Thursday, November 15, 2018

How to of the Day

How to of the Day


How to Make Buttermilk Fried Chicken

Posted: 15 Nov 2018 04:00 PM PST

If you're looking for the secret to tender fried chicken, marinate the chicken in spiced buttermilk before you fry it. Lightly season buttermilk and soak the chicken pieces in the marinade for several hours. Then toss the pieces in a spice mixture and let the chicken rest to absorb even more flavor. Heat oil and fry the chicken until it's crispy and golden brown. Eat buttermilk fried chicken while it's hot or enjoy cold leftovers the next day.

EditIngredients

  • of buttermilk
  • 2 tablespoons (36 g) plus 1 teaspoon (6 g) of kosher salt, divided
  • 1 tablespoon (7 g) plus 1 teaspoon (2 g) of freshly ground black pepper, divided
  • 2 teaspoons (3.5 g) plus 1/2 teaspoon (1 g) of cayenne pepper, divided
  • of chicken wings, thighs, drumsticks, and breasts
  • 2 cups (240 g) of all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon (2 g) of onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon (2 g) of garlic powder
  • Oil such as canola, vegetable, or peanut oil, for frying

Makes of fried chicken

EditSteps

EditMarinating

  1. Mix the buttermilk with kosher salt, pepper, and cayenne. Pour of buttermilk into a large bowl or baking dish. Add 2 tablespoons (36 g) of the kosher salt, 1 tablespoon (7 g) of the freshly ground black pepper, and 2 teaspoons (3.5 g) of cayenne. Stir until the seasonings are incorporated with the buttermilk.[1]

    • It's important to use real buttermilk instead of soured milk for this recipe. True buttermilk is thicker and will help tenderize the chicken as it marinates.
  2. Add of chicken to the marinade. Get out of chicken pieces and add them to the bowl with the marinade. Stir so all of the chicken is completely coated with the buttermilk marinade.[2]

    • You can use wings, thighs, drumsticks, and breasts. If you want to use breasts, cut each of them in half to make 2 smaller pieces. This will ensure that they fry faster and more evenly.
  3. Marinate the chicken for 2 to 4 hours. Cover the chicken and leave it to marinate at room temperature. You can safely keep the chicken out for up to 2 hours. If you want it to marinate longer, put the chicken in the refrigerator for 4 hours.[3]

    • Avoid marinating the chicken for more than 4 hours since the buttermilk and salt will begin to break down the meat.

EditDredging

  1. Combine the flour, salt, pepper, cayenne, onion, and garlic powder. Put 2 cups (240 g) of all-purpose flour into a large sealable plastic bag. Add 1 teaspoon (2 g) of onion powder, 1 teaspoon (2 g) of garlic powder, the remaining 1 teaspoon (6 g) of kosher salt, the remaining 1 teaspoon (2 g) of freshly ground black pepper, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon (1 g) of cayenne pepper. Seal and shake the bag.[4]

    • If you prefer, mix the flour and seasoning in a large shallow dish instead of a bag.
  2. Set a rack on a sheet and remove the chicken from the marinade. Place a wire rack on a baking sheet and set it next to your work surface. Then uncover the chicken and lift each piece out of the buttermilk marinade.[5]

    • Hold each piece up for a few seconds so the excess marinade drips back into the bowl.
  3. Place the chicken into the bag with the seasonings and shake it. Put all of the chicken pieces into the bag or work in batches if all of them won't fit. Seal the bag shut and shake it until the chicken is completely coated with the dry seasoning.[6]

  4. Rest the chicken on the rack for 30 minutes. Open the bag and remove each piece of chicken. Shake it a little so extra seasoning falls off and then set the chicken pieces on the wire rack. Let the chicken sit at room temperature for 30 minutes.[7]

    • You can begin to heat the oil while the chicken is resting.
    • If you want to dredge the chicken in advance, store it uncovered in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours.

