Identifying water-injected pork

A simple trick to avoid buying water-injected pork involves a paper towel. When purchasing meat, lightly wipe the surface with a paper towel and then try to light it. If the paper ignites easily and shows traces of oil (fat), it's a sign of unadulterated meat. Conversely, if the paper is damp and difficult to burn, be cautious as the meat has likely been treated.

Using a paper towel to check if pork has been water-injected. Photo: Aboluowang

Using a paper towel to check if pork has been water-injected. Photo: Aboluowang

Preventing rust and maintaining cast iron pans

Cast iron pans can easily rust if not thoroughly dried after washing. To prevent this, apply a small amount of cooking oil to a paper towel and wipe the pan's surface. This not only prevents rust but also creates a natural non-stick layer, making cooking easier.

Additionally, placing a paper towel at the bottom of the pan during storage absorbs moisture and prevents rust.

Distinguishing between new and old rice

Some older rice is treated with preservatives or polished to appear new. A simple test involves wrapping a small handful of rice in a paper towel, squeezing tightly for 20 seconds, and then examining the paper. Oil stains suggest the rice has been treated and should be avoided. If no marks appear, the rice is likely fresh and safe to consume.

Preserving fruits, vegetables, and fresh meat

Wrap leftover washed vegetables in a paper towel or paper napkin to absorb excess water, preventing spoilage and maintaining freshness in the refrigerator.

Similarly, pat down freshly washed meat with a paper towel before freezing. This reduces excess moisture during thawing, promoting better hygiene during preparation.

Lining vegetables, fruits, or meat with paper towels helps preserve them better. Photo: Aboluowang

Lining vegetables, fruits, or meat with paper towels helps preserve them better. Photo: Aboluowang

Deodorizing the refrigerator

Placing a roll of toilet paper in the refrigerator effectively absorbs moisture and odors. Replacing the roll every few days keeps the refrigerator dry and fresh. The used roll can still be repurposed for cleaning.

Deodorizing shoes

For shoes, especially those worn all day, add a few drops of essential oil or perfume to a paper towel and place it inside overnight. This freshens and deodorizes the shoes, preparing them for the next day.

Declumping hardened sugar

For hardened sugar, place it in a glass, cover with a paper towel, seal tightly, and microwave for one minute. A gentle shake afterwards will restore the sugar to its original granular state.

Paper towels are a smart way to declump sugar. Photo: Aboluowang

Paper towels are a smart way to declump sugar. Photo: Aboluowang

Keeping bread soft

Place a paper towel inside the bread bag to maintain moisture and preserve its softness and flavor.

Quickly chilling drinks

Wrap a wet paper towel around a bottle and place it in the freezer. The water in the paper freezes quickly, chilling the drink in a fraction of the time compared to conventional methods.

Keeping white shoes pristine

Wrap freshly washed white shoes in paper towels before sun-drying to prevent yellowing. The paper absorbs water and helps maintain the shoes' original bright white color.

Bao Nhien (From Aboluowang)