The Southern Way to Savor Watermelon: A Pinch of Salt

Watermelon, a symphony of juiciness and sweetness, is a quintessential treat for summer lovers globally. But in the Southern U.S., there’s a fascinating twist to relishing this fruit – a dash of salt atop its bright red flesh. While it might strike outsiders as peculiar, salting watermelon is a deep-rooted Southern gastronomic tradition.

Why Salt on Watermelon? Tracing the Legacy

The ritual of salting watermelon is embedded in the South’s culinary tapestry. The exact origin remains elusive, but it’s often linked to the desire to amplify the fruit’s essence in the sweltering Southern climate. Salt, nature’s flavor enhancer, was found to intensify watermelon’s inherent sweetness. Thus, what might’ve started as a culinary experiment, anchored itself as a cherished ritual in Southern summer feasts.

Sweet and Salty: The Science of the Palate

It might seem paradoxical to sprinkle salt over sweet watermelon. But science offers clarity. Salt diminishes bitter notes while elevating sweet perceptions. By adding salt, the watermelon’s juices mix with it, leading to an exquisite blend of briny-sweet flavor, providing a sensory delight.

Mastering the Art of Salting

Though the concept is straightforward, there’s nuance in execution. Some choose a delicate sprinkle, allowing a gentle flavor dance, while others opt for a bolder salt presence to accentuate the sweet-salty interplay. No hard and fast rule exists; it’s about one’s palate. Adventurous souls might even introduce lime zest or chili nuances.

An Emblem of Southern Warmth
Offering salted watermelon is more than just serving a snack; it’s an emblem of Southern cordiality. From serene family picnics to lively barbecues, the presence of watermelon is almost ceremonial. This custom often traverses family lines, binding generations through a shared, cherished memory.

A Tradition Beyond Borders
Though deeply Southern at heart, the allure of salted watermelon isn’t geographically confined. With cultural exchanges and culinary adventures becoming commonplace, this unique Southern gem has found aficionados far and wide. Today, various food fests and stalls, influenced by Southern flavors, have embraced salted watermelon as a signature offering.

A Pinch of Tradition, A World of Flavor
To outsiders, salting a watermelon might be a quirky culinary choice, but for those in the know, it’s a treasure trove of Southern heritage. It’s more than just food – it’s nostalgia, bonding, and a gastronomic journey that bridges the past with the present. Whether you’re a seasoned devotee or a curious novice, sprinkling salt on your next watermelon slice might just be the flavor explosion you never knew you needed. Embrace the South’s little secret and let your taste buds embark on a delightful adventure.

Credit: happycoking

I never really paid much attention to the odors in my refrigerator until one day, I opened the door and was met with a musty, sour smell that made me cringe. I immediately went into detective mode, trying to figure out where this unpleasant aroma was coming from. After a thorough investigation, it became clear that the source of the problem was not some forgotten leftovers or spoiled milk—it was the fridge itself.

You see, refrigerators are designed to keep our food fresh and safe to eat, but over time, they can develop their own unique scent. These odors often linger, and it can be a real challenge to get rid of them. That’s when I stumbled upon a simple yet effective solution: keeping a roll of toilet paper in the fridge.

Now, you might be wondering, “Toilet paper in the fridge? That sounds odd.” But hear me out. Toilet paper has absorbent properties that can work wonders in tackling refrigerator odors.

Here’s how it works:

Absorbent Properties: The absorbent nature of toilet paper is well-known. It’s designed to soak up moisture quickly, which is exactly what you need to combat those pesky fridge odors. By placing a clean toilet paper roll in your fridge, you’re essentially enlisting it as your odor-fighting ally.

Moisture Control: One of the reasons why odors often linger in the fridge is because of internal humidity. When moisture accumulates, it can create a breeding ground for bacteria and mold, leading to unpleasant smells. The toilet paper helps to absorb some of this humidity, along with the stinky particles, making your fridge a fresher place.

Cost and Eco-Friendly: Using a roll of toilet paper for this purpose is not only effective but also cost-effective and eco-friendly. You don’t need to invest in expensive odor-removing products or constantly replace them. A roll of toilet paper does the job without breaking the bank or harming the environment.

To give your toilet paper even more odor-fighting power, you can take it a step further. Here are a couple of additional tips:

Pair it with Baking Soda: Baking soda is another fantastic natural deodorizer. You can place a box of baking soda in your fridge alongside the toilet paper roll. The combination of these two odor-fighting agents will work wonders in keeping your fridge smelling fresh.