EditFrying

  1. Pour oil halfway up the side of a deep pot and attach a thermometer. Set a large pot on the stove and pour in enough oil to come halfway up the sides of the pot. Stick a deep-fry thermometer onto the side so the tip is in the oil.[8]

    • The amount of oil you need will depend on the size of your pot. You'll need enough oil in the pot so it will completely cover the chicken pieces.
    • Consider using canola, vegetable, or peanut oil. Avoid using olive or grapeseed oil since these will burn.
  2. Heat the oil over medium-high until it reaches . Turn the burner on to medium-high and heat the uncovered oil. Watch the temperature and be prepared to start frying the chicken once the temperature of the oil reaches .[9]

  3. Put half of the chicken into the oil and fry it for 10 to 14 minutes. Carefully lower half of the seasoned chicken pieces to the hot oil. Use long tongs to turn the chicken frequently as it fries. Fry the chicken until it reaches with an instant-read meat thermometer.[10]

    • You'll also need to keep an eye on the temperature of the oil. It should stay around .
  4. Put the fried chicken on a wire rack and bring the oil back to . Set clean wire racks on another baking sheet. Use long tongs to remove the fried chicken from the oil and place the pieces on a rack. Look at the temperature of the oil and let it heat back up to before you fry the rest of the chicken.[11]

    • If you try to fry the remaining chicken while the oil isn't hot enough, the chicken will absorb more of the oil. It will take longer to cook and won't be as crispy.
  5. Fry the remaining chicken and let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. Fry the other half of the chicken and put it on the wire rack. Let the chicken pieces rest for 10 minutes so they reabsorb their juices. Then sprinkle a little salt over them and serve them with your favorite sides.[12]

    • You can fry the chicken up to 2 hours in advance. Keep the fried chicken at room temperature for up to 2 hours. If you want to store the fried chicken for longer, put it in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 3 to 4 days.

EditTips

  • If you want to make tenders, use boneless chicken breasts and cut them into smaller pieces. Keep in mind that they won't take as long to fry as bone-in chicken pieces.
  • To heat cold fried chicken, heat it in a until it's hot throughout.

EditThings You'll Need

  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Deep-fry thermometer
  • Large bowl or baking dish
  • Sealable plastic bag
  • Wire racks
  • Baking sheets
  • Large pot
  • Long tongs
  • Instant-read meat thermometer
  • Knife and cutting board, optional

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations


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How to Collect Rainwater

Posted: 15 Nov 2018 08:00 AM PST

Collecting rainwater for home and landscaping use is a great way to save money and conserve water. Depending on the amount of rainfall your area receives, you may be able to collect enough for all of your water needs! Choose the right collection method for your lifestyle, such as a barrel for rooftop collection or a tarp to utilize a change in elevation. Then, carefully set up your system to harvest the rainwater as easily and efficiently as possible.

EditSteps

EditMaking a Barrel to Collect Roof Water

  1. Make sure rain barrels are legal in your area before you start. Rain barrels, and rain collection in general, are illegal in some areas due to water rights restrictions. Before you start constructing your collection system, look online or contact your local government to see whether it's legal in your area.[1]
    Collect Rainwater Step 1.jpg
  2. Drill a hole near the bottom of a large plastic garbage can. Use a hand drill to carefully drill a hole on the side of your garbage can, about from the bottom. This hole will be used for your spigot, so make sure to use a drill bit that's a little bit smaller than or the same size as the spigot.[2]
    Collect Rainwater Step 2.jpg
    • You'll use this spigot hole to extract water from the barrel, so make sure it's not so low that you can't slide a bucket or watering can under it.
    • If you don't want to make a water barrel, you can also purchase one online or from a home improvement store.
  3. Attach a spigot over the hole with waterproof sealant. Slide a metal washer onto the screw end of the spigot, then fit a snug rubber washer on over the screws to prevent leakage. Apply a thick layer of waterproof sealant over the rubber washer, insert the spigot into the hole, and let it dry for as long as instructed on the package.[3]
    Collect Rainwater Step 3.jpg
    • Once the sealant is dried, secure it on the inside of the barrel by sliding on another rubber washer and metal washer.
    • If you don't have waterproof sealant, you can also use watertight Teflon tape.
  4. Cut a hole in the lid to collect water from your home's downspout. Use a box cutter to cut the collection hole, and make it big enough to accommodate the water flow from your downspout. Place it near the side of the lid, following the curve, so it can fit comfortably against the wall of your house.[4]
    Collect Rainwater Step 4.jpg
    • Place the barrel under your downspout and make a mark on the lid for the hole location.
    • Don't place it too close to the center of the lid; if your downspout is against the side of your house, there won't be enough room for you to place the hole directly under it.
  5. Make a second hole to release overflow. If the barrel collects a lot of rain, it'll need an overflow opening to release the extra water. Using your drill or box cutter, cut 1-2 smaller holes in the lid to accommodate this extra flow.[5]
    Collect Rainwater Step 5.jpg
    • If you want to collect the overflow water, build a second rain barrel. Run a short length of hose or PVC pipe from the second barrel to the overflow hole in the first barrel to allow the extra water to run through.
  6. Put landscaping fabric over the top to keep out pests. Before you secure the garbage can lid, cut a large piece of landscaping fabric and place it over the entire opening. Cut it large enough that about of fabric sticks out over the can. Then, attach the lid to secure it in place.[6]
    Collect Rainwater Step 6.jpg
    • Landscaping fabric is made of a fine mesh, which will allow water to pass through while keeping out mosquitoes and other pests.
    • You can buy it online or at home improvement stores.
  7. Place the barrel under your downspout to collect rainwater for a home or garden. Now that your barrel is constructed, simply set it below your downspout to collect water. To make it more convenient to use, create a small platform of bricks or another solid, durable material and set the barrel on top. This will give you more room to fill up water cans or buckets of water.[7]
    Collect Rainwater Step 7.jpg
    • If you want to connect a hose to the spigot, raising the barrel up a bit will also give you more water pressure.
    • If you use your water for gardening, you can pour it out of the spigot as-is. If you plan to use it for cooking, drinking, or cleaning, filter it first.

