| How to Cook Pasta Posted: 21 Aug 2019 01:00 AM PDT Cooking a pot of pasta is one of the best kitchen skills you can learn. Pasta is inexpensive, cooks up quickly, and there are many ways to serve it, so if you don't know what to make for dinner, boil a pot of noodles! While they're cooking, check your pantry or refrigerator for pesto, sauce, or vegetables you can toss in. Within half an hour, you can have a homecooked pasta dinner on the table. [Edit]Boiling the Noodles - Fill a large pot about 2/3 full of water. Since the pasta needs lots of room to move around as it cooks, use a big pot. For example, if you'll be cooking a box of pasta, get out a pot that's at least in size. Then, pour in enough water to come 2/3 up the side of the pot.[1]
- If you use a pot that's too small, your pasta is more likely to clump together as it cooks.
- Cover the pot and bring the water to a boil. Set the pot of water on the stove and put a lid on it. Turn the burner to high and let the water come to a boil. You'll know the water is boiling when you see steam escaping from under the lid.[2]
- Covering the pot with a lid will make the water boil faster.
- Add salt and of pasta to the boiling water. Once the water boils vigorously, remove the lid and add 1 tablespoon (17 g) of salt and of pasta. If you're cooking long noodles, such as spaghetti, that don't fit in the pot, wait about 30 seconds and then push them into the water using a spoon or pasta fork. of pasta, use a sized pot.}}
- The salt will season the noodles as they cook, which will give you flavorful pasta.
- If you're unsure how many servings of pasta to cook, check the side of the box for recommended serving sizes.
- Set a timer for 3 to 8 minutes. Stir the noodles with a pasta fork to break the noodles up and leave the lid off the pot. Then, check the pasta package for a recommended cooking time and set a timer for the minimum time that's suggested. For example, if the box says to cook the noodles for 7 to 9 minutes, set a timer for 7 minutes.[3]
- Thin pasta, such as angel hair, will cook faster than thick or long noodles, such as fettuccine or penne, which take closer to 8 or 9 minutes.
- Stir the noodles occasionally as they boil. The water should continue to bubble as the pasta cooks. Stir it every few minutes to prevent the noodles from sticking together.
- If the water looks like it might boil over the sides of the pot, turn the burner down to medium-high.
- Bite into a noodle to see if it's cooked enough for you. Carefully scoop a noodle out of the water when the timer beeps and set it aside to cool a little. Bite into the noodle to tell if it's still hard in the center or if it's as soft as you like. Most people prefer to cook pasta until it's al dente, which means it's still a little firm in the center.[4]
- If the pasta is still too hard for your liking, boil it for another minute before checking it again.
[Edit]Draining the Pasta - Scoop out about of pasta water and set it aside. Carefully lower a mug into the pot and scoop some of the pasta water into it. Set the mug aside while you drain the pasta.[5]
- You can also use a ladle to spoon of the pasta water into a mug instead of lowering the mug into the water.
- Set a colander in the sink and put on oven mitts. Place a large colander in the bottom of the sink and wear oven mitts to protect your hands from the boiling water. Even though the burner is turned off, the water can burn you if it splashes your skin.[6]
- Pour the pasta into the colander and shake it. Slowly pour the pasta directly into the colander so the water drains into the sink. Hold the sides of the colander and shake it gently back and forth so excess water drips into the sink.[7]
- Avoid adding oil or running cold water over the pasta if you plan on using sauce. You may have heard people recommend tossing the cooked pasta with some olive oil or running cold water over the noodles to stop them from sticking together. Unfortunately, these can prevent sauce from sticking to your noodles.[8]
- Put the pasta back into the pot and toss it with your choice of sauce. Take the colander of pasta out of the sink and transfer the noodles into the pot that you cooked them in. Then, pour in as much of your favorite sauce as you like and use tongs to combine it with the pasta.[9]
- If the sauce is too thick, add some of the pasta water you reserved until the sauce loosens and coats the pasta.
