Food: Q&A

Oct 5 2008 Michael Kilkie Of The Jefferson Restaurant

Q Where is the best place to store chocolate? I use it a lot in cooking and baking.

A Chocolate is best stored at a consistent temperature but don't put it in the fridge which is too cool. Average room temperature is OK, away from direct light.

Q Is there a difference between white and brown crab meat?

A They come from different parts of the crab. The brown meat is much stronger in taste - too strong for a lot of people, which is probably why white meat is more popular.

Q I'm going to a wedding and there are figs on the menu but I'm not sure if you can eat the skin or do you peel them first?

A The skins of figs are completely edible and, as long as they are not bruised or bashed, they are delicious.

Q Is it necessary to rinse rice before cooking? I was always told to do this.

A Rinsing is used to wash off excess starch but don't rinse risotto rice as it relies on the starch for thickening.

Q What's the difference between cottage pie and shepherd's pie? I know one is made with lamb and the other with beef but I never know which is which.

A Cottage pie is made with minced beef while shepherd's pie is made with minced lamb.

Just think of shepherds looking after lambs and you'll never forget again.