In learning to cook, it helps to understand the science behind it. That is my second favorite thing about food; it's a beautiful balance between science and art. (My first favorite thing about food is eating it!) These books helped me tremendously in the kitchen, teaching me everything from the fundamental characteristics and rules to … Continue reading Favorite Food Science Books of 2021
Author: mainstaykitchenandhome
Surprising Favorite Cookbooks of 2021
In devouring so many cookbooks throughout 2021, there were some that truly surprised me. Authors who have nothing to do with the culinary world, instead hailing from film, television, and music. And yet, their recipes are good! If you've ever dismissed these because you thought their authors couldn't possibly be skilled in the kitchen, I … Continue reading Surprising Favorite Cookbooks of 2021
Favorite Healthy Cookbooks of 2021
Throughout 2021, I've had to deal with a health condition that keeps me on a restrictive diet on a long-term basis. That doesn't mean, however, that I no longer want my meals to taste great. So I started looking for help in the form of health-minded cookbooks from chefs that understand flavor. After perusing quite … Continue reading Favorite Healthy Cookbooks of 2021
Favorite Baking Cookbooks of 2021
My baking game has come a long way in 2021, and these baking cookbooks are a big part of the reason why. From James Beard Award winners to internet stars, these baker authors combine foundational basics with delicious flavor combinations, and even some beloved copy cat recipes you'll never believe you can make at home! … Continue reading Favorite Baking Cookbooks of 2021
Overall Favorite Cookbooks of 2021
Before 2021, I didn't have a cookbook problem. I didn't even own very many cookbooks. However, in late January, I was diagnosed with a health condition with a 12-18 month recovery period, including significant diet restriction. That was tough news for someone who loves food as much as I do. Instead of feeling sorry for … Continue reading Overall Favorite Cookbooks of 2021
Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole
Looking for an easy, satisfying breakfast for all your excited loved ones on Christmas morning? This is our favorite go-to recipe for easily feeding a hungry group before you've had your morning coffee! Nobody wants to be stuck in the kitchen while everyone else is celebrating somewhere else. This egg-based casserole bakes in a single dish … Continue reading Christmas Morning Breakfast Casserole
2021 Mainstay Christmas Goodies Platter
We've finally finished our Cookie Platter for the 2021 Christmas season! However, with Cocoa Bombs, blondie bars, and peppermint bark, perhaps we should call it a goodies platter??? This year's platter includes some of our festive favorites! Pecan Coffee ThumbprintsGrinch Heart Sugar CookiesSpiced Molasses CookiesRussian Tea Cakes (not pictured)Chocolate-Dipped Coconut MacaroonsMelted Snowman Peppermint BarkOrange Cranberry … Continue reading 2021 Mainstay Christmas Goodies Platter
Christmas Clean-Up Tips
Let's be honest: the holidays are exhausting! Once the preparations and festivities are over, it's a miracle we get through the piles of dirty dishes, let alone putting away all the décor. The temptation to mindlessly shove everything holiday-related into bins and out of your sight until next year is strong. And sometimes, life circumstances … Continue reading Christmas Clean-Up Tips
Our Favorite Christmas Movies
White Christmas I remember running down to the basement of my grandparent's house as a young child to watch White Christmas over and over and over again. By the time I was six, I knew every word, sung or spoken, even though I didn't understand what all of the punchlines meant. I knew it was … Continue reading Our Favorite Christmas Movies
Hot Cocoa Tiered Tray
We combined two current popular trends into one fantastic new idea: a hot cocoa bar built on a tiered tray! The options are only limited by the size of your tray and your imagination. To build a hot cocoa bar that will impress all your holiday guests, consider offering some of these tasty options: Your … Continue reading Hot Cocoa Tiered Tray