Basics

It happens to the best of us. Time gets away from you, and suddenly you’ve got an overcooked piece of beef. Learning to cook specific cuts of meat, like steaks or brisket, can take a lot of practice. And along the way, you’re bound to overcook, but worry not!

Turkey meat is consumed all year long and not just on Thanksgiving. According to the National Turkey Federation, in 2021, the average U.S. consumption of turkey meat was 5.1 billion points. That is about 15.3 pounds per capita. 

Millions of Americans enjoy sausage created in various forms. Typically, cooked sausages become perishable, lasting about seven to 14 days when refrigerated. Smoking sausage can help extend the shelf life of sausage while filling it with flavor and texture. Continue reading to learn more about how to smoke sausage: 

A bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich (BLT) is an American classic. And if you’re looking for sides that go with a BLT, we’ve got you covered.  Most of the time, sandwiches are served with nothing but a pickle and some potato chips. However, there are lots of yummy side dishes that are perfect with a …

Beef stew is a beloved tradition in homes around the world. While beef stew is a full meal by itself, finding delicious bread that pairs with beef stew can make your dinner even more filling.

Are you looking for sides that go well with chicken kabobs? We’ve got you covered. When you’re grilling, kabobs cook up quickly, so you can get dinner on the table sooner.

Meatloaf is beloved American comfort food, but what are the best side dishes for meatloaf? Meatloaf gives that amazing combination of spicy and sweet seasonings and savory ground meat.

If you’re a fan of country fried steak (and who isn’t?), you will love this list. We’ve pulled together some of the best sides that go with country fried steak.

Hamburger steak (also called Salisbury steak) is a beloved American tradition. You may be wondering about sides that go with hamburger steak. If so, we’ve got you covered with this comprehensive list of the best hamburger steak side dishes.

Charcuterie boards are more popular than ever, and the ideas for building out your own appetizer board are endless. A beautiful charcuterie board is easy to pull together, and it will wow your guests. While elegant, a charcuterie board is also perfect for pulling together a quick appetizer for wine tastings or cocktail parties.

When you think of traditional Mexican food dishes, tamales may come to mind. The question is how to steam tamales. After all, tamales aren’t one of the easiest Mexican recipes to make.  There are plenty of super easy Mexican foods (hello, tacos, fajitas and burritos!). On the other hand, Tamales require quite a few more …

It’s happened to most of us. We are getting ready to grill a delicious shrimp dinner, but when we open our utensil drawer, we realize that we’re out of wooden skewers for grilling shrimp. Then you’re left wondering how to grill shrimp without skewers.

I used the same knife long ago to do almost everything I needed. I figured a knife is a knife, right? Then one day, a chef friend took me aside and showed me a few of her cooking tools, and I was blown away. One tool in particular that I found impressive was the slicing …

If you’ve only had creamy Brie cheese as a dip for crusty bread, you’re missing out on some delicious meals. Are you wondering how to eat Brie? The answer is every chance (and in every way) you can! While authentic Brie is found only in France, you can buy stabilized versions at most supermarkets. The …

If you’ve avoided buying a London broil because of its reputation for not being tender, you’re missing out on some exceptional flavor that comes at great value. For a tender London broil, it’s all about how you cook it and prepare it in advance. According to James Beard in his book “Beard on Food: a …

Sausage is a versatile food. It makes for a tasty breakfast, adds a kick to soups and pasta, makes a delicious pizza topping, and can even be eaten alone or on a bun. But if you have a pork allergy or are trying to live a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle, you might feel you’re missing …

Pepperoni is, without a doubt, one of the best types of cured meats created by man. Something about the combination of fatty and spicy flavors puts it a cut above other types of deli and cured meats. For the longest time, vegans and vegetarians had to go without this (along with fish, pork, chicken, sausages, …

