Choosing the Best Ceramic Cookware: A Quick Comprehensive Guide

What differentiates ceramic cookware from its peers? Essentially, the coating on the inside is baked or bonded, and it consists of a carcinogen-free ceramic glaze that has been deemed safer to use than other older formulas. Still, just like with any other product, they aren’t a “one size fits all” type of deal.

If you read more ceramic cookware reviews, you will see that each make and model comes with its own specifications. Some are more fragile and prone to breakage or damage, while other newer ones even allow the use of metal utensils in the process. Similarly, while some pots and pans of this variety are dishwasher safe, others aren’t.

Furthermore, it’s important not to forget that this technology is relatively new. Therefore, there isn’t a universal way to clean and look after them. Each manufacturer has their own specifications in this department, which is why you need to consult the instructions that come with the cookware closely before employing them.

Safety Specifications

Nowadays, it’s no longer a secret that using classic pots and pans in the kitchen might be worse for our health than we think. In fact, past studies have shown that the perfluorooctanoic acid, or PFOA for short, used in traditional nonstick cookware is linked with the development of testicular, pancreatic and liver cancer.

Nevertheless, many of the reviews have been deemed inconclusive by the medical community. Further research needs to be conducted in order to establish a connection once and for all between PFOA and fast-growing cancers. In the meantime, it’s better to avoid any potential problems. And one of the most effective alternatives for this is ceramic cookware.

The only safety and health concerns surrounding the ceramic glazing is that it contains lead and cadmium, two highly toxic and dangerous substances. Nevertheless, these have been phased out over the years, which means that this type of cookware is now one hundred percent friendly and perfect to use in any kitchen.

What to Look For

As previously discussed, depending on the manufacturer, the specifications of a ceramic set of pots, griddles and pans for various purposes will differ. Ideally, you should go for a sturdier model that is both dishwasher and metal safe. This means that it doesn’t have to be washed manually, and you won’t have to fumble looking for a wooden spoon when you just want a quick meal.

Nevertheless, if you want the nonstick coating on the inside to stand the test of time, avoiding these comforts is recommended, even though the label on the packaging says you can. On top of that, make sure that you know exactly what the company policy on using cooking sprays and oils on their products is.

While some varieties allow for a light coating to aid in the meal preparing process, others strictly forbid it. You won’t know until you check the detailed guidelines provided. After that’s out of the way, you can focus on other important features.

If you want to have a pleasant and hassle-free cooking experience, pots and pans with silicone handles will be your best friend. This type of construction doesn’t conduct heat, which means that you can grab onto a cool surface when it’s time to take the food off the stove or out of the oven and serve it to your friends and family.

Another aspect to keep in mind would be that you have a choice between buying the pieces individually or getting a set instead. While the latter might be a lot more convenient from a financial standpoint, you will rarely if ever find a set that contains all the pieces that you want and need. This means that some things will be purchased separately as well.

And speaking of cookware sets, the number of items described includes lids and tops as well. This means that, out of a total of let’s say 12 pieces, at least will be covers. There’s no particular issue with that, but it’s something worth remembering so that you don’t expect to get more containers than you actually will.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to healthier cooking styles, ceramic pots, pans and griddles surely make a difference. The glaze used to coat their insides doesn’t contain carcinogens such as perfluorooctanoic acid, which means that no unwanted substances leach in your food during frying, baking or boiling.

And with lead and cadmium having been phased out from the composition of ceramic, this type of cookware is now safer than ever. So, why not enjoy its benefits and get yourself a few pieces, or even an entire set if you’re feeling adventurous?

Rice Bhakri Recipe: Even your Kids Can Do It

Indians have some of the unique and tasty foods in the world. Exotic with a touch of modernity and a lot of chilies!

For many years I have always wanted to prepare an Indian recipe for my family but I didn’t know where to start.

Luckily, an Indian family moved in and I thought it would be a good idea to befriend them.

Not like the friendship will be solely pegged on them helping me prepare Indian recipes but I am looking to visit India soon and who knows we might as well take the vacation together!

These flat breads originate from Goan region in India goes well with chicken curry, mutton rassa, or even veggies.

