Will freezing fat-free milk change its taste?
Dear Heloise: If I freeze a quart of fat-free milk, will it taste the same when it thaws? — B.J., via email
Let me start by stating that I have been known to freeze skim milk before, and I have not had a problem. Some foods will have texture changes or slight taste changes after freezing. Milk producers don’t recommend freezing milk because temperature changes may affect the consistency, but many people do. Try it for yourself and see if you are happy with the taste and texture of the milk after you have thawed it in the refrigerator.
Most any food can be frozen (with the exception of eggs in the shell and canned items. You can freeze items once removed from the can). However, personal preference will determine whether you are happy with the defrosted product after freezing. — Heloise
Healthier choices
Dear Readers: Many of us are trying to make better, healthier food choices, especially when eating away from home. Here are some hints to try the next time you eat out:
n Ask for salad dressings, gravies and sauces to be served on the side.
n Substitute whole black beans for refried, and corn tortillas for flour.
n Do not order fried food. Select foods that are steamed, broiled or grilled.
n Instead of potato side dishes, ask for extra vegetables.
n When ordering pasta, choose red sauces. White sauces are made with cream and butter, which equals calories and fat.
With these small changes, you can be satisfied but healthier. — Heloise
Send a money-saving or timesaving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000; fax it to 1-210-435-6473 or email it to Heloise@Heloise.com.