [What is Chinese 5-Spice Powder?](https://culinarylore.com/spices:what-is-chinese-five-spice-powder/) - Learn more about Chinese 5-spice powder, the most well-known spice mixture of China, also used in various other parts of Asia, including Vietnam.
- [Why Use Bitters In Cocktails?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:why-use-bitters-in-cocktails/) - Have you ever tasted cocktail bitters straight? When I was a kid, my mother was a bartender. She always had a bottle of Angostura bitters on hand. I used to love to sample it. It was both disgustingly bitter and surprisingly thrilling to taste. Being so young, I can't say I could make out all the flavors.
- [How Do You Free Pour as A Bartender?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:how-do-you-free-pour-as-a-bartender/) - Bartenders have two ways of measuring out the liquor in a drink, the jigger and the free pour. For the true professional, the free pour is essential. Learn how.
- [Are Elderberries Poisonous?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:are-elderberries-poisonous/) - The elderberry is a dark purple berry of the European or "black elder" tree (Sambucus nigra), the North American elderberry (Sambucus canadensis), as well as the red elderberry (Sambucus racemosa). These shrubs or woody plants are found in Europe, North America, Western Asia, and North Africa. The berries are very nutritious but are often quite acidic.
- [Does Jamie Oliver Have Any Michelin Stars?](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:does-jamie-oliver-have-any-michelin-stars/) - TV cook Jamie Oliver has won several entertainment awards. But, has he won any food-related awards? Specifically, has he earned a coveted Michelin Star?
- [Why Have Wooden Spoons for Cooking?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:why-have-wooden-spoons-for-cooking/) - Why, in this age of metal and plastic, are wooden spoons still a must-have for the kitchen? Discover the advantages of wooden spoons over metal or plastic ones.
- [Waiters Should Stop Saying "Would You Like a Protein With That?"](https://culinarylore.com/dining:waiters-should-stop-saying-would-you-like-a-protein-with-that/) - Useful professional jargon often becomes overextended into general use. I'm talking about when restaurant waiters say, "Would you like protein with that?"
- [What Does Cuisson Mean In a Restaurant Kitchen?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-terms:what-does-cuisson-mean-in-a-restaurant-kitchen/) - What does the French cooking term cuisson mean when its not being overused by pretentious chefs? And, is it really need in English speaking kitchens?
- [Why Do Chefs Say "Flavor Profile?"](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-terms:why-do-chefs-say-flavor-profile/) - The term "flavor profile" is great for describing the unique characteristics of a certain cuisine or dish. Thai food has a different flavor profile than Mexican food. The term refers to the combinations of tastes, aromas, and textures that make food unique. The kind of spices and other ingredients that are typically used determine the
- [Substitute For Ketchup In Recipes](https://culinarylore.com/substitutions:substitute-for-ketchup-in-recipes/) - Ketchup is more than a condiment. It's used in cooking; especially barbecue sauce. If you don't have enough ketchup for a recipe, what can you substitute?
- [What is the Meaning of 'Au jus'?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-terms:meaning-of-au-jus/) - The French cooking term au jus literally translates to "with the juice." Learn more about this culinary term, including how it is used and how it is made.
- [Butter Up! 7 Butter Expressions](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:7-butter-expressions/) - Have you ever realized how important butter is? To realize this, all you have to do is count the number of butter expressions and idioms we have in English.
- [What's the Difference Between Scallions and Green Onions?](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:whats-the-difference-between-scallions-and-green-onions/) - When you want a milder onion taste, or you are finishing up a stir fry, do you use green onions or scallions? Certain vegetable naming conventions can be confusing and there is no better example than the difference between green onions, scallions, and green onions. And, to make it worse, the name shallot sounds a
- [Why Do Onions Make You Cry?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:why-do-onions-make-you-cry/) - There are as many home-grown tips for preventing tears while chopping onions as there are cures for hiccups. I thought I'd seen them all but today I came across an article from WonderHowTo that suggested a perfectly ridiculous way to keep onions from making your cry: Cut out the core. Once you undestand why onions make us cry, you'll understand why this will not work.
- [Center Cut Bacon vs. Regular: What's the Difference?](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:center-cut-bacon-vs-regular-whats-the-difference/) - A confusing bacon variation often recommended is center-cut bacon. What is center-cut bacon? How is it different from regular bacon? Should you buy it?
- [What is All-Clad Cookware Made Of?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:what-is-all-clad-cookware-made-of/) - Cooking pots and pans are not all created equal. No, I don't mean they come in different size and shapes, although that is true. I mean that the kind of material a pot is made from will greatly affect its performance in cooking. For making pots and pans, some materials are better than others. However,
- [What Are Kitchen Shears Used For?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:what-are-kitchen-shears-used-for/) - Unlock the full potential of kitchen shears! Learn how to use them for more than just opening bags, from snipping herbs to prepping poultry and slicing pizza.
- [What Is Spatchcock Chicken?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-terms:what-is-spatchcock-chicken/) - A spatchcock or spatchcocked chicken is a chicken with the backbone removed and cut so that it will lay flat. This allows the chicken to be spread out or opened up like a book, which makes it cook more quickly and evenly. Spatchcock chickens are perfect for grilling but they can also be broiled or baked quite
- [Vacuum Sealing Food Without a Vacuum Sealer Machine](https://culinarylore.com/how-to-guides:vacuum-sealing-food-without-a-vacuum-sealer-machine/) - You may want to own a vacuum sealer to extend the storage life of your fresh foods, but the machines are just too expensive. Is it possible to vacuum seal your food at home without a vacuum sealer? Yes! You can't achieve a full vacuum, but you can remove most of the air from a
- [Do Organic Crops Have Lower Pesticide Residue Than Conventional Crops?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:do-organic-crops-have-lower-pesticide-residue-than-conventional-crops/) - Two different statements are often used to convince you that organic crops are better for you and for the environment: 1) Organic farmers are not allowed to use pesticides and therefore organic crops have no pesticide residue, and 2) Organic farmers can only use natural pesticides and these are safer for us and for the
- [Chew Your Food 32 Times: Where Did This Advice Come From?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:chew-your-food-32-times/) - Chewing is certainly important. But why chew 32 times? Where did this precise number come from? It came from a man who was not even a scientist.
- [What Is A Zen Macrobiotic Diet?](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:what-is-a-zen-macrobiotic-diet/) - The Zen Macrobiotic diet is a dietary regimen developed according to the philosophies and eating practices of Zen Buddhism. The diet was originated by a Japanese man named George Ohsawa. Oshawa originally coined the term macrobiotic, which signifies diets based primarily on grains, with perhaps some cooked vegetables. The diet is promoted not only as a
- [Did Pepsi Really Beat Coke in Blind Taste Tests?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:did-pepsi-really-beat-coke-in-taste-tests/) - Beginning in 1980, Pepsi challenged Coca-Cola with head-to-head taste tests of both beverages. Did Pepsi really beat Coke in "The Pepsi Challenge?"
- [What Are Water Chestnuts?](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:what-are-water-chestnuts/) - Water chestnuts, the round discs that give crunch to Chinese takeout dishes, are not nuts at all. They are a vegetable that grows in conditions similar to rice.
- [Tips For Choosing An Affordable But Good Quality Stockpot](https://culinarylore.com/tools:tips-for-choosing-an-affordable-but-quality-stockpot/) - Don't overpay for a quality stockpot. Discover how to choose the right material and size for making stocks, soups, and pasta without breaking the bank.
- [What Is a Larding Needle?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:what-is-a-larding-needle/) - Learn about the larding needle, an old but effective tool for getting fat into meat; great for very lean cuts of meat without a lot of natural marbling.
- [Should You Get Your Knives Professionally Sharpened?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:should-you-get-your-knives-professionally-sharpened/) - Learn if professional knife sharpening is worth it or if you can do it yourself. Discover the pros, cons, and tips for maintaining a sharp kitchen edge.
- [What is the Best Kind of Kitchen Tongs?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:what-is-the-best-kind-of-kitchen-tongs/) - Many cooks turn to a spatula or spoon when kitchen tongs would be much better. But it's important to buy the right kind of tongs. They are not all created equal.
- [5 Advantages Of Silicone Baking Mats To Improve Your Baking Experience](https://culinarylore.com/tools:5-advantages-of-silicone-baking-mats/) - Learn the 5 main advantages of using silicone baking mats, from their non-stick surface to their eco-friendly reuse in place of foil or parchment paper.
- [Can You Use Wax Paper Instead of Parchment Paper To Line Cake Pans?](https://culinarylore.com/how-to-guides:can-you-use-wax-paper-instead-of-parchment-paper-to-line-cake-pans/) - Parchment paper is great for cake pans: No greasing & flouring. But what if you have no parchment paper, but only wax paper? Can you use it to line a cake pan?
- [What Measuring Cups and Measuring Spoons Do You Need?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:what-measuring-cups-and-measuring-spoons-do-you-need/) - Learn how to choose the best dry and liquid measuring cups and spoons. Discover why material, handle durability, & shape matter for your cooking & pocketbook.
- [Do Microwave Ovens Get Weaker Over Time?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:do-microwave-ovens-get-weaker-over-time/) - Why is a new microwave so much stronger than an old one? Because the old microwave, it turns out, has surely weakened over time & put out less power as it aged.
- [My Recipe Calls for Butter in Gram Amounts, But I Only Have Sticks of Butter and No Scale](https://culinarylore.com/measurements:butter-in-gram-amounts-but-i-have-sticks/) - Most of us who cook at home do not weigh out ingredients. If a recipe calls for a certain amount of butter in grams and you only have sticks, what do you do?
- [Does The Reheatza Microwave Crisper Really Work?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:does-the-reheatza-microwave-crisper-really-work/) - I like to cook the old-fashioned way, with fire. Or with gas caught on fire. But, sometimes I dream of a world in which I can cook basic things in the microwave without ruining their texture. For example, making a grilled cheese in the microwave. You can't grill in a microwave, can you? Or, reheat
- [What Is Burgoo?](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:what-is-burgoo/) - Burgoo, is a thick, multi-meat & vegetable stew that is a specialty of Kentucky. A bit like Kentucky’s version of gumbo, burgoo can contain any number of meats.
- [Why Is Kaffir Lime Considered a Racist Name for the Fruit?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:why-is-kaffir-lime-considered-a-racist-name-for-the-fruit/) - If you make Thai food at home you've probably used Kaffir lime leavess. It's a name to avoid. Learn why kaffir lime is considered a racist name for the fruit.
- [Victorinox Fibrox Chef's Knife Versus Swiss Classic](https://culinarylore.com/tools:victorinox-fibrox-chefs-knife-versus-swiss-classic/) - The details of these popular knives the Victorinox home range is confusing. What's the difference between the Victorinox Fibrox and Swiss Classic knives? Learn all
- [What Is the Best Way To Store Knives?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:what-is-the-best-way-to-store-knives/) - Learn the best ways to store kitchen knives, from magnetic strips to blocks. Discover how to protect your blades and keep your kitchen safe from accidents.
- [What Is Chinese Yellow Bean Sauce?](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:what-is-chinese-yellow-bean-sauce/) - Chinese Yellow Bean Sauce, or Hugan Jiang, part of any complete Chinese pantry, is a puree made from fermented soybeans left over from making soy sauce.
- [Who Makes Those Plastic Packets of Soy Sauce in Chinese Takeout?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:who-makes-the-plastic-packets-of-soy-sauce/) - When you order Chinese food, you usually get about 300 or so of those little packets of the black salty liquid. Who makes them? Why are they so cheap?
- [What Is A Benriner Or Bennie?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:what-is-a-benriner-or-bennie/) - Benriner is a Japanese brand of French mandoline slicers, which are usually metal. The Benriner is a less expensive plastic slicer, suitable for home cooks.
- [How to Make Soda Syrup with Kool-Aid for Your SodaStream](https://culinarylore.com/sodas:homemade-kool-aid-soda-syrup/) - SodaStream offers soda syrup flavors and there are a other syrups you can purchase. But you'll be amazed how easy it is to make make soda syrup with Kool-Aid
- [Who Invented Eggs Benedict?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:who-invented-eggs-benedict/) - Was Eggs Benedict named after an actual person? Was it Benedict Arnold or Saint Benedict of Nursia? Explore the origin stories of this favorite brunch dish.
- [Is the Plural of Beef Really Beeves?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:is-the-plural-of-beef-beeves/) - According to an article at Foodbeast, the plural of beef is actually beeves; this is the plural form as indicated in the OED and Merriam-Webster. Is this true?
- [What Does 'Auction It Off' Mean In Restaurant Jargon?](https://culinarylore.com/dining:what-does-auction-it-off-mean-in-restaurant/) - "I just had to auction off table four!" What a strange thing for a waiter to say! Are they selling your table? Find out all about this quirky restaurant lingo.
- [What Mixing Bowls Should You Buy For the Kitchen?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:what-mixing-bowls-should-you-buy-for-the-kitchen/) - You're better off choosing the right mixing bowls & discarding the bowls you don't use. But which are best? What's the best material? Which ones should you buy?
- [Tip For Getting Your Homemade Pizza to Slide Into the Oven](https://culinarylore.com/how-to-guides:tips-for-getting-pizza-to-slide/) - When you make pizza at home, do you find it hard to get the pizza to slide off your pizza peel without messing up the pizza, or potentially even ruining it?
- [Is Iceberg Lettuce Bad and Devoid of Nutrients?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:is-iceberg-lettuce-bad-and-devoid-of-nutrients/) - Iceberg lettuce is tasteless and nutrient-poor? Discover why this often-maligned classic is perfect for adding crisp texture to burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
- [Who Invented Dr Pepper? The Fruitful  History of a 23-Flavor Tonic](https://culinarylore.com/sodas:who-invented-dr-pepper/) - Dr Pepper wasn't born in a lab, but a pharmacy. Discover the historic truth behind Charles Alderton’s "Waco" tonic, the 23 flavors, and the prune juice myth.
- [What is a Black and Tan Drink?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:what-is-a-black-and-tan/) - A classic Black and Tan is a beer cocktail composed of two beers in the same tall glass. What makes the drink special is the precise type of beers used.
- [Difference Between Real and Fake White Chocolate](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:difference-between-real-fake-white-chocolate/) - Looking for real white chocolate? Learn how to tell the difference between the real thing and fake white chocolate, and what to buy if you want the true product.
- [What Is Larb (Laab, Lahb, Larp, Laap, Lahp)?](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:what-is-larb-laab-lahb-larp-lahp/) - Larb, pronounced lab with a short A sound, is type of salad based on minced meat that is often called the national dish of Laos, the country where the dish most likely originated. It is also a popular dish in Thailand, especially in the Northeast. The meat in larb may be raw or cooked, and might also
- [What Is Junket?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-is-junket-dessert/) - An English dessert not often seen today, Junket is a custard where the milk is coagulated with rennet, for a soft, creamy, pudding-like texture.
- [What Are the Types of Graters?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:what-are-the-types-of-graters/) - If you’ve shopped for graters, you have probably noticed there are too many different types. It’s hard to know what kind of graters you need for your kitchen.
- [What Are the Different Types of Spatulas?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:what-are-the-different-types-of-spatulas/) - Spatulas are more than just tools used to flip eggs or pancakes. The term applies to a broad range of flat-bladed tools. Learn about the different types.
- [Basic Home Canning Supplies](https://culinarylore.com/tools:basic-home-canning-supplies/) - You do not need to spend a lot of money on equipment to get started on home canning right away. For around $125 or less, you can buy all the supplies you need.
- [Can You Use an Instant Pot or Other Cooker for Home Canning?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:can-you-use-instant-cooker-for-home-canning/) - Certain cooker products similar to the Instant Pot™ claim they can be used for home canning and meet the USDA canning standards. This could be very dangerous.
- [What Type Of Metal Skewers Do You Need For Kebabs?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:what-type-of-metal-skewers-do-you-need-for-kebabs/) - Kebabs are a favorite for quick grilling. But, bamboo skewers are a painHere, I'll explain what to look for when you are buying metal skewers for kebabs.
- [Best Cereal Box Prize Ever: Free Long Distance Calls!](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:best-cereal-box-prize-ever-free-long-distance-calls/) - Besides being the only truly perfect cereal with peanut butter flavor, Cap'n Crunch cereal always had a lot going for it. They had full-length animated cartoons for commercials, where Cap'n Crunch and crew would have adventures, and they had some truly high-quality cereal box prizes. One of these prizes, the famous Bosun's whistle, turned out
- [When was Chex Mix Introduced?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:when-was-chex-mix-introduced/) - Chex Mix is a lot older than you think. In fact, it was not always placed in commercial packages. It was first developed by Ralston Purina, the pet food company.
- [What Are Castelvetrano Olives?](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:what-are-castelvetrano-olives/) - Castelvetrano olives are a favorite for casual snacking, with a rich buttery and minimal bitterness or sourness. They are large with bright green color and smooth outer flesh.
- [12 Important Tips To Stay Safe While Cooking](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-tips:how-to-stay-safe-while-cooking-12-important-tips/) - Learn 12 cooking safety precautions that can make the difference between a pleasant meal and a trip to the emergency room. Avoid accidents while cooking!
- [How Did Ruth's Chris Steak House Get Its Strange Name?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:how-did-ruths-chris-steak-house-get-its-strange-name/) - How Ruth's Chris Steak House began is an interesting story. However, most people want to know how it got its strange name. It's all part of the tale!
- [Are Bay Leaves Useless In Cooking?](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:are-bay-leaves-useless-in-cooking/) - How many times have you put a bay leaf into a stew or soup and wondered what the heck it was doing? Can you even taste it? What's the purpose? You can detect the flavor that most herbs add to food. You know the flavor of mint, oregano, basil, rosemary, sage, or thyme. Or, at
- [What Is the Difference Between Bay Leaves and Laurel Leaves?](https://culinarylore.com/spices:difference-between-bay-leaves-and-laurels/) - Bay leaves are something we use for cooking whereas laurel leaves are a symbol of victory at the Olympics. What's the difference between them?
- [There is No Such Thing As a Michelin Star Chef](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:there-is-no-such-thing-as-a-michelin-star-chef/) - The title of this article is not meant to be provocative. It is simply stating a fact: there is no such thing as a Michelin-starred chef. Colloquially, however, a Michelin star chef is the chef of a restaurant that has been awarded at least one Michelin star. The Michelin guide awards these stars to restaurants,
- [Can I Substitute Tomato Paste for Tomato Sauce?](https://culinarylore.com/substitutions:can-i-substitute-tomato-paste-for-tomato-sauce/) - While you cannot directly substitute tomato paste for tomato sauce, you can make a tomato sauce substitute very easily by adding the right amount of water.
- [What Was the First Brand of Frozen Pizza?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-was-the-first-brand-of-frozen-pizza/) - As easy as order one online or the phone, frozen pizza, to this day, remains the most popular of all frozen foods. But what was the first brand of frozen pizza?
- [Why Do Some Waiters Squat When They Serve a Table?](https://culinarylore.com/dining:why-do-some-waiters-squat-when-they-serve-a-table/) - You may have noticed that waiters often squat down when first approaching your table at a restaurant and greet you in this position. Why do they do this?
- [7 Restaurant Myths Most People Believe](https://culinarylore.com/dining:seven-restaurant-myths-most-people-believe/) - There are pages and pages of food and cooking myths here on Culinary Lore. Not surprisingly, the restaurant industry is the subject of its own die-hard myths. Some of these are perpetuated by Food TV and celebrity chefs, especially those looking to stand out in the publishing world. Others are promoted by restaurant employees, usually former
- [What is Allspice? (And Why It’s Not a Spice Blend)](https://culinarylore.com/substitutions:allspice-and-what-to-substitute-for-it/) - Is allspice a blend of spices? Discover the botanical truth about this single berry, its Jamaican origins, & the best allspice substitute for your next recipe.
- [Should You Boil Marinade Before Using It To Baste Meat Or Poultry?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-tips:should-you-boil-marinade-before-using-it-to-baste-meat-or-poultry/) - After using a marinade to soak raw meat or poultry, the same marinade is often used as a basting liquid as the meat cooks. Should you boil marinade first?
- [Should You Keep Opened Olive Oil in the Refrigerator?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:should-you-keep-opened-olive-oil-in-the-refrigerator/) - Can you store olive oil in the fridge? Yes. Should you keep open olive oil in the fridge? For most of us, most of the time: NO. Find out why at CulinaryLore.
- [Meat Smells Bad When I Open the Package! Is it Spoiled?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:meat-smells-bad-when-i-open-the-package-is-it-spoiled/) - Meat stored in cryovac packaging will last a lot longer in your fridge. But what if it has a strong smell when you open it? Is it spoiled? What should you do?
- [What are They Not Allowed To Ask in a Restaurant Job Inverview?](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:what-are-they-not-allowed-to-ask-in-restaurant-job-interview/) - Being asked uncomfortable questions before being hired leads to a common question: What are they not allowed to ask me in a restaurant job interview?
- [What does 'Au Gratin' Mean?](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:what-does-au-gratin-mean/) - Au gratin is one of many fancy-sounding French culinary terms to enter English during the 19th century, when a taste for French food developed in America.
- [Myth: Olive Oil Breaks Down When Heated So Don't Cook With It](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:myth-olive-oil-breaks-down-when-heated-so-dont-cook-with-it/) - Is it true that you can't cook with olive oil because it completely breaks down, loses its nutritional value, and forms volatile, toxic compounds when heated?
- [Can You Deep Fry With Olive Oil?](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:can-you-deep-fry-with-olive-oil/) - Have you heard? You can't deep fry with olive oil! Its smoking point is too low. Yet, Mediterranean people deep fry with olive oil more than any other oil.
- [Is it Safe To Eat Raw Cookie Dough With No Raw Eggs?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:is-it-safe-to-eat-raw-cookie-dough-with-no-raw-eggs/) - It's confusing that you can eat the cookie dough in cookie dough ice cream without fear of getting sick. You're not supposed to eat raw cookie dough! Usually, we are told that this is because cookie dough contains raw eggs that could harbor salmonella. So, does that mean that it is safe to eat cookie
- [Are You Really More Likely to Cut Yourself with a Dull Knife?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:are-you-really-more-likely-to-cut-yourself-with-a-dull-knife/) - Is it true that you are more likely to cut yourself with a dull knife? You have probably heard chefs say that it's true. I've never heard this claim questioned.
