Pondering the Pantry (Press to Buy Book)

Pondering the Pantry --- Stuffed Vegetables There is virtually no end to vegetables that can be stuffed, the list of fillings is and extensive. One can stuff grape leaves, carrots, tomatoes, pumpkin, cabbage… even chestnuts. Virtually any vegetable. When prepared properly, these dishes can be both delicious and nutritious. There are, however, two basic problems. Preparation can be both labour intensive and time consuming. Eight years ago Yaron ben Yaish, an innovative businessman, evaluated the situation, sold his business dealing with interior design (totally unrelated to food), and founded Ale-Gefen, specializing in stuffed vegetables (kosher pareve filings only) under the very pragmatic motto, “We cook for you.” There are people who enjoy cooking, but for others it is easier or more practical to look for products ready-made, particularly when preparation takes time. Yaron knew nothing about stuffed vegetables. His neighbors spoke about traditional stuffed dishes. No one wa...

Store shelves often have a wide selection of disposable eating utensils and kitchen products. There is no such thing as "best buy." Some shoppers look for quality. For others price can be a very strong consideration, but not for everyone. A basic caveat is that consumers be aware of what they are buying. An interview with R[euven]. Shamay, Ltd., an Israeli   company enjoying a rapidly growing  market, provided interesting insights that apply to all consumers. Liquid dish-washing detergent is reason a prime example of a common purchase. One key to buying is the viscosity of the product, or simply flow of the soap from the bottle and how long it will last. For background, if a liquid soap is too strong, it can be an irritant to the skin. For that reason Israel no longer permits 36% active ingredients in liquid dish soap. Common compositions are now 24%, 18% and 12%. Frequent methods to achieve lower numbers are diluting the soap with fragrances and even water. Reason says ...

Welcome to our new blog based on the book, Pondering the Pantry. We shall be offering periodic postings with information about food and food-related products, helping the consumer be a smart buyer and not be fooled by marketing gimmicks.  How do you buy a disposable cup that does not collapse when you pick up your drink? Which olive oil is best for salads? Why is there salt in tomato sauce? Stay with us for practical advice! For libraries this is an essential resource. For those in the food business the blog can offer insights and product ideas. Of course no one has all of the answers. Your feedback is important to us. Looking forward to hearing from you! Just hit the SUBSCRIBE box to your left. _______________________________________________________________ Stuffed Vegetables There is virtually no end to vegetables that can be stuffed, the list of fillings is and extensive. One can stuff grape leaves, carrots, tomatoes, pumpkin, cabbage… even chestnuts. Virtually a...