Fine cooking, how to dress well???

Ask away :smokin:

-spence

Spence ,i'm looking for a simple tomato/light spice topping for broiled fish, nothing fancy.

What would you suggest. :huh:

First,
Put on a cardigan.
Then go buy the most expensive, imported tomatoes at TJ Maxx.
cook said tomatoes
Pour over fish that was fresh, never frozen.
Enjoy with some fava beans and a nice chianti! :D

Hi Jeffy :D

I'd suggest you don't use it as a topping and instead use the tomato juice to braise the fish.

If the fish is a fillet, cut it into two inch pieces, if it's not a fillet use your best judgement...

Stand two of these up on end on a pice of foil, top with some sliced tomato, extra virgin olive oil, kosher salt and fresh ground pepper. Top with another pice of foil and seal the edges. Bake on a cookie sheet at 350 or so for like 15 min. You'll have to try it first to see how long things really take.

But as long as you have good fish, a decent tomato (use a firm Roma if off season) and nice spice it will taste excellent. This is a very easy and good way to cook fish, especially salmon.

As always, it's about what you're putting into the dish. Good stuff in = good stuff out.

thanks for asking :)

-spence

First,
Put on a cardigan.
Then go buy the most expensive, imported tomatoes at TJ Maxx.
cook said tomatoes
Pour over fish that was fresh, never frozen.
Enjoy with some fava beans and a nice chianti! :D

Hi Jeffy :D
They don't sell tomatoes at TJX.

-spence

They don't sell tomatoes at TJX.

-spence

Not even in home goods? :happy:

They do have some processed goods....

-spence

They do have some processed goods....

-spence

Well I shop at the fine, gourmet French store; 'État océanique Job lot'

actually; they do get some nice quality Asian and European goods!

spence....
I have always been fond of penny loafers and wore them as a young boy. I want to get a new pair, but some of my fishing friends already think I have a little sugar in my tank... so to speak. Do you think a hetro-outdoors type could get away with a classic shoe like that?
thanks....

A little sugar? Try more than a few tablespoons!:hihi:

Spence, any personal recommendations for a little spicy Cajun style fillet or fish chowda?

Spence, any personal recommendations for a little spicy Cajun style fillet ?


!st you gotta get yourself a real Cast iron Skillet.....the only way to blacken.....

Spence, thanks, sounds easy enough i'll give it a try. :btu:

Slingah, i would go with a pair of white bucs. :hihi: ;)

Dear Spence,

I have 2 questions for you and I have a pint of Wild Turkey riding on the second one.

First, is a trucker hat with the phrase "Git er done" appropriate for a Christening? My argument is that it's fine as long as I am wearing my good jeans (without any holes) and my Sunday flannel shirt. Also, I'll take the hat off during the National Anthem.

Second, are pork rinds and Andy Capp Pub Fries considered appetizers? I say yes, and my clueless wife say's they aren't and refuses to serve them at a dinner party. She says that she doesn't want to be embarrassed in front of her boss. I just think she thinks that something called croupdee tays is more fancier.

Thanks,
Fishbones

spence....
I have always been fond of penny loafers and wore them as a young boy. I want to get a new pair, but some of my fishing friends already think I have a little sugar in my tank... so to speak. Do you think a hetro-outdoors type could get away with a classic shoe like that?
thanks....
The penny loafer, or "Weejun" by Bass is a really piece of Americana and will never go out of style. Just make sure they are of decent quality, keep the loose change out of them and never...never wear them on a jetty.

And if you're having problems with friends thinking your gay, then I might suggest you find some gay friends which will certainly eliminate the issue :laugha:

-spence

Spence, any personal recommendations for a little spicy Cajun style fillet or fish chowda?
There are blackening spices you can buy pre-made (if you're at S&S think Paul Prudhomme before Emeril) or you can mix a batch of your own:

1/4 cup kosher salt
1/4 cup cayenne powder
1/4 cup paprika
1/4 cup garlic granules
1/4 cup black pepper
2 tablespoons onion granules
2 tablespoons dried oregano
2 tablespoons dried thyme
Source: Foodnetwork.com

TheDadFisherman is nuts on with the cast iron. You need sustained heat to form that great crust, and as it will create a lot of smoke an outdoor gas grill is ideal. I do mine on the deck with a large Le Creuset cast iron griddle.

