Cynthia 
3 oz of chicken is about the size of a deck of cards or the palm of your hand, minus your fingers. That’s roughly 85 grams, and it’s the USDA’s standard protein serving. I eyeball this constantly when I’m cooking for one and don’t want to pull out a scale every time. This is how
Microwave kippers on a covered, microwave-safe dish for 2 to 3 minutes on high, checking for doneness at the 2-minute mark. It’s the fastest way to cook them without heating up the whole kitchen. I reach for kippers when I want something breakfast-y that isn’t eggs again, and the microwave gets them on the plate
Yes, you can microwave a hot dog. It’s fully cooked already, so you’re just reheating it until it’s steaming hot, which usually takes 30 to 60 seconds. I microwave hot dogs more than I’d like to admit when I’m short on time. It’s fast, it works, and once you know why hot dogs sometimes split
No, a noisy microwave usually isn’t dangerous. Most of the sound comes from the fan and turntable motor, which is normal. The exception is a grinding or sparking noise, which can signal a part that needs repair. My microwave has always hummed a bit louder than I’d like, and I spent a while assuming that
Most microwaves have a dedicated sound or mute button on the control panel, usually held down for a few seconds to toggle the beep off. If yours doesn’t, unplugging it or opening the door before the timer ends will stop the beeping too. I have a microwave in a small apartment where the beep wakes
Brandy is the closest substitute for cognac in cooking, since cognac is technically just a specific type of brandy from the Cognac region of France. Sherry, whiskey, and a few non-alcoholic options also work depending on the recipe. I don’t keep cognac on hand for everyday cooking. It’s expensive, and most recipes don’t need the
Orange water, hibiscus water, and rose essence are the closest substitutes for rose water, since they’re all floral distillations with a similar delicate character. Vanilla extract, lavender, and almond extract work too, with a bit more flavor adjustment. I keep orange water on hand specifically for the times I’ve run out of rose water mid-recipe.
Microwave a standard El Monterey burrito on high for 1 minute 15 seconds, flipping halfway, then let it stand for 30 seconds before checking that it’s hit 165°F inside. I keep a box of El Monterey burritos in my freezer at all times. They are fast, filling, and cheap enough that I never feel bad
Store leftover meatloaf in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, or wrap it tightly and freeze it for up to 3-4 months. Meatloaf is one of those dinners that almost always makes too much. I used to just cover the pan and stick the whole thing in the fridge, and