Joe Morales
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chef + writer + traveler | eating and drinking his way through life.
Articles by Joe Morales
I Stopped Using My Black Plastic Utensils in Favor of Non-Toxic Kitchen Tools — Here’s What I Recommend
If you’ve read the news about the dangers of black plastic, you might be rethinking your kitchen utensil choices. Plastic tools may seem inexpensive and convenient, but there’s concern that harmful chemicals are leaching into our food. “Plastic as a material is harmful throughout its lifecycle—from production and use to disposal,” says Megan Liu, science and policy manager at Toxic-Free Future and co-author of From E-waste to Living Space.
I Use the Same Cutting Board Brand as Ina Garten and Bobby Flay — and It’s Finally On Sale
Loved by Food & Wine editors and celebs like Ina Garten and Bobby Flay, John Boos butcher blocks are on rare sale. Ditch your plastic cutting boards for these square, round, or rectangular wood options. You can even grab a Prime Day deal on the best wooden cutting board we've tested. Amazon Prime Day deals just dropped on John Boos cutting boards — the beloved wooden cutting board brand loved by Ina Garten, Bobby Flay, Giada de Laurentiis, Rachael Ray, and me, a former chef of 10 years.
Your Cookware May Contain Cancer-Causing Flame Retardants — Use These Non-Toxic Kitchen Essentials Instead
After learning that black plastic and food containers may contain cancer-causing flame retardants, I got to thinking. What about Teflon? Since we know about Teflon flu from the PTFEs in cookware coatings, we reconnected with Megan Liu, science and policy manager at Toxic-Free Future and co-author of From E-waste to Living Space. Regarding Teflon, “They still use PTFE, which is one of many types of PFAS,” she said. Liu continued, “Ceramic cookware is generally free of PFAS.
The Trader Joe’s Freezer Aisle Find That Tastes Straight From a Paris Bakery Original
Step into a French bakery, and you're immediately greeted by the aroma of freshly baked bread and pastries. You might even be transported back to memories of a quaint café where you had your first flaky pain au chocolat. Warm, buttery layers of dough wrapped around a rich, dark chocolate filling are undeniably the best way to start the day, but flying to Paris every week just to enjoy its bakeries isn't exactly practical.
Ina Garten and Bobby Flay Recommend These Wooden Cutting Boards, and They’re on Sale for Black Friday Original
Credit: Food & Wine Amazon Black Friday deals just dropped on John Boos cutting boards — the beloved wooden cutting board brand loved by Ina Garten, Bobby Flay, Giada de Laurentiis, Rachael Ray, and myself, a former chef of 10 years. A few months ago, I wrote about the dangers of black plastic utensils due to their potentially harmful chemical composition. Since then, I've started phasing out plastic in my kitchen that might leach chemicals or shed microplastics during everyday cooking.
Ina Garten and Bobby Flay Use This Cutting Board Brand — I Do Too, and It’s (Finally) on Sale | Flipboard
Ina Garten's Elegant, Minimalist Holiday Table Design Is Achievable in Minutes, Offering a Stylish Solution Just Before Your Grand Christmas Feast When it comes to making my home festive over the holidays, there's one person I always turn to for advice: Ina Garten. The ultimate homemaker who can …
Say Goodbye to Teflon With These Healthier Cookware Options Original
Credit: Amazon After learning that black plastic and food containers may contain cancer-causing flame retardants, I got to thinking. What about Teflon? Since we know about Teflon flu from the PTFEs in the cookware’s coating, we reconnected with Megan Liu, science and policy manager at Toxic-Free Future and co-author of From E-waste to Living Space. In regards to Teflon, “They still use PTFE, which is one of many types of PFAS,” she said. Liu continued, “Ceramic cookware is generally free of PFAS.
This Is Why Experts Say You Should Replace Black Plastic Utensils With Non-Toxic Materials
Credit: Food & Wine / Amazon If you’ve read the news about the dangers of black plastic, you might be rethinking your kitchen utensil choices. Plastic tools may seem inexpensive and convenient, but there’s concern that harmful chemicals are leaching into our food. "Plastic as a material is harmful throughout its lifecycle—from production and use to disposal," says Megan Liu, science and policy manager at Toxic-Free Future and co-author of From E-waste to Living Space.