Serve it with something acidic to cut through the heat, even some slices of fresh mango would be good. Or look online for a more elaborate recipe.

I'm not really experienced with chowders, but I can say that every time I've thrown a bunch of really good seafood into a pot with some wine and herbs, and just gently cooked it it's always come out great.

And while not a chowder, I have made this recipe which is fantastic...and perhaps more importantly, also easy to get good ingredients in our area:

http://www.foodnetwork.com/food/recipes/recipe/0,,FOOD_9936_5237,00.html

-spence

First, is a trucker hat with the phrase "Git er done" appropriate for a Christening? My argument is that it's fine as long as I am wearing my good jeans (without any holes) and my Sunday flannel shirt. Also, I'll take the hat off during the National Anthem.
Hats don't belong in church period, or so my mom used to tell me.

Please make sure your flannel has sleeves, and if you're secretly listening to the start of the race during the sermon...you're probably going to hell. :rtfm:

Second, are pork rinds and Andy Capp Pub Fries considered appetizers? I say yes, and my clueless wife say's they aren't and refuses to serve them at a dinner party. She says that she doesn't want to be embarrassed in front of her boss. I just think she thinks that something called croupdee tays is more fancier.
First off, no right minded woman would bet a pint of any liquor with a hunting motif on the label. Next time you're downstairs, I suggest you check again just to make sure that chorizo she claims she lifted from Shaws doesn't really need refridgeration.

But to the point, pork rinds and Capp'ers are perfectly OK as starters as long as the first course is A) Beer or B) being served in the big parking lot in Loudon, NH.

If the boss really is invited I'd say split the pint of Turkey and get out the camera. There will be no need to worry about embarrasment again.

-spence

My strawberry pie recipe calls for grated orange peel.With or without??

My strawberry pie recipe calls for grated orange peel.With or without??
Never made one, and my strawberry patch expired last season. Thanks for reminding me...

But as I'm a big fan of zest :kewl: I'd say use it.

-spence

Thanks Spence, appreciate the time and info :kewl:

Thanks a bunch, Spence. I think you should have your own column like Hints from Heloise in Good Housekeeping. You definitely know your stuff. Maybe John R will consider giving you your own little sub-section in the Scuppers.

Thanks a bunch, Spence. I think you should have your own column like Hints from Heloise in Good Housekeeping. You definitely know your stuff. Maybe John R will consider giving you your own little sub-section in the Scuppers.
I'd worry that people would become too dependent on me to guide them through life. If I was out on a long business trip or if there were an Internet disruption it could lead to mass chaos.

-spence

Spence, what's behind the solid colored ties being all the rage. :huh:

The penny loafer, or "Weejun" by Bass is a really piece of Americana and will never go out of style. Just make sure they are of decent quality, keep the loose change out of them and never...never wear them on a jetty.

And if you're having problems with friends thinking your gay, then I might suggest you find some gay friends which will certainly eliminate the issue :laugha:

-spence

thanks I feel better about getting them now... and I won't put the penny in there...the friends will just have to deal with my new footwear...:musc:

Spence, what's behind the solid colored ties being all the rage. :huh:
I think that trend has passed somewhat after Regis started a mini-trend back who Who Want's to be a Millioniare.

Skinny ties came back a few years ago, and many of these are solids, although you really need to be skinny to wear them. I rarely wear a solid tie, although I do keep a few darker ones for the right occations.

-spence

thanks I feel better about getting them now... and I won't put the penny in there...the friends will just have to deal with my new footwear...:musc:

Just make sure you match your handbag to the shoes, or else you'll really hear it from your friends.:D

Never made one, and my strawberry patch expired last season. Thanks for reminding me...

But as I'm a big fan of zest :kewl: I'd say use it.

-spence

Thanks Spence. I'll give it a try.

Thanks Spence. I'll give it a try.
Just remember that a little zest can go a long way to brighten up the flavor of the strawberries. Now if you've got your own patch and the're really primo you may not even need or want it.

-spence

I make a strawberry pie where I add some Crushed Pineapple to the Filling....Very Tasty

Spence have you ever poached striped bass?