- [Why Do we Call it "Going Dutch" When People On a Date Pay Their Own Way?](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:why-do-we-say-going-dutch/) - When friends go out to dinner together, unless it is a special occasion where previous arrangements have been made, it is customary and considered proper for everyone to pay their own way. When a male and female go on a date, it has long been customary for the man to pay. Although this social tradition has
- [Is Dry-Aging Steak Wasteful? Unpopular Opinions](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:is-dry-aging-steak-wasteful/) - Is dry-aging steak wasteful? Its a time-consuming and wasteful process that transforms an already luxury ingredient for the enjoyment of a relative few diners.
- [How Is Restaurant Management Different From Other Business Management?](https://culinarylore.com/dining:how-is-restaurant-management-different/) - Recently, I heard a cook complaining about how today's restaurant diners think they know as much about food as the chef. The frustrated chef blamed this on Food TV. People watch the Food Network, he said, and they think they know how everything should be cooked. So, not only do they send food back but they
- [Is It Rude To Go To a Restaurant At Closing Time?](https://culinarylore.com/dining:is-it-rude-to-go-to-a-restaurant-at-closing-time/) - There seems to be a prevailing opinion among unhappy restaurant staff that customers who show up 10 minutes before closing are rude and inconsiderate. Countless Tik-Tok skits feature over-the-top rude customers insisting on the Royal treatment from a tired and disgusted sever, just as the restaurant is closing. But, is it rude? Should you not
- [Do Restaurants Have the Right to Refuse Service?](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:do-restaurants-have-the-right-to-refuse-service/) - How many times have seen a sign in a restaurant that reads, "We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone?" Do restaurant owners really have this right?
- [Origin of the Phrase 'Square Meal'](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-of-phrase-a-square-meal/) - Today, we use the phrase square meal to refer to a full, balanced meal. Why square? There are two stories of how this phrase originated, both about Naval ships.
- [Does Food Taste Better When Cooked By Someone Else?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:does-food-taste-better-when-cooked-by-someone-else/) - It has been suggested that food tastes better when cooked by someone else. What's the evidence behind this food psychology claim? Do we dislike our own food more?
- [Gerber Adult Baby Food: The Biggest Marketing Failure Ever?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:gerber-adult-baby-food-the-biggest-marketing-failure-ever/) - You thought Coca-Cola's New Coke was a bad idea? How about the leading baby food manufacturer in the US trying to sell Gerber Adult Baby Food?
- [What Is the Dining Room Brigade System?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-is-the-dining-room-brigade-system/) - Many people in the food industry know about the kitchen brigade system, but few realize that there is a corresponding classic dining room brigade system.
- [Did Stay Puft Marshmallows Exist Before Ghostbusters?](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:did-stay-puft-marshmallows-exist-before-ghostbusters/) - You can buy a bag of Stay Puft marshmallows. Did this brand of marshmallows exist before the Ghostbuster movie? What about the Stay-Puft marshmallow man?
- [Do People Eat Spiders As Food?](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:do-people-eat-spiders-as-food/) - You may already know that human cultures eat insects, grubs, and worms. This is the norm, not the exception. But spiders? Do people really eat spiders as food?
- [McDonald's Worm Burger Controversy](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:mcdonalds-worm-burger-controversy/) - Since at least 1978, a rumor has circulated claiming that McDonald's hamburgers were made with ground worms, either earthworms, or more recently, mealworms.
- [Anisette Liqueur - History and Overview](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:anisette-liqueur/) - Anisette is the oldest of several anise-flavored liqueurs, made from a neutral spirit and flavored with anise seed and various herbs and spices.
- [What Are The Types Of Liqueurs?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:what-are-the-types-of-liqueurs/) - Modern liqueur classifications are much simpler than the original ones, which were set up when liqueur production began to be organized so that standards of quality and consistency were applied. Liqueurs that have a thick and oily consistency were referred to as crèmes, oils, or balms. Those with a lighter texture were called waters, extracts, or elixirs. Distinctions were made in terms of
- [Greek Trahana: The Ancient "Sour" Pasta You’ve Never Had](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:what-is-sour-trahana/) - Discover Greek Trahana: the tiny, sun-dried "sour pasta" made with yogurt. See why this ancient shepherd's breakfast is the ultimate Mediterranean comfort food.
- [How Did the Kit Kat Candy Bar Get It's Name?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:how-did-kit-kat-candy-bar-get-its-name/) - The name Kit Kat, or Kit Cat, was not always used for the crisp wafer and chocolate treat we know today. How did the Kit Kat candy bar get its name?
- [No Caster Sugar for Your Recipe? No Problem, Here's a Substitute](https://culinarylore.com/substitutions:my-recipe-calls-for-caster-sugar/) - Caster sugar is a term used in Britain. Most of us in the States have never heard of it. It is superfine granulated sugar, not to be mistaken for powdered sugar.
- [Crazy Food Adulteration in the 1800's](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:food-adulteration-in-the-1800s/) - While perusing Fennema's Food Chemistry, I came upon some interesting information about food in the 1800s that I thought might serve to illustrate a point. Today's food consumers are rightly concerned about the safety of food produced by "big business" and are especially concerned about chemicals that food might be adulterated with. However, what the average consumer
- [Why Do Chefs Wear White? Why the Loose 'Pajama' Pants and Other Stuff?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:why-do-chefs-wear-white/) - Although today, chefs wear many different colors and combinations of clothing in the kitchen, reflecting their own style, the typical white uniform we associate with a chef is both practical and traditional. But, why do chefs wear white? And why the loose "pajama" pants and and other things? Let's explore why the traditional chef's uniform
- [Small Batch and Single Barrel Bourbon: What's the Difference?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:small-batch-and-single-barrel-bourbon/) - Whiskey (or whisky, if it's Scotch) can seem like a bewildering hodgepodge of meaningless distinctions. Even once you find a distiller you like, you'll see that they have several different types of whiskey. Some are more expensive. If you like one, should you try the other? So, Let's suppose you decide to try some bourbon. You pick
- [What is the Difference Between Caviar and Roe?](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:difference-between-caviar-and-roe/) - It's easy to be confused by the difference between caviar and roe. Both terms refer to fish eggs. However, there is a difference in how the terms are used.
- [Was Elijah Craig the First Kentucky Bourbon Brewer?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:was-elijah-craig-the-first-bourbon-brewer/) - It is often claimed that Elijah Craig, a Kentucky Baptist minister who was involved in a number of enterprises, was the first brewer of what was to become Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey. However, none can bring forth any credible evidence that is contemporary with Craig. The true origin of Kentucky bourbon is shrouded in mystery. Michael R.
- [What Is a Cooking Salamander?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:what-is-a-cooking-salamander/) - If you watch TV cooking shows, especially set in restaurants, you may have heard references to food being placed in the salamander. You may also have seen plates or other dishes being placed into small oven-like appliances, some of which may look similar to a large toaster oven. A salamander, today, is a nickname for a
- [How To Get Rid of White Spots on Stainless Steel Pans](https://culinarylore.com/how-to-guides:how-to-remove-white-spots-from-stainless-steel/) - The insides and even the outsides of stainless steel pans can develop white, cloudy spots. What are they, and how do you remove them?
- [What Is A Sharpening Steel?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:what-is-a-sharpening-steel/) - Even with the best care and always cutting on appropriate surfaces, a well-made knife will eventually lose its edge and become dull. This causes some people to turn to electric knife sharpeners which may actually ruin a chef's knife, by removing too much of the cutting edge, or producing the wrong angle, etc. Often, however, what
- [Who Invented Worcestershire Sauce?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:who-invented-worcestershire-sauce/) - Chances are, if you have a bottle of Worcestershire sauce in your fridge, you can look in there and find out who invented it. That is because it is quite likely that the brand you have is Lea & Perrin's, and Worcestershire sauce was invented by a couple of drugstore owners named John Lea and
- [Is a Handheld Smoke Gun Food Smoker Worth Using?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:is-a-handheld-smoking-gun-worth-using/) - Smoke Gun Food Smoker Used and How Well Does It Work? Could you actually smoke something with a small handheld device? Is it something worth owning for your kitchen? If so, how do you use it? Which unit is the best to buy?
- [Why Do Bartenders Use Round Ice Balls? Can You Make Them at Home?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:why-do-bartenders-use-sperical-ice-balls/) - Why are bartenders using spherical balls or "round ice cubes" in whiskey or other drinks? Is it just to impress you? Is it better than regular ice?
- [What Is Sumac Spice?](https://culinarylore.com/spices:what-is-sumac-spice/) - Sumac spice is a popular spice in many Middle Eastern countries, as well as other parts of the world used in meat, vegetable, and rice dishes to give a sour flavor. Sumac spice is derived from the fruit of any number of trees from the genus Rhus, the principal of which is Rhus coriaria. Rhus coriaria is part of
- [Bread Test For Oil Frying Temperatures](https://culinarylore.com/how-to-guides:bread-test-for-cooking-oil-temperatures/) - When deep frying, you need to have your oil temp fairly accurate. With no thermometer, this can be hard. Discover a good way to test your oil with just a piece of white bread.
- [My Oven Is Not Heating Up to the Right Temperature](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-tips:oven-is-not-heating-up-to-the-right-temperature/) - Most people set their oven at a certain temperature, say 350°F, and assume the oven will reach exactly 350°F. Quite likely, your oven is not that accurate at all.
- [What is FOH and BOH in the Restaurant Business?](https://culinarylore.com/dining:what-is-foh-and-boh-in-restaurants/) - What is the meaning of BOH and FOH in restaurants? These common abbreviations are part of restaurant jargon and are part of several acronyms and codes that are used constantly in the restaurant business. Learn all about FOH and BOH at CulinaryLore.
- [Who Invented the Garbage Disposal?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:who-invented-the-garbage-disposal/) - There are many brands of garbage disposals: KitchenAid, Whirlpool, General Electric, and Waste King, to name a few. But the first brand of garbage disposal is the brand I have operating under my sink right now. It is an InSinkErator. It is a kitchen workhorse that allows me to get rid of food scraps without having
- [What Is Guar Gum?](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:what-is-guar-gum/) - Guar gum is a common food additive used in foods as a thickener, stabilizer, and binder. It can be purchased as a powder for home use where it can be used in place of cornstarch or other thickeners. In fact, it has around 8 times the thickening power of cornstarch. It is useful in gluten-free
- [As Southern as Sweet Tea](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:as-southern-as-sweet-tea/) - There is a basic rule pertaining to iced tea. In areas outside the south, iced tea is usually available, and sometimes sweetened iced tea is available. In the South, sweet tea (what Southerner's call sweetened iced tea) is always available, and unsweetened iced tea is sometimes available. Recently, it has come to my attention that
- [Nam Pla Fish Sauce: The Thai Soy Sauce](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:nam-pla-thai-fermented-fish-sauce/) - Nam Pla is a Thai fermented fish sauce, similar to Vietnamese nuoc-mom, but with less salt used. Like all fish sauces in Southeast Asia, it is a counterpart to garum of ancient Rome. Nam pla fish sauce is often said by Thai cooks to be the most important flavoring ingredient in Thai cooking. Nam Pla Meaning The name
- [Popcorn Lung: Should You Be Worried About Microwave Popcorn?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:lung-danger-from-microwave-popcorn/) - Many dire warnings can be found about a condition called Bronchiolitis obliterans, popularly called popcorn lung. This condition is related to a chemical used in microwave popcorn that is dangerous to your lungs. The chemical is called diacetyl. Diacetyl is used for artificial butter flavoring. It is the chemical in butter that gives it its
- [Just How Sharp are Kyocera Ceramic Knives?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:how-sharp-are-kyocera-ceramic-knives/) - You can get a knife made out of the same type of stuff as the mug you use for your morning cup of joe. And these knives are mega-sharp — so sharp they make those Ginsu knives from years back look like a rubber hose. However, ceramic is a fragile material — are these knives practical?
- [What Do Wine Aerators Do?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:what-do-wine-aerators-do/) - Wine aerators are all the rage in wine accessories. Although when you store wine, you want to protect it from exposure to oxygen, once you're ready to drink it, a little oxygen can help improve flavor and even texture. It is claimed that a wine aerator can bring out the proper flavors in a wine
- [What Type of Whisks Do You Need For the Kitchen?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:what-types-of-whisks-do-you-need/) - Many are familiar with the whisk. The classic type has a bulbous shape and consists of curved stainless steel wires that bend into loops and then come together into a long handle. Also called a whip, a whisk is standard equipment in most kitchens. Despite how common and familiar the wire whisk is, however, most cooks
- [What Is A Paring Knife?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:what-is-a-paring-knife/) - A paring knife is a small knife, but one of the few that a home cook will probably need. This specialty knife is meant for small, delicate tasks. Find out more
- [Is Swiss Steak Really Swiss?](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:is-swiss-steak-really-swiss/) - One of my childhood favorites was Swiss Steak. But, never questioned the origin of the recipe. Is Swiss Steak really Swiss? If not, how did it get its name?
- [What Tools Do You Need to Make the Perfect Pizza At Home?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:what-tools-do-you-need-to-make-the-perfect-pizza/) - You don't need fancy kitchen equipment to cook great food. But for making a perfect pizza, the right tools can really make a difference, especially when it comes to the crust!
- [How Did Arrowroot Get Its Name?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:how-did-arrowroot-get-its-name/) - The name of arrowroot, first recorded in English in 1696, is said to have come from he Arawak word aru-aru as well as the root's association with poison arrows. Learn more at Culinary Lore.
- [How to Make Homemade Bitters for Cocktails](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:homemade-cocktail-bitters/) - Difficulty: Easy! Time: Patience is Required. Making homemade bitters for cocktails is similar to making a homemade liqueur. You can think of a basic bitters recipe as being similar to making a very strong tea with alcohol in place of water. You simply place the flavoring ingredients in a high-proof alcoholic liquor of your choice and let the
- [What Is A Carving Knife?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:what-is-a-carving-knife/) - The term carving knife in cooking can be confusing because there seem to be other knives that can do the same job. However, another name for a carving knife, or carver, is a slicing knife (or slicer). Carving Knife Uses If you think of a carving knife as a knife that will produce slices of meat
- [Origin of the Word Epicure](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-of-the-word-epicure/) - The word epicure refers to someone who is a connoisseur of food and wine, seeks out only the finest, and has selective tastes. The meaning of the word was not originally so highfalutin, though. It could also mean something more like glutton. Epicure comes to us from the Greek philosopher Epicurus, and its meaning, especially in the
- [What Is A Culinary Torch?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:what-is-a-culinary-torch/) - A culinary torch is a small, handheld butane torch typically used to caramelize crème brûlée, to brown baked meringues, roast small peppers, or even to melt cheese. Used anywhere a quick toast is needed or melt, they are sometimes called chef's torches or cooking torches. Culinary torches are sometimes called mini kitchen torches. You may have
- [What is a Chitarra Pasta Cutter?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:what-is-a-chitarra-pasta-cutter/) - The Italian word chitarra means guitar. So, what is it doing here on Culinary Lore? You certainly cannot cut pasta with a guitar. Well, when you see a chitarra pasta cutter, you'll get the idea. It is a wooden frame (sometimes metal) with wires stretched across it. The wires are used to cut pasta dough into
- [What are the Parts of a Kitchen Knife?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:parts-of-a-kitchen-knife/) - Guest post by Ben Borchardt Those who are learning to handle a knife in the kitchen, especially culinary students, will come across several common terms related to the different parts of a knife. Although you do not need to know every single part of a knife in order to use one, being familiar with the parts
- [You're Using Paprika WRONG!](https://culinarylore.com/substitutions:you-are-using-paprika-wrong/) - It's sometimes sweet, sometimes fiery, sometimes smoky, and everything in between. Why do we use so little of it in America? Because we use it wrong
- [How to Clean Rust Spots off Your Stainless Steel Fridge](https://culinarylore.com/how-to-guides:how-to-clean-rust-spots-off-your-stainless-steel-fridge/) - Your nice shiny stainless steel refrigerator can easily be damaged if you use harsh cleaners or abrasives. Abrasive materials can scratch the surface of your stainless steel appliance. I have some scratches on the front of my fridge. I have no idea how they got there. But another problem is that these stainless steel appliances can develop rust spots. Don't worry, you can remove them!
- [Are Microfiber Dish-Drying Mats Better Than a Dish Rack?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:are-microfiber-dish-drying-mats-better-than-a-dish-rack/) - In a recent article, I stated how much I like microfiber cleaning towels. I also have a microfiber mat for drying dishes. Sure, it's great to have. But is it really better than a dish rack, like many people are claiming? Dish Drying Mat A microfiber dish drying mat or even a microfiber cloth will
- [Is Baking Soda and Vinegar a Good Cleaning Solution?](https://culinarylore.com/how-to-guides:is-baking-soda-and-vinegar-a-good-cleaning-solution/) - Most homemade cleaning solutions make me laugh as they are simply random mixtures of household chemicals that seem "cleany." Baking soda and vinegar is the most popular. Is there anything special about this mixture?
- [How to Make Perfect Over Easy Eggs](https://culinarylore.com/how-to-guides:how-to-make-perfect-over-easy-eggs/) - Before you learn how to make the perfect over easy fried eggs, you need to know exactly what over easy eggs are. There is certainly a lot of confusion about the different ways of cooking fried eggs. So much so that I created a post explaining all these terms including over easy, over medium, over
- [Should You Buy an Instant-Read Digital Meat Thermometer?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:should-you-buy-an-instant-read-digital-meat-thermometer/) - Meat thermometers (whether instant-read or not) are not primarily about preventing overcooking of meats. A better reason to buy an instant-read thermometer is to ensure that your cooked meats and poultry reach a safe internal temperature. Some cooks are fairly confident about this when it comes to roasts, steaks, chops, or burgers, but for a
- [Do You Need Professional-Grade Kitchen Towels?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:do-you-need-professional-grade-kitchen-towels/) - This is a favorite with the "I'm a fancy cook" crowd. The problem is they never explain what the intended use is. Why do you need a professional chef towel for a kitchen towel? If your goal is to wipe down counters and such, I'd recommend a microfiber towel. They are highly absorbent just like
- [Red Wine Should Never be Chilled?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:red-wine-should-never-be-chilled/) - If you find yourself refusing red wine, it may be because people keep serving it to you too warm! That's right. It is a consistent myth that red wine should never be chilled. Most people think white wine should be chilled and red wine should be served at room temperature. This is generally too warm.
- [Authentic Hungarian Paprikash, aka Goulash](https://culinarylore.com/recipes:authentic-hungarian-paprikash-aka-goulash/) - What most Americans call Hungarian Goulash is not goulash at all but a dish based on Hungarian Paprikash (Papriká). Goulash, or Gulyás is a soup or stew. In Hungarian, it means 'stew of the cowboy.' Skip to Recipe The story is that Hungarian cowboys would cook cubes of beef with spices into a soup. This
- [What's the Difference Between Pumpkin Puree and Pumpkin Pie Mix?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-tips:whats-the-difference-between-pumpkin-puree-and-pumpkin-pie-mix/) - The easiest way to make pumpkin pie is with canned pumpkin puree or pumpkin pie mix. What's the difference between the puree and the pumpkin pie mix?
- [Why You Need a Spider Kitchen Utensil and What To Buy](https://culinarylore.com/tools:why-you-need-a-spider-kitchen-utensil-and-what-to-buy/) - A spider is a large ladle-shaped or almost semispherical-shaped mesh spoon with a long handle used as a strainer and skimmer. It’s like a wide shallow mesh bowl on a handle. You’ll find them referred to as Asian because they were originally part of Wok cooking, and you may have seen one made of wire
- [Can You Re-Use Classico Pasta Sauce Jars?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-tips:can-you-re-use-classico-pasta-sauce-jars/) - One thing that attracts people to Classico pasta sauce is the jar. Classico uses mason jars, famed for home canning. So, can you re-use these jars for canning?
- [Can You Season a Stainless Steel Pan?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:can-you-season-a-steel-pan/) - Steel pans, meaning steel-clad aluminum pans, are great. They are durable, have good heat retention and distribution, and you don't have to treat them with kid gloves. But they are notoriously sticky. We all battle with food sticking to our steel pans. There are many old wives' tales and pseudoscientific explanations as to why food
- [Should You Use a Garlic Press?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:should-you-use-a-garlic-press/) - Most home cooks view a garlic press as an alternative to chopping or mincing garlic. They use it because they don't want to go to the trouble of using a knife. Unfortunately, chefs and other experts don't help. They tell us to use the garlic press if we'd like, or to never use it at all! Should you use one or not?
- [What is the Best Affordable Infrared Laser Thermometer to Buy?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:best-affordable-infrared-laser-thermometer/) - An infrared laser thermometer, usually called a laser thermometer, temperature gun, or point-and-shoot thermometer, is not useful for all cooking tasks where accurate temperature readings are needed, but it can be a very useful tool in the kitchen for certain tasks. CulinaryLore readers most often order the Etekcity Infrared Thermometer Temperature Gun 1080. Given the dozens of choices of
- [Why You Don't Want a Deep Freezer With Auto-Defrost](https://culinarylore.com/tools:why-you-dont-want-a-deep-freezer-with-auto-defrost/) - If you need extra freezer space for long-term frozen food storage, you need a deep freezer, aka chest freezer. These freezers open from the top and even smaller units give you a lot of space for storage. A deep freezer will not work well for your main freezer where you want foods to be easily
- [Are There Microplastics In Rice?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:are-there-microplastics-in-rice/) - Microplastics are a growing problem. These minute plastic particles bottled water and in beverages, as well. They have also been detected in food products such as Himalayan salts and other salts, fruits, vegetables, oils, and canned sardines. Another concern is the food we consume by the ton, rice. Microplastics have been found in packaged rice.
- [Choosing a Vegetable Peeler For Your Kitchen](https://culinarylore.com/tools:choosing-a-vegetable-peeler-for-your-kitchen/) - While you can peel most vegetables with a good paring knife, most cooks will want to have one or more vegetable peelers. You will likely find that you like one particular type of peel the most, but there are actually different types of peelers and the differences are not necessarily arbitrary. For example, it took
- [Is Bleach Safe to Use On Cutting Boards?](https://culinarylore.com/how-to-guides:is-bleach-safe-to-use-on-cutting-boards/) - You may want to sterilize a plastic cutting board with bleach (you can do wooden boards as well). Or maybe you want to sterilize some other kitchen surface with bleach. Is it dangerous to use bleach on surfaces that come into contact with food? Do you need to worry about bleach residue or thoroughly remove
- [What is Food Texture?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:what-is-food-texture/) - Do you often crave crispy food like potato chips? Crispiness is one type of food texture, something as vital to our enjoyment as appearance, taste, and aroma.
