Tips & Tricks

Intro to Simple Hydroponic Gardening

by

The Kratky method is a passive hydroponic technique for growing plants suspended above a reservoir of nutrient-rich water. It is a simple and low-maintenance method that can be used to grow a variety of plants, including leafy greens, herbs, and tomatoes.

The Kratky method works by allowing the roots of the plants to absorb water and nutrients from the reservoir. The roots are able to get oxygen from the air above the water. As the plants grow, the water level in the reservoir will drop, which will expose more of the roots to the air.

The Kratky method is a very simple and easy way to grow plants hydroponically. It does not require any pumps or other equipment, which makes it a very low-maintenance method. The Kratky method is also a very efficient way to grow plants, as the plants are able to use all of the nutrients in the water.

To get started with the Kratky method, you will need the following supplies:

  • A container for the reservoir
  • A net pot
  • Growing medium
  • Nutrient solution
  • Seedlings or cuttings of plants

The container for the reservoir can be anything that will hold water, such as a bucket, a jar, or a plastic container. The net pot should be made of a material that will allow the roots to breathe, such as plastic or ceramic. The growing medium can be anything that will hold the roots of the plants in place, such as hydroton, rockwool, or perlite. The nutrient solution can be purchased from a hydroponics store or made at home.

Once you have gathered your supplies, you can begin setting up your Kratky system. Fill the container with nutrient solution, leaving about 2 inches of space at the top. Place the net pot in the container and fill it with growing medium. Plant the seedlings or cuttings in the growing medium.

Place the Kratky system in a location that receives plenty of sunlight. The plants will need to be watered regularly, but you do not need to add any more nutrient solution. As the plants grow, the water level in the reservoir will drop. When the water level reaches the bottom of the net pot, it is time to harvest the plants.

The Kratky method is a simple and easy way to grow plants hydroponically. It is a low-maintenance method that is very efficient. The Kratky method is a great way to grow plants indoors or outdoors.

Here are some additional tips for using the Kratky method:

  • Use a nutrient solution that is designed for hydroponics.
  • Start with a small amount of nutrient solution and add more as needed.
  • Monitor the water level in the reservoir and add more water as needed.
  • Harvest the plants when they are ready.

The Kratky method is a great way to grow plants hydroponically. It is a simple, low-maintenance, and efficient method that can be used to grow a variety of plants.

I have been using Masterblend for the past couple of years and it works great for me.

Blackstone tips and tricks

by

Blackstone Griddle Tips and Tricks

Blackstone griddles are a versatile and popular cooking appliance. They can be used to cook a variety of foods, from pancakes and bacon to burgers and steaks. If you are new to using a Blackstone griddle, here are a few tips and tricks to help you get the most out of it:

1. Season your griddle properly.

Before you use your Blackstone griddle for the first time, it is important to season it properly. This will help to create a non-stick surface and prevent food from sticking. To season your griddle, simply heat it up over medium heat and add a thin layer of oil. Cook the oil for a few minutes, then let the griddle cool completely.

2. Preheat your griddle.

It is important to preheat your Blackstone griddle before cooking. This will help to ensure that your food cooks evenly. To preheat your griddle, simply heat it up over medium heat for a few minutes.

3. Use the right heat setting.

The heat setting you use will depend on the food you are cooking. For example, you will need to use a higher heat setting for searing meats and vegetables, and a lower heat setting for cooking delicate foods, such as fish and eggs.

4. Use a good quality cooking oil.

A good quality cooking oil will help to prevent your food from sticking to the griddle. Some good options include vegetable oil, canola oil, and peanut oil.

5. Clean your griddle after each use.

It is important to clean your Blackstone griddle after each use. This will help to prevent food from sticking and to extend the life of your griddle. To clean your griddle, simply wipe it down with a damp cloth. If there is any food stuck to the griddle, you can use a spatula to scrape it off.

6. Store your griddle properly.

When you are not using your Blackstone griddle, it is important to store it properly. This will help to prevent it from rusting. To store your griddle, simply wipe it down with a damp cloth and store it in a cool, dry place.

With these tips and tricks, you will be able to use your Blackstone griddle to cook delicious food for years to come.

Here are some additional tips and tricks for using a Blackstone griddle:

  • Use a griddle spatula to flip food. A regular spatula can damage the seasoning on your griddle.
  • Don’t overcrowd the griddle. If you put too much food on the griddle at once, it will lower the temperature and food will stick.
  • Use a lid to trap heat and cook food evenly.
  • Be patient. It takes some time to get used to cooking on a Blackstone griddle. Don’t get discouraged if your first few attempts don’t turn out perfect.

With a little practice, you’ll be a Blackstone griddle pro in no time and if you don’t own a Blackstone, get one on Amazon…

Preparing your Blackstone for cooking

by

How to Season a Blackstone Griddle

Seasoning a Blackstone griddle is an important step in ensuring that it will cook food evenly and prevent food from sticking. The seasoning process creates a thin layer of polymerized oil on the surface of the griddle, which acts as a non-stick coating.

