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CNET
13-05-2025
- General
- CNET
4 Specialty Kitchen Knives I Can't Stop Using
Getting better at cooking has been an ongoing quest since I was a child. Each new recipe I negotiate expands my knowledge of spices and flavors and challenges me to hone my skills or learn new ones. Speaking of skills, the right kitchen knife can mean the difference between a hard recipe and an easy one -- it saves time and makes the food look and taste more appetizing. I've come a long way since prepping my first recipes with small blades that fit comfortably in a child's hands, like a paring knife or a utility knife. These days, I rely on my trusty chef knife for almost everything, from fresh pico de gallo salsa to ham fried rice. Almost. Believe it or not, sometimes it's too small or the wrong shape for a task. Beyond those three essential blades that every cook should have, here are my four favorite specialty kitchen knives and how I use them. Chinese cleaver The size and weight of the blade are key to the cleaver's design—it's heavy enough to receive a gravity assist when prepping meat and vegetables. John Carlsen/CNET I discovered Chinese cleavers, also called vegetable cleavers, in 2021 when I came across Made With Lau's YouTube video on How to Use a Chinese Chef Knife. Knowing that I should probably resist spending $50 on the Dexter Chinese Chefs Knife in the video, at least until I was sure I'd use it, I eventually picked up a Select Master Chinese Slicing Knife for less during a sale. At first glance, the Chinese cleaver resembles the bulky meat cleaver commonly seen in butcher shops, but its blade is typically thinner, lighter and sharper -- making it more of a general-use kitchen knife. While I rarely prepare meals for more than a handful of people, this knife makes short work of an entire head of cabbage. John Carlsen/CNET I get out the Chinese cleaver whenever I chop a lot of vegetables or slice ultrathin cuts of meat for Japanese BBQ. I love how wide the blade is, making it easy to achieve thin, uniform slices with pretty much any ingredient. However, I'll admit that it's too overpowered for mushrooms. I have two complaints about the Select Master Chinese Slicing Knife. First, it doesn't fit in the cleaver slot of my knife block, so I can't store it with my other knives for easy access. (I plan to add magnets to the side of the block, but I haven't gotten around to it yet.) If the size bothers you, consider a Japanese Nakiri's narrower blade—this one's on my wish list too. Second, the traditional round wooden handle isn't as comfortable as the ergonomic handles I'm used to on Western cutlery. Fortunately, you can find versions with ergonomic handles, like this one from Victorinox. Ulu knife An ulu packs a lot of utility into a relatively small design. John Carlsen/CNET My ulu knife is a souvenir from a trip to Alaska that quickly became my go-to for mincing herbs and chopping pecans. This was 15 years ago, so I can't tell you what brand I bought, but The Ulu Factory sells a similar knife and chopping board combo for around $70. This traditional Eskimo knife is similar to a one-handed Italian mezzaluna -- but not the two-handed ones you'll see in pizzerias. The ulu's curved blade is suitable for a rocking motion, which is easier to control than a bulky chef knife, but it's also great for slicing and chopping. I love that the handle's placement above the blade means you can put more power into your cuts. I recommend practicing your ulu skills with small ingredients until you get the hang of it instead of jumping headlong into slicing cheese or chopping root vegetables. John Carlsen/CNET You can use an ulu on any cutting board, but consider buying one with an accompanying wooden bowl. This pushes ingredients down into the cutting path and prevents stray nuts. Like the Chinese cleaver, an Alaskan ulu won't fit in a knife block. Fortunately, many ulus come with display stands or blade guards. I use a small hook on the back of my knife block. Slicing knife I'm still relatively new to large slicing and carving knives, but it's been a game-changer for homemade deli-style roast beef I make using sous-vide immersion cooking. John Carlsen/CNET If you've ever tried to slice a ham, large roast or turkey breast with a small knife, you know how elusive that perfect slice of meat can be. This is one reason I recently bought a 10-inch slicing knife with a Granton Edge from a local restaurant supply store. While this is on the smaller side for carving knives—I've seen models as long as 14 inches -- it's long enough to make clean, continuous cuts. My slicing knife also has a Granton edge -- a series of cutouts along the blade that allow the meat to peel away from the blade. This reduces friction and keeps your knife from tearing thinner slices apart while cutting. Don't forget to pair this knife with a carving fork for more control while slicing. Soft cheese knife The first time I used a cheese knife at a relative's, I knew it was a must-have tool for my cheese-loving household. John Carlsen/CNET A soft cheese knife takes the concept of blade cutouts to a new level by removing as much of the blade as possible. As the name implies, this knife is ideal for soft cheeses, like Brie or Camembert, which tend to stick to traditional knives. It can also slice fruits and vegetables well, though I still prefer a larger knife. It even works for slightly firmer cheeses like Colby Jack or Cheddar -- provided your cheese knife isn't as flimsy as the one I got at a secondhand store for a dollar. (It was a good deal, but I plan to upgrade soon.) You may find other unique kitchen knives that fit your cooking style better -- my experiences aren't universal. For example, the Chinese cleaver and ulu work as general-use kitchen knives, but I don't recommend getting a slicing knife or a cheese knife unless you constantly make meals that fit their skill sets. Still, it never hurts to explore new options for your cooking arsenal. Whether you experiment with a new knife or stick to your workhorse chef knife, practicing good knife maintenance and avoiding common kitchen knife pitfalls are always wins.