- [Why Do We Say "Egg On Your Face" To Mean Looking Foolish?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:why-do-we-say-egg-on-your-face/) - Have you ever had egg on your face? Possibly, after eating eggs. But someone having egg on their face is also an idiomatic expression meaning to look foolish after having made some mistake. The expression is figurative in that the person doesn't really have egg on their face. But, does the expression come from having remnants
- [Why Does 'To Spill the Beans' Mean To Reveal a Secret?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-of-expression-to-spill-the-beans/) - Some idioms have a literal and figurative meaning. The expression "to spill the beans" is just such a saying. What in the world do beans have to do with a secret?
- [Is the 5-Second Rule For Food True?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:is-the-5-second-rule-for-food-true/) - The 5-second rule of food is a cultural belief that if you drop food on the floor, as long as you pick it up within 5 seconds it is safe to eat. The reason people believe this is because bacteria need time to transfer to food so as long as the food is not on
- [Why Do Wintergreen Lifesavers Make Sparks of Light When You Chew Them?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:why-do-wintergreen-lifesavers-make-sparks-of-light-when-you-chew-them/) - What's the science behind Wintergreen Lifesavers making sparks when chewed? Explore the fascinating connection between sugar crystals, wintergreen, & electricity.
- [Do Light Roast or Dark Roast Coffees Have More Caffeine? New Evidence!](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:do-light-roast-or-dark-roast-coffees-have-more-caffeine-new-evidence/) - Many people believe that dark roast coffees have more caffeine by virtue of the fact that they taste stronger. This certainly is not true. Dark roast coffees don't actually taste stronger at all. They are simply more bitter. Others believe that roasting destroys caffeine and thus light roast coffees have more caffeine. The general consensus
- [Why Do Eggs Float?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:why-do-eggs-float/) - Fresh eggs are too dense to float, but floating an egg is a test to determine whether an egg is old. Why do they float? How does this prove they aren't fresh?
- [Do Americans Eat More Processed Cheese Than Real Cheese?](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:do-americans-eat-more-processed-cheese-than-real-cheese/) - One of the most prevalent beliefs about the American diet among people from other countries is that Americans eat more processed 'American' cheese than real, natural cheese. Processed cheese, which is called plastic cheese in some cultures, is seen as a symbol of the horrible American diet, part of a culture that survives on fast
- [When Were Kraft Singles First Introduced?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:when-were-kraft-singles-introduced/) - It would be logical to assume that processed cheese, also known as 'American cheese', was Kraft's first innovation. However, we see a glimpse of the brilliance of individually wrapped cheese singles much further back in the history of the company. When James L. Kraft, an immigrant from Ontario, Canada, first began selling cheese on the
- [Kraft American Cheese Burns Instead of Melts When Exposed to Direct Flame?](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:kraft-american-cheese-burns-instead-of-melts-when-exposed-to-direct-flame/) - In videos, people attempt to melt a Kraft American cheese slice by holding a flame to the cheese. It resists melting and instead burns, or rather browns. Why?
- [Is the 'How Coca-Cola Reacts to Stomach Acid' Video Real?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:coca-cola-reacts-to-stomach-acid-video-real/) - A video on YouTube entitled 'Experiment Pouring Coca-Cola in Stomach Acid!! - Epic Reaction!,' or 'How Coke Reacts to Stomach Acid,' between YouTube and Facebook, has been viewed millions of times. Posted by a channel called Molten Science, it purports to show what happens when Coca-Cola comes into contact with stomach acid, or hydrochloric acid. The
- [What is a Rasher Of Bacon?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-is-a-rasher-of-bacon/) - "Rasher of bacon" is an archaic term often seen in ancient literature. What does it mean? Well, the term rasher means a thin slice and can also apply to ham.
- [The Winston Churchill White Meat Incident](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:the-winston-churchill-white-meat-incident/) - Winston Churchill could be demanding about food, if not overbearing. The most famous Churchill food story from America is the hilarious “white meat” incident.
- [What Really Happens to Swallowed Gum?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:what-really-happens-to-swallowed-gum/) - When I was a child, in the 1970's, we were told that if we swallowed our chewing gum, it would remain in our stomach for seven years. In colloquial terms, this means that people thought that it takes seven years to digest a piece of chewing gum. This belief had probably been around from before
- [How Wrigley Became the Chewing Gum Leader](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:how-wrigley-became-the-chewing-gum-leader/) - Wrigley's Chewing Gum has a strange history. Quite the marketer, William Wrigley Jr. started out as far from the chewing gum business as you can imagine.
- [What do Tony the Tiger, Kangaroos, and Superman Have in Common?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-do-tony-the-tiger-kangaroos-and-superman/) - Kellogg's Frosted Flakes, originally called Kellogg's Sugar Frosted Flakes, came out in 1952. Believe it or not, Tony the Tiger, in the beginning, had to share equal billing with a Kangaroo named Katy. Both Tony and Katy the Kangaroo appeared on boxes of the cereal for the first year. They weren't the only ones up for the
- [Is There Really A Food Color Made From Insects?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:is-there-really-a-food-color-made-from-insects/) - Yes. There really is a red food color made from insects. This food additive is the infamous Cochineal extract, as well as carmine. These are derived from the dried female insect, Dactylopius coccus costa, commonly known as the cochineal. These beetles live on certain cacti, mostly in Peru but also in Chile, Bolivia, and the Canary Islands.
- [What Is Bitter?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:what-is-bitter/) - Bitter is one of the tastes that you can distinguish by the taste buds on your tongue, along with sweet, sour, salty, and unami. It's often confused with sour.
- [Apples and Potatoes Taste the Same with Your Nose Plugged?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:apples-potatoes-and-smell-experiment/) - Apples and potatoes taste the same with your nose plugged! Or is it hokum? The importance of smell in how we taste food is fascinating, but often overstated.
- [How Do They Decide Whether an Egg is Grade AA, A, or B?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:how-is-the-quality-of-eggs-determined/) - Eggs are placed into three grades, AA, A, and B based on quality considerations. Learn the characteristics used to determine egg grades in this in-depth article.
- [How Do You Know if An Egg is Good?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-tips:how-do-you-know-if-an-egg-is-good/) - In the United States, eggs are given letter grades based on quality characteristics. You can read everything you need to know about how these grades are determined, which will help you understand the information in this article. The USDA egg grades are AA, A, and B, with AA being the highest grade. The egg’s freshness
- [How Did Fritters Get Their Name?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:how-did-fritters-get-their-name/) - Although most people think of apple or other battered fruit, the word fritter is used to describe a wide variety of fried items. How did the fritter get its name?
- [Do Chinese People Hate American Chinese Food?](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:do-chinese-people-hate-american-chinese-food/) - Before you complain about the Americanized Chinese food you get from your local Chinese restaurant, keep in mind that it is Chinese immigrants themselves who invented it. The first major influx of Chinese immigrants into the U.S. occurred during the 1850's, when large numbers of Chinese immigrants came to San Franciso, mostly due to the discovery
- [KKK Contaminated Food Legends](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:kkk-contaminated-food-legends/) - It is not uncommon for political and social groups to be the focus of urban legends. The more negative the organization's goals the more likely they will be associated with diabolical conspiracies that reach beyond the organization itself. There is an entire urban legend genre involving rumored ties between racist organizations and companies that cater
- [Mountain Dew and Birth Control](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:mountain-dew-and-birth-control/) - Sometime in the 1990s, rumors began circulating that Mountain Dew had some helpful or dangerous effects on your reproductive health, depending on which rumor you heard, and your perspective when you heard them. The main claim was that Mountain Dew was an effective contraceptive. All you had to do was drink it before having sex,
- [Snakes in Ball Pits: Is Playland Deadly?](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:snakes-in-ball-pits-is-playland-deadly/) - In the 1990s, an email rumor began claiming that a child had been bitten by a snake at McDonald's playland. Are these snakes in ball pits rumors true?
- [The Dirtiest and Most Germy Item at Restaurants](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:dirtiest-and-germiest-items-at-restaurants/) - If you stopped to think how many germs were on the items you use at a restaurant, you may never eat at one again. Some of those items are handled by multiple people each day and may not be wiped down or cleaned regularly. We can items like the menu and condiment dispensers to have
- [Do McDonald's French Fries Still Contain Beef?](https://culinarylore.com/dining:do-mcdonalds-french-fries-still-contain-beef/) - Although a big lawsuit caused McDonald's to change its French fry formula, the public is still confused about whether McDonald's still uses beef in their fries.
- [What Are the Ingredients In McDonald's Special Big Mac Sauce?](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:what-are-the-ingredients-in-mcdonalds-special-big-mac-sauce/) - Many people wonder in the McDonald's Special Big Mac Sauce. Others think they know exactly what's in it: ketchup, mayonnaise, and mustard. Find out the truth!
- [Does Rice In Your Salt Shaker Keep Salt From Clumping?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:does-rice-in-your-salt-shaker-keep-salt-from-clumping/) - We all hate lumps in our salt shakers. When table salt does not contain an anti-caking ingredient, this is a problem even on mildly humid days. Sometimes, when it's humid enough, even salt that does contain anti-caking additives will clump up. What's more annoying than shaking and shaking and getting no salt? Well, have you
- [What Is Hard Tack or Ship's Bread? How Does It Relate To the Cracker?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-is-hard-tack-or-ships-bread-how-does-it-relate-to-the-cracker/) - In two previous articles, I explained how we Americans started referring to the British biscuit as a "cookie" and the origin of the words biscuit and cracker. In this article, I want to move on to a possibly confusing type of "cracker" called "hard tack" or "ship's bread." Isn't this the same thing as a
- [Does Bread Really Contain Plaster Of Paris?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:does-bread-contain-plaster-of-paris/) - As far back as 1915, headlines were ablaze with the shocking news: Commercial bread bakers were putting Plaster of Paris into their bread doughs. Was it true?
- [Who Makes the Largest Pizza You Can Actually Order?](https://culinarylore.com/dining:who-makes-the-largest-pizza-you-can-order/) - There have been many attempts to make the world's largest pizza, and records have been set by gargantuan pizzas that took dozens of people to make and even more people to eat. But these were one-off attempts to break a record for the largest pizza ever. On the other hand, many pizzerias boast a large
- [Domino's Disgusting Employees YouTube Scandal](https://culinarylore.com/dining:dominos-disgusting-employees-youtube-scandal/) - In 2009, Domino's suffered a serious blow due to the actions two workers. The incident involved a series of YouTube videos called "Disgusting Domino's People."
- [Was 'Good To the Last Drop' Coined By Teddy Roosevelt For Maxwell House Coffee?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:maxwell-house-coffee-and-teddy-roosevelt/) - Maxwell House coffee was developed by Joel Cheek and his partner Roger Nolley Smith in the late 1800s and first served in a fancy Nashville hotel in 1902. That hotel was named the Maxwell House. Cheek approached the food buyer for the hotel, Mr. Bledwell, and asked him to try out 20 pounds of the
- [What are Hasselback Potatoes?](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:what-are-hasselback-potatoes/) - Hasselback potatoes are potatoes with fancy talking cars. Oh, wait, I was thinking of Hasselhoff potatoes. Hasselback potatoes are a Swedish way of making roasted potatoes. It is really the technique that is special about this, but it is basically a very cool way of doing a baked potato. They look fancy and they get
- [What is a Composed Salad?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-terms:what-is-a-composed-salad/) - In a composed salad the many ingredients are not mixed but carefully arranged, stacked or side by side, with attention to complimentary flavors and colors.
- [Can Eating Too Many Bananas Cause A Potassium Overdose?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:eating-too-many-bananas-potassium-overdose/) - According to an internet claim "Eating nine bananas in a row can kill you by giving you a lethal overdose of potassium." Bananas do contain potassium and are touted as an excellent source of the mineral. Is it that easy to get a potassium overdose eating bananas? And, how many bananas will kill you? Potassium
- [Chinese Table Manners: Never Flip Over a Whole Fish](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:chinese-table-manners-never-flip-over-a-whole-fish/) - Have you ever ordered whole fish at a Chinese restaurant? This is the traditional Chinese way of serving fish, with head, bone, tail and all. Nothing unusual there, but if you want to eat your fish like a Chinese person, or if you are dining in China or with a Chinese family, you may want
- [Should You Never Order Fish On Mondays?](https://culinarylore.com/dining:should-you-never-order-fish-on-mondays/) - Part of Anthony Bourdain's long list of 'things to never do at restaurants,' this one'sfrom Kitchen Confidential where he said, "I never order fish on Monday."
- [Shredded Cheese Contains Cellulose?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:shredded-cheese-contains-cellulose/) - You must read this alarming fact about shredded cheese! Many shredded cheese products contain cellulose. Wood contains cellulose. Therefore, they use sawdust in shredded cheese. This is according to Insider via Eater. According to Insider, cellulose in shredded cheese is the same as sawdust. Cellulose used in food is not sawdust, per se. Wood contains
- [What Is Gum Arabic (aka Acacia Gum) In Foods?](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:what-is-gum-arabic-in-foods/) - Acacia gum or Gum Arabic is a hydrocolloid gum obtained from the Acacia trees. , this This gum is used widely in the food industry, especially in confections.
- [Why Are Sweet Potatoes Sweet?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:why-are-sweet-potatoes-sweet/) - Potatoes aren't sweet at all. So how in the world did a potato like the sweet potato come to exist? Well, sweet potatoes aren't really potatoes. Potatoes are members of the Nightshade family, while sweet potatoes are members of the Morning Glory family. So, they're allowed to be sweet without owing any apologies to potatoes.
- [How to Keep Cut Potatoes From Turning Brown Before Cooking](https://culinarylore.com/how-to-guides:how-to-keep-cut-potatoes-from-turning-brown-before-cooking/) - Has this ever happened to you? You dice or shred some potatoes for cooking and then move on to other preparation. The chopped potatoes sit out for a while before you are ready to cook them. And, alas, they're all gross and brown! How do you prevent this from happening? Why Do Potatoes Turn Brown
- [Was the McDonald's Scalding Coffee Spill Case As Frivolous As It Seems?](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:was-the-mcdonalds-scalding-coffee-spill-case-as-frivolous-as-it-seems/) - I've spilled hot coffee on myself. I did not require hospitalization. I did not suffer permanent disfigurement. When 79-year-old Stella Liebeck of Albuquerque, in 1992, spilled a hot cup of McDonald's coffee all over her lap, she required skin grafts, took months to recover, and suffered permanent scarring. Yet, the public was largely unaware of
- [The Best Way to Clean a Cheese Grater](https://culinarylore.com/how-to-guides:the-best-way-to-clean-a-cheese-grater/) - My dishwasher recently broke and I haven't bothered repairing it or replacing it. I don't mind washing dishes. In fact, I like it. It's therapeutic. But that darn cheese grater! Whether you have a box grater of a flat grater, it's such a pain to clean! Since most of us use the large or medium
- [10 Drambuie Cocktails](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:drambuie-cocktails/) - Don't know what to do with your Drambuie? You can drink it straight on the rocks but it's so sweet! Instead, you can make on of these classic Drambuie cocktails.
- [What Does M&M Stand For?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-do-the-ms-in-m-and-m-stand-for/) - People wonder what the 'M' in M&M's stands for. It would be logical to assume that one of the M's stood for Mars. True! So, what does the other M stand for?
- [When Were York Peppermint Patties Invented?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:when-were-york-peppermint-patties-invented/) - York Peppermint Patties candy is 84 years old. Although York Peppermint Patties are based on a type of mint and chocolate-flavored confection that had been around for some time before, they were developed by Henry Kessler for the York Cone Company in 1940. At first, these candies were only distributed to the company's home state
- [What is Toad in the Hole?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-is-toad-in-the-hole/) - Toad in the hole is a British dish of sausages baked in Yorkshire pudding and served with onion gravy. Historically, the dish was described as "meat boiled in a crust." Earlier versions gave way to meats cooked in a "batter pudding" which may or may not have been classified as Yorkshire Pudding. There are references
- [Is Horse Meat Served as Sashimi in Japan?](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:is-horse-meat-served-as-sashimi-in-japan/) - This may seem like an odd question to some, but it appears to still be a common one. If we want to know whether the Japanese eat raw horse meat, or, more accurately, whether horse meat is served as sashimi, in Japan, we should start with a few basic questions. First, what is sashimi? Sashimi
- [What is a Crudo?](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:what-is-a-crudo/) - You may see Italian restaurants in the United States offering "crudos." These are often dishes of raw fish or shellfish dishes. The term can refer to much more.
- [Are Grasshoppers Edible?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:are-grasshoppers-edible/) - Not only are most grasshoppers edible, they are higher in protein than meat, on a weight-for-weight basis. In fact, grasshoppers are enjoyed in cuisines all over the world. Next to ants, they are the most popular edible insect. At one time, Native Americans in the Rocky Mountains ate them, and they are still eaten in Asia,
- [A&W 1/3 Pound Burger Failure Fact Check: Are Americans Really That Bad at Fractions?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:aw-1-3-pound-burger-failure-fact-check-are-americans-really-that-bad-at-fractions/) - Is it true that the A&W 1/3 pound burger failed to sell because Americans are bad at fractions and thought 1/3 was smaller than a McDonald's Quarter-Pounder?
- [Where Did German Chocolate Cake Come From?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:does-german-chocolate-cake-come-from-germany/) - German chocolate cake, with extravagant richness, is just the kind of recipe German immigrants would have brought with them to the U.S. Or so you'd think.
- [How To Substitute Evaporated Milk For Regular Milk](https://culinarylore.com/substitutions:how-to-substitute-evaporated-milk-for-regular/) - Learn how to use evaporated milk to make regular milk to use in your recipes. How much water do you need to add to evaporated milk to make it the same as whole milk?
- [My Garlic Has a Green Stem. Should I Remove It?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:garlic-has-a-green-stem/) - You know your garlic is old when it starts to grow a green stem. Conventional wisdom says to remove this green part, because it will be bitter. Is this true?
- [What To Substitute For Buttermilk](https://culinarylore.com/substitutions:what-to-substitute-for-buttermilk/) - What can you substitute for buttermilk in recipes? It depends on what you're making. Learn how to make a buttermilk substitute to replace buttermilk in baking recipes.
- [What's the Difference Between Molasses, Treacle, and Golden Syrup?](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:whats-the-difference-between-molasses-treacle-and-golden-syrup/) - There is a lot of debate about the difference between molasses, treacle, and a “golden syrup.” Nobody seems to know the difference, but many claim there is one.
- [Washing Mushrooms Myth: Should You Not Soak Mushrooms?](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:washing-mushrooms-myth-should-you-not-soak-mushrooms/) - Many say you should not wash mushrooms in water so they don't absorb more water. Instead, wipe them with a damp paper towel. Shouldn't you clean them better?
- [What's the Difference Between Taste and Flavor?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:whats-the-difference-between-taste-and-flavor/) - Did you know that taste is not the same thing as flavor? Food experts and chefs often talk about the flavor of food. They are not talking about simple taste, but a multifactorial experience. The differences between taste and flavor are very complex and our understanding of them is often exaggerated with pseudo-precise descriptors and
- [Is Shellac Used to Make Jelly Beans Shiny?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:is-shellac-used-to-make-jelly-beans-shiny/) - Can something you use to protect wood can't be put on jelly beans? Natural shellac, without solvents, is edible. On food, it's called confectioner's glaze.
- [Can You Cut the Mold Off Bread and Still Eat It?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:can-you-cut-the-mold-off-bread-and-still-eat-it/) - I wrote an article explaining whether it's okay to cut the mold off cheese and eat the non-moldy part. The answer is mixed so you should read the entire article for the details. But, when it comes to bread, the answer is simple and clear-cut. Can you cut the mold off bread and eat the
- [What's the Difference Between White, Baby Bella, and Portabella Mushrooms?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:difference-between-white-baby-bella-portabella/) - The difference between white mushrooms, baby Bella, and portabellas may surprise you. In fact, these familiar varieties are not different mushrooms at all.
- [How Much Powdered Garlic For Fresh Garlic?](https://culinarylore.com/measurements:how-much-powdered-garlic-for-fresh-garlic/) - Powdered garlic is stronger than fresh and it's hard to know how much to use. Here is some handy conversion info for garlic powder, plus flakes, and granulated.
- [How Much Dry Wild Rice Makes How Many Cups Cooked?](https://culinarylore.com/measurements:how-much-wild-rice-makes-how-many-cups/) - Wild rice yields when cooking are not the same as rice. There are also several types of wild rice, and the cooking time will vary for each of these.
- [Was Coca-Cola the First Soda to Use Santa In Advertisements?](https://culinarylore.com/sodas:was-coca-cola-the-first-soda-to-use-santa-in-ads/) - Coke is said to be the first soda brand to use Santa Claus in advertisements. The company is also claimed to have invented the modern image of Santa Claus.
- [What are the Heinz 57 Varieties?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-are-the-heinz-57-varieties/) - What are the Heinz 57 varieties. And, was Heinz 57 Sauce the 57th product made by the company. Or was it composed of the previous 56 products mixed together?
- [Heinz Ketchup Bottle Sends a Man to a Porn Site via a QR Code](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:heinz-bottle-sends-man-to-a-porn-site/) - Heinz has enough trouble on its hands having to deal with French's audacious entry into the ketchup market. As if fighting the condiment wars weren't enough, now they have ketchup on their face after a QR code on a bottle of Heinz, instead of linking to a Heinz-owned website, linked to a hardcore German porn site,
- [Can I Substitute Half and Half for Evaporated Milk in Pumpkin Pie?](https://culinarylore.com/substitutions:can-i-substitute-half-and-half-for-evaporated-milk-in-pumpkin-pie/) - If you are making the classic pumpkin pie using pumpkin puree and the store is out of evaporated milk, can you substitute half & half? If so, how much should you use?
- [NO, Slice Soda Is NOT Making a Comeback](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:no-slice-soda-is-not-making-a-comeback/) - Taste of Home ran an article that is sure to delight many of us '80s kids: Slice soda is making a comeback! Well, don't get too excited, it's a different Slice...
- [Origin of the Term "Hodgepodge"](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-of-hodgepodge/) - Hodgepodge has come to refer to any mixture of things that are not meant to go together. Learn the original meaning and origin of the term hodgepodge
- [What Is 'Bang-Bang' Chicken?](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:what-is-bang-bang-chicken/) - You may see various dishes labeled Bang-Bang Chicken in restaurants, often listed as appetizers. This shredded chicken dish is Chinese (Szechuan) in origin.
- [Why Do We Call Maize Corn?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:why-do-we-call-maize-corn/) - Corn was unknown in Europe, Asia, and Africa before the 1500s, when the Spanish brought it to Europe from the New World. They didn't call it corn, but maize.