[Edit]Pairing Pasta Types with Sauces - Toss short noodles with pesto or vegetables. Cook a pot of penne, fusilli, or farfalle pasta and stir in basil pesto. To add even more fresh flavor to the pasta, add chopped cherry tomatoes along with shredded bell peppers and zucchini.[10]
- To serve this as cold pasta salad, refrigerate the pasta for at least 1 hour before you serve it so the flavors can develop.
- If you don't like the taste of traditional pesto, give sun-dried tomato pesto a chance. It has a more mellow flavor that works well with rich cheese, such as parmesan.
- Mix cheese into macaroni or shells to make a creamy pasta. For the richest macaroni and cheese, stir together butter, flour, milk, and cheese to make sauce. Then, stir in cooked macaroni or shells and serve it or bake it to make it extra-bubbly.[11]
- Play around with using different cheeses to find what you like. For example, use monterey jack, feta, mozzarella, or smoked gouda.
- Serve meaty sauce over tubular or wide pasta. Boil a pot of pappardelle, penne, or bucatini and place it in a serving bowl. Spoon meat sauce, such as bolognese, over the noodles and stir them very gently so the meat sauce coats the pasta. Sprinkle a little parmesan over the top and serve the pasta while it's very hot.[12]
- Remember to thin the pasta with a little reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
- Stir creamy alfredo sauce into long pasta. To coat the strands of long pasta, such as spaghetti, fettuccini, and angel hair, use tongs to mix them with rich alfredo sauce. Heat heavy cream with butter and garlic to make classic alfredo sauce and consider serving the pasta with grilled chicken or smoked salmon.[13]
- For a slightly lighter sauce, melt butter with garlic and parsley. Then, toss the noodles in the simple sauce.
[Edit]Pasta Sauce and Topping Ideas - If you don't have access to a stove, try using your microwave to cook pasta.
[Edit]Warnings - Always wear oven mitts and use caution when you drain the pasta into the colander. Hot water could splash you and cause burns.
- Avoid stirring the boiling pasta with a metal spoon because the metal can heat up and make it difficult to hold.
[Edit]Things You'll Need - Colander
- Pasta fork or spoon
- Oven mitts
- Timer
[Edit]Related wikiHows [Edit]References [Edit]Quick Summary |
| How to Tell If You Have Allergies to Liquor Posted: 20 Aug 2019 05:00 PM PDT Allergies to liquor are uncommon and usually due to an allergy to a specific ingredient in the liquor, but you might suffer from an alcohol intolerance. An alcohol intolerance is caused by an accumulation of acetaldehyde. The symptoms can be extremely uncomfortable and severe in some cases. If you suspect that you have an alcohol intolerance, look for physical symptoms and internal and digestive issues, and then visit your doctor to complete medical testing. It's important to find out whether you have alcohol intolerance or an allergy, as consuming chemicals that you can't metabolize can have dire consequences. Keep in mind that if you experience a severe allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, it's important to call emergency services immediately. [Edit]Looking for Physical Symptoms - Look for red facial flushing on the face, neck, chest, or arms. Red flushing on the skin is one of the most common signs of alcohol intolerance. It is also very common for those of Asian descent, and is often referred to 'Asian flush.' Sufferers will initially feel a hot or tingling sensation prior to the red flushing. In some cases, your eyes might become red as well. These symptoms may result from drinking just one beer or glass of wine, and you'll quickly notice your face and neck getting red.[1]
- This reaction is caused by a mutation in the enzyme called acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, which is supposed to help metabolize alcohol.[2]
- Those who experience Asian flush are at greater risk for cancer. There are numerous advertised products that claim to get rid of Asian flush, such as Pepcid, but they do not protect you from long-term effects of drinking alcohol. So it's best to stick to less than 5 alcoholic drinks per week if you experience these symptoms.
- Flushing may also be due to combining alcohol with a medication you are taking.