Here is a simple rice bhakri recipe which you can try at home with your kids

Prep time: 40 min

Cook time: 10 min

Total time: 50 min

Ingredients

4 cups Rice Flour
4 cups of water
Rice flour
Cooking Oil
1 Tablespoon salt

Important note: Mix the flour and water in the ratio of 1:1

Preparation Method

Boil 4 cups of water and add soil.
Mix thoroughly until the salt dissolves
Reduce the heat and add the rice flour
Mix thoroughly
Remove from the flame, cover and allow it to rest for 40 minutes
After the 40 minutes, transfer to a kneading bowl
Add oil and start kneading by making small balls
Light up your fire again place the griddle as you start flattening the balls between your palms
Using a rolling pin, continue flattening the balls and dust with a little flour to avoid them from sticking
Place the rolled bhakri on the no hot griddle
Sprinkle some water on the upper side of the bhakri
Cook the underside for 1 min and then flip using kitchen tongs.
Apply pressure on the upper side using a cloth ensuring that the bhakri puffs evenly
Remove from the griddle and place on a plate.
Your Bhakri is ready and you can eat it with the previously mentioned foods or even gravy.

Go ahead and try it at home with your kids.

About the Author:

Jane Grates – Writing from Copenhagen, Denmark, Jane is an entrepreneur, and a full-time housewife. She spends most of her time on doing kitchen stuff reviews and owns several health and home sites such as Jane Kitchen Miracles, That Sweet Gift, The Fit Bay, My Kids Needs That & Nicer Shoes.

Love Bites – The Best Dine And Date Events In Dubai

Being so busy with work, family and other life responsibilities can take its toll on relationships. This is why relationship gurus strongly advise couples to deliberately set aside time for dates.

Why?

“The most important message a date night or special occasion or catch up — whatever form it takes — conveys to the couple is that they are creating a unique and special space for one another,” says Matt Garrett of Relationships Australia.

It’s important to not take each other for granted. When you have found someone who fits perfectly with you, remind yourself that other people aren’t so lucky. Therefore, you need to nurture what you have in every way possible.

Setting aside time and sharing experiences wherein you both can be the person each other fell in love with is one effective way of taking care of the relationship.

Dates are the perfect events for that.

Dine and Date Ideas

Planning dates can feel like a burden if you’re juggling a bunch of responsibilities. Luckily, in Dubai, there are places that make going on dates a breeze because they have everything covered – there’s great food and drinks, fun or romantic activities, and other types of entertainment. All you and your significant other need to do is show up.

So, are you ready to spend quality fun time with your partner? Here are some of the best date events to take advantage of in the City of Gold.

● Prohibition Brunch

This is not your typical brunch because it’s held much later than usual – between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Here, you and your partner can sample some of the finest dishes in a chic and modern setting.

Both of you can just kick back, relax and exchange stories about the recent events in your life. If it’s been a while since you two shared a meal, this Prohibition Brunch is a splendid way to restore your commitment to making time with each other.

You’ll fall in love with the amazing selection of food while also rekindling the romance of your relationship.

● Cellar ‘n Cheddar

If you want another chilled date event, set aside a Tuesday evening for sampling an unlimited supply of cheeses and the best wines. This is a great way to learn something new together.

A nice little side advantage of coming to this regular event is that it can serve as inspiration for future stay-home dates. If you want a quick and no-fuss date with just a simple cheese platter, a bottle of good wine, and a movie, you’ll definitely learn the best-tasting cheese and wine pairings to use if you come to this event.

● Great Gatsby After Party

Head to the Dubai International Financial Center and find a shindig every Friday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Enjoy gourmet food and great music. And if you’re not feeling in any way inhibited, get on the dance floor and bust some moves to the beats of the DJ.

You’re sure to have loads of fun for a couple of hours. All the carefree dancing and laughter will surely spark joy in your relationship.

If you have more time to spare on Fridays, come much earlier for the Great Gatsby Friday Brunch. Dress up for the event, sample elegant, classic recipes, and perhaps meet new people who are like you – having a grand old time with their partners.

● Jazz Thursdays with Rita and The Rogues

Dine to the jazz tunes of Dubai’s favorite jazz act.

Treating yourself to jazz music over dinner has many health benefits. If you and your partner had a stressful day, there’s nothing like jazz music to relax and heal your body and soul.

Studies show that jazz music has the ability to lower heart and respiratory rates. It can even improve the verbal memory, focus, and moods of people who have suffered a stroke.