EditCollecting Rainwater with a Tarp

  1. Choose a collection site that's slightly elevated. Choose a relatively flat area that's elevated slightly above your storage area. You also want the collection area itself to slope just a bit towards the corner closest to the storage area, which ensures that the water won't sit and stagnate as it collects. It should run towards this lower corner, then down the piping towards your storage area.[8]
    Collect Rainwater Step 8.jpg
  2. Clear out a large section of ground on the higher elevation. As you clear the area of any plants and brush, stack extra dirt along the sides. This creates a border of berm edges that will help hold the water. Make sure that the area slopes just slightly towards the corner that's closest to the downward slope.[9]
    Collect Rainwater Step 9.jpg
    • Measure your tarp before you start clearing to make sure your area is large enough. Make it about shorter than the tarp on all sides so you can pull the tarp over the bermed edges.
  3. Lay out a large tarp that covers the whole area. Lay out your tarp so that its edges lay over the bermed edges of your collection area. If you can, try to use a billboard tarp, which is around in size, to collect as much rainwater as you can.[10]
    Collect Rainwater Step 10.jpg
    • You can use a tarp of any size to collect rainwater, but a larger the surface area, the more water you'll harvest.
  4. Place rocks along the tarp to keep it down in the wind. To ensure your tarp stays in place, evenly space large rocks along its surface. You should also shovel several inches of dirt onto the edges to keep them from flapping.[11]
    Collect Rainwater Step 11.jpg
  5. Run a drainpipe from the lowest corner of the tarp to the collection tank. Cut a hole through the lowest corner of the collection tarp, just large enough to fit the opening of your pipe through, then seal it over with waterproof sealant. Run the pipe down the slope to your collection tank. Use corner pipe attachments if you need to lift the water into the tank; the pressure should be high enough to pump it upwards on its own.[12]
    Collect Rainwater Step 12.jpg
    • For the most storage, you can use a large IBC tote tank. You can also use a regular rain barrel or even make your own from a trash can.
    • Use PVC drainpipe, which you can buy at a home improvement store. You can lay it flat on the ground, or dig a slight depression around it to keep it in place.
  6. Collect the water in a tarp-covered hole for a cheaper option. If you don't want to buy a large storage tank, simply dig a deep hole, at least , into the ground and cover with with a tarp. Let the rain water collect there and extract it with a bucket as needed.
    Collect Rainwater Step 13.jpg
    • If you use your water for gardening or other outdoor use, you can leave it as-is. If you plan to use the water for cooking, drinking, or cleaning, filter it first.
    • Constructing this larger-scale tarp collection system will harvest the most water in the most efficient way. In a pinch, though, you can simplify the system by digging a wide hole in the ground and lining it with a tarp to catch rain.