- Take note of swelling around the face and eyes. Something that may accompany facial flushing is swelling around the red areas. The skin around the eyes, cheeks, and mouth may become visibly swollen after drinking alcohol. This is another sign of alcohol intolerance.[3]
- Feel your skin for hives. Red, itchy bumps, called hives, are a common symptom of an allergic reaction. These bumps appear pale red, and may also burn or sting. They can appear anywhere on the body, but you'll typically see them on the face, neck, or ears. Hives usually fade on their own but can last up to an hour or even days on your skin.[4]
- The appearance of hives typically means you are allergic to ingredients found in the alcohol. Stop drinking immediately and pick up a bottle of water instead.
- If you experience hives, apply cool compresses or wet cloths to the affected areas to reduce any itchiness or burning.
[Edit]Checking for Internal or Digestive Issues - Watch for nausea and vomiting. It's common for people to get nauseous and even vomit after consuming too much alcohol. However, if you have an allergy or are intolerant to alcohol, you may get nauseous after just 1-2 drinks. Nausea and vomiting with alcohol intolerance may also be accompanied by stomach pain.[5]
- Look out for diarrhea after drinking alcohol. Diarrhea is an uncomfortable condition, characterized by loose and watery stools. It is usually accompanied by other symptoms, such as bloating, cramps, and nausea. If you experience diarrhea after consuming alcohol, that is a sign of an alcohol allergy or intolerance, and you should put down your drink immediately.[6]
- Drink plenty of fluids (preferably water) if you suspect diarrhea. If you have watery stools multiple times a day and are not drinking enough water, you can easily become dehydrated.
- See your doctor if you experience severe symptoms along with diarrhea, such as bloody stools, a high fever that lasts longer than 24 hours, or severe pain in your abdomen.
- Feel a headache or migraine 1-2 hours after alcohol consumption. If you have severe alcohol intolerance, you may experience a painful headache or migraine. The symptoms of a migraine include a pounding headache, nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light. This headache pain may not occur until 1-2 hours after drinking, and it can last for several hours.[7]
- Observe congestion and other allergy symptoms. Wine, champagne, and beer contain histamines, which are chemicals released by the immune system help the body to get rid of allergens. When you consume something you're allergic to, histamines are released in the body, which can cause congestion, runny nose, and itchy, watery eyes. People with alcohol intolerance may be especially sensitive to red wine and other alcoholic beverages that contain high levels of histamines.[8]
- Wine and beer also contain sulfites, which are compounds that can also trigger allergy symptoms.
[Edit]Using Diagnostic Tests - Discuss symptoms with your doctor. If you suspect an alcohol allergy or intolerance, it is important to take a break from alcohol consumption and see a doctor. Your doctor will inquire about your family history, ask about your symptoms, and complete a physical exam. Other tests they perform can help with a diagnosis to determine an allergy or underlying cause of your alcohol intolerance.[9]
- Do a skin prick test for a quick diagnosis. The most popular test for food allergies is a skin prick test. During this test, the doctor places different drops of a solution containing various food allergens. Then, using a needle, the doctor gently pricks the skin to allow the solution to enter just below the surface. If a large white bump appears on the skin surrounded by redness, you are most likely allergic to the food that was tested. If no bumps or redness appears, you may not have an allergy to the test food.[10]
- Ask the doctor to test you for foods that are commonly found in alcohol, such as grapes, gluten, seafood, and grains.
- The results of this test typically appear within 30 minutes.
- Complete a blood test. A blood test can measure your immune system's response to certain foods by seeing if your blood contains antibodies for a specific substance. For this test, your doctor will send in a blood sample to a medical laboratory, where different foods will be tested.[11]
- The results of this test can take up to 2 weeks.