There are many more events in the city that can make dating easy for you and your partner; the four mentioned above are just the regular events. As the seasons change, various establishments throughout Dubai come up with their own special activities.

Keep an eye out for them because they are worth considering for dates that won’t be a hassle to plan, but will surely be a memorable experience for you and your special partner.

Dine and Date Regularly

The importance of going on dates points back to the reality that “relationships take work to work out.” Making the effort is a must. It doesn’t matter if it’s just a simple gesture or a grand one; the key is to do something, to make the gesture.

Dates are actually among the simplest efforts that partners can make to help each other truly feel that they matter. These events only take a few hours, but this special time will certainly have a huge impact on the quality of your relationship.

AUTHOR BIO

Kunal Lahori is a passionate leader, boasting a long track record of successful management across a variety of business industries in the UAE. He founded Bazxar in the DIFC, the most exciting bar in the city that looks, feels and tastes like nowhere else in Dubai. He is also notably the founder of the award-winning El Sur, a contemporary Spanish restaurant located in the Westin Dubai. In addition, he is the founder & CEO of Pret To Go, a brand of organic and healthy cafes located across the UAE in 8 business clusters in Dubai and Abu Dhabi Airport.

What to Expect From the Best Meat Slicers? We Have Them All Listed

The best meat slicers are kitchen gadgets that we definitely can't live without. They make it easy slicing meat but do so much more than that. Review Radar believes there are questions that should be answered when you decide to purchase a meat slicer. Such as, is the meat slicer worth the investment? How much space will this gadget take away from my counter space?

To decide whether the best meat slicers are worth the trouble let us consider some of the things that you should you expect when you use meat slicers.

What to Expect From the Best Meat Slicers? We Have Them All Listed

1. Saves Costs

2. Saves Time

3. Fewer Contaminants

4. Multi-functional

5. Great Texture

6. Safety and Convenience

7. Better Meals

1. Saves Costs

One of the major things you should expect when you purchase the best meat slicers is the reduction in the amount of money spent buying pre-sliced food. With the meat slicer in your kitchen arsenal, there is no way you won't end up saving up more money over the year that would have been spent on pre-sliced meats. You also don't have to purchase pre-packed steaks as well. You can get a leg of lamb and use a bone knife to bone it, chill in the freezer and then slice it into steaks.

2. Saves Time

The best meat slicers will save you a lot of time in getting your meals ready. This is true for those with smaller families as well as larger families as well. What you need to do to get your meat sliced is to assemble the slicer and put the meat in along with the ingredients. Once you turn it on, the whole process begins and you will have your own meat as soon as possible.

3. Fewer Contaminants

Meats that are placed on the counter waiting to be frozen can pick up contaminants and bacteria but when you slice your own meat, you know how fresh the meat and you are also sure it contains no contaminant nor has it started decomposing.

4. Multi-functional

With the best meat slicer, you will be able to do a whole lot of things you never thought were possible. You will be able to shave food like ham into thin slices that will give you potato crisps. If you also have compromised hand movements or a disease that might make it hard to cut through raw meat, a meat slicer will do the trick for you.

5. Great Texture

When you grind your own meat, you get to chop it off to your own liking by making it dense or substantial. This is quite different from what you would get if you bought already grounded meat which comes with a mealy texture. Depending on your taste or for the type of food that you need them for, you can decide to go for a finer grind for meals like meatloaf or twist it a little to make it lighter for meals like sausages. There is also the option of flavor. If you desire a stellar sausage or burger meal, you should go for meat slicers.

6. Safety and Convenience

There is a certain level of safety that you feel when you slice your own meat as the whole process is known to you as well as the mechanism used in making it. This is way safer than purchasing that often comes with preservatives and other artificial chemicals. It is also convenient to use and will take few minutes of your time.

7. Better Meals

The truth is fresh grounded meat is better. Unless you have the time and resources to visit the butchers directly, you will never get freshly grounded meat at the stores. The meat lying idle there pose a health risk as it would have lost some quality over time as well as have its flavor diminished over time from exposure to the elements.

Another interesting thing to expect with the best meat slicers is that you have total control over the meal and you know what was used in the sliced meat that would be consumed by your family.