- [Did McDonald's Invent the Fast Food Kid's Meal?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:did-mcdonalds-invent-the-kids-meal/) - McDonald's launched the Happy Meal in 1978. But it was another competing chain that originally came up with the idea and had success with it: The Fun Meal.
- [What are Taggiassca Olives?](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:what-are-taggiassca-olives/) - Taggiasca olives are small, dark greenish, reddish-brown to purple olives grown in the Liguria region of northwestern Italy. Processed with natural they are not a very meaty olive but have a firm, crisp flesh and a delicate, fruity flavor. Taggiasca olives are water-cured olives. After cutting, the olives are placed in water and the water
- [No, Gravy Is Not an Italian Word At All](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:no-gravy-is-not-an-italian-word-at-all/) - There is endless debate as to whether "real Italians" say "gravy" or "sauce." For Italian Americans, the term gravy often refers to a meat-based sugo or ragù. Sugo alla Bolognese is the full term for what Americans call simply Bolognese, and sugo came from the word succo, which could mean pan drippings or meat juices or even a full-on "meat sauce." Some Italian-Americans contend that the word "sauce" is sacrilege even though the word gravy is not Italian at all.
- [What Caused the Boston Molasses Flood of 1919?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-caused-the-boston-molasses-flood/) - Can you imagine if, instead of water, a flood was composed of thousands of gallons of molasses? Just such a catastrophic flood occurred on January 15, 1919.
- [Real Wasabi vs. Fake](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:real-wasabi-vs-fake/) - Real wasabi is not just green horseradish! However, most served in the U.S. is fake Learn more about the real wasabi, how it's used, and how to spot a fake.
- [First McDonald's Franchise by Ray Kroc, April 15, 1955](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:first-ray-kroc-mcdonalds-franchise-1955/) - The first McDonald's restaurants were actually opened by Richard and Maurice McDonald (Mac and Dick). They had moved from New Hampshire to Los Angeles in 1930, trying to break into the movie business. They worked as set builders at Columbia Film Studios but this was not a dream come true. So, they left and used the
- [Six Behaviors Waiters Can Use to Maximize Their Tips Scientifically](https://culinarylore.com/dining:six-ways-waiters-can-maximize-their-tips/) - what does science say about how a waiter can make the most tips? What do we know, psychologically speaking, about how a waiter can maximize his or her tips?
- [Are Potatoes Washed Before Being Sold?](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:are-potatoes-washed-before-being-sold/) - Usually, when you buy fresh potatoes they seem clean. At other times, you may notice a small amount of visible dirt on the surface of the potato. Potatoes grow as a root under the soil, so they certainly are not clean when harvested. This variability in cleanliness makes people wonder whether commercial potatoes are washed
- [Why Do Food Bloggers Write So Much Stuff Before The Recipe?](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:why-do-food-bloggers-write-so-much-before-the-recipe/) - I used to have comments here on CulinaryLore. One of the most annoying comments I ever got was on an article that answered a yes or no question. The commenter said that none of the article was needed. One word, yes, would have sufficed. Why was I annoyed? Not because of a trollish comment but
- [What is the Difference Between Bitters and Amari?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:what-is-the-difference-between-bitters-and-amari/) - Cocktail bitters such as the well-known Angostura and Peychauds are very bitter alcoholic liquids that began as medicinals but are now used to lend a bitter flavor to cocktails. They are usually too strong and bitter to drink on their own. In other words, they are not "potable." For this reason, they can be sold
- [Why Do People Think Julia Child Was a Spy?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:why-do-people-think-julia-child-was-a-spy/) - You may be quite aware of how many people maintain that our beloved Julia Child was a spy. Was she? No, not really. So why, then, do people keep saying she was? Is it just some weird urban legend that came out of nowhere? Or, does it have some basis? The answer is that it has
- [Who Was The First Woman to Host a Cooking Show in America?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:who-was-the-first-woman-to-host-cooking-show/) - Julia Child was not the first woman to host a cooking show in America. Child called the true first female host "the mother of French cooking in America.”
- [Is It Legal For Restaurants to Not Accept Cash?](https://culinarylore.com/dining:is-it-legal-for-restaurants-to-not-accept-cash/) - I've noticed a lot of restaurants popping up with a peculiar sign in their window: Cashless. Yes, these restaurants will not take cash!. They only accept credit cards. Yet, right on your money, it says "legal tender for all debts private and public." Are these cashless restaurants legal? Why Would a Restaurant Not Want to Take
- [What Is A Hibachi?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-is-a-hibachi/) - Most of us think of the Hibachi as a small Japanese grill or a a small charcoal brazier. But, the traditional hibachi was central to the Japanese household
- [Cold Oil In Hot Pan and Foods Won't Stick?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:hot-pan-cold-oil/) - Does it matter when you add oil to a hot pan? Is it true that heating up a pan until very hot, and then adding cold oil, will keep food from sticking?
- [How Did the Pineapple Get Its Name?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:how-did-the-pineapple-get-its-name/) - If you thought you already knew how the pineapple got its name, you may have been mistaken. Yes, a pineapple resembles somewhat a pine cone. Therefore, it makes sense that English speakers decided to call them a pine apple, combining the cones of the pine tree with a well-known fruit. But, the actual origin was
- [What Variety Of Peanuts Are Best For Boiling?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-tips:what-variety-of-peanuts-are-best-for-boiling/) - While boiled peanuts are easy to make, it may surprise you to learn that some peanuts are better to use. What type of peanuts are best for boiling?
- [Reese's Pieces Instead of M&M's For E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:reeses-pieces-instead-of-m-and-ms-in-et/) - Why in the world was a practically unknown candy chosen for the movie E.T. instead of M&M's? What were they thinking? Wasn't Elliot much more likely to have M&Ms?
- [What Was Musterole?](https://culinarylore.com/other:what-was-musterole/) - Musterole was a medicinal rub that was used similar to Vicks VapoRub but could also be used similarly to Ben Gay and other muscle and joint pain rubs. It is often said that Musterole existed long before Vicks Vapo-Rub, but this is an erroneous assumption, as we shall see. Musterole was first introduced in 1905,
- [Were Old-Time Patent Medicines Really Patented?](https://culinarylore.com/other:were-old-time-patent-medicines-really-patented/) - The unregulated quack remedies of the 1800s, like those featured in traveling medicine shows, are confusing. How could patent medicines they have been patented?
- [Was Humphrey Bogart the Model for the Gerber Baby?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:was-humphrey-bogart-the-gerber-baby/) - Here is how it usually goes: Did you know that the Gerber Baby is actually a picture of Humphrey Bogart (or one of several other celebrities) when he was a baby? His mother drew it! Now that is fascinating. Humphrey Bogart is like the quintessential tough-guy, and he is the Gerber baby. Wow! His mother was a
- [What is the Oldest Registered Food Trademark in the United States Still In Use?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:oldest-food-trademark-in-united-states/) - The Quaker Oats man and Mr. Peanut have been around for ages. But the oldest food trademark in the United States. belongs to Underwood deviled ham.
- [When Were the First Airline Meals Served During Flight?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:when-were-the-first-airline-meals-served-during-flight/) - The first airline meals were served up, or handed out, by Handley Page Transport on it's flights from London to Brussels, starting on October 11, 1919.
- [Lemons Contain more Sugar than Strawberries?](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:lemons-contain-more-sugar-than-strawberries/) - According to internet articles & memes, lemons contain more sugar than strawberries. This is quite surprising if true! But is it? Get the facts on CulinaryLore.
- [Strawberries and Raspberries are Not Actually Berries?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:strawberries-raspberries-not-berries/) - It's strange that so many fruits we call berries are not true berries. Strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries are not true berries in the botanical sense.
- [The Surprising Truth About Mushroom Poisoning](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:myths-about-mushroom-poisoning/) - While you should not gather and eat wild mushrooms without expert guidance, there are a number of common claims about mushroom poisoning that are exaggerated.
- [10 Surprising Facts About Bananas](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:surprising-banana-facts/) - Most in the West know little about this popular fruit. From it's colorful origins to its wild history, there are many unexpected revelations about the banana.
- [Are Most Diseases Caused by Eating the Wrong Food?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:are-most-diseases-caused-by-eating-wrong-food/) - Should you believe the claim that all poor health is caused by improper nutrition? Does science say that most diseases are caused by eating the wrong food?
- [Frankenstein Chicken? Why Kentucky Fried Chicken Changed Its Name to KFC](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:frankenstein-chicken-why-did-kentucky-fried-chicken-changed-name/) - Kentucky Fried Chicken has been the subject of many urban legends. One of the more recent concerns the name being changed to KFC because of Frankenstein chicken.
- [Giant Catfish Legends: As Big as Volkswagens!](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:the-legend-of-the-giant-catfish/) - Giant catfish stories are common. Especially in the South, Midwest, or Southwest, you'll hear about the giant catfish lurking at the bottom, near dams.
- [Why is Chocolate Flavored Coffee Called Mocha?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:why-is-chocolate-flavored-coffee-called-mocha/) - Generally, mocha refers to any coffee with chocolate flavoring. So, what is the origin of the term? What does it have to do with chocolate and coffee?
- [Who Invented Chicken Nuggets?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:who-invented-chicken-nuggets/) - Many people assume McDonald's invented chicken nuggets. It's fair to say that McDonald's popularized chicken nuggets, but it was long after they were invented.
- [Exaggerated Claims About the Harmful Effects of Aspartame](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:exaggerated-claims-harmful-aspartame-effects/) - This is the third article in a series of articles about the artificial sweetener aspartame. You may want to first read about how aspartame was invented and how it's made, as well as the warning on phenylketonurics regarding aspartame. As stated previously, aspartame is the subject of a protracted "mythinformation" campaign, causing many to unreasonably fear and malign
- [What Is Aspartame and How Was It Invented?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:what-is-aspartame-and-how-was-it-invented/) - Aspartame is an artificial sweetener used in many sugar-free or diet food and beverage products, most famously in Diet Coke, which is also available with Splenda. This non-nutritive sugar substitute gets such a great deal of bad press and is the subject of a very intensive misinformation campaign. ♥♥♥♥♥ Low on time? Click here to zoom to
- [Is It An Asian Custom To Rub Chopsticks Together Before Eating?](https://culinarylore.com/dining:is-it-an-asian-custom-to-rub-chopsticks-together-before-eating/) - Many diners at Asian restaurants believe that it is proper to rub your chopsticks together before eating. They even believe this is part of Asian tradition whether Chinese, Japanese, or other Asian culture. If asked why they do this, they will explain either that it is customary or that it is necessary to remove splinters
- [Should You Rinse Chicken Before Cooking It?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:should-you-rinse-chicken-before-cooking-it/) - I was watching the latest episode of The Profitwith Marcus Leomonis last night and one of the segments spurred me to write about something I was not going to bother writing about because I thought it was thoroughly covered: Should you rinse raw chicken in the sink before preparing and cooking it? The episode featured a
- [Acetic Acid In Foods](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:acetic-acid-in-foods/) - The food additive acetic acid is an organic acid formed by the metabolism of nutrients and by vinegar fermentation. Along with its acetate salts, it is a normal metabolic intermediate produced by such bacteria as Acetobacter. It may also sometimes be synthesized de novo from carbon dioxide such as by microorganisms like Clostridium thermoaceticum. Acetic acid or acetates are
- [Lorings Fat-ten-u & Corpula Fattening Food - Vintage Ad, c. 1895](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:fatten-u-and-corpula-fattening-food-vintage-ad/) - The fat loss industry is a multi-billion dollar one. It is rife with fraudulent promises and outright pseudoscience. The advertisement on this page illustrates a fascinating fact. During the 1800s, the "fattening" industry was just as rife with pseudo-scientific ramblings and fraudulent promises as the fat loss industry is today. Being thin wasn't always the
- [Video Exploring Korean Street Food in Gwangjang Market, Seoul](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:exploring-korean-street-food-gwangjang-market/) - In this video Mark Wiens explores an exotic and bewildering array of colorful and delicious Korean food at Gwangjang Market, in Seoul, South Korea. He takes you on a tour of the market, and samples several dishes like ttŏkbokki, rice cakes simmered in red chile curry, which is one of the most popular street food in
- [What Goes Into P.F Chang's Ever-Popular Chicken Lettuce Wraps?](https://culinarylore.com/dining:what-goes-into-pf-changs-chicken-lettuce-wraps/) - What is P.F. Changs most popular dish? Chicken Lettuce Wraps, of course. A starter that makes you want to eat them as a meal. Of course, lettuce wraps are always a favorite, whether vegetarian or chicken, in better Chinese restaurants. There is something about the refreshing crisp of iceberg lettuce and the spicy, chewy, crispy
- [How Are Liqueurs Made?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:how-are-liqueurs-made/) - As explained in What is a Liqueur?, liqueurs combine a base spirit or "liquor" with various natural flavoring ingredients. Unless a specific base spirit is indicated, you can usually be safe in assuming that it is a neutral or grain-based spirit. The method of extraction depends on the ingredients being used. There are three main ways to
- [What is Advocaat Liqueur?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:what-is-advocaat-liqueur/) - Advocaat is a Dutch liqueur that is very thick, rich, and creamy with a yellow color. Usually made with a brandy base, it contains egg yolks, lots of sugar, and vanilla. Spices such as nutmeg or cinnamon are sometimes added. Advocaat can be thought of as something like an egg custard liqueur, or simply as
- [What is the Oldest Candy Company in America?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:oldest-candy-company/) - The oldest mass-produced candy, continually produced in an unchanged form, is probably the NECCO wafer. But, is NECCO the oldest candy company
- [Why Do Silica Gel Desiccant Packets Say DO NOT EAT When Silica is Added to Foods?](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:why-do-silica-gel-packets-say-do-not-eat/) - Even though silica is used in foods, silica gel desiccant packets say "do not eat." If silica cannot be eaten, why is it allowed to be added to foods?
- [Why Does "Red Herring" Mean a Diversion or False Trail?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-of-red-herring-expression/) - The phrase 'red herring' refers to a diversionary tactic meant to set us off in an irrelevant direction. What does a fish have to do with diversion and logic?
- [Origin of "Man Does Not Live By Bread Alone"](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-of-man-does-not-live-by-bread-alone/) - Today, when we say "man does not live by bread alone", we simply mean that humans need more than the basic necessities to live, whatever those other things may be. Usually, we are speaking of abstract "spiritual" needs as opposed to material ones. This expression is an ancient one and actually comes from the Bible. This
- ['There's No Such Thing As a Free Lunch' Origin](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:no-such-thing-as-a-free-lunch/) - When we say 'there's no such thing as a free lunch,' we mean to express that there are few things in life that are truly given to us at no cost or for free. There are usually strings or at least expectations attached. The cost of goods or services has to come from somewhere. In
- [What Was the First Diet Soda?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:what-was-the-first-diet-soda/) - The first diet soda was called No-Cal Ginger Ale, created by Hyman Kirsch, a Russian immigrant to New York. Canada Dry followed with their own diet soda.
- [Why Does Low Fat Milk Only Come in 1% and 2%? Why not 3%, 4%, etc?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:why-does-low-fat-milk-only-come-1-and-2-percent/) - It seems odd that milk comes in 1% or 2% reduced-fat versions but not in 3 or 4%. The confusion is caused by not understanding what the percentages represent.
- [What's the Max Amount of Beer or Wine I Can Make At Home for Personal Use?](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:how-much-beer-or-wine-can-i-make/) - Since 1978, home-brewing beer for personal use has been legal. But, how much constitutes "personal use?" What's the max amount of beer or wine you can make?
- [What Was The First Bubble Gum Brand?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-was-the-first-bubble-gum/) - The first bubble gum that actually blew into reliable bubbles and was sold in stores was Dubble Bubble bubble gum, introduced in 1928 by the Fleer chewing Gum Company of Philadelphia. Earlier, in 1906, the owner of the company, Frank Fleer, had attempted to market a bubble gum under the name of Blibber-Blubber. Unfortunately, this early bubble gum would end
- [Why Did Crystal Pepsi Fail?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:why-did-crystal-pepsi-fail/) - Targeting the health-minded, Crystal Pepsi was an attempt to market Pepsi as a clear instead of colored beverage. It lasted from 1992 to 1994. Why did it fail?
- [Origin Of 'Hot Potato' Expression](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-of-hot-potato-expression/) - What does a hot potato have to do something is controversial, awkward, embarrassing, difficult, unpleasant to deal with, etc. Learn the origin of the expression.
- ['Just Mayo' Fakes Out Consumers with Mayonnaise Free Mayo](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:just-mayo-fakes-out-consumers-with-mayonnaise-free/) - Hellmann's Company has Withdrawn Its Suit Against Just Mayo Hampton Creek, the company behind Just Mayo, a product that is not mayonnaise, just got out of a lawsuit filed by Unilever, the maker of Hellmann's Real Mayonnaise, on the grounds that the name of Just Mayo is false advertising since the product contains no egg,
- [Was Ketchup Banned In French Schools?](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:was-ketchup-banned-in-french-schools/) - In 2011, media outfits from the LA Times to Gawker began reporting the curious case of the French war on ketchup. In fact, Gawker chose this as the headline, "France Wages War on Ketchup." According to these stories, France, in an effort to protect the integrity of its traditional cuisine and to combat the influence
- [Red Dye No. 40 Kills Celery?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:red-dye-no-40-kills-celery/) - According to a popular Facebook image, placing celery into red dye no. 40 dissolved in water kills the celery. Yet, the celery placed in green and blue dye seem quite healthy.
- [Where Was the First Automated Grocery Scanner Used?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:where-was-the-first-automated-grocery-scanner-used/) - Checkers no longer need to enter each price into a cash register. Today, we can even scan our own groceries. Where was the first automated grocery scanner used?
- [Food Products That Grocery Stores Lose Money On](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:food-products-that-grocery-stores-lose-money-on/) - There are certain foods, called "loss leaders," sold at such low prices in grocery stores that the store loses money on them. What types of products are these?
- [What Is Malted Milk?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-is-malted-milk/) - Malted milk is a mixture of whole powdered milk, malted barley, & wheat. It is often erroneously reported that malted milk was invented for use at soda fountains.
- [Do You Really Need to Sift Together Dry Ingredients for Baking?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-tips:do-you-need-to-sift-together-dry-ingredients/) - What does it mean to sift together dry ingredients? Why do baking recipes say to do this? What does it accomplish? Should you do it or can you skip this step?
- [Substitute for Sifted Flour When You Don't Have a Sifter](https://culinarylore.com/substitutions:substitute-for-sifted-flour-when-you-dont-have-a-sifter/) - Many baking recipes call for amounts of sifted flour. When flour is sifted and then measured by volume (in measuring cups), the amount of flour will be less than if the flour was not sifted. I've already revealed that sifting dry ingredients together is a waste of time. But when you must have your flour
- ['Flour, Sifted' Versus 'Sifted Flour'](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-terms:flour-sifted-versus-sifted-flour/) - You've seen both in baking recipes and no doubt you thought they were the same thing. Flour, sifted simply seems like a different way of saying sifted flour. Well, many people, when they use these terms in a recipe, probably do use them interchangeably but technically, they are different. Flour, sifted, means that you should measure the flour first and then sift
- [Lobster Used to Be Food for Prisoners, Animals, or the Very Poor](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:lobster-used-to-be-food-for-prisoners-animals/) - I have a confession. I don't like lobster. I don't like the taste, or the texture. I love the lowly shrimp much better than the lobster. Is this because I grew up on the seafood of the Gulf states where shrimp is more abundant and better appreciated? If I had grown up in Maine or
- [What does "D & D" Mean in Restaurant Jargon?](https://culinarylore.com/dining:what-does-d-and-d-mean-in-restaurant-jargon/) - D & D (D and D), in professional restaurant lingo, stands for dine and dash. But, it doesn't refer to customers in a hurry who need to get in and out fast.
- [Why Do the British Say Biscuit Instead of Cookie?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:why-do-the-british-say-biscuit-instead-of-cookie/) - In a previous article, I explained why Americans call the British biscuit (a sweet biscuit) a "cookie." In this article, I'm going to explain the opposite. Why do the British call the cookie a biscuit? As I previously explained, the word cookie came from a Dutch word for "little cakes" and got its start in
- [Were Tea Bags Created By Accident?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:were-tea-bags-created-by-accident/) - Most of us brew tea with tea bags. Tea bags truly are a great convenience. So, it's surprising to hear that tea bags were invented by accident. Is this true?
- [Can I Become a Chef's Apprentice?](https://culinarylore.com/education:can-i-become-a-chefs-apprentice/) - You may think to become a chef you must go to culinary school and then seek work in a restaurant. But, the most time-honored way is to be a chef's apprentice.
- [Will I Have Homework in Culinary School?](https://culinarylore.com/education:will-i-have-homework-in-culinary-school/) - Many students imagine culinary school as one long cooking class. A grumpy chef shows you how to make a dish and watches you while he shakes his head and grunts.
- [Classic Fuzzy Navel Drink Recipe](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:classic-fuzzy-navel-drink-recipe/) - The Fuzzy Navel comes from a generation of drinks that inspires detractors. But if you like a mimosa for brunch, you'd probably enjoy this peachy alternative.
- [How Is Sugar Made? What Kinds of Sugar Are There?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:how-is-sugar-made-what-kinds-of-sugar-are-there/) - The word sugar is used differently in chemistry and culinary discussions. The word sugar, chemically, can be used to refer to monosaccharides or disaccharides themselves, rather than to refined white sugar and other sugar products. This article concerns "sugar" as the word is commonly used, referring to a refined product or the type of products
- [Why Are Potatoes Called Spuds?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:why-are-potatoes-called-spuds/) - Calling potatoes spuds seems to be quite a random way to name them. There are a few competing stories for the origin of the spud for potatoes. Which is true?
- [Do Ripe Bananas Contain Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) Making them an Anti-Cancer Food?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:do-ripe-bananas-contain-tumor-necrosis-factor-tnf/) - A viral social media post asserts claims it only takes one ripe banana a day to fight cancer, owing to the presence of TNF. This would be wonderful if true
- [What is Banana Oil?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:what-is-banana-oil/) - The idea of banana oil seems confusing as it's difficult to imagine getting oil from a banana since commercial varieties have no seeds. Indeed, bananas produce no commercial oil, and so-called banana oil is a synthetic liquid such as isoamyl acetate or amyl acetate that are used as flavorings. Occurring as a colorless, clear liquid,
- [First Popular Character on Kid's School Lunch Boxes?](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:first-popular-character-on-school-lunch-boxes/) - Decorated school lunchboxes existed as early as the 1920s. But, the first popular character on a school kid's lunchbox was none other than Mickey Mouse, in 1935.