Spence have you ever poached striped bass?
:lama:

Nice one :cheers:

-spence

Spence -

Do you like films with gladiators in them?

Spence -

Do you like films with gladiators in them?
Depends on the film. Gladiator with Russel Crow was most excellent, regardless of its historical accuracy.

-spence

Spence, with in season sliced strawberries, try a drizzle of GOOD aged balsamic viniger on them /// Delish!!!!!!!!!!

My wife was raised in a culinary life style
after being married for 27 yrs I've never had the same back to back meal even leftovers are speical, and my son Matt ( LINK JR) is carring the tradition
the LINKS:walk:

Spence, with in season sliced strawberries, try a drizzle of GOOD aged balsamic viniger on them /// Delish!!!!!!!!!! :

You're right about the balsamic vinegar. My wife makes a fresh baby spinach and strawberry salad with balsamic vinegar that is outstanding in the summer. It may have poppy seeds as well, but I'm not sure.

You're right about the balsamic vinegar. My wife makes a fresh baby spinach and strawberry salad with balsamic vinegar that is outstanding in the summer. It may have poppy seeds as well, but I'm not sure.

skip the poppy seeds and add some candied pecans....yeeeehaaah

were all ORGANIC & COW DAIRY free since JR's Illness and it might be a bit more$ but think about it // no chem, with meat no hormones no white sugar or flours, hormone free eggs , 15grams of FAT a DAY even I have felt much better since this episode
our life hasen't changed but were watching what we eat and it's worth it to keep our son episode free after all my family is # 1 to me.
LINK SR

I bet thoes pecans taste sweet with the Blasmic
ML

SID WAINERS in New Bedford from 11:30 till !pm on SAT. you can sample all their goods for FREE IT's a 5 STAR treat for ZIP
the cook is fantastic and the dishes are TASTY .
Anyone that has seen their trucks their a specialty food service Co
Don't miss this speical time from the minuite you walk in the door
the food is there you might be overwhelmed at first the place is small and the veggie section !!!!!!!!!!!!!1
they have SEEWEED to die for
LINK

Spence, with in season sliced strawberries, try a drizzle of GOOD aged balsamic viniger on them /// Delish!!!!!!!!!!
You think I'm a rookie?

For the record, as I'm on a diet, tonight I seared some lean beef tenderloin drizzled with a bit of 30 year aceto balsamico tradizionale...

Yea, the good stuff :humpty:

Makes me want to plant more strawberries!

-spence

:conf: OK, OK so if they call an orange an orange, right, then why don't they call a banana a yellow? Just axin'.....:lama: :nopain:

:conf: OK, OK so if they call an orange an orange, right, then why don't they call a banana a yellow? Just axin'.....:lama: :nopain:
Because banana's turn from green to yello as they ripen. This in many South African tribal dialects is called the "ban-yah". The word was brought back by Spanish explorers to mainland Europe and then modified to fit the English tongue.

-spence

Dear Spence,
My wife says she's not going to cook or shop until I re-do the bathroom, like I promised her. It's been two days, and I'm getting hungry!!! What can I do, short of fixing the bathroom?
" Hungry from Boston" :err:

Dear Spence,
My wife says she's not going to cook or shop until I re-do the bathroom, like I promised her. It's been two days, and I'm getting hungry!!! What can I do, short of fixing the bathroom?
" Hungry from Boston" :err:
You're the man right? Go pick up a pizza, a six pack, a ruler, a few pencils and some drafting paper.

With a nice buzz and a piece of pepperoni stuck to the side of your mouth, tell her have to plan the bathroom remodeling project first. They always hate this.

-spence

Spence;
I'm headed down south next week. What is the best way to pack a quart of menhaden oil with out the wife seeing it :D

Spence;
I'm headed down south next week. What is the best way to pack a quart of menhaden oil with out the wife seeing it :D
Given the 3-1-1 liquid policy now enforced by the TSA, you will have to check the liquid in your regular bagage.

Considering the chances of a rupture at altitute, and that this would destroy anything in the bag along with potentially the bags around yours I'd avoid the risk.

Spend 15 bucks to UPS the bunker oil to your hotel. Just make sure to tell her to check out the beach when you're checking in.

Wife. Got that's got to hurt you to have to say it.