It wasn’t that long ago vegans struggled to find good meat alternatives to chicken, fish, sausages, and beef. Most stores only carried tofu and maybe some frozen veggie patties. Those days are long gone. There is now a wide variety of meatless alternatives, including vegan ham! Vegan ham is a relatively new vegan meatless alternative. …

Are you looking for the best vegan fish brands? We’ve got you covered. From flaky fish filets to fresh cod to spicy tuna to imitation crab, there are plenty of vegan fish brands on the market to satisfy your tastebuds. Enjoy a sustainable, cruelty-free, and allergen-free seafood meal with these top vegan fish brands. Whatever …

Going vegan is good for your health and benefits the planet. Switching to a plant-based diet reduced carbon emissions while lowering cholesterol.

Whether you’ve been a vegan for years or you’re trying it out for the first time, finding flavorful vegan condiments can be difficult. Many condiments and dressings include non-vegan-friendly ingredients such as eggs, dairy, and honey. However, this doesn’t mean that your food has to be flavorless, as brands are starting to make more vegan-friendly …

Vegan bacon bits are becoming increasingly popular as companies refine their technique, making them almost indistinguishable from the real thing. Food businesses worldwide go to great lengths to satisfy the vegan population with a great-tasting product.

From delicious chocolate to excellent cookware, the Swiss are well-known for their creative and culinary process. When putting together your kitchen inventory, you should consider some of these brands for superior quality.

Smoked tofu works well in vegetarian meals as a meat alternative for chicken, fish, or beef. It has a firm texture and absorbs flavors well. Smoked tofu can be used in stir-fries, soups, salads, and wraps. Many great brands of smoked tofu are available and are all delicious.

Seafood is a staple at dinner tables around the world. It is plentiful, profitable, and nourishing. It keeps billions fed and sustains the economy of countless countries. And some people have a lot of fun catching it as well. There are a variety of flavors available in our oceans. Shellfish like shrimp and crabs, mollusks …

Are you searching for the best Portuguese sausage brands? Look no further because we have the answers for you. From smoky, slow-roasted sausages to spicy Hawaiian links, there’s a variety of Portuguese sausages to satisfy every tastebud. The brands we’ve selected are ideal for weekend cookouts, quick lunches, or traditional Portuguese dishes.

McCormick’s Old Bay seasoning is a staple in southern cooking. The distinguished flavor gives seafood an irresistible aroma and flavor. The seasoning is so popular that people are putting it on way more than seafood!

Nothing is better than a warm summer evening where you have a couple of friends over and fire up the grill for a great meal and conversation. For vegetarians and vegans, this experience is made possible by meatless burger brands. With the rise in vegetarian and vegan dieters, the need for meatless products has also …

Buffalo sauce is one of the most delicious additions you can make to spice up a dish. With its tang from the vinegar, kick from the hot peppers, and creaminess from the butter or milk, buffalo sauce has enough flavor to make you salivate.

Barbecue sauce (BBQ) is normally the best way to add some zest to any dish. This is why many forms of BBQ sauce have been widely embraced. Whether you’re into heavier BBQ sauces or you prefer tomato-based sauces, there are many delicious options to choose from.

The meat you can order at authentic Korean BBQ restaurants is decadent and rich in flavor.  But how can you replicate this delicious flavor at home? The answer is to buy your very own bottle of Korean BBQ sauce!  There are many Korean BBQ sauce brands (plus Gochujang!) to choose from, so it can be …

In the world of competitive barbecue, Kansas City stands out as the Midwestern king. Classic flavors combine with slow-cooked burnt ends, pulled pork, and smoked poultry for mouthwatering meals any time of year.  As with any BBQ, the appeal is only half due to the cuts of quality meat. The other factor in delicious taste …

Jamaican Beef Patties are a fun and convenient food traditionally sold by vendors on the streets of Jamaica. Because of its simplicity, it has since been adopted by people worldwide. Many immigrants brought their recipes to the United States and Canada, making them a staple. Beef patties are a delicious snack consisting of dough, including …

