HELPFUL HINTS

DEAR HELOISE: Where does wild rice come from these days?

— Todd G., Elmdale, Ind.

DEAR READER: What we call “wild rice” isn’t really rice, but a grain-producing grass. It’s native to North America, mainly Wisconsin and neighboring states. Like rice, wild rice grows in water and has a very similar taste. Wild rice can grow in lakes and ponds but must be harvested by hand because it is too delicate for machinery.

DEAR HELOISE: If you want a moist turkey, try this: Rub the turkey all over with a generous amount of mayonnaise before cooking. Make an aluminum tent over the turkey and bake at 325 degrees for the calculated time. Remove the aluminum about 30 minutes before the turkey is done.

— Renee C., Colorado

DEAR HELOISE: Please reprint the recipe for microwave fudge.

— Melissa H., Roswell, N.M.

DEAR READER: I’d love to, Melissa. You’ll need:

1 pound powdered sugar

½ cup cocoa

¼ teaspoon salt

6 tablespoons butter or margarine

4 tablespoons milk

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Combine all ingredients except the nuts in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave on high until all the ingredients in the mixture are melted and smooth. Remove and stir periodically. When the mixture is smooth, remove from microwave and stir in nuts. Spread into a 9-by-5-inch loaf pan and allow to cool completely before cutting into bite-size pieces.

DEAR READERS: It’s well-known that lemons contain a high dose of vitamin C, but did you also know:

Lemons are good for your liver. Fresh lemon added to a large glass of water in the morning is a great liver detoxifier.

Lemons can help cleanse the intestinal track. Drink a glass of warm water with the juice of one lemon in the morning.

Sprinkle lemon juice on fresh veggies for a delightful, new taste to foods.

Lemons contains anti-cancer compounds.

Do not suck on fresh lemons because it can damage your tooth enamel. After eating foods with lemon juice, rinse your mouth with water to reduce any possibility of tooth damage.

Send a money- or time-saving hint to Heloise, P.O. Box 795001, San Antonio, Texas 78279-5000; fax to (210) 435-6473; or email

Heloise@Heloise.com

Upcoming Events