- [What is the Difference Between Convection and Induction Cooking?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:difference-between-convection-induction-cooking/) - Convection and induction cooking have nothing to do with one another, but they sound similar enough to cause confusion. What's the real difference between them?
- [Is it OK to Eat Expired Canned Foods? How Long Do They Last?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:is-it-ok-to-eat-canned-food-past-expiration/) - How long is canned food good for after the expiration date? Do foods like canned soup go bad? What do the expiration dates mean? Can you eat it after it expires?
- [Weight To Volume Baking Conversions For Dry Ingredients](https://culinarylore.com/measurements:weight-to-volume-conversions-dry-ingredients/) - There are two primary ways to measure ingredients in the kitchen: by weight and by volume. Bakers prefer to weigh most dry or solid ingredients, as this ensures accuracy and consistency. Weight measurements are more suitable and accurate for dry and solid ingredients, such as flour. Volume measurements are more suited to liquid ingredients. This is
- [What Is Sloe Gin?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:what-is-sloe-gin/) - Sloe Gin, used in the classic Sloe Gin Fizz, is not a type of gin, but rather a gin liqueur that is flavored with slow berries (Prunus spinosa). The berries are steeped in gin to extract their flavor, sugar is added, and the resulting liqueur is filtered. Sloe gins used used to be made, in small
- [Are Restaurants Using Bigger Glasses To Fool You Into Ordering More Wine?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:restaurants-using-bigger-wine-glasses-to-fool-you/) - A recent article in New York magazine called A Dumb Way Restaurants Trick (‘Trick’) You Into Drinking More Wine implied that the title claim is true: restaurants and bars use oversized wine glasses to trick you into drinking and ordering more wine. Is it true? Are you being victimized by large wine glasses? Well, the article actually
- [Why Do Waiters Ask You if You Want a Drink First?](https://culinarylore.com/dining:why-do-waiters-ask-you-if-you-want-a-drink-first/) - Let's be honest, even as we ask this question, we know that we probably don't want to sit in a restaurant reading a menu without anything to drink. It gives us something to do and in the case of alcohol, it helps us relax, leading to a more pleasant evening as long as we drink
- [Candy Making Sugar Stages](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:candy-making-sugar-stages/) - To make a successful confection, you need to know basic facts like the candy making sugar stages, from soft ball to hard crack stage. It's an art AND a science.
- [Eating Humble Pie: How Did This Expression Come About?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:eating-humble-pie/) - To eat humble pie is to be humiliated and forced to admit error or wrongdoing. It may surprise you to know that 'eating humble pie' was not always metaphorical.
- [Origin of the Expression 'Worth Your Salt'](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:worth-your-salt/) - When we say someone is worth their salt, we mean literally that he or she earns whatever reward they get. But how did salt come to be a measurement of worth?
- [Are Service Animals Such as Guide Dogs Allowed in Restaurants?](https://culinarylore.com/dining:are-service-animals-allowed-in-restaurants/) - Health and safety codes usually exclude pets from food-service locations, such as restaurants or grocery stores. You are not allowed to bring your pet dog or cat into a restaurant, and this is not just because of the restaurant owner's whim, it is a health code violation. Do these same codes apply to service animals
- [What is the Origin of the Doggie Bag?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-of-the-doggie-bag/) - Most of us don't stop to think about why we call a bag or container used to bring home leftover food from a restaurant a "doggie bag." It's rarely for the dog!
- [Do McDonald’s Hamburgers Really Never Rot?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:do-mcdonalds-hamburgers-really-never-rot/) - It is well-known, according to the internet, that McDonald's hamburgers never rot. I don't know how long this fast-food myth has been making the rounds, but it has been around quite a few years. In this article, I will examine this claim and see whether it stands up to scrutiny. The idea that certain commercial
- [Did You Know Cheeseburger Is A Trademark?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:cheeseburger-is-a-trademarked-term/) - It's obvious that cheeseburger is a generic term, but you may not know that wasn't always necessarily the case. In fact, the word cheeseburger was once registered as a trademark! The history of hamburgers is a subject unto itself, but you can find good explanations of how the hamburger came to be from many sources
- [What Are Grains Of Paradise?](https://culinarylore.com/spices:what-are-grains-of-paradise/) - Grains of Paradise, or melegueta pepper (aframomum melegueta), are the small brown to black seeds of a perennial reedlike plant in the Ginger family, or zingiberaceae. The plant is also related to cardamom. Indigenous to the West Coast of Africa and growing in swampy terrain, the seeds look like small black peppercorns with a white interior
- [Origin of Expression 'Acknowledge the Corn'](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-of-expression-acknowledge-the-corn/) - The strange, and somewhat archaic expression "acknowledge the corn," seems to mean admitting to a crime. What is the origin and history of this curious phrase?
- [How Hot are Serrano Chili Peppers? Scoville Heat Rating](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:serrano-chili-pepper-scoville-heat-rating/) - Serrano chili peppers are similar to a jalapeno, but smaller and hotter. Learn their Scoville Heat Unit Rating and get other facts about this common pepper.
- [Is It Legal to Distill Alcohol for Personal Use?](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:is-it-legal-to-distill-alcohol-for-personal-use/) - Many Americans believe that it is legal to distil liquors like whiskey or gin for your personal use as long as you don't sell it. Learn why this is not true!
- [What is the Oldest Hamburger Chain in the United States?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:oldest-hamburger-chain-in-the-us/) - You'd be forgiven for thinking that McDonald's is the oldest hamburger chain in the U.S. But, there is no disputing it. The oldest hamburger restaurant chain in the United States is White Castle. The first White Castle restaurant opened in Wichita, Kansas, in 1921. The first McDonald's didn't open until 1948, by comparison. Founding of
- [Who First Said "You Are What You Eat?"](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:who-first-said-you-are-what-you-eat/) - The phrase "you are what you eat" has been repeated many times, but each person saying it may have had a slightly different agenda. Sometimes, the agenda is to promote viewpoints on nutrition and health. You are what you eat, and if you eat "bad food" you will have bad health. Or, perhaps, you'll even
- [Don't Eat Blackberries After September 29! And Other Superstitions](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:no-blackberries-after-september-29/) - Among the many historical myths and superstitions about blackberries, the most widespread is that you shouldn't eat blackberries after a certain day of the year.
- [Is Outback Steakhouse Really Australian?](https://culinarylore.com/dining:is-outback-steakhouse-really-australian/) - Since most of the food served at Outback Steakhouse is not so different than other steakhouse chains, you be wondering is outback steakhouse Australian at all?
- [How Did Hush Puppies Get Their Name?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:how-did-hush-puppies-get-their-name/) - There's heated debate about which Southern state originated hush puppies. How did hush puppies get their name? There is one story that seems to be the most popular.
- [Origin Of 'Kill The Fatted Calf' Expression](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-of-kill-the-fatted-calf-expression/) - To kill the fatted calf is to prepare a huge celebratory feast, especially to welcome someone. It means to have a big party with lots of food and drink. The American Heritage Dictionary Of Idioms defines it as "to prepare for a joyful occasion or a warm welcome." An example would be a long lost beloved relative coming
- [What's the Origin of the Word Nosh for Snack?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-of-nosh-for-snack/) - Nosh can be a noun or a verb. A between-meal snack is a nosh. Or, if you are hungry but it's not yet dinner time, you can nosh. Sometimes, as well, a nosh is any food or meal. A nosher is someone who eats between meals or who has a sweet-tooth. It may also refer to someone who has
- [Azodicarbonamide: A Yoga Mat Toxin In Bread?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:azodicarbonamide-yoga-mat-toxin-in-bread/) - Azodicarbonamide is a chemical made famous in the United States by Van Hari aka The Food Babe as "the chemical in yoga mats" as well as rubber shoes. It is used as a foaming agent to help in making certain kinds of plastics. Van Hari claimed that this 'yoga mat toxin' was used as an ingredient
- [What Were the First Cereal Box Prizes?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-were-the-first-cereal-box-prizes/) - Finding a prize in the bottom of a cereal box is a happy childhood memory for many of us. It was one of the best parts of grocery day for a child growing up in the 1960s or 70s, and perhaps even before. The cereal was secondary to the prize, and whether or not the cereal
- [7 Big Myths About SPAM Everybody Believes](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:7-big-myths-about-spam/) - Hormel introduced SPAM in 1937, making the product 87 years old. No matter how much disdain foodies may have for it, SPAM isn't going anywhere, much like its namesake that ends up in your inbox. No, the name does not stand for "Scientifically Processed Animal Matter," and there is nothing particularly scientific about its creation
- [What's the Difference Between Tequila and Mezcal?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:whats-the-difference-between-tequila-and-mezcal/) - To many, mezcal is tequila's rotgut cousin. But, mass-market and cheap mezcals do not define mezcal. So, what's the real difference between tequila and mezcal?
- [Does the Military Really Slip Men Saltpeter to Decrease Their Sex Drive?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:military-gives-saltpeter-to-men/) - There has long been a belief that the military, prisons, ships, or even colleges sneak saltpeter into food or water in an effort to decrease the male sex drive.
- [Are These Food Examples of the Mandela Effect?](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:are-these-food-examples-of-the-mandella-effect/) - Ed McMahon used to deliver giant checks to people for Publishers Clearing House. We all saw him do it on television commercials during the 1980s. Only, there is no evidence this ever happened. This is an example of the shared memory phenomenon known as the Mandella Effect. According to Buzzfeed, there are 23 food examples
- [Barnum's Animal Crackers by Nabisco: When Did They First Come Out?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:when-did-barnums-animal-crackers-come-out/) - Nabisco's Animal Crackers, which come in the familiar red box with what looks like a circus train full of colorful animals, is not the only brand of animal crackers. There are others. But Nabisco's Animal Crackers have always been the most popular, not only because of the animal shaped cookies but because of the box
- [Banana Wackies Cereal from General Mills, 1965](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:banana-wackies-cereal/) - Banana Wackies cereal is a forgotten cereal that was introduced by General Mills in 1965. The boxes actually only read 'Wackies' cereal, but the television commercials used the name Banana Wackies. General Mills ran a series of animated television commercials featuring a small boy and a talking gorilla, using the catch-phrase "what's wackier than a __ gorilla,"
- [Are You Supposed to Say Kilocalorie or KCal When Discussing Calories?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:are-you-supposed-to-say-kilocalorie-or-kcal-when-discussing-calories/) - Myth: You are not supposed to say "calorie" you are supposed to say kcal or kilocalorie, otherwise you are not being precise. The following is a short and informal explanation explaining and debunking this myth. For a very long time, nutritionists and everyone else who cares, have been using the tacit assumption that the term
- [Are Tomatoes Fruits or Vegetables? Find Out the Truth!](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:are-tomatoes-fruits-or-vegetables-truth/) - You know what professional cook cares whether the tomato is a fruit? Because I'm not aware of one. We have a great misconception about fruits, but here is one thing that can set you free of the chains of grade school science pushers: There is more than one way to classify a vegetable and the
- [British Food and Cooking Terms for Americans](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:british-food-and-cooking-terms-for-americans/) - For the most part, the language we use for food and cooking, in the US and the UK, is identical. However, British folks do use some terms that we Americans might find strange or confusing. This is especially problematic when trying to use British recipes or cookbooks. Here is a list of food terms that
- [Cheese Contains More Than 70% Fat?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:cheese-contains-70-percent-fat/) - Everybody loves cheese! Right? Any food that we love will have its very vocal detractors. One that note, a Facebook meme about cheese caught my eye a while ago and I thought it would provide a good lesson in fake reasonableness. Attributed to Dr. Neal Barnard, this statement says two things about cheese, but only one
- [Can You Make A Stainless Steel Pan Nonstick?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:can-you-make-a-stainless-steel-pan-nonstick/) - Stainless steel aluminum-clad pans are unbeatable for their value and reliability. They are supremely durable and have excellent heat distribution and retention. They also cool down more quickly than a cast iron pan which can be unsuitable for more delicate cooking jobs. But, stainless steel pans stick! Most people avoid cooking eggs in them completely.
- [Can You Inhale Food Into Your Lungs?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:can-you-inhale-food-into-your-lungs/) - This sounds like a nightmare to me. You are eating and a bit of food goes down "the wrong way." Instead of going down your esophagus, it goes down your trachea. Most of the time, food that does this gets stuck in our trachea and we are in danger of choking if it is not
- [Did Sunny Delight Turn Someone's Skin Orange? Fact Check](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:did-sunny-delight-turn-someones-skin-orange-fact-check/) - Sunny Delight, long called Sunny D, which is how it is known today, is an orange-flavored beverage that is not without controversy throughout its long history. One of the biggest scandals was that it supposedly turned a little girl's skin orange after she habitually consumed large quantities of the drink. Did this really happen or
- [Did Ronald Reagan Say Ketchup Was a Vegetable?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:did-reagon-really-say-ketchup-was-a-vegetable/) - During Ronald Reagan's terms as president, I was in junior high and then high school. At some point during that time he became a running joke during lunch period. When French fries were served, or anything else involving ketchup, we'd say "Good thing Ronald Reagan says ketchup is a vegetable." Did President Ronald Reagan really
- [Did Marie Antoinette Really Say 'Let Them Eat Cake?'](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:did-marie-antoinette-say-let-them-eat-cake/) - The French queen, Marie Antoinette is known as being an awful ruler. But, was she as terrible as people think? Did Marie Antoinette really say "Let them eat cake?"
- [Cuba Libre Cocktail: How Did Rum and Coke Get This Name?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:cuba-libre-cocktail-how-did-rum-and-coke-get-the-name/) - If you ever watched the movie Rough Riders, you may remember a scene where Teddy Roosevelt, played by Tom Berenger (probably the best TD ever), wandered over to a group of Cubans in the jungle saying "Cuba Libre." He uttered it almost as a question but, in case you were a bit confused, he was not
- [Do You Have to Buy Avocados Ripe?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:do-you-have-to-buy-avocados-ripe/) - Most grocery stores tend to sell avocados green. This led to what I found to be a curious bit of advice in a cooking tips article I was reading: Buy your avocados in a Mexican grocery store because they sell them ripe. Does this mean you must buy your avocados ripe?
- [Why Combine Cake Mix and Soda?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-tips:why-combine-cake-mix-and-soda/) - Some so-called hacks are anything but a hack. Here's an easy homemade cake hack! Buy a cake mix and follow the package directions. It'll change your life! Not a hack. But mixing cake mix and soda pop, now that's a hack. The reason it will change your life is because it makes a delicious soda
- [Difference Between Whole Grain and Multi-Grain Bread](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:difference-between-whole-grain-and-multi-grain-bread/) - Although multigrain bread seems very attractive and nutritious, it should not be taken as a more healthy replacement for whole grain bread. Most multigrain breads resemble white breads more than they do whole grain breads. In order to be labeled whole grain, a bread has to use the entire unrefined grain, including the bran, germ,
- [A Completely Black Chicken, Inside And Out?](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:a-completely-black-chicken-inside-and-out/) - The Ayam Cemani of Indonesia, Black Skin, Organs, and Even Bones The Ayam Cemani of Indonesia is black. I would say the Ayam Cemani chicken, but this would be redundant, as ayam is the Indonesian word for chicken. A black chicken is not so unusual. My grandmother had black chickens, from time to time, on her chicken
- [Is Your Balsamic Vinegar the Real Thing?](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:is-your-balsamic-vinegar-the-real-thing/) - Do you have a bottle of aged balsamic vinegar in your cupboard right now? Chances are that if you bought it for five or ten bucks from the grocery store shelf, the bottle of stuff in your cabinet claiming to be balsamic vinegar is not really what it purports to be. In preparation for this article,
- [Store Food Correctly In The Fridge To Reduce Waste](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:store-food-correctly-in-the-fridge-to-reduce-waste/) - Americans throw away half of all their food amounting to $160 billion every year. 77% say they feel guilty about their food waste, but they don’t seem to know how to reduce it. Simply storing food correctly can help to reduce food waste and there’s just a few dos and don’ts you need to know to get the best shelf life from your food. 90% of food is thrown away too soon and a lot of this is down to not understanding the labels on packaging.
