Housewives sometimes toss a napkin into their soup bowl - why?
In the realm of household hacks, one tip that's proven particularly useful is using a napkin to remove scum from soup while cooking. This trick, shared by the "Household Hacks" channel, offers a budget-friendly and efficient solution for homemakers.
When proteins, fats, and impurities coagulate during the boiling or simmering of meat, bones, or poultry, they form a layer of scum on the surface of the broth. Removing this layer not only improves the clarity but also enhances the taste of the broth.
To utilize this napkin method, simply gather the napkin into a ball using a spoon or ladle and press it onto the simmering broth. The napkin absorbs or traps the scum as it is dragged across the surface, making it easier to cleanly remove impurities and excess fat for a clearer broth.
For even better results, consider implementing these additional techniques:
- Parboil meat or bones for several minutes, discard the initial water, and rinse the meat/bones to remove initial impurities that cause cloudiness.
- Soak bones in cold water for 1-2 hours before cooking to draw out blood and residues that cloud broth.
- Skim scum regularly during the first hour of simmering to prevent accumulation.
- Use a fine-mesh skimmer or spoon, or the napkin-and-fork trick, to gently remove foam without stirring up the broth.
- Avoid boiling too vigorously; gentle simmering helps scum rise to the surface and keeps broth clearer.
These methods combined help produce a clean, flavorful, and visually clear broth or soup.
In other household news, there's a window hack that can make a room feel fresh without the need for air conditioning or a fan, even when temperatures soar above +35 degrees. More on this refreshing tip in our next article.
Utilizing a napkin to absorb or trap scum during home-cooking can enhance both the taste and clarity of soups and broths, making it a valuable addition to household hacks and home-improvement routines. Additionally, implementing various home-and-garden techniques, such as parboiling and soaking, can further improve the quality and aesthetics of home-cooked dishes, contributing to a desirable lifestyle.