Italian chefs are famous for their cuisine. Their cooking techniques spread, and countless restaurants adopted their best practices.  However, an Italian chef and his or her kitchen are only as good as their cookware, and companies in Italy design and manufactures some of the best cookware. We’ve compiled a list of the best Italian cookware …

The number of people leaning towards a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle has risen in the past decade. Some people swear by the lifestyle, while others are more skeptical. If you go in the vegetarian direction, you must get all the protein you need from your diet. Veggie burgers are a great way to get protein …

As the popularity of Korean dishes grows worldwide, many people have found the holy grail of Korean sauces, gochujang. This spicy red paste consists of chili powder, glutinous rice, fermented soybean, and salt. The taste is spicy and sweet, so it’s a frequent addition to authentic Korean cuisine.  Read on to find out the best …

Dehydrated and seasoned strips of meat don’t necessarily sound like a mouthwatering treat. However, this hearty snack crossed over from ancient beginnings to become a reliable protein boost and a quick, tasty treat perfect for when you’re on the move. While jerky can be for anyone, those with Celiac disease or other gluten intolerances must …

There are plenty of corned beef brands in the market, and choosing the best is often daunting, especially if you don’t have experience with these products. This post will look at the best fresh corned beef brands you can choose from.  From the list of the corned beef brands we’ve provided, you will worry less …

If you have a top-of-the-line oven, the most famous cookbooks, and a kitchen that could make anyone jealous, don’t let it go to waste by using subpar cookware! There are various factors to consider when buying cookware, such as durability, functionality, and safety. Most of the time, you get what you pay for when it …

Corned beef is a delicious dish that’s easy to make and use in all recipes. We’ve compiled this list of our favorite corned beef brands for easy pot roast, so you know where to start! Many brands are available (including others that are better for hash), so it might take trial and error to find …

With the arrival of cooler weather this time of the year, people are venturing outdoors to take advantage. One of the activities that people enjoy after months of sweltering heat is cooking outdoors. Whether it’s standing around a campfire roasting marshmallows, firing up the old charcoal grill, or using a state-of-the-art grill or smoker, there’s …

Whether you are a professional chef or amateur, you may have heard someone say how great Japanese knives are. Professional chefs praise the quality, sharpness, and beauty of Japanese knives.   Unfortunately, many manufacturers claim their knives are of Japanese quality but use poor materials or mass manufacturing. 

It doesn’t matter how beautiful a piece of steak looks when it comes off the grill. If it is not well seasoned, all of that effort was for nothing! Salt and pepper are a must, as well as minced garlic and onion. Herbs like rosemary and parsley often adorn a sirloin or New York strip.

Chimichurri is a marinade and a traditional sauce used on grilled meat in Uruguayan and Argentine cuisine. Chimichurri consists of minced garlic, chopped parsley, pepper, dried oregano, paprika with olive oil, and onion. If you want an extra zing, you can add red wine vinegar. Chimichurri is typically used as the only seasoning for chorizo and …

Tired of using the same chicken recipes & seasonings over and over? Spice up your next meal with a chicken marinade. We love our favorite store bought chicken marinades because they’re perfect for a weeknight meal.  With almost no prep and very little clean-up, marinating chicken is one of the best ways to cook a …

Sometimes you crave a crispy, salty, deep-fried snack but want to try to stay on the healthier side of snacking. Pork rinds are the perfect option to satisfy this snack craving.  Pork rinds are high in protein and can be very low in carbs, as low as zero carbs in some brands (similar to beef …

There is literally no limit to the seasonings you can add to make chicken delicious. This blank slate effortlessly accepts everything from bold, aromatic spices from Asia to a simple blend of salt, pepper, and herbs.

Corn dogs make a hot summer meal because they’re easy to heat up in the oven, microwave, or air fryer. This food is convenient because it’s on a stick, making cleanup a breeze. Kids and adults love the tasty food from these top corn dog brands.