EditTrying Alternative Collection Systems

  1. Build a rainwater garden to redirect water for landscaping. A rainwater garden uses runoff water from roofs and gutters to grow vegetation and flowers while filtering out harmful chemicals. You'll need to clear out an area of your yard to create a depression that's deep and as long and wide as you have room for! Then, use piping to extend your downspout directly into the depression to provide water for the garden.[13]
    Collect Rainwater Step 14.jpg
    • You can then plant native plants, flowers, or vegetables in your garden.
  2. Hang a rain chain from your gutter for a decorative option. A rain chain connects to the water flow in your gutter, redirecting it down a series of copper or metal cups for a pleasing waterfall effect. To use one, simply remove your gutter's downspout and fasten the rain chain's hook through the pipe. Place a rain barrel or another storage unit underneath the chain to collect the water.[14]
    Collect Rainwater Step 15.jpg
  3. Collect rainwater in household items for a cheap, convenient method. When all else fails, you can use everyday items around your house to collect rain. Although this won't work as well for longer periods of time or larger water needs, using household items can work in a pinch or in an emergency.[15]
    Collect Rainwater Step 16.jpg
  4. Consider using a landscaping company to install a collection and filtration system. If you're interested in a full water collection and filtration system for your home, the easiest option might be to get it installed by a landscaping company. They'll be able to ensure that the collection system works without leakages and that it's filtered properly for your use.
    Collect Rainwater Step 17.jpg

EditTips

  • You can use collected rainwater for gardening and landscaping.
  • To use rainwater for cooking, drinking, and home use, purchase and install a filter to run the water through.

EditWarnings

  • Make sure that water collection is legal in your area before starting to harvest it.

EditThings You'll Need

EditRain Barrel Water Collection

  • 1-2 large plastic garbage can
  • Watertight sealant
  • 2 rubber washers
  • 2 metal washers
  • Hose clamp
  • Spigot
  • Drill with large drill bits
  • Landscaping fabric

EditTarp Collection

  • Shovel (to clear dirt)
  • Large tarp (billboard size, if possible)
  • PVC piping
  • Storage unit (a tank or tarp-covered hole)
  • String (to measure elevation change)
  • Stakes (to measure elevation change)

EditRelated wikiHows

EditSources and Citations

EditQuick Summary


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How to Volunteer to Help During Thanksgiving

Posted: 15 Nov 2018 12:00 AM PST

Thanksgiving is a time for family, feasting, being grateful and giving back. Volunteering and donating help to spread the holiday spirit to those who need it most, giving you and your loved ones a rewarding and meaningful Thanksgiving Day.

EditSteps

EditVolunteering In-Person

  1. Ask your local soup kitchen if they need more volunteers. Soup kitchens don't just need people to cook and serve food on Thanksgiving. They'll also need volunteers to collect food, set up the service area, seat people, make deliveries, and clean up afterwards. Many soup kitchens get a lot of volunteers for Thanksgiving, though, so call ahead to see if they need any more help before you show up.[1]
    Start a Nonprofit Homeless Shelter Step 17.jpg
  2. Volunteer at a local aid organization for a few hours. Some aid organizations may be holding Thanksgiving aid events, which could be anything from food and clothing drives to events for veterans or homeless people. Search online for charities in your area, then call or look on their website to see if they're hosting any volunteering events on Thanksgiving.
    Start a Nonprofit Homeless Shelter Step 20.jpg
  3. Visit a nursing home for a few hours. Some nursing home residents may not have any family to visit for Thanksgiving. You can volunteer at a home for the elderly and do anything from decorating the home for Thanksgiving to helping cook and distribute the big meal.[2]
    Become a Stronger Person Through Caregiving Step 21.jpg
    • Call a local home and ask about visiting times, or see whether they need any extra help around the holidays. Plan out activities to do, like listening to music, chatting, or watching a holiday movie.
  4. Give blood or volunteer at a blood drive. Blood banks are always in need of more donations, and giving on Thanksgiving is can give a patient the chance to spend another holiday season with their loved ones. Ask local hospitals where the closest blood center is to you, or look online to see if a blood drive will be hosted in your area on Thanksgiving.[3]
    Donate Blood Step 2 Version 2.jpg
    • If you can't give blood, volunteer to become a donor ambassador for the Red Cross. You'll help run blood drives and make donors comfortable after they've donated.
    • To donate, you'll need to be at least 17 years old and at least . Some diseases and medications might also disqualify you for donation.
  5. Run or walk in a "turkey trot" for a local charity. Turkey trot runs are a popular way to get some exercise and raise money for a good cause on Thanksgiving. To participate in one, simply search online and look for a distance you can do and cause you support.[4]
    Organize a Walk or Run for Charity Step 28.jpg
    • Turkey trots can be anything from a 5k to a full marathon. Choose whatever distance you feel best at and remember that you can always walk.
    • You can also ask about volunteering at the event.
  6. Check in with friends and neighbors to connect with your community. Helping out on Thanksgiving doesn't always mean going to a soup kitchen or volunteering event. Sometimes it can be as simple as reaching out to friends and neighbors to see how they're doing! This is especially important if you know of anyone who'll be alone on Thanksgiving Day. Consider inviting them over to eat and spend time with you and your family.[5]
    Heal Family Wounds Step 19.jpg
  7. Stay involved for the rest of the year. Charities often get a lot of volunteers during the holiday season, but have a lull in other months. Use the holidays as a way to make a longer-term commitment to doing good! After you volunteer, ask the organization what else you can do to help throughout the year.[6]
    Simplify Your Thanksgiving Gathering Step 5.jpg