Forbes
03-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Mother's Day Gift Guide 2025: The 5 Best Afternoon Tea Tastings In London
Few gifts feel as timeless-or as indulgent-as afternoon tea in London. Whether you're celebrating a mother, grandmother, or mother figure in your life, high tea offers the perfect blend of elegance, comfort and quality time. And in a city where tradition meets modern luxury at every turn, London's tea scene has evolved far beyond finger sandwiches and scones. The tradition of afternoon tea dates back to the early 1840s, when Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, famously requested light refreshments to stave off late-day hunger before dinner was served. What began as a private ritual among the upper class quickly became a social event, complete with tea, pastries and pleasant conversation. While historically, this tradition cemented itself as a quintessentially British pastime, today, it's a celebration of craftsmanship, hospitality and elegantly stuffing your face with loved ones. From historic hotels pouring rare single-origin blends to contemporary tearooms serving inventive patisserie with a view, these curated experiences are more than just a meal-they're a memory for Mom in the making. Whether you're booking for the big day or gifting the experience for an upcoming trip to the world's most iconic metropolis, here are the most luxurious, creative and unforgettable afternoon tea offerings in London this Mother's Day. Edible art. This Japanese-English fusion high tea was one of the most distinctive and delicious I've ever experienced. Standout savory bites included the Japanese BBQ beef brisket sandwich on a pillowy milk bun and a delicate yuzu and ponzu-marinated scallop crudo. The tea selection strikes a balance between classics like English Breakfast and Earl Grey and rare finds like the rich, fragrant Honey Black. Desserts were both inventive and visually striking—showstoppers like The Great Wave Off Kanagawa and The Thunderstorm Beneath The Summit felt more like edible art than sweets. Whatever you do, don't miss the Truffle & Pistachio tea-it was a real standout. Book a table here. Afternoon Tea at The Ritz is the gold standard-literally. Served in the opulent Palm Court with its glittering chandeliers and gilded mirrors, this is tradition with a capital T. Menu highlights include finely cut finger sandwiches with fillings like cucumber and cream cheese or Tarragon chicken, warm scones with preserve and Cornish clotted cream and an array of pastries that rotate seasonally. With a resident pianist playing softly in the background and 20 types of loose-leaf tea on offer, including Black Lychee and Mint Chocolate, it's the kind of Mother's Day celebration that feels timeless-and totally unforgettable. Book a table here. Afternoon Tea at Claridge's is a Mother's Day classic, steeped in elegance and tradition. The menu is a masterclass in refinement: delicate finger sandwiches like smoked salmon with lemon cream cheese and egg mayonnaise with truffle, warm raisin and plain scones served with Marco Polo gelée and Cornish clotted cream and patisserie so artful it feels almost criminal to eat—think pear and crème fraîche cake or Yorkshire rhubarb and vanilla tart. Paired with a curated selection of rare teas and served under the soft glow of Claridge's Foyer, this experience is less a meal and more a love letter to indulgence. Perfect for elegant mothers who love the finer things in life. Book a table here. Quintessentially London. Located in the heart of London's vibrant theatre district, the Brumus London Calling Afternoon Tea at Haymarket Hotel is a perfect Mother's Day outing. With its whimsical, London-inspired menu and stylish, art-filled setting, it's ideal for treating Mum to an indulgent pre-show tea. You could even gift her 'tea and a show,' for a truly unforgettable day. Highlights include landmark-inspired desserts, a fried Scotch egg and a delicious steak pie bite. Book a table here. Located just steps from Tower Bridge in the upper foyer of The Tower Hotel, afternoon tea at VU From The Tower comes with a contemporary edge and one of the best views in the city. The refined yet approachable menu features classic finger sandwiches: smoked salmon with cream cheese, honey roast ham with grain mustard and egg mayo with watercress, served alongside warm fruit and plain scones with clotted cream and jam. The pâtisserie selection leans elegant and colorful, with standouts like lemon meringue pie, pistachio bombe on chocolate shortbread and fruit macarons. The view at VU is not to be missed. Book a table here.
