Tips from Food Network Chefs....

I have gotten lots of use from an issue of Food Network magazine that included about 100 tips from their cooking stars.  I'll admit that I haven't tried any of these yet, but I am intrigued...

• For better-tasting asparagus, cure the stalks.  Peel them, roll in equal parts sugar and salt and let them sit for 10 minutes.  Rinse off and prepare as desired.
• Instead of brining your chicken, heavily salt it (inside and out) about an hour before you cook it.  Then pat it dry and roast.  The skin should be crispy and the meat juicy.
• Grinding your own beef for burgers, grind in some bacon.  It will provide extra flavor and a little fat to keep them juicy.
• Test to see if your oil is hot enough for frying by sticking a wooden skewer or spoon in the oil.  If bubbles form around the wood, you're set.