Food & Agriculture

Food & Agriculture

How do you keep cut avocados from turning brown?

IntroductionCut avocados turn brown quickly because the exposed flesh reacts with oxygen in the air. That brown layer—ca...
Food & Agriculture

Why do mushrooms release so much water when cooked?

IntroductionMushrooms seem to give off an astonishing amount of water when you cook them. That watery puddle in the pan ...
Food & Agriculture

What’s the difference between onions, shallots, and scallions?

IntroductionOnions, shallots, and scallions are all members of the Allium family, and they commonly appear together in r...
Food & Agriculture

Why does garlic sometimes turn green or blue?

IntroductionGarlic sometimes turns green or blue during cooking or storage. This harmless color change surprises many co...
Food & Agriculture

Why does cilantro taste like soap to some people?

IntroductionCilantro (also called coriander leaves) has a bright, herbal aroma that many people enjoy, but a significant...
Food & Agriculture

Why does spinach shrink so much when cooked?

IntroductionSpinach often appears to disappear when cooked: a large bowl of raw leaves shrinks to a small pile on the pl...
Food & Agriculture

Can you freeze milk without ruining its texture?

IntroductionFreezing milk is a common question for busy households and people who buy in bulk. The short answer: yes, yo...
Food & Agriculture

Why does milk spoil even when it’s refrigerated?

IntroductionMilk is a staple in many households, but even when stored in the refrigerator it can still sour. Understandi...
Food & Agriculture

How can you tell if an egg is still fresh?

IntroductionKnowing whether an egg is still fresh helps you cook safely and avoid waste. This article explains simple, r...
Food & Agriculture

Why do potatoes sprout, and can you still eat them?

IntroductionPotatoes sprout when the conditions signal them to grow new plants. Many home cooks find sprouts on stored p...
Food & Agriculture

Should tomatoes be stored in the refrigerator?

IntroductionShould tomatoes be stored in the refrigerator? This common kitchen question has a practical answer that affe...
Food & Agriculture

Why does lettuce wilt so quickly, and how can you keep it crisp?

IntroductionLettuce wilts quickly because it loses water faster than it can replace it. Wilting is primarily a physical ...