Why Experts Say You Should Replace Black Plastic Utensils With Non-Toxic Materials Original
Credit: Food & Wine / Amazon Editor’s Note: A mathematical error was identified in the From E-waste to Living Space article on December 15, 2024. The corrected data indicate that the levels are not as high as initially reported, and the risk of exposure is lower than previously stated. Despite the reduced risks, we continue to recommend environmentally friendly kitchen utensils. If you’ve read the news about the dangers of black plastic, then you might be rethinking your kitchen utensil choices.
I Tested This All-Glass Pour-Over Coffee Maker — No Plastic, No Toxins, and No Filters
Credit: Food & Wine / Getty Images If your mornings are anything like mine, then coffee is a big part of your routine, and what you brew it in matters as much as the type of coffee beans you use. There are so many types of coffee machines on the market, ranging from the classic French press to drip coffee makers to pour-over brewers. Where do you start?
Ina Garten and Bobby Flay Recommend These Wooden Cutting Boards, and They’re on Rare Prime Day Sale Original
Credit: Food & Wine Rare Amazon Prime Day deals just dropped on John Boos cutting boards — the beloved wooden cutting board brand loved by Ina Garten, Bobby Flay, Giada de Laurentiis, Rachael Ray, and myself, a former chef of 10 years. A few months ago, I wrote about the dangers of black plastic utensils due to their potentially harmful chemical composition. Since then, I've started phasing out plastic in my kitchen that might leach chemicals or shed microplastics during everyday cooking.
This Stunning Cape Took 622 Hours to Sew — and Now It Lives in Oz
Years ago, we took a road trip through Kansas and made an unexpected stop in Wamego. What we thought would be a quick visit turned into an entire afternoon of magic. We wandered through the Oz Museum — surprisingly rich and heartfelt — and even stepped inside the nearby historic Columbian Theater, which holds the original painted panels salvaged from a Chicago building dating back to the 1893 World's Fair.
This Michelin-Star Chef Made Cookware for Home Cooks — Does It Live Up to the Hype?
Photo: Food & Wine Chef Daniel Boulud knows that great cooking starts with great cookware. “I designed this cookware to have a connection to the pots and pans I used as a young chef in France,” he says of his recently launched line. That passion is evident in every piece of the Daniel Boulud x Sardel collection; I was sent the 10-piece set to test out, and from the moment I started cooking, I could tell this wasn’t just another stainless steel set.
Want the Perfect Brew? My Coffee-Snob Son-in-Law Spent 4 Years Finding the Right Coffee Gear
Photo: Food & Wine / Getty Our recent article about coffee's health benefits got me thinking about what it takes to brew the perfect cup. Coffee prices may be at record highs, but that hasn’t slowed down our love for it. If anything, there’s no better time to invest in a quality coffee maker. After all, making coffee at home is always more cost-effective than a daily visit to the coffee shop. A lot of people take coffee seriously. Take my son-in-law, for example.
Say Goodbye to Teflon With These Healthier Cookware Options
Photo: Amazon After learning that black plastic and food containers may contain cancer-causing flame retardants, I got to thinking. What about Teflon? Since we know about Teflon flu from the PTFEs in the cookware’s coating, we reconnected with Megan Liu, science and policy manager at Toxic-Free Future and co-author of From E-waste to Living Space. In regards to Teflon, “They still use PTFE, which is one of many types of PFAS,” she said. Liu continued, “Ceramic cookware is generally free of PFAS.
Say Goodbye to Harmful Plastics With These Kitchen Utensils, From $8 Original
Photo: Food & Wine / Amazon If you’ve read the recent news about the dangers of black plastic, then you might be rethinking your kitchen utensil choices. Plastic tools may seem inexpensive and convenient, but there’s concern that harmful chemicals are leaching into our food. "Plastic as a material is harmful throughout its lifecycle, from production, use, to disposal," says Megan Liu, science and policy manager at Toxic-Free Future and co-author of From E-waste to Living Space.
I'm a Chef, and This Smart Paper Towel Holder Makes My Kitchen Cleanup a Breeze
Photo: Joe Morales As someone always on the lookout for the latest kitchen gadgets, I couldn’t help but be intrigued by the Innovia Automatic Paper Towel Holder while scrolling through TikTok. After watching the demonstration video more times than I’d like to admit, I knew I had to have it. What sets this paper towel holder apart is its hands-free design, which has become indispensable in my kitchen. In a small space like mine, counter space is precious.