To season a Blackstone griddle, you will need:

  • A Blackstone griddle
  • A high-heat cooking oil, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or peanut oil
  • A paper towel
  • A clean rag

Instructions:

  1. Clean the griddle thoroughly with hot water and soap.
  2. Dry the griddle completely with a paper towel.
  3. Pour a thin layer of oil onto the griddle.
  4. Use the paper towel to spread the oil evenly over the surface of the griddle.
  5. Heat the griddle over high heat for 10-15 minutes.
  6. Turn off the heat and let the griddle cool completely.

Your Blackstone griddle is now seasoned and ready to use!

Here are some additional tips for seasoning a Blackstone griddle:

  • Use a high-heat cooking oil. This will help to create a more durable seasoning layer.
  • Apply a thin layer of oil. A thick layer of oil will not polymerize properly and can lead to food sticking.
  • Heat the griddle over high heat. This will help to polymerize the oil and create a more durable seasoning layer.
  • Let the griddle cool completely before using it. This will help to ensure that the seasoning layer is fully cured.

With a little care and attention, your Blackstone griddle will provide you with years of delicious meals.

Long Term Food Storage

by

Long-term food storage is a useful technique for preserving food for extended periods of time. There are many different methods of long-term food storage, including canning, freezing, and dehydrating. Here are a few key considerations for long-term food storage:

Choose the right method: There are several different methods of long-term food storage, and the best method for you will depend on the type of food you’re storing and the conditions in which it will be stored. For example, freezing is a good option for most types of food, while canning is best for high-acid foods such as fruits and tomatoes.

Use appropriate containers: It’s important to use the right containers for long-term food storage to ensure that the food stays fresh and safe to eat. For example, canned foods should be stored in metal cans or glass jars with airtight lids, while frozen foods should be stored in airtight containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.

Label and date your food: Proper labeling and dating is important for keeping track of when food was stored and how long it has been stored. This can help you use up food before it goes bad and reduce waste.

Store food in a cool, dry place: Long-term food storage works best when the food is stored in a cool, dry place. This helps prevent the growth of bacteria and other contaminants that can spoil the food.

Rotate your food: It’s important to rotate your stored food regularly to ensure that it stays fresh and safe to eat. This means using up the oldest food first and replacing it with fresh supplies.

Overall, long-term food storage can be a useful technique for preserving food for extended periods of time. By choosing the right method, using appropriate containers, labeling and dating your food, and storing it in a cool, dry place, you can help ensure that your stored food stays fresh and safe to eat.

It is always a good idea to have some stored food on hand in the event of natural disasters, Three days worth of food and water is suggested. Long term food storage is also a good method of hedging inflation, storing food when it is affordable and using it up when foods are expensive, think about it as a food savings account.

I’m adding a Link to some Amazon long term food storage ideas.

I have several long term food storage solutions in place, I use Mylar bags to store dry foods (Rice, Beans, Sugar and such) along with oxygen absorbers and this ensures that we are good for three days in the event of an issue. Food safe 5 gallon buckets are also available at Loews and I use them to store foods that we use cycle through on a regular basis.

Remove Burn Marks from Stainless Steel

by

Burn marks on stainless steel can be difficult to remove, but there are a few methods you can try to help get rid of them. Here are a few tips for removing burn marks from stainless steel:

Use a soft scrub pad or steel wool: Gently scrub the burn marks with a soft scrub pad or steel wool, using circular motions to loosen the burnt-on debris. Be sure to work with the grain of the stainless steel to avoid scratching the surface.

Use a baking soda and water paste: Mix a small amount of baking soda with water to create a paste, and then apply the paste to the burn marks. Let the paste sit for a few minutes, and then gently scrub the area with a soft scrub pad or steel wool. Rinse the paste off with water and dry the stainless steel thoroughly.

Use a stainless steel cleaner: If the burn marks are particularly stubborn, you may want to try using a specialty stainless steel cleaner. These cleaners are designed specifically for use on stainless steel and can help to remove tough stains and marks. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and be sure to wear protective gloves and work in a well-ventilated area.

By following these tips and being patient, you should be able to remove burn marks from your stainless steel and restore its shine and luster. Just remember to use caution when handling any cleaning products and to take your time to avoid scratching or damaging the surface of the stainless steel.

Keep your Kitchen Knives Sharp

by

Sharp knives are an essential tool in the kitchen and can make a big difference in the ease and efficiency of your cooking. Here are a few methods for sharpening your kitchen knives:

Use a sharpening stone: A sharpening stone, also known as a whetstone, is a flat stone that is used to sharpen and hone the edge of a blade. To use a sharpening stone, you’ll need to wet the stone with water or oil and then gently glide the blade across the surface in a back-and-forth motion. You’ll need to apply moderate pressure and make sure to sharpen both sides of the blade evenly.

Use a sharpening steel: A sharpening steel, also known as a honing steel, is a rod-shaped tool that is used to realign the edge of a blade. To use a sharpening steel, you’ll need to hold the steel vertically and then draw the blade down the length of the steel in a back-and-forth motion. You’ll need to apply moderate pressure and make sure to sharpen both sides of the blade evenly.

