On today’s Last Bites Carla and Daphne share two pieces of essential kitchen information. First, Carla encourages home cooks to customize recipes and experiment with dishes, especially if they are curious in the kitchen. However, she warns that if they choose to alter recipes and substitute ingredients, they should not fault the recipe developer if the recipe does not turn out as they hoped. Recipes, especially those at The Chew, have been tested and then retested by our culinary mavens in the kitchen. So, while Carla feels it is legitimate for home cooks to experiment with recipes, they should remember that most recipes will work if home cooks follow the ingredient list. And hey, they might be pleasantly surprised by trying something new.

Second, Daphne offers a helpful tip about storing pantry items. For example, storing ground flour in the freezer will prevent it from going rancid. Also, nuts, or anything with oil, should be stored in the fridge so they last longer.