Whether you grow it at home or buy it fresh from the store, drying basil isn't a difficult task
rawf8 / Shutterstock One of the best herb plants to grow indoors is basil. However, basil is a delicate plant and can spoil very quickly once harvested. If you grow an herb or vegetable garden or buy the basil plant at your local grocery store, you will have an overabundance of fresh basil that you need to use or store properly. That’s where we come in! We’ll tell you how to dry basil that is fresh from the garden or store and the best way to store it.
I’m a Chef, and These Are the 5 Paella Pans I Recommend
Dotdash Meredith and Yahoo Inc. may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below. Cook up one-pot meals your family will enjoy. Nothing stands out in a sea of cookware quite like the specifically designed paella pan. If you’re familiar with the traditional rice-based Spanish dish paella, chances are you’ve used (or at least heard of) the paella pan. This wide, shallow pan was initially made for open-fire cooking in Spain—Valencia, to be exact.
Visiting Mexico with José Cuervo Reserva de la Familia
Disclaimer: My trip was provided courtesy of a press trip but all opinions about the trip and events are my own. Please note there are affiliate links and at no additional cost to you, I may earn a commission if you make a purchase. I had the opportunity to visit Mexico for an event José Cuervo was putting on, the unveiling of their premium tequila brand, Reserva de la Familia.
The Souper Cube Silicone Freezer Tray Is the Perfect Solution for Leftovers
We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Photo: Food & Wine / Amazon Having hosted my fair share of parties, from small get-togethers to larger dinners with friends and family, I've often faced the challenge of dealing with leftover food. Finding the best food storage solutions has become a familiar routine as I sift through cupboards trying to find my storage containers.
We Tested 19 Meat Thermometers-See Which Ones Sizzled, and Which Ones Fizzled!
There are certain tools that, once you begin using them, you wonder how you managed without them. A meat thermometer is a perfect example: It helps you cook with precision and enhances flavors that can only be achieved through proper cooking temperatures. But, more importantly: "Thermometers are a critical tool in terms of food safety," says Patrick Guzzle, VP of Food Science and Industry at ServSafe.
Disney Fans Will Absolutely Love These New Aprons from Hedley & Bennett
Sounds like a magical holiday gift, if you ask us. Published on November 1, 2023 We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Photo: Disney | Hedley & Bennett Hedley & Bennett, the brand behind some of our favorite aprons, have collaborated on different themed aprons over the years with the likes of the Grateful Dead and its Star Wars collection. Disney fans will be delighted by their latest collaboration.
Nearly 60,000 Shoppers Say This Meat Thermometer Is 'Lightning Fast,' and It's 50% Off Right Now Original
Get accurate internal temperatures in three seconds. Published on October 11, 2023 We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Photo: Food & Wine / Amazon Having an instant-read digital thermometer around the kitchen is handy no matter your cooking levels and can be used for grilling, roasting, baking bread, and so much more.
The Best Boss Gifts of 2022
We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products-learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Finding a gift for your boss is always a delicate task to tackle: "You have to look at your relationship with them and determine what constitutes as professional versus too personal within the perimeters of that relationship," says Lizzie Post, etiquette expert and co-president of the Emily Post Institute.
7 Foolproof Nugget Ice Makers for Crunchy Cubes Within Minutes
The Best Nugget Ice Makers for Any Cold DrinkCourtesy of Retailer "Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." YOU CAN tell a lot about someone based on what type of ice they prefer. There's the classic ice cube, the elongated ice cube, the fancy crescent shape; and then there's nugget ice, the hands-down best ice you can have in your drink.
Rev up your engines for WhistlePig PiggyBack Legends Series
SHOREHAM, VT (September 13, 2023) — WhistlePig Whiskey, the leaders in independent craft whiskey, and Alfa Romeo F1 Team Stake are waving the checkered flag on a legend-worthy release that’s taking whiskey to G-Force levels. The Limited Edition PiggyBack Legends Series: Alfa Romeo F1 Team Stake Barrel is a high Rye Whiskey selected by the Alfa Romeo F1 Team Stake drivers, with barrels trialed in their wind tunnel to ensure a thrilling taste in every sip.
The Bear’ Inspired Me to Buy This Meat Slicer to Make Italian Beef-and It's 20% Off Right Now
The meat slicer, not the sandwich. Watching The Bear really hits home for those of us that ever worked in a professional kitchen. I know it did for me since I worked in one for eight years. I couldn’t stop thinking about the kitchen tools, and one that stood out for me was one that never made an appearance on screen: the meat slicer. Since the show is based on an Italian Beef sandwich shop, this slicer is essential to the restaurant. They must have one.