- [Why Does Morton Salt Use the Slogan When It Rains it Pours?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:morton-salt-when-it-rains/) - Morton Salt Company has been using the slogan when it rains it pours, together with the familiar Morton Salt Girl carrying her umbrella, since 1911. I've always found this a curious choice since the idiom alludes to trouble which comes in multiples. Morton, however, was referring to its salt ability to pour even when it rains. This logo
- [Are Earthworms Dangerous For Dogs To Eat?](https://culinarylore.com/other:are-earthworms-dangerous-for-dogs-to-eat/) - Take a look at the little guy in the photo below. This little guy, a common earthworm, is completely safe to eat, as long as you cook it. An important question, however, came up in a Labrador retriever forum where the article referenced in the link above was shared for reference. Can dogs eat worms? What
- [Why Does Boiling Temperature Decrease at Higher Altitudes?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:why-boiling-temp-decreases-at-higher-altitudes/) - As I pointed out in my article about adding salt to water to make pasta cook faster, the boiling temperature of water decreases 1° F for every 500 feet climb in altitude. This means, incredibly, that if you boil water on top of Mt. Everest, which is around 29,000 feet, water would boil at around 154°
- [What Are Funeral Potatoes?](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:what-are-funeral-potatoes/) - Funeral Potatoes are a cheesy casserole of potatoes that seems to have originated in Utah. This dish is all but expected at post-funeral meals and is also used during religious events or holidays. I have a friend, whose family is Mormon, that makes these potatoes every Thanksgiving, although I did not, at first, realize the
- [Who Was Brownie Mary?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:who-was-brownie-mary/) - Brownie Mary is probably the only person in history to be arrested on brownie-related charges. On January 14, 1981, the police raided her home and found over fifty dozen marijuana (cannabis) brownies along with over 18 pounds of marijuana yet to be, pardon the pun, baked. Her real name was Mary Jane Rathbun. Her punishment
- [Is Sugar Really Addictive?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:is-sugar-really-addictive/) - The next time someone tells something is addictive, ask one of the most important questions you can. Kids know this question well: WHY? One of the many manifestations of the current state of food-fear and alarmism, and certainly a claim of many alternative fat loss gurus is that sugar is addictive. Why? Why is sugar addictive? What
- [Is It True That Grapefruit Interacts With Many Drugs?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:is-it-true-that-grapefruit-interacts-with-drugs/) - Many people do not realize how many potential reactions there are between common foods and pharmaceutical drugs. Some of these interactions may just cause the drug to be less effective, but others can be dangerous. If you've ever been prescribed a drug and been warned to avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice, it is because grapefruit
- [Postum, That Vintage Coffee Drink](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:postum-that-vintage-coffee-drink/) - Charley Post, the inventor of Grape-Nuts, the coffee alternative Postum, and the name behind Post Cereals hated caffeine and wanted Americans to drink his Postum instead. He had a dark little secret, though: He was never able to kick his own coffee habit. Post began his company, the Postum Cereal Company to market Postum, made from wheat
- [Coconut Water Can Be Used As Human Blood Plasma?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:coconut-water-can-be-used-as-human-blood-plasma/) - Would you be surprised to find out the coconut water was identical to human blood plasma? Various Websites Claim that it's true. What if I told you it could be used as a replacement for blood plasma during absolute emergencies? You would probably be more than a bit dubious. If you are a skeptic, as
- [What Is the Difference Between Coriander and Cilantro?](https://culinarylore.com/spices:difference-between-coriander-and-cilantro/) - The terms coriander and cilantro produce confusion for novice cooks. Are they the same? Are they different? Is coriander an herb or a spice? Is it a plant or a seed? It is all of these. The confusion, however, comes from how we use both terms from a culinary standpoint versus a botanical one. Coriander
- [What Is French Dressing?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-is-french-dressing/) - If you've ever had the bright-orange to red and sickly sweet French dressing that comes out of the typical bottle, you may wonder why in the world it could be associated with the French. And, what is Catalina French dressing? Even more than bottled Italian dressings, French Dressing products sold in the United States are
- [How to Find the Freshest Loaf of Bread](https://culinarylore.com/how-to-guides:how-to-find-the-freshest-loaf-of-bread/) - If you're like me, you probably buy the same brand of sliced bread each time you shop for groceries. You know that some of the loaves are fresher than others, so you try to pick one that is as fresh as possible. You may be able to read a 'best before date' which might be
- [What Was the First Meal Eaten on the Moon?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-was-the-first-meal-eaten-on-the-moon/) - Having read more than a few accounts of the first moon landing, I am often surprised by the off-hand treatment of the many 'firsts' that occurred. I read passages like 'the astronauts ate their first meal and then…' I would think the first meal eaten on an extraterrestrial body, even if it's not a planet,
- [A Man Bought Lobster and Steak on Food Stamps?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:man-bought-steak-and-lobster-on-food-stamps/) - A viral image of a grocery store receipt from Menominee, Michigan has been circulating online since May of 2011. The receipt, from Angeli's Country Market, lists fresh cold water lobster, porterhouse steak, and diet Mountain Dew, totaling $141.78, dated February 8, 2011. So, someone was going to have a surf and turf feast. Not so
- [What Do The Recycling Codes On Plastics Mean?](https://culinarylore.com/other:what-do-the-recycling-codes-on-plastics-mean/) - When it was common for consumers to pay deposits for bottles and then return the bottles to a retailer to reclaim the deposit, the type of plastics used in the bottles were known. Now that curbside recycling or drop-off recycling centers are common, it is much more difficult to identify particular types of plastic. Plastic
- [Should You Use Unsalted Butter?](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:should-you-use-unsalted-butter/) - Most chefs and cooking instruction books say to use unsalted butter. Most home cooks tend to opt for salted butter. Salted butter has more flavor and will taste better when you smear it on your bread. Salt brings out the flavor in foods, including butter. Knowing this, why should you follow foodie instructions and use
- [You Don't Need Sea Salt on Everything](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:you-dont-need-sea-salt-on-everything/) - You can almost always safely ignore when recipes specify sea salt. Food bloggers in particular seem to be adhering to this tired and oft-debunked trend. So, I'll keep it simple: You don't have to use 'sea salt.' Sea salt and regular table salt are, by and large, the exact same thing. While some exotic sea salts
- [Does Teflon Contain PFOA?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:does-teflon-contain-pfoa/) - I do not trust the Food Network Website as a source, in general. While I might rely on it for general cooking instruction, its reliability in regard to other types of food-related information is spotty, at best. So, I wasn't surprised to find this statement in an article rating the best nonstick cookware: "...most nonstick
- [Here are Some Foods You'd Have to Eliminate To Avoid Toxins and Carcinogens](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:here-are-some-foods-youd-have-to-eliminate-to-avoid-toxins-and-carcinogens/) - Toxins and potential carcinogens are ubiquitous and the foods we eat, not as food additives, but as naturally occurring compounds. Even the much-feared cyanide compounds are everywhere. However, they are present in such small amounts we can metabolize them or prevent them from being converted to cyanide (by cooking or by exposure to stomach acid). The
- [Does Eating the Right Food Make You Feel Better?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:does-eating-the-right-food-make-you-feel-better/) - Most of the things that afflict us, we get over, without doing anything at all. And, whatever we're doing at the time, is going to get the credit. This statement was spoken by Dr. Robert Park, author of Voodoo Science. He was talking about alternative medicine, but the statement can be applied to eating to
- [Is There Titanium Dioxide in Salad Dressings and Other Foods?](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:titanium-dioxide-in-salad-dressings-and-foods/) - Titanium dioxide is something we associate with paint and industrial use, so it seems scary to contemplate its use in the food we eat. Titanium, after all, is a heavy metal. However, some titanium dioxide is used in foods such as ranch dressing and other creamy salad dressings, where it serves as a whitener. Is
- [Instant Portable Ice Maker to Make Ice Almost Instantly](https://culinarylore.com/tools:make-ice-almost-instantly/) - We've come a long way. From ice chopped out of frozen lakes and stored placed in ice-boxes, to refrigerators, to refrigerators with tiny freezers, to stand-alone freezers, to larger refrigerators with bigger freezers, to automatic ice makers in our freezers. Gone are the days of cumbersome ice trays cluttering up our precious freezer space. Then
- [What is Xylanase in the Food Industry?](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:xylanase-in-food/) - Xylanase is any one of a class of enzymes produced by some microorganisms. These enzymes are involved in breaking down the hemicellulose in the cell walls of plants. Specifically, xylanase hydrolyzes a principal component of hemicellulose called xylan and arabinoxylan. Xylanase is used in the food industry for bread making, the production of corn starch, clarification of fruit
- [Safeway Customers Sent Hoax Email](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:safeway-customers-sent-hoax-email/) - Safeway Customers Received a Bogus Email Announcing a Huge Price Increase and a Suggestion they Shop Elsewhere Imagine getting an email from your grocery store telling you that they were going to increase their prices by 25% and that perhaps you should shop somewhere else. This is exactly what happened to over 1,000 Safeway customers in
- [What Is a Food Bank?](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:what-is-a-food-bank/) - A food bank is an organization which collects, stores, packs, and distributes food and other needed items to people who need it, whether they cannot afford the food they need or are unable to get to a grocery store. However, there is much ambiguity in defining a 'food bank' as opposed to a food pantry or neighborhood
- [Sick From White Tuna Sushi?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:sick-from-white-tuna-sushi/) - You eat sushi, and 30 minutes to an hour later you have terrible diarrhea, stomach cramping, and maybe even, dare I mention it?…anal leakage. What's more, your stool is orange, oily, and greasy. There is a name for this, believe it or not: Keriorrhea. It is named specifically to describe what is happening because of
- [Origin of the Word Alcohol](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-of-the-word-alcohol/) - The word alcohol has a strange origin. First, it comes from a part of the world where many people never, ever drink alcohol. Where it is, in fact, often against the law to do so: the Middle East. It also comes from a word that has nothing to do with a liquid, nor an intoxicating substance
- [How Did Le Cordon Bleu Cooking School Get Its Name?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:how-le-cordon-bleu-cooking-school-got-its-name/) - Le Cordon Bleu, established in 1895, is a Parisian institution. No, I don't mean an institution as in "culinary institute," but an icon, and a fixture. Today, as a culinary school, it is an international institution. Why the name "cordon bleu?" Today, we use the term "blue ribbon" to denote the pinnacle of skill or
- [Which Came First, Angel Food or Devil's Food Cake?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:which-came-first-angels-food-devils-food-cake/) - In this article, I am going to explore the history behind the Devil's food cake in particular, but first, I will answer the burning question: Which came first, Devil's Food cake or Angel food cake? In other words, is Devil's food cake the chocolate version of Angel food? Did someone invent either one intentionally to oppose
- [What Are Duchess Potatoes?](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:what-are-duchess-potatoes/) - Duchess (or duchesse) potatoes are mashed potatoes pureed with egg yolks, whole eggs, or a combination of whole eggs and egg yolks, and butter. Cheese, seasonings, and other flavorings are sometimes added. The fluffy pureed mixture is served as a side dish, formed into small shapes or piped from a pastry bag for a decorative accompaniment, or
- [Was McDonald's the First Fast Food Chain to Use Drive-Thru Windows?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:was-mcdonalds-first-to-use-drive-thru-window/) - McDonald's is such a fast food icon that we tend to assume that most innovations in the fast-food industry must have started there. For example, it is usually assumed that McDonald's invented the 'kids meal.' And, of course, McDonald's must have invented the drive-thru window. Ironically, although McDonald's started life as a 'drive-in' restaurant, they were not
- [How To Chop Onions Like a Professional Chef](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-tips:dice-onions-like-a-professional-chef/) - If you had to chop dozens and dozens of onions every day, you wouldn't want to waste any time, would you? You'd need to do it efficiently. If you are a restaurant cook, you need to not only be quick and efficient, but you need to keep your dices as uniform as possible. Whether you are planning
- [Origin Of the Word Candy](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-of-the-word-candy/) - The word candy found its way into English as early as the 15th century. However, it was not until the 17th century that it came to be used as a standalone noun. At first, it was used in a compound word — sugar candy, a usage you will still hear occasionally. The term sugar candy came by
- [What Are Tomatillos?](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:what-are-tomatillos/) - A tomatillo (Physalis philadelphica) looks like a small green tomato covered with a pale green leaf or husk. In fact, the name tomatillo means "little tomato" in Spanish, and the fruit is indeed related to tomatoes, both being a part of the nightshade or Solanaceae family. They are close relatives of the Cape gooseberry (not a true gooseberry)
- [Does Microwaving Food Kill All The Bacteria?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:does-microwaving-food-kill-all-the-bacteria/) - It is easy to see why people would think that cooking food in the microwave kills all the bacteria. It comes from the misconception that microwaving 'irradiates' food and destroys any bacteria, along with all the nutrients. This is not true at all. The fact is, as you can learn from this article about microwaves cooking
- [High-Altitude Baking Adjustments](https://culinarylore.com/measurements:high-altitude-baking-adjustments/) - Baking at high altitudes will require some adjustments to ingredients, temperature, and baking time. If you are below 3000 feet in altitude, you do not have to make any adjustments, but any place at or above 3000 feet will require some changes to your baking procedure. The reason such high altitudes require changes in baking is because
- [What Is A Bench Scraper?](https://culinarylore.com/tools:what-is-a-bench-scraper/) - Sometimes called the baker's knife or pastry scraper, a bench scraper is a flat rectangle of metal with a rounded handle on one side. Pastry chefs use bench scrapers to cut dough into pieces, to scrape sticky dough remains off work surfaces, to fold together soft dough before kneading, or to lift a rolled dough without
- [What Was Pease Pudding?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-was-pease-pudding/) - Pease pudding hot, pease pudding cold,Pease pudding in the pot, nine days old.Some like it hot, some like it cold,Some like it in the pot - nine days old. This Mother Goose rhyme, first published in John Newberry's Mother Goose's Melody around 1760, could easily be assumed to be mere whimsy, but it actually speaks
- [Does the 'Apple of Discord' Come from Adam and Eve in the Bible?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:is-apple-of-discord-from-the-bible/) - The idiom "apple of discord" refers to anything that causes dispute or contention. When someone "throws in an apple of discord", they are doing something that causes disagreement or strife among individuals in a group. An apple of discord is anything that causes trouble among people. The expression usually has the connotation of being deliberate. It would
- [Anisette Liqueur Drink Recipes](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:anisette-liqueur-drink-recipes/) - Anisette liqueur is often consumed alone, but it is sweeter than other anise-flavored liqueurs such as pastis, ouzo, and Pernod, so many may prefer to use it in cocktails where the sweetness — not to mention the low alcohol content — will fit in well with any number of ingredients. See More Cocktails Cocktail Recipes
- [When Was Candy Corn Invented?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:when-was-candy-corn-invented/) - Candy Corn: you either love it or hate it. Those who hate it wonder who actually buys it, yet it remains synonymous with Halloween, and you'll always find it in the candy aisle at the grocery store when the holiday season causes production to ramp up. Someone must be eating the stuff. Or, maybe, as
- [What is the Origin of the Word Dessert?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-of-the-word-dessert/) - To understand how the term dessert came about, we first have to be clear on what a dessert is and is not. First, a dessert is not just another word for a sweet food. For example, if you eat a candy bar as a snack in the middle of the day, this is not a
- [What Are Mary Janes Candies?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-are-mary-janes-candies/) - Mary Jane candies are a brand of candy began in 1914 by Charles N. Miller of Boston. They are bite-sized chewy molasses and peanut butter flavored and were named after Miller's aunt. It may seem unusual to see molasses listed as a candy flavor, but during the 1800's molasses was a popular flavor for candies. A
- [Who Invented the Shopping Cart?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:who-invented-the-shopping-cart/) - The first wheeled cart that could be called a shopping cart was invented by Sylvan Nathan Goldman in 1936. But did he invent the telescoping design?
- [Which Came First: The Toaster or Sliced Bread?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:which-came-first-toaster-or-sliced-bread/) - This not-so-useful knowledge is right up CulinaryLore's alley. It would make sense to assume that the toaster, as an invention, didn't come around until after "sliced bread" was invented, making the toaster the greatest thing since sliced…well, you know. But in reality, the toaster is a good deal older than pre-sliced and packaged bread. People
- [What States Have In-N-Out Burger Locations?](https://culinarylore.com/dining:what-states-have-in-n-out-burger-locations/) - A lot of us heard of In-N-Out Burger and it's huge following. Yet, we've never had the burgers or seen a location. That's because In-N-Out only operates in 5 states. Will they expand?
- [How Did the Kiwi Fruit Get Its Name?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:how-did-the-kiwi-fruit-get-its-name/) - Up until 1952, the Kiwi, when it was known at all, was known as the Chinese Gooseberry or Melonette (Actinidia chinensis). The fruit is native to China where it grew wild. When specimens of this fruit were first sent to Europe in the late 1700s and then to London in the mid-1800s, the fruit was
- [What is the Most Consumed Drink in the World Other Than Water?](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:what-is-the-most-consumed-drink-in-the-world-other-than-water/) - Besides water, coffee, tea, milk, beer, soft drinks, and orange juice all make the list of the top beverages in the world. But there are two top contenders. Find out which one wins on Culinary Lore.
- [Does Ice Cream Really Contain Seaweed?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:does-ice-cream-really-contain-seaweed/) - You might be surprised by a connection between seaweed and ice cream! Learn the purpose of carrageenan that contributes to the smooth and creamy texture of your favorite ice cream.
- [What Is Cap'n Crunch’s Full Name?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-is-captain-crunchs-full-name/) - Cap'n Crunch, to me, is the iconic childhood breakfast cereal. I have a particular love for Peanut Butter Cap'n Crunch and no other peanut butter imitators, no matter how good, can replace it. Reese's? No way. I love Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, but give me Cap'n Crunch for peanut butter cereal. And of course, that is
- [Does Adding Salt to Water Make Pasta (and other foods) Cook Faster?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:adding-water-to-salt-make-pasta-cook-faster/) - Water boils at 212° F (100° C). That is, pure water being heated at sea level boils at this temperature. Now, once water is boiling, it will not get any hotter, so adding more heat will not decrease the cooking time of foods. Well, many people claim that one reason to put salt in your pasta
- [Is Potassium Ferrocyanide Anti-Caking Salt Additive Dangerous?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:is-potassium-ferrocyanide-anti-caking-salt-additive-dangerous/) - Any food additive with "cyanide" in the name makes me pause. Cyanide is one of the deadliest poisons known to man. Cyanide releasing compounds are found in some of the foods we eat and these foods must be thoroughly cooked or processed to render them safe. So, why in the world add such a compound
- [Why Did Jesus Say Salt Would Lose Its Flavor?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:why-did-jesus-say-salt-would-lose-its-flavor/) - A popular question is whether salt ever expires. Cartons of table salt have an expiration date, after all. But salt never expires. It just keeps on being salt, for thousands, and even millions of years. In fact, it was probably sitting in the ground for a couple million years before it was put in a
- [Are Leftover Onions Bad For You? Will They Give You Food Poisoning?](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:are-leftover-onions-bad-for-you-will-they-give-you-food-poisoning/) - How often do you use half of an onion and store the other half in a plastic bag inside the refrigerator? You may have heard the claim that leftover cut onions are a particular hazard and cause of food poisoning. This claim states that cut onions are somehow a magnet for bacteria and that you
- [What is Bibimbap?](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:what-is-bibimbap/) - Bibimbap, sometimes spelled beebimbap and pronounced bee-bim-BOP, is a popular Korean dish of rice topped with fresh and cooked vegetables and a red chili paste called gochujang. Seasoned raw or grilled beef may also be added, and a fried egg is often plopped on top. The presentation of the dish varies, but most often the separate vegetables and
- [What is the Flavor In Earl Grey Tea?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:what-is-the-flavor-in-earl-grey-tea/) - Earl Grey tea is a very popular and delicious scented black tea. The English tea company Twinings is usually credited with the first Earl Grey tea. It is a blend of black teas, usually both Indian, Chinese, and Ceylon, to which bergamot oil is added. Due to the strong flavor of the bergamot, which tastes
- [Influential and Important Early American Cookbooks](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:influential-early-american-cookbooks/) - It took near one hundred years after the first colonies were established in what was to become the United States of America for American cooks to begin publishing cookbooks. Before this, most cookbooks came from England or somewhere else abroad, either being carried over by immigrants or sent from Europe. Even then, the first cookbook
- [Should You Avoid Aluminum Foil Because Of Alzheimer's?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:should-you-avoid-aluminum-foil-because-of-alzheimers/) - Many people avoid aluminum foil, aluminum pots, aluminum-containing anti-perspiring, etc. for one reason: Alzheimer's. This feared link between aluminum and the development of Alzheimer's is not recent. The speculation and warnings began in the 1960s and found their peak in the last few decades. Aluminum exposure plays a role in and may even cause Alzheimer's
- [What Can I Substitute For Poultry Seasoning?](https://culinarylore.com/substitutions:what-can-i-substitute-for-poultry-seasoning/) - Poultry seasoning is a mainstay during Thanksgiving and Christmas. Just about everybody uses it for their turkey and stuffing (or is it dressing?). It is an herb mixture that has been around for a very long time, even before we began eating turkey during the holidays. What can you use in its place if you
- [Should You Work in a Restaurant Before Attending Culinary School?](https://culinarylore.com/education:should-you-work-in-restaurant-before-culinary-school/) - Many of those interested in becoming a chef, or pursuing some type of culinary career, become interested in food, and perhaps develop a passion for cooking, at home. Then, they decide to enroll in cooking school, and pursue their dream job: becoming the head chef at a big-time restaurant! With this in mind, one of the
- [How Did The Molotov Cocktail Get Its Name?](https://culinarylore.com/other:how-did-the-molotov-cocktail-get-its-name/) - You would not want to drink a Molotov cocktail. If you've seen enough action movies, you know why. A Molotov cocktail is a crude incendiary device (not exactly a bomb) that is made by placing a slow-burning fuse through the mouth of a bottle filled with gasoline or any highly flammable liquid. The fuse, usually
- [Origin of the Expression "Salad Days"](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:salad-days-origin-of-expression/) - The idiomatic expression Salad Days originally referred to a period of youthful inexperience, naivety, immaturity, impetuousness, or unskillful exuberance. Like many food-related expressions, the term was coined by William Shakespeare. Specifically, the term was used by Cleopatra in the play Antony and Cleopatra, meaning the expression stretches back to 1606. The beautiful Egyptian queen Cleopatra, in the
- [Pie in the Sky: Where Did This Expression Come From?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:pie-in-the-sky-expression/) - Pie in the sky is an expression of cynicism. It has various shades of meaning, but it basically refers to an idea or dream that is not likely to ever happen. When someone has an idea that they think is great, but it seems completely farfetched and maybe a bit ridiculous, we say it's "pie in
- [Three-Martini Lunch: Who Coined the Phrase?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-of-the-phrase-three-martini-lunch/) - A Three-martini lunch refers to a business lunch where martinis or other alcoholic cocktails are ordered. Since the lunch is business-related, it is used as a tax write-off, even though the martinis are a frivolous, expensive, and unnecessary addition to a lunch and are solely there to soften up the parties involved. The term three-martini lunch, therefore,
- [What Is Albany Beef?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-is-albany-beef/) - Albany beef was a humorous name for sturgeon in the Hudson River Valley area during the latter 18th through the mid-nineteenth centuries. During those times, Sturgeon, prized for caviar, was so plentiful in the Hudson River, and the fish so large, that the locals began referring to it as Albany Beef. In fact, in a
- [Is It True That Waiters Don't Make Minimum Wage?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:is-it-true-that-waiters-do-not-make-minimum-wage/) - Many people complain about the "broken" tip culture in American restaurants. They argue that waiters don't make minimum wage, and only make anywhere from say, $2.13 (the federal minimum for tipped employees, called the tip wage) to $3.50 (more or less). They depend almost solely on tips to make a living. Therefore, although it would be disastrous
- [3-Tier Oven Racks For Extra Baking Space](https://culinarylore.com/tools:3-tier-oven-racks-for-extra-space/) - There are many multi-level oven rack products on the market. They are metal racks with 3 levels that you are supposed to place in your oven to create more space. Some of them seem designed for baking cookies, and others claim to allow casseroles, whole birds, pies, etc. to be baked all at once in
- [Disodium Guanylate and Disodium Inosinate in Foods](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:disodium-guanylate-disodium-inosinate-in-foods/) - Disodium guanylate (GMP) and disodium inosinate (IMP) are discussed together on this page because you will often find them used together in the same food product. They are part of a family of food additives that are vary similar to monosodium glutamate (MSG), the well-known flavor enhancer. As such, they are often used together with MSG, as
- [What Is Botulism Poisoning?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:what-is-botulism-poisoning/) - Botulism is a food-borne illness caused by the Botulinum toxin produced by Clostridium botulinum, a spore-forming anaerobic bacteria. Botulism poisoning is rare but extremely serious, and it can be potentially fatal. Approximately 10 to 30 outbreaks are reported each year. This poison is extremely potent; it is widely considered the most potent biological toxin for humans. The
- [Sorbitol, Mannitol, Maltitol, Xylitol and Other Sugar Alcohols in Food](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:sorbitol-mannitol-xylitol-sugar-alcohols-food/) - If you've ever eaten sugar-free candies, especially hard candies marketed to diabetics, then you may have had sugar alcohols. They are sweeteners like sorbitol, mannitol, malitol, xylitol, lactitol, and isomalt. Besides hard candies, they are also used in sugarless gum, cookies, and jams and jellies. Sugar alcohols are also called polyols. They are alternative sweeteners like artificial or nonnutritive sweeteners, but they are not
- [7 Artificial (Nonnutritive) Sweeteners Approved for Use In U.S.](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:7-artificial-nonnutritive-sweeteners-approved/) - The following is a basic overview of artificial or non-nutritive sweeteners that are allowed for use in the United States. Not all of these sweeteners are classified as food additives, which means that they do not all have to have proof of safety. The word approved should be taken to mean "allowed," in this regard.
- [Difference Between Whole Wheat Flour, Graham, and Durum](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:difference-between-whole-wheat-graham-and-durum/) - Have You ever been confused by all the whole-grain hoopla? Lot's of people are. The different terms are quite perplexing. One confusing area is the different words used for "flour" which all basically mean the same thing. One food may list "all-purpose flour". One may just list "flour". And then, one of them throws you a curve
- [When Were the First Food Stamps Printed in the United States?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:when-were-the-first-food-stamps-printed/) - The first food stamp program (FSP), sometimes called the New Deal Food Stamp Program, began in 1939 and was carried out by the United States Department of Agriculture. It was initiated as a response to the Great Depression, after the failure of commodity distribution programs, and as a way to reduce the farm surplus. There
- [Food Storage Facilities of Labor Rehabilitation Program, 1930's](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:food-storage-facilities-of-labor-rehabilitation/) - In 1934, the United States Emergency Relief Administration began a program called the Labor Rehabilitation Program which was continued until 1946, through the Resettlement Administration from 1935 to '36, and through the Farm Security Administration, from 1937 to '46. This program was meant to help low-income farmers and farm laborers with special assistance so that
- [Ever Had Pig Brains From a Can? There is Only One Brand Left So Get Some While it Lasts](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:ever-had-pig-brains-from-a-can/) - Brains are actually somewhat nutritious. They are high in protein, at least. Some folks eat them, and some folks find the idea of eating them offensive, on many levels. Nobody is going to want to eat cow's brains, for fear of "Mad Cow Disease" and not many of us would partake of monkey brains like in Indiana
- [What Is Mock Turtle Soup?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-is-mock-turtle-soup/) - During the mid 1700's, turtle soup became very popular in England. This wasn't just any turtle soup, but soup made with green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas) from the Caribbean, which weigh up to 100 pounds. Green turtle soup was served in London taverns, but it was very expensive. There was, of course, no way to
- [What Is Epazote?](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:what-is-epazote/) - The long serrated leaves of the Mexican epazote (Dysphania ambrosioides or Chenopodium ambrosioides) herb have an unpleasant smell similar to bleach, kerosene or gasoline, although it is sometimes described as minty or citrusy. They lose most of their aroma during cooking, however. The leaves are torn up or chopped similar to cilantro and are used to flavor many dishes,
- [How Did Starbucks Coffee Get Its Name?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:how-did-starbucks-coffee-get-its-name/) - Starbuck's may remind you of Battlestar Galactica but this is not the Starbucks name origin. Discover the true story of how the coffee giant got its name as well as some of the early history of the company.