Buzz Feed
03-04-2025
- General
- Buzz Feed
"It's My Go-To Easy Meal": People Are Sharing Their Favorite "Lazy" Costco Meals That Will Absolutely Save Your Wallet
If you've ever roamed the aisles of Costco, you know it's basically the mecca of bulk deals and convenience foods. Sometimes, after a long day of adulting (or just existing), the last thing you want to do is cook a meal from scratch. So, when all else fails, you can always turn to the wholesale wonder for a lazy yet satisfying feast. In an attempt to figure out which easy Costco meals are fan favorites, I headed over to the r/Costco subreddit — home to the most honest, no-nonsense opinions on the internet — and found a few threads where people shared their go-to lazy Costco dinner ideas. Get ready to fill up your cart and avoid doing real cooking all at once. Because isn't that what lazy meals are all about? 1. "My easiest is the orange chicken, sticky rice, and frozen green beans (all from Costco!). Also, I will do the frozen edamame because my kids (two and six) love it." 2. "Costco Italian sandwich: place an open-faced artisan roll on a baking sheet with basil pesto, salami, ham, prosciutto, and mozzarella balls. Toast until the cheese is melted. Add a slice of tomato and drizzle with red wine vinegar and balsamic vinegar. This sandwich cures seasonal depression." — Talusaboutit 3. "Lazy man enchiladas: rotisserie chicken, cheese, tortillas, and salsa (it has to be a salsa you like). Shred your chicken, chop it up a bit, put cheese and salsa in there, then fill your enchiladas with that mixture. Put the rest of the salsa on top with more cheese and bake." 4. "Bibigo microwave rice, shredded rotisserie, and Bachan's Japanese BBQ sauce make a great Asian-style BBQ chicken bowl. You can do the same with ground beef for a beef bowl." — Parking_Cranberry935 5. "Salmon, rice, and asparagus. Put the salmon and asparagus in the air fryer and the rice in a rice cooker. It's healthy, delicious, and easy." 7. "The chicken tikka masala is good. Warm it on the stovetop, and serve it over rice. We sauté some diced bell peppers and add a little extra heavy cream, garam masala, turmeric, cumin, and cayenne to the chicken mix for some extra flavor. You can get the naan dippers to go with it as well." For more budget-friendly recipes, download the free Tasty app, where you can save any of our 7,500+ recipes for easy grocery shopping and meal planning. 8. "Get the tortilla-crusted tilapia and throw them in the air fryer. They make wonderful fish tacos. Put whatever toppings you want! They pair really well with the lime crème sauce." — Banana_Clips 9. "We make 'cheater chicken parm.' It requires breaded chicken of your choice (we use the Tyson panko breaded tenders), five cheese tortellini, and marinara sauce. Cook everything according to package directions; cut the chicken into bite-size pieces, throw some cooked tortellini on a plate with a handful of chicken pieces, and cover in marinara sauce. If you feel fancy, you can add tomatoes and extra cheese." 10. "A feta cheese block, cherry tomatoes, and pasta. The TikTok recipe is viral for a reason and a staple in our house." 11. "Kirkland lightly breaded chicken breast chunks, PuraVida fire roasted root veggies, and Sweet Baby Ray's." — tuckedpin 12. "Chicken, two packs of the French country loaves, and maybe some tomatoes or a bag of salad. Freeze one of the loaves for next time. You can make sandwiches, but just the bread (with butter or chicken juices), chicken, and tomatoes is a perfect meal." 13. "Kielbasa, chopped bell pepper, and red onions. Toss in olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika, and lay on a foil-lined baking sheet. Put into a 425°F oven for 15 minutes or so to roast. Add the kielbasa when five or so minutes are remaining. Once done, chop kielbasa, and you're good to go. We'll sometimes do the pierogies with the kielbasa instead. Boil the perogies and sauté with butter in a pan. You can also sauté some diced yellow onion and serve with sour cream." 