‘The Bear’ Inspired Me to Buy This Meat Slicer to Make Italian Beef—and It's 20% Off Right Now Original
The meat slicer, not the sandwich. Published on August 16, 2023 We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Photo: Fred Hardy / Food Styling by Melissa Gray / Prop Styling by Shell Royster Watching The Bear really hits home for those of us that ever worked in a professional kitchen. I know it did for me since I worked in one for eight years.
Cleaning Is a Breeze With This $36 Electric Spin Scrubber I Found on TikTok
Work smarter, not harder, and clean like a pro Cleaning is one of the most time-consuming chores because it seems unending. No matter the area of the house, there is always something to scrub. That’s why one day, instead of tackling the cleaning to-dos on my list, I was scrolling through TikTok. And here’s what I learned: It turns out there are a lot of tools out there that actually make cleaning much easier.
Cleaning Is a Breeze With This $36 Electric Spin Scrubber I Found on TikTok Original
Cleaning is one of the most time-consuming chores because it seems unending. No matter the area of the house, there is always something to scrub. That’s why one day, instead of tackling the cleaning to-dos on my list, I was scrolling through TikTok. And here’s what I learned: It turns out there are a lot of tools out there that actually make cleaning much easier. One of those handy, all-purpose cleaning products, which I found on TikTok Shop, is an electric spin scrubber.
The Bear Might Wear Birks, but These Are the Shoes I Swear By After Working 8 Years in a Professional Kitchen
I think Carmy would like them, too. Published on August 1, 2023 We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more.
The Bear Might Wear Birks, but These Are the Shoes I Swear By After Working 8 Years in a Professional Kitchen
Dotdash Meredith and Yahoo Inc. may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below. I think Carmy would like them, too. Chuck Hodes / FX The Bear, FX's hit show about a fine-dining chef who returns home to Chicago to run his family-owned sandwich restaurant after an unexpected death, dropped its newest season last month, and, not surprisingly, I'm still thinking about the food (that omelet, though?) and the fashion.
I Bought the Shark Steam Pocket Mop 365 Days Ago, and It's Still My Favorite Floor Cleaning Tool
Mopping is a breeze now that I don’t lug around a mop and bucket We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more.
I Tested The Perfect Jeans and Here's What I Thought
Disclaimer: This product has been tested and reviewed by our writer and any views or opinions are their own. Please note there are affiliate links and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase. I don’t know what it is with men’s jeans that make it so difficult to find the right pair. It takes time to go through all these denim brands and try styles like straight-legged, boot-cut, and then the disco favorite, flared jeans.
The Best Cannabis Edibles with THC and CBD of 2023
Disclaimer: Please note there are affiliate links and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase. I think we’ve all been there back in the day when we smoked our first joint, and then some, (sorry mom)–hacking, coughing, and choking on the herbaceous weed. Nowadays, there are several products on the market that produces the same effects but without a sore throat like the popular cannabis edibles.
Joe Morales, Senior Commerce Editor for The Spruce
Joe Morales is a Senior Commerce Editor for The Spruce. Prior to joining the team, he covered men’s lifestyle content, LGBTQ+ lifestyle content, travel, and food and drink topics for several publications which include OUTvoices, Saveur, Men’s Health, Good Housekeeping, and The Manual. Highlights: Joe has a degree in the Culinary Arts and worked with James Beard nominated chefs, and was the Sous Chef for a Bib Gourmand restaurant in Chicago.
The Best Margarita Recipes to Make This Year
A lot of us have really picked up an interest in tequila and it's no wonder. Its popularity is soaring in the U.S. and doesn't look like it'll be slowing down any time soon. The only contender would probably be whiskey. Meh, but they have their own day. Now, it's National Margarita Day and we put together some of the best margarita recipes around so you can pick one or maybe even all of them to try. We have a few surprises in there too.
Visiting Mexico with José Cuervo Reserva de la Familia
Disclaimer: My trip was provided courtesy of a press trip but all opinions about the trip and events are my own. Please note there are affiliate links and at no additional cost to you, I may earn a commission if you make a purchase. I had the opportunity to visit Mexico for an event José Cuervo was putting on, the unveiling of their premium tequila brand, Reserva de la Familia.
