Mirepoix Ratios


Hi, Can you tell me if the 2 : 1 : 1 ratio of onions to carrots to celery in a mirepoix is by weight or volume? Thank You.--Pat C Interesting question! The Culinary Institute of America gives a ratio of 8 ounces of chopped onions to 4 ounces each of chopped carrots and celery for a basic Mirepoix, so they are using a 2 : 1 : 1... Read more →


Chicken Oysters


Whenever I read instructions on how to cut up a chicken, the writer seems to invariably talk about the 'oysters'. What are they and how do I find them?--Sandy They oysters are small tender pieces of dark meat situated just forward (toward the front of the chicken) of where the thighs meet the backbone. Because they do very little work... Read more →


Baking Ammonia Substitute


I have a cookie formula that calls for baking ammonia. What are the proportions to replace the baking ammonia with baking soda or baking powder. I know that baking powder is a mixture of soda and Cream of tartar. I will appreciate your help. --Ted Baking ammonia, also known as ammonium bicarbonate, is a white powder or crystal that... Read more →


Searing Scallops


I like to sear and cook scallops in butter, but I have a hard time getting a great sear on the scallops without the butter really browning too much. The issue isn't the scallops as much as it is the sauce that I attempt to make after the scallops have seared, After the scallops sear I build my sauce by adding more butter, sautéing... Read more →


Roll of the Dice


What is the difference between a brunoise and a mirepoix?--Sylvia Both brunoise (pronounced "broon-WAHZ") and mirepoix (pronounced "meer-PWAH") are preparations of vegetables used in cooking. A mirepoix is a dice or rough chop of carrots, onions and celery used as a flavor base in cooking. The dice is usually around 1/4 inch (6 mm)... Read more →


Rancid Flour


Hi I substituted white whole wheat flour in a Challah recipe that says to use just whole wheat flour. I found that it tasted and smelled like play dough. Is there a difference in white whole wheat flour and whole wheat flour. If so what is the difference? Do you have any good idea for a whole grain healthy Challah?--Julie By... Read more →