Use a knife sharpener: A knife sharpener is a tool that is specifically designed to sharpen and hone the edge of a blade. Most knife sharpeners have a set of sharpening blades or stones that are used to grind and sharpen the blade. To use a knife sharpener, you’ll need to place the blade in the appropriate slot and then draw it through the sharpener in a back-and-forth motion.

Take it to a professional: If you’re not comfortable sharpening your knives yourself, you can always take them to a professional knife sharpener. Many kitchen supply stores and hardware stores offer knife sharpening services, or you can find a local knife sharpener in your area.

Regardless of which method you choose, it’s important to be patient and take your time when sharpening your knives. With a little bit of practice and care, you’ll be able to keep your knives sharp and in excellent condition.

There are a few precautions to keep in mind when sharpening your kitchen knives:

Use caution: Sharpening a knife can be dangerous if you’re not careful. Always use caution when handling sharp objects and be sure to keep your fingers away from the blade.

Wear protective gear: If you’re using a sharpening stone or a sharpening steel, it’s a good idea to wear gloves to protect your hands from accidental cuts.

Use the correct technique: Different sharpening methods require different techniques, so be sure to familiarize yourself with the correct method before you begin.

Take your time: Don’t try to rush the sharpening process. Take your time and be sure to sharpen both sides of the blade evenly.

Use the correct angle: When sharpening a knife, it’s important to maintain the correct angle between the blade and the sharpening stone or steel. This will help to ensure that you get a clean, even edge on the blade.

By following these precautions, you can safely and effectively sharpen your kitchen knives and keep them in excellent condition.

The correct angle for sharpening a kitchen knife will depend on the type of blade you have and the sharpening method you are using. Here are a few tips for determining the correct angle when sharpening your kitchen knives:

Consider the blade type: Different blade types require different sharpening angles. For example, a Western-style chef’s knife with a pointed tip may require a more acute angle, while a Japanese-style Santoku knife with a straighter edge may require a more obtuse angle.

Use a sharpening guide: If you’re using a sharpening stone or a knife sharpener, you may want to consider using a sharpening guide to help you maintain the correct angle. Sharpening guides are available in a range of sizes and styles, and they can help you to get a consistent angle every time you sharpen your knife.

Experiment and practice: If you’re not using a sharpening guide, you may need to experiment and practice to find the right angle for your knife. Start with a moderate angle and adjust as needed until you get the edge you desire.

By following these tips and being patient, you should be able to determine the correct angle for sharpening your kitchen knives. Just remember to always use caution when handling sharp objects and to take your time to ensure that you get a clean, even edge on the blade.

A wet stone, also known as a sharpening stone or a whetstone, is a flat stone that is used to sharpen and hone the edge of a blade. Wet stones are typically made from abrasive materials, such as silicon carbide or aluminum oxide, and are used with water or oil to lubricate the sharpening process.

I have been using this Sharpening Kit to keep my knives sharp – Knife Sharpening Kit

There are several different types of wet stones, including:

Oil stones: Oil stones are made from a fine-grained abrasive material, such as aluminum oxide or Novaculite, and are used with oil to lubricate the sharpening process. Oil stones are known for their ability to produce a very fine, sharp edge and are often used for precision sharpening.

Water stones: Water stones are made from a softer abrasive material, such as silicon carbide, and are used with water to lubricate the sharpening process. Water stones are known for their ability to sharpen quickly and are often used for everyday sharpening tasks.

Diamond stones: Diamond stones are made from a synthetic diamond abrasive and are known for their ability to sharpen extremely hard materials, such as ceramic or hardened steel. Diamond stones are often more expensive than other types of wet stones and are best used for occasional sharpening tasks.

Combination stones: Combination stones, as the name suggests, are a combination of two or more different types of wet stones in one. They are often dual-sided, with one side made from a finer abrasive material and the other side made from a coarser abrasive material. Combination stones are a versatile choice for sharpening a range of blade types and can be used for both precision and everyday sharpening tasks.

The type of whetstone you use can make a difference in the sharpness and durability of the edge you are able to achieve on your blade. Here are a few factors to consider when choosing a whetstone:

Abrasive material: Different types of abrasive materials are better suited for different tasks. For example, softer abrasive materials, such as silicon carbide, are better for everyday sharpening tasks and can sharpen blades quickly. Harder abrasive materials, such as aluminum oxide or Novaculite, are better for precision sharpening tasks and can produce a very fine, sharp edge.

Grit size: The grit size of a whetstone refers to the size of the abrasive particles on the stone. Finer grit sizes, such as 1000 or higher, are best for precision sharpening tasks and can produce a very fine edge. Coarser grit sizes, such as 500 or lower, are best for everyday sharpening tasks and can sharpen blades more quickly.

Lubrication: Some whetstones, such as oil stones, require the use of oil to lubricate the sharpening process. Others, such as water stones, require the use of water. Be sure to choose a whetstone that is compatible with the type of lubrication you prefer to use.

By considering these factors, you should be able to choose a whetstone that is well-suited to your sharpening needs. Just remember to take your time and be patient when sharpening your blades, as it can take some practice to get the hang of it.