Cheese should be kept in the fridge

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This article was published 04/01/2020 (2078 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Question: I noticed that my local grocery store leaves blocks of cheese on the counter beside the cash register. Can I store my marble cheese block at room temperature? Thanks. — Martin

Answer: Most blocks of cheese require refrigeration. Some high-quality cheeses left in the original package and not exposed to air can be kept in the fridge indefinitely. However, cheese changes after opening, and may be stored in the fridge for up to two months.

Another storage option is to cut cheese into manageable pieces and freeze individual blocks in sealable bags. Thaw and use as normal.

The disadvantage to freezing cheese is it becomes crumbly and more difficult to slice. To overcome this challenge, slice cheese before freezing. Put a piece of wax paper between slices, bag and freeze.

 

Question: I travel a lot with my job, and pack shoes and clothes together in my suitcase on a weekly basis. Do you have any ideas as to how to prevent my clothing from becoming soiled from my dirty shoes? Thanks. — Peter

Answer: Either put your shoes in a drawstring bag to keep them separate from clothing, or put each shoe inside an old sock for travelling. When you return home, remove the shoes from the socks and leave the socks inside the suitcase for the next trip.

 

Question: I was painting and forgot to remove my wedding ring. Now I have dried latex paint all over my ring. What is the best homemade way to clean the ring? — Elma

Answer: Soak the ring in 50/50 household ammonia and three per cent hydrogen peroxide for 30 minutes. Brush the ring with an ultra-soft toothbrush and polish. Keep in mind many jewellers offer free jewelry cleaning.

 

Tips of the week

Polish stainless-steel cutlery by rubbing it with the cut side of a raw potato. Wipe and polish with water.

Vinegar is the best for cleaning calcium deposits and scum in humidifiers.

Store cut raw onions in an airtight screw-top glass jar. A cut onion will remain fresh for up to one week.

If you have run out of self-rising flour, substitute! Add 1-1/2 teaspoons of baking soda to a cup of plain flour along with a generous pinch of salt. Voilà — homemade self-rising flour.

 

Note: Every user assumes all risks of injury or damage resulting from the implementation of any suggestions in this column. Test all products on an inconspicuous area first.

Reena Nerbas is a popular motivational presenter for large and small groups; check out her website: reena.ca.