14. "Baked sweet potato (or any other kind of potato) topped with Amy's chili and avocado. You can add more toppings if you have/want them (cheese, Greek yogurt, jalapeños, etc.)." 15. "Rotisserie chicken and Rao's marinara, pesto sauce, or jarred curry sauce. Shred the chicken, heat it up in one of the sauces, and serve over pasta or rice. Serve with raw mini carrots, or slice and add carrots to the sauce of your choice." — throwaway22526411041 16. "We like the Rana chicken and pasta kits. I buy a bag of fresh spinach, broccoli, and sometimes the little tomatoes and throw in the sauce the last minute of microwaving." 17. "The ramen bowls in the freezer section (fresh, not deep-fried, rehydrated noodles). If I'm really hungry, I'll bake or air fry a couple of the Kirkland tempura shrimp for 10 minutes (also in the freezer section) to have on the side." — bemocked 18. "Definitely the shrimp cocktail over spring mix with diced apple cubes and some Kirkland Signature balsamic vinegar. I love that as a quick healthy lunch!" 19. "The rotisserie chicken is the ultimate. It's a whole, cooked chicken sold for less than the same amount of raw meat, saving you time and money. It can be put into almost any chicken dish (I use it for chile verde, pasta, soups, tamales, etc.). You can just carve it up with the skin on, roast it a little more in the oven (I do, like, 10 minutes at 375°F), and serve it with a salad and baguette or maybe rice. Boom, that's a sit-down quality dinner for your family that took maybe 20 minutes to make. I also love using the carcass for stock!" — drewdaddy213 20. "I always have a bag of frozen tortellini and a jug of minced garlic on hand. Cook the tortellini, then throw some butter and garlic in the pot to make a sauce while the pasta drains. It's my go-to easy meal. Sometimes, I'll have a sauce on hand like pesto or marinara, but if I don't have a jar opened, I go with butter and garlic. I also keep frozen shrimp on hand, which is nice because you can defrost shrimp quickly if you want protein." — HooWhatWhen 21. "In a large pot, add one jar of Rao's, one jar of water, and one bag of whatever frozen or fresh veg sounds good. Add some Better Than Bouillon (beef or chicken) and any other spices you want. Let this cook for about 10 minutes. Taste and add salt and pepper if needed. Add two cans of beans or one cup of dried lentils. If you're using dried lentils, cook them for 10 minutes. If you're using canned beans, cook until the beans are warm (about five minutes). Add more water if needed, bring to a boil, and add the pasta. Cook the pasta slightly longer than you would in water — it generally takes me 12 minutes instead of nine for whole-grain pasta. Serve with a dash of parmesan." 22. "Get a rotisserie chicken and a pack of King's Hawaiian buns. Remove as much meat as you can from the chicken, dice it, and throw it in a bowl. Sauté some red onions until cooked and add to the chicken, then add salt, a drizzle of olive oil, and some balsamic vinegar. Stir the whole thing up and make sandwiches. They are even better the next day." There you have it: Costco meals that are big on flavor but small on effort. Whether you're brand new to the world of bulk buying or you have your membership card memorized, these lazy meal ideas can truly make your dinner prep a cinch. Because sometimes you just want something delicious without all the fuss. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm off to grab a rotisserie chicken and a tub of spinach artichoke dip — for, you know, 'research.' Bon appétit and happy Costco shopping!