EditGiving Items In Need

  1. Give to a holiday clothing drive. Homeless shelters and other organizations will often hold winter clothing drives around Thanksgiving and the holiday season. This is a great chance to clear out your closet and donate those unwanted clothes to people who really need them. Search online in your area to see what Thanksgiving clothing drives are going on, or simply donate your things to a local Salvation Army branch.[7]
    Donate Clothing to Charity Step 9.jpg
  2. Send a care package to an overseas military member. Many soldiers and military personnel are stationed overseas during the holidays, away from their loved ones. To thank them for their service and bring some Thanksgiving spirit to them, you can send a letter or a care package through an organization.[8]
    Leave Friends when Moving (Teenagers) Step 13.jpg
    • Look up organizations like Operation Gratitude and Support Our Troops to see how to send a care package. You'll get an address and suggestions on what to send and what not to send.
    • You can also donate money to fund care packages.
  3. Donate non-perishable food items to a local food bank. Schools, workplaces, and churches will often host food drives during the holiday season to help feed in need. You can donate food items at these places, or call the food bank directly to see how you can make a contribution.[9]
    Prepare for a Hurricane Step 1.jpg
  4. Organize a food drive in your area. If there's no food drive going on at your work, school, or church,, start your own! Contact food banks or charities nearby and ask what you need to do to run your own food drive and collect donations for them. Ask local businesses, churches, and schools if you can set up donation sites in their buildings.[10]
    Handle Unsupportive Friends when You Have a Chronic Illness Step 3.jpg
    • Ask family and friends to help you! You'll need plenty of volunteers to help you advertise the drive, donate food, and drop it off at the food bank.


EditDonating Money

  1. Start or donate to a crowdfund campaign. If you're passionate about a particular cause, creating a crowdfunding campaign for it is a great way to encourage family and friends to donate. Share your campaign on social media and email it around to loved ones individually to ask for donations, and ask them to spread it around too. Make sure they know that you're not raising the money for yourself, but for a charity.[11]
    Develop a Relationship With a Customer Step 7 Version 3.jpg
    • Use a crowdfunding platform like Kickstarter or GoFundMe.
    • You can also donate to crowdfunding campaigns already in existence.
  2. Donate to general aid organization to give to people in need all over the world. Aid organizations work year-round to help people in need, from the homeless and hungry to people affected by natural disasters and humanitarian crises. Donating to one of these charities ensures that your money will be put to use in good causes across the world.
    Support the ACLU Step 17.jpg
  3. Donate to victims of a recent disaster. People affected by natural disasters and other crises may have lost money, their homes, or even loved ones, which can make it difficult to celebrate Thanksgiving. Look up funds for a specific disaster and see how you can help or donate.
    Help Earthquake and Tsunami Victims in Indonesia Step 5.jpg
    • For example, you might choose to help people in Indonesia, who were hit with a destructive earthquake and tsunami in September 2018.
  4. Give to a local shelter to help in your community. You don't have to contribute to a large aid organization to make a difference. In fact, sometimes donating on a smaller scale can make an even bigger impact. Call homeless shelters, church organizations, animal shelters, and other non-profits in your area and ask how you can make your donation.[12]
    Help Save the Environment Step 50 Version 2.jpg
  5. Sponsor an impoverished child or family to know exactly who you're helping. You can extend your Thanksgiving kindness and generosity across the country or world by sponsoring a child in need through an aid organization. You'll usually make recurring donations throughout the year to help the child or family get access to healthy food, go to school, and learn necessary skills to have a brighter future.[13]
    Help Your Child Help the Community Step 6.jpg
    • Consider using organization like Save the Children, Compassion International, and Food for the Hungry.

EditTips

  • Call ahead before bringing your children to an event such as helping to serve dinner at a homeless shelter or soup kitchen. Some organizations do not allow minors to serve food due to safety regulations (sharp objects in the kitchen, or danger of being burned at steam tables).

EditSources and Citations


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