- Be wary of alcohol consumption if you have asthma or hay fever. There are only a few scientific studies on the link between asthma and alcohol intolerance, but researchers have found that drinking alcohol can sometimes trigger asthma symptoms in those who have the condition. The most common alcoholic beverages that worsen asthma symptoms include champagne, beer, white wine, red wine, fortified wines (such as sherry and port), and spirits (whiskey, brandy, and vodka). Alcohol also affects those with hay fever because it contains varying amounts of histamine, which can worsen symptoms.[12]
- If you have asthma or hay fever and suspect alcohol intolerance, stay away from red wine, which contains high levels of histamine.[13]
- Avoid alcohol if you have an allergy to grains or other foods. Alcoholic beverages contain a variety of different ingredients. If you are allergic to certain foods that are common ingredients, you may experience an allergic reaction when drinking them. Red wine is the most common alcoholic beverage that will cause an allergic reaction. Beer and whiskey are also likely to cause allergic reactions because they contain the 4 common allergens: yeast, barley, wheat, and hops. Some other common food allergens found in alcohol that may be contributing to your allergic reaction include the following:[14]
- Grapes
- Gluten
- Seafood proteins
- Rye
- Egg protein
- Sulfites
- Histamine
[Edit]Warnings - This article's advice is intended for people of legal drinking age.
- Mild alcohol intolerance may not require a trip to the doctor. However, if you're experiencing severe symptoms, such as trouble breathing, dizziness or fainting, or increased heart rate, call emergency services immediately. These may be signs of a life-threatening allergic reaction.
[Edit]Related wikiHows [Edit]References |
| How to Tie Surgical Knots Posted: 20 Aug 2019 09:00 AM PDT Tying surgical knots is an essential skill if you'll be in an operating room. There are 3 basic methods. When learning how to tie a surgical knot, begin by trying the two-handed method. This is the simplest and quickest method to learn. Once you become comfortable with this, practice tying the knot one-handed or with a pair of forceps. While these methods are harder to learn, they're faster and more efficient. All 3 methods take lots of practice to master, so be patient and don't give up! [Edit]Tying a Surgical Knot Two-Handed - Hold the short end of the string with your left hand. Start with the short end away from you. Hold it with your index finger and thumb. Raise the string so that it's standing vertically.[1]
- These instructions are for right-handed people. If you're left-handed, just reverse the instructions.
- Wrap the long end over the thumb of your right hand. Hold the long end so that it wraps over your thumb and then into your palm. Grab onto it like you would the handle of a bicycle. Then rotate your hand so that your thumb is facing upward.[2]
- Extend your right index finger and hook it around the short end. Hook onto the portion of the short end that's below your left hand. Use your right index finger to pull the short end toward you. Bring it close to the long end.[3]
- Slip your right index finger underneath the long end. Keep your right index finger hooked around the short end. Put the long end on top of your right index finger.[4]
- By the end of this step, your right index finger should be sandwiched between the short end and the long end.
- Grip the short end with your right thumb and index finger. Bring the short end over the long end by moving your left hand toward you. Grasp the short end securely.[5]
- Push the short end underneath the long end. Rotate your right hand to the right. Slide the piece of the short end you're pinching underneath the long end that's draped over your index finger.[6]
- Continue to pinch the short end through this step.
- Pull the short and long ends to tighten your half knot. Grasp the short end with your left hand and the long end with your right hand. Pull them in opposite directions to make a tight half knot.[7]
- Pull the short end toward you and the long end away from you.
- Loop the long end over your right index finger. Hold onto the long end as if you're grabbing a bicycle handle. Then extend your index finger. Rotate your hand so that the long end loops over your index finger.[8]
- Hook your right thumb around the short end. As you bring the short end toward the long end with your thumb, release the long end from your index finger and drape it over your right thumb.[9]
- By the end of this step, the short end should be looped under your thumb, and the long end over your thumb.
