Question: What is the best way to conserve garlic bulbs and prevent them from sprouting?
— Raymond
Answer: It all begins at the store. Choose the freshest garlic, free from bruises and sprouts. Avoid storing garlic bulbs in a regular residential fridge because the fridge temperature will stimulate sprouting. Freezing garlic is an option for garlic storage; however, this changes the flavour and consistency of the garlic. Store garlic in a cool, dark and dry area in a mesh or wire basket or a pair of pantyhose. Make sure the garlic is ventilated properly. Unbroken garlic lasts about eight weeks, but broken garlic lasts four to 10 days. Storing garlic in oil is quite controversial, as some say this promotes bacteria.
Question: I overcooked rice in the microwave and the microwave filled with smoke. I cleaned it out with bleach, but there is still a strong smoke smell when I use the microwave. What can I do to get rid of this smell? Thanks,
— Karen
Answer: You can either: heat lemon juice or vinegar in the microwave until it boils over and then wipe out the interior. Or, combine into a bowl vanilla and water and heat until it boils over. Another option is to combine lemon slices, vinegar, vanilla, dish soap and water in a bowl and heat. Alternatively, combine and heat baking soda and water. If the odour persists, store coffee grounds in a bowl in the microwave to absorb lingering smells.
Question: I have been going through my dinner napkins only to find lots of food stains that don’t seem to come out with regular laundry products. Is there an old-time method that can help? I seem to remember something about boiling them. It hasn’t been warm enough to hang them out on the line for days and the sun seems to be hiding! Can you help me to keep using these reusable napkins or is it time to replace them? Thanks,
— Vivian
Answer: Here is a spot remover that you can use to pre-treat the napkin stains as well as several other fabrics. Into a spray bottle, combine 2/3 cups ammonia, 2/3 cups Dawn dish soap, ¼ cup baking soda and two cups warm water. Spray napkins and wash with heavy-duty detergent. Or, boil napkins in 10 cups water and one cup washing soda. Boil for five minutes and air dry or hang outside (test on inconspicuous area first).
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