Khaleej Times
06-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Strawfire's iftar at Emirates Palace offers a Japanese twist on tradition
When it comes to iftar, the classics never fail but what if you infused them with bold Japanese flavours? That's exactly what Strawfire has done, and let me tell you, it's a game-changer. Hosted at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi, this limited-time dining experience merges elegance, tradition, and innovation against the stunning backdrop of Qasr Al Watan and the Abu Dhabi skyline. First impressions Dining at Emirates Palace always comes with an air of grandeur, and this iftar was no exception. Set within The Majlis by the Sea, the ambiance was immaculate - there was soft lighting, high arches, and a seamless indoor-outdoor flow, offering both intimacy and spectacle. But the real highlight? The food. The feast begins The chicken miso soup was a comforting start, delicate yet rich, with a depth of umami that set the tone for the meal. The vegetable kakiage was crisp, light, and addictive, especially with that tangy tendashi and a squeeze of fresh lemon. But the sweet potato gyoza? That was the surprise star of the starters. The feta and ponzu created a contrast of creamy and citrusy flavors that worked beautifully together. The sushi selection A good sushi platter can make or break an experience, and Strawfire didn't disappoint. The California rolls, made with blue swimmer crab, avocado, cucumber, and tobiko, were fresh, well-balanced, and indulgent. The prawn tempura maki packed a punch, with the crisp tempura and that silky amarillo mayo adding the perfect touch of richness. The main event The Australian Wagyu MB 4-5 striploin was cooked to perfection; it was tender, juicy, and enhanced by the deep, smoky sweetness of the Japanese BBQ sauce. It was accompanied by a crispy vegetable hot stone rice, which had layers of texture, from the crunchy bits at the bottom to the luscious onsen egg melting into the mix. The green beans, tossed in a bold tobanjan sauce and sesame dressing, were a surprisingly standout side, offering just the right kick of spice. A sweet finish By the time dessert rolled in, I was already impressed but the Strawfire dessert platter took it to another level. The date pudding was moist and indulgent, while the baklava monaka added a unique Japanese-Middle Eastern fusion twist. Seasonal fruits balanced out the sweetness, making for a perfectly satisfying end to the meal. Final verdict? Strawfire's iftar at Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental isn't just a meal, it's an experience. The balance of traditional flavors with Japanese finesse is executed with precision, making it one of the most unique Iftar offerings in Abu Dhabi this Ramadan. At Dh350 per person, it's a splurge, but one that's absolutely worth it. Would I go back? Without a doubt.
Associated Press
05-02-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Score Big on Game Day with Natural Grocers®
Snag up to 44% off party-pleasing essentials Feb. 6-9, 2025 LAKEWOOD, Colo., Feb. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Natural Grocers®, the nation's leading family-operated organic and natural grocery retailer, is gearing up for game day with unbeatable savings on all your must-have snacks and party essentials. BIG GAME SPECIALS Make a play for big savings with Natural Grocers' Big Game Specials, running Feb. 6-9 at all locations.[i] Whether you're tackling your snack lineup with deep discounts on good4uSM favorites, or serving up crowd-pleasing recipes, hosting your team has never been easier—or more delicious. No matter who claims victory on the field, you'll score big with winning deals and wholesome eats. With up to 44% off Natural Grocers' Always Affordable PricesSM, customers can win big before the game even starts. Enjoy discounts on fan favorites throughout the store, including: Chicas® Tortilla Chips: $3.35/7.5-8 oz. Frontera Foods® Salsas: $2.99/16 oz. CharcutnuvoTM Organic Beef Brats or Sausages: $6.69/10 oz. Bachan's® Japanese BBQ Sauces: $5.99/16-17 oz. SCORE MORE WITH {N}POWER® {N}power members can score an extra field goal with additional exclusive discounts: Feb. 6-9: 99¢ Organic Avocados (limit 3).[ii] Feb. 6-9: 10% off all beer and wine[iii] Hearty Chili Meal Deal: Feed up to four people for under $15 with Natural Grocers' hearty, Chili Meal Deal, including Thousand Hills® 80/20 Grass-Fed Ground Beef and Natural Grocers® Brand Organic Canned Beans, Fire Roasted Crushed Canned Tomatoes, Simply Organic® Chili Spice and organic yellow onions. Make the vegan option, featuring Beyond Meat® Beef-Free Crumbles for under $14. Offer ends March 30, 2025.