Baking Soda Paste: For more stubborn odors, you can create a baking soda paste and apply it directly to the toilet paper roll. Simply mix a bit of water with baking soda to make a thick paste, then spread it onto the roll. This will intensify the odor-absorbing properties of the toilet paper.

The idea of keeping a roll of toilet paper in your fridge might sound unusual at first, but it’s a simple and effective way to combat those unwanted odors. It’s all about using the natural absorbent properties of toilet paper to your advantage. Plus, it’s a cost-effective and eco-friendly solution that anyone can try. So, the next time you open your fridge and catch a whiff of something unpleasant, remember this handy tip and enjoy a fresher-smelling refrigerator.

Source: Oksana Panova/Shutterstock

Oven glass doors can easily accumulate grime, food splatters, and grease, making the oven look old and unkempt. However, getting that oven glass to sparkle again doesn’t require expensive cleaners or a significant amount of elbow grease. Here are three ingenious tips to make your oven door shine like new:

Baking Soda and Water Magic

What You Need:

Baking soda, water, and a soft cloth or sponge.

Procedure:

Begin by mixing baking soda with just enough water to create a spreadable paste. Apply this paste to the oven glass and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Using a soft cloth or sponge, gently scrub away the grime. Finally, wipe away the baking soda residue with a damp cloth and dry with a soft towel.

The Power of Vinegar

What You Need:
White vinegar,
water,
a spray bottle,
and a soft cloth.

Procedure:
Fill a spray bottle with equal parts of white vinegar and water. Shake it well and spray liberally onto the oven glass. Allow it to sit for a few minutes. The acetic acid in the vinegar will break down the grease and grime. Wipe it off with a soft cloth, and you’ll be left with a clean, streak-free shine.

Dish Soap: Not Just for Dishes!

What You Need:
Liquid dish soap,
water,
a bowl,
and a soft cloth or sponge.

Procedure:
In a bowl, mix a few drops of dish soap with water. Dip your cloth or sponge into the soapy water and scrub the oven glass in a circular motion. Dish soap is formulated to break down grease, making it a great choice for this task. Once you’re satisfied, rinse with clean water and dry with a towel.

Conclusion:
With these easy and eco-friendly tricks, your oven glass door can look brand new without the need for harsh chemicals or expensive cleaners. So, the next time your oven glass starts to lose its shine, you’ll know just what to do to bring back its sparkling glory!

Credit: happycoking

A poisoned colon can affect our quality of life and generate other pains, such as diabetes or frequent headaches. Purifying it brings benefits to the whole organism.

Many people do not know this , but it is estimated that 90% of diseases and weight problems are linked to a dirty colon.

This organ plays an important role in our health because it is responsible for expelling all the toxins and waste that our body does not need and which, in the long term, can cause serious health problems.

The juice we offer combines the benefits of beetroot, carrots and red apple to make an ideal drink for cleansing the intestine:

Ingredients :

• 6 kale leaves
• 3 carrots
• 2 red apples cut into pieces
• 1 beet
• Half a peeled lemon
• 2.5 cm piece of ginger

Do not forget to peel and wash the carrots, beet and lemon.

Make sure your fruits and vegetables are organic.

Instructions :

1. Pour one to two cups of water into your blender.
2. Add all the ingredients and mix everything.
3. Using a strainer, filter the mixture to collect the juice.
4. Mix again with a spoon.
5. You can add a few ice cubes to your juice to refresh it.
6. To store this juice, use a glass jar and put it in a refrigerator.

Warnings :

– Lemon is not recommended if you suffer from ulcer or heartburn or citrus allergy

– It is also not recommended if you are taking antacid medicines, or medicines to treat blood or heart problems.

– Beets are prohibited if you are on anticoagulant treatment or if you suffer from kidney disease.

Credit: happycoking

When you will reach home then you can blend cucumber slices & mint leaves and strain into the glass to enjoy your final (cucumber mint juice) drink for the day.

Ingredients

• 1/2 gallon water
• 1 grapefruit, sliced (can substitute with one lemon)
• 1 tangerine, sliced (can substitute with orange)
• 1 large cucumber, sliced
• 10-20 peppermint leaves
• Ice – as much as you like

Directions

Rinse grapefruit, tangerine, cucumber and peppermint leaves. Slice cucumber, grapefruit, and tangerine (or peel). Combine all ingredients in a half gallon pitcher. Allow ingredients to sit as long as possible for maximum benefits. Drink throughout the day and made a new pitcher everyday.

Stir & Enjoy!