Are you looking for cheeses that pair best with roast beef? If you’re ever had a roast beef sandwich from a fast-food restaurant such as Arby’s, you know that nothing beats a roast beef and cheddar sandwich with a good condiment. However, there are lots of other cheeses that go with roast beef.

What is an oven safe skillet? And what is it used for? Those are the questions we’re going to answer in this article.  When our grandmothers were cooking for their families, most cookware was suitable for all modes of cooking: stovetop, oven, and even outdoors over a fire. In most cases, generations in the past …

You’re looking for that savory flavor that only charcoal provides, but sometimes it refuses to light. You can’t very well grill meat and veggies without fire. Let’s smoke through why charcoal doesn’t always stay lit, and you can avoid fire frustrations.

A Gyuto knife is a Western-style Japanese knife originally used for cutting beef. Gyuto translates to ‘cow sword.’  Today, gyuto knives fall into two different categories. One is wa-gyuto and the other is yo-gyuto. The only difference between the two is the handle.

Are you ready to plunge into your smoking adventure? If you just purchased an electric smoker, you have the convenience of push-button starting and temperature controls. The electric heating element turns wood shavings into fragrant wood smoke for reliably smoking delicious, nitrate-free bacon every time. Here’s how to smoke bacon in an electric smoker effectively.

The classic charcuterie board consists largely of a selection of gourmet meats and cheeses, as well as a variety of fruits and breads or crackers (and maybe sauces). Its brilliant colors and mouth-watering flavors make it a natural centerpiece for the party table.

It seems like the entire world has fallen in love with Mexican food and Tex-Mex cuisine. From tacos to burritos and fajitas to enchiladas and chimichangas, there is a Mexican food for everyone. While burritos and chimichangas look similar, are they really the same? What are the differences between burritos and chimichangas? Let’s dive in and …

There are few things more filling and satisfying than an Italian beef sandwich. However, what are some sides that pair well with Italian beef sandwiches? You can keep it simple with potato chips, but if you want something more substantial, we have many options for you. When you’re serving Italian beef sandwiches to friends and …

Before hot pockets became a thing, many people in Latin countries enjoyed a popular street food called empanadas which are typically turnover-shaped pies with various fillings.

Chinese dumplings are one of those fantastic dishes you can enjoy with just about anything (in my opinion). But, with so many possibilities, it’s understandable to feel a bit overwhelmed. Whether cooking dumplings from scratch or heating up premade frozen dumplings, there are many delicious sides to eat with Chinese dumplings. Now, I should point …

Mushroom risotto is a deliciously savory and comforting meal that has a thickness and creaminess similar to porridge. Anyone who’s had the pleasure of dining on a plate of mushroom risotto can tell you how much more flavorful it is compared to plain risotto.

Over the years, people have discovered the versatility of butternut squash as a great nutritious addition to their diet. Butternut squash offers many health benefits, rich in minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. It’s also a fiber-rich, low-calorie food that may even help you lose a couple of pounds. Regarding recipes, butternut squash is also very versatile …

Every region has its favorite sandwiches, but few are as beloved as the Philly Cheesesteak. In Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, people are pretty proud of their world-famous sandwich, much like native New Yorkers are about their pizza or Texans over their brisket.

You probably have fond memories of enjoying a sandwich made with white bread and thick slices of bologna. Or perhaps you’re just now discovering this interesting and historically significant luncheon meat with its myriad brands and variations.

Are you in search of the best beef short rib side dishes for a great meal? It seems like everywhere we look these days, we see beef short ribs. This delicious cut of beef is showing up on the menus of trendy restaurants as well as on nearly every cooking show. The good news is …

When most people think of pulled pork, the flavor of barbecue sauce may come to mind. Some people may think of other flavors inspired by different regions, such as Asia and Hawaii. Many people would be surprised by just how versatile a pulled pork dish can be. In fact, there are a lot of different …

Beef short ribs have become more popular than ever with many restaurants and cooking shows featuring them. If you’re accustomed to the leaner back ribs, you’re in for a treat with short ribs.