-spence

One step ahead Spence.
The quart is inside three ziploc bags, and will be further sealed in heavier food saver bag before packing (in check of course.)

Can't UPS to this spot (out-islands of the Bahamas), too expensive and I would be home before it got there.

Unless it's already in a stout bottle, I'd consider purchasing something that's crush proof. I don't know about you but the thought of a leak, any leak would just...oh, the humanity.

Also, I'd pack it in an easy to get to location. An odd bottle of thick liquid packaged in a strange manner might be suspect.

-spence

Because banana's turn from green to yello as they ripen. This in many South African tribal dialects is called the "ban-yah". The word was brought back by Spanish explorers to mainland Europe and then modified to fit the English tongue.

-spence

OK, OK, if they call an orange an orange, right, why don't they call a banana a green to yellow?????????????????????:jump::eyes: I'm not going anywhere near the "modified to fit the English tongue" stuff:shocked::eek::hidin:

Which walk-in store has some of the more obscure ingrediants not often found at Stop & Shop? Produce, spices, meats, etc. Needs to be within 45 mins of me.

Which walk-in store has some of the more obscure ingrediants not often found at Stop & Shop? Produce, spices, meats, etc. Needs to be within 45 mins of me.
No clue as I only come down your way to go the the TJMaxx up the road :point:

Are you looking for anything specific? I've found when I buy wierd food items they tend to sit on the shelf until they expire.

That being said, most gourmet shops don't sell anything really that crazy. If you want obscure find a good Asian grocer.

-spence

Which walk-in store has some of the more obscure ingrediants not often found at Stop & Shop? Produce, spices, meats, etc. Needs to be within 45 mins of me.

FREDRICK'S of HOLLYWOOD:eyes:

Deer spence, how did you get to know everything?

Deer spence, how did you get to know everything?
Signed a deal with the devil, but I think it might come back to haunt me before it's all said and done.

-spence

Which walk-in store has some of the more obscure ingrediants not often found at Stop & Shop? Produce, spices, meats, etc. Needs to be within 45 mins of me.

try chef-a-roni on rt. 2 just south of frenchtown.

exotic meats, cheese, oils, ingredients & candies. no produce.

zac

Define "exotic meat".

Sounds interesting and on my way to Quonset Point where I've had business of late...

-spence

try chef-a-roni on rt. 2 just south of frenchtown.

exotic meats, cheese, oils, ingredients & candies. no produce.

zac

WOW!!!! Sounds like Frederick's of Hollywood, with the emphases on WOOD!!!!:blush: That's it, I'm OUT!:fishslap::bshake::rotflmao:

Where exactly would you put exotic meats if you were in posession of them ?

Spence, do you have a good recipie for the white sauce in chicken fricasee(sp?)

My mother-in-law used to make it with condensed milk as one of the ingredients.

Wow Spence, what a guy! I'm glad I got my question answered before the light bulb goes and you start charging us for this GREAT ADVICE! :hee:

Also: great sense of humor!!! :D

Spence -

7 for all Mankind, Mavi, Deisel, Lucky, or Paper Denim jeans?

:devil2:

Oh and BTW Spence, what is your take on the new spring fashion RL knit Polo shirt with the larger multicolored big Polo Player

and large #on the sleeve for a sporty take on a preppy standard. :huh:

Spence, do you have a good recipie for the white sauce in chicken fricasee(sp?)

My mother-in-law used to make it with condensed milk as one of the ingredients.
Haven't made a fricassee in a while. It's such a fun dish as you can make it into just about anything given what's in the pantry.

Using condensed milk sounds like a 1950's era shortcut, but it still may taste good. I'd stick with something made from wine, broth, cream and perhaps thickened with a little flour.

I searched around a bit and this recipe looked pretty inviting.

http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/237587

-spence

Spence -

7 for all Mankind, Mavi, Deisel, Lucky, or Paper Denim jeans?

:devil2:

I'm wearing Lucky's right now, but may be a bit old (god, am I really saying that?) to get into the premium denim thing.

All my jeans are either Lucky Brand or Joseph Abboud.

-spence

Oh and BTW Spence, what is your take on the new spring fashion RL knit Polo shirt with the larger multicolored big Polo Player

and large #on the sleeve for a sporty take on a preppy standard. :huh:
The big Polo player idea was a silly marketing hack that I can't endorse as it's absurd. I try to avoid most all logos to be honest, if Ralph wants me to be a billboard he'll need to send me a 10-99. It is tax time after all.