MAGIC LEMON PIE
This wonderful shoemaker is truly magical! Simply pour the dough into a baking dish with melted butter, add the pie filling on top and while baking, the lemon pie filling and pie change places as if by magic. Such a fun dessert!

Ingredients

½ cup unsalted butter

1 cup flour

1 cup granulated sugar

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 tablespoons lemon zest, about 2 lemons

1 can of lemon pie filling

½ cup of lemon curdled milk

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees
2. In a small bowl, melt butter in the microwave.
3. Pour the butter into a 9×9 baking dish.
4. Make sure that the butter is evenly distributed.
5. In a large bowl, add the flour, sugar, buttermilk, vanilla and lemon zest.
6. Whisk until well blended.
7. Pour buttermilk paste evenly into buttered baking dish.
8. Spread the paste lightly over the entire baking dish.
9. In a small bowl, add lemon pie filling and dried lemon, stirring to combine.
10. Pour the lemon mixture over the buttermilk dough. Do not stir.
11. Bake in the oven for 55-60 minutes.
12. Remove from the oven and let stand.
13. Garnish with powdered sugar or icing if desired.

Credit: justcookwell

Dust is a perpetual nemesis in every household, seemingly appearing out of thin air and settling on every surface. It not only makes your home look untidy but can also trigger allergies and respiratory issues. While dusting and cleaning are necessary, there’s a simple and effective solution that can significantly reduce dust in your home. All you need are two common ingredients: fabric softener and water. Let’s explore how this mixture can keep your home dust-free.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

1. Fabric Softener: Any brand of liquid fabric softener will work.
2. Water: Use tap water or distilled water.

Creating the Dust-Repelling Solution:

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before you start, make sure you have a clean, empty spray bottle, fabric softener, and water.

Step 2: Mix the Solution
In your spray bottle, combine one part fabric softener with four parts water. For example, if you use one cup of fabric softener, add four cups of water. You can adjust the ratio based on the size of your spray bottle.

Step 3: Shake It Up
Seal the spray bottle and give it a good shake to ensure the fabric softener and water are well mixed.

Using the Dust-Repelling Solution:

Step 1: Prepare Your Surfaces
Before you begin, ensure the surfaces you plan to treat are clean and free of dust. You don’t want to lock in existing dust.

Step 2: Apply the Solution
Lightly spray the fabric softener and water mixture onto surfaces prone to dust, such as tabletops, shelves, blinds, and even electronic screens. Be cautious not to oversaturate the surfaces; a light misting is sufficient.

Step 3: Wipe and Buff
Using a clean, dry cloth or microfiber towel, gently wipe the sprayed surfaces. The fabric softener solution will leave a thin, invisible film that repels dust. It also imparts a pleasant fragrance to your home.

Step 4: Reapply as Needed
Reapply the solution as needed to maintain its dust-repelling properties. You can also use this mixture to clean and refresh upholstery and curtains.

Why Does It Work?
The fabric softener and water mixture works effectively against dust for several reasons:

Static Reduction:
Fabric softener contains anti-static agents that help reduce the static charge that attracts dust particles to surfaces.
Fragrance: It leaves a fresh scent behind, making your home smell delightful.

Surface Protection:
The thin film left behind by the solution not only repels dust but also adds a protective layer to your surfaces.
It’s important to note that while this solution can help reduce dust, regular cleaning and dusting are still essential for maintaining a clean and healthy home. However, incorporating this simple dust-repelling mixture into your cleaning routine can make a noticeable difference in how frequently you need to dust your home. Enjoy a cleaner, more dust-free living space with this cost-effective and straightforward solution.

Credit: healthy-juice

You know those dishes where only half of it actually reaches the table…because you kept taking a taste? Ya. These Parmesan Creamed Onions gets filed in that category. I loved this dish so much, I made it three nights in a row.

Ingredients

• 4 large Sweet Onions, peeled and then sliced ½ inch thick
• 3 tbsp extra virgin Olive Oil
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup white wine
• ¼ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)

How To Make Roasted Parmesan Creamed Onions

Preheat to 375* Carefully place the onions into a parchment lined baking dish
Be sure to not separate the onions
Drizzle with the Olive Oil And season with the salt and pepper
While the onions are in the oven place the heavy cream and white wine into a saucepan on the stove
Heat until the cream begins to simmer, once it simmers around the edges completely, remove from the heat and set to the side
Remove the onions from the oven and carefully set them into a baking dish while continuing to keep the rings intact and together.
Slowly pour the cream mixture over the onions and sprinkle with the parmesan cheese
Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and return to the oven
Bake for another 20 minutes, then remove the foil carefully and roast for another 5 minutes
Remove from the oven when the onions have begun to brown and caramelize.
Enjoy!

