How to Cook

The Best Way to Choose a Ripe Avocado, According to Our Food Editors

Avocados are endlessly adaptable. But before you can put them to work in recipes, learn how to pick a ripe avocado. We put several methods for choosing a ripe avocado to the test, and this is the best one. ...

How to Cook Asparagus 8 Ways: Our Test Kitchen's Easy Methods

Learn how to season asparagus and prepare and cook it, so it's tender but not soggy—like at your favorite restaurant. And you can even microwave it! ...

How to Store Meringue and Cream Pies for Fluffy Results

It's important for bakers to know how to store meringue and cream pies to keep them fluffy, pretty, and tasting their best. Get our Test Kitchen tips. ...

Homemade Strawberry Jam

Homemade Strawberry Jam ...

Should You Wash Bananas After Bringing Them Home? Experts Clear Up the Confusion

Should you wash bananas after bringing them home? It might seem unnecessary since you peel the fruit before eating, but there are two very valid reasons why you should wash bananas before storing them. Learn more about the benefits of washing bananas and snag pro tips to keep them fresh for as long as possible. ...

Can You Eat Kiwi Skin?

Yes, and here’s why you should. We tapped Sarah Brekke, M.S., Better Homes & Gardens Test Kitchen culinary specialist, to tell us everything you need to know about eating kiwi skin. ...

The Surprising Ingredient in Raw Cookie Dough (Besides Eggs) That Could Make You Sick

Study up on the risks of eating raw cookie dough. You’re probably familiar with the danger of raw eggs, but did you know that raw flour can pose a health risk, too? Dietitians and a food safety specialist share more about raw cookie dough risks and how to stay safe as you enjoy cookie recipes and other baked goods. ...

How to Blanch Vegetables to Add to All Kinds of Recipes

Knowing how to blanch vegetables will help you keep them vibrant in color and the perfect texture for freezing and for all your favorite dishes. ...

7 Ways to Cook Corn on the Cob—Even in a Slow Cooker!

Learn the best ways to make corn on the cob to keep your seasonal menu fresh and exciting. ...

Cranberry-Orange Tea Ring

Cranberry-Orange Tea Ring ...

Caramel Apple Butter

Caramel Apple Butter ...

Are Apple Seeds OK to Eat? Here's What Food Safety Experts Have to Say

While snacking on an apple, you may have wondered why apple cores, including the seeds, are typically thrown away. Apple seeds have earned a deadly reputation for containing cyanide, which is highly lethal to humans. But just how dangerous are apple seeds, and should you be worried if you consume some? ...

How to Store Peppers So They Stay Crisp and Wrinkle-Free

Learn how to store mild and hot peppers to keep their flavors fresh for as long as possible. ...

How to Store Cherries So They Stay Fresh as Long as Possible

Plump, juicy cherries are superstars of summer fruit. Here are our Test Kitchen's best tips for storing cherries so they last. ...

How to Make a Cake Roll in 5 Steps for an Impressive Dessert

Spiraled cake rolls look tricky, but they whip up in just a few steps. Follow our cake roll recipe to learn how to make this dessert. ...

If You’re Not Making Pickled Watermelon Rind, You’re Missing the Best Part

Here's how to make watermelon rind pickles, including our Test Kitchen's best tips for using them in everything from salads to cocktails. ...

How to Cook Eggplant—5 Simple Methods

If you're wondering how to cook eggplant, keep reading. On the grill, roasted, sautéed, and—yes—even in the microwave, this vegetable is as versatile as it is delicious. ...

What You Need to Know About Sun Tea Safety

Is sun tea dangerous? Find out what you can do to keep enjoying this sweet beverage in the summer and what food safety rules to follow. ...

How to Boil an Egg So It’s Your Ideal Texture

Boiling an egg sounds simple, but getting that just-right texture is trickier than you think. Try our expert Test Kitchen tips on how to boil an egg to always get the perfect texture. ...

How to Can Salsa So You Have Homemade Chip Dip All Year Long

Preserve summer tomatoes with our guide to canning homemade salsa using your favorite recipe. ...