3 Places to Eat and Drink in Atlanta Georgia
Disclaimer: My trip was provided courtesy of a press trip but all opinions about the trip and events are my own. Please note there are affiliate links and at no additional cost to you, I may earn a commission if you make a purchase. Whiskey has been hitting the shelves left and right lately taking up aisles and aisles. All good things if you ask me. I took a quick trip out to Atlanta for a review of Slane Irish Whiskey. I know what you’re thinking. Atlanta and Irish Whiskey?
Review of the B37 Massage Gun by Erkin Athletics
Disclaimer: This product has been tested and reviewed by our writer and any views or opinions are their own. Please note there are affiliate links and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you make a purchase. A massage gun is a great way to relieve tension in specific muscles. We can do it from the comfort of our own couches while watching TV.
Red Bull is Taking Over the Block in Nashville
For those with a thirst to celebrate, Red Bull Unlocked is the key. In city after city, the most exciting bars, clubs, mixologists, performing artists, and more take over a local landmark building to showcase their signature ambiance while also collaborating for a must-see mashup. And now it's Music City’s turn to seize the spotlight, as the event brings 10 bars together in East Nashville’s Five Points neighborhood.
Cancún Travel Guide: Where to Stay, Eat, and Drink
Where to Eat Where to eat in Cancún Sacbé Beach Shack Lote 41 Marriott, Blvd. Kukulcan, Zona Hotelera, Cancún, Q.R., Mexico 77500 Local Phone: +52 8812000 Sacbé is located just a short walk from the JW Marriot to the neighboring property, Marriott Cancún Resort, and offers a bohemian atmosphere with a beach view. Enjoy Mayan-inspired cuisine and cocktails while listening to a live DJ or the waves crashing onto the shore. Kick off your shoes and dig your toes into the sand on this beach property.
Pure for Men on Their Sexual Health Product Line
When it comes to men’s sexual health, it can be a little difficult to discuss. Okay, fine, it’s rarely discussed. That’s where the fellas over at Pure for Men come in. If you’re unfamiliar with the brand, they offer various products from fiber supplements to bidets to skincare products…and more. If you’re on TikTok or Instagram, you may have noticed their ads focused on men’s wellness and personal care.
The best-selling air fryer on Amazon is on sale ahead of their second Prime Day
The best air fryer deals for Amazon's Prime Early Access Sale Browse major brands like Ninja, Chefman and Instant Pot. Updated: 8:11 PM EDT Oct 6, 2022 Surprise! Amazon Prime Day is coming back (sort of). On October 11 and October 12, a new Amazon Prime members-only sale event will be taking over the site. Dubbed the Amazon Prime Early Access Sale, this event is Amazon's move to kick off the holiday shopping season earlier than ever.
The Best Cookware Sets for Every Type Of Cook
Cookware sets are not a one-size-fits-all purchase. Some pots and pans perform better on gas stoves, while others, like ceramic pieces, are best for electric or glass top stoves. Purchasing a set of pots and pans is not just a smart economic decision—, you also only have to learn how to handle one style of cookware that will help you master your cooking process and techniques.
The Best Blender-Food Processor Combos Save On Space And Do It All
There’s no denying that the best blenders and food processors can make food prep a breeze, but having separate kitchen appliances can take up space. That’s where combos come in. Imagine blending a sauce in your blender, then adding the food processor attachment and chopping up vegetables.
Red Bull is Taking Over the Block in Nashville
For those with a thirst to celebrate, Red Bull Unlocked is the key. In city after city, the most exciting bars, clubs, mixologists, performing artists, and more take over a local landmark building to showcase their signature ambiance while also collaborating for a must-see mashup. And now it's Music City’s turn to seize the spotlight, as the event brings 10 bars together in East Nashville’s Five Points neighborhood.
Hinge Offers Queer Daters an In-App Guide to Dating
Hinge In-App NFAQ section “For LGBTQIA+ people, our experiences are so unique that the typical answers to dating questions don't meet our needs. NFAQ is a transformative resource that will support queer daters with creating and maintaining authentic relationships,” says Hinge’s Love and Connection Expert Moe Ari Brown, LMFT.
This is Why Key West is an LGBTQ+ Vacation Favorite
Key West has been one of the world’s leading LGBTQ vacation spots for decades. It’s a place of offbeat, picturesque charm, elegant Victorian architecture, a balmy year-round climate, and an open, genuinely welcoming atmosphere. The subtropical island, located 125 miles southwest of mainland Florida at the southernmost tip of the Florida Keys, has welcomed diverse groups of people since the early 1800s.
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