Kosher Tips

Whole wheat pastry flour has less gluten-forming potential than regular whole wheat flour, making it a better choice for tender baked goods.

When using cake pans, they must be greased and floured to create a thin layer of protection against the oven’s heat.

To get the most volume from beaten eggs, it’s best for them to be at room temperature

Oat flour, made from finely milled whole oats, is a good source of dietary fiber and whole grains. It can replace a portion of all-purpose flour in many baking recipes and adds an oat flavor and texture.

Tempeh is a chewy, nutty, fermented soybean loaf. Find it (plain or with added grains) near refrigerated tofu in natural-foods stores and many large supermarkets.

Mirin is a sweet, low-alcohol rice wine essential in Japanese cooking. Look for it in your supermarket with the Asian ingredients.

Kirsch (also called kirschwasser) is clear cherry brandy, commonly used as a flavor enhancer in fondue and cherries jubilee.

Considered the world’s most expensive spice, saffron contributes a pungent flavor and intense yellow color. It is sold in threads and powdered form.

To make “ribbon-thin” zucchini, slice lengthwise with a vegetable peeler or a mandoline slicer.

No buttermilk? Mix 1 tablespoon lemon juice into 1 cup milk.

When grilling delicate foods like tofu and fish, it is helpful to spray the food with cooking spray before placing it on the grill.

To oil the grill rack, oil a folded paper towel, hold it with tongs and rub it over the rack. (Do not use cooking spray on a hot grill.)

To pit a cherry, halve it with a paring knife then pry out the pit with the tip of the knife, or use a cherry pitter.

Greek-style yogurt is made by removing the whey from cultured milk. Removing the whey gives it an extra thick and creamy texture.

Quinoa is a delicately flavored, protein-rich grain. Rinsing removes any residue of saponin, quinoa’s natural, bitter protective covering. Find it in natural-foods stores and the natural-foods sections of many supermarkets.