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June 23.2025
2 Minutes Read

Simple Solutions: How to Use Baking Soda and Sugar to Keep Ants Away

Cluster of ants near homemade ant killer solution container.

Beat Ants Easily with Common Kitchen Ingredients

For avid home cooks, nothing is more frustrating than discovering an army of ants invading your kitchen. Instead of reaching for expensive commercial repellents, there's a simple home remedy using just two common kitchen staples: baking soda and powdered sugar.

Combining these ingredients is straightforward. Simply fill a few clean jar lids with equal parts of baking soda and powdered sugar, mixing about ½ to ¾ tablespoon of each. The sugar attracts the ants, while the baking soda works to eliminate them once ingested. Refresh this mix every few days to keep the ants at bay. With consistent use, you should see a noticeable decrease in the ant population within a week! However, if the infestation is particularly stubborn, consider keeping your traps running for an extra week or two to ensure permanent elimination.

Additional Tips for a Pest-Free Kitchen

If you're determined to keep your kitchen pest-free, maintaining cleanliness is crucial. Wipe down surfaces regularly and store food in airtight containers to eliminate tempting food sources for ants. Remember, it’s key to clean up any food residue after cooking, not just at the end of the day. Keeping a tidy kitchen helps prevent pesky invaders and ultimately supports your love for cooking.

However, the battle doesn't stop at cleanliness. Consider using natural deterrents like vinegar or lemon juice to wipe down countertops. These liquids disrupt ant trails and make your kitchen less appealing to them. Food-grade diatomaceous earth is another effective treatment; sprinkle it wherever you notice ant activity. Being proactive in seeking out leaks or moisture spots can also limit their attraction, as ants thrive in humid environments.

Strategies to Bolster Your Ant Defense

For those with persistent pest problems, identifying and sealing entry points can reduce future infestations. Check your windows, doors, and baseboards for gaps and cracks where ants may sneak in. Seal those up with caulking to create a barrier against their invasion.

By combining simple home remedies like baking soda and powdered sugar with consistent kitchen hygiene practices, you can effectively control and eliminate ants without resorting to harmful chemicals. Not only is this cost-effective, but it also aligns with the values of sustainable home cooking!

Join the Conversation! Share Your Kitchen Tips.

Incorporating simple, effective kitchen hacks into your cooking routine not only makes your time in the kitchen more enjoyable but also encourages a sense of community among fellow cooking enthusiasts. What tips do you have to keep your kitchen clean and pest-free? Share them with the Chowhound foodie community and learn new strategies that others have discovered!

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09.28.2025

Before You Savor Crab Legs at a Buffet—Here’s What You Should Know

Update Why Crab Legs Should Be Off Your Buffet Plate Buffets tempt diners with an array of culinary delights, but some dishes come with hidden risks. Among the most common selections are crab legs, which might appear succulent and inviting, yet they pose a potential danger to your health if not handled properly. Campbell Mitchell of Quest4Food urges buffet-goers to exercise caution regarding seafood, specifically citing crab legs as a high-risk food due to their propensity to spoil quickly. Understanding Food Safety at Buffets Food safety in buffets is not just about avoiding seafood—it's about recognizing general hygiene practices. According to Mitchell, when assessing a buffet's appropriateness, look for vital indicators: proper refrigeration, cleanliness, and frequently replenished food trays. "Crab legs may be safe if they're chilled on ice, replenished often, and served with clean utensils," he explains. However, many diners are left in the dark about the safety measures behind the dishes they indulge in. Crucial Signs to Look For How can you ensure a pleasant dining experience and protect your health? The key lies in your observational skills. Clean tongs, visible ice beds, and vibrant colors of seafood signify freshness. Distrust those trays that appear congealed or lack sneeze guards—these indicators suggest a lack of proper food handling and sanitation. The Broader Buffet Landscape: What to Avoid Certain foods are more hazardous than others. In addition to crab legs, steer clear of high-risk items such as egg-based sauces, creamy salads, and certain meats. These food items can be particularly vulnerable to pathogens. As Mitchell emphasizes, always be cautious about items that are held in the danger zone—between 40°F and 140°F—where bacteria flourish. Experience Buffets Wisely for Your Health Dining at a buffet can be a rewarding experience, but maintaining awareness of food safety practices enhances the enjoyment. The takeaway is simple: enjoy yourself, get adventurous with meals that intrigue you, but be smart about your choices. If it looks questionable, pass it by! If home-cooked meals sound safer, why not learn new recipes to elevate your cooking game? Don’t miss opportunities to discover techniques and dishes that can make you a more confident cook at home. Explore Chowhound for fantastic recipes and cooking tips!

09.27.2025

Discover Ina Garten's Odd Bagel-Cutting Technique and Transform Your Breakfast

Update Why Cutting Bagels into Thirds is a Game-Changer Bagels have long been an iconic breakfast food, perfect for sandwiches and beloved by foodies everywhere. They serve as a hearty canvas for various toppings, but Food Network icon Ina Garten has proposed an unusual yet ingenious method for cutting bagels: into thirds. In her recent post, she states, "I think it tastes better." This is more than just an aesthetic choice; cutting bagels into thirds reduces the bread-to-filling ratio, allowing each bite to be packed with more flavor. Whether it’s a classic cream cheese spread or an innovative combination, this method promises to elevate your bagel game. Embrace New Sandwich Experiences with Bagel Thirds This cutting technique isn’t merely a fun twist; it opens up a world of possibilities for breakfast and brunch creations. In her signature style, Garten suggests trying a smoked salmon and cream cheese ensemble for a delightful morning treat. The brilliance lies in how the bagel’s lessened surface area complements the spread, allowing for a richer taste experience. As home cooks experiment with variations, topping the thirds with guacamole or even making a culinary play on the BLT can lead to unexpected surprises. Imagine a bacon, lettuce, and tomato sandwich on a delicately sliced, perfectly toasted bagel! Inspiration for Creative Breakfast Sandwiches With Garten's method in your back pocket, the sky's the limit when it comes to crafting breakfast sandwiches that would make the Barefoot Contessa proud. Indulge in a luxurious brunch BLT, enriching it with lobster and drizzled with bacon fat mayo for a culinary extravaganza. Or keep it simple yet classy with a fresh layer of peanut butter and elite raspberry jam, an easy yet sophisticated solution for those busy mornings. Joining the Bagel Cutting Revolution: Tips for Home Cooks Those looking to replicate Garten’s style can benefit from a few practical tips. First, ensure your cream cheese is at room temperature; this allows for a smooth spread that complements the bagel’s texture seamlessly. Don’t be afraid to get creative—think about seasonal ingredients and unique flavor pairings. With options ranging from savory to sweet, every cook can curate a bagel that suits their tastes and inspires their culinary creativity. Why This Technique Matters to the Culinary Community Exploring unconventional methods like Garten’s bagel cutting technique not only enriches our culinary repertoire but also fosters a community of innovation among home cooks. Embracing the idea that the way we prepare our food can significantly alter our dining experience encourages us to think outside of traditional norms. By advocating for new techniques, we’re not just sharing meals but weaving the threads that connect diverse culinary cultures. If you’ve enjoyed this peek into reinventing your breakfast routine, why not take a step further? Connect with like-minded food enthusiasts and discover more culinary tips by joining Las Vegas Local Unplugged on Facebook and YouTube for exclusive information and delicious inspiration. @lasvegaslocalunplugged

09.25.2025

Transform Your Dinners with Joanna Gaines' Grown-Up Baked Pasta

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