Credit: 1strecipes

Super easy, fast, budget-friendly one pot dinner! So hearty and so cozy with ground beef, rice and bell peppers.
This is one of the most cozy soup recipes with rich homestyle flavor. It totally reminds me of growing up and being home. There’s just so much goodness in one bowl of this hearty soup.
You’ll love the comforting flavors in this soup and how well all the flavors blend together. The peppers and tomatoes offer a mellow and faintly sweet flavor, while the beef kicks in that flavor that will remind you of a traditional stuffed pepper.
And the rice in this soup gives it such a great texture and adds some body to it to keep it filling.
It’s the lazy way of making stuffed peppers and one of my go-to soup recipes. Trust me you’ll love this one!

Ingredients

• 1/2 lb Italian sausage
• 1/2 lb lean ground beef
• 1 small finely chopped onion
• 1 green pepper, finely chopped
• 1 red pepper, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, chopped
• 4 c low sodium beef broth
• 2 cups low sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) salsa tomatoes
• 3/4 cup raw rice (I use jasmine)
• kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper
• How To Make Stuffed Pepper Soup

In a pot or casserole over medium heat, brown the Italian sausage and ground beef; separating as you go.
In the middle of browning, add onions and peppers; stirring several times. During the last minute of browning, reduce heat to medium-low and add chopped garlic, stirring constantly. Drain the excess fat.
Add the beef broth, chicken broth and tomatoes to the salsa and simmer. Simmer for 15 minutes or until the peppers begin to soften.
Add the rice and coat well. Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the rice is tender. For best results, serve quickly. Season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Credit: 1strecipes

Are your white clothes not as pristine as you’d like them to be, no matter how diligently you wash them? Do they lack that fresh, clean scent that’s so inviting? If you’ve been struggling to achieve that crisp, white, and fresh laundry, it’s time to discover the neighbor’s laundry trick that can transform your washing routine.

The Common Laundry Woes:

Many of us have faced the frustration of whites that seem dull and off-white, despite regular washing. Additionally, some laundry might not smell as fresh as we’d prefer, even after using fragrant detergents. If you can relate to these issues, you’re not alone.

The Neighbor’s Simple Solution:

Imagine a solution so simple it can be shared casually over a friendly chat with your neighbor. This is precisely how many have stumbled upon this laundry revelation. The secret ingredient? As common as it sounds, it’s hydrogen peroxide.

Here’s the Step-by-Step Guide:

Ingredients:

• Hydrogen Peroxide (3% solution): This is a readily available, inexpensive household item that’s generally used as an antiseptic.

Method:

1. Sort Your Laundry: Begin by sorting your laundry as you typically do, separating whites from colored items.
2. Pre-Treat Stains: If you have any visible stains on your white garments, consider pre-treating them with hydrogen peroxide. Apply a small amount directly to the stain and gently rub it in. Allow it to sit for a few minutes before adding the garment to your regular laundry load.
3. Load Your Washing Machine: Place your white laundry items into the washing machine as usual.
4. Add Hydrogen Peroxide: Instead of your regular detergent, add a cup of hydrogen peroxide (3% solution) to the detergent compartment of the washing machine.
5. Wash as Usual: Run your washing machine using its regular cycle, just as you normally would.
6. Dry as Usual: After washing, dry your laundry as usual. The result? Bright, white clothes that not only look cleaner but also have a fresh, inviting scent.

Why Does It Work?

Hydrogen peroxide is a mild bleaching agent and an excellent disinfectant. When used in your laundry, it helps to whiten your whites by lifting away stains and brightening fabrics. Additionally, it eliminates any lingering odors, leaving your laundry smelling remarkably fresh.

A Few Additional Tips:

• Test on a Small Area: Before using hydrogen peroxide on your entire load of whites, consider doing a spot test on a small, inconspicuous area of a garment to ensure it doesn’t affect the fabric.
• Don’t Overdo It: While hydrogen peroxide is generally safe for most fabrics, excessive use might lead to fabric damage. Stick to the recommended amount.
• Regular Maintenance: To maintain the brilliance of your whites, consider using this method every few washes or as needed.

In conclusion, achieving immaculately white and fresh-smelling laundry doesn’t have to be a mystery anymore. Thanks to a simple and cost-effective neighbor’s trick involving hydrogen peroxide, you can now enjoy the satisfaction of laundry that looks and smells just the way you like it. Give it a try, and watch your whites shine!

Credit: Healthy-Juice