There’s nothing like a plate full of hot, tender, flavorful short ribs. But what are some of the best ways to cook them as part of an amazing meal with great sides? First, it’s important to understand short ribs so you can determine the best cooking methods for short ribs’ flavor & texture.

If you’re looking for ways to enhance the flavor of your ribeye, the good news is that you’ve got a lot of great options. Creating a great-tasting quality ribeye is all about how you cook it and how you season it (and what you serve with it).

Smoked sausage is a quick and easy meat product to make for a meal, offering many different variations for various sides and condiments. Several ways to cook smoked sausage, including baking, pan-frying, deep-frying, boiling, and grilling, create a juicy sausage perfect for entrees, sandwiches, or stir fry. 

Ground beef is a delicious ingredient with so many possibilities (and low cost). However, most of us never explore its culinary potential beyond a handful of meals. That’s why it can become easy to feel “burned out” on ground beef since you’re eating the same cuisine over and over. However, today that all changes! Here’s …

Sausage and peppers are always a fantastic main dish with plenty of flavors to savor. It’s a quick and easy meal that can be ready to serve in minutes, and you can really brighten up your presentation by using an assortment of red, yellow, orange, or green bell peppers. You can also add flavor to …

Finding the best buns for pulled pork sandwiches is not something most people even give much of a second thought. They usually pick up their favorite hamburger buns and call it a day. And for the most part, this strategy works just fine. However, if you’re willing to venture outside of your comfort zone a …

When it comes to cooking, the results you get from smoking pork are well worth the extra effort and time it takes. In today’s fast-paced society, not everyone has the patience to smoke meat for hours at a time. That’s probably why the taste of smoked pulled pork is so rewarding, as all of that …

The savory, saucy, decadent deliciousness of a hot and juicy pulled pork sandwich is like nothing else. But, the tender, seasoned pork in its savory rub or sauce (or spicy) or liquid is only part of the magic. Other factors such as the type of bun, toppings, sides, and even sauce (and smoke) can make …

Sirloin is one of the best cuts of beef you can buy, with a reputation for being packed with flavor. Sirloin is separated into two parts, the top sirloin and the bottom sirloin butt. And it’s from these sections we get different types of meats that can be used for making a wide variety of …

Bologna is one of America’s most popular sandwich meats and a childhood favorite for millions. It’s relatively inexpensive and can often be found in the lunchboxes of millions of children and adults each day. However, there’s a lot more to this popular lunch meat than meets the eye.

The eye of round roast is not commonly used by many; however, there are plenty of meals that eye of round roast is good for when cooked properly. This cut of meat is relatively underused and is worth trying at least once to make hearty meals. Just like tenderized eye of round steaks, eye of …

Flank steak (aka skirt or ranchera steak) is a (not always) affordable cut of beef with a long, fibrous grain that, when prepared correctly, lends itself well to a number of grilled and stir-fried, and even soup recipes. Meals that flank steak is good for include options as diverse as fajitas to London broil to …

Lunch meat goes well between two slices of bread with toppings and condiments. However, many great lunch meat meals (or dinner) can be enhanced by adding lunch meat. Here follows lunch meat meals besides sandwiches.

Most home chefs have experienced the problem of tough roast beef. Sometimes, this excellent cut of beef still ends up tough regardless of how carefully you cook it. But here’s the tough roast beef silver lining: If you have some leftover roast beef, you have a good problem. Why? Because you can use these tough …

No one is knocking a classic pot roast or traditional roast beef recipe. It is often a comfort food that makes a dreary day better. But, there are tons of ways to change it up and add flavor to roast beef with almost no extra effort (similar to ground beef). Let’s look at some ways …