- [Real Men Don't Eat Quiche: Who Said It?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:who-said-real-men-dont-eat-quiche/) - A quiche is basically a frittata poured into a pastry shell. And a frittata is something like a big baked omelet. Quiche, then, is a savory custard in a shell with ingredients such as meats, cheese, herbs, and vegetables. Origin of the Word Quiche The word quiche is French, but the dish itself originated in
- [What is the Origin of the Word Flour?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-is-the-origin-of-the-word-flour/) - The word flour, which we use for finely ground meals of grain, especially wheat, is really the same word as flower. Or, at least, they both started as the same word. Both flour and flower are spelling variations of one word used for, you guessed it, the flower. Flour Origin English borrowed the word flour
- [What Was the First Food Eaten in Space?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-was-the-first-food-eaten-in-space/) - Did John Glenn Eat the First Food In Space? We know precisely when the first food was eaten in space by a human being. We know who ate it, and we know what he ate. The date was April 12, 1961. And, no, it was not a famous American astronaut. Some sources say that the
- [Is it OK to Store Mushrooms in the Plastic Supermarket Container?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-tips:is-it-ok-store-mushrooms-in-plastic-container/) - Mushrooms can sometimes bought in bulk at the supermarket when they are sold by the pound. However, more often, fresh mushrooms are packaged in 8-ounce plastic containers which are wrapped in plastic wrap. Is it OK to leave them in this container for storage? While the mushrooms you purchase in a plastic tub, usually common
- [What Is Taylor Pork Roll?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-is-taylor-pork-roll/) - Taylor Pork Roll is a ground pork product popular in New Jersey since the mid-1800's. Sometimes called Taylor ham, it was popular enough in New Jersey to be called "New Jersey Sausage." Developed in 1856, it was originally a cylindrical, bologna-like tube of meat packaged in cotton, but now comes pre-sliced. It is usually served
- [Where Did Nestlé Get the Name For Its Toll House Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:where-did-nestle-get-toll-house-cookies-name/) - What do chocolate cookies have to do with toll houses? Doesn't this seem an odd thing to name a cookie? Well, believe it or not, Nestlé started making chocolate chips in 1939 for the express purpose of making it easier for people to make chocolate chip cookies and these chocolate chips are called Toll House
- [How To Make Homemade Chocolate Syrup Like Hershey's Syrup](https://culinarylore.com/how-to-guides:make-homemade-chocolate-syrup-like-hersheys/) - Chocolate syrup is exceedingly easy to make at home, not to mention cost-effective. To make chocolate syrup, you don't really need chocolate, you only need cocoa and sugar. This means with a few basic ingredients and some cocoa on hand (which lasts quite a while in your cupboard), you can make chocolate syrup whenever you
- [What Is All-Purpose Flour?](https://culinarylore.com/ingredients:what-is-all-purpose-flour/) - All-purpose flour is a general use white flour. It is not a whole flour, and only the starchy endosperm is used, without the germ and bran portion of the kernel. It is a blend of hard and soft flours or hard flours with a protein content (gluten) of about 9 to 12 percent. It is
- [What is a Barback in a Restaurant or Bar?](https://culinarylore.com/dining:what-is-a-barback-in-a-restaurant-or-bar/) - A bar back (sometimes spelled bar-back or bar back) is basically an assistant to the bartender. The responsibilities of a barback may vary according to the needs of the individual business or bartender, but general duties are to keep the bar area clean, organized, and well-stocked, as well as backing up the bartender by doing whatever may
- [What is a Lagniappe?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-is-a-lagniappe/) - A lagniappe (lan-Yap) is an old Louisiana tradition, especially in the French Quarter of New Orleans. The word is known somewhat in other Gulf states, including Texas, but it started in Louisiana, where it is found as part of the name of many businesses. Grocery store owners, as well as other shop-keepers, would use the lagniappe as
- [What Is Falernum?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:what-is-falernum/) - Falernum is a sweet rum liqueur flavored with bitter almond, ginger, limes, and perhaps cloves, vanilla, or allspice. It is made in the Caribbean and is used to flavor tropical-style cocktails, or drunk alone on the rocks. It is often described as a "syrup" rather than a liqueur. This is because there are non-alcoholic simple
- [Waiter Tip: Don't Ask Your Customers "Do You Need Change?"](https://culinarylore.com/dining:waiter-tip-do-not-ask-do-you-need-change/) - "Do you need change?" can be one of the most annoying things a waiter can say to a restaurant guest. It also can potentially result in a lower tip. I want to explain the reasons for this, but first I'd like to say a few things to readers who are waiters. I really care about waiters.
- [What Does The Word Fresh Mean On Food Labels?](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:what-does-the-word-fresh-mean-on-food-labels/) - The word fresh on food labels is a tricky word because it does not necessarily imply specific nutrient or health claims. That is, a manufacturer might use the term to mean "good and healthy" by connotation, but "fresh" is a relative term since there are always steps involved in the transition from raw food product to grocery
- [What Is Stelle Or Stellette?](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:what-is-stelle-or-stellette/) - Stelle (pronohnced STAY-lay), or stellette is a type of small pasta shaped like stars with a small hole in the middle. Stelle pasta is a pastini pasta, a name used to designate any type of very small dried pasta that is typically used in soups, broths, and sometimes salads. Stelle pasta are also known as astri, or flori di sambuco (meaning elder
- [A Delicacy of Time: Exploring the Chinese Century Egg](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:what-are-hundred-year-eggs/) - Century Eggs or hundred-year eggs are a type of Chinese preserved egg with a greenish and cheese-like yolk and a transparent, gelatinous white with a brownish-yellow to amber color, but which can appear solid black on the outer surface. The Chinese actually have several ways for preserving eggs, including simple brining, but hundred year eggs are the
- [What Was the First Diet Book?](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:what-was-the-first-weight-loss-book/) - It is hard to name, for certain, the very first diet or weight loss book. For centuries, there have been many books on dietary regimens, and nutrition, and health. Some of these books would have had sections on weight loss, and others may have promised weight loss or weight-control. Keep in mind, however, that thinness
- [What is the Temperature of Lukewarm Water?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:temperature-of-lukewarm-water/) - Sometimes, recipes call for lukewarm water. They may even call for lukewarm milk or some other liquid. Most often, this instruction is used for dissolving yeast for baked products, but it may be found in other recipes as well. Just what temperature is "lukewarm?" Meaning of Lukewarm In reality, lukewarm is a very inaccurate instruction
- [When Were The Campbell Soup Kids Created?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:when-were-the-campbell-soup-kids-created/) - As long as the Campbell Soup Company has been advertising its soups nationally, it has been marketing based on appeal to children. The Campbell Soup Kids first appeared in 1905, when the company was still called the Joseph Campbell Company. The first Campbell Kids were drawn by Grace Drayton. A prodigious illustrator, she was a
- [What Are Tacos Al Pastor?](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:what-are-tacos-al-pastor/) - Tacos al Pastor are tacos made with marinated pork which is roasted on a vertical spit in front of a charcoal or gas fire. Thin shavings of the crisp, outer edges of the pork are sliced off and traditionally served with pineapple, cilantro, and diced onion. If this style of cooking the meat reminds you of certain Middle
- [Can I Freeze Butter for Longer Storage?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:can-i-freeze-butter-for-longer-storage/) - We are often told not to freeze dairy products for various reasons. But does this mean we should never freeze dairy? Is there a difference between freezing milk and freezing butter? Milk, although it can be frozen, may undergo protein coagulation (proteins will clump together), fat separation (fat will separate out of emulsion), fat auto-oxidation,
- [Was an illegal Pesticide Used on Oats Meant for Cheerios?](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:was-illegal-pesticide-used-on-general-mills-oats/) - With all the false allegations concerning pesticide use on foods and the inflated claims of toxic residues that so often fail to be confirmed by actual evidence, you might have cause to wonder about all such statements about pesticides. But, in truth, some pesticides are approved for use on crops, and some are not. However, certain
- [How Old Is the Slogan "Leggo My Eggo?" What Year Was it Introduced?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:how-old-is-leggo-my-eggo/) - Eggo waffles weren't originally called Eggos. When they first came out, in the 1950's, they had another name, playing on the words waffle and frozen. It wasn't until much later that the now familiar slogan, "Leggo my Eggo," came about, and by then the company was under new ownership. When Were Eggos Invented? It is
- [Why Does Salt Make Sweet Foods Taste Sweeter?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:why-does-salt-make-sweet-foods-taste-sweeter/) - Have you ever noticed that a bit of salt on a sweet food makes it seem sweeter to the taste? Perhaps you've used salt on apples that were a bit less sweet than you thought, and you found that the salt heightened the sweetness. Or, maybe you've had salted caramel? It's a well-known phenomenon that
- [How Can I Get a Sheet of Aluminum Foil To Lie Flat on a Baking Sheet?](https://culinarylore.com/how-to-guides:get-a-sheet-of-foil-to-lay-flat-on-baking/) - Now and then, we want to place a sheet of aluminum foil on a baking sheet, for one reason or another. Often, it is simply because we know that what we are cooking is going to have messy spillover, and we want to make clean-up easier. You may have noticed that it can be a
- [What is French Persillade?](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:what-is-persillade/) - Persillade, pronounced pear-see-yahd is a mixture of chopped parsley and garlic that is added to dishes at the end of the cooking time. It is similar to gremolata, but without the lemon zest. The word persillade comes from the French word for parsley, persil, and garlic, ail. Usually, to make persillade, and equal amount of garlic and parsley is used. This
- [What in the World Is a Locavore? And How Do You Know Your Food Is Local?](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:what-is-a-locavore-and-how-do-you-know/) - I recently read an article about craft whiskey. It was a buyer-beware type of article that complained about how a lot of small-batch whiskeys are actually ordered from large whiskey distilleries, etc. That's true. As well, there are a lot of liquor stores that are branding their own whiskey from the same type of large "factory" distilleries.
- [When Was Instant Ramen Invented and by Whom?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:when-was-instant-ramen-invented-by-whom/) - Right now, there are ramen themed restaurants popping up everywhere. Ramen is an emerging food trend. Many, such as your average college student, may be wondering how you could possibly open a restaurant based on dried noodles and flavor packets! The concept of ramen, as a food, was indeed popularized by the ubiquitous and cheap
- [14 Odd Food Fears That Are Actual Phobias](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:14-odd-food-fears-phobias/) - Congratulations. You are living during an epidemic of food fear. People today, perhaps more than ever before, are afraid of the food supply and some of this fear borders on downright paranoia. But other fears that don't necessarily stem from unknown chemicals, GMO's, etc. plague certain people. These people have food phobias. I've listed ten
- [What Is a Hot Brown Sandwich?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-is-a-hot-brown-sandwich/) - The Hot Brown Sandwich originated in Kentucky, so it is sometimes called a Kentucky Hot Brown. It is a so-called 'open-face' sandwich, which means, strictly speaking, it is not a sandwich at all. The dish was developed by Chef Fred K. Schmidt of the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky, now under new ownership. The Hotel, after opening
- [What Is A Dagwood Sandwich?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-is-a-dagwood-sandwich/) - The origin of the Dagwood Sandwich stretches back to 1930. It is not a specific sandwich. Rather, it is a tall multi-layered sandwich with varying, self-chosen ingredients. Usually, this takes the form of a layered variety of cold cuts, veggies, condiments, etc. The Dagwood is a name for a style of sandwich, then, one that is
- [Your Stomach Acid Can Dissolve a Razor Blade: True or False?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:can-stomach-acid-dissolve-razor-blades/) - Although this site is about food, I think that the subject of eating pieces of metal, and certainly the risky practice of swallowing razor blades, is fair game. There is a rumor that your stomach acid is so strong that it can dissolve a razor blade. I'd hate to be the guy to test that
- [What is the Origin of the Word Diet?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-of-the-word-diet/) - The word diet used to mean the food and drink that we habitually consume did not appear in English until the thirteenth century, but it also had another sense, meaning "a way of life." The second meaning is more in line with the word's origins, as it comes from the Greek diaita via diaitan. Diaita was a noun that meant
- [Can You Clean a Kitchen Sponge and Make it Bacteria Free?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:can-you-clean-a-kitchen-sponge/) - If you use a kitchen sponge to clean your kitchen counters or to hand-wash dishes, you probably know that sponges get very nasty very quickly. They also quickly become little germ factories so that you end up doing nothing more than spreading bacteria over your kitchen or dishes, etc. Now, the truth is that once
- [Does Baking Powder Lose Its Leavening Ability or Potency Over Time?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:does-baking-powder-lose-its-potency/) - When you open a can of baking powder, moisture from the air gets in. Moisture, usually in the form of liquid ingredients in your baking recipe, cause reactions to begin occurring between the baking soda and acid forming ingredients in the baking powder. Unfortunately, moisture from the air can cause these same reactions to occur,
- [How Do I Make Homemade French Onion Dip?](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:how-do-i-make-homemade-french-onion-dip/) - If you are a child of the '70's, or earlier, then you probably have fond memories of big bags of Ruffles potato chips and huge cartons of "French Onion Dip," that salty, tangy sour-cream sin that Foodies today probably sniff at, waiting until a midnight run to an out-of-neighborhood 7-Eleven to get their secret fix.
- [What Is Compound Butter?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-terms:what-is-compound-butter/) - Compound butter is a fancy name for butter that has been flavored with herbs, seasonings, acid, or any other flavorful and aromatic ingredient. In French it is beurre compose. To make a compound butter, the flavoring ingredients are chopped fine and then folded into room temperature butter until evenly distributed. The flavored butter may then be formed
- [What Is Chantilly Cream?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-terms:what-is-chantilly-cream/) - Chantilly Cream, or la crème Chantilly, sure sounds like some kind of elaborate dessert topping. It must take a deft hand and some precise techniques to whip up such a fancy French-inspired cream. Well, no, you just whip it up. Chantilly cream is simply whipped cream, usually heavy or double cream, that has been sweetened. Vanilla might
- [How To Make an Awesome Hurricane Cocktail From Scratch](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:how-to-make-a-hurricane-cocktail-from-scratch/) - Some History of the Hurricane Cocktail The Hurricane cocktail, today, is usually made with a bottled or powdered premixed concoction, and served in a hurricane glass at beach resorts, so named because it is supposed to look like a hurricane lamp. It is a fixture at Madi Gras. The drink is claimed to have been invented
- [Can I Use All-Purpose Flour in Place of Cake Flour?](https://culinarylore.com/substitutions:can-i-use-all-purpose-flour-in-place-of-cake/) - Cake flour is made from soft wheat varieties, is more finely milled, and has less protein than all-purpose or bread flours. Specifically, it has less gluten protein, which makes for lighter, fluffier baked products. Although successful cakes can be made from all-purpose flours and most home-baking recipes call for this, they may be a bit tougher than
- [What does Häagen-Dazs Mean?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-does-haagen-dazs-mean/) - Häagen-Dazs is a Danish word, right? Or at least a Scandinavian one. It has something to do with ice cream, or cold, or deliciousness, right? Wrong. Häagen-Dazs is a nonsense word that, although it sounds Scandinavian, at least to English speakers, it resembles no actual word in Danish, Norwegian, Swedish, or German. Häagen-Dazs ice cream
- [How Was Thousand Island Dressing Named?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:how-was-thousand-island-dressing-named/) - Thousand Island Dressing has an odd name. What in the world does this mayonnaise-based sickly-sweet drek have to do with islands - let alone a thousand of them? Well, it supposedly gets its name from the Thousand Islands region, a group of 1,864 small islands in the Saint Lawrence River, where it comes from Lake
- [Ramen Noodle History and Some Food Blogging Insight](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:ramen-noodle-history-and-food-blogging/) - When you are a writer, or a website owner, or whatever you like to call yourself, you have to be constantly reevaluating what you do and thinking of why you do it. Who is my audience? What is my ideal reader? When it comes to food, many bloggers seem to have very specific preconceived ideas
- [McDonald's Answers Questions About It's Food](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:mcdonalds-answers-questions/) - McDonald's, perhaps of all the major fast food chains, receives the most skepticism of their ingredients. There has been increasing consumer demand for more transparency in fast food and this demand has been especially focused on McDonald's. The company is now answering questions about its ingredients. Or, at least, they claim to be doing so.
- [How Can I Very Quickly Ripen (Soften) Bananas for Banana Bread?](https://culinarylore.com/how-to-guides:how-to-quickly-soften-bananas-for-banana-bread/) - The usual way to speed up the ripening of green bananas is to put them into a paper bag. This will speed up ripening a lot, and you will probably have a ripe banana by the next day or so. To speed it up even more, put a ripe banana in with the green ones,
- [Say "Bread and Butter" for Good Luck](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:say-bread-and-butter-for-good-luck/) - Since bread has been such an important food throughout history, there are a ton of myths and superstitions related to it. It is, after all, the "staff of life." Superstitions cover what it's good for, what you should do with it for good luck, what you not do with it, etc. For example, do carry
- [Spilling Salt is Bad Luck and Other Salt Superstitions](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:spilling-salt-is-bad-luck-and-more/) - As everyone knows, you need to be careful with salt, if you know what's good for you. Spilling salt is bad luck. In fact, it has been said that every grain of salt you spill is a tear you'll shed later! And, if you do spill salt, you'll want to quickly toss it over your
- [The FDA Proposes New Food Label Update: Major Changes After 20 Years](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:fda-proposes-new-food-label-update/) - The FDA, for the first time in 20 years, is proposing some updates to the food labeling regulations. These changes are meant to reflect the latest scientific information. Perhaps surprisingly, one of the changes is that calories from fat will no longer be given as a separate listing to total calories. Instead, under the new
- [Vitamin Donuts! And They Didn't Sell?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:vitamin-donuts/) - Who Wouldn't Want Donuts with Vitamins? In the 1940's the government had a Nutrition Division and this division initiated a program designed to get food companies to help educate the public on its nutrition message. This coincided with the relatively new ability to fortify products with synthesized vitamins, which Kellog's cereal had already rushed to do. In
- [Origin Of The Name Of The Adam's Apple](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-of-the-name-of-the-adams-apple/) - The Adam's Apple is a trait that even Darwin noticed. He speculated that we had inherited it from our earliest ancestors. The cartilage that enlarges and becomes a pronounced lump in the neck is the thyroid cartilage, one of nine cartilages that make up the larynx. But, what does it have to do the apple from
- [What Are Cottage Food Laws? What States Have Them?](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:what-are-cottage-food-laws/) - Cottage food laws are laws that certain states have passed concerning the production of certain types of foodstuffs for sale without a commercial license. The particulars of the laws vary from state to state, but they basically lay out when it is OK to start a food production business in your own home kitchen, or
- [Coca-Cola Advertising Slogans Throughout Its History](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:coca-cola-slogans-throughout-its-history/) - Since Coca-Cola was born in 1886, it has been using various advertising campaign slogans. Some of these may be familiar to you, depending on your generation, as various popular hit songs have been. For me, "Have a Coke and a Smile" is what I associate the most with Coke, as well as "It's the Real
- [Classic Buttermilk Pancakes](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:classic-buttermilk-pancakes/) - I call these classic because buttermilk pancakes are the classic way of making pancakes, or what you will find referred to as griddle cakes in some old diners, or by some old folks. Although you can make great pancakes without buttermilk, these are richer and fluffier. They have the sort of buttery goodness you thought
- [Do Microwaves Cook Food From The Inside Out?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:do-microwaves-cook-from-the-inside-out/) - Ever since the invention of the microwave oven, there have been a number of myths regarding how microwaves cook and how they affect the food. One such myth really stands out because it seems so incredible. It is, in fact, one of the 'features' of microwave cooking that made people want to buy one when they
- [How Did The Snickers Bar Get Its Name?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:how-did-snickers-bar-get-its-name/) - Despite what you might think, the Snickers bar was not a completely original creation. That is, it was not the first candy to combine peanuts and chocolate with a chew factor. For instance, the Goo Goo cluster was created in 1913 and Goldenburg's Peanut Chews in 1922. Still, after the Snickers bar was introduced in
- [How do I Signal for Another Drink In a Restaurant Without Calling the Waiter Over?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:how-do-i-signal-for-another-drink/) - There are experienced drinkers who seem to be privy to a secret language. They can speak to bartenders or waiters without ever muttering a word, using hand signals or other motions. It's not really all that complicated at all, however, and the language is similar to the hand signals used in auctions. In fact, it
- [What are À la Carte and Prix Fixe Menus?](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:a-la-carte-and-prix-fixe-menus/) - An à la carte restaurant menu is one in which each item is listed separately with its own individual price. A true à la carte, therefore, would have you choose every item you wanted to eat. For example, you might order a steak, a baked potato, a side vegetable, and a salad, and pay separately for
- [What is the Stinkiest Cheese Made?](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:what-is-the-stinkiest-cheese/) - One of the stinkiest cheeses is Limburger, named after Limburg in Belgium but now produced in Europe and in the US. This ripened whole-milk cheese has a very pungent odor reminiscent of dirty socks. There are many other stinky cheeses, similar to Limburger. And some, unlike Limburger, which is made under sanitary and well-controlled conditions,
- [How Did the Pomegranate Get its Name?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:how-did-the-pomegranate-get-its-name/) - The pomegranate got its name from the ancient Romans. They originally called it malum granatum. Malum is a Latin word for apple, which came from the Greek word for apple, melon. Granatum comes from the Latin word granum, meaning seed. That is also the source of the modern word grain. So, malum granatum refers to an apple with a
- [What is the Secret to the Ultimate Creamy Scrambled Eggs?](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:secret-to-ultimate-creamy-scrambled-eggs/) - Many people think that the way to make scrambled eggs more creamy is to add cream, milk, or cheese. Adding cream, for example, will help deliver more tender eggs, as long as they are cooked on a gentle enough heat. However, if you add any liquid (and cream has some water, milk a lot more), and
- [What Is Artisanal Food?](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:what-is-artisanal-food/) - Today, the most important thing to say about the word "artisan" and the related word "artisanal" is that they are completely overused and usually meaningless. The term artisanal, in regards to food, has no legal or standard definition in the United States. It also has an indistinct colloquial meaning in everyday English. Definition of Artisanal Food
- [What Is the Difference Between Baker's Yeast and Nutritional Yeast?](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:difference-between-bakers-nutritional-yeast/) - Health food Stores Often Sell 'Nutritional Yeast,' Sometimes Called Brewer's Yeast. How is This Different From Regular Baker's Yeast Grom the Grocery Store? Yeasts are microscopic fungi organisms that use alcoholic fermentation to produce energy. The type of yeast that most people are familiar with is baker's yeast, which is based on different strains of Saccharomyces
- [What Is An Alligator Pear?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:what-is-an-alligator-pear/) - Alligator Pear is another name for the avocado. The name came about perhaps as early as the late 1600's but at least as early as the 19th century. Some sources indicate that the alligator pear may have stemmed from a mispronunciation of the Spanish word for avocado in Mexico, aguacate, which derived from the Nahuatl word ahuacaquahuitl, which meant testicle. Aguacate
- [Who Invented Fruit Punch?](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:who-invented-fruit-punch/) - Despite what juice box connoisseurs may think, a punch drink was originally a mixture of water, fruit juices, spirits (as in liquor), spices, and sugar. You know, like the punch some people serve at parties in huge bowls? The fruity alcoholic drinks that taste like rubbing alcohol mixed with Kool-Aid because someone thought it would be cool
- [A Chicken in Every Pot: Did President Herbert Hoover Say This First?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:did-hoover-say-a-chicken-in-every-pot/) - Although someone definitely coined the phrase "a chicken in every pot," it was not, as frequently claimed, President Herbert Hoover. There is no record of Herbert ever having referred to "a chicken in every pot" in any of his speeches or writings, although many of us were taught that he coined this phrase as part
- [Homemade Baking Powder](https://culinarylore.com/how-to-guides:homemade-baking-powder/) - Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) needs to be activated by a sufficient amount of acid in a recipe so that carbon dioxide gas is released. These bubbles of gas are what actually causes the leavening reaction of baking soda, as the gas pushes against the batter or dough, making it expand while it bakes. The old-fashioned
- [Dressing Versus Stuffing in Your Turkey - Or Is It On the Side?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:stuffing-versus-dressing/) - You have dressing with your turkey on Thanksgiving and Christmas (why Christmas? - that's another story) and your neighbor has stuffing. You're from the South, and folks down there call it dressing pretty much all the time. Yet, you put it inside the turkey. You stuff the bird. Okay, I don't do that, I think it's nasty. But,
- [How To Make A Simple Syrup](https://culinarylore.com/how-to-guides:how-to-make-a-simple-syrup/) - A simple syrup is the simplest thing you can make, besides boiling water. In fact, it's not much different than boiling water. These simple syrups are used to sweeten cocktails, even when they are cold, as you don't have to worry with granulated sugar dissolving. But there are other tricks you can use simple syrup
- [When Was Kool-Aid Invented and Who Invented It?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:when-was-kool-aid-invented/) - Any American knows that there are only a couple of things that are as American as apple pie. One of them is baseball. The other is Kool-Aid. With the explosion of beverage products in today's market, and perhaps the anti-sugar leanings of today's more health-conscious consumer, Kool-Aid isn't as big a thing as it used
- [Why Does Brown Sugar Dry Out and Harden and What Can I Do About It?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:why-does-brown-sugar-dry-out-and-harden/) - Brown sugar is simply white sugar to which a molasses syrup has been added. The darker the sugar, the more molasses has been added. Molasses is a byproduct of the sugar refining process that is originally removed. In brown sugar, the molasses just coats the outside of the sugar crystals so it is like a moist sticky
- [Raw or Turbinado Sugar Versus White Sugar](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:raw-or-turbinado-sugar-versus-white-sugar/) - What is raw sugar? There are some products on the market now being sold as raw sugar and of course, that sounds like sugar that is not fooled with, but that is not really the case. Using the term, as far as I'm concerned, is nothing more than marketing, because, as far as food labels
- [Welsh Rabbit versus Welsh Rarebit: Which Name is Correct?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:welsh-rabbit-versus-welsh-rarebit/) - The answer to the question in the title is that the correct name is Welsh Rabbit. I know you may have been told that is is supposed to be "rarebit" and rabbit is incorrect and has nothing to do with the dish, but this bit of culinary wisdom is not so wise. Yes, Welsh Rabbit
- [Origin of the Word Banquet](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-of-word-banquet/) - Merriam-Webster defines banquet as an elaborate, sumptuous feast held for ceremonial purposes, in honor of a person, or in recognition of some occasion or achievement. We most often hear the word in regards to a state banquet or an awards banquet. Probably the biggest reason the word is used is it sounds better than big feast for rich people. Of course,
- [Can all Fruits Ripen After They Are Picked?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:do-all-fruits-ripen-after-picking/) - Most of us realize, from experience, that many fruits can be picked and purchased in a non-ripe state, and then will continue to ripen. In fact, this characteristic is important to the storage and importing of fruits from around the world, allowing them to be be picked in a "green" state and so arrive at
- [Why Do Americans Say Cookie Instead of Biscuit?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:why-do-americans-say-cookie-instead-of-biscuit/) - We Americans have the peculiar habit of calling a biscuit a cookie. At least according to British folks. Then, our biscuits are something else entirely. Where did we get the word cookie? It may seem logical to assume that the word cookie comes from the word cook, but, in fact, the two words are not related
- [What is the Origin of the Baker's Dozen?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-of-bakers-dozen/) - Although it is not as widely practiced today as it once was, you can still find bakeries or bagel shops that, as a matter of course, include 13 items (or more) when a dozen are bought. This is the baker's dozen. Why did bakers take to this practice? Are bakers just generally kindhearted types who want
- [When Was The First Use Of Chocolate?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:when-was-the-first-use-of-chocolate/) - Before knowing when chocolate was first used, it is useful to understand how it was used, as its original use had no resemblance to how we consume it today. Chocolate began as a Native American drink. The first known use of chocolate was by the Maya between 500 to 600 C.E. in the south Yucatan. European explorers
- [Why Does my Molasses say Unsulphured? Was Sulphur Removed From it?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:why-does-my-mollases-say-unsulphured/) - Why do bottles of molasses say 'unsuphered?' If there was sulfur in molasses, it would smell a bit off-putting and taste a bit off, as well. Yet, some people see the word "unsulphured" on a bottle of molasses and assume that molasses must contain natural sulphur that is removed via some process by the manufacturer.