With all these benefits, it's hard not to purchase a meat slicer for use in your home. The best meat slicers sure make a difference in the meals that you make. Do you have a meat slicer at home? Let us know what the experience has been in the comment section.

Author Bio:
Emmanuel is a health and fitness enthusiast who is tired of seeing people complain about gaining weight and thinking they have no way to deal with it. As a result he now serves as a small time activist and blogs about health and fitness topics to empower people to change their lives.

1. Saves Costs

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2. Saves Time

3. Fewer Contaminants

4. Multi-functional

5. Great Texture

6. Safety and Convenience

7. Better Meals

Does Hard Water Affect Home Cooking?

Hard water impacts your cooking – it's a fact. And the hard water problem is vast. England's water is considered very hard, with some areas having 200 ppm. Statistics from the United States show that 85% of homes have hard water. And hard water will change the way that your food tastes.

Delicious food requires attention, the right mix of ingredients and the right water. Your food is impacted by the minerals that lead to hard water, including magnesium and calcium. The type of food you cook will be the main variable in how drastically hard water impacts your food.

10 Must Have Kitchen Tools for The Master Baker

You don’t need to be a master baker to take advantage of these kitchen tools, in fact, they’re a necessity for bakers of every level. Some things are just essential to life.

1. Oven Thermometer
You might be wondering why you need this when your oven does it for you, but unless you have a brand-new oven, then there’s a good chance it’s completely inaccurate. As every baker knows, the temperature is a big deal. So, save yourself a whole lot of time and trouble and pick up an oven thermometer.

2. Hand Mixer
Stand mixers are all well and good, but sometimes you need a good old fashion hand mixer to get down to business. It’s the ideal tool for someone just starting out or who just bakes for the fun of it. It’s an affordable tool that will serve you well, whether you’re making the ultimate scones or whipping up meringue.

3. Scales
If you cook and bake then you’ll know how free with measurements you can be in cooking. It isn’t the same situation when it comes to baking – recipes are everything. The most precise way to measure your ingredients is by using a scale. It will make your baking a breeze.

4. Silicone Mats
Forget running out of parchment paper; silicone mats are everything you didn’t know you needed. Expect evenly baked cookies and never struggle to scrape your treats off the tray again. Even better if you choose a dishwasher friendly mat, toss it in with everything else and move on. You’ll find yourself using them for things other than baking, too.

5. Hand Sifter
Have you ever spotted the need to sift your dry ingredients on a recipe and shrugged it off like it’s an unnecessary hassle? There is a legitimate need to sift dry ingredients; it aerates them to prevent lumps and bumps. It’s an inexpensive but critical kitchen tool for anyone who loves to bake.

6. Rimmed Baking Trays
They’re the ideal option for sheet cakes, bread, cookies, and even roasting vegetables. They’re particularly handy when you’re dealing with mixes that are fairly liquid as the rim ensures no leakage in your oven (and it won’t waste your mix).

7. Pastry Blender
You might think you don’t need a pastry blender, but it’s incredibly handy for a variety of tasks including biscuits, pie dough, and scones. It’s great when you need to break cold butter up to create a sumptuous flaky dough. The biggest issue most tools have is they tend to warm your butter, but it’s vital to keep it cold when you’re making pastry!

8. Cooling Racks
Sure, you can struggle by without one – if you want soggy baked goods. Cooling racks are vital because it ensures your treats cool evenly, as opposed to allowing the bottom to continue baking in a hot oven pan. You only need a few to make sure your baked goods get the best possible treatment before you enjoy them with a cuppa.

9. The Accoutrement
There are certain things that no baker can do without, and that includes a rolling pin, mixing bowls, whisks, spatulas, measuring spoons, and measuring cups. Thus, the accouterment. You can pick up a rolling pin at little cost, and it’s an absolute must if you are into cookie and scone making. You might try to get around it and use other tools to do the job, but it’s time to give in and invest in a decent rolling pin. Whether you prefer plastic, metal, or glass – mixing bowls are indispensable. Stop trying to use salad bowls to do the job when you can buy the real deal.

Of course, whisks and spatulas are a vital part of the baking process. You should have a variety of sizes and styles as you’ll need them for mixing, stirring, spreading frosting, and scraping bowls. If you’ve ever been baking and found yourself frustrated with your tools there’s a good chance it’s been about a spatula or whisk. It’s something so small, but so important. Go for quality; there’s nothing worse than a snapped tool mid-whisk.