- Grip the short end with your thumb and index finger. After looping your thumb around the short end, pull the short end over the long end. Pinch the short end securely.[10]
- Push the short end through the loop around your thumb. Keep pinching the short end with your right-hand thumb and index finger. Slide it underneath the long end.[11]
- Pull the two ends to complete your knot. Once the short end is through the loop, pull the two ends in opposite directions. Pull the long end toward you and the short end away from you. Pull slowly and gently so you don't break the string.[12]
[Edit]Using One Hand to Tie - Hold the short end in your right hand with it looped over your index finger. Start by grabbing the short end as you would a bicycle handle. Then extend your index finger and rotate your hand so that the string loops around your index finger. Extend your other fingers so they're behind the string.[13]
- Hold the long end of the string with your left hand.
- Throughout this process, you should not move your left hand.
- Tying a one-handed surgical knot is more difficult than a two-handed knot, so getting lots of practice is especially important.
- These instructions are for right-handers. If you're left-handed, just reverse the instructions.
- Drape the long end around your right-hand fingers. Wrap the long end from your middle finger down toward your little finger. Keep hold of the short end with your thumb. [14]
- Try to keep your left hand still throughout the one-handed tying process.
- Use your right-hand middle finger to pull the long end underneath the short end. As you do this, keep the short end steady by pinching it with your right-hand thumb and index finger. Keep the long end taut with your left-hand thumb and index finger.[15]
- The long end and short end should form a cross over your 2 smallest fingers.
- Pull the short end underneath the long end and pull tight. Use your middle finger and thumb to push the short end through. Then pull the ends in opposite directions to tighten your knot.[16]
- This step will give you a finished half knot.
- Loop the short end over your extended index finger. Grab the short end as you would a bicycle handle, as you did at the beginning of this process. Then extend your index finger and rotate your hand so that the short end wraps around your index finger.[17]
- Hold the long end of the string with your left hand.
- Wrap your right index finger around the long end. Hold the long end with your left-hand thumb and index finger. Keep a hold on the short end with your right-hand thumb and middle finger.[18]
- The long end and short end will make a loop around your index finger.
- Pull the short end through the loop around your index finger. Use your middle finger and thumb to maneuver the short end over the long end. Then rotate your index finger to pull it through the loop.[19]
- Tighten the two ends. Pulling the two ends apart will help secure your knot. Pull the long end away from you and the short end toward you.[20]
- Repeat the above steps if you want or need to tie a second square knot.
[Edit]Mastering the Instrument Tie - Position a pair of forceps perpendicular to the string. Hold the forceps in your right hand, and point them to the left. Keep the forceps just above the string.[21]
- When setting up, keep the short end of the string away from you.
- These instructions are for right-handed readers.
- Use your left hand to loop the long end of the string around the forceps. Pinch the long end of the string with your left-hand thumb and index finger. Then, take it up and away from you, and over the forceps.[22]
- Grasp the tip of the short end with the forceps. With the long end of the string looped around the forceps, rotate the forceps away from you and toward the short end. Make sure you grasp the short end tightly with the forceps.[23]
- Continue to hold onto the long end with your left hand during this step.
- Pull the short end through the loop around your forceps. Once you pull the short end through the loop with the forceps, continue to pull the short end toward you and the long end away from you. Tighten the two ends to make your half knot.[24]
- Once you tighten this knot all the way, you can let go of the short end.
- Wrap the long end of the string around your forceps. Hold the forceps in your right hand and keep them above and perpendicular to the string. Point the tip of the forceps to your left. Grab the long end, which should be away from you, with your left hand. Then, bring it up, over the forceps, and toward you.[25]
- By the end of this step, the long end should be looped over your forceps.
- Grab the tip of the short end with your forceps. With the long end looped around your forceps, rotate the forceps toward the short end. After grabbing the short end, bring it up and toward the loop around your forceps.[26]
- Bring the short end through the loop around your forceps to finish. Once you pull the short end through the loop, tighten the knot by pulling the two ends away from each other. When you've tightened this knot, repeat all these steps to tie another knot, or let go of the short end with your forceps to finish.[27]
[Edit]References |
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