- [Amaretto Liqueur](https://culinarylore.com/drinks:amaretto/) - Amaretto is a liqueur produced from a neutral spirit flavored with bitter almond or apricot seeds, which have a similar flavor. The liqueur has a bitter-cherry almond-like flavor, but different brands may contain various herbs and spices, which are not named. Why Is It Called Amaretto? The name Amaretto comes from the Italian word for
- [Boneless Chicken Wings Can Contain Bones, Says Ohio Supreme Court](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:boneless-chicken-wings-can-contain-wings-says-ohio-supreme-court/) - Newsflash! Boneless chicken wings are not chicken wings. They are pieces of chicken breast slathered in a sauce. It's reasonable that most consumers would know this. They would not expect "boneless chicken wings" to be actual chicken wings. It's not possible to de-bone a chicken wing and be left with a big solid chunk of
- [Chicken McNuggets Will Melt Into a Puddle If Left Out?](https://culinarylore.com/food-myths:chicken-mcnuggets-will-melt-into-a-puddle-if-left-out/) - Fast food claim: If you leave out a McDonald's Chicken McNugget at room temperature, it will eventually melt into a puddle. This food rumor, as far as I can tell, first appeared around 2013. The earliest entry, according to a simple Google search, appears on a website called Mrs Happy Homemaker. It has also been
- [Are Apple Seeds Poisonous? Should You Avoid Eating Apple Cores?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:are-apple-seeds-poisonous-should-you-avoid-eating-apple-cores/) - You may have heard that apple seeds contain cyanide. Is this true? Does this mean that apple cores and apple seeds are poisonous? Should you worry about swallowing or eating the seeds of an apple? Here is a short article to set the record straight on whether this is a myth or not. Apple Seeds
- [Kraft Macaroni and Cheese Lawsuit: Is it Just a Money Grab?](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:kraft-macaroni-and-cheese-lawsuit-is-it-just-a-money-grab/) - Raise your hand if you believe Kraft Mac and Cheese mix doesn't contain additives, artificial flavors, or preservatives. Well, Kraft Heinz is being sued in a class action lawsuit claiming that the company lied when it said that its Kraft Macaroni and Cheese product contained "No Artificial Flavors, Preservatives, or Dyes." What are the alleged
- [When Cheese Gets Moldy, Is It Okay to Cut Off the Mold and Eat the Cheese?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:is-it-okay-to-cut-mold-off-cheese/) - You may know that many aged cheeses are allowed to mold as part of the aging process. And, of course, blue cheese and Roquefort cheese have special molds that are purposely added as part of the taste and texture. However, this does not mean that the mold that grows on cheese in your refrigerator may not
- [What Does "Dead Plate" Mean In Restaurant Jargon?](https://culinarylore.com/dining:what-does-dead-plate-mean-in-restaurant-jargon/) - When a particular item cooked in a restaurant kitchen is not fit to serve it may be said to have "died." For example, a fried item like calamari is meant to be crispy on the outside and not soggy. If it waits too long after being cooked, it will become limp and soggy instead of
- [Calcium from Milk Is Not Absorbed By the Body?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:calcium-from-milk-not-absorbed-by-the-body/) - Many of us grew up with the message that milk is the champion of bone health thanks to its rich calcium content. However, today, a misconception continues to gain traction - that calcium from milk isn't absorbed by the body, while the calcium from vegetables is superior. Therefore, a vegan diet is better due to
- [When Was Kraft Macaroni & Cheese Introduced?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:when-was-kraft-macaroni-cheese-introduced/) - Kraft Macaroni and Cheese may be the most simultaneously beloved and maligned food product in history, but judging by the age of the product, 87 years, its sales tell the real story. Americans love it. Introduced in 1937, the product was originally part of a line of pasta-themed products called 'Kraft Dinner,' which also included
- [When Were Lays Potato Chips Introduced?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:when-were-lays-potato-chips-introduced/) - Lays Potato Chips, the most well-known and iconic brand of potato chips in the United States, were introduced around 1938, making them 84 years old. The story of the Lays company began in 1934 when a salesman from Nashville Tennessee named Herman Lay started a snack food operation. Lay began his career working for Sunshine
- [Does Balance of Nature Provide Daily Serving Of Fruits and Veggies?](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:does-balance-of-nature-provide-daily-serving-of-fruits-and-veggies/) - Balance of Nature "Fruits and Veggies" claim to provide a full complement of fruits and veggies. They are promoted as containing a blend of 16 whole fruits and 15 whole vegetables. If you take only 3 capsules each of the Fruits and Veggies, you will have consumed your full recommended dietary intake. At least, this
- [Do Low-Income People Eat More Fast Food?](https://culinarylore.com/food-culture:do-low-income-people-eat-more-fast-food/) - Conventional wisdom states that low-income families buy more fast food and even rely on it. With fast food, you get more calories for the dollar, making it an essential part of the survival of on a small budget. This perception is so widespread that laws have been passed limiting new fast-food establishments in poorer neighborhoods,
- [Is It Illegal To Eat Food In a Supermarket Before Paying For It?](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:is-it-illegal-to-eat-food-in-a-supermarket-before-paying-for-it/) - In the midst of a largely imaginary epidemic of grocery store shoplifting, this question has begun popping up again in social media posts. Is it illegal to eat food while shopping in a supermarket before paying for it? Some people make a habit of it and routinely open beverages to drink while shopping or snack
- [What Does Au Poivre Mean In French Cooking?](https://culinarylore.com/dishes:what-does-au-poivre-mean/) - The most famous French dish that uses the term 'au poivre' is Steak Au Poivre. It means steak with a whole lot of poivre! In this term, 'au' is a preposition that means 'with' or 'in the manner of' and poivre means black pepper. A dish that is 'au poivre' is a dish with pepper,
- [How Did Sirloin Get Its Name?](https://culinarylore.com/food-history:origin-of-the-word-sirloin/) - The origin of the word sirloin for that so very popular and tender cut of beef (sirloin can also apply to pork), is one of those cases where the fictional origin is a lot more fun and interesting than the actual one, which is quite literal and quite boring. I think the story is better than
- [Is Breyers Ice Cream Not Legally Ice Cream?](https://culinarylore.com/food-law:is-breyers-ice-cream-is-not-legally-ice-cream/) - A Facebook post about Breyers Ice Cream garnered outsized attention by claiming that the ice cream made by Breyers is not required to be labeled "frozen dairy dessert" because it's at least 50% air and therefore cannot be labeled ice cream. Is there any truth to this claim? Is Breyers not legally ice cream? The
- [Why Does Durian Fruit Smell So Awful?](https://culinarylore.com/specialty-foods:why-does-durian-fruit-smell-so-awful/) - Take some old rank cheese, mix it with some chopped onions, throw in some rotten fish, your old unwashed gym socks, and anything you can find from the bottom of a dumpster in the height of summer; add a bit of turpentine, mix it all up and let it stew for a couple of days.
- [Fantastic Claims About Chlorophyll's Actions In the Body](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:fantastic-claims-about-chlorophylls-actions-in-the-body/) - The same folks who rail against unnatural toxins in food and shout that should "never eat what you can't pronounce" will happily gobble up those same unpronounceable chemicals, as long as they are marketed by a supplement company run by their favorite food alarmist. Do you want the public to change its opinion of an
- [Should You Rinse Pasta After Cooking It?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-tips:should-you-rinse-pasta-after-cooking-it/) - Before answering the question, note that just about everything in this article pertains to dried pasta. Uncooked dried pasta, on average, contains about 65% starch. Once cooked, most of the starch is released, bringing it down to maybe 25%. Some of this starch forms a coating on the outside of the pasta. There is a
- [Why Does the First Pancake Always Turn Out So Bad?](https://culinarylore.com/cooking-tips:why-does-the-first-pancake-always-turn-out-so-bad/) - Many people consider the first pancake a sacrificial pancake. Even famous chef Jacques Pepin said "the first pancake is for the dog." Different people have different criteria for what makes the first pancake "ruined." For me, and for many folks, its that the first pancake develops an uneven and overbrowned crust when they want their
- [Are the Little Spots on Strawberries Seeds?](https://culinarylore.com/food-science:are-the-little-spots-on-strawberries-seeds/) - The first thing to know about strawberries is they are not berries in the botanical sense. Berries are fruits like blueberries, grapes, citrus fruits, and even tomatoes and cucumbers. We think of the big, red fleshy part of strawberries as the fruit and the little spots covering it as the seeds. In reality, the little

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- [high altitude](https://culinarylore.com/tag/high-altitude/)
- [pasta](https://culinarylore.com/tag/pasta/)
- [Asian Food](https://culinarylore.com/tag/asian-food/)
- [Chinese Food](https://culinarylore.com/tag/chinese-food/)
- [peanut butter](https://culinarylore.com/tag/peanut-butter/)
- [Burgers](https://culinarylore.com/tag/burgers/)
- [gum](https://culinarylore.com/tag/gum/)
- [restaurant menus](https://culinarylore.com/tag/restaurant-menus/)
- [Escoffier](https://culinarylore.com/tag/escoffier/)
- [yogurt](https://culinarylore.com/tag/yogurt/)
- [General Mills](https://culinarylore.com/tag/general-mills/)
- [chefs](https://culinarylore.com/tag/chefs/)
- [microwave cooking](https://culinarylore.com/tag/microwave-cooking/)
- [avocado](https://culinarylore.com/tag/avocado/)
- [coconut](https://culinarylore.com/tag/coconut/)
- [dining](https://culinarylore.com/tag/dining/)
- [garlic](https://culinarylore.com/tag/garlic/)
- [cooking tips](https://culinarylore.com/tag/cooking-tips/)
- [cooking myths](https://culinarylore.com/tag/cooking-myths/)
- [waiters](https://culinarylore.com/tag/waiters/)
- [storage](https://culinarylore.com/tag/storage/)
- [food labels](https://culinarylore.com/tag/food-labels/)
- [food superstitions](https://culinarylore.com/tag/food-superstitions/)
- [Jamie Oliver](https://culinarylore.com/tag/jamie-oliver/)
- [cooking fires](https://culinarylore.com/tag/cooking-fires/)
- [bourbon](https://culinarylore.com/tag/bourbon/)
- [sustainability](https://culinarylore.com/tag/sustainability/)
- [Japanese food](https://culinarylore.com/tag/japanese-food/)
- [conversions](https://culinarylore.com/tag/conversions/)
- [freezing](https://culinarylore.com/tag/freezing/)
- [pots](https://culinarylore.com/tag/pots/)
- [pans](https://culinarylore.com/tag/pans/)
- [cleaning](https://culinarylore.com/tag/cleaning/)
- [Italian food](https://culinarylore.com/tag/italian-food/)
- [pie](https://culinarylore.com/tag/pie/)
- [Cream](https://culinarylore.com/tag/cream/) - Articles about dairy cream including whipping cream.
- [Knives](https://culinarylore.com/tag/knives/) - Articles about kitchen knives, including essential knives for cooking, types of knives, individual knife reviews, parts of a knife, and anything knife-related.
- [ovens](https://culinarylore.com/tag/ovens/)
- [salad](https://culinarylore.com/tag/salad/)
- [salad dressing](https://culinarylore.com/tag/salad-dressing/)
- [lunch](https://culinarylore.com/tag/lunch/)
- [Southern Food](https://culinarylore.com/tag/southern-food/)
- [sashimi](https://culinarylore.com/tag/sashimi/)
- [lobster](https://culinarylore.com/tag/lobster/)
- [cookbooks](https://culinarylore.com/tag/cookbooks/)
- [wine](https://culinarylore.com/tag/wine/)
- [baby food](https://culinarylore.com/tag/baby-food/)
- [digestion](https://culinarylore.com/tag/digestion/)
- [ramen](https://culinarylore.com/tag/ramen/)
- [smoking](https://culinarylore.com/tag/smoking/)
- [rice](https://culinarylore.com/tag/rice/)
- [Australian food](https://culinarylore.com/tag/australian-food/)
- [aluminum foil](https://culinarylore.com/tag/aluminum-foil/)
- [frozen food](https://culinarylore.com/tag/frozen-food/)
- [pesticides](https://culinarylore.com/tag/pesticides/)
- [desserts](https://culinarylore.com/tag/desserts/)
- [Pudding](https://culinarylore.com/tag/pudding/)
- [Frying](https://culinarylore.com/tag/frying/)
- [Cajun food](https://culinarylore.com/tag/cajun-food/)
- [Food Fear](https://culinarylore.com/tag/food-fear/)
- [mayonnaise](https://culinarylore.com/tag/mayonnaise/)
- [soup](https://culinarylore.com/tag/soup/)
- [preservation](https://culinarylore.com/tag/preservation/)
- [tea](https://culinarylore.com/tag/tea/)
- [water](https://culinarylore.com/tag/water/)
- [diet](https://culinarylore.com/tag/diet/)
- [olive oil](https://culinarylore.com/tag/olive-oil/)
- [bitters](https://culinarylore.com/tag/bitters/)
- [Korean food](https://culinarylore.com/tag/korean-food/)
- [gums](https://culinarylore.com/tag/gums/)
- [utensils](https://culinarylore.com/tag/utensils/)
- [Southeast Asian food](https://culinarylore.com/tag/southeast-asian-food/)
- [Creole food](https://culinarylore.com/tag/creole-food/)
- [peanuts](https://culinarylore.com/tag/peanuts/)
- [seasonings](https://culinarylore.com/tag/seasonings/)
- [measurements](https://culinarylore.com/tag/measurements/)
- [fish](https://culinarylore.com/tag/fish/)
- [astronaut food](https://culinarylore.com/tag/astronaut-food/)
- [food coloring](https://culinarylore.com/tag/food-coloring/)
- [food inventions](https://culinarylore.com/tag/food-inventions/)
- [Nutrition](https://culinarylore.com/tag/nutrition/)
- [grapes](https://culinarylore.com/tag/grapes/)
- [bitter](https://culinarylore.com/tag/bitter/)
- [vinegar](https://culinarylore.com/tag/vinegar/)
- [food stamps](https://culinarylore.com/tag/food-stamps/)
- [food images](https://culinarylore.com/tag/food-images/)
- [wheat](https://culinarylore.com/tag/wheat/)
- [chemicals](https://culinarylore.com/tag/chemicals/)
- [food poisoning](https://culinarylore.com/tag/food-poisoning/)
- [edible insects](https://culinarylore.com/tag/edible-insects/)
- [worms](https://culinarylore.com/tag/worms/)
- [Food TV](https://culinarylore.com/tag/food-tv/)
- [trademarks](https://culinarylore.com/tag/trademarks/)
- [thermometers](https://culinarylore.com/tag/thermometers/)
- [presidents](https://culinarylore.com/tag/presidents/)
- [Southwestern food](https://culinarylore.com/tag/southwestern-food/)
- [sift](https://culinarylore.com/tag/sift/)
- [Patent Medicine](https://culinarylore.com/tag/patent-medicine/) - Articles about old-time patent medicine.
- [catfish](https://culinarylore.com/tag/catfish/)
- [cake](https://culinarylore.com/tag/cake/)
- [recycling](https://culinarylore.com/tag/recycling/)
- [spiders](https://culinarylore.com/tag/spiders/)
- [fruit](https://culinarylore.com/tag/fruit/)
- [soy sauce](https://culinarylore.com/tag/soy-sauce/)
- [Julia Child](https://culinarylore.com/tag/julia-child/)
- [Food Drug Effects](https://culinarylore.com/tag/food-drug-effects/)
- [protein](https://culinarylore.com/tag/protein/)
- [foraging](https://culinarylore.com/tag/foraging/)
- [cancer](https://culinarylore.com/tag/cancer/)
- [refrigerator](https://culinarylore.com/tag/refrigerator/)
- [baking soda](https://culinarylore.com/tag/baking-soda/)
- [botany](https://culinarylore.com/tag/botany/)
- [cakes](https://culinarylore.com/tag/cakes/)
- [strawberries](https://culinarylore.com/tag/strawberries/)
- [bowls](https://culinarylore.com/tag/bowls/)
- [plastic](https://culinarylore.com/tag/plastic/)
- [stainless steel](https://culinarylore.com/tag/stainless-steel/)
- [canning](https://culinarylore.com/tag/canning/)
- [dietary supplements](https://culinarylore.com/tag/dietary-supplements/)
- [paprika](https://culinarylore.com/tag/paprika/)
- [__amazon](https://culinarylore.com/tag/__amazon/)
- [Greek Food](https://culinarylore.com/tag/greek-food/)
- [sandwiches](https://culinarylore.com/tag/sandwiches/)
- [calories](https://culinarylore.com/tag/calories/)
- [Michelin Star](https://culinarylore.com/tag/michelin-star/)
- [nonstick pans](https://culinarylore.com/tag/nonstick-pans/)
- [American Cheese](https://culinarylore.com/tag/american-cheese/)
- [olives](https://culinarylore.com/tag/olives/)
- [What Is It?](https://culinarylore.com/tag/what-is-it/)
- [Food Name Origin](https://culinarylore.com/tag/food-name-origin/)
- [peppercorns](https://culinarylore.com/tag/peppercorns/)
- [black pepper](https://culinarylore.com/tag/black-pepper/)
- [pumpkin](https://culinarylore.com/tag/pumpkin/)
- [African Food](https://culinarylore.com/tag/african-food/)
- [Heinz](https://culinarylore.com/tag/heinz/)