I do really like Ralph Lauren clothing though, as the style and cut work very well for me. I love the Purple Label line, although as it's incredibly expensive I can only manage to afford deals at a deep discount.

-spence

If I only own and wear jeans and a t shirt and only own one suit, funerals and weddings, does that make me a slave to fashion or a trend setter?

If I only own and wear jeans and a t shirt and only own one suit, funerals and weddings, does that make me a slave to fashion or a trend setter?
No it makes you practical. If you're comfortable day to day and can dress appropriate when the need strikes, you're doing better than most.

-spence

Practical, yup that is I.

As an aside, this wet afternoon was the perfect opportunity to polish the shoes I've been wearing the last few weeks.

-spence

Thanks for the recepie, Spence. Yup, she did make it in the 50's and it was good. :hihi:

Cordavans and wooden shoe trees. :cool:

Cordavans and wooden shoe trees. :cool:
Most of the shoes in that pic are full grain calf, but there is one pair of real shell cordovan (vegetable tanned horse hide)...and they are sweet :smokin:

-spence

Deer spence, who's the woman who invented Jack & Jill showers??? :(

As an aside, this wet afternoon was the perfect opportunity to polish the shoes I've been wearing the last few weeks.

-spence

I didn't see your "wading shoes"?! :tooth:

Deer spence, who's the woman who invented Jack & Jill showers??? :(
They used to be for weddings, which was fine by me. I don't really give a whip what it's called as long as the gifts are actually practical and there is plenty of liquor flowing.

But a baby shower is a different beast. There's no booze, even if it's a boy everything is decorated in pink, and when women are around a pregnant sister they all seem to think they're part of the plot.

I can't say who invented it for sure, but she certainly had to be a selfish and greedy beotch :hihi:

-spence

Practical, yup that is I.

Me too; although I DO have TWO sport coats now, in addition to a wedding/funeral suit! so I'm now a semi-slave to fashion....

Me too; although I DO have TWO sport coats now, in addition to a wedding/funeral suit! so I'm now a semi-slave to fashion....
It's not about being a slave, it about empowerment. In the real world people can size you up by your appearance in about 1/2 a second.

A nice sportcoat is like a suit of armor, and also gives you a place to stash your cell phone and fountain pen.

-spence

I am looking new waders to make me look slimmer while fishiing. which type do you think I should check out?

I am looking new waders to make me look slimmer while fishiing. which type do you think I should check out?
Most waders do seem to assume you're a "portly angler", but the Simms G3, while terribly expensive, do have a nice trim cut.

Fortunately, that much needed accessory, the wading belt helps to bring everything in around the middle just like it would for a traditional top coat.

-spence

Spence, while i think of it, are white socks worn with cordavans and a brown suit still frowned upon. :huh:

Check out the 7's or Mavi's Spence.....

Spence, while i think of it, are white socks worn with cordavans and a brown suit still frowned upon. :huh:
White socks should never be worn outside of the gym. As there are many working stiffs on the site, I'll give one allowance for white socks with work boots...but a nice grey heather would look better :p

-spence

LOL.

I need to have a suit altered for an upcoming wedding.Any good tailors in the Fall River,New Bedford area?Thanks.

dear spence,
my wife came home the other day to find me watching conspiracy theory on WET (women's empowerment television) (lifetime). i told her i was watching because mel gibson was in the movie, even though it was for julia roberts, and she seemed to be ok with that. later though a few of the guys came by and she took great pride in telling them that i watched lifetime with her. i took a serious ribbing over this.
is it ever ok for a real, construction working, meat eating, night fishing man to watch movies on this network?
thanks,
confusedinct

I need to have a suit altered for an upcoming wedding.Any good tailors in the Fall River,New Bedford area?Thanks.
Yes, I've never had him do anything terribly complicated but for basic alterations he does a good job. Just be specific if you're particular about anything.

