Dear Heloise: I have just acquired an older-model cast-iron waffle maker, and I'm having a hard time removing the baked-on grease. I am thinking about using an oven cleaner, but I'm worried that it might not be safe. Any suggestions? —C.S., via E-mail
I hope you have not used an oven cleaner, because it would NOT be safe.
Instead, wash the waffle iron with hot, soapy water, using a little elbow grease and a lot of patience for those stubborn areas. You should have success. Do not use any other abrasive, as it could damage the surface.
After cleaning, you will need to re-season the waffle iron before using. To do this, spread some unsalted shortening on both sides of four pieces of bread. Put one piece of the bread at a time in the waffle iron and cook until brown. Repeat with the remaining three pieces.
Note: Don't use vegetable spray on a heated waffle iron. The spray contains lecithin, which turns dark when sprayed on a hot surface and will build up a sticky residue. — Heloise
Dear Heloise: When warming food on small plates or in bowls (in the microwave — Heloise), I have found coffee filters to be a good covering.
They have the advantage of covering the container in a tentlike manner, have more structure and stay out of the food much better. — Tillman Hale, Victoria, Texas
Coffee filters are great for other things, too, like holding a quick snack such as popcorn or chips. Speaking of coffee, I have a pamphlet filled with all kinds of fabulous coffee and tea recipes, as well as helpful hints. If you would like one, please send $2 and a self-addressed, stamped (55 cents), long envelope to: Heloise/CT, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, TX 78279-5001. Here's an easy ginger tea recipe from the pamphlet: Put a small piece of fresh, peeled ginger in the pot with the tea or tea bags. A small piece of candied ginger works well, too. — Heloise
Dear Heloise: In my old age, I'm not fond of a lot of bending and stooping. So I'm pleased at the trick I discovered for finding things on the bottom level of the fridge.
An old, rectangular plastic dishpan holds a variety of objects, from a big stew pot to small jars. I pull it out by its rim and just shove it back. I don't know why I didn't think of this years ago!— A reader, via e-mail
© King Features Syndicate Inc.