What's cooking: Baby steps with spices

Baby steps with spices Well, here's a clever idea. McCormick & Co., the seasoning people, are introducing Recipe Inspirations, cards of six pre-measured spices that come with the appropriate recipe, which you then can file for future use. Packaging aside, it seems a neat way for beginning cooks to play with some new seasonings, such as allspice, cumin or dill weed. A successful dish may then lead to making those flavors pantry staples. Even experienced cooks might appreciate this sort of instant mise en place for trying a new dish such as Spanish Chicken Skillet or Shrimp and Pasta Primavera. We could see taking a card on camping trips, too. Each assortment sells for about $1.99 in the spice aisle.

New apple for our eyes The Opal apple is the latest variety now available to U.S. consumer, after being discovered 10 years ago in Europe. The bright gold apple is a cross between Golden Delicious and Topaz apples, which gives it a crunchy texture and sweet flavor. FirstFruits Marketing, which partnered with Broetje Orchards, both of Washington state, said the Opal also is less apt to turn brown after slicing. It's available locally only at Byerly's and Lunds stores from now through May, while supplies last.

Burger contest Here's a contest that pays some serious coin: $100,000 for the best burger. The 2010 Sutter Home winery's Build a Better Burger recipe contest and cookoff is calling for creative entries in both beef and alternative categories (although top prize for alt burgers is a mere $15,000). Ten finalists will be flown to Napa Valley to compete in a grill-off on Sept. 25. For contest entry rules, visit www.sutterhome.com. Deadline is July 31.

Chefz in your chez Here's a twist on cooking classes. Stay at home. ChefzTable.com is a national network that connects you with professional and certified chefs in Minnesota who will come to your home. You could get a one-on-one three-hour lesson or host a cooking-class party. There's also a personal chef option if you just want a freezer full of meals. Chefs come with the utensils and groceries (although you pay the bill) and do all of the cleanup. Class prices range from $90 to $360 and there are other options. Currently, eight chefz --their spelling -- are listed in Minnesota. To learn more, visit www.chefztable.com.