[iv] To become an {N}power member visit or simply text 'organic' to 303-986-4600 to sign up.[v] A BIG-SCREEN SWEEPSTAKES Get ready for the ultimate game day upgrade! Natural Grocers is giving customers the chance to take home a stunning 75" Samsung® 4K QLED TV with its Big-Screen Sweepstakes. From February 6–9, 2025, shoppers can visit their local Natural Grocers store and enter in person for a shot at this $1,799-value grand prize.[vi] TOUCHDOWN-WORTHY RECIPES For those looking for trophy-winning recipes to showcase at your Game Day party, Natural Grocers has a full line-up of fun, easy-to-follow, nutritious recipes to make your guests cheer. From savory snacks to party wings, get ready to score a culinary touchdown. To learn more about a natural approach to living with sale items, recipes, educational articles, and more, subscribe to the free Health Hotline® Magazine at Customers can also simplify and save by downloading the Natural Grocers Mobile App. ABOUT NATURAL GROCERS BY VITAMIN COTTAGE Founded in 1955, Natural Grocers by Vitamin Cottage, Inc. (NYSE: NGVC) is an expanding specialty retailer of natural and organic groceries, body care products, and dietary supplements. The grocery products sold by Natural Grocers must meet strict quality guidelines and may not contain artificial flavors, preservatives, or sweeteners (as defined by its standards), synthetic colors, or partially hydrogenated or hydrogenated oils. The Company sells only USDA-certified organic produce and exclusively pasture-raised, non-confinement dairy products, and free-range eggs. Natural Grocers' flexible smaller-store format allows it to offer affordable prices in a shopper-friendly, clean, and convenient retail environment. The Company also provides extensive free science-based Nutrition Education programs to help customers and Crew make informed health and nutrition choices. Natural Grocers is committed to its 5 Founding Principles —including its 'Commitment to Community' and 'Commitment to Crew'. In fiscal year 2024, the Company invested more than $15 million in incremental compensation and discretionary payments for Crew. Headquartered in the Union Square neighborhood of Lakewood, CO, Natural Grocers has 168 stores in 21 states. Visit for more information and store locations. [i] Offers valid only from 2/6/2025 to 2/9/2025, are redeemable only for in-store customer purchases at participating stores and cannot be combined with other offers. Quantity limited to stock on hand; no rain checks. Pricing excludes tax and is subject to change without notice. Natural Grocers reserves the right to correct errors. [ii] Offers valid to registered {N}power members 2/6/2025 to 2/9/2025. Enter phone number at checkout to redeem. Limit 3 per customer, per product, for in-store purchases at participating Natural Grocers stores. Pricing excludes tax and is subject to change without notice. Quantity limited to stock on hand; no rain checks. Natural Grocers reserves the right to correct errors. {N}power offers available only to registered members and are subject to program terms and conditions available at [iii] Offers valid to registered {N}power members 2/6/2025 to 2/9/2025 for in-store customer purchases only at participating Natural Grocers® locations. Must be 21 or older for alcohol purchases. Please drink responsibly. Quantity limited to stock on hand; no rain checks. Pricing excludes taxes and is subject to change without notice. Void where prohibited by law. [iv] Offer only available to registered {N}power members. Price excludes tax. This offer ends March 30, 2025 and is redeemable only for in-store purchases at participating Natural Grocers stores. Pricing subject to change without notice. Quantity limited to stock on hand; no rain checks. Natural Grocers reserves the right to correct errors. [v] Message and data rates may apply. See for Privacy Policy and for the {N}power terms of use. [vi] NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE CHANCES OF WINNING. Open only to legal residents of the following states who are at least 18 years old at the time of entry: Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington and Wyoming. 1 winner company wide. Sweepstakes starts on February 6, 2025 and ends on February 9, 2025. Natural Grocers employees, including members of their households, are not eligible for this offer. For official rules and complete details, visit