Yes, we suggested that you go for kitchen scales, but you still need measuring spoons and measuring cups for certain ingredients. Make sure you have a variety of sizes, and your best bet is to opt for a set of each to cover the variety of sizes. You never know when you’ll need to measure an eighth of a cup for some obscure new recipe you found online. It’s a good idea to cover every eventuality, as there is nothing worse than being mid-recipe and realizing your kitchen tools are seriously lacking.

10. Cookie Scoops
Yes, you can finally create cookies that are perfectly shaped, but you can do more than that with them! Get them in various sizes and use them for muffins, pancakes, cupcakes, and even ice cream and mashed potatoes. There are small ones which are ideal for small cookies and truffles.

You can find the above-mentioned kitchen tools online and utilize incredible discount vouchers from Laura Ashley kitchen accessories to cut down your cost. So make sure you update your kitchen with all the necessary equipment for a perfect baking experience.

What To Look For In The Best Pancake Griddle And #2 Is Extremely Durable!

Do you know someone who doesn’t enjoy pancakes? There may be a few people out there who don’t enjoy pancakes in the morning. I don’t know about them, but I know something about you! You like pancakes as I do! I’m right, right? You wouldn’t be here if you don’t love them!

Aside from your great pancake recipe Nana left you with; the best pancake griddle can help you have the most delicious pancakes in the entire planet! I know you're tired of your regular pan and you want to make pancakes more special, that’s why you are on the look for the best equipment for it!

There, there. Let me help you choose your pancake griddle! I know you don’t want to waste time trying to find out which one is best for you. So, let me help you narrow down your selection! Let’s see what you want your pancake griddle needs to have.

Which Is The Best Butcher Knife For You?

Working in the kitchen with a dull edge is frustrating. Anyone who has spent some time in the kitchen knows about it. And most of us (if not all!), learned that a sharp knife is safer to use! Well, it’s true that a sharp knife can potentially cut you deeper (in the case of an accident), but a dull edge is harder to use and pose more risk if it slips your hand!

I know you know, by now that the sharpest and best butcher knife is a great kitchen tool you could rely on. A tool that you can trust your hands with! But, you know what? Before we had the modern butcher knife, you won’t believe what those knives look like!

They were a famous equipment of hunters and mountain men and had many different purposes. Butcher knives can be used for chopping onions, to skinning a game animal, and even defending yourself from assailants!

But today, the knife has substantially been reduced in size because it’s no longer intended as a weapon! But before you buy yourself a butcher knife, here are something you might want to consider.

The Best Blender For Protein Shake You Need Follow And Number 4th Is Astounding

Lumpy shake. Just the thought of it makes you cringe! I feel you! I don’t know about the others, but I like my shake thoroughly mixed. Personally, I don’t just consume it just to get over with it. As much as possible, I want to enjoy what I eat. It’s a small pleasure I am willing to work for!

You know what, these protein shake manufacturers even put money for research to make their shakes easier to dissolve in water! Mixing it with a spoon is an okay way. But you get lumps, and some of the powders just stick to the bottom. A shaker does a better job. Some even throw an agitator ball inside the shaker to make dissolving it easier.

But I guess we would all agree the best blender for protein shakes does the perfect job. No sticky lumps and everything is mixed thoroughly. If you like it creamy and foamy, a blender can do that for you! .

With a little warm milk and cream pouring in a blender, and blend on a medium speed , you can make a creamy topping foam for your morning cappuccino without using milk frother. Now, this is what I know about you. You want to buy a blender, but you can’t decide which one!

Which Among This Is The Best Wheeled Cooler? You Will Be Torn With Number 2!

The best wheeled cooler out there is something that is light, portable, easy to carry, has sturdy wheels, durable, doubles as a table and has some beer can holders! Is it too much to ask for all of that? Is it just a dream to have the most convenient wheeled cooler out there?

Here, we will look at the five best coolers you may want to have! Picnics won’t be the same if you have a big cooler that you can easily push around! That will surely save you some back strain and probably injuries in the future!

But first, let’s look at the things you want for your wheeled cooler. I know you want the best stuff for your money. Let’s see which fits your criteria and your budget!

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