Over the years, Dave and I have enjoyed using several unique products that can cause confusion for people who have never used them in the kitchen before. Every time we talk about them, inevitably, people have questions. Today we have compiled a list of 4 items that we personally use frequently, explaining what they are and how to use them.

Clear Jel is a refined cornstarch that reacts best for freezing and canning recipes in particular; cornstarch tends to turn cloudy in these situations. Clear Jel is used in the same ratio as cornstarch (1:1) in baking recipes. Just like the traditional cornstarch and health store alternatives: arrowroot and potato powder, etc. – this product should be combined with the sugar (or flour) called for in the recipe before adding it to any other ingredients to reduce clumping.

Sea salt is healthier than common table salt; the fact that it requires less processing means that it also has a lower ecological impact. It is a natural source of iodine, which, along with other nutrients, is essential for a healthy sexual life. A local herbal consultant once told us that sea salt can also be used in place of Epsom salts in your bath water.

Tamari is considered to be less salty than soy sauce and is often sold in health food stores. You can find low-salt versions of both tamari and soy sauce. Tamari sauce, however, has enzymes that aid digestion and promote healthy gut bacteria.

Orange zest, citrus zest, or citrus powder are terms that refer to a similar product; for simplicity, we personally call it ‘citrus zest’. It is used to bring out other flavors and to condition flour. Chop lemon, orange, or lime zest and let dry (or use a dehydrator); turn it into a powder with a blender or grinder and store it in the cupboard like you would any spice or herb. 1 tablespoon of fresh zest is equal to 1 tsp. drying; while 1 tablespoon of fresh zest equals 6 tablespoons. juice. As such, this one cupboard ingredient offers more ways to cut grocery costs.

Making your own citrus zest at home is a great way to move towards more frugal cooking, while reusing the “waste” (the peels). Reducing salt, chemicals, and preservatives from your diet will certainly improve your health as well. Hopefully knowing more about these items will give you the confidence to use them in your kitchen.