Carlozzi Tailor Shop
(508) 675-5480
27 Bodge St, Fall River, MA

-spence

dear spence,
my wife came home the other day to find me watching conspiracy theory on WET (women's empowerment television) (lifetime). i told her i was watching because mel gibson was in the movie, even though it was for julia roberts, and she seemed to be ok with that. later though a few of the guys came by and she took great pride in telling them that i watched lifetime with her. i took a serious ribbing over this.
is it ever ok for a real, construction working, meat eating, night fishing man to watch movies on this network?
thanks,
confusedinct
If you're comfortable in your own skin, there's nothing wrong with a drippy, sappy, cheesy Lifetime movie with the wife. A) it may turn her on a bit and lead to some action and B) you're putting cookies in the jar for the upcoming season.

That being said, Mel Gibson is a freak and while an attractive woman Julia Roberts just ain't that hot.

I do wonder if you were really watching for Mel after all :hihi:

-spence

thanks spence (i think)
watching these sappy, drippy WET network movies never leads to any increase in action. usually she, and her louisville slugger, take over my side of the bed. she says she will save me from any evil doers that might attack.
this empowerment thing is dangerous. she damned near took out my knee the other night when i came back from takin a leak.

watchin for mel? now that's just:rude:

Yes, I've never had him do anything terribly complicated but for basic alterations he does a good job. Just be specific if you're particular about anything.

Carlozzi Tailor Shop
(508) 675-5480
27 Bodge St, Fall River, MA

-spence

Thanks for the recommendation.I'll give them a shot.

Spence, you seem to know more about fashion than most women I know. I work in a business casual environment and am looking to replace a pair of black and a pair of brown Rockports. I am looking for a moc toe that is very comfortable and wears well, while still being stylish. They needn't be very dressy, as I have shoes to wear with my suits. It's been a while since I bought new work shoes and I don't want to waste time shopping and trying several pairs on. Also, I am very happy with 2 pairs of the same exact style and am looking to spend $150 per pair or less. I am looking forward to your recomendations. Thanks in advance.

P.S. You should advise your readers to get the nookie before watching the girly movies so that they can fall asleep once it starts.

Spence, you seem to know more about fashion than most women I know. I work in a business casual environment and am looking to replace a pair of black and a pair of brown Rockports. I am looking for a moc toe that is very comfortable and wears well, while still being stylish. They needn't be very dressy, as I have shoes to wear with my suits. It's been a while since I bought new work shoes and I don't want to waste time shopping and trying several pairs on. Also, I am very happy with 2 pairs of the same exact style and am looking to spend $150 per pair or less. I am looking forward to your recomendations. Thanks in advance.

P.S. You should advise your readers to get the nookie before watching the girly movies so that they can fall asleep once it starts.
I'll take that as a compliment considering women make up more than half the population. By your reasoning I must be pretty smart :agree:

Considering that a lot of the time spent buying shoes is finding the proper fit, if the Rockports fit well and you like the style/value I'd go there as a first option if your primary requirement is as little shopping as possible.

Ecco makes a very comfortable and durable shoe at the upper end of your price range and I've always liked their style. But they do have that Euro comfort shoe look...

There are really a lot of options in the moc toe style, I won't bother posting suggestions as our preferences might not be the same.

Online you can't beat the shops with free shipping both ways (like Zappos) although they don't offer the best prices. Sierratradingpost.com has incredible deals (search for a coupon) but the selection is hit or miss.

Locally I'd say DSW offers the best selection/price in casual shoes and usually have a good offering of both brands mentioned above.

-spence

Thanks, Spence. That was a compliment about the fashion sense. I saw a pair of Ecco's for $120 that looked nice, but wasn't sure if they were a little too stylish for someone that does what I do for a living. I'll check them out. The less stores I have to go to, the better.

Hey Spence, your getting to be quite a celebrity!! Your the TALK OF THE TOWN in my local coffee shop. They've all joined this site just to read your column!!!! I think that you should charge for your advice, then John could charge you as a sponsor. Ha Ha. :btu:

Thanks, Spence. That was a compliment about the fashion sense. I saw a pair of Ecco's for $120 that looked nice, but wasn't sure if they were a little too stylish for someone that does what I do for a living. I'll check them out. The less stores I have to go to, the better.
Anyone can pull anything off if you feel comfortable in them. Some Ecco's have a more utilitarian feel to them, some are quite Euro.

-spence

Hey Spence, your getting to be quite a celebrity!! Your the TALK OF THE TOWN in my local coffee shop. They've all joined this site just to read your column!!!! I think that you should charge for your advice, then John could charge you as a sponsor. Ha Ha. :btu:
What kind of coffee shop? That could say a lot about your town...

I just want to help people.

-spence

Spence:
When you have a moment your thoughts on the following. White rice is best cooked with the absorption method where the amount of water is 2x the amount of rice. This generally works for me.
Where I go off the rails is brown rice. If you do 2x the water will be gone 1/3 of the way into the cooking time and it will burn. Is there a ratio for brown rice to water that you know of?
Thanks in advance.

Hi Spence,

Month long reader, first time poster.

Here goes: To cut down on my carbon footprint, I refuse to iron, but unlike Eddie Vedder I can no longer pull off the 38 year old grunge rocker look with wrinkly oxford type button downs. Can you suggest a wrinkle free button down shirt for business casual attire. Oh yes, and like the little bird chirps, I'm cheap, cheap, cheap. :cheers:

Spence:
When you have a moment your thoughts on the following. White rice is best cooked with the absorption method where the amount of water is 2x the amount of rice. This generally works for me.
Where I go off the rails is brown rice. If you do 2x the water will be gone 1/3 of the way into the cooking time and it will burn. Is there a ratio for brown rice to water that you know of?
Thanks in advance.

I think your answer is to use more water :wave:

Seriously, all rice isn't created equal and the volume of rice you're making will impact the rice/liquid ratio as well. Generally speaking, the larger the batch the less water is needed.

I'd also wonder about your cooking technique. Rice is best cooked in a very heavy pot over very low heat and with a tight lid the entire time. The opposite of any of this could easily boil off excess water and lead to scorching.

I don't know how well they work for brown rice, but if you make it often and by itsself, I'd look into an inexpensive electronic rice cooker...for white rice they are bulletproof.

Otherwise, try adding some more H2O and see what happens.

-spence

Hi Spence,

Month long reader, first time poster.

Here goes: To cut down on my carbon footprint, I refuse to iron, but unlike Eddie Vedder I can no longer pull off the 38 year old grunge rocker look with wrinkly oxford type button downs. Can you suggest a wrinkle free button down shirt for business casual attire. Oh yes, and like the little bird chirps, I'm cheap, cheap, cheap. :cheers:
Admitting you have a problem is a big, big step. Feel confident you're among friends :heybaby:

The problem with wrinkle free shirts is that most of them aren't all that great, and they will loose their wrinkle free'ness over time.

Cheap is relative and you may spend more buying inexpensive shirts that need to be replaced than you would with a few decent shirts that will last longer.

Nordstrom actually makes a very good non-iron shirt (and this comes from my Father who's a no iron Nazi) that I'd argue is priced moderately. I've bought him several for Christmas presents over the years and he's been very happy with them. There's probably a much better selection on the website.

Lands End is slightly less expensive and rumored to make a good no iron shirt as well. Although you may find that even these aren't "cheap".

As you can imagine, my closet is stuffed to the gills with shirts...so ironing them before each wear is a necessary ritual. You may want to consider just s#^&#^&#^&#^&#^&g it up and work on reducing your carbon footprint in other ways. Like all that gas you burn boating :hee:

-spence

Words of wisdom, but I'm way ahead of you on reducing my boating carbon footprint, I've gone from mooching rides on 2stroke powered boats to clean burning 4strokes.

Words of wisdom, but I'm way ahead of you on reducing my boating carbon footprint, I've gone from mooching rides on 2stroke powered boats to clean burning 4strokes.
Yes, but consider the "true" footprint involved here. That 4 stroke may burn cleaner, but it's a more complicated engine. The machining and transportation of all those components would require a lot more energy to produce.

Face it, you could be making matters worse :cheers:

-spence

I can live with that. But can you live with the little 3rd world fingers worked to the bone to make them fancy threads you wear :tm: :cheers2:

I can live with that. But can you live with the little 3rd world fingers worked to the bone to make them fancy threads you wear
Since when is Italy a third world nation? :hihi:

-spence

Where and when did you formulate your political ideologies?

Spence,
When can I start